Session Start: Mon Aug 07 18:38:18 2000 [18:38] *** Now talking in #rpg2 [18:38] *** Kasin1 has joined #rpg2 [18:38] *** kasin sets mode: +o Kasin1 [18:38] *** Disconnected Session Close: Mon Aug 07 18:38:39 2000 Session Start: Mon Aug 07 19:11:49 2000 [19:11] *** Now talking in #rpg2 [19:11] Make us OPS before you go. [19:11] so I'm using sandiego [19:12] I had the same problem earlier - I kept trying and it worked after several goes [19:12] *** Shotan sets mode: +o kasin [19:12] *** Shotan sets mode: +o GM [19:12] I'm suing rotterdam! [19:12] *** Shotan sets mode: +o alamark [19:12] Using, that is.. [19:12] *** Shotan has quit IRC (Neigh!) [19:12] :) [19:12] * kasin hears Sophie laughing [19:12] Hang on... try this again. BRB [19:12] *** GM has left #rpg2 [19:12] *** GM has joined #rpg2 [19:13] Ah. better. [19:13] *** kasin sets mode: +o GM [19:13] I haven't had dinner yet, but pizza is on its way. [19:13] * kasin nods [19:13] On my kasin web page I have updated the history section [19:13] I keep a track of days and such [19:13] guessing as necessary [19:13] Cool. [19:14] also added last several sessions logs, and updated people list [19:14] lastly, did prof calcs (which you have already seen) [19:14] Yep [19:15] apart from that, ready [19:16] Hmm... I just realised I haven't installed Office yet. Ah well... [19:16] NotePad! :) [19:16] ahh yes, we are going to go to the main temple soon [19:16] Wordpad. Its a Word document. [19:16] Yep. [19:17] we were just speaking with Phadi Abdin [19:17] and his friend, Al-Akbar [19:17] Yep. [19:17] Any more questions? [19:18] How long before we get to see Abi-Dalzim? [19:18] ?Roughly? [19:18] last session log up at http://www.ucc.gu.uwa.edu.au/~knight/campaign/kasin/irc11.txt [19:18] Well, he may well be at the main temple when you get asked to go there. [19:19] So it might be tomorrow. Maybe the day after. [19:19] A question for Al-Akbar...what spell did you use on the ship? [19:19] AA: A spell of invisibility. Quite popular with the more powerful seafaring mages. [19:19] * kasin nods [19:20] A spell which turns a ship specifically invisble? [19:20] AA: A ship and its crew, yes. [19:20] * kasin nods [19:20] Do yu mind we asking what level that spell is? [19:20] AA: The bad part is that you need to keep concentration on it. [19:20] oh [19:21] AA: It is 5th level. [19:21] * kasin nods [19:21] You have heard of teleport? [19:21] AA: Teleport? Yes, in ancient texts. [19:22] Have you seen the actual spell? or is it lost? [19:22] Oh no... [19:22] * kasin nods to A [19:22] AA: I haven't actually seen the spell, no. From what I have heard though, such spells once worked. Now they are dangerous though. [19:22] (L) I'm thinking teleportation may not be possible here [19:23] * kasin nods [19:23] There may be a true dweomer over the place preventing transport spells [19:23] (to M) did you try and word of recall home? [19:23] AA: In fact there are many spells of that nature. For example, I have seen a spell that is supposed to be able to Detect magical energies. It doesn't do anything, however. [19:24] M (L): Yes, as a matter of fact. [19:24] * kasin detects magic (with the knife) [19:24] (Nothing) [19:24] * kasin nods [19:24] Yes, it fails [19:24] Ah, crap. [19:24] The spell would work, just not here [19:24] AA: Hmm... [19:24] Hmmm, no tongues, no teleports, no detect magic. I wonder what else? [19:25] M: None of my divinations work, for a start. [19:26] Renik's did [19:26] M: Really? [19:26] Presumbly because of the artifact [19:26] No divinations....this will be painful [19:26] We may not be able to get out unless we can deal with what I assume is a TD [19:26] * kasin turns to Al-Akbar [19:27] * kasin changes her mind [19:27] Perhaps we should try and work on fiding out more [19:28] (to Al-akbar) when did this happen? [19:28] AA: A long time ago, many centuries at least. [19:28] * kasin nods [19:28] Any idea why, or who? [19:29] AA: There is a rumour that something is eating magic. I don't believe that, of course, but the rumour persists. [19:29] * kasin nods [19:29] Possible I suppose [19:30] (shut your door please sophie?) [19:30] (ta) [19:30] Jade, can you sense anything? [19:30] * GM munches on his pizza. [19:30] (feels like pizza, even though I had it last night and the night before) [19:31] Jade: Not really, no. [19:31] no as in nothing unusual? [19:31] J: Shall I look? [19:31] yes please [19:32] J: I have to concentrate to look for magic. If I concentrate, I can see your items and stuff glowing. I'll check if I can see an overall spell. [19:32] * kasin nods [19:33] J: (frowns) Hmm... I can't find anything, but I'm getting very tired. It almost hurts. [19:33] ok, stop then [19:33] Ok, so it's presumably powerful magic doing this [19:33] J: I have. [19:34] On the order of the weaves by the looks [19:34] M: Presumably. [19:34] * alamark is away since 7:34:44 PM - automagically set away after 10 min idling. Msglog [ON] [19:34] although it's difficult to tell, since we are inside it, so it's more difficult to do anything from the inside [19:34] * alamark is back [19:34] Of course this is complete conjecture at the moment [19:35] We can hopefully obtain information about it further yet [19:35] * kasin nods to Renik [19:35] Personally I vote for leaving right now, but that would defeat the purpose of why we came here... [19:35] we may not be able to leave [19:35] Renik: How dangerous is teleportation? [19:35] although we can't afford to stay for too long, we have countries to run [19:35] AA: Well, people who experiment with it invariably disappear. [19:36] ahah! [19:36] Well, I could say that is the point [19:36] * kasin smiles [19:36] either they make a mistake, or something makes them go, or somebody puts a stop to them [19:37] AA: It would have to be a very powerful someone. [19:37] in summary, we have a land where it is difficult to people to rapidly move around, and difficult for them to communicate due to the lack of tongues spells [19:37] * kasin nods to AA [19:37] Yes, it would [19:37] quite possibly however we are after then [19:38] TD time I guess [19:38] I'd like to try and gatehr more information yet, before we do that [19:38] just to be sure [19:38] We can start thinking about components tho [19:38] AA: What are these True Dwoemers? [19:39] spells greater than 9th level [19:39] AA: But who could cast spells of such power? [19:40] Ab: The prophet? [19:40] * kasin smiles [19:40] Ab: quite possibly [19:40] Was the prophet here before these effects occured? [19:40] Kasana: (to Alamark)(L) Are you up to TDs? [19:40] AA: We don't know. [19:40] Not yet [19:40] I'll need training [19:41] (feel...the...need...to....train. says alamark) [19:41] * kasin nods to AA [19:41] Kasana: Well, I certainly don't want to try to channel one. [19:41] Besides, experimentin with my first TD in a place like this could be...interesting [19:41] Kasana nods. [19:41] (please mark if it's Let or not please) [19:41] (this isn't presumably) [19:42] (well, Kasana started in Letnorian, so I wasn't sure) [19:42] (*nod*) [19:42] (ie: the conversation about TD...well, was it??) [19:43] (Sophie?) [19:43] Let [19:43] (ok) [19:43] We may not even know the word for dweomer in their language [19:43] (spell) [19:44] (also please mark occ stuff, wither with () or ooc:) [19:44] (to AA) what happens to powerful magesa round here? [19:44] (mages) [19:45] AA: What happens? Well ... we generally become Pharids. [19:45] could you explain that a bit better? [19:45] I'm not clear on the Pharids idea [19:46] hmm [19:46] AA: Pharid is a rank. We look after the people in our domain, and speak for them with the Rajah. [19:46] (Let) maybe like a baron [19:47] so you rule the people in that area, but are responsible to the rajah? [19:47] AA: Yes. [19:47] how big an area [19:47] Ab: (Let) You can speak freely in front of AA. He is to be trusted. [19:47] ah, I thought you meant when powerful mages die, they become a Pharid... [19:48] AA: Normally what was once a country in its own right. [19:48] Are all Pharids mages? [19:48] Ab: I'm not. [19:48] (let) of course. I just wanted to use the word baron. not that it's very appropriate, since a baron wouldn't rule a country sized area [19:49] Ab nods. [19:49] There seems to be a drive to unify here at the moment. why is this? [19:50] Ab: To bring people to the true faith, of course. [19:51] (Actually, he would have said "True Faith" ...definitely with capital.) [19:51] I see [19:52] You should know that the mage we are here to find is the one doing the unifying [19:52] Ab and AA look surprised. [19:52] obviously not by him, her or itself, but through intermediaries [19:52] such as yourselves [19:52] Ab: But it is the Rajah who is in charge. He is no mage. [19:53] AA: (to K) You mean Abi-Dalzam, do you not? [19:53] Ungh [19:54] Maybe. we don't know [19:54] * alamark slides down further into the cushions [19:54] (to Ab) The rajah is _apparently_ in charge [19:54] Ab nods slowly. [19:54] What do you know of Abi-Dalzim personally? As opposed to what the tales tell. [19:54] AA: I would advise you to speak of this to no one unless you are confirmed as prophets. [19:54] as an exmaple, in another country the ruler was a demon who assumed a new form every generation [19:55] Ab: We have met him many times. He is a strange man. [19:55] * kasin listens [19:55] Ab: Abi-Dalzam is no Demon. He has worked selflessly for the Faith for generations. [19:56] Ab: He is not like other men... [19:56] why is this? [19:56] Ab: He takes no wives, cares not for riches or luxuries. He lives only to advise. [19:58] AA: If he wanted, he could rule. He has been offered the rulership many times, but has always refused. [19:59] why do you think that is? [20:00] AA: He says that leaders will always make mistakes, and that a country should not be ruled by one who does not die like normal men. [20:00] wise [20:00] It preveAbdin [20:00] (oops) [20:01] Abdin [20:01] (oops again) [20:01] (Oops, she did it again...) [20:01] This doesn't seem like the actions of one who is unifying the world for nafarious ends [20:01] Ab: Indeed not. [20:02] True, but the Marids... [20:02] although frankly, at least one idea I have heard here is completely wrong [20:02] * kasin looks stern [20:02] Ab: Yes? [20:02] The One True Faith? [20:02] (tm) [20:02] The idea that people of other faiths do not have souls [20:02] Well, it goes without saying when you have a OTF. [20:02] Ab: I see. Perhaps we will discuss the matter some other time. It would require a long time, I think. [20:03] (OTF?) [20:03] (Ah, I see) [20:03] Although, normally it's said that their souls are damned, rather than non-existent [20:03] Monotheistic religions are like that [20:03] yes, it seems to be characteristic doesn't it [20:03] Various nods from party members. [20:04] AA: At any rate, I think that we should get some rest. The debate at the temple is likely to be lively tomorrow. [20:04] Ab nods. [20:05] Very well. We can have this discussion later [20:05] The two of them will leave and servants will show you back to your quarters. [20:06] You can still discuss things if you like, just the two Pharids won't be there. [20:06] (i've nothing to say really) [20:07] (OK, the night passes?) [20:07] (yep) [20:08] (Sophie?) [20:09] Agh [20:09] One Q [20:10] I gather you don't want me to mention the Marids/water business just as yet? [20:10] (Was that really bad lag?) [20:10] (Who is this too?) [20:10] Kasin [20:11] Well, the poarty [20:11] party [20:11] R: Not to anyone other than those two. [20:11] mention it to who? [20:11] yes, we shouldn't kmention _any_ of this to others yet [20:11] Abi-Dlazim, the Rajah etc [20:12] Either we're making a big mistake in regards to AD, or he's one canny bastard. [20:12] M: We should probably tell others as little as possible. The important decision that we have to make is whether we say that we're prophets. [20:12] R nods to A. [20:13] I'm not convinced of who is the bad guy yet, but AD is fitting the bill so far [20:13] except for a few pieces of evidence which say he isn't so bad [20:13] Beorn: Yep. [20:14] Wilder: If he was a raving loon he wouldn't be building, he'd be destroying. [20:14] * kasin nods [20:15] Wilder: In the long run it doesn't matter so much if you're building an empire 'cause you want to run the show or for the people. In historical terms, the outcomes are very similar. [20:15] He may well have an ulterior motive we have no inkling of [20:15] Well, the bad guy is uniting the place, not destroying it [20:15] What's worse, is what if it's an admirable ulterior motive? What of our service? [20:15] historical terms? Well, yes. It's hard to imagine empires lasting more than, say, a few thousand years [20:16] Wilder: Yep. [20:16] Renik: I'm sure that our Gods wouldn't send us on something that would be ethically distasteful to us. [20:17] Yes, but do we know how much influence they have over alternate Primes? [20:17] It could be kind-of like alternate realities for all we know [20:18] *** GM changes topic to 'In the Empire, lacking the dude in black.' [20:18] W: Don't think so, man. But then, who knows how Gods think? [20:18] I agree (to R) [20:19] (to W) Actually, we have a reaosnable idea of what they would and wouldn't do [20:19] Beorn: We'll find out soon, I reckon. About this Abi dude anyway. Kasin can just DE when we meet him. [20:19] assuming it works [20:19] excuse me Kasana... [20:19] * kasin de on kasana [20:19] W (to K) Fari enough. You're the expert. [20:19] (fair) [20:19] * kasin frowns [20:19] Kasana does not detect as evil. [20:20] (tho! thats better...i think) [20:20] nope, not working [20:20] must be a TD. i suspected as much, given that other divs don't work [20:20] K: (grinning) Maybe I've changed my wicked ways? [20:20] * kasin snorts [20:20] K looks at A and shrugs. [20:21] Bugger [20:21] No simple answer then [20:21] no, unfortunately [20:21] Perhaps we should check before we come face to face with the guy [20:22] difficult to do [20:22] I want to be at least a little forearmed [20:22] although again, R was able to tell [20:22] R: Yep. I only get one div per week with the crown. [20:22] Mitsumi, I take it you haven't had a chance to learn much? [20:22] R: Hopefully my crown KA will work on AD as well. [20:22] M: They wouldn't talk to me much, no. [20:23] M: I do know that healing magic works. And simple things like lights and such. [20:23] mind blank seems a little superflous here [20:23] still worthwhile. who or what did it may be immune [20:24] R: We might be able to tell alot about our opponent by learning what they have blocked. Assuming its them, of course. [20:24] * kasin nods [20:25] Well, I'm ready for bed. Anything else which needs to be talked about? [20:25] Beorn: Nope. I think I'll have a snack before bed though. [20:26] Well, is there likely to be anyone as powerful as Abi-Dalzim around here? If AD is not our man, then he would presumably be at odds with them, and we'd have heard of them by now wouldn't we? [20:26] R nods to A. [20:26] R: True. [20:26] possibly non-copporeal, possesion, etc [20:26] Do we know that the guy we're looking for is evil, or simply that he has enslaved water creatures? [20:26] the power behnd the power behind the throne [20:26] M: We need to find out how powerful AB is. [20:26] extemely [20:26] if he is that old, he will be [20:27] OOC: (the power behind)^2 the throne ? [20:27] M: Yes. [20:27] K: He probably has all sorts of yummy spells. [20:27] * kasin smiles [20:28] yes, just think, while he is frying or freezing you, you can say to yourself "I haven't seen that one before!" [20:28] K: Yep. And when we've beaten him we get his spellbooks, don't forget that. [20:28] K grins. [20:29] AB? [20:29] (SHould have been AD) [20:29] however it is [20:29] ( *grin* ) [20:30] this is going to be qute difficult [20:30] mind you, if we spot someone using transporation magic, it's likely they are the person. either that, or desperate [20:30] R: Must be the person. No-one else would have it. [20:32] well, they might. AA said it was dangerous [20:32] M: I tried a dimensional folding out of the boat actually. I didn't go through though, since everything was black on the other side. [20:33] wise [20:33] perhaps we could try it here, after speaking with AA about the dangers [20:33] Well, unless we're going to do something, I guess the night passes or Something Terribly Mysterious happens to us. [20:33] :) [20:33] (sphixes would be appropriate around here to) [20:33] (I'm happy for the night to pass.) [20:34] (Your swords all break in half!) [20:35] Anyway, the night passes. Morning arrives. Breakfast is served. [20:35] Ab and AA won't be at breakfast. They have left apologies - they've already been called to the temple. [20:36] * kasin wears armour (well, not for breakfast) [20:37] Breakfast will pass and you will wait... [20:38] OOC: BRB - off to the bathroom. [20:40] Eventually the head eunuch will turn up, asking that you prepare yourselves to go the the main temple. [20:41] * kasin checks herself over, makes sure there is no dirt etc, then makes sure Viv is loose in his sheath [20:41] (let) what are we doing to do if he is the man? [20:41] W: Bluff? [20:42] Br: (to W) Got anything in mind. [20:42] W: Nah, I'm not good at that sorta stuff. [20:42] (all in Let) [20:43] back [20:44] No bloody idea [20:44] Play it by ear? [20:44] (let) bluff what? [20:44] Disrupt another society? Why break a habit of a lifetime? [20:45] * kasin grins [20:45] W (let) This sounds like a place that is needing a little creative disharmony. [20:46] (let) No. Just a few changes. [20:46] Yesss.... BUT what if someone did the same to us, only with a different idea of creative disharmony/change [20:46] (l) it's not that bad actually [20:46] (l) they do, often. Some with more success thatn othes [20:47] W (L) Then we do unto them first. [20:47] W (L) Besides, we're right. [20:47] W grins. [20:48] * alamark sighs [20:48] (l) ok, so no plan, just the seat of our pants and the skin of our teeth [20:49] M (sourly) Why change now? [20:49] * kasin nods [20:49] (l) if we do fight, we all fight. no half measures [20:49] Be: Sure thing. [20:50] M: Let's try to avoid that, shall we? This guy has had a long time practicing staying alive. [20:50] (l) avoid fighting? [20:51] M (L) Definitely. Fight only if actually attacked. Or they're planning to execute us or something. [20:52] Yes, well when they're calling us prophets or blasphemers left, right and centre, I'll remember that [20:52] (l) avoid fighting initially. check. [20:53] W: Prophet? Blasphemer? The only difference is semantics. [20:53] Well anyway [20:53] Exactement [20:53] * kasin stretches, and starts to pace [20:54] (warns Shotan of whats going on) [20:55] OK, you let yourselves be led off? [20:55] (yep) [20:55] yep [20:55] You are escorted through the streets by a group of temple guards. The people form silent walls on either side. [20:56] The guards are not hostile, but not friendly either. Very polite though, and trying to hide nervousness. [20:56] * kasin smiles at people [20:56] The people seem ... intense. It's hard to describe. They don't cheer today, they are just watching. Hundreds ... thousands of them. [20:56] * alamark prays [20:57] wow [20:58] The temple itself is a huge building ... carefully tended gardens with exotic flowers. White marble veined with rose for walls. A huge gold dome and lesser turquoise ones on the minarets. [20:58] The people crowd up to the outer gate of the temple. Guards there prevent them from going further. Not that they push much. [20:58] * alamark mutters about the blood and the sweat of the people in Letnorian [20:58] Probably scared of us [20:59] As you enter a murmur goes through the crowds ... expectation. You could cut the air with a knife ... [20:59] (K feels a slight temptation to do something silly to break the mood of the crowd. Get them to lighten up) [21:00] The guards lead you down the main pathway to the gates. They appear to be open. They look like they are carved of pieces of ivory of some sort - one per door. And each door is over 20 foot high. [21:01] okaayyy.... [21:01] * kasin looks around curiously [21:02] Inside the temple, robed priests wander about quietly on soft-sandalled feet. The boots of the guards and the clanking of your armor and weapons seems far too loud. No-one is talking. Or smiling. [21:02] * kasin clanks along [21:03] * kasin wishes Shotan was here [21:03] You are taken to a second set of doors, as large as the first. Both of these are golden, one set with rubies and the other with opal. Both in spiral patterns of some complexity. [21:04] (Red and white are the colours of their religion. Red for blood and white for bone. Or red for the sands and white for the light.) [21:04] *nod* [21:04] Powerful guards will swing the doors wide as you approach. [21:04] *** alamark has quit IRC (Read error to alamark[host88.ichr.uwa.edu.au]: EOF from client) [21:05] (Glenn, has the other window popped up?) [21:05] *** alamark has joined #rpg2 [21:05] That was annoying [21:06] Powerful guards will swing the doors wide as you approach. [21:06] OOC: Op me! Not that I do much with it [21:06] * kasin mutters "uh oh. trouble" [21:06] OOC: please [21:06] *** kasin sets mode: +o alamark [21:06] * kasin says quietly "undead near I think [21:07] The room before you is like a vast amphitheatre. The floor is circular, with a raised area in the middle. Rings of seats ascend upwards and outwards, facing down. [21:07] (L): What gives you that idea? [21:07] (L): Elenil? [21:07] * kasin nods [21:07] The room is packed with red-robed priests and white-robed scribes and assistants. [21:07] (L): He could be a good lich? [21:08] * alamark waits [21:08] Currently on the podium is a red-robed priest you recognise from the harbor. (He was in the VIP area as well.) [21:08] (l) maybe. now shush for now [21:09] Priest: Phadi Abdin Muhammad, take charge of your guests. [21:09] * alamark waits [21:09] * alamark quietly grits his teeth [21:09] Abdin rises from the rows of priests (he is fairly high up) and descends towards the floor. The priest takes a seat right by the center. [21:10] Abdin bows formally to you, and speaks the ritual words of greeting. [21:10] (I presume that you reply in the manner you've been taught?) [21:11] Yep [21:11] (yep) [21:11] Bedine: Who has come to my khreima in need of help? [21:11] OOC: that was OOC [21:11] Various party members carefully bow and repeat the appropriate phrases. [21:12] Low murmurs arise from around the room. [21:12] Ab gestures to a row of seats on the side of the central area. [21:13] Ab: Seat yourselves, my guests. We will begin. [21:13] * kasin sits [21:13] Ditto [21:13] Ditto for the rest of the party. [21:14] You notice many priests openly staring at the dragons. Muttering rises again. [21:14] Ab bows to the initial priest and then climbs back up to his seat. The initial priest rises again. [21:14] He climbs onto the podium and turns to face you. [21:15] Priest: Guests of our brother, I would ask you questions. Will one of you speak for you all? [21:16] Various party members look at each other. Most end up looking at Mitsumi, Renik or Kasin. [21:16] * alamark bites his lip [21:17] I will [21:17] The priest nods to you. [21:17] However, I would like to confer as the question demands [21:17] Pr: If such is necessary, then that is what you must do. [21:18] Pr: You come from a foreign land, but not one from this world. Is this correct? [21:19] Yes [21:19] Pr: And you believe that you worship our Lord, but under a different name? [21:19] Perhaps. I don't know. [21:20] The evidance points towards it, but it could be another deity I know. [21:20] Pr: I see. And you have spoken with your deity? [21:20] About this? no [21:20] I have previously [21:20] A murmuring from the crowd. [21:21] Pr: At all? Have you seen His face? [21:21] I think you are implying something more than the obvious, so I'm not sure how to answer that [21:22] Do you mean in a physical sense? [21:22] (L) quietly : Kasin, perhaps relaying that _you_ are the only one who follows Morn/whatshisname... [21:22] Pr: Only a select few may look upon the face of God. So yes, in body. [21:23] Yes, I have. [21:23] More murmurs, louder this time. [21:24] My companions would like me to point out that I am the only humanoid follower of Morn in this group however [21:24] Ungh [21:24] The room erupts in babbles. [21:24] The priest turns and makes settling down motions. [21:25] Many priests don't look happy, but things quieten down. [21:25] Pr: We will get to details of belief later, if you don't mind. [21:25] Pr: For now, we seek to establish if you are truly a prophet. [21:25] * kasin nods [21:25] * kasin nods [21:27] Pr: In our land, a prophet is one who has seen the face of god, and is blessed with the power of miracles. [21:27] Pr: Can you perform miracles? [21:27] (L): Oh, Lyca.... [21:28] Depending on what you define as miracles, yes [21:28] powers granted to me by my deity? Those I have [21:28] Pr: A miracle is something unnatural, but not due to a mage's learning. A gift from God. [21:28] Pr: Could you demonstrate one? [21:29] * kasin casts light (using the local tongue) [21:30] (ie: prays to morn in the local tongue for light) [21:30] Various people will murmur as a light blossoms in the air. [21:30] Pr nods, seeming satisfied. [21:30] Pr turns to the crowd of watchers. [21:30] Pr (loudly) Do you accept this as a miracle, brothers? [21:30] * alamark waits with baited breath [21:31] * kasin watches [21:31] The general response is "We do", although some don't seem enthusiastic. [21:31] (L): Kasin, got anything speccier? [21:31] Pr: I call on our advisor. [21:31] (hang on) [21:32] Pr steps down from the podium, and a white-robed figure rises from the very upper tier and slowly makes his way down the stairs. [21:32] * kasin searches through her brain to see what spells she has memorised [21:32] He in an ancient, withered man, wearing the white of the assistants, but he has a red handprint on his robe, over his heart. [21:33] * kasin finishes her search through her brain [21:33] The man slowly finishes his descent, and with a nod to Pr steps onto the podium. [21:33] He turns to the party. [21:34] AD: I am the vizier, Abi-Dalzam. [21:34] * kasin nods [21:34] AD: I advise the church on matters of magic. [21:34] Pr rises and addresses AD. [21:34] Pr: Was what we just witnessed born of magecraft, vizier? [21:34] AD: No. [21:35] Pr: You are certain? [21:35] AD: Yes. [21:35] Pr nods. [21:35] AD slowly steps down from the podium. There is much muttering now. [21:36] Pr climbs back up onto the podium, and AB takes the seat he has just vacated. [21:36] * kasin watches [21:36] Pr (loudly, addressing the crowd): Do we accept the judgement of the vizier? [21:36] Crowd: We do. [21:37] Pr: (loudly) And is this sufficient? Is their high state proven? [21:38] The priests call out, but varying things. Some start arguing amongst each other. [21:38] AD quietly shakes his head, looking faintly annoyed. [21:38] * kasin sighs [21:38] * kasin looks at AD is slight amusement [21:38] Pr raises his arms and gestures for silence. Eventually things quieten down. [21:39] AD smiles faintly at Kasin. His skin is withered and his eyes sunked. He really doesn't look well. [21:39] * kasin stops smiling [21:39] Pr (loudly) I will call for a speaker from each side. [21:40] Immediately a man rises from amongst the lowest row of priests. He is large and well built. Looks more like a warrior than a priest. [21:41] Large Priest: (in a booming voice) I claim the right to speak the negative. Will any argue? [21:41] * kasin smiles [21:41] * alamark is away since 9:41:48 PM - automagically set away after 10 min idling. Msglog [ON] [21:41] * alamark is back [21:41] LP will glare at various people who look like they are thinking about it, then step down to the podium. [21:41] Pr will nod at LP. [21:42] * kasin watches [21:42] Pr: (loudly) Who will speak the positive? [21:42] Ad will rise. [21:43] Ad: They are my guests, I claim the right. [21:43] Various people nod, and Ab will descend to the podium. [21:43] (Ab, not Ad) [21:43] (alamark gets a glazed expression. Kasin leans over and hits the reset button, while mutterting about his irc client) [21:44] * GM prepares a powerful curse against Alamark's IRC client. [21:44] (don't bother - it already is!) [21:44] (See, it worked! And my curse is so powerful it's retrospective!) [21:44] *** alamark has quit IRC (Read error to alamark[host88.ichr.uwa.edu.au]: Connection reset by peer) [21:44] (sigh) [21:46] *** alamark has joined #rpg2 [21:46] LP had just staked his claim to the against side [21:46] Pr: (loudly) Who will speak the positive? [21:46] Ad will rise. [21:46] Ad: They are my guests, I claim the right. [21:46] Various people nod, and Ab will descend to the podium. [21:46] (Ab, not Ad) [21:46] *** kasin sets mode: +o alamark [21:46] (Welcome back. Obviously you were affected by an evil spell.) [21:47] (continue please...) [21:47] Pr will bow slightly to LP and Ab, and then take LPs seat. [21:48] LP (loudly) These people are foreigners. We know that most of them follow different gods. [21:48] Much murmuring... [21:49] (L) quietly: Kasin, how's Elenil? [21:49] LP (loudly) Accepting these travellers as prophets would mean great change. Surely for such a step, a more definitive demonstration would be called for! [21:49] (l) humming [21:49] LP looks to Ab. [21:50] Ab (loudly) You forget that the travellers have foretold the return of their companion. Prophecy is the definitive attribute of the prophet. [21:50] LP nods (seemingly approvingly) [21:51] LP: (loudly) It is true, that prophecy is definitive. I do accept this... [21:51] The murmuring grows... [21:52] LP (more loudly) However... [21:52] The murmuring quietens a little [21:52] * kasin frowns slightly [21:53] LP (loudly) ...I do not accept that this once occurence is necessarily prophecy. Once could be chance. [21:53] You see many people in the crowd nodding. [21:54] Ab (loudly) It would have to be chance indeed. They would have risked all on a gamble. If they have so deceived me, they cannot be fools. And not being fools, they would not gamble so. [21:54] Again, many people nod. [21:55] LP (loudly) I will not debate their reasons, and it may well be that it was prophecy. But if so, can they do it again? Now? [21:55] * kasin watches [21:55] The crown - as one - looks at the group. [21:55] (crowd I assume) [21:56] (Yep. Doh!) [21:56] (cofused me for a moment!) [21:56] * alamark looks at Renik and Mitsumi [21:56] Ab (loudly and quickly) Not even the Prophet himself could always call the Lord's words to himself when he wanted. [21:56] Ab (loudly) Why should we demand more from these travellers? [21:56] (L): Perhaps the circlet, vague though it can be... [21:56] (l) (quietly) no [21:57] LP (loudly) I will accept that. [21:57] Many people in the crowd are looking annoyed at LP. [21:57] Ab looks at LP, appearing uncertain but trying to hide it. [21:58] May I speak? [21:58] LP start to say something, but stops and turns to the group. [21:58] LP nods to Ab [21:58] Ab: This is a debate, and formally you should not speak without our permission. I will give mine, however. [21:59] LP: And I mine. Say what you wish, traveller. [21:59] I would give an explanation [21:59] The crowd is getting quite annoyed by now. [21:59] In these lands, the power of propehcy is not easy. In our own lands, we could do as you asked. Here, we must wait some time before being able to do such again [22:00] The crowd quietens, listening. [22:00] LP: Very well. Do you wish to add anything else? [22:00] It is possible to do so again immediately, but only in more minor ways which would not be conclusive [22:01] That is all [22:01] LP nods. [22:01] LP: Thank you, traveller. [22:01] LP turns in a circle, scanning the faces in the crowd. [22:02] LP (loudly) I accept that we cannot ask for more prophecy so soon. But there is another definitive attribute of the prophet. [22:02] * kasin raises an eyebrow [22:03] * kasin waits [22:03] LP (loudly, in a recital tone) And the sorcerer did send his magicks against the prophet, blighting the land. But the prophet smiled for God's hand protected him from harm. [22:03] LP (loudly) If these are prophets, then God will protect them. [22:03] * alamark grits his teeth [22:04] Ab steps forwards and LP nods to him. [22:04] Hmmm [22:04] (L): muttered - another trial by combat... [22:04] * kasin moves her hand near Viv [22:04] Ab (loudly) And who would dare to raise sword or spell against one who might be chosen of God? [22:05] Ab (loudly) Is it not written that none shall offend the prophet, for he is the face of God in our world? [22:06] Ahem. [22:06] If I may... [22:06] The room is buzzing by now... [22:06] Ab turns to A. [22:07] Ab (quietly) Your friend speaks for you. Can you speak through her? [22:07] (quietly) That may be better alamark [22:07] LP turns as well. He doesn't look unfriendly, despite what he appears to be trying to do. [22:07] (L): How is it known that any favoured ones will always be men? [22:08] (l) you want me to ask? [22:08] (waiting...) [22:09] (waiting) [22:09] Yes [22:09] (to Ab) If I may... [22:10] Ab looks at LP who nods slowly. [22:10] How is it known that any favoured ones will always be men? My companion wishes to know. [22:10] LP: Do not make this a habit, traveller, but I will let you speak again. [22:11] (L) gives alamark a meaningful look [22:12] LP: I do not undestrand the question. We are discussing whether you are a prophet, and you appear to be a woman. [22:12] (L): mutters blackly: One day someone will come to _our_ domain under similar circumstances, and what goes around... [22:12] I"m not sure of the question either. perhaps it is best raised at another time. [22:13] * kasin looks at alamark meaningfully [22:13] LP nods, looking annoyed. [22:13] * kasin looks annoyed too! [22:13] I apologise [22:13] LP turns back to the crowd, who appear to be growning restive. [22:13] Ab nods to Kasin, then goes back to watching LP. [22:13] * alamark mentally curses the lot of them [22:14] LP (loudly) I accept that attacking the prophet is wrong. But surely if the prophet cannot be harmed, it is not an attack. And if they are not a prophet, then it must be Gods will that they be struck down. [22:15] Ab (loudly) And know you the mind of God. Will the attacker be judged kindly if God intervenes? [22:15] * kasin watches [22:16] LP (loudly) There is one amongst us who has been blessed by _the_ prophet. Surely God would guid his hand in such an attack. [22:16] (L): mutters: re their precious leaders prophets. Well, let's find out shall we... [22:16] are [22:16] LP gestures to AD. [22:16] LP (loudly, to AD) Will you test these people. [22:17] AD rises slowly. [22:17] The crowd goes silent. [22:17] AD: No. [22:17] LP looks stunned. [22:17] AD: The prophet teaches that we should not raise a hand in anger against our brothers. I will not break that commandment. [22:18] Ad slowly sinks back into his seat. [22:18] (that was AD) [22:19] LP (recovering slightly) (to AD) If you will not test them, then it is left to mortals to decide what only God can decide. [22:19] AD remains seated and shakes his head slightly, smiling sadly. [22:19] Ab: (loudly) You talk overly of testing. Where is the faith in endless tests? [22:20] * kasin contineus to watch [22:20] LP (loudly, but looking slightly annoyed) I agree that endless tests would be an insult. But I insist on one further test. [22:21] Ab: You insist? [22:21] LP nods and turns to the crowd. [22:21] LP (loudly) How say you brothers. One test? [22:21] The buzz begins again, and slowly priests start to rise. [22:22] After a few moments about two-thirds of the priests have risen. [22:22] LP nods and turns to Ad who bows his head. [22:22] LP (loudly) It is decided. One further test. [22:24] LP (loudly) I can speak three things, that are the prophet. Guided by God. Protected by God. Pure of heart. We cannot test the first two, so let us test the third. [22:24] The crowd seems puzzled, mostly. A few look shocked. [22:24] * kasin looks interested [22:25] LP (loudly) I suggest that they enter the heart of the dragon. If they are pure, they will not be harmed. [22:25] Ab (steps forwards, looking upset)(loudly) That is forbidden! [22:25] People in the crowd nod. [22:26] Ab (to LP) The Heart is not to be disturbed, such is the Law. [22:26] LP (loudly) Not Law. Custom. We are not pure enough to survive, but surely a prophet would be. [22:26] * alamark is away since 10:26:58 PM - automagically set away after 10 min idling. Msglog [ON] [22:26] * alamark is back [22:26] You notice that AD doesn't seem to like this idea much. he seems hard pressed not to speak. [22:27] (L): whispers: Kasin. Ask them what it is [22:27] (l) wait [22:27] The crowd is getting loud again. [22:28] * kasin looks like she is going to speak, but leans back again [22:28] LP (shouting) What say you brothers? How else can we be sure? Let the prophet best the dragon again. [22:28] Some priests shout things back, but slowly some others begin to rise. [22:29] The room quietens down as priests realise that the matter is being taken seriously. [22:29] Slowly a few more priests rise, but not many. [22:30] One priest steps into the aisle after he has risen. [22:30] Other Priest: I would prefer that the vizier test the travellers than to open the way to the Heart. I call for the suggestion to be changed. [22:31] LP glares at OP. Op doesn't budge. LP finally nods. [22:31] Meanwhile those priests who had stood sit again. [22:32] LP (loudly, seeming unhappy) Very well. If directed by us, will you test them vizier? [22:32] AD stands again, slowly, glaring at OP. [22:32] AD: I will not. You have no right to ask me to break the commandment of the prophet. [22:33] AD seats himself again, amidst angry mutterings. [22:33] * kasin smiles [22:33] Ab steps fowards; [22:33] Ab (loudly) The vizier has the wisdom of ages. Who are we to call him wrong? [22:33] People nod, most reluctantly, by the looks. [22:34] OP: Then I call upon the travellers to choose. For if they choose for the vizier to test them, then it will not be an attack. [22:34] LP blinks, looking surprised. [22:35] This seems to meet the approval of various others, since priests immediately being to rise. [22:35] * kasin looks quite suprised as well [22:35] Soon just under half of the priests are standing. [22:35] Ad: (loudly and angrily) You bandy words. An attack is an attack. [22:36] LP (slowly, but just as loud) Not so. For did not Aran ask the shepherd to beat him for his sin? A requested penance is no attack. [22:36] Ad (loudly) This is no penance. And the choice you give is no choice at all. [22:37] In the background a few priests return to their seats, while a few more rise. [22:37] LP (turning to AD) What say you, vizier. Would you test them if they agree. [22:37] The room quietens as AD painfully rises again. [22:38] * kasin watches [22:38] AD: If they agree, yes. But the agreement must not be forced, or it means nothing. [22:38] AD sinks down again, looking annoyed. [22:38] Ab (loudly) And the choice now is certainly forcing agreement. [22:38] (L): Kasin, tell them we do not understand the significance of the Heart [22:39] LP (loudly) Not so. The travellers have the choice of leaving. The guest privileges will be honoured. [22:39] (L) if they ask us to make a choice, I will be sure to ask [22:39] Ab (quietly to A) It is a bad thing. Evil. I will tell you when I can. [22:40] More priests are rising now, and OP is nodding sternly. [22:40] Ab (looks around unhappilly) If you wish this, brothers. But I claim the right to inform my guests of what you are deciding. [22:40] LP nods. [22:41] OP nods and seats himself, and the other standing priests follow suit. [22:41] Pr rises and moves onto the podium. [22:41] Pr: We will adjourn for an hour. Go with God, brothers. [22:41] Ab (L) Come with me. We must talk. [22:41] * kasin nods to Ab [22:42] [22:43] * alamark sighs [22:43] * kasin follows Ab if he goes somewhere [22:43] (You go with Ab?) [22:43] (I just said yes, and I nodded. yes.) [22:44] Ab will lead you to an antechamber and tells the guards (in Latin) that you are not to be disturbed. AA will join you. [22:44] *** GM changes topic to 'In the Empire, up excretion creek without a propulsion device' [22:45] OOC: LOL [22:45] Ab: I am sorry. I do not know why Abdul would suggest such a thing. [22:45] * kasin shrugs [22:46] Perhaps magically influenced, or perhaps I am just being paranoid [22:46] He kept on mentioing the vizier though, in spite of the viziers displeasure [22:46] as did you [22:47] Ab: In any case, it looks like you are being given a bad choice. I would honestly suggest leaving. [22:47] What is the heart? [22:47] We would perfer to complete our quest [22:47] If we refuse those quests, and do not leave, would we be thrown out? [22:49] * kasin waits [22:50] (anyone hear me?) [22:51] yep [22:51] *** GM has quit IRC (Ping timeout for GM[j52.mri33.jaring.my]) [22:51] OOC: waiting for an answer re: the Heart [22:51] Hmm [22:51] doh! [22:51] * kasin waits [22:54] I got a response from him on a query window, nothing since. He said " I'm back... slowly." [22:55] -> [alamark] PING [22:55] bing [22:55] ack! [22:55] :) [22:56] * kasin waits [22:56] * kasin sighs [22:56] * kasin feels somewhat hyper - too much sugar maybe [22:58] *** GM has joined #rpg2 [22:58] *** kasin sets mode: +o GM [22:58] yay!!! [22:58] hi [22:58] * GM sighs. [22:58] Finally! [22:58] I was about to give up... [22:58] Ab: In any case, it looks like you are being given a bad choice. I would honestly suggest leaving. [22:58] What is the heart? [22:58] We would perfer to complete our quest [22:58] If we refuse those quests, and do not leave, would we be thrown out? [22:58] * kasin waits [22:58] Ab: In any case, it looks like you are being given a bad choice. I would honestly suggest leaving. [22:58] What is the heart? [22:58] We would perfer to complete our quest [22:58] If we refuse those quests, and do not leave, would we be thrown out? [22:58] * kasin waits [22:58] (oops) [22:59] Ab: If you refuse, the others will assume that you are not prophets. In that case they would kill you where you not my guests. [22:59] oh [23:00] This would lead to complications for you? [23:00] Ab: No. Unless I help you after the guest perdio expires. [23:00] (Period) [23:00] which is for how long? [23:01] Ab: Three days after you leave my house. Which would be three days from your decision to not take their tests, I'm afraid. [23:01] oh [23:01] well, as Alamark said, what is the heart? [23:02] Ab: When the prophet came amongst us, Abi-Dalzam fought to defend this land against a dragon of great power. The prophet defeated the dragon, but even he could not kill it. [23:02] Ab: The Heart is the heart of this dragon. It still lives, an evil life of its own. [23:03] Ab: It is warded by the strongest spells that Abi-Dalzam can devise, but it still exists. [23:04] oh [23:04] how _big_ is this heart? [23:04] Ab: It is said that anyone partaking of the heart gains immense wisdom, but is defeated by the evil of the heart. According to legend, the prophet ate a piece. That legen is disputed however. [23:04] Ab: Larger than a man, or so the legends say. [23:05] Where is it kept? [23:05] I've heard a tale that eating a piece of a dragons heart will give you a dragoins strenght. never believed it [23:06] AA: Beneath the temple, in a vault. [23:06] how is the heart evil? What does it do? anything? [23:07] Ab: The heart is believe to contain the life essence of the dragon. And the dragon was evil incarnate. [23:07] Hmmm, I wonder if it was an avatar? [23:08] Although.... [23:08] * kasin looks thoughtful [23:08] Doesn't it bother the priests, to have such a concentrated essence of evil so close to the heart of the faith? [23:08] Ab: The purity of God keeps the evil at bay. That is why the Heart is there, and not elsewhere. [23:09] OK [23:09] Remember about what we know of a prisoner that AD keeps? [23:10] It was mentioned that it is custom, not law, that keeps people away from the heart. Can you explain that a bit more? [23:10] Exactement [23:11] Ab: I do not recall a law of the church that says we must stay away from the Heart. However it is common sense. [23:11] is it possible that Abi-Dalzim goes there? [23:12] perhaps we could investigate, but I'm not sure we could do anything [23:12] Ab: Well, he is resposible for keeping the wardings strong. He definitely goes there, although presumably not in the vault. [23:12] It sounds very evil [23:13] Would we permitted to go near there, though not in the vault itself? [23:13] Ab: It is. [23:13] then I think we should. except, I don't know what we can do [23:13] * kasin sighs [23:13] Ab: I wouldn't think so. Even I am not permitted there. [23:13] Is there anything else in the vault, aside from the heart? [23:13] This is getting a little rediculous [23:14] Well, is there a corridor that leads to the vault? A stairwell? [23:14] Ab: I don't know. [23:14] Ab: Yes. But we are not permitted there. [23:15] ok [23:15] Who is? [23:16] Ab: Only the highest of the priests. And the vizier, of course. [23:17] Is the Rajah a priest? [23:17] what is the attack from the vizier likely to be? [23:17] Ab: (to A) Theoretically, yes. But practically he takes no part in the affairs of the temple. [23:17] Ab: (to K) Magical, I assume. [23:18] of what form. it may matter [23:19] Ab: I wouldn't know. Certainly he has power over sand and storm, but I do not know much else. [23:19] I'd prefer to deal with AD. [23:19] The heart is important, but we don't have the time to deal with it properly. [23:20] Renik nods. [23:20] I'd perfer not to have more than 3 or 4 quests all going at the same time! [23:20] * GM grins as yet another nested quest appears... [23:21] If we could look at it, perhaps we could discover more. What we really need are more divinations! [23:21] Goddammit [23:22] How long do we have if we stay as your guests? [23:22] * kasin frowns at Alamark [23:22] Watch your language pelase [23:22] Ab: I cannot extend the invitation if the priesthood decides against you. You will have three days. [23:23] Really, I'd perfer to deal with AD. He is evil, and he _does_ look rather lich like. Either he is that way normally, or he is possesed. [23:23] Ab: How do you mean "deal with"? [23:24] * kasin shrugs [23:24] I believe the Heart of the dragon is the key to the heart of the matter, if you'll pardon the pun. [23:24] detroy [23:24] I'd say kill, but there is a reasonable chance he is already dead, so.... [23:24] Ab looks shocked. [23:25] We've come to find someone, and no one other than Abi-Dalzim comes remotely close to the description [23:25] Ab: Destroy? [23:25] Perhaps [23:25] Ab: I could not allow that. [23:25] Why? [23:25] It is possible that we have been misinformed or uder-informed [23:25] under [23:25] Ab: Why would you? What has he done? [23:25] It is my personal belief that what AD has done that is evil by our sources definition, is not considered evil in your lands [23:26] * alamark looks at the others [23:26] Well, he detects as evil. [23:26] It's possible that we are misinformed, wrong, or having our spells twsited by the presence of magic, but there coems a time when the evidance just is overwhelming [23:27] Ab looks unhappy. [23:27] We are _not_ at that stage yet Kasin [23:27] AA: Even if you are right, the vizier would not be easily bested. [23:27] * alamark looks at Kasin sharply [23:28] AA: Even the dragon could not do so, and that was long ago. [23:28] No, he probably can't [23:29] you are right Alamar, we aren't at that stage. but time is passing Alamark, time is passing. even given the probable time dilation [23:29] M: We can't kill someone because of time pressure. [23:29] * alamark sighs [23:30] We need more information about the Heart. Who can help us besides Abi-Dalzim? [23:30] OOC: I'm sorry guys, but it's getting to midnight... [23:30] No, we can't. But we do have to do _something_ [23:30] and we don't even know if we can get out of here yet! [23:30] perhaps Shotan and I should try to go astral? [23:31] Renik: And what if you simply disappear? [23:31] W: Would look great for the trial in there. [23:31] :) [23:31] OOC: ...so I think we're going to have to finish up. Will give you two some time to think about things as well. [23:31] (grrrr) [23:32] Ditto [23:33] (Sorry guys, but it _is_ late. And we're not likely to get a much better place to leave it for a while.) [23:33] (ok, so we are fighting the pirates, so we are fighting the conjurer, so we are fighting the demon, so we are coming here to do a quest to doa div about the spells to fight the demon. so we are going through the temple, so we are going (maybe) to the heart. Finishing something would be nice!) [23:34] Now you know how Thalla feels! :) [23:34] Touche [23:34] (Maybe, but not tonight.) [23:34] (grin) [23:34] (ok, ok. just unhappy in char.) [23:34] (Have 17k XP. No favor - yet - and I'll see you guys later. Wed maybe?) [23:34] OK [23:35] ok [23:35] Good night! [23:35] *** GM has quit IRC (Leaving) [23:35] *** Disconnected Session Close: Mon Aug 07 23:35:34 2000