>>2954422
>Summer
>>Feminine energy

>>2954422
>spring
>femine energy

>>2954422
>Fall
>Masculine Energy

>>2954441
>>2954443
>>2954458
I’ll give it a little longer to see if we get a clear majority on anything and if not I’ll roll to decide

>>2954422
>winter
>feminine

I wanna use snow powers.

>>2954422
>Fall or spring
>Masculine Energy

>>2954422
>Masculine energy
>Summer

>Fall
>Masculine Energy

>>2954422
>Spring
>Feminine energy

>>2954422
>>Fall
>Masculine

>>2954422
Winter or summer

Masculine energy

>>2954422
>Energy: Masculine
>Season: Summer or Autumn or Spring

>>2954422
>Summer
>Feminine energy
Perhaps Seelie or Unseelie would have been a less contentious choice.

>>2954422
>>2954458
Supporting

Already threw my vote earlier for fem spring. Time when all things to grow or are reborn.
But masculine fall or winter would be fine too, although bit darker theme.

File: first-day-of-autumn..jpg (3.52 MB, 3840x2400)

3.52 MB JPG

>>2954598
>Fall
>darker
Only at night but at day, it's beautifully awesome.

See it as the peak of beauty getting ready to start the cycle anew.

>>2954422
>Spring
>Masculine

>>2954422
Male
Spring

Winter is probably out but I'll vote for it anyway.

FEM energy

Collecting all of the votes for easier tallying.

>>2954441
>>2954566

Summer /fem
>>2954443
>>2954504
Spring/fem
>>2954458
>>2954501
>>2954506
>>2954575

Fall/mas
>>2954486
>>2954694

Winter/fem
>>2954494
Fall or spring/mas
>>2954498
Summer/mas
>>2954507
Winter or summer/mas
>>2954513
Summer or fall or spring/Mas
>>2954651
>>2954686
Spring/mas

>>2954773
I would hope my vote for season doesn't tie me to energy vote

>>2954773
Autumn and Masculine are the winners, writing.

File: 42DAD8E4-22E0-418A-9116-D(...).jpg (256 KB, 1285x900)

256 KB JPG

The Twigfather and Leafmothers normally resplendent flower crowns have completed the shift from greens to reds and oranges and yellows and begun to wilt in preparation for the winter, perhaps this is a sign of their waning influence at the moment of your birth.

The trees shake as your draw nearer to exsistence, their leaves the shades of fire alive with movement anticipating you.

There is an audible pop, then a series of crackles like the beginning of a fire as you begin to take shape several feet above the surface of the forest.

You are heat, you are fire, you burn brightly into existence and many of the lesser fae, especially those of the earth recoil from your sudden flare. As with all of your kin there is an enchanting, awe inspiring beauty to your form but you are undoubtedly, if fae had true genders, male. Your form is strong and aggressively built and your beauty is of the savage and direct kind. Your shape is humanoid, though you stand around fifteen feet tall, and you are cloaked in leaves that move like a hungering and roaring flame. First you look outwards, examining the two dozen or so fae that have come to witness your arrival. You feel the ebb and flow of raw mana that comprises them all.

Secondly you look inwards, feeling what your own body is capable of.

Most of your kind are born with but a single inherent talent for magic, unlike them you sprang forth with the disposition for three.

Fae, ironically are unlike the nature they represent and are usually unbalanced either favoring one side of the cycle of life and death. Their leaning is determined by the fields of magic they’re born in tune with. Balance Fae are not common but do exist, they typically stand out amongst their kin though.

The fae recognize seven fields, or schools, of magic. Six of them are paired with one representing life and the other representing death. The seventh is singular in the sense that it holds not inherent sway towards one side or the other, it is the actions that bring forth the magic that determine its sway.

>cont

>>2954836
The seven schools of magic are with Abjuration, Evocation, Conjuration, Transmutation, Divination, Illusion, and Subjugation.

The three schools that favor life are as follows.

Abjuration, the power to heal, to protect, to negate other magics. It is paired with Evocation.

Conjuration, the power to create, to summon, to move oneself through space. It is paired with Transmutation.

Divination, the power to see, to know, to understand what is to come. It is paired with illusion.

The three schools that favor death are as follows.

Evocation, the power to harm, to destroy, to channel magic in its rawest form. It is paired with Abjuration.

Transmutation, the power to change, to mold, to alter the world and its inhabitants on your whim. It is paired with Conjuration.

Illusion, the power to hide, to confuse, to control what those around you know. It is paired with Divination.

The seventh, unpaired and unbalanced school is as follows.

Subjugation, to enforce, to charm, to bend the wills of lesser beings to your own.

>>Pick three schools to be born specialized in, the only restriction being you may not pick two paired schools (Your fae may not have both Illusion and Divination, for example).
——————————-

>>Gained: elemental magic: Fire (may control exsisting flame and conjur small fire to harm foes or light ones path)

>>Gained: Immense strength (+20 to strength rolls)

>>Gained: Glamour (may trick lesser beings into believing you are one of their kind.)

>>2954844
>Abjuration
>Subjugation
>Conjuration

>>2954844
Abjuration, heal
Conjuration
Illusion

Let's be life leaning, not so grinderp, I just hope we don't get the mind control as that is shitty as fuck

>>2954844
>Abjuration
>Conjuration
>Illusion

>>2954844
>Transmutation, the power to change, to mold, to alter the world and its inhabitants on your whim. It is paired with Conjuration.
>Abjuration, the power to heal, to protect, to negate other magics. It is paired with Evocation.
>Divination, the power to see, to know, to understand what is to come. It is paired with illusion.
To effect one's will on the world, to deny the world's will effected on the one, and to see the consequences of these things.

>>2954844
>Abjuration
>Conjuration
>illusion

>>2954844
>Abjuration
>Transmutation
>Evocation

>>2954864
You have my +1

Although >>2954875 is not either

>>2954938
*is not bad option either*

>>2954864
>>2954873
>>2954896
>>2954938
Abjuration, Conjuration, and Illusion. A Fae on the side of life. Writing.

>>2954875
Honorable mention, I liked this combination a lot.

You look inwards and assess yourself as you gently drift downwards and land on the forest floor.

Your form becomes more defined the closer to get to the ground. Your face softens slightly with the vigor of youth, the leaves that cloak you plump with life and grow in number. A warmth radiates from you as you feel the crunch of drying leaves underfoot.

As you look inwards at the mana that comprises you, you find a desire to protect and create, to hide those under your care from what would ail them most. You feel the need to heal damages done. You sense also there is a secrecy about yourself, part of you that wishes to keep others in the dark. A warm smile comes over your face as your vision once again turns outward.

The Twigfather meets your gaze and gives you a deep bow while the Leafmother does an approximation of a curtesy. Their forms are covered with gnarled branches and roots. “Greetings, newborn.” The deep bass of the Twigfather’s voice resounds across the clearing. “I am Twigfather Cassius. This is the Leafmother Delphine. What may we call you?” You notice, beyond the gather Fae, the forest is reacting to your arrival. Minor pixies flit in to catch a glimpse of you, woodland creatures gather on instinct, even the more pious of the forest goblins pay their respect and due reverence.

There is a moments hesitation as you find your voice and speak for the first time. Your name is....

>>Pick a name.

———————————-

>>Modified: Elemental Control: Fire (in addition to conjuring small flame and controlling existing fire, you may choose to radiate a warmth from your body, providing comfort and safety to lesser beings in the cold months)

>>Modified: Glamour (Your disguises are more convincing than an average Fae and thus more likely to fool lesser races.)

>>Gained Abjuration Spell: Barrier (you may create a small barrier that blocks both physical and magic entertainment from passing through it for a short time)

>>Gained Abjuration Spell: Minor Mend (Knit torn flesh, heal damaged plant life, and restore things on a minor scale)

>>Gained Conjuration Spell: Bloom (create plant life of any kind witnesses)

>>Gained Conjuration Spell: Call Forth Aid (In times of need, creatures of the forest and those who feel loyalty towards you are drawn to you.)

>>Gained Illusion Spell: Confusion (The minds of mortals are easily distracted, and even lesser Fae may not focus under the power of your gaze)

>>Gained Illusion Spell: Cloak (Hide yourself and those you can touch physically from sight for a short period of time)

>>2955025
Gwyn

>>2955025
Thessius
Or
Augustus

>>2955025
Dristan

>>2955025
Aurelio or aurelius

>>2955025
>Aurelio

>>2955025
>Heros

Dristan and Aurelio are fine ones too

>>2955025
>Gwyn

>>2955025
gwyn

>>2955025
>Aurelio

>>2955025
>Oberon

>>2955025
GigaNigga

>>2955040
>>2955043
>>2955091
>>2955356
Aurelio it is. Writing

“Aurelio.” You find your voice after a brief pause, your name happily rolls off of your tongue. You find the sound of your voice jovial, warm, and almost paternal which renews the smile upon your face.

The Leafmother speaks to no one in particular, her voice wizened and severe. “The golden one. Fitting.”

The Twigfather ignores her comment and steps forward. “Welcome Aurelio, welcome to the Court of the Thicket. Our court was once one of the most powerful in all of the land, though the Diminishing effected us worse than most. We are regrowing as is the will of nature.”

The rest of the Fae gather in closer, looking eagerly between you and their leaders. You can feel them weighing and estimating what usefulness you could bring them. One of them speaks up. A feminine energy, her body covered in flowers all brightly bloomed in blues. “Cassius, we have long awaited this moment, let us let the revelry begin to celebrate our new kin, yes?”

The Twigfather starts to respond. “Helia, I must in....” but he is quickly interrupted by a masculine energy, his body covered in thick vines adorned with barbs. “No, Aurelio must be desperate to stretch his legs. Let him go free and explore our domain before we kick things off.” Helia frowns at this intrusion and the Twigfather opens his mouth to speak once more and is once more interrupted. A slight male energy covered in puffs of dandelion seeds speaks above the rest. “Let Aurelio decided, he is the reason we have gathered!”

Half a dozen other voices join in, all chattering and voicing their own opinions before the Twigfather shouts over the din. “Enough!”

A tense silence fills the grove. “Very well, Aurelio, since you are our honored guest. What would you like to do?”

>>”Revelry? I think that sounds fitting, if it has already been prepared.”

>>”I could do with a look around my new home.”

>>”I would follow your lead, Twigfather.”

>>Write in

>>2955638
>>>”Revelry? I think that sounds fitting, if it has already been prepared.”

>>2955638
>>”Revelry? I think that sounds fitting, if it has already been prepared.”
Everyone is gathered and everything is ready, we can walk around after this.

>>2955638
>”Revelry? I think that sounds fitting, if it has already been prepared.”

>>2955638
>”Revelry? I think that sounds fitting, if it has already been prepared.”

what is the current season?

>>2955951
It is autumn

>>2955643
>>2955650
>>2955882
>>2955675
Revelry it is! Writing

You glance around at the recently cowed Fae. “Revelry? I think that sounds fitting, if it has already been prepared.” Grins and looks of excitement bloom like flowers amongst the crowd. Helia, the fae of blue flowers, steps forward and offers her hand. “Of course it has been prepared. We have felt your coming for many seasons.”

You smile and take her hand. The Twigfather stamps a foot and exclaims. “To home! We rejoice!” The few forest goblins quickly squawk with panic and scurry away from the site.

Helia and you quickly fall into a raucous crowd that leads you from the grove. Fae weave with wildlife, foxes, deer, wolves, and even a solitary bear join in the celebratory procession.

You soon arrive at a small clearing in the forest, surrounded by the thickest and tallest trees for miles, the entire clearing is awash with fallen leaves. It is quickly evident to you that the trees have been shaped to form homes for your kin. The center of the clearing is dominated by a large table of still-living, woven branches. The table is set with dozens of stone plates and goblets, the smell of the food waiting reaches your nose and ignites a hunger in you you’ve never felt before.

Whoops and cheers erupt as Fae leap into dancing circles and dive into the feast laid out for you. Enchanting music fills the air. Helia releases your grip. “Enjoy yourself. Join me in a dance if you so wish.” She drift away, her feet almost gliding across the dry grass and leaves.

The Twigfather and Leafmother sit at opposite heads of the table and begin to gorge themselves on meats and what smells like sweet wines.

The Fae with thorny brambles chases the miniature pixies and snatched them out of the air in a way almost too aggressive to be playful.

The Fae coated in dandelion fluff flits happily through the air flicking the strings on a strange musical instrument made of flowers and branches.

>>Join in the feast

>>Join in the dance

>>Join in the chase

>>Write in

>>2956219
>Join in the chase

>>2956219
>>Join in the feast

>>2956219
>>>Join in the feast

>>2956219
>Join in the feast

>>2956219
>>>Join in the dance

>>2956219
>Join in the feast

>>2956219
>>>Join in the dance

>>2956219
>>Join in the feast

>>2956361
>>2956325
>>2956249
>>2956239
>>2956238
And now we feast.

File: BCDC3642-BA05-4B10-8A2B-4(...).jpg (114 KB, 400x363)

114 KB JPG

While joining Helia in a dance is tempting, you can not ignoring the growing ache of hunger in your stomach.

You stride across the clearing and towards the table. You find that each seat is a match to the Fae sitting in it. You glance around and find that the table lacks a chair sharing your autumn-toned leaves. A maternal looking Fae, her body comprised of equal parts water and flesh, notices a moment after you do and glances to the head of the table. “Leafmother, Aurelio requires a seat.”

The female energy spares but a moment to glance up and grunt. “Very well.”

You watch as branches spring to life from the earth and shape themselves into a seat, the wood writhing around itself like a series of snakes. Just as the shape of the seat finishes it sprouts leaves that match your own and lead towards you, beckoningly. The leafmother’s slight of seating you towards the middle of the table does not go unnoticed, even by your young mind.

You seat yourself and glance around the table, a pitcher of sweet smelling wine and the bloody and raw haunch of a deer call to your growing hunger.

Conversation is scare at the table as you eat, most of the Fae focus on satiating their hunger. You do the same and before you notice night has fallen over you. The clearing is illuminated by all matter of fluorescent plantlife and the buzzing light produced by both fireflies and pixies.

You glance around, the Leafmother had long since excused herself to retire into her abode but the Twigfather sits contently at his seat at the head of the table, watching the dancing circles with mild interest.

Just as you begin to consider what to do next a shrill scream cuts through the music that had been relaxing your mind.

Helia steps towards the table, a spear buried in her stomach. Blood like liquid gold pours forth from the wound.

A Fae bellows over the clamor. “Varag attack! Defend the clearing!” Helia draws near to you and you can feel the sickening vibration of iron from the spear in her stomach.

You leap to your feet, unsure of your place in the battle.

>>Fight these beast (Use a Spell, Use your Hands, Find a Weapon)

>>Heal the wounded and protect the weak (How?)

>>Support the defenders on the frontlines (How?)

>>Write in

>>2956603
>>>Heal the wounded and protect the weak (How?)

Heal Helia right now, then defend our warriors with barriers to hold the iron weapons with magic while the return the attack

>>2956632
>>2956603
This. We have mostly defensive powers so let's use them.

>>2956632
Supporting

>>2956603
>Fight these beast
Use illusion (cloak and confusion) to get right in the middle of them, then use our immense strength and rip them apart

>>2956632
Gotta support this, we can stop their blades and confuse the attackers after taking care of the first woundeds

>>2956603
How able are we to come up with spells or magical effects on the fly?

For instance, blurring the forms of the defenders with illusions to make them harder to hit, or conjuring an autumn mist to blanket the field and similarly impair the attackers' visions?

>>2956668
I’m all for creative applications of spells Aurelio has on his list, and spells not on the list but under one of the school he’s specialized in I’ll allow at a higher degree of difficulty.

Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>2956632
>>2956636
>>2956640
>>2956659
I’ll call it here, can I have rolls of 3d100. We’ll do best of three. 1s and 100s are crits. First die is healing, second is barriers, and third is how well the defenders fair

Rolled 85, 41, 55 = 181 (3d100)

>>2956683

Rolled 8, 13, 89 = 110 (3d100)

>>2956683

Rolled 48, 25, 87 = 160 (3d100)

>>2956683

Rolled 19, 83, 44 = 146 (3d100)

>>2956683

>>2956687
>>2956690
>>2956718
Totals of 85, 41, 89. Writing. Sorry for the delay!

Your instincts kick in after only a moments hesitation. Helia is the most obvious of the wounded. You grasp her arm and pull her closer to the table. She utters a grunt of pain as you jostle her slightly and lay her down on the autumn leaves.

You wrench the spear from her stomach, the wooden shaft vibrating evilly in your hand and the mere sight of iron blanching color from your leaves. You glance around and send the spear hurtling towards one of the loping goblinoids and impale it on a tree.

You turn you attention back to the wounded Fae before you. You take a steadying breath, free from the oppressive energy of the iron, and channel the magic that fuels you into the palm of your hand.

A soft white glow envelopes your fingers as you press your hand flat against Helia’s blood slick stomach. You feel a ripple in her skin as you touch her and your magic begins it’s work.

She gasps and writhes in discomfort as first the flesh rapidly regrows and seals the hole that was once there and then the muscle underneath does the same though not to the same extent the flesh had. You remove your hand, knowing that while not all of the damage has been healed you have done all you can for her.

Several other wounded Fae make their way towards you obviously seeking the same aid. Their wounds are not nearly are severe as Helia’s, and you find them much easier to treat.

While you triage the wounded you glance around, the defenders fight valiantly against these foul creatures but their iron weapons leave viscous and ragged wounds. You extend your free hand and channel another stream of magic into it. Barriers of light matching the many shades of autumn spring to life. You do your best to spring the barriers forth in the moment before a blade connects with one of your kin. The barriers shatter under the iron weapons but last long enough and divert enough of the force of the blow to save defenders on several occasions.

Emboldened by your healing, and the Leafmother springing to action, floating ten feet above the ground raining hellish magic upon the beasts, the defenders begin to take the advantage and the Varag begin to lose numbers in earnest.

Two of the beasts, having spotted the triage point you’ve set up, break away from the main battle and speed towards you. Helia and the other more heavily wounded Fae are the only one that remain in your care and all of them are unable to aid in defending themselves.

You must face these beasts yourself.

>>How do you want to handle this?

>>2958307
Call upon the wild, branches, thorns and vines grow exponentially being conjured by us, they entangle suffocate and rip the flesh of the beasts, bathing the forest floor with their blood.
Let us dispatch them so we can properly take care of Helia and the others.

>>2958307
Befuddle the minds of the attackers with Confusion, if possible setting them against each other. When they regain their senses, you and those around you are Cloaked from their sight, and the creatures of the forest Called Forth to your Aid.

Probably best to go with what we already know on this situation, really.

>>2958318
Supporting

>>2958307
We use bloom spell to create vines and thorns to slow the enemy and pull their weapons aside, before striking them down with our fists. We keep barrier ready against their weapons.

>>2958316
>>2958318

these, confuse them and use the plants to restrain and kill them. Defend Helia and the others.

>>2958318
+1 this

Rolled 15, 99, 63 = 177 (3d100)

>>2958316
>>2958318
>>2958332
>>2958353
>>2958355
Confusing and entangling the attackers while cloaking yourself and the other wounded while calling forth aid from the wild. Sounds good to me, let me have a roll of 4d100, best of three. First roll is confusion, second roll is bloom to entangle, third is to cloak yourself and the others, fourth is to call upon the beasts of the forest for aid.

Rolled 40, 75, 51, 15 = 181 (4d100)

>>2958416

Rolled 50, 35, 22, 32 = 139 (4d100)

>>2958416
inb4 crit fail

Rolled 49, 90, 24, 18 = 181 (4d100)

>>2958416

>>2958423
>>2958422
>>2958421
Totals. 50, 90, 51, 32. Writing

The two Varag draw close, both hunched low to the ground clutching brutal looking iron short swords.

You grimace at the sight of these foul creatures and wave one of your hands at them. You watch as both of their eyes slightly glaze over and their grip slackens on their weapons.

With a wave of your other hand, you force life into the soil at their feet, thorny vines and bramble bushes spring forth and begin to entangle the two dazed Varag. The thorns bite deeply into their flesh but the vacancy of their minds prevents them from registering the damage done to them otherwise they would have trashed free long before now.

The flesh of their legs begins to shred under the mass of sharp vegetation but you feel their minds working through the initial wave of confusion you had assaulted them with. You hastily wave your hand and feel a thin sheet of nothing slip from between your fingers. You cast this net of nonexistence over yourself and the wounded behind you.

If the creatures had been more alert, they probably would have seen through your hurriedly cast spell but the lingering affect of confusion leaves them unaware of where you may have fled. The two Varag quickly tear themselves free from the enchanted vines spitting and cursing at the blood pouring from their legs in a harsh and guttural language.

You instinctively set out a beacon, calling for aid from anything nearby while you watch the Varag sniff around for you. If anything has heard your call, it has not yet answered.

>>The two Varag are wounded and dazed but searching for you, your cloak spell does not hide from scent. You are unsure if your call was successful.

>>How do you procceed?

>>Just to establish the system a little better, you can do up to four actions a turn in combat or devote multiple die to less actions, to represent the power a being made of magic.

>>2958529
Call animals again, confuse them, and while they're confused and we're hidden, punch them good. Focus is on punching them.

>>2958529
Create a barrier around us,if it is successful we create vines to hold their weapons arms and crush them with our superior force coming out of our hiding place for a surprise attack

>>2958529
Form a solid Barrier - impermeable to all but light - around them to block their movements; by halting the flow of air, they should also be unable to sniff out your scents.

Within this enclosure, bid more thorns and vines Bloom and bite deep into their flesh. Mend these plants even as they are hacked and torn at to ensure your foes do not break free.

And all this while, keep your allies Cloaked as they evacuate the scene.

barrier, confuse and punch

>>2958549
This

Rolled 10, 89 = 99 (2d100)

>>2958599
>>2958549
Create a barrier to protect the wounded, then entangle them and launch a surprise attack. Give me 4d100, best of 3 please.

Rolled 64, 20, 48, 43 = 175 (4d100)

>>2960841

Rolled 27, 3, 38, 14 = 82 (4d100)

>>2960841

Rolled 52, 92, 49, 34 = 227 (4d100)

>>2960841
I'd hoped for a more hands-off battlefield-control style of combat, but I guess we're going hands-on.

>>2960898
>>2961056
>>2961058
Total rolls of 64, 92, 49, 43. Writing. Since these are mook enemies I’m not going to give specific HPs, and I’m considering changing up the way combat works slightly after this one finishes.

The two creatures slowly begin sniffing their way directly towards you. You quickly will a barrier into existence. Strangely, though you can feel the barrier drawing from your pool of mana, the barrier seems to be nonexistent. You step forward and reach out with your hand. You find that the barrier, much like ourself, is invisible.

You turn your attention back to the Varag and they seem to have lost the scent due to your barrier. You quickly force life into the soil once more. Thick vines spring forth like the grasping tentacles of some great beast and you don’t waste a single moment as they struggle and fail to get free.

With their weapons held to their sides and their legs weeping blood from your previous assault you feel a direct attack would end this quickly.

You leap over the barrier and feel the cloak of invisibility slip from you like a gentle breeze. You register something akin to fear in the two creatures eyes as you land before them.

With a bone splintering crunch you bring your fist down on the first Varag’s face. You feel bone part and his skin conform to your hand like a glove before you wrench your hand free. The beast’s features hang lopsided and limp, deformed and greviously injured but still living. The second one squawks in fear, releaving his bladder down his bloody leg. It croaks a single word. “Yield!”

Your vines tighten their grip on the two Varag as you pause to consider if they are worth sparing. You glance around, the rest of their kind are fleeing or dead, they are the last living Varag in your clearing.

>>Let them live.

>>Kill them.

>>2961216
>Let them live.
Information is key. By extracting anything useful from these two, we may be better equipped in the future.

Besides, we are not leader among our kind. It is not for us to decide their fate or mete out punishment for their crimes.

>>2961216
>>Let them live.
Just make sure he's truly defeated and tied up.

>>2961216
>Let them live.

>>2961216

>>Kill them.

>>2961232

Supporting

>>2961232
+1

>>2961216
>>>Let them live.

>>2961293
>>2961322
>>2961402
>>2961438
>>2961494
Let them live. Writing.

>>2962890
Girlfriend has kidnapped me for the weekend, my apologies. I will update first thing on Monday

>>2966060

Thanks for not disappearing entirely, I'll see you then

You step back from the two Varag and will more magic into your bloom spell, ensuring they remain entangled. One of the defending Fae quickly comes to your side, in his hands is what looks like one of the Varag’s swords but instead of being forged of metal it is a single piece of a thick black leaf that seems to hold a razor-like edge. You instinctively recognize this as the dried leaf of the Sickle-Bough. The Sickle-Bough is a short carnivorous tree, it draws in prey with sweet smelling fruit and entraps them with the incredibly sharp and flexible untreated version of the Fae’s blade.

The Fae, his body like the husk of a tree in winter, steps forward and prepares to strike down the two Varag. You speak out. “They have yielded.” The Fae pauses for a moment before barking a rough response. “They are foul creatures, undeserving of quarter. They would show us none in return.”

“We could question them, about their kin. Information is power.” The Fae grunts and seems to ignore you, stepping forward with murderous intent. The low bass of the Twigfather’s voice stops him in his tracks. “Aurelio has a point, Palius. We have much to learn from the. Like where their ilk has gotten weapons of iron. Only dwarves know the secrets of that foul substance.”

The Twigfather calls forth three other Fae and bids you to release the Varag. Once you do he and the four other Fae lead them into one of the giant trees.

You feel a tugging sensation, something presses against your barrier. You release both the barrier and the cloaking spell. And Helia, in one sudden motion, both springs into existence and stumbles forward. She catches herself before she falls and greets you with a smile. “I owe you a great deal, and I will endeavor to repay you in full.” You return her smile, understanding the importance of owing something to another Fae. Until she repays you for saving her life she is indebted beyond simple gratitude.

Other healers flit in among the other wounded. Helia drifts off toward another of the great trees, mumuring about seeking rest.

You glance over at the thorn covered Fae who had been chasing pixies earlier, he has five Fae gathered around him and he is speaking in hurried, tense tones. You catch the word “Twigfather”

>>Join the Twigfather in his interrogation of the Varag

>>Make sure Helia makes it safety to her abode.

>>See what the thorny Fae is up to.

>>Write in.

———————————-

>>Gained Bloom Sub-Spell: Entangle (Summon thick and barbed vines to entrap and harm foes. 1d10+5 damage per round entangled. Entangled foes must overcome the roll for casting Entangle to free themselves, the difficulty lowers by 5 every turn after the second. Entangled targets can not move or attack.)

>>Gained: Major Debt- Helia (Helia owes you greatly for saving her life.)

>>2972281
>>>Make sure Helia makes it safety to her abode.

>>2972281
>>Join the Twigfather in his interrogation of the Varag

>>2972288
actually, change mine to

>>See what the thorny Fae is up to.


the twigfather can handle interrogation but I smell treason from these guys

>>2972281
>>>See what the thorny Fae is up to.

>>2972281
>>See what the thorny Fae is up to.

>>2972320
>>2972439
>>2972488
Seeing what the bramble bedecked Fae is up to. Writing.

Your attention affixes itself towards the group of Fae gathered around the Bramble-clad Fae, and you find yourself wandering in their direction.

He makes eye contact with you as you join their group, you see he is covered in wounds from the combat though none of them are severe enough to warrant attention. “Aurelio, I see you handled yourself well during the Varag attack.” You nod. “I made sure the wounded were defended.” He gives you a wide smile. “Aye. You took care of those two cur. It is good to have more kin willing to defend our clearing.” You glance around at the rest of the group, the gathered Fae are covered in simple and plain foliage and all near some kind of wound from the fight. Three of them are male and two are female. “I will ask you what I asked the rest of our brothers and sisters here. Did you see the Twigfather at all during the battle?”

You think back, your memories clear as day, and you can not seem to recall where the Twigfather was or what he did to aid in the defense of the clearing. The thorned Fae, taking advantage of your silence speaks again. “Exactly, he was absent. He most likely ran to hide while we bleed for him.” He pauses for a moment, looking at you. “Forgive me, brother. I have forgotten my manners.” He offers a deep bow. “I am Vreel.” He meets your gaze and you offer a customary bow back to him. He begins speaking as you rise. “As I was saying, none of us saw the Twigfather, supposedly the mightiest among us, lifting a finger to defend his sacred lands. As one who owes him no debt, brother, what would you say about such a thing?” You feel the heat of side pairs of eyes coming to rest on you.

>>Defend the Twigfather

>>Agree with Vreel

>>Remain neutral

>>Write in

>>2972530
I would say absolutely nothing about it before I talked with him and asked, which I will do, so don't start formulating theories about his involvement before I have a chance to talk with him

>>2972530
>>Remain neutral

>>2972593
this
>>Remain neutral

>>2972593
Support

>>2972530
"I would say you that should speak to him yourself rather than behind his back. I would say that you have a right to the truth. I would say that you should not assume things for true until you know for certain they are proven so.

"It may be that what you say is true. Perhaps he may be a coward, undeserving of respect or fealty. But remember: there are also those among us possessed of magicks less overt in nature - abjurations and illusions that let us defend and strike from unseen.

"Whichever the case, you have a right to know the truth. And I wish you luck in finding it."

>>2972593
>>2973007
Love the Write ins! These are similar in tone so I’ll combine them. Writing

You look up at the gathered faces before resting your gaze on Vreel. “I would say absolutely nothing about it before I talked with him and asked, which I will do since as you said I am not in his debt, so don't start formulating theories about his involvement before I have a chance to talk with him.”

Vreel’s face looks uncertain for a moment before a smile returns to his face. You press on, not giving anyone a chance to retort. "It may be that what you say is true. Perhaps he may be a coward, undeserving of respect or fealty. But remember: there are also those among us possessed of magicks less overt in nature - abjurations and illusions that let us defend and strike from unseen.”

You pause, purposely leaving enough time for someone to speak. Vreel allows a moment to pass to ensure niceties are followed before scanning the small crowd as he speaks.. “You speak well brother, and you speak true. But you are young. The Twigfather does not possess the skills in magic as you do. He was a terror to behold once, he could see the future as clear as we see the present, he could bend both nature and minds at his whim. It has been long since he has shown any true display of his power.” He takes a pause for breath and rests his gaze directly in yours. “Do not take me for a coward brother, I fully intend to challenge Cassius on where he was during the raid. I merely wished to ensure I was not mistaken in his absence. Maybe we are all simply mistaken, but I do not believe it to be so.”

You nod at Vreel as a murmur of assent passes through the group. "Whichever the case, you have a right to know the truth." Vreel gives you a sly smile. “You will find that truth among our kind is more valuable, and harder to find, than the diamonds the dwarves covet so deeply.” He turns his attention back to his gathered friends. “That is enough for tonight, you all have injuries to nurse and victories to celebrate!” A hearty cheer sounds from the five of them and the group disperses.

You catch a glimpse, higher up in the trees of the Leafmother watching from a small balcony. She quickly disappears into the shadow of her domicile when the two of you make eye contact.

>>Check in with the Twigfather and his interrogation

>>Retire for the night

>>Explore the forest around the clearing

>>Write-in

>>2974574
>>>Check in with the Twigfather and his interrogation

Let's see if those damn industrious dwarves are involved, damn shorties destroying nature, burning and melting everything

>>2974574
>>Check in with the Twigfather and his interrogation

>>2974574
>Check in with the Twigfather and his interrogation

>>2974610
>>2974657
>>2974794
Checking in with the Twigfather. Writing

You watch as Vreel makes his way back to the table at the center of the clearing, taking up a cup and making revelry with the other defenders.

You turn towards the tree you saw the Twigfather head with the prisoners and head towards the gaping mouth at its base that permits entry to the homes within. You glance upwards and see the entire center of the tree is hallow and filled with rings around its edges that form the base for each home. Each home is made from the bark of the tree, shaped and grown inwards in random shapes and forms. A sadness creeps into your heart, there are hundred of homes in this tree alone and yet the table in the clearing is only set for dozens.

You glance around the immense structure, unsure of where the Twigfather could be, until a Fae passes by. She has the face of youth in its rawest form and is covered with slick, and wet-looking seaweed. “Can I help you Aurelio?” You smile. “I am looking for the Varag prisoners, and the Twigfather.” The mention of the Varag let’s a look of fear creep into the edge of her expression but she turns and points towards the far edge of the tree, where the earth gives way to a descending stairway of roots. “They will be down there, surely.” You nod and offer a bow. “Thank you…” she smiles and curtsies in return. “I am called Pasina.” You nod and start over. “Thank you Pasina.”

You leave her company and quickly descend down into the bowels of the tree. It is not long before you come into a chamber that could only be suited for captives. The ceiling is low and the air heavy and damp, the two Varag hang from the low walls, their wrists gripped tightly enough to purple their digits by thick roots. The pair of them are either sleeping or lacking consciousness.

The Twigfather stands near the opposite wall of the chamber, while Palius stands nearer to their limp forms. Palius is gently coated with flicks of blood and spittle.

The Twigfather turns, as if he expected your entrance. “I wondered if you would join us. You have only just missed them giving us all that they knew.”

You bow respectfully. “What did they say, Twigfather?” He glances over at the two Varag. “They did not know much. They said their leader, the raider known as Hursk, provided them with the iron weapons but would not divulge where he acquired them.” He gives the prisoners a look of disgust before returning his attention back to you. “They claimed their clan numbers close to a thousand fighters and that Hursk armed all of them. This group was merely to test our defenses and take what they could. Only dwarfkin could arm so many warriors. These are foul omens.”

Palius moves over to join both of you. “I say we move quickly, they won’t expect us to have taken prisoners. They’ll think we assume this a one time occurrence. We move to their lairs and root them out. I’ll carve Hursk’s head from his shoulders myself.”

>>Cont

>>2975010
The Twigfather takes a moment to consider his words before turning back to you. “I would like to hear what you think, young one. You were the one that thought to capture these two. What course of action would you suggest?” He gives you an appraising look as he awaits a response.

>>Palius is correct, we must strike when they do not expect it

>>We must defend our clearing, they outnumber us severely. We must work on keeping our people safe

>> I am no war-fighter, I would leave such decisions to minds more suited for the task.

>>Write in

>>2975015
>>We must defend our clearing, they outnumber us severely. We must work on keeping our people safe
If they didn't have the numbers, I would definitely pick offensive but they have iron weapons and most likely booby traps.

>>2975015
>>Palius is correct, we must strike when they do not expect it

If we invite them here we will be pinned and I sicerely doubt they have a thousend people and sent just a dozen or so. They must have exagerated, also, kill them

>>2975015
>>>We must defend our clearing, they outnumber us severely. We must work on keeping our people safe


but how about we send some scouts to check if the told us the truth? with more information we can decide if we can commit to an attack

>>2975015
>Write in
"The element of surprise alone may not be enough to take Hursk's head when we number so few and they so many; I would be unwilling to risk the lives of my kin on that chance. But we cannot defend indefinitely and hope that they break themselves upon us. Hursk has received aid from an unknown source - though we can guess. Perhaps we too ought to seek out allies?"

>>2975211
I don't think anyone will help us.
>Humans
Savages
>Elves
Only for themselves

>>2975211
OOOhhh
this is good! Maybe the elves would be willing to help, being tree huggers and whatnot

>>2975221
>Only for themselves
we can try to change that, and we don't need all of them, just a few

>>2975221
The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Perhaps there's a people out there who bear an unrelenting hatred of dwarves?

>>2975015
>Palius is correct, we must strike when they do not expect it
We can always retreat if things look like they're going south. This way the fighters won't have to worry about protecting others. Hit n run, that sorta thing

>>2975261
This. We can always retreat after causing chaos

>>2975015
>We must defend our clearing, they outnumber us severely. We must work on keeping our people safe
Set traps and stuff make tree gurds

>>2975024
>>2975107
>>2976596
Defending the clearing

>>2975053
>>2975261
>>2975479
Agree with Palius

>>2975211
>>2975222
Find allies.

A tie between attacking and defending, I’ll leave this up for a little longer and then roll if the tie isn’t broken

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>2977019
Rolling, defending the clearing is 1 and agreeing with Palius is 2

“I would agree with Palius. They will not expect a counter-attack and, though I doubt they were genuine about the number of fighters under Hursk, even if our forces do begin to get overwhelmed we can fade into the forest that birthed us. Our kin will be able to focus on the task at hand more readily, as well. Without the worry of protecting our own.” Cassius, the Twigfather, takes another pause to consider your words.

“Very well. Palius, gather your most able fighters and tell them to prepare. I think we could risk fifteen and still be able to defend the clearing. You will leave at first light.” Palius’ face alights with a smirk before he bows and excuses himself from the two of you.

You’re unsure what to do next as the Twigfather stands in silence, simply staring at you for several moments. Just as you begin a bow and prepare to leave, he speaks. “Aurelio. You will accompany Palius and his fifteen. Palius is one of my most trusted kin, but he has a thirst for blood and battle. In taking these prisoners you have shown you know when mercy is the correct choice. You will lead this counter-attack with Palius” His expression becomes uncertain for a moment. “Palius will not take well to you being made his equal in this matter, but he is indebted to me and will respect my decision. I would suggest you get your rest for the night, the dawn approaches fast.”

With that, the Twigfather gives you a simple nod of his head and makes his way towards the stairs leading to the surface. You notice, with some small measure of horror, that the roots that hand imprisoned the two Varag have now burrowed into the flesh of their wrists and seem to be drawing their lifeblood from them.

>>Rest for the night

>>Find Palius, see what preparations there are to be made. (Write in how you’d like to handle being appointed his equal on this mission)

>>Explore the clearing

>>Write in

>>2977194
>>>Find Palius, see what preparations there are to be made. (Write in how you’d like to handle being appointed his equal on this mission)

see if they know the terrain and how they plan to approach, we can cover our movements with ilusions if needed to get in and get out.
after that we

>>Rest for the night

>>2977210
Agreed

>>2977194
Rest for the night

>>2977194
>Rest for the night

>>2977210

Agreed here and make sure to let him know that we're not trying to take complete charge of the attack, he can lead the frontline fighters while we focus on healing and support, we can work in conjunction with each other

>>2977194
>>Find Palius, see what preparations there are to be made. (Write in how you’d like to handle being appointed his equal on this mission)
We tell him the Twigfather appointed us as equal, but since he is the more experienced one we defer to his command on everything but the retreat. If we say that it is time to retreat, then we must all retreat.

>>2977210
>>2977326
>>2978396
>>2978629
Finding Palius. Writing

You make your way back up the surface quickly, intending to find Palius. You glance around for the Fae that directed you earlier, realizing that you had no idea where he could have gone, but find her absent.

You head into the clearing, wondering if Vreel may have seen Palius. You search is ended the second you step into the shining moonlight, Palius’ voice echoes across the open ground. He stands near the tree opposite the one holding the prisoners and you watch as a flurry of motion fills the mouth of the tree. Fae enter and exit and rapid speeds, gathering supplies for their coming raid.

You make you way over to Palius, who makes you wait for a moment while he inspects the equipment of one of the Fae that had been listening to Vreel earlier. “Yes, Aurelio?” His voice is tinged with excitement. “The Twigfather has appointed me to accompany you as…” Palius interrupts you, before you can finish. “Very well. Join the ranks being assembled and gather what supplies you’ll need for our journey. For as long as you serve under me, I will expect total obedience when I issue an order, understand?”

You take a deep breath as he awaits a response. “The Twigfather has appointed me as your equal for this mission.” You pause as his jaw drops. “But I want to make it clear. I have no intent of stealing command of your men. I defer to your skill and experience.” This seems to assuage some of his concern. “I will use my skills to heal and support you and your men but if I call a retreat, I expect my station to be respected and the order followed?”

Palius considers his words carefully for a moment before speaking in a low and measured voice. “Very well, though if I feel you are calling a retreat out of cowardice your station or order will not matter.” He snaps his attention back to another Fae waiting to be inspected, Vreel stands grinning despite his still mending injuries. His bramble-coated vines and cloaked beneath thick bark-like armor that you recognize as being crafted from the bronzewood tree. He carries a maul that is simply a large stone head with what appears to be a young tree grown around it to form a haft, yes despite its simple appearance you can feel magic energy radiated from it.

>>2979685
“Very well. We leave at dawn.” Palius remarks to Vreel before turning back to you. “I suppose, since you are my equal in this mission, it would be unbefitting for you to stride into battle unarmed and unarmored. I will furnish you with a weapon, and should you wish we shall see if we can scrounge together some armor.”

A sharp whistle escapes from his lips and a half dozen pixies shoot forth from higher up in the trees. Palius speaks a word in a language you don’t understand, sounding like a series of whistles and clicks before the pixies dart back into the bark of the tree. You take this moment to ask Palius. “Do we know the terrain of the Varag’s lair?” Palius nods. “At the edge of our forest, where the trees give way to the plains sits Hursk’s fortress. Walls of felled trees ring his crude camp.” You nod. “I can cloak our movements as we approach those walls.” Palius gives you a begrudgingly affirming nod. “I suspect your gifts will be vital to our attack.”When the pixies finally re-emerge dark shapes float between their glowing forms as they gently swoop down before the pair of you.

Four weapons hover in the grasp of the pixies, even the smallest taking several of them to hold it in place.

>>Pick a weapon

>>Blood-Leaf tipped spear. A long and slender shaft of wood tipped with a blood leaf, the leaf is sharp as a scalpel and derives nourishment from the blood it spills.

>>Bronzewood cudgel. A short and brutal weapon, able to crush and dent armor, even iron, with almost contemptuous ease.

>>Sickle-bough shortsword. A smaller version of Palius’ own weapon. It’s blade is suited for stabbing and chopping and is nearly unbreakable.

>>Heartwood Bow. Accompanied with a quiver of two dozen arrows. The wood of the bow allows it to draw as hard as the user can pull. Combined with your strength, it easier out preforms a dwarves crossbow.

>AND

>>Ask Palius anything else?

>>2979687
>>Blood-Leaf tipped spear. A long and slender shaft of wood tipped with a blood leaf, the leaf is sharp as a scalpel and derives nourishment from the blood it spills.
Let's call it Sanguine.

>>2979687
>>>Blood-Leaf tipped spear. A long and slender shaft of wood tipped with a blood leaf, the leaf is sharp as a scalpel and derives nourishment from the blood it spills.

I can go for a spear yes

>>2979752
Supporting

>>2979687
>>Heartwood Bow. Accompanied with a quiver of two dozen arrows. The wood of the bow allows it to draw as hard as the user can pull. Combined with your strength, it easier out preforms a dwarves crossbow.
Since we are for surrporting

>>2979752
>>2979767
>>2979803
Spear it is. Writing

You consider the weapons before you for a moment before reaching out and grasping the spear.

The second your hand makes contact with the smooth wood you feel a sensation that is vaguely reminiscent of a hum. You feel the hunger of the blood-leaf at the tip of the weapon. You know that you have chosen wisely, this weapon will serve you well whenever you need it.

Palius smirks as the pixies lift the remaining weapons back up into the tree. “I assumed you’d choose the bow. I will see what armor we can put together by the morning.”

You give the spear a few testing thrusts, getting a feel for the balance of it. “It suits you, that spear.” Palius comments airily. “You should name it.”

You look down at the weapon in your grip and feel it’s yearning to spill blood. “Sanguine.” The word, as it slips from your lips, seems final, and right. Palius gives an affirming nod. “You best get some sleep. Only a few hours remain before dawn and I’ll expect you to be the first one here. You make take any unoccupied quarters in any of the trees, save that one.” He points to the largest tree. “That is the home of the Leafmother and Twigfather and their invited guests.”

You nod absentmindedly, focusing on the spear gifted to you. “I leave you to inspect the rest of the men. Thank you for your gift.” You give Palius a customary bow before heading towards one of the giant trees.

You pick a tree at random and find yourself a fairly large room close to ground level. You find small groves grown from the wall that seem the perfect place to hold your spear.

You set the spear down and steal a glance out through membrane thin bark windows into the clearing. Palius works tirelessly to inspect and ready the men.

You yawn and find a large bed, with a mattress made from thick, soft, and pliable leaves and burrow into them.

Sleep finds you quickly, though it’s restfullness is dubious at best. Your inner mind is filled with images, colors and sensation. The dreams frequently jolt you awake. They make no sense to your conscious mind and are unrelenting each time you drift back to sleep. You know they must mean something but it is beyond your grasp.

You awaken as sun begins to filter into the clearing, clutch your spear, banish the previous nights dreams from your mind, and set out to meet Palius.

—————————————

>>We’ll call that an end of thread one, since we’re dropping close to the edge of the board.

>>I plan to take the weekend and work out a decent combat system and make a pastebin character sheet for Aurelio. New thread will be Monday around noon or early afternoon EST.

>>Tell me what you guys thought, bash me for not proofreading, tell me what else I can improve on until this thread dies. Personally, I’m happy with how thread one went, typos aside, and I’m looking forward to where this quest will go. You guys had great write ins and ideas. Thanks for taking part!

>>2981933
Thank you for running, I'm enjoying the quest and playing as a Fae is new and fresh, keep up the good work and see you next thread

>>2981933
Thabk you for running. It's a pretty fun quest. Have a good weekend.