Play by E-Mail Turns

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=80 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF" bgproperties="fixed" background="11200500dvldtc.gif"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFCC66" FACE="Arial" ><B>The Soaring Blade</B></FONT><B>     |     </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="The Soaring Blade"><U><B>home</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id158.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Novid Copperleaf (3E Stats)"><U>Novid Copperleaf (3E Stats)</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id185.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="3E Spells "><U>3E Spells </U></A>   |   <A HREF="id176.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="History"><U>History</U></A>   |   <B>Play by E-Mail Turns </B>   |   <A HREF="id128.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Aspects"><U>Aspects</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id23.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Novid Copperleaf"><U>Novid Copperleaf</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id75.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Novids Magic Items "><U>Novid's Magic Items </U></A>   |   <A HREF="id127.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Spells"><U>Spells</U></A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=210 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF" background="2e4d2c00dvldtc.gif"> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=400 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF"> <div> <B>Play by E-Mail Turns</B></div> <div>  This section of the Soaring Blade web-site is meant to allow the players to keep up with what has been happening with thier e-mails without having to search the Egroups database. I have compiled all e-mails from the list here.</div> <div>   <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0099FF" FACE="Arial" >I am working on highlighting the player's messages in blue</FONT>. The DM's messages will be in grey. </div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="527" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 19 ><NOBR><div> Current DM mail will be highlighted in yellow and placed in an outline. </div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div>   Note that this is a repost of all the avalible e-mails, not written as a story. Details may be a little choppy. Hopefully everything will be understandable. If you have any questions, please e-mail me!</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="24b6c5f0.jpg" border=0 width="108" height="95" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <div> <B>Ronolier, the current head of the mage's guild, has sent you a letter, asking you to be the host of a mage's gathering (a party) at the guild.  Part of being the host includes all the preparing and some expense of your own, during which time your shop would have to be closed or you could have your appentice's run it for you (cutting into their study time). </B></div> <div> <B>  Being asked to host the gathering is a great honor, although the request can be denied. </B></div> <div> Novid has Blackstaff the mage, his link to the Mage's guild, as his advisor, as well as Westor, the owner of the small Inn called the Falcon's Rest next to his shop who talks business with Novid (and who Novid knows keeps his mouth shut).</div> <div> Blackstaff: "Congratulations, Novid. I'm sure you will make a fine host. I hosted a gathering a few years back myself."</div> <div> Westor: "Sounds like to me it's an excuse to have you pay for their fun. I'd host the first "bring-your-own heroe's feast-making cleric gathring." Westor chuckles."</div> <div> <B>Profit +0</B></div> <div> <B>Reputation +0</B></div> <div> <B>Clout +0</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems +0</B></div> <div> <B>Training +0</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic +0</B></div> <bR> <div> <B>________________________________</B></div> <div> Novid sighed as he read the letter from Ronolier. With all the excitement recently involving the Soaring Blade and the rescue of Caresonna, all he wanted was a few days of peace and quiet. But by now everyone had been coming by the shop and asking if Novid intended to host the Mage Gathering. Erika and Tamon, Novid's apprentices, had both been dropping subtle hints about the gathering. </div> <div> As Novid hung his Cloak of Reflection in the closet and muttered an incantation to Wizard Lock the door, he made a note to himself to take the cloak to the cleaners to get the Black Dragon acid cleaned off of it next week. It was time to put these items away and back in the mothballs for awhile. </div> <div> Erika and Tamon had done a good shop taking care of the shop while Novid had been away. Neither of them had ever attended a Mage's gathering. Novid still suspected that Erika had magic powers far beyond the ones Novid himself had, but she might need a better teacher. The mages gathering would be a good chance to observe how far Erika and Tamon's skills had progressed during the official and unofficial displays of skills that took place at the Mage's Gathering. </div> <div> Novid glanced at Sa'sass Tam's Staff laying on the table. He would need to contact Blackstaff, and perhaps others, before attempting to identify the properties of the foul Lich's staff. </div> <div> Novid sat down a composed a note,"Ronolier, I would be honored to host this year's Mage Gathering. Please contact me at your convienence to set up the details or come by the shop to see me, </div> <div> Novid Copperleaf" </div> <div> Novid then went to tell Tamon and Erika the good news first, that he had agreed to host the Mage Gathering. The bad news was that they would all need to burn some midnight oil to get the current orders for gemcutting done so that the shop could close for a few days so that they could all attend.</div> <div> <B>-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</B></div> <div> <B>Results of the decision to host the Gathering:</B> </div> <div> <B>Profit -1</B> </div> <div> <B>Reputation +1</B></div> <div> <B>Clout +1</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems -1</B></div> <div> <B>Training -1</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic +1 (Due to events in The Final War)</B></div> <div> <B>During the Gathering, the mage known as Herus the Learned, from the prestegious Candlekeep, approached Novid. Herus' reputation stated he was one of the greatest teachers of magical learning, although he never left his schlorly fortress. </B></div> <div> <B>Herus looked at Novid for an awfuly long time before speaking. "Novid of the Soaring Blade? I hear that your students have learned well under your teaching, and that they know more than most adventurers even without travels themselves. This is excellent, but I doubt they can learn much more at your gem shop, no ofeense. I offer the chance to take them to Candlekeep to continue their training, where they can become true masters. In return, I will leave Ramel, a young lad that I beleive has some potential in the art of illusion and needs to be trained by someone I can trust. I have heard of you and see no problem with letting you teach the boy.... if you plan to be around the city for a while."</B> </div> <bR> <div> Truth be known, both of your apprentices have learned almost everything you can teach them, and such a trade of apprentices is common practice, and doing so with Herus could only increase your reputation and clout. However, taking on a brand new apprentice is always a lot of work. </div> <div> Tamon and Erika are both excited about the offer to go to Candlekeep, but at the same time are more than satisfied with your teachings, which they are learning from every day. By the code of the Art, the appentice cannot chose to stay or go from his mentor - the master decides such things based on the need and readiness of the students. </div> <div> Blackstaff: </div> <div> "The lad needs a good teacher, and being exposed to Waterdeep could only do him good, you know, to see the world so to speak. Aye, take the trade. You can still speak with yer old appentices through magic." </div> <div> Westor: </div> <div> "Those two you have there do a lot of work, and for free! If you take on a new, young appentice, you might have to hire someone to do extra errands! Don't cut a hole in yer own coinpouch, my friend."</div> <bR> <div> Novid summoned Tamon and Erika into his chambers. " I have decided that it is time for you to expand your studies as Mages, and I am not up to the task...... Herus has graciously offered to let you apprentice under him at Candlekeep. The libraries of Candlekeep are some of the finest in the realm, and much larger then even the Mage's guild here in Waterdeep. Herus is well-respected and is willing to focus on teaching alone. You have become advanced enough in your studies that in order to learn the spells of higher mastery, you must be willing to devote all of your time to study and practice. I am not able to give you the time you deserve with having to run my shop being a full-time job in itself. You will always have a place to stay and a job here at Novid's Gems and Jewelries if you decide you want to return. This is a sad day for me but should be a happy day for the both of you. This will give you a chance to achieve to your fullest as Mages and make me proud,since I feel towards the both of you like a father to his children.</div> <div> -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> <B>Profit (no change) -1</B> </div> <div> <B>Reputation (+1 due to direct dealings with the powerful mage from candlekeep) +1</B></div> <div> <B>Clout (no change) +1</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems (no change) -1</B></div> <div> <B>Training (-1 stays the same due to the wet-behind-the-ears appentice, Ramel)</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic (no change) +1 </B></div> <div> <B>Ramel seems a pleasent lad, but is only 12, and thus has little experience in helping you run a gem shop. Novid has the options of trying to teach the lad the business of the gem shop, closing down the shop a couple of times a week, or hiring some gem cutters from the local guid to help out and let the lad do the day to day chores such as washing dishes and sweeping the floors.</B></div> <bR> <div> Novid summoned Ramel to his chambers." Ramel, I will expect you to earn your keep while you are here and assist me with running errands and keeping the store clean. In return I will close the shop a few days a week so I can begin teaching you the ways of illusion. Magic and gemcutting are similar in that they both require patience and precision. I will begin teaching you the ways of gemcutting as well.</div> <bR> <div> ----------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> "Gem cutting? Gem Cutting?" Ramel repeated himself as he responded to the last words spoken by his new mentor. "master Novid, is that neccessary? I wish to learn of magic, not of emeralds and diamonds."</div> <div>   Novid smiled, but only slightly. "You'd be suprised at what emeralds are capable of, as I have seen first hand." He did not think that the young man would catch the reference to Shalamar, and he was right. Ramel's face was laeyered in confusion.</div> <div>   "Nevermind that," Novid continued, "you were sent here to learn from me as I see fit to teach, and I chose to share my knowledge with you only if your gemcutting tests go as well as your spellcasting tests. You will learn patience from the experience, and that is something I see you need."</div> <div>   The young lad looked at Novid with a blank expression, trying to hide his disappointment. Yes, Master Copperleaf."</div> <div> ---------------------------------------</div> <div>   Closing the store 4 of the slowest days (not that there were many in Waterdeep) of the 10-day week had a slight affect on the profits, as Novid had expected, but the store seemed to still be doing well enough. Novid watched as Ramel polished the case (hevily guarded by magic from breaking or tampering) that held the fabeled Kalieth Stone, the perfect gem. It had gained an audience from nearly everyone who had visited the store, and it's presence alone had increased business. No other gem store in Waterdeep held such a prize. Novid had been offered several hefty prices for the item, but to have it meant that he had the greatest gem collection in the Realms, and it also possessed great personal value as the last item remaining from the Vault of the Forbidden, not including the great amount of "normal" treasure found in the dungeon. </div> <div>   It had been a good day. Since the destruction of Orcus in the Bloodstone Lands at the battle of Bloodstone Pass, the bloodstones that Novid had gathered in his adventures had sold well, although at one time they were considered cursed. He had sold three of them today.</div> <div>   Just as Novid was about to close shop for the day, three strangers came into the shop. One of the men was obviously a figter, dressed in heavy armor. The other was a cleric of the war god Tempus, a large warrior with a long moustache. The third member of the small band was a wounded wizard, dressed in crismon robes, they helped to walk. </div> <div>   The fighter spoke. "Greetings, I am Helmar, warrior of the Band of the Storm. It pleases me to meet you, famed Novid Copperleaf of the Soaring Blade, although I wish our meeting were under better circumstances. Our friend Thelus has been wounded and we wish to heal him, but Caruk of Tempus requires one of your bloodstones to cast his spell of healing that will cure the special poison that the monster we encountered injected into him." The fighter motioned at the cleric as he stated his name. "We have little gold, but we are willing to trade goods. The mage is powerful and  has helped us recently in defeating a few evil creatures for our services in protecting him."</div> <div>   The cleric, Thelus, a younger man with blonde, short hair and striking green eyes interrupted the fighter. "The poison works quickly. I will trade a potion of healing and 50 gold for a small gem."</div> <div>   This was a fair deal, Potions of Healing were always in demand from adventurers who wished to stray away from the churches for whatever reason. Novid began to accept the offer. However, looking down onto the man's cloak, novid spotted the small flame badge that indicated that he was a member of the Red Wizards of Thay! The flame carried three minor flames following the main fireball symbol, indicating that this wizard had reached the fifteenth level of mastery. He was powerful. </div> <div>   "The wizard will die within the hour without the bloodstone, and you are the only dealer in the city that carries the gems. Do you accept the trade?"</div> <bR> <div> <B>Profit (-2 due to closing 4 of ten days) -3</B></div> <div> <B>Reputation (+1 due to direct dealings with the powerful mage from candlekeep, no change) +1</B></div> <div> <B>Clout (no change) +1</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems (no change) -1</B></div> <div> <B>Training +0 (normal level)</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic (no change) +1 </B></div> <bR> <div> <B>-----------------------------------------------------------------------</B></div> <bR> <div> A glimmer of a frown passed before Novid's face as he saw the symbol for the foul Red Wizards on the wounded mages cloak. Novid thought back to just a few days earlier when he wore the Crown of the First Gods. If only this wizard knew the thoughts that had run through Novid's head at that time. The Company of the Soaring Blade had discussed ridding the Realms of the Red Wizards forever using the awesome power of the crown, but had decided instead to return Dinian and Kendall to the land of the living, much to Dinian and Kendall's relief. Novid thought back to the words that had been spoken. It is not for us to decide who is to live and die, even a group as disreputable as the Red Wizards of Thay. </div> <div> Novid did not recognize the face of the wounded wizard. This man had done him no harm, and he would have heard by now if the Red Wizards had been stirring up trouble in town. If the wizard had been poisoned, then it was either due to a monster as the men claimed or dealings with some evil types, since no one with a good reputation would use poison, the mark of a cowardly assassin. </div> <div> Novid spoke," Very well then, you have a deal. Here is the bloodstone." The frown changed to a smile. Truth be known, Novid would have probably given them the bloodstone even if they did not have the money. No sense letting a man die needlessly. But still, business is business, and Novid had a shop to run and bills to pay. Novid had to speak his mind though. "Gentlemen, I am a businessman...and your coin is as good as the next man's. But your friend Thelus might want to go heal back in Thay where he belongs.....Red Wizards are not welcome here in Waterdeep. Good day."</div> <div> -----------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   "Thay?!" the customers spoke at once as they looked bewildered at the mage. Obviously, there would not be much more of a collaboration between the men.</div> <div>   However, it would only be the beginning of the rumors and stories told about this encounter. Before leaving the city, the men, it seemed to Novid, must have told the tale to every tavern crowd in Waterdeep. Soon there were adventurers traveling into the shop asking why novid had helped a Red Wizard, and a few loyal customers were brave enough to tell the gem cutter that there were rumors that he was in leauge with the masters of Thay. Someone had even said Novid was Sa'zass Tam in disguise.</div> <div>   Luckily, Blackstaff made quick amends with the Wizard's Guild, making sure the local wizards knew that these were just rumors. Novid defended himself when asked, but was wise enough to just keep quiet, letting the gossip die on it's own. Still, some damage to his reputation had been done, but such was part of any business he supposed.</div> <div> -----------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div>   Novid had heard of the Church of Tyr buring to the ground here in his city, but had not seen the disaster for himself. Waterdeep was very, very large, and it would take a half day of time just to go see the damage. traveling across Waterdeep was never a short journey. Novid almost always encountered a merchant with some trinket he desired for his spells or shop. He wondered if Inamsu would accept his help if he offered. He had no kingdom to run, and his take of the treasures from all of his adventures made him a very wealthy individual.</div> <bR> <div> DM: Will Novid offer a donation to the church through the temple of Llorkth? if so, he will need to contact Inamsu and ask the elven priest if he will accept.</div> <bR> <div>   I am adding a new Aspect to Novid's: Wealth. it represents all of Novid's treasures and wealth. Profit now indicates how much money the mage is taking in (or putting into his business). </div> <div>   Since I have stated that Novid is breaking even in profit since shutting down his store for a few days a week, Profit returns to +0. Wealth begins at +10, due to Novid's vast wealth (not higher than that, however, since he hosted the Wizard's Gathering not oo long ago).</div> <bR> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: +10</div> <div> <B>Profit (No change, due to closing 4 of ten days) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Reputation (-1 due to helping a Red Wizard) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Clout (no change) +1</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems (no change) -1</B></div> <div> <B>Training +0 (normal level)</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic (no change) +1 </B></div> <bR> <div> <B>-----------------------------------</B></div> <bR> <bR> <div> ----------------------------------------------</div> <div> Novid Copperleaf entered his chambers and glanced over at the emerald orb. He had not heard anything from their creator, Shalamar, in many moons. Novid considered attempting to contact Inamsu Goldwind, but realized that Inamsu was no doubt over at the temple, probably swinging a hammer so large that Novid would have been unable to lift it. Novid sighed to himself.....stone shape, move earth, summon earth elemental, the list goes on and on. It would be so simple to rebuild the church. But Tyr had decided that would be too easy. The followers had to do it the old fashioned way, blood and sweat. </div> <div> Novid snapped his fingers and summoned an aerial servant. He would send a message to Inamsu and see what he could do to help. Novid then changed his mind and sent the creature back to its own plane. He would go offer his help in person. Even though it was a half day's travel, Ramel his apprentice would no doubt enjoy seeing the city. The boy deserved a break, since he had been busy learning his chores in the shop and beginning his apprenticeship. </div> <div> "Ramel, get out of your work clothes, we're going sightseeing today!" </div> <div> After they reached the site where the temple was being built, Novid spoke to Inamsu." Inamsu, I was wondering what I could do to help. While I prefer to leave the manual labor to you :) , I would be happy to help with a sizable donation. I also know some friends who deal with stones and gemcutting, and Im sure I could arrange some favorable prices for bricks, marble, and other stone work you might want for the temple."</div> <div> -----------------------------------------------</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: + 6</div> <div> <B>Profit (No change, due to closing 4 of ten days) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Reputation (+2 for donating to a good deity that is not Novid's own) +2</B></div> <div> <B>Clout (the donation raises a few eybows of those who ate on the upper social steps) +2</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems (some of the treasure had to be given in gems to make transport easier) -2</B></div> <div> <B>Training +0 (normal level)</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic (no change) +1 </B></div> <bR> <div> Novid had to keep reminding himself that the donation was to a good friend who was a high preist of the god Tyr. It was  still hard to give up so much treasure; it was a large part of what Novid had gathered as his cut of many treasures throughout the years.  He watched as the guards the city had donated helped give the priests money to the main chambers at castle Waterdeep. The priests now had, as Novid could gather, enough treasure to build the grandest temple ever, whith his donation, Inamsu's, and Artalium's. Inamsu had mentioned that Dinian had offered as well but Inamsu had declined the offer; prehaps Inamsu knew that Dinian's quests to the south would drain his of his treasures and felt that the cavalier of Tyr would need more gold in the future to continue the travels he made for Tyr.</div> <div>   Whatever the case, Novid was sure that Tyr would nod his way if he should need the god of Justice in the future. At least he hoped so. Traveling with his new apprentice, Ramel, he headed home to more comfortable surroundings. Novid had never really been an "outside" being, even with his elven heritage. He much preferred his den, his shop for cutting gems, and his bed, not that he required much sleep these days.</div> <div>   Arriving back at his shop, he could see that the business part of the week was picking up. Customers were about, as it was late in the day by the time he had reached his shop from the temple and the castle. Ramel had had a grand time, marveling at the wonders of Waterdeep for the first time. The lad certainly was getting his travel's worth. Any race or item could be found in Waterdeep - at the right price. The seaport was the most important city in the north, possibly in the known Realms, supporting almost every profession and holding shrines and temples to most religions.</div> <div>   They passed by Inns and taverns (a few of which Novid recognized), food and equipment shops, and the like, and saw just about every kind of adventuerer they could imagine. </div> <div>   Once home, Novid opened shop for a while, and for the few hours he was able to trade he made good profit. Running his hand through his sandy blonde hair, he stepped up from behind his counter and locked the door. </div> <bR> <div> ------------------</div> <bR> <div>   "No, no, Ramel, the sylabel is "aye-yah-toe-nay", not aye-yah-to-nay"." Ramel had succeeded in making a great illusion of a flower; he was supposed to have conjured a thorny bush. "That might impress your woman, but it won't do you any good against orcs."</div> <div>   "Yes, Master Novid", ramel sighed. He tried again, this time with the result of a yellow patch of grass, just as a <I>Magic Mouth </I>appeared at Novid's side. The Mouth was set to alert Novid when someone wished to see him but he was out of ear's reach of the door.</div> <div>   "Someone wishes your presence at the door." the mouth said. Novid had not put too much thought into a witty saying. The mouth did it's work. </div> <div>   Novid was a little annoyed at the interuption; his hours were clearly marked on the shop's doorway. "Keep practicing", he ordered his apprentice,"I will return shortly."</div> <div>   </div> <div> -------------------</div> <bR> <div>   Novid approached to door, wondering who it could be at this time of the night. peering out the curtain, he saw a lone man. He sensed no one else, and slowly opened the door abit. "We are closed, young man, please come back in the morn."</div> <div>   "Novid Copperleaf of the Soaring Blade? Please, I have business with you that is very important, and I dare not come in the daylight hours for fear of being recognized."</div> <div>   It could have been a trick; Novid had heard of such tactics among theives. He wondered if he should let the man in.</div> <bR> <div> DM: What will Novid say/do?</div> <div> -------------------</div> <div> Novid glanced out into the darkness,looking to see if the man was truly alone. Being a master of illusion, Novid would have easily been able to see any invisible companions with the man. Novid stated to the man, "One moment friend, and I will let you in." Novid closed the door for a moment. No sense taking undue risks, there were many thieves about. The stories had gotten around about the Kalieth Stone, the perfect gem that Novid had in his possession. And there were still uninformed rumors that Novid had the Crown of the First Gods in his possession, even though that was not the case. </div> <div> Novid summoned an unseen servant to fetch his Cloak of Reflection and amulet of non-detection. Novid turned to Ramel,"We have an unexpected guest. Go to my chambers and wait. If there is a problem, then use the emerald orb as I have instructed you and contact my friends in the Soaring Blade. Novid then closed the door to his chambers and wizard locked it. </div> <div> Novid then cast project image and detect evil, as well as ESP. Better to make sure this mans thoughts matched the words he spoke. The project image cast an exact copy of Novid. Novid himself then cast improved invisibility on himself and stood over to the side of the room, waiting and watching. As far as the stranger would know, the image of Novid would be novid himself. Novid then had the unseen servant open the door. Novid spoke to the man through his projected image. "Come in stranger, and have a seat. Please tell me the problem that has brought you here so late at night......."</div> <div> -------------------</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: + 6</div> <div> <B>Profit (No change, due to closing 4 of ten days) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Reputation (+2 for donating to a good deity that is not Novid's own) +2</B></div> <div> <B>Clout (the donation raises a few eybows of those who ate on the upper social steps) +2</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems (some of the treasure had to be given in gems to make transport easier) -2</B></div> <div> <B>Training +0 (normal level)</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic (no change) +1 </B></div> <bR> <div>   Novid waited as the unseen servant opend the door just as the illusion of himself made the motions of doing so. The effect was flawless; the men would assume the illusion had opened the door itself. Novid could not resist a smile. Such artistic uses of his spells were rarely called for. Most commonly, they had been used to simply scare opponents witless, and sometimes, as a last resort, to death. the last thought wiped the smile from Novid's face.</div> <div>   The man entered the store, looking about. A more than common reaction, but it still made Novid a little nervous, although he was not sensing that the man was evil with his spell.</div> <bR> <div>   <I>Incredible. Novid Copperleaf of The Blade. I can't beleive it's him. I didn't know he was an elf. I thought he would be taller.</I></div> <bR> <div>   Novid was receiving the man's surface thoughts by the use of his ESP spell. It was working, as far as Novid knew, perfectly. </div> <div>   "Thank you, Mage Copperleaf." He took a seat in the small area that customers used to examine cases of gems. Needless to say, the "waiting area" was rarely used. The furniture here was not new; it had come from the castle of Llorkth, bought by Novid from his friend Artaylium when the king had refurnished the castle some 25 years ago. Novid also had a nice armor suit, and a shrad, a giant piece of ice that formed in the Great Glaicer that would not melt unless exposed to direct flame. Even though the ice chunk was next to the fireplace, it would not be destroyed. Novid had seen it when an airship from Trimalon had made a rare appearance in Llorkth, and he had taken a fancy to it.</div> <bR> <div> <I>So many things from other places...  the fabeled gem of Kalieth!</I></div> <bR> <div>   "My name is Serane, and I am sorry to have come at such an inopportune time, but i am being followed, as I will explain. Two summers ago, my brother Rampale caught the blue chill. He has been slowly dying ever since, because, as I am sure you know, there is no cure for the idsease, even by clerical magic."</div> <bR> <div> <I>The Blue Chill... the coughing... always coughing... blue skin.... purple rashes....</I></div> <bR> <div>   "My older brother is the last remaining member of my family besides my cousin Elrin, and I refused to allow him to die in such a wicked way. I offered thousands of gold peices, my familie's entire savings, for anyone that could cure him. Although many tried, all failed. Finally, I decided to turn away from the help of the gods, thinking prehaps they wished me to look elsewhere."</div> <bR> <div> <I>The Gods... little help they were.... Will he beleive the next part?</I></div> <bR> <div>   "I traveled across the known Realms in the last two years, by aid of magic and horse. I have seen Suzail, Thay, even The Old Empires, and I learned much, but not where I might find a cure. The thought occured to me that I might as well travel back home to Amn and stay by my brother's side as he died... but I could not give up! I traveled by spell here, to Waterdeep, and asked about the mightiest mages here if a cure could be found. Nothing. Finally, as I was about to give my search up once and for all, a bard at a local tavern told me to contact you and ask about the Tower of Illusion to the north. He said it hold the cure I seek and if anyone could breach it's defenses it would be you, the master illusionist in the city."</div> <div>   "My cousin Elrin is following me, and I am sure he is in the city. I do not know for sure, but I do not think he followed me here. Does the Tower of Illusion hold what I seek? If so, can you help me? I have little to offer, but I have 2000 gold peices left and my servitude for the remainder of my life."</div> <bR> <div> <I>Servitude.... for life...</I></div> <div> --------------------</div> <div>   Novid raised an eyebrow. The "tower" Serane spoke of was the Castle of Illusion, to the north of the Savage Frontier. Forged by the gnome illusionist Fitzmilliyun Sparkledrim, it was filled with the greatest puzzles and traps any mage could design. Within the first century of his death, orcs raided the castle and killed the inhabitants. No treasure was ever found, and the orcs went mad. The castle sat empty for centuries, but was now occupied by MacBec maclyon, an evil mage that had a following of minions of orcs. Novid had heard rumors of some of the treasures that were still at the castle, but that was what they were; rumors. there was no real proof that anything of value remained at The Castle of Illusion. However, it was said that Burana's Balm, a magical plant that could be used to cure any disease, was part of the treasures there, as well as many magic items, gold, and gems. </div> <div>   Novid also knew that his companions, The Soaring Blade, would be valuable allies, but the castle had a very good chance of driving anyone but an illusionist insane with it's many magical spells. No doubt MacBec was already counted in that statistic... or was he an illusionist as well?</div> <bR> <div> DM: What will Novid's response be?</div> <div> --------------------</div> <div>  <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0099FF" FACE="Arial" > Novid spoke through his projected image.. "Serane, I am sorry about your brother Rampale. I have heard of this Tower of Illusion, but know nothing of it firsthand. Why were you so concerned about being followed here? any why would you be worried that your cousin Elrin might follow you here? Are his goals not the same as yours?" </FONT></div> <div> "As you probably know, I am retired from adventuring, but I would be glad to contact the mages guild here in Waterdeep to see if there might be an illusionist that could help you. From what you say, you would need an adventuring company to deal with the orcish armies. There are several taverns here in town where im sure you would be able to find a group to help you. The Company of the Soaring Blade does not actively adventure anymore, and I doubt that the two of us alone could handle this Castle of Illusion. Novid then paused to hear Serane's response.....</div> <div> --------------------</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: + 6</div> <div> <B>Profit (No change, due to closing 4 of ten days) +0</B></div> <div> <B>Reputation +2.5 (+.5 increase, see Blackstaff, below)</B></div> <div> <B>Clout+2</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems -2</B></div> <div> <B>Training +0 (normal level)</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic +1 </B></div> <div> <B>Blackstaff</B>: "You're making quite the impression on adventurers here in the city as a crusty old mage, although you hardly look the part my friend. Most of them have been saying that you are the best to go to for illusionary services and gem cutting, but don't ask you to go on any adventures. It's a good thing, really, it makes most people respect you for some reason. When it takes The Crown of The First Gods to make a man leave his home, he must be powerful". Blackstaff chuckles.</div> <div> <B>Westor</B>: "Yer kid scared the daylights out of my guests horses the other night with some kind of spell. I don't know what he was tryin' to do, Novid, but two of those horses will never be the same again. One of em' was wild as any mare you've seen, and now the poor beast just looks out like he sees endless fields of grass. I'll think it's funny when my those guests come back, if ever.""</div> <div>   </div> <bR> <div>   Serane explained. "My father has a large estate and a huge allowance of gold to pass to one of his sons. My brother is older than I, but my father did not wish to simply pass on his fortune based on age, nor did he wish to split his empire among two brothers. He decided that the wiser of the two sons would live the longest, barring disease, and that the gold would go to the son who outlived the other. He knew we were bonded far greater than gold, and would not attempt to kill one another.</div> <div>   However, should we both die, the family fortune belongs to my cousin, the next in line. I fear my cousin has hired men following me to stop me from finding a cure. I do not know if he is with them. </div> <div>   If my cousin killed us both, it would be obvious that he was a murderer. But if one of us dies and then the other met some "robbers" who happened to kill him, then my cousin has a much more beleivible story."</div> <bR> <div> Novid hated to turn the man back, but many adventurers stopped by now and again looking for a powerful mage to help them in their quests. Some, like this gentleman, actually wanted more than services, they wanted the mage to go with them. If Novid took up such tasks he could not train an apprentice nor run his shop. </div> <bR> <div> Over the next couple of days, Novid trained with Ramel, teaching him about inverted vay-lines (the proper and improper use of them when combined with vexter lines in an illusion somatic component). The lines were made with the pinky - they commonly formed weapons or claws (the illusions of them, anyway). </div> <bR> <div> Not much happens at the shop for the time being, although Novid needs to decide on what he will do for a few customers:</div> <bR> <div> 1. A dwarven fighter enters the shop and wants to trade a handful of bloodstone gems for Jasper gems of the same amount, and will offer to sell you more bloodstones as well . He's obviously good with gems, and there's no haggling. The thing is, Bloodstone Gems rise and fall in value all the time, whereas Jasper will stay the same. He's offering a large amount, but will sell either all or none.</div> <div>   This will drop wealth by 2, but will bring Gem Inventory back to +2. However, Gem Inventory will be divided into two seperate +1 Aspects, "stable" and "unstable" gems. Stable gems stay the same in value. Unstable rise and fall in value all the time, meaning the Gems Aspect score might change from time to time in e-mails, for better or worse.</div> <bR> <div> 2. A human mage (not of the local guild) wants to sell you a magic item, a Sword of Sharpness. He offers the sword at a fair (but expensive) price that you might be able to make a profit on if the right people come along.</div> <div>   This will bring Magic Inventory to +2, but will cause Wealth to drop by one.</div> <bR> <div> Novid will purchase the Bloodstone Gems. Since He does not worry about a steady cash flow, it doesnt matter if the price fluctuates. He will just hold onto them until the price goes back up.... </div> <div> Novid decides not to purchase the sword.</div> <div> --------------------</div> <div> I am changing Novid's Wealth score to actual gp, seeing how these scores are much more important to his shop Aspects.  The +4 translates into 40,000 gp, and I add 44,625 for your share of the treasure gained from The Final War (1/7th share).</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid Copperleaf</B>:</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: 84,625 gp</div> <div> <B>Reputation </B>+2.5 (+.5 increase, see Blackstaff, below)</div> <div> <B>Clout</B>+2</div> <div> <B>Training: </B>+0 (His student is learning at normal level)</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid's Gems (shop)</B></div> <div> <B>Profit Per Week:</B> <B>-250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Incoming gold from sales</B><B>: +1000 gp per week average</B></div> <div> <B>Costs</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>  Food: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Clothing: 200 gp per week (x100 of average rep/clout; spending more or less affects both)</B></div> <div> <B>  Magical Supplies: 400 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Training Supplies: 500 gp per week </B></div> <div> <B>  Other expenses: 100 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Total Costs: 1,250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems </B></div> <div> <B>  Stable Gems:</B> 10,000</div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems:</B> 10,000</div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic</B><B>: </B></div> <div> <B>  Scrolls: </B>10,000</div> <div> <B>Days open per ten day week</B>: 6</div> <bR> <div>   Novid was very pleased to see that Artaylium had sent his share of the treasure from their most recent adventure. It took some of the sting out of all the gold he had spent funding the mage's gathering.</div> <div>   looking over his books, Novid was concerned, however. He was not bringing in as much profit as he hoped; as a matter of fact, he was losing a little each week. Novid was not worried about losing his shop. He had more than enough gold to keep the store running for a long time to come. A very long time, indeed. But the lack of profit was simply not good. He needed to change something. </div> <bR> <div>   He ate well, quality over quanity. He considered that a bonus for all the adventuring he had done over the years. he would hate to change that.</div> <div>   It was expected of all Waterdeep shop and Inn owners to be seen in the best clothing possible. If Novid did not keep up with the constantly changing trends, customers might see him in a bad light and bring their business elsewhere, and the city mages were constantly trying to out-do each other when it came to clothing. Still, his prices are what kept his customers coming. </div> <div>    Novid's own magical supplies were needed for his various experiments, but he might start offering mage services as well as his gem sales. </div> <div>   Novid had little choice in the costs of his training supplies. If Ramel was to keep his training at the current level, he would need the best magical components.</div> <div>   Novid looked at his other expenses. Steed upkeep, gem cutting tools, gem cleaning tools, taxes. He had little choice in this matter, too.  </div> <div>   </div> <div> DM: Does Novid change any of these things himself, or will he ask Westor and/or Blackstaff for advice?</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> Player Note to DM </div> <div> I know we talked about this on ICQ , but here is my official response. </div> <div> Cut clothing allowance to 10 gp a month. </div> <div> Hire a person that can serve as a clerk/security guard(fighter type) . Whatever the going pay rate is, double it. Use know alignment, ESP, ect ect.. while interviewing the person for the job. The most expensive gems will only be handled by Novid personally, and those cases will remain locked with only Novid having access to them. </div> <div> If he is able to find a clerk with basic gemcutting/appraising proficiency, then the clerk will also be allowed to purchase and trade basic gems. ( say those of 100 gp or less ) If Novid is unable to find anyone, then the clerk will be able to sell gems only which Novid has already priced, and gems will only be purchased or traded when Novid himself is available. </div> <div> Let me know what is available and I will take it from there. I would also like to have the shop open at least two more days a week.</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid Copperleaf</B>:</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: 84,725 gp (=100 from previous turn)</div> <div> <B>Reputation </B>+2.5 (+.5 increase, see Blackstaff, below)</div> <div> <B>Clout</B>+2</div> <div> <B>Training: </B>+0 (His student is learning at normal level)</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid's Gems (shop)</B></div> <div> <B>Profit Per Week:</B> <B>96.5 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Incoming gold from sales</B><B>: +1000 gp per week average</B></div> <div> <B>Costs</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>  Food: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Clothing: 12 gp per month (was 200 gp per week (x100 of average rep/clout; spending more or less affects both)</B></div> <div> <B>  Magical Supplies: 400 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Training Supplies: 500 gp per week </B></div> <div> <B>  Other expenses: 100 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Guard: 2 gp per month (double the normal rate)</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>2nd level fighter Manter Silversword, LG</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  </B></I><B>Clerk/Gem Master: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>0- level Gemcutter/Clerk, Ulon Vassel, LG</B></I></div> <div> <B>  Total Costs: 1,250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems </B></div> <div> <B>  Stable Gems:</B> 10,000</div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems:</B> 11,000 (up 10% from 10,000 base inventory)</div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic</B><B>: </B></div> <div> <B>  Scrolls: </B>9,900 (down 100 gp)</div> <div> <B>Days open per ten day week</B>: 8 (was 6, this increases profit by about 100 gp per day on average)</div> <div> <B>Days Since Last Turn: 4</B></div> <div> <B>  </B><B>Beginning of the week, all 4 days opened. Changes made on second day. The end of the week should reflect a one-day extra opening, or about +100 gp, if all goes well. </B></div> <bR> <div> <B>  </B>Novid had spent the last few days trying to find a good guard and a decent clerk with good gemcutting skills. In another city, this might have been hard to come by, but in Waterdeep such skills were a copper a dozen. Novid had interviewed many canidates, and had found two employees he thought were of good character and skill, mostly from interviewing them with magic. </div> <div>   Manter Silversword was a fighter who had come from Silverymoon. He had been awarded a special ribbon, which he wore proudly, for stopping a small group of orcs from the Citadel of Many Arrows from raiding a caravan just outside of the city. He was still a young human, 24 summers in age, but had moved to Waterdeep to be with his wife and their small child. He lived in a very small house in the north of the city, outside the gates, and from what Novid could understand was in a large debt to a moneylender. he needed the job badly. there were hundreds of fighters looking for work in the city, and most shopd did not take the chance of hiring people that were not originally from Waterdeep.</div> <div>   Ulon Vassel was a skilled gemcutter with a great reputation with the guild. He used to work at Shiny Things, a gem shop on the other side of the city, but that shop keeper had decided to move to the east somewhere. The shop keeper had asked Ulon to come with him, but Ulon's only family, his aged father, needed his care here in the city. With the price that came with his skill, he ought to be able to take care of his father with little problem. </div> <div>   Novid had pulled up the shop's projected income to nearly 100 gold per week. He would see if it made a diffrence at the end of this quarter-month or the next. Still, just a slight dip in business would mean a loss for the week. Such was business, Novid thought.</div> <bR> <div> DM: Will Novid offer magical services as well as gemcutting services?</div> <bR> <div> This weeks special business:</div> <div> A cleric from the temple of Helm asks if you would make a donation to the church.</div> <bR> <div> Chaden the Cheese Man, now quite old, stops by and asks if you would like to buy a chunk of cheese popular in Amn. the cheese is a rare treat and worth about 10 gp - he offers it at 8.</div> <bR> <div> Scroll sales: 100 gp</div> <bR> <div> Unstable gems are up 10% for the week, meaning that sales could be looking up if they sell well.</div> <div> ------------------------------</div> <div> Novid thought long and hard. After being open for years, Novid's Gems and Jewelries was facing lean times. For the first time ever, Novid was faced with the possibility that he might actually be losing money every month. Novid regretted letting his two former apprentices go the previous month, both skilled gemcutters in their own right. </div> <div> Novid had decided to replace his former apprentices with new employees. While his new apprentice Ramel helped with daily chores, the boy didnt know a ruby from a diamond and was much too young to run the store on his own. </div> <div> Novid also decided that he would again begin offering magical services, although he would not advertise this fact except through word of mouth. Novid would rather prefer to stick to gemcutting. But with current sales, any way to bring in extra income would be necessary. Besides, Novid reasoned with himself, why not keep his magical skills up to date, especially when he was training another apprentice. Novid sent a message to his friend Blackstaff and Westor, as well as the mages guild letting them know that he would begin offering magical services on a part-time basis. </div> <div> Novid greets Chaden the Cheese man and purchases the cheese from him. </div> <div> Novid gives the cleric of Helm five gold pieces. </div> <div> Novid also has Ramel go out and post some flyers advertising the unstable gems that seem to be popular this week. </div> <div> Player Note to DM. Since we agreed that Novid has multiple nonweapon proficiencies that we have overlooked in the past, I want to begin pursuing Jeweler skill and begin dealing in jewelry more on the side. I assume that I am already selling Jewelry that the gems are set in, rings, necklaces ect ect. but have novid actually begin designing custom jewelry and perhaps start learning more about different types of metals and even getting a forge and begin smelting his own metals and ores . Let me know what you think.</div> <div> ------------------------------</div> <div> <B>Novid Copperleaf</B>:</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: 87,954 gp (up from 84,725 gp previous week)</div> <div> <B>Reputation </B>+2.5 </div> <div> <B>Clout</B>+2</div> <div> <B>Training: </B>+0 (His student is learning at normal level)</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid's Gems (shop)</B></div> <div> <B>Profit Per Week:</B> <B>96.5 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Incoming gold from sales</B><B>: +1200 gp per week average</B></div> <div> <B>Costs</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>  Food: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Clothing: 12 gp per month (was 200 gp per week (x100 of average rep/clout; spending more or less affects both)</B></div> <div> <B>  Magical Supplies: 400 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Training Supplies: 500 gp per week </B></div> <div> <B>  Other expenses: 100 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Guard: 2 gp per month (double the normal rate)</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>2nd level fighter Manter Silversword, LG</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  </B></I><B>Clerk/Gem Master: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>0- level Gemcutter/Clerk, Ulon Vassel, LG</B></I></div> <div> <B>  Total Costs: 1,250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems </B></div> <div> <B>  Stable Gems:</B> 9,000</div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems:</B> 10,800 (up 20% from 9,000 base inventory)</div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic</B><B>: </B></div> <div> <B>  Scrolls: </B>9,900 (down 100 gp)</div> <div> <B>Days open per ten day week</B>: 8 (was 6, this increases profit by about 100 gp per day on average)</div> <div> <B>Days Since Last Turn: 5</B></div> <div> <B>  </B><B>End of the week. One extra day opened. Store makes +142 gp this week. Sales of Bloodstones (unstable gems 1,000. Sales of stable gems 1,100.</B></div> <div> <B>  At the beginning of the week, the moneylenders estimate the value of unstable gems at another +10%!</B></div> <div> <B>  Novid is hired to cast Identify this week, and earns 1,000 gp. </B></div> <bR> <div> <B>  </B>Novid looked over his books. It did not appear things were as bad as he had thought. He was up a little over 3000 gold for the week, 2000 even without his spell casting, minus the cost of the gems he had sold of course. His other sales of reworking and carving gems for traders had not fallen under the new assistant. Casting the Identify spell had been taxing and took an entire day to recover from, but Novid was none the worse for it and had profited greatly from the casting. The adventurers had discovered that they carried a Wand of Fireballs, and were most pleased. The company of the Griffon would be return customers in the future, if they lived through enough adventures to return. </div> <div>   There was a knock at the door. The store was closed today, the ninth day of the week, and Novid was not expecting company. Manter knocked on the door three times, indicating everything was safe. Answering the door, there stood a small boy who gave Novid a letter and turned and walked away quickly. Novid could see that he had many other messages to deliver; his hands were full of such letters.</div> <div>   Opening the letter, which was stamped with Castle Waterdeep's wax marking, Novid wondered what type of message was inside.</div> <bR> <div>   <I>Novid Copperleaf,</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>  The Lords of Waterdeep are acoustomed to trading with other nations by the use of gems. Unfourtunatly, our gemcutter has passed away and had no apprentice. We could search for another suitable crafter, but we thought it wise to foster business here in the city by offering our gem cutting, apprasing, and like business to the shop that could offer us the best price. The common price is 500 gold pecies per day, for a ten hour day. Can you make us an offer better than this? Our messenger will return for your answer tomorrow at noon.</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>Best Regards,</I></div> <div> <I>The Lords of Waterdeep</I></div> <bR> <div>   Novid was excited to be considered for the position of official gemcutter to the Lords of Waterdeep. He had to do some shopping, anyway, and asked a few questions while in the market. It seemed that two other shops had been given the same message, Rings and Things and Belor's Baubbles. Novid was not suprised, as both were the best in town (besides himself, of course), and did fantastic work. They were als his chief rivals for business in the city.</div> <div>   500 gold pecies per day was a great offer, but Novid knew it was only a starting point. For crafting, rpair and apprasing, a gemcutter was worth about 25gp per day (Novid's shop made about 150 gold per day from this type of work). Of course, the Lords were willing to pay for expertise, and were obviously willing to pay up to the 500 per day, but expected to pay much less. One day per week meant most of the work would be apprasial, and all the shops would bid for the work. None of them would get the 500, but Novid was sure no shop would bid less than 250 for the work, even if they went that low. </div> <div>   Novid could talk to the other shop owners and try to trade some of his own goods and/or services in exchange for the position, with both other shops only decreasing the amount per day slightly so the Lords of Waterdeep did not think they were trying to scoop up the gold for one lucky "winner" (which is exactly what they would be doing, but it was legal). Such business deals were extemely common in Waterdeep.</div> <bR> <div> This weeks special business:</div> <bR> <div> An adventuring company,  The Band of the Brave, offer Novid 2,000 worth of stable gems for 1,800. After haggling, Novid is able to drop the Band down to 1,500.</div> <bR> <div> A man moving from the city offers Novid 1,000 worth of stable gems for 500 gold. He will not go any further down on his original offer, and Novid does not press. Half price is a good offer.</div> <bR> <div> Ramel learns his first cantrip, <I>Clean</I>, and was quite pleased in himself. Although Novid did not make too much of a celebration of the acheivement (trying his best to put on a good "mentor" show), it was a skill that had developed ahaed of expected time. Novid had no intention of allowing the boy to use it as an excuse to get out of his choes, however. he needed to learn the value of work without spells. there would be times when he would need to work with his hands for more than spellcasting.</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------</div> <div> Novid glanced at the letter and sat in deep thought for quite some time. While it would be quite a feather in his cap at first glance, Novid thought of several things that could go wrong. First of all, the position seemed ripe for politics, with the diplomats from the various countries no doubt would try to get favorable exchange rates and appraisals that would benefit them. Plus, Novid had no desire to be on the beck and call of the politicians, or to be interrupted just because a courier from some country had brought a payment or tribute that needed to be appraised. </div> <div> Plus, Novid knew the types of gems that he would have to be appraising, basically sacks of common gems and baubles used for everyday currency. The truly magnificent gems were owned by individuals, not governments, and were not traded during the normal course of business. Novid had no desire to sort through sacks of coal that idiots had mistaken for opals! </div> <div> But this was an honor to even be considered, especially considering Novid's half-elven blood and the way many commoners felt about such things. It would simply not do to thumb his nose or insult the Lords of Waterdeep. But perhaps there was still a profit to be made from all of this. </div> <div> Novid composed a letter. "My Lords, I am in awe that you would consider me for such an important position. However, I am afraid that I do not have enough time to do the job properly. I am currently training a new apprentice , as well as a new gemcutter at my shop. Plus, it has been my experience that duty has called many times in the past with the Company of the Soaring Blade, sometimes forcing me to be gone for weeks at a time. Obviously the City of Waterdeep needs someone who is always available. Until the position has been filled I would be honored to temporarily assist you with any gem appraising you might need. I am at your service, and it is with deep regret that I can not accept the position full-time. Novid sealed the parchment and set it aside . It was not yet time to send it. There was still potential coin to be made in this deal. </div> <div> Novid then sent a messenger to both Rings and Things and Belor's Baubles. He would wait and see if either of them would offer him a "donation" to not apply for the position. Novid realized that the fortune he had ammased during his years of adventuring made him one of the wealthiest men in the realms ,and that the other shops would no doubt probably be more desperate to get the position of Official Gemcutter. Novid then sat and waited for the other shops replies.................... </div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid Copperleaf</B>:</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: 85,954 gp </div> <div> <B>Reputation </B>+2.5 </div> <div> <B>Clout</B>+2</div> <div> <B>Training: </B>+0 (His student is learning at normal level)</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid's Gems (shop)</B></div> <div> <B>Profit Per Week:</B> <B>96.5 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Incoming gold from sales</B><B>: +1200 gp per week average</B></div> <div> <B>Costs</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>  Food: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Clothing: 12 gp per month (was 200 gp per week (x100 of average rep/clout; spending more or less affects both)</B></div> <div> <B>  Magical Supplies: 400 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Training Supplies: 500 gp per week </B></div> <div> <B>  Other expenses: 100 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Guard: 2 gp per month (double the normal rate)</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>2nd level fighter Manter Silversword, LG</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  </B></I><B>Clerk/Gem Master: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>0- level Gemcutter/Clerk, Ulon Vassel, LG</B></I></div> <div> <B>  Total Costs: 1,250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems </B></div> <div> <B>  Stable Gems:</B> 12,000</div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems:</B> 10,800 (up 20% from 9,000 base inventory)</div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic</B><B>: </B></div> <div> <B>  Scrolls: </B>9,900 (down 100 gp)</div> <div> <B>Days open per ten day week</B>: 8 (was 6, this increases profit by about 100 gp per day on average)</div> <div> <B>Days Since Last Turn: 1</B></div> <div> <B>  </B><B>End of the week. Closed. Store makes 0 gp this day.   </B></div> <div> <B>  At the beginning of the week, the moneylenders estimate the value of unstable gems at another +10%!</B></div> <div> <B>  </B></div> <div>   Novid sat at the table in his large dining room, eating a delicious breakfast of eggs, fruit, bread and fresh milk. As it turned out, Manter was quite the cook. At least he wouldn't have to hire one of <I>those</I>, too, Novid thought. </div> <div>   The illusionist looked out his window, thinking to himself about how strange it was being here sometimes, when he spent so many years on the road with his good friends, fighting horrible creatures and warding off evil wherever they went. For some odd reason he wondered where Kendel was. Probably not having a breakfast like this. Novid shuttered at the thought of all the iron rashions he had eaten over the years. The fringtening thing was if there were any left in his old adventuring pack they were probably still good.</div> <div>   Ulon was off for the day, and was probably still in bed. Novid had arose bright and early, however, to make sure that Ramel was going to get a good day of hard study in. There would be no slacking. </div> <div>   There was a knock at the door. Novid had not expected a response to his offer to the other shops so quickly. He glanced out the door, and there stood the little messenger lad, looking down a bit and clenching the letters like they held the secrets of the gods. Novid took the letters and the boy scampered away again like a jackrabbit before Novid could muster up an early-morning thank you. </div> <div>   Walking back into his home, Novid sat in his favorite chair he had gained from the kingdom of Llorkth. He opened the letter, and began to read.</div> <bR> <div> <I>Sir Copperleaf of Novid's Gems,</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>  I have read your letter and have decided that I will offer you 2,500 gold to not take the offer. However, I can only guarantee this offer if our mutual competition does not take or win the position. If he does so, I will honor your sacrifice with a payment of 500 gold. Do you agree with these terms? I can offer you no more, and I must be honest in saying I could use the work. Things have slowed a bit on this side of town since Rings and Things opened a few years back.</I></div> <div> <I>  You should stop by the shop sometime for lunch. We have never actually met before, and I think it would be nice to know someone with mutual interests in the trade. Do you play Saybes? It's a most interesting game of skill.</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>best regards</I></div> <div> <I>Belor</I></div> <bR> <div> Novid took the other letter, this one sealed tighlt with a string, and opend it as well:</div> <bR> <div> <I>Novid Copperleaves,</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>  Trying the easy way into riches are we? I should have expected as much from a half-elven "adventuerer". Well, you will see my gold when the trolls die from darts! I suppose Belor made you an offer, the old fool. </I></div> <div> <I>  I'll be the new royal gemcutter wether you want the position or not. Keep your elven nose out of my business!</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>Nivas</I></div> <div> <I>Rings and Things </I></div> <bR> <div> Novid sat down and prepared a response for the Lords of Waterdeep. </div> <div> "My lords, I spoke of the fact that I felt Nivas had prejudices towards other races. The reason that I do this is to protect the interests of the City of Waterdeep. I am not going to make accusations, or bring forth evidence against Nivas. If you do an independent investigation, you will no doubt come to the same conclusion. But I am not going to pursue this any farther, for as you spoke bigotry is not against the law and this is not a trial. I do hope you will check and verify this information for yourself and choose the candidate for Royal Gemcutter that will respresent ALL the citizens of Waterdeep, human and non-human , to the best of their ability. If I can assist you any further please do not hesitate to contact me. </div> <div> Novid Copperleaf </div> <div> Novid's Gems and Jewelries </div> <div> This dispute would be handled personally by Novid, best not to bring added attention to the matter.</div> <div> ---------------------------------------------</div> <div> Experience: 500 x 50 = 2500 </div> <div> <B>Novid Copperleaf</B>:</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: 88,454 gp </div> <div> <B>Reputation </B>+2.5 </div> <div> <B>Clout</B>+3 (refusing to take such a highy respected position gives Novid the reputation of being "good enough" to refuse it)</div> <div> <B>Training: </B>+0 (His student is learning at normal level)</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid's Gems (shop)</B></div> <div> <B>Profit Per Week:</B> <B>96.5 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Incoming gold from sales</B><B>: +1200 gp per week average</B></div> <div> <B>Costs</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>  Food: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Clothing: 12 gp per month (was 200 gp per week (x100 of average rep/clout; spending more or less affects both)</B></div> <div> <B>  Magical Supplies: 400 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Training Supplies (Ramel): 500 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Other expenses: 100 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Guard: 2 gp per month (double the normal rate)</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>2nd level fighter Manter Silversword, LG</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  </B></I><B>Clerk/Gem Master: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>0- level Gemcutter/Clerk, Ulon Vassel, LG</B></I></div> <div> <B>  Total Costs: 1,250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems </B></div> <div> <B>  Stable Gems:</B> 12,000</div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems:</B> 10,800 (up 20% from 9,000 base inventory)</div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic</B><B>: </B></div> <div> <B>  Scrolls: </B>9,900 (down 100 gp)</div> <div> <B>Days open per ten day week</B>: 8 (was 6, this increases profit by about 100 gp per day on average)</div> <div> <B>Days Since Last Turn: 3</B></div> <div> <B>  </B><B>First three days of the week. Store open all days. </B></div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems are at +20%!</B></div> <bR> <div> <I><B>  </B></I>Novid waited for the new letter from Waterdeep, passing the time training his young apprentice. Ramel had learned a couple of cantrips now, and Novid thought it might be time to continue his lessons to a greater level. He was suprised at how fast the lad was learning. Herus of Candlekeep had been right to suspect that the boy was a fast learner in the ways of illusion.</div> <div>   Business seemed normal. The rare gems that Novid had purchased were paying off nicely indeed. His new gemcutter was as skilled as he was, as well.</div> <div>   Still, Novid had purchased some books on metal working and metal crafting. The art was much diffrent from his regular work, and he might have to build a seperate area for making metal items. Still, the work might pay off. Items already crafted, as opposed to just the gems themselves, were worth much more. He began to look into costs of such equipment.</div> <div>   Finally, after some time, Novid heard the familiar knock, a five-time rap, that came along with the messenger boy. It was suprising to see that two letters had come today. Novid took the first letter and read it carefully:</div> <bR> <div> <I>Novid Copperleaf of Novid's Gems:</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>  We do regret that you did not wish to participate in the proposition of the position of Royal Gemcutter. Upon closer examination of the evidence, we have decided that the best suited for the job would be Belor of Belor's Baubbles. He is a fine gemcutter and as you have stated, has much more experience with the trade. </I></div> <div> <I>  As Waterdeep business has more than one race as part of it's trade, we expect you will use discresion in the matters that have been discussed earlier. </I></div> <div> <I>  Again, thank you for your time and attention to this matter. With this letter, we consider the matter closed.</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>The Lords of Waterdeep</I></div> <bR> <div>   Well, Novid thought, that will teach Nivas an important lesson...</div> <bR> <div> The second letter was wrapped as usual from Blackstaff, and Novid opened it as well:</div> <bR> <div> <I>Novid,</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>  I will be by later in the week to return your staff. It appears that the staff is quite powerful, but not unique. I will not go into further detail in this letter, in case it falls into other hands, but I did want to tell you that the information you sought has been uncovered.</I></div> <div> <I>  As usual, there is only a half charge for the identify spell due to your guild membership. </I></div> <bR> <div> <I>Blackstaff</I></div> <bR> <div> DM: Will Novid take any other action or will he noe continue business as usal?</div> <div> ------------------------------------------------------</div> <bR> <div> EXP: 500, + 300 (DM response time) = 800</div> <div> (Novid will continue business as usual. Best to let things quiet back down before dealing with Nivas. Novid sent a quick note of congratulations to Belor, and waiting to see if Nivas would react to not getting the position. )</div> <div> <B>Novid Copperleaf</B>:</div> <div> <B>Wealth</B>: 90,954 gp </div> <div> <B>Reputation </B>+2.5 </div> <div> <B>Clout</B>+3 (refusing to take such a highy respected position gives Novid the reputation of being "good enough" to refuse it)</div> <div> <B>Training: </B>+0 (His student is learning at normal level)</div> <bR> <div> <B>Novid's Gems (shop)</B></div> <div> <B>Profit Per Week:</B> <B>96.5 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Incoming gold from sales</B><B>: +1200 gp per week average</B></div> <div> <B>Costs</B><B>:</B></div> <div> <B>  Food: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Clothing: 12 gp per month (was 200 gp per week (x100 of average rep/clout; spending more or less affects both)</B></div> <div> <B>  Magical Supplies: 400 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Training Supplies (Ramel): 500 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Other expenses: 100 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>  Guard: 2 gp per month (double the normal rate)</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>2nd level fighter Manter Silversword, LG</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>  </B></I><B>Clerk/Gem Master: 50 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>    </B><I><B>0- level Gemcutter/Clerk, Ulon Vassel, LG</B></I></div> <div> <B>  Total Costs: 1,250 gp per week</B></div> <div> <B>Inventory, Gems </B></div> <div> <B>  Stable Gems:</B> 12,000</div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems:</B> 10,800 (up 20% from 9,000 base inventory)</div> <div> <B>Inventory, Magic</B><B>: </B></div> <div> <B>  Scrolls: </B>9,900 (down 100 gp)</div> <div> <B>Days open per ten day week</B>: 8 (was 6, this increases profit by about 100 gp per day on average)</div> <div> <B>Days Since Last Turn: 3</B></div> <div> <B>  </B><B>Day 4-5 of the ten-day week. Store open all days. </B></div> <div> <B>  Unstable Gems are at +20%!</B></div> <bR> <div>   Novid relxed for the next couple of days, and recieved a letter from Belor, thanking him for the letter and including the 2,500 gold he had promised. Novid accepted the money. After all, he had kept his part of the bargin, and with a little work for the city Belor would make the money back in no time. </div> <div>   -----------------------</div> <bR> <div>   Novid awoke with suprise, but did not move. He did not require much sleep, and his inhanced perception had made him aware of the current situation. Someone was in his room! Looking about in suprise, he noticed a single figure approaching him in unbeleivible silence. The figure had obviously not noticed that Novid had come from his sleep. </div> <div>   It was dark, but Novid could make out that the creeping being was about the average size of a human male, and was dressed in black. He held something in his hands. He took another step closer to Novid...</div> <bR> <div> Novid did not want to take a chance on this creature's intentions. Novid thought quickly......defense would come first. A simple spell would be best, since he was still groggy and had to make sure the spell worked.. Novid leapt up and uttered "mirror" while making a gesture. Suddenly there were several images of Novid, each identical in every way . </div> <div> (Player Note to DM: Novid casts mirror image, just so we are all clear). </div> <div> Novid then summoned a chromatic orb, a spell of only the first level of mastery. But when used by an illusionist of Novid's power, the spell was deadly indeed. The orb glowed and scintillated in Novid's hand. "State your intentions intruder. What sort of vagabond are you that would knowingly enter my chambers? I will give you a chance to explain yourself . If your explanation pleases me I may let you live to see the morn." Novid had no intention of killing the man, but no need to let him know that. After all, there were still many enemies he had made over the years, and many who would kill to gain the Kaelith Stone or the Fabled Jewel of Alexitharr. But still, Novid would not kill the man unless he was forced to.</div> <div> <I><B>---------------------------------------------------------</B></I></div> <div>   The light of the Chomatic orb struck the features of the creature who had entered the chamber. The orb made it difficult to tell the color of the features of the being, as it constantly shifted from blue to yellow, to red, etc., but Novid was almost sure the being was green in hue. With it's snout-like nose, and crooked teeth, Novid was certain he was face-to-face with a half-orc. The creatures were not uncommon, and they all looked very diffrent from each other. Still, there were tell tale signs, such as the human-like posture and hands this half-orc possessed. He was dressed in black leather and held a large dagger. </div> <div>   How had a half-orc passed by Novid's securities? He wore leather armor, meaning he was not a mage, or a mage who wanted to risk miscasting spells when the armor he wore interfered with spellcasting. </div> <div>   "My name is not important," the ugly creature hissed. "I bring you a gift from one who does not appreciate your meddling!" With that, the half-orc attacked. </div> <div>   A <I>Chomatic Orb </I>could be used in anumber of ways. Novid could attempt to turn his foe to stone, or even kill him. However, he decided to use a lesser effect, one that would cause paralasis. He then could cast other spells to keep the victim captured, and interrogate this would-be assassian. </div> <div>   Novid released the <I>Orb</I>, throwing it at the subject. His aim was much better than it used to be, and the orb soared through the air, flashing many-colored lights across the room, directly at his opponent.</div> <div>   To his suprise, the rouge did not attempt to dodge the <I>Orb</I>. Instead, it came close to the orc, but then it simply vanished, only a small distance before him, dispelled by some type of magic.</div> <div>   Novid was not the most powerful mage in the realms, ut a simple Dispel magic would be unlikely to cause his spell to be disrupted unless cast by another powerful mage with more experience. The orc did not seem to have to try to dispel the magic. With his knowledge of the Art, Novid guessed he was dealing with a protection spell, most likely a <I>Minor Globe of Invulerability, </I>which stopped all low-level spells, even those cast by an experienced mage, from entering the area of the spell. Being that the subject he was attacking was not a mage, he also assumed that the spell was centered on him either before he came into the room, or that he wore an object that gave him the power to use the spell. As most assassians worked alone (or at least the smart ones), Novid assumed that the half-orc wore a ring or a necklace that gave him such a power, although the item could be nearly anything. Someone really wanted to hurt Novid to have supplied the half-orc with such items.</div> <div>   The half-orc thre his dagger, which managed to strike one of Novid's doubles right between the eyes, causing it to disappear. He pulled out two more daggers from his bandolier.</div> <div>   The situation was not going according to plan at all...</div> <bR> <bR> <div> Novid's eyes opened wide when he saw the chromatic orb dissipate. Usually a creature hit by the spell did not even have a chance to resist its magic because novid's skill level was so high. He had seriously underestimated this foe. First the assassin had somehow managed to penetrate his defenses and enter his room undetected, now this. Novid cursed to himself for relying on a spell of the first level of mastery to deal with the intruder. It was an apprentice mistake. It was time to turn the tables. Novid was wary to try another spell, who knew what other protections or charms against spells or illusions the creature had. </div> <div> Novid again thought of another spell he would be able to cast quickly before the assassin had time to attack him. It was time to get help. This assassin would pay with his life.... after all, Novid had given him a chance to yield. Novid stepped into the corner of the room and faded into the shadows themselves.........the assassin would be unable to attack if Novid was not there. Novid muttered a command , and with a quick gesture the shadows themselves engulfed him. Novid was disoriented, but only for a moment. He had been to the plane of shadows many times. Novid ran quickly in the darkness, not because he was scared , but because time was of the essence. Each step here was many times that in the Prime Material Plane. Novid reappeared in the shadows inside Inamsu Goldwind's room at the Temple of Tyr. " Awake Inamsu!!! To Arms! There is an intruder at my shop!! I will need your clerical powers to speak with his corpse after I finish him to find out who has sent this foul assassin in the night." Novid then reached out his hand to touch Inamsu and bring him back to the plane of shadows with him............ </div> <div> Player Note to DM. Novid casts a one-segment spell Shadow Walk.</div> <div> -----------------------</div> <div> EXP: 2000</div> <bR> <div> As stated in a previous e-mail:</div> <div> From Waterdeep:</div> <div> It is 360 miles to Llorkth (by road) - 7.5 days travel on normal horseback</div> <bR> <div> The Shadow Walk spell states tat a character can travel seven miles per turn (2 seconds or so in my game), so to reach Llorkth and travel back to Waterdeep by use of the Shadow Walk spell would require about 3 minutes. Add another minute to get Inamsu's attention and get him to the Shadow Walk. Novid is gone about 4 minutes. </div> <bR> <div>   Kalak was laughing to himself. The foolish mage had done excatly what his employer had told him he would do - cast a minor spell of some type, underestimating his foe. Of course, that was the same thing that so many of Kalak's victims did. </div> <div>   It did suprise the half-orc to see the wizard seperate himself into many "selves" - he had forgotten that the "mark" was an illusionist, and had been ready to leave. Remembering the information, however, he had begun to eliminate the false Novids one by one with blinding speed. A couple of daggers, a few darts, and the images all disappeared rather quickly. What suprised the half-orc after this was that the mage was nowhere to be found. </div> <div>   This was not good by any means. The mage was not invisible (Kalak was carrying a spell upon him that would allow him to see the wizard in such a case), which meant that he either had run away (doubtful), gone for help (very possible, the "mark" had close, powerful friends), or had powers that Kalak was not aware of. In any case, the odds of survival were getting worse. Mask must have been angry with him.*</div> <div>   Well, not every attempt at an assassination was successful. It was time to leave. Some might call quitting the game at such a time foolish, but Kalak had no wish to face down a mage with a few protective spells. No doubt the illusionist had already identified them and was ready to turn him into a rot grub or the like. Not to mention that the town guard was coming back in about 4 minutes, and by this time the unexpected noise would have caused the other persons in the shop-home to have awakened. The guard downstairs would be reaching the room in about 45 seconds. Still, long enough to make a hasty exit from the room and into the safety of the night. </div> <div>   Kalak's clawed hand grabbed the edge of the window sill, and he moved over to the edge and down his rope to the street below. A moment's time to safety. The mage had taken too long to do whatever it was he was doing. His mistake.</div> <div>   "Going somewhere?" A voice said from behind. </div> <div>   Kalak whirled around, his hand reflexivly going to his dagger. His hand never reached his weapon. he had only time enough to see a metalic object flash before his eyes. At first he thought he had been stabbed in the face, but he quickly realized, in a daze, that he had been struck by the "soft" end of a weapon, possibly a club or pommel. Funny that he felt no pain for the moment he remained concious.</div> <div> -------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   Novid arrived with Inamsu into Novid's sleeping chambers. The assassian was nowhere to be seen. Novid cursed under his breath. The Shadow Walk spell was fast, but not fast enough. He looked out into the night, expecting to see nothing, but was suprised to see his hired help, Manter, heading back to the shop, the would-be mirderer slung over his shoulder like a hunting prize. </div> <div>   Meeting Manter at the door, Novid could see a trickle of blood coming from the limp body. "Is he -"</div> <div>   "No, he's not dead," interrupted Manter. "But he will wish he was when he awakens. I am sorry that I did not see this intruder, Novid. He could have killed you. I don't see how he could have gotten past me. All was quiet. I'm, I just, -"</div> <div>   "That's not important now, Manter. What is important is who this man is and what he wanted with me."</div> <bR> <div>  Inamsu cast a powerful spell, Hammer of Justice. Novid can ask up to 16 quick questions, although the subject is not bound to answer them (besides Manter's sword at his neck). </div> <div>   Inamsu turned suddenly, looking at something Novid could not see. "I must go, I am needed by Tyr for something of dire importance."</div> <div>   Novid thought for a moment. "Here." He took the Jewel of Alexitharr from it's resting place and handed it to Inamsu. "Take the Jewel. Return it when your mission for Tyr is finished. Consider it payment for the help you have given here."</div> <div>   With that, Inamsu called Tyr's name and disappeared in a flash of light. His spell still fuctioned, the illusion of the great hammer still floating above the head of the assassian. Now it was up to Novid to ask some questions he wanted answers to.... </div> <bR> <div> 5th Level</div> <bR> <div> Hammer of Justice (Divination, Illusion/Phantasm)</div> <bR> <div> Sphere:          Divination</div> <div> Range:           5 yards/level</div> <div> Components:      V, S, M</div> <div> Duration:        1 round/level</div> <div> Casting Time:    8</div> <div> Area of Effect:  Special</div> <div> Saving Throw:    None</div> <bR> <div> This improved variant of a detect lie spell creates a glowing illusion</div> <div> of an upright war hammer, which is normally steel-gray in hue, but</div> <div> blazes white when truth is spoken, black when lies are told, and</div> <div> blood-red when true but deceiving phrases are uttered. It cannot he</div> <div> made to lie by any known means.  By the power of Tyr, this spell</div> <div> indicates absolute truth. If a questioned being answers with a lie that</div> <div> the being believes to be the truth, a lie is still indicated by the</div> <div> hammer hue (and vice versa). Questions must relate to things the </div> <div> subject knows or thinks he knows.</div> <bR> <div> The illusionary hammer appears wherever the caster desires (within</div> <div> range), and thereafter moves to maintain the same distance from and</div> <div> orientation to the caster. The spell range refers to both how distant</div> <div> the hammer can initially be from the priest and how far from the hammer</div> <div> any questioned being can be for its truth-indicating ability to</div> <div> function. If someone questioned is out of range, the hammer grows dim,</div> <div> but the spell does not end.  The caster can ask questions of any number</div> <div> of beings one at a time, and the telltale hammer is bright and visible</div> <div> to all.</div> <bR> <div> The hammer cannot be made to disappear before the spell expires even by</div> <div> its caster. The illusory hammer cannot be contacted or disturbed by any</div> <div> known magical or physical attack. Though magical barriers of 6th or</div> <div> greater level can ward it away from a given area, there is no known</div> <div> means of destroying it. Dispel magic has no effect on a hammer of</div> <div> justice. When the spell does end, the hammer goes dark and seems to</div> <div> fall before it fades away entirely.</div> <bR> <div> The material component for the spell is a miniature war hammer</div> <div> fashioned from diamond, obsidian, ivory, glass, or another pure,</div> <div> single-hued, black, white, or red, nonliving substance (cost varies</div> <div> with materials, but average is 25 gp).</div> <div> -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> Novid glanced at the assassin. He thought the days of assassins creeping in the night were over. Perhaps the recent politics involving the City Gemcutter had affected some more then others, but to drive a man to murder? First things first. The assassin had surprised Novid by resisting a spell, a mistake on Novid's part. Novid cast detect magic, and removed any magical items from the assassin. Then Novid cast dispel magic to dispel any enchantments upon the assassin. Novid muttered under his breath and cast a cantrip, causing a loud BANG next to the semiconsious assassin's ears. That would make sure he was paying attention. </div> <div> "You have entered my house univited at night with the obvious intentions of doing me harm. I gave you a chance to reconsider your actions before it was too late, something I would not have done in my younger and more brash years. But instead a poisoned dagger was your reply. I am not the sort to be easily angered, but you have managed to do it. My companion Inamsu has cast a spell so that I can tell if you are lying or not. You will not be able to fool Tyr himself, no matter how much of a bluffer and talespinner you are. Your answers will determine if I turn you over to the town guards for trial or whether or not I send your remains to your next of kin, even though it is doubtful they would claim them. Think wisely before you answer. We shall start with a few simple ones. What is your name and who sent you??</div> <div> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div> <div>   The magical hammer created by the power of Tyr floated next to Novid. He glanced at it's form, created by the energy that filled Inamsu, energy given to him through his deity. It was odd to Novid that Inamsu never needed to open a book to study his magic. His faith in his god and his willpower caused the magic to form. Novid sometimes wondered about having faith in something so strong. It must be a comfortable feeling.</div> <div>   The assassian was obviously not anxious to answer, but he did not seem to be the kind to fail to realize a sticky position. He began with what Novid would have expected from a rouge type: a counter offer.</div> <div>   "Mighty Novid, I am an assassian, hired by someone to kill you, obviously. My name is Kalak." Novid noticed as the assassian spoke that the hammer glowed white as truth was spoken. The assassian was visibly shaken by this, probably wondering if he were about to be struck down by some holy might. </div> <div>   "Please, you have beaten me, and I beg for your mercy. I am simply a tool for one who would wish you dead. If it were not me who had come there would have been another. You know this from your adventures!"</div> <div>   "I can offer you this, which most of my brothers would not. I will tell you evrything, and not attempt to hide anything from you or tell untruths, for you word that you will not turn me over to the town guard, but allow me to leave here." The hammer still glowed brightly, covered in the white light that indicated the rouge was still telling the truth.</div> <div>   The assassian seemed to be making some type of decision. He was thinking hard, as if he knew his next words were very important. Novid recognized in that look the face of someone that was making a decision that would affect the rest of their life, when a man (or elf, or half-orc) makes a decision that there is no going back from. There was no word for it in the human tounge, but elves called the expression (which they recognized more often on expressions than humans) R'taol, meaning roughly "deciding on a path".</div> <div>   Novid was suprised when the assassian spoke his next words, and the hammer still glowed with the bright aura of honesty. "If you spare me, I will also never kill again."</div> <bR> <div> There is 29 rounds left on the spell</div> <div> Novid's response?</div> <bR> <div> Scott</div> <div> ------------------------------------------------------</div> <div> Novid stared at the assassin. "Well, your offer is indeed interesting and certainly not what I expected. But I know that you cannot deceive the power of Tyr, so you speak the truth. I will accept your offer, as opposed to throwing you in the city dungeon for a few months and then letting you out to no doubt kill again." </div> <div> "Start from the beginning and tell me what has brought you to my doorstep this night. But I swear to you that if I catch you lying you will not need to vow never to kill again for I shall see to that myself. Speak the truth and I give you my word as Novid Copperleaf, member of the Company of the Soaring Blade , that you shall go free but may never return to Waterdeep again."</div> <div> (Player note to DM. How can I handle this scenario? If the assassin merely starts telling a story as opposed to me asking specific questions, could he lie? The way I am interpreting the scenario so far is that the spell would activate if the assassin was telling a lie. For example, since the assassin made a voluntary vow as opposed to me asking him a specific question, could he lie? The spell is subject to DM interpretation, so I just wanna make sure we understand the spell the same way as opposed to me getting tripped up on a technicality and the guy lying his ass off because he was not actually responding to a specific question. As long as we are playing it where basically as far as I know I will be able to tell if he lies while the spell is in effect, then just start the story up and we will go from there. Sorry about the long clarification)------</div> <div> -----------------------------------------------------</div> <div> "I was in Luskan, north of here, visiting some, er, friends-"</div> <bR> <div>   The hammer's color faded to a deep black. The assassian look suprised, but not <I>very </I>suprised.</div> <bR> <div> "Er, that is, some associates of mine," continued the would-be killer as the hammer changed to white again and he continued, "and I was contacted by a messenger from Waterdeep that I should travel there and meet a man at midnight on a certain night, and that the man would make it worth my while. He included in the message a fine ring worth about a thousand gold! As you might guess, I was interested, and left my business north to meet with this man here in Waterdeep. He was where he said he would be, but disguised himself with a mask and I could not see his face. He offered me 50,000 gold to kill you. Obviously, this man may have only had 1000 gold to spend on a ring. There was no proof that he has 50,000 gold! So, I asked for proof that he had such wealth. With that, he produced a handfull of gems, easily worth the sum he offered."</div> <div>   "I was going to take the gems there from the man, kill him, and be done with it, but as I moved toward my poison needle hidden in my glove, I noticed that the man had a guard. Oh, he didn't think I noticed, but there was a moon elf with a scar beneath his right eye in the seat a few booths down from us that was watching us a little too closely. You learn to see these things after a while."</div> <div>   Although the assassian did not know it, the hammer of tyr that Inamsu had created detected the truth, even if the speaker did not know that he might be lying. But the hammer stayed white as snow, telling that the assassian was right. the moon elf was the employer's bodyguard.</div> <div>   "So instead, I accepted, and came here tonight to kill you in your sleep with a touch of the old poison needle. That is how I came to be here."</div> <bR> <div> DM: Any more questions from Novid? If not, what will his next action be?</div> <bR> <div> "Well we may be able to solve this mystery yet. Do you have any idea who your employer is? Surely you did some checking on your own before accepting a job, since accepting a contract to assassinate someone is a crime in itself. Also tell me exactly what you were to do once the assassination was complete and how you were going to collect your reward???</div> <bR> <div> "I do not know who my employer is. I was assured by my "job finder" that the man was a secure coinpurse. We work this way so if I am captured I <I>won't </I>know my employer's identity. Once the job was complete, my finder will send a scout, someone I don't even know, to check the place and the local news about the city to make sure you are dead. When this happens, the employer will pay the finder and the finder will pay me after making his cut. This way I never know who the employer is. Actualy, I was never supposed to meet him face to, er, mask, but he insisted on seeing the face that would kill you."</div> <bR> <div> DM: Your turn...</div> <div>  </div> <div> Novid thought to himself, lets play this scene out and see what else we can learn."Kalak, do you still want to earn your 50,000 gold pieces? If so, you must help me a little further so I can learn who it is that wants me dead. For if I simply let you go , then your employer will no doubt hire someone else to finish the task. So we will pretend that you have succeeded and see what else we can learn. That way you will earn your 50,000 gold pieces and be able to retire or change occupations without worrying where your next meal will come from. What say you, Kalak, will you help me see this through????" </div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="496" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 458 WIDTH="484"><div> "For 50,000 gold I would help a dragon with something caught in his throat, Novid." Kalak joked. "Very well, then." </div> <div> --------------------------------- </div> <bR> <div> The following morning the shop opened a little late. Novid decided it best not to have anyone find a dead body. After all, if the news were avalible anywhere that he was "dead", then the scout Kalak mentioned might not come to his shop, but simply hear the reports and continue on his merry way.  There were a couple of customers who entered the shop, but none of them asked about Novid. However, the next merchant that entered began looking around after a few minutes. "Is Novid in?" He asked.  Ulon answered as short as possible, as he was told. "Nay." "Why not?" asked the merchant. Novid knew now, hidden by illusions from view, that this was the scout. Almost anyone would have asked when he was to return. To ask why someone was out was not only out of place, it was rude as well. A real merchant would not have been so blunt. Ulon did not become flustered at the trick question. "I'm sorry, but he is not avalible. Would you like to purchase something? Most everything is on sale. I.. I mean we, need to clear out most of the inventory this month." "No thank you," returned the merchant. "I have business to attend to elsewhere and I must take my leave. Good day to you." DM: What will Novid do? Is he going to have Kalak follow this man, will he do it, or the both of them? Or do you have something else in mind?</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>