Topics

[[A missive slipped beneath the door of the Scribe's Offices by an angry and large chicken who can't steal any food given the door in her way. Next time she thinks, next time she shall have it.]]

[A missive slipped beneath the door of the Scribe's Offices by an angry and large chicken who can't steal any food given the door in her way. Next time she thinks, next time she shall have it.]

Bashir,

Given his prominent position as Warmaster, this one feels a listing of Rennik Colmes in our history books would be prudent.
I am sure many might agree that at this critical part of our history, he stands as one of the foremost figures of our current era, in this War of Bronze.
In other words, his record needs updating.

Your friend,
Zain al-Saiba

[[Two letters, each delivered by a fat and haughty hen. She takes a piece of food from each sitting Legate, looks down her beak at them, and leaves.]]

[Two letters, each delivered by a fat and haughty hen. She takes a piece of food from each sitting Legate, looks down her beak at them, and leaves.]

Legates Saenus and Shabani,

Though the Tower has raised objections to even placing forward a name for Warmaster, I will be placing mine into contention for the position. Please see the below points:

Technology - I have been feeding the engines of progress for many months now in preparation. Warning of the times of war. I have armed the Legion with Siegecraft, armored our citizens with trinkets and baubles to aid in their ways, and delivered project ideas and ideations to yourselves. Technology will be needed to win this war, and not leave us expended for the Melek or Qa'im to strike.

Reputation - I have at least garnered a well-respected reputation. Be it from my publication of Aspectral Affinity, my work to improve craft, or my free services offered for but the dust from the prisms used. My recent death and renewal, while jarring, is at least testament that even death cannot prevent me from defending Ephia's Well in her time of need.

Vision - War requires many viewpoints. That of a frontline combatant. That of a tactical game-player. That of an eagle-eyed observer. I have been on raids to the Thousand Clans, I have inspected how their weapons impacted their victims. I have been injured within their forts myself. Many eyes are needed, and I would not turn away those with experience to aid in the war effort. It is a solid foundation that supports a home, and it can only be solidified when all facets work in tandem and rely on each other.

I would humbly implore for a more in-depth interview if you consider me for the position.
Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[A letter, delivered by a fat and haughty hen who steals his salad leaves before leaving.]]

[A letter, delivered by a fat and haughty hen who steals his salad leaves before leaving.]

Bashir,

If it is not too much trouble, for the sake of some upcoming projects, could I request a list of currently registered machinists. Thank you.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[A letter finds its way through the sealed gates of Baz'eel, be it through the ships sailing the canals, or dropped overhead by a chicken in flight. Somehow it makes its destination. A small blacksmiths shop, slowly succumbing to the lack of ringrunning trade. The letter smells of a freshly opened book, and the faint whiff of ozone.]]

[A letter finds its way through the sealed gates of Baz'eel, be it through the ships sailing the canals, or dropped overhead by a chicken in flight. Somehow it makes its destination. A small blacksmiths shop, slowly succumbing to the lack of ringrunning trade. The letter smells of a freshly opened book, and the faint whiff of ozone.]

Baba,

Know that I recall the final words you spoke before my flight.
"For what reason has B'aara have cursed me with such a wretch for a son? A monster incapable of even a smile."

I recall the way you looked at me when Mama died, and I could not find a tear to shed.

I recall the anger in your words when I said I wished to work with fabrics, to place metallurgy second in my skills.

I recall the many ways you think I failed you. Likely moreso now than even then. I have come to understand how you must have felt. My emotions are more open in these recent days, but know now that they ache with the pain you had caused me in return. This letter is not one to open old wounds, though I expect in some capacity it will.

Recently I died. I stood before the Gates to paradise, cradled in the Martyr's embrace. It was only through divine miracle that I remain alive to write to you. Death's gaze averted to another. A brother martyring himself for a brother, as in the tales of Kalim and Gamil.

My recovery is slow. That again, is not the reason for my writing this, nor is it a clamour for return. I will likely never return to the Jewel. It is no longer my home. My home is here, within the Wellspring of Ephia.

The purpose of this letter is healing. Something I now do after my brush with the other side, and something we both aught do. Some part of me must love you, for you are my Baba, and so I will forgive the misunderstandings we once shared, the words once spoken, and the looks once given. I wash my hands of the past, and look only now to the future. If I do not hear back, it will have at least cleared my own conscience.

Please tell my sisters I think of them. I pray their lives are filled with sweet mercies. That they have happy homes, filled with laughter and joy. It is something I am coming to learn now, joy. Each day I find more of it, and pray you do too.

Your son,
Zain

I know it's been tossed around the Discord for a while that people think rogues should get Weapon Finesse at level 2. Let those sneakers have their fun.

I'd say the Finesse Training of the Fencer (ie allowing them to add dex mod instead of strength to damage) should remain either Fencer exclusive, or be an optional feat that other classes could take if they have Weapon Finesse as a prerequisite.

[[Delivered by the haughtiest hen, on paper freshly conjured and smelling of fresh books and faintly of ozone, comes a missive for the eyes of all current Soldiers and above of the Legion. The hen, haughty and unafraid, scowls while she looks down her beak at all of them, eats Samton's breakfast muffin, and leaves.]]

[Delivered by the haughtiest hen, on paper freshly conjured and smelling of fresh books and faintly of ozone, comes a missive for the eyes of all current Soldiers and above of the Legion. The hen, haughty and unafraid, scowls while she looks down her beak at all of them, eats Samton's breakfast muffin, and leaves.]

Longstanding has been the goodwill between our members. Soldier Keladon, Sergeant Ashworth, Sergeant Reyer, and Sergeant Lightdew each know well my workings. Though not beloved by the Sultan, long may he reign, we of the Tower will continue to support his men and women on the frontlines. To that effect, please see the attached list. If blueprints or bundles can be provided, crafts can be made. Please inform if you need anything.

Nadiri Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Astronomers of Q'tolip

[Following the introductory letter is the following list.]

~~~~~

Tool Blueprints:

Brewing Cauldron - Lightweight
Bedroll - Lightweight
Climbing Claw - Lightweight
Fishing Rod - Lightweight
Fishing Rod - Advanced
Shovel - Lightweight
Shovel - Mining Variety
Rioting Pitchfork
Gardening Rake

~~~~~

Throwing Blueprint:

Flashpowder
Alchemist's Fire
Thunderstone
Oil Bottle
Tanglefoot Bag
Stancebreach
Sparks of Revelation
Caltrops
Paintbomb
Choking Powder
Caltrops

Advanced Grenades:

Acid Bomb
Vanishing Smoke
Wall of Knives
Fire Bomb
Magic Disruptor

~~~~~

Missile Blueprint:

Grapple Gun - Lightweight
Sniper Crossbow
Explosive Arrows/Sparking Arrows
Scintillating Sling Bullets/Perfumed Sling Bullets
Booming Bolts
Flintlock Pistol
Lightning Rifle

~~~~~

Siege Blueprints:

Catapult Assembly Pack
Catapult Ammuniton - Normal/Shrapnel
Repeating Ballista Assembly Pack
Repeating Ballista Bolts

~~~~~

Uncommon Material Bundles:

Roguish Neckgear
Advanced Headgear
Greater Tinkerers Cloak
Makeshift Blowtorch
Oil Bomb
Lock Solvent
Greater Spring Boots
Archery Target Assembly Pack
Flamethrower
Paralysing Dagger
Trap Disarming Hammer

~~~~~

Primative Materials:

Carnivorous Crytal
Paralysing Vines

~~~~~

Various non-blueprinted or bundled items, and some not listed as not deemed the more appropriate. Please bring material bundles and blueprints to Nadiri al-Saiba. That is all.

[[A parcel, plain of wrapping and lightweight to the touch, and a letter smelling of fresh parchment are delivered to the Temple of Izdu bearing the recipients name: Marcellus Saenus.]]

[A parcel, plain of wrapping and lightweight to the touch, and a letter smelling of fresh parchment are delivered to the Temple of Izdu bearing the recipients name: Marcellus Saenus.]

Within the Parcel:
A gossamer silk banner in a midnight blue, upon which is emblazoned a shining moon. In the light of the moon, flies a soaring heron silhouetted in black. The piece is refined, elegant, and bears the mark of a talented craftsman.

[Zain al-Saiba's Tailoring skills are Heroic.]



The Letter:
The letter is as blunt as an anvil. There is no flowery language, no melodic poems, no words of greeting, it simply reads;
"This is my submission. Nadiri Zain al-Saiba."

As the title says but justification to follow. I think taking a Skill Focus in a skill that isn't a class skill should make it a class skill for that character. The name 'Skill Focus' implies that character has an interest in learning that skill, and by adding it to their class skills this can be better reflected through future levelling. Taking a skill focus is a feat so it's already an investment for the character.

The reasoning behind this comes mostly from looking at Oath of the Shepherd Paladins, who are expected to not harm animals, but have no real way to calm down hostile animals because AE is Ranger/Druid/Shifter only. This would also allow pure fighters to use wands if they took Skill Focus: UMD, so they wouldn't have to do a wizard or sorcerer level drop. I expect it could also lead to more interesting builds, like spellswords taking SF: Discipline, or Rangers who want to focus on the natural magics taking SF: Spellcraft. Either way, it adds interesting ways for players to add new flavour to their class. 

[[A letter delivered to each Legate from the beak of the Well's fattest hen. She looks at each Legate with disdain and disbelief, that a mere mortal might try to challenge her authority in any matters.]]

[A letter delivered to each Legate from the beak of the Well's fattest hen. She looks at each Legate with disdain and disbelief, that a mere mortal might try to challenge her authority in any matters.]

Legates,

Tomorrow the Tower will hold our debate. You will attend. You should know the subject matter, but if not you will be informed before the debate commences. Given the delicate content, you may bring your scribes but none other.
That is all.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[OOC: Dec 3rd, 9.30pm GMT]

[[The smell of a freshly opened book on parchment recently conjured. Delivered to the Fourth Legion garrison by a fat and haughty hen. It is with a loud bawk that she drops the letter at the feet of the intended recipient; Arnock Reyer.]]

[The smell of a freshly opened book on parchment recently conjured. Delivered to the Fourth Legion garrison by a fat and haughty hen. It is with a loud bawk that she drops the letter at the feet of the intended recipient; Arnock Reyer.]

Soldier Reyer,

It has taken many months of experimentation, but I believe I may have something of interest for yourself. Recent developments in the explosives field have allowed for the creation of arrows containing explosive payloads. Currently I have only been able to affix standard flaming payloads, not good for hoards of orcs, but potentially for Sibilants or other monstrosities of the Great Ash Desert.

The process is slow, with only three arrows created per batch, and expensive with reagents costing roughly eighty dinar per three arrows, but are easily replicable with little chance of failure.
If such interests, please contact for future construction. That is all.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

Currently dancing lights only lasts for 1 minute by design. Would it be possible to do 1 minute per level? Or a longer period like 5-10 minutes? I like using them as mood lighting, but given the short duration it means having to recast multiple times.

[[Freshly conjured parchment, smelling of a new book just opened. The penmanship that of someone accustomed to writing, and delivered by the haughtiest and most well-fed hen in the Well. The message within is relatively blunt and to the point, to counteract the pageantry of the delivery.]]

[Freshly conjured parchment, smelling of a new book just opened. The penmanship that of someone accustomed to writing, and delivered by the haughtiest and most well-fed hen in the Well. The message within is relatively blunt and to the point, to counteract the pageantry of the delivery.]

Legates,

After review with Soldier Lawcleaver, I request a meeting with you both to make suggested amendments to some laws we feel need scope for action. Specifically the law of Heretical Worship which currently covers the Ninth Spoke, the necromantic cabal of Baharu, and the Pra'raji doctrines. Recent occultist literature, proclaiming a faith known as the 'Sacrament of Severence' which preaches anti-Wheel doctrine has been appearing in the Well and the Fourth Legion is requesting amendment to the Heretical Worship law to include this type of occultism or faiths that preach anti-Wheel doctrine, so that these cultists might not infect the Mother's Well.

Please write to confirm a time that we might have this discussion. That is all.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[A formal request written on freshly conjured paper, smelling of a new book opened for the first time. It is delivered by quite possibly the haughtiest looking hen; fat and pampered beyond belief. Despite the pageantry of the writing materials, and the messenger, the contents are remarkably blunt.]]

[A formal request written on freshly conjured paper, smelling of a new book opened for the first time. It is delivered by quite possibly the haughtiest looking hen; fat and pampered beyond belief. Despite the pageantry of the writing materials, and the messenger, the contents are remarkably blunt.]

Sergeant Mahmet,

I have been instructed by Sergeant Ludovich and Sergeant Adaken to make this requisition through these official channels.
Some months prior, the Tower of Q'tolip lent the esteemed Fourth Legion two Geiger Counters to monitor and track meteoric radiation. The Tower now requests the return of these devices. In the event they have been lost, damaged, or destroyed, we will be asking for equivalent compensation. That is all.

Zain al-Saiba,
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[Letters are sent to the prominent members of the Clergy of B'aara. They are delivered by a fat hen, and written on freshly conjured parchment. It smells of a freshly opened book.]]

[Letters are sent to the prominent members of the Clergy of B'aara. They are delivered by a fat hen, and written on freshly conjured parchment. It smells of a freshly opened book.]

Dear Esteemed members of the Mother's Clergy & Inquisition,

Some nights hence I had my life threatened by a claimed member of the Faith of our most revered Mother; one 'Amadeus Bucket'.

The words he spoke were thus; "Listen to me you little shit. I'm onto you. One false move and you'll be the first I take care of." While they were a whispered threat, he did approach me in full view of both an Apothar of the Tower, and a Sister of the Sisterhood, who were immediately informed of these words. The man Bucket then acted deceitfully, claiming he had not said them.

Last night, he attempted to accost me once more, going so far as to come to the Tower and ring our bell until I answered him. He claimed my informing the Fourth Legion of his transgressions was 'too far' and that his threat has been 'a joke' in view of Zenithar Abael, proving his threat had indeed happened and he had said the words he was accused of saying. Personally, a threat against my life is a type of joke that is not amusing, and given he is a member of your clergy, and after discussion of the events with Lady Nasreen Shabani, she stated I aught bring this matter to your attention.

A note to add, recently libellous pamphlets left by accomplices of the Black Witch Sayyida Shajar have named me a Wyrm Cultist, likely as I had been aiding into the investigation of their nefarious schemes. I have been searched by Soldiers Cavanaugh and Reyer, and determined to have no markings to indicate such. The Ninth Spoke is a wretched thing, and its association with my person brings nothing but displeasure.

I ask this man Bucket is reigned in if it is within your capability, or else I will have to engage in legal proceedings for stalking, harassment, and threat of malicious intent.

That is all.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[A letter, on freshly conjured paper with the scent of a freshly opened book, is delivered to the offices of Alejandro Benjazar by a fat and haughty hen. She steps to the office door, glowers at the occupant with the glare of someone who knows how superior they are than the subject they see, and drops the letter. She then returns to the sender.]]

[A letter, on freshly conjured paper with the scent of a freshly opened book, is delivered to the offices of Alejandro Benjazar by a fat and haughty hen. She steps to the office door, glowers at the occupant with the glare of someone who knows how superior they are than the subject they see, and drops the letter. She then returns to the sender.]

Alejandro Benjazar,

My skills at language are rather blunt, however, to attempt to form connection to your sensibilities I have tried to make my writing here more poetic.

You voice reminds of rusted gears,
That screech and screech and hurt my ears,
For never let it be unsaid,
That these are consequences you have bred.

When plunderers steal my peoples bones,
From ancient cities, and ancient homes,
Despite our charity, your gifted Krak,
Your own homes lost to withering Black.

And there within, those dangers linger,
Like a wasp, riled, poised with stinger,
Unleashed upon our plains of sand,
By careless, wayward, clumsy hand.

I will not forget the look in his eyes,
As upon his tongue did dance your lies,
How you hovered, behind, the back of room,
His oathsworn vow, coated in gloom.

I hope you see them when you sleep,
And that to you no life is cheap,
The Scholar slain at the Pilgrim's toes,
To cover up your wayward woes.

I find no comfort in your inclusion,
For you are wrought with self-delusion,
That these are your self-proclaimed sands to pluck,
I must reply, off you fuck.

I pray you have enjoyed my poetry. Now I will be blunt. I do not like you, you inspire no comfort, and each time you speak I hear your lies on Student Card's tongue. Despite that, we are in a time of crisis, and the encroachment of Qa'im, the Thousand Clans, the Sibilant Remnants, and other insidious threats mean we as members of the Accord should work together. As such I will place my personal revulsion for you aside.
 
Now, it is a simple interview to renew your license, because the records we were given are half-complete. Maddicus kept none, thus we have no way of verifying whether licenses are forged. If passing an interview and proving yourself capable of handling the relics of the people of the Ash Desert is too much for a member of your esteemed College, I will happily advise in other specialisations you may wish to take as hobbies.

That is all.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

 

[[Fresh parchment, freshly conjured. Scented like new books.]]

[Fresh parchment, freshly conjured. Scented like new books.]

Apothar Mevura,

I have been thinking on your quandry posed yestereve; which Nadiri to Voice. I have come to a conclusion, one that befits our standing as an institution of learning and academic dispute.

Each proposed Nadiri aught make a proposal as to why they should be the one to become Voiced, and a debate held, with yourself, Apothar Azimi, and Apothar Stern serving as adjudicators to the verdict. It is logical that given we have access to a debate hall, that is to be used.

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[The paper is clean and fresh, smelling of a newly opened book. To someone of Estellise's magical capabilities, she might detect it was conjured with magic.]]

[The paper is clean and fresh, smelling of a newly opened book. To someone of Estellise's magical capabilities, she might detect it was conjured with magic.]

Mistress,

Some weeks ago you tasked me to create a grappling crossbow that was lighter than the standard offered. I humbly apologise it has taken this long, but my experimentations have borne fruit. It resides in the communal chest, weighing roughly four-fifths that the standard might weigh.

If requested, I shall continue to try and refine this process, it shall likely take additional time.

Your apprentice,

Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

[[The paper is pressed and new, scented like a freshly opened book. Not a single smudge of the ink.]]

[The paper is pressed and new, scented like a freshly opened book. Not a single smudge of the ink.]

Bashir,

I have heard of your being assaulted by Recluta Bysjare. I am sure it has brought you discomfort. I shall do my best to aid in alleviating such.

Blueprints have been drafted. I will be purchasing materials soon.

Your friend,

Zain al-Zaiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip

Crafter's Insight currently doesn't give a bonus to engineering.

This was originally brought up in Suggestions (see link below) but given the spell description implies Tinkering/Engineering should be affected.

https://www.efupw.com/forums/index.php?topic=708295.0

[[Fresh parchment, scented like a new book. Blunt and precise lines of inquiry follow.]]

[Fresh parchment, scented like a new book. Blunt and precise lines of inquiry follow.]

To the Honorable Sergeant Sathuul,

I have an inquiry to make. In the City of Baz'eel, the sale of 'Scorch' is illegal, even by those who operate with sufficient permissions to perform the sales of narcotics and other substances of imbibement.

I have recently been offered such substance by a licensed individual. When queried, a scribe present claimed that the substance was permitted for sale under the licensure of the Sublime Garden. I am merely ensuring such is correct. The Well's Law is still new to me.

Humble thanks,
Zain al-Saiba
Nadiri of the Tower of Q'tolip