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[BACKSTORY]

BACKSTORY

Farideh Golbarg was a refugee who sought shelter in the unforgiving desert of Ephia's Well. Her family had been torn apart by marauders during a devastating raid, leaving her orphaned and alone in the harsh desert.

Her early days were marked by wandering alone through the desolation. During those difficult times, her grandmother, in a time now treasured as a cherished memory, shared tales of The Mother, B'aara. Farideh's grandmother imparted the teachings and myths of The Mother, emphasizing the importance of water, purity, and the cleansing of wickedness.

These stories left a profound impact on Farideh, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the significance of water in the arid desert and the need to protect its sanctity. As she sought refuge in Ephia's Well, she carried her grandmother's teachings and the tales of The Mother with her, nurturing her devotion to the faith.

A SHORT WEEK WITHIN THE WELL

She survived the desert, but not the very home of her Mother, Ephia's Well. Before even being able to actually help the Feast of B'aara happen, Farideh fell victim of creatures that she did not know nor understand. Others fell and came back. But for some reason, the heavens did not answer to her pleas.

I had PLANS for her, as usual. I tried playing for the first time a Lawful Good character for a change, but I could not resist and, more than once, I felt like she was actually a Chaotic Crazy Good Lunatic. It was a fun come back to EFU. The server is feeling fresh and the player base/ DMs stand as delightful as I once knew them.

Let's see what other tales come to me next so I can share them with you.

Dear Mister Hu Prak,

I trust this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation for your recent efforts in gathering the community's attention through your creative contest on the animals that best represent Ephia's Well. I for once, learned a lot with you. It was heartening to witness the excitement and participation it generated.

As the Feast of B'aara approaches, I am certain that your ingenuity can play a pivotal role in elevating the upcoming event to new heights. With your demonstrated ability to spark interest and gather support, I have a proposal that could greatly benefit the Feast and our community as a whole.

How about organizing a contest for ideas of activities that could take place during the Feast, just like the one you did, but this time to generate interest in contributing with ideas? This contest would encourage community members to submit their creative ideas for activities and events that can take place during the Feast of B'aara. The top three most imaginative and engaging ideas would have the honour of being integrated into the official festival program. These activities could encompass art, music, games, and more, all celebrating the spirit of B'aara. I believe this initiative will not only make the Feast more memorable but also foster unity and collaboration within our community.

Furthermore, this contest can serve as an opportunity to gather signatures from enthusiastic participants who are eager to support and take part in the upcoming Feast. It may also attract potential sponsors who recognize the value of contributing to such a meaningful event.

Your expertise and passion for community engagement make you the perfect person to lead this endeavour. I am confident that your guidance will ensure its success. If you find this proposal appealing, I would be delighted to assist in any way possible to make it a reality.

Please consider this suggestion, and if you have any questions or require assistance, do not hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make this year's Feast of B'aara truly exceptional.

May B'aara's blessings guide you in your endeavours, and I look forward to your response.

Warm regards,
Farideh Goldbard
Waterbearer of the Weeping Mother

[An eccentric ashfolk, donned in tunics two sizes too large for his small frame, dashes into the Krak des Roses in search of a certain Hu Prak. On this hand, a parchment addressed to Hu Prak.]

Dear Mister Corvo,

As a fellow traveler on this journey through life, I'm sharing a hymn I penned in honor of B'aara, the Weeping Mother. It's a tribute to her grace and the healing embrace she offers to all her children, regardless of their beliefs.

Feel free to listen to these verses in your own time, and remember that the waters of B'aara offer solace to those who seek it. She watches over us all, her tears a source of boundless compassion.

In this shared moment, I hope you find a connection with the faith of the Weeping Mother, and I'm here to answer any questions or engage in discussions you might have.

Wishing you peace and understanding,
Farideh Goldbarg
Waterbearer of the Weeping Mother

[An ashfolk, small but swift, dashes through the bustling Krak des Roses. Clutched in her tiny hands, a rolled-up parchment seems almost comically oversized in her grasp. She zips around market stalls and dodges patrons with impressive agility, on her mission to deliver a letter to Ricardo Corvo.]

Honourable Captain Naelin and Lieutenant Sephidra,

I hope this message finds you well and full of determination as you continue your noble endeavours in overseeing the expeditions and archaeological research within our beloved Ephia's Well. I write to you today with a proposal that I believe would not only further the knowledge of our history and faith but also contribute significantly to the upcoming Feast of B'aara.

Our faith in B'aara is deeply rooted in the sacred places and lore passed down through the generations. These sites, imbued with the presence of The Mother, contain secrets and treasures of immense importance. It is my fervent wish that we organize an expedition to these hallowed grounds, to explore, discover, and unearth that which has long been concealed.

Unveiling the hidden history of our faith would be a priceless contribution to the upcoming Feast of B'aara. The sacred sites hold mysteries and knowledge that could enrich our celebrations, deepen our connection to The Mother, and strengthen our faith even further. I believe that our fellow devotees would be inspired and enlightened by the treasures brought to light, and it would make the feast a truly memorable event.

This endeavour could encompass various sacred sites, from the very heart of Ephia's Well to the farthest reaches of the desert. I trust in your leadership, as the dedicated guardians of our heritage, to organize and oversee this crucial expedition with your well-trained teams.

The potential of this exploration excites me greatly, and I believe it is a testament to our devotion to B'aara. With your skills and dedication, we may unlock the ancient wisdom and blessings hidden within the sands.

Please consider this proposal and its significance to our faith. I eagerly await your response, and I have faith that your wisdom will guide this endeavour.

In devotion to The Mother and anticipation of your collaboration,
Farideh Goldbarg, Waterbearer of the Weeping Mother

[With haste, an ashfolk in crisp white attire bursts into the Torchbearer Hall, nearly stumbling over their own robes, and in a humorous fluster, presents a letter addressed to Captain Naelin and Lieutenant Sephidra.]

Esteemed Exchequer Sol Auk Sol Auk,

I hope this letter finds you well and your pockets even fuller, for I've heard many a whispered tale of your proficiency in coin matters. I must admit my ignorance, for I'm not quite certain what an Exchequer does, but it sounds quite important! If you ever find yourself in my company, I would be most grateful if you could spare a moment to enlighten me on this fine title.

Now, my purpose in writing to you today is twofold. First, the Feast of B'aara approaches, a time when we, the faithful children of the Mother, come together to celebrate her grace. It is also an opportunity to aid those less fortunate. You, being of the Gold League, are often painted as one who cares not for the destitute, but I believe this is a chance to prove such badmouthing wrong. We aim to purchase much-needed beds for the refugees seeking solace and healing at the B'aarat Almshouse in the Tablet. I'm confident that Baetu the Blind, the dedicated priest overseeing the Almshouse, will rejoice at your generosity.

Secondly, I kindly request the Consortium's sponsorship in the form of a special object of your collection to grace as a prize in our humble B'aarat Hymns Contest. We aim to reward the most devout and skilled participant with an adequate reward, making it a day to be remembered for years to come.

I understand that these endeavours may not directly line your own purse, dear Exchequer, but I believe the spirit of unity, compassion, and generosity that the Feast of B'aara embodies aligns perfectly with the values of the Consortium. Your support would not only bring joy to the hearts of many but also reflect the grace of the Mother Herself.

And may I offer one more reason to consider our plea? Word of the Consortium's involvement in the preparations for the Feast would undoubtedly reach the sultan's ears, and we can imagine the delight it would bring him. In these times, a good word from the sultan to the city of Baz'eel might prove quite beneficial to the Consortium's interests and bring back good opportunities of growth for Ephia's Well itself.

May the trade winds carry this request to your ears, and may you find it within your considerable influence to grant us your favour. Your name would be remembered with gratitude and sung in the hymns of B'aara for generations to come.

With hopeful anticipation,
Farideh Golbarg, Waterbearer of the Weeping Mother

[An ashfolk, with their white attire standing out, frantically chases after Consortium merchants, finally thrusting the letter into the hands of one startled trader.]

[Discover the Riches of B'aara's Faith!Unearth the Past, Preserve the Faith]

Discover the Riches of B'aara's Faith!
Unearth the Past, Preserve the Faith

Do you possess sacred relics or objects tied to our good Mother B'aara?
We invite you to be a part of history and contribute to the preservation of our cherished heritage.

We seek
- Ancient scriptures, scrolls, and books
- Iconic symbols or artifacts
- Holy relics and ceremonial tools
- Artistic representations
- Personal stories and testimonies

Your donations will help us preserve the essence of the Mother's teachings, offering solace to Her faithful and enlightening the world.

For inquiries and contributions, please contact Farideh Goldbarg at the Temple of our Mother B'aara.

Join us in protecting the legacy of the Mother and spreading the light of Her faith.

[Thirsty are we!]

Dear Beloved Ones,

In these times of adversity and despair, when life has stripped away our past and present, leaving us with an uncertain future, we extend our loving arms to you, for you are our cherished family.

Just as our good Mother B'aara sought to protect life and bring beauty from desolation, so too do we, her faithful children, reach out to you in your times of need. There's strength in your struggle, and in it, we find the power to carry on.

Thirsty are we!
In the relentless, scorching heat of the unforgiving desert, it is easy to believe that our thirst can be quenched by the bountiful water within Ephia's Well. However, the true thirst that plagues us runs far deeper than the need for water. It is the thirst for purity, for in the depths of the well, suffering, pain, desolation, and abandonment are the norm for the poor and desperate. The loving embrace of our Mother offers a path to quench this profound thirst, where her boundless love provides shelter and hope.

Embrace the teachings of The Mother, for they are a source of strength, a beacon of hope, and a path to salvation. In her loving embrace, you will discover the true treasures of life and find solace in the face of uncertain times.

With open hearts, we welcome you to the loving embrace of The Mother, for you are not alone in your struggles. Just as the Mother wept for her children, I weep for you, longing for your enlightenment.

Your story, my beloved child, is entwined with our Mother's tale of sacrifice and rebirth. As Her tears nurtured the arid desert and gave life to her children, your faith in her grace nurtures your soul, bringing you one step closer to purity.

Yours in Faith and Love,
Farideh Goldbarg

[Pamphlets like these are prominently displayed in the common areas of Ephia's Well, strategically placed where the downtrodden, the impoverished, and the destitute often gather. Sometimes one would find Farideh reading the contents of a pamphlet for the illiterate.]

Mister Amadeus Bucket,

Our encounter left me with questions that weigh heavy on my heart. The tempest of magical assault that you unleashed upon me remains a mystery, a tempest I never provoked nor anticipated. Why, dear sir, did you choose this path of hostility, turning our meeting into a storm of chaos?

I write not to condemn, but to seek understanding. Was there an unspoken grievance or a grievous misunderstanding that led to this unprovoked assault? Your reasons remain obscured, and I long to dispel this shroud of uncertainty.

Wicked actions, like a drop of ink in pristine waters, taint the pure soul gifted to us by the benevolent Mother. Each unkindness, every cruelty, casts ripples that mar the soul's clarity, a reminder that our choices can pollute the very essence of our being.

Let our dialogue be a torch in the darkness, illuminating the shadows of our past. I ask you to share your perspective, to help me comprehend the enigma of our encounter. The teachings of The Mother urge us toward unity and insight, and I implore you to join me in this pursuit.

May The Mother's grace guide us to resolve this mystery and find a path to reconciliation.

Seeking answers,
Farideh Goldbarg.

[An ashen figure, extraordinarily pale, rushes into the Krak des Roses, clutching a parchment destined for an individual by the name of Amadeus Bucket.]

Esteemed Mister Benjazar,

I trust this letter finds you well. I wanted to express my sincere gratitude once again for your gracious assistance in person. The walking staff you offered me at such a reasonable cost has been an invaluable companion during my pilgrimage, and I am truly appreciative of your generosity.

As we discussed during our previous meeting, I am reaching out to provide you with the written transcript of the chant I have composed in honour of the Weeping Mother. I believe this chant embodies the essence of Her grace and the life She brings to our arid lands.

Your willingness to help find a skilled singer or musician to perform this chant during the upcoming festivities is greatly appreciated. I am confident that with your support, we can create a memorable and moving tribute to the Weeping Mother that will resonate with all who attend.

Please find enclosed the written transcript of the chant. If you require any further assistance or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt thanks for your kindness and support of our shared beliefs. I eagerly await your response and look forward to the upcoming festivities.

In Mother's weeping embrace,
Farideh Goldbarg.

[An ashfolk, adorned in the sacred attire of the B'aarat, solemnly makes her way to the Krak of des Roses. Clutched in her weathered hands, she carries a carefully wrapped package, within which lies the primary parchment of a letter.]

Farideh Goldbarg




Chants to the
Weeping Mother


[the journal is a mix of images cut from books and glued over the pages filled with poems, chants and hymns]

Not sure if a bug, but the description of the Cloak of Algae (algae shop)  is the description of a Selune Cloak.

Maybe Trash Island - Tunnels in Trash should be marked as area available to rest

As more underwater areas are being added to the server, maybe we could have the possibility of having special invasive plants seeds related to that theme as well? For instance, Kelp Forest, which would attract Kelp Creeps.

Maybe more rare and special and difficult seeds that would make raise shambling mounds and thornhusks to the area as well.

Also, in the theme of Magma and lava for the spreading of Magma Lizards and Fire Wasps.

And last, but not least, some ooze oriented theme to promote the spread of slimes and ooze, maybe? To slowly corrode rocks and walls with such creatures, making structures of the area to crumble with acid pools and the like?

The Biolumenescent Sappers' description state them as creatures of the Dark Lake, a clear reference of past chapter. Maybe they should be described in a more generic way? As in being fishes that live in the deep, dark waters or something like that.

The Deep Canals Northwest transition is rendered unapproachable due to terrain blocking that do not seem to be intended. More than once I tried to reach them and almost got my character drowned trying.

Hedge Maze

Although it would seem a continuity of the Old Willow Ways, it seems to actually look disconnected and less natural than them, itss lights seeming to lack the aura of mystery that was very nice on the previous area.

It also does not show any druidic knowledge text when you enter in it.

Sheppermine Subterranean

Natural area without the associated bonuses

Climbing areas have no interaction with wildshape

[Madelaine Springs]

Madelaine Springs
Chicken Wizard, Oathbreaker, Pondswoman, Frog Witch, Prospecting Groat Whore, Frog Bitch




Madelaine came to me as a concept of how far could I OOCly shape a character so to manipulate other characters' feelings towards loving and protecting someone that they would otherwise kill on sight. On this she was a success. My problem with her started when I had to shelve Madelaine for some weeks due to real life commitments and then of me losing the track of her initial impulse when I returned. That's when I decided to retire her after a DM quest death.

Her tale was centered around being a young, naive and innocent witch that was lost in many ways, unable to control her own powers. Through her journey she tried to find herself with the lords and ladies of the Peerage Ward, the coin mongrels of Ticker Square, the undeath lovers of the Drips, the disgraced folk of the Pauper Ponds and the beasts of the Mongrelwood.

Madelaine was a sweet pause on my usual crone/ hag portrayal (even if I did not resist and made a hag out of her now and then, or even if I made Miss Cluckgoo randomly stare at people as one of my other witches would so gladly do). She started not actually taking the lead of anything, but shielding herself behind important and prominent people, trying to help with what she could, or at least promising to help.  And promises were things that she could not keep, even if she truly wanted to. In the end, she truly started to devote herself to the Ponds, finally finding some confidence as she decided to take the burden of the unwanted and abandoned of the Ponds and of the Mongrelwoods, starting the well known questioning of the fate of the stillborn and malformed babies left to die or to be hunted after growing up.


Below I leave some screenshots, trying to keep spoilers at a minimum. Maybe on the future I will come back to update with things that I decided to keep secret.

[hide]The First Companions, the First Changes










Inquisitor Cluckgoo?




Who's the "Chicken Wizard?"




Sharing a Secret








A New Ally




Making an Oath




Breaking an Oath






Bone Collectors




Pleasing the Prince of Tehoto




Asking for the Help of Pzatharun






A Friend?




Another Ally?




Prospecting




Big Change

[/hide]


Edit: By popular demand, the loot

[hide]Personal Acquisitions









[hide]The Love of Gods (AKA DMs)


by Howlando


by Akke
[/hide]

Trash Island is marked as no resting area for all classes.

I have noticed that you break from stealth if you attempt to poison food or drinks that are left on the ground.

Wouldn't it be interesting for it not to break or for there be a dex or reflex check to confirm if you are actually good at keeping yourself stealthed while doing it?

I mean, the possibilities of using poisons already challenge a lot our creativity to figure out fair, interesting and instigating solutions, but I guess that a skilled poisoner should not be so easily noticed while dripping a bit of nightshade leaves powder upon someone's else tea, would them?

Currently, when a Knave gets its hood up, their name is changed.

Maybe it would be nice to have wildshifted or polymorphed PCs use the same script/ logic? Turn into a wolf, the name upon their head is wolf, for instance.