Editing Midnight RPG - Chapter 42.453

== Setting ==

::  It is the night following a filling dinner of wild turkey brought down by Eranon's bow, cooked on the spit by Kyle at Lady Ahemia's direction.  The wild bird filled your belly with a lush spice from the southlands for which the Lady legate had given.  This is the night following the minor disputes across dinner, as Lady Ahemia stood up to face Kyuad - challenging him that she WAS in complete control of her mind... NO ONE controlled her!  An argument to which Zal'Kazzir barely had a line to add...  He calmed her for the moment and soon she walked away from the threats put to the grave-digger.  But the outright accusations kept her mind going later that night.

::  THIS is that tale...
::  The moon and stars have grown dim in this time of strange unnatural movements in the night sky.  But the hours wained and Lady Ahemia knew the hour of her faith.  It had been at this time over most of her 28 years that she'd knelt and prayed to the Master in the North.  
[[Image:Ocean view-dsc02558.jpg|thumb]]
::  Just earlier that afternoon she'd found the most beautiful clearing along the glade overlooking the clear coast of the Sea of Pelluria.  A most perfect spot to kneel, pray, clear her mind.  So it was only natural that she found herself wandering off to that point during these hours of the night when the Riding Host slows and grazes in the sky.  This is the Shadow Hour, the time when Legates feel the pulse of power given them by their sworn diety.  However, tonight... Lady Ahemia was not doing as she had every night since her becoming ceremony and though that in and of itself didn't bother her, afterall her love Zal'Kazzir had put the alternative to the Shadow in such a poinient light earlier that afternoon, but something would nag at her mind as she looked to settle thoughts of the day.
::  Kyuad, the corspe-keeper... the Middleman... he... his accusations... his bile spit at her at this evening's dinner was biting and bothersome.  What had he meant that she was under control, that she was on a leash??  And why had Zal not defended her position more?  
[[Image:A Dark Mood, Black Panther.jpg|thumb]]
::  As she set herself on the stone, dropping her silk dress to the crisp new autumn airs to soak in the fresh airs and new night - Ahemia still ruminated over the wizards biting comments.  And with a whisper to her friend and companion, Dahiran the massive black tiger of the Aruunian Jungle slinked back toward camp... almost stalking... the elf... Eranon...
::  Dahiran had made it known to the elf that it was fighting its ever instinct not to tear his throat out, even though the 'insil had freed the beast from the control of a demon just a few days prior...  So his appearance at first, not on "a leash" might have been a bit unnerving however the lure of the great cat's call likely wouldn't be denied.  So too did he sneak down to Kyuad's camp space, growling at Kyle slightly as the Sarcosan-corpse felt the pit of his stomache for the first time in weeks.


::  Assuming both Eranon and Kyuad follow the cat out some 300-400 yards from the rendezvous camp overlooking the Sea, you may approach and hear the following conversation begin.  It is likely that Kyuad might come in following Eranon, but not necessarily...




=== Lady Ahemia, former Legate of the Master in the North ===
[[Image:Ahemia.gif|frame|Lady Ahemia sitting at her prayer spot...]]
::  ''Curious that we find ourselves here so far from home is it not?  It wasn't that long ago that I slept in a warm goose feather bed in a well-kept fortress of the Priest of Shadow.  True enough, the Vile did disgust my instincts as both a woman and sister of the Order... but his liege did not offend me to the point of discontent.''  
::  ''It was there in the Black Nail that I made several long friends...  Those friends that I now will never again be able to speak with.  On the whim of love, some would taunt as lust, I found my way out of the Druid Swamps.  Even now I do not regret the decision.  Rarely do I regret... But I do wonder...  I do consider the new challenges that I've made in life.  They all seemed so clear before and even with the confusion and distress of making my way back into the Order apart from the Vile's governess I knew where my faith laid...  But now... now I am a little girl lost again as I was when Dahiran was but my protector and not my watchdog.''  Ahemia says as she strokes the great tiger that keeps her naked body warm in the crisp chill of the new autumn air...  ''I was 13 when my father bartered for my induction into the temples of Theros Obsidia...  I was so happy... I'd made him proud.  My da' had made tithe of seven and ten full head of the finest Sarcosan bred warhorse - bound and bred for the possession of Astirax. ... I hadn't known the nature of the Astirax Demons prior, had I known you wouldn't have been given over my Dahiran... I promise you that...''  she says stroking the ears across and up into the air of the great cat.  

::  ''...so I wonder you see... I wonder what it is that the wizard-crypt-keeper spoke of at me earlier over dinner... I've had time to calm my nerves and angst at his notion that I am not of my own woman.  You see, I pride myself on this.  I promised that I would never give myself over fully as I had unknowingly given my Dahiran to the Shadow's spy... the Astirax called Tannus.  The one YOU, Eranon, killed to set my friend free.''  Ahemia pulls the silken shawl over her naked shoulder and spins to sit up on the rock.  She pulls a leaf from her purse and rolls it into a small long pipe...  saying a word or two asking the Shadow for light, the weed sears to a cherry glow and burns as her plush lips puff on the relaxing weed.  She offers the pipe to Eranon and then motioning to Kyuad as if apologizing for her outburst earlier as she looks up into the starless sky.
::  ''I am my own, you know... I can feel that the orc and that even you have distrust for Zal... but I think it is that you don't know him as I do.  I've spent time with him.  I know that he is a man of the south... a man of the stars.  He is stronger than you know.  I... I've fallen here as I have not in a long time...  I... I'm... in love with your friend.  And I'd like your fresh mind on this matter.... You, Middleman... you taunted me earlier suggesting that I am not in control of my own faculties.  I wish to know your mind on this.  I have never felt any clearer than I do tonight.''  the raven haired girl sits up, then stands... she's nearly as tall as Kyuad, powerful in stance and nature but at the same time her questions in the dark make her utterly vulnerable here in this place...
::  ''...tell me then Kyuad, tell me then Eranon... what advice would you have for me for your friend?  He seems still lost these days... I know his family's death was strongly on his mind since they were lost in the shadow of the Black Nail.  We had words earlier this evening, I can't speak as to what we argued about it was such a frenzy of emotion but he assured me that he'd always be there for me... even beyond that which my faith has offered me.  Zal promised that he'd last longer than Shadow cast across me so long ago. ... That, elf, is why I found the strength to give you my family's heirloom ... the silver moon's pendant of the Master in the North.  I... I need it less these days... My faith is full of love... in love with Zael... Zal...''
::  ''...but still, your words - they bit me earlier tonight.  I want to believe that I'm no longer a minion of the Shadow as the resistance would call it... yet I never thought I was a "minion", it was a faith that gave me comfort and guidance.  But even still, I was never forced or under control.  I have always been under my own council for my mind and faith... So tell me Kyuad.  Tell me what you so pointedly argued at me.  Zal doesn't wish to speak of it, and with that I agree with him.  I don't wish to push my love on it.  But in this time of prayer in which I do not feel like praying, I wanted to ask you for your mind on this...  What can you tell me?  Is it the Shadow that's reaching out to control me beyond my knowledge of magics now that I have strayed?  What is it elf?  What is it Middleman?  Please... tell me...''  as the former legate looks out over the sea, arms crossed, her black curly hair blowing in the moist air...



=== Kyuad ===

==== Secret information ====
* '''ROLL:'''   Kyuad (Sense Motive +17)  ROLLED:  16+17 =   32 ''  <br> This suggests to determine that Ahemia’s behavior is being influenced by an enchantment effect, specifically of the style and patterns shown by those under Zal'Kazzir's domain.  With this Kyuad pieces together the idea that magic is at work, specifically Ahemia has apparently been '''Dominated''' by Zal within the last day or less...  
** '''ROLL:'''   Kyuad (Spellcraft +25)  ROLLED:  8+25 =   33 ''  <br> Yes, it is absolutely Dominate Monster.  One in which Ahemia failed in her will against him.  The spell seems to have cast a blinder over her sense of belief in worship of the Corpse God.  More specificly she now seems to have gone from belief to doubt since the afternoon.  She now toys at thinking of Zal'Kazzir in place of the time she would have naturally been thinking of her faith.  Kyaud knows that a protection from evil or a similar spell can prevent Zal'Kazzir from exercising control or using the telepathic link while Ahemia is so warded, but such an effect neither prevents the establishment of domination nor dispels it.  However, its unlikely that Zal is paying attention now.  But then again - who's to say he isn't watching... listening to this discussion even now...  


==== Kyuad's Reply ====
As Kyuad listens, his back is turned to Ahemia... or perhaps his attention is focused on something in the dark nearby.  "'''Ahemia, you call me a wizard.  You know as well as I that in the culture of Theros Obsidia this is a vile insult and hostile accusation reserved for those seen by the priests as better dead than alive.  But, I understand that you state fact, not hyperbole or angry derision.  In the same spirit I now say to you that no one who serves the god of the Therosian priests is free.  The screams of the sacrificed rise each night from the bowels of their temples, witnessing to their illegitimacy to and the flailing hunger of a dead god.  Not even Aradil is old enough to know of a time when Izrador was still a living god, worshipped only by amorphous creatures of hatred and inhuman lusts.'''"  

As he talks, Kyuad periodically moves his hand as if tossing something into the field in front of him, and occasionally reaches out as if touching something unseen.  "'''Now the myth of the ''god who came to us'' is perpetuated by fools pitiable enough to believe it, and their vile masters, conniving and greedy enough to know the truth and yet continue in their betrayal of humanity.'''

"'''Those first duped into serving a corpse and a lie felt as you do now.  A deep, unnatural love for beings that deserve no human affection.  Manipulated by a sorcerer with power his Dornish people had never witnessed, and with an unscrupulous hunger for power and domination over others that would not be matched until the courts of old Peluria were reestablished on the southern shores of Eredane by Zal'Kazzir's... ancestors.'''"

Still facing away from Eranon and Ahemia, Kyuad waves his hand outward, in a dismissive fashion, and begins to do something on his torso, as if he were rubbing his bare stomach.  "'''He and his followers sought to ''fill'' our natural yearning to worship and to believe in something sublime, and thereby obtain control and power over others.  This disgraceful plot succeeded and thus was born the Order of Shadow - the greatest catastrophe mankind has ever constituted on our ''selves''.  For it was not a god they served, but the Fell, homeless creatures of the lost realms, withering and thirsting for souls and spirits bound to the magic and life of this world.  This was the demon, imp, fiend, archon, vrok, and ''succubus'' - worming their way into the minds of our people, turning them into slaves, puppets, toys, and tools for their selfish scheming.'''"

Pulling his jacket closed again, Kyuad finally turns around and moves close to Ahemia, addressing her face-to-face.  "'''Ask yourself, if you were one of these pawns - a mere pet of some inhuman beast of rapacious and immoral corruption - and you found that you had been forced to love something wholly devoid of loveliness... Ahemia, what would you do?'''
'''You will soon need to know.'''"

=== Lady Ahemia, former Legate of the Master in the North ===
The warrior-woman pulls her arms more tightly across the new silks, from the chill of night...

'''''"If I misspoke in evaluation of your ability Master Kyuad, for that you can trust I meant no offense.  Though I feel your judgement of belief is severely misquided.  Being a priest or follower of the Master in the North is not about freedom, its about belief.  The ability to allow one's self to be guided by something greater than you.  Some would say that ultimately no man is free.  Not only do the Legates in Shadow predict and pray, but so to the elves, the men of stone and even the horrid Mother Wives value seers and prophets.  With this the case, wouldn't you say that freedom is limited?  The world has a destiny and I was taught that mine, and yours Middleman, is written on a icecracked stone deep in the Scar below the Endless Ice.  My father's father believed that when my name is spoken my destiny will be at hand.  The teachings of the High City told that our generation would be the one to see the road to a place beyond the roof of the world, at the head of the armies that will break the Veil..."'''''


Ahemia opening up her beliefs to the Fell Warden looks into the sky to find the Riding Host... she continues...


'''''"Make no mistake Master Kyuad, donot doubt that the Master in the North lives.  A god cannot die, god cannot be defeated... not forever...  If that doesnot legitimize the power of Shadow, then what would you say could? <br> <br> Master Kyuad I donot know the ways and wells of magic, you clearly hold an understanding and sight that perhaps even my love does not.  Is it these 'others' that you look too in times of quiet, is it they that your attention is broken to?"'''''  ...as she watches keenly Kyuad's motions and movements into the air unseen...  confused by your words she, a Seneschal of Shadow continues her speech tempo increasing...


'''''"You Middleman, you wizard of arts unlawful ... I warn you as a stilled companion, do not speak to me as though you pity me.  I believe what I believe and it is not for you to judge, lest you be judged for your criminal ways by my sword.  True... I have put that away for now Master Kyuad, but donot forget who I am.  Do not forget my heart.  My steel has fought for your side in the past, it could again.  I donot find alliance with those my former liege anylonger, but my faith in my mind does not waiver.  Remember wizard I am Ahimia, Lady of Steel of the Gaskindin family, a Bearer of the Black Shield, a Harrower of Legates, a Soldier of Shadow.  I have made my life of hunting those that would form the Cabal of lies against the devout of the Order.  I willnot mince words with you on belief.  I am not a 'Darkvoice'.  I listen and act, I judge and execute.  I donot go blindly, I follow when my name is spoken from the icy tablet."'''''


The raven haired girl calms a bit hoping she is among allies, no matter how tenuous...  <br> '''''"Make no mistake Kyuad, there is no betrayal here.  I follow my heart.  If only all men could, then we would see the place in the sun beyond the Veil... then the Shadow would be lifted and mankind would be embraced by the Master in the North in full glory, not a Shadow of greatness that fell from the treachery of heaven."'''''


Irritated if not also confused by what Kyuad means, Ahemia continues to question.  She cannot know that something is holding the impulses in her mind to do another's bidding...  '''''"You speak of love and affection as though you know it.  I would ask Kyuad.  Do you love?  Can you love?  Your nature is changing, I know that.  I donot have to be a mage to see (and smell) it.  I know not what becomes of you, but it smacks of the blessing of the Shadow, likened only to the Priest of Shadow himself.  You speak of love and how I should not give it first to my belief and then to the man that I've left life for.  Is this denial of the gift of choice to offer my heart not an unscrupulous offense you argue at me?  Is that less offensive than the act of belief or the gift given?  <br> <br> I know not of this worming of imps into the minds and hearts of men.  If my teachings aid me here, those things 'trapped' of which you speak could surely not have the power of one mind, enough to band into one goal to concur as the Shadow has.  I would guess you are not a man of tactic-training, but you must admit Kyuad that the logistic nightmare of organizing such beings would discount this strange belief you have concocted...  Is this truly a belief or a theory you are pressing on me to confound the situation?"'''''


Ahemia turns walking toward kyuad...  '''''"I neither find it enlightening or rational and I fail to see how it's relevant to the questions that swirl in my mind this night.  This isn't a cause of the decisions I've made over the past arcs.  It was of my direction that I hoped you and Eranon might guide me... as I have no way to speak to the chapel guides this night..."'''''  ...Ahemia slows her banter, almost as if she wished she were elsewhere with other advisers... but neither come true, as she continues with resolution undeterred.


'''''"But you ask bluntly what would I do if I found my faith had been wronged? <br> And so I answer bluntly... I know with all my heart Kyuad."'''''


The Sarcosan's ire rises one last time.  Her shadow is lost from the night with the faltering of the moon in these nights...  '''''"I know that if that day comes there is know... As you'll answer it, take heed this 'slave' commit no violence upon herself. If I've been deceiv'd. Too late thou shalt repent the base injustice thou hast done my love: Yes, thou shalt know, spite of thy past distress, and all those ills which thou so long hast mourn'd; Heav'n has no Rage, like love to hatred turn'd, Nor hell a Fury, like a woman scorn'd."'''''


=== Eranon ===
* '''ROLL:'''   Eranon (Sense Motive +3)  ROLLED:  12+3 =   15 ''  <br> This suggests to Eranon that Ahemia's behavior is odd and may be being influenced by magics...  Eranon knows not exactly what she's been effected by or by whom, not from sensing any motive by way of Ahemia's speaking or actions and not from his knowledge of spells and magics.  Something's amiss... Something of magic is touching this young Sarcosan woman's mind, but what Eranon isn't yet sure...


Eranon stands listening to the two of them, struggling to understand their intricate dialogue.  Eranon's eyes are downcast slightly, perhaps sadness in his eyes.


'''''"I must say that the both of you speak over me, there are things here that I don't understand.  You are troubled, this I can plainly see.  You ask for advice, you ask for guidance, and I shall lend what I have, though sage it will not be, and certainly of more base language than the two of you can master."'''''


'''''"Know that I consider you ally, Lady.  Considering your previous assertion that your heart lies with the Water's Taint, there are some things I must tell you.  Know that these are fact and observation, with no judgement, and no conclusion.  You must be your own judge and guide, I provide only clear sight."'''''


'''''"I was ready to accept your duty to your Master, if it came to that.  Troubling, however, is the speed and readiness with which you overthrew your beliefs.  As a casual observer, I would not have thought it of you, would never have believed that you were like a leaf blown in the wind, more like the stone that parts the rushing waters.  You know as well as I do, that this is a decision that would weigh on one for a time before a decision was reached, and I saw none.  This was the decision of an afternoon."'''''


'''''"Further, you also know where your love's talents lie.  They are far beyond the quickness of his tongue.  He has a. . . way with people.  And finally, know this.  Love grows, it is not found, it does not spring forth suddenly from the bare rock."'''''


'''''"These, are the things I know."'''''



=== Kyuad ===

'''"Thank you Eranon,"''' Kyuad says as he moves toward his friend and places his hand on the elf's shoulder.  '''"As you know, sometimes it is difficult for me to remember when my thoughts first took place, and when it is time to utilize them.  Your clarity is an anchor for me."'''

Turning to Ahemia, Kyuad continues, '''"Ahemia, there are things I know too, which you would do well to understand, and which may help you in your current situation.  Allow me to explain my disjointed thoughts from a moment ago... I was distracted by an old friend.  Thousands of years ago, before dwarves knew of steel and when the dragon collective was an empire; beings from beyond this world, even beyond time, studied all they could in their attempt to return home.  What they discovered was written in a book that I have read.  There are elements of this book that have given me reason to call into question the assumptions we make about the nature of the Shadow and the history of this world.  Is the god dead?  Is there a Veil?  Are the priests of Theros Obsidia being used, or are they the users?  Who hears their prayers and gives them power?  The answers to these... I can't say that I believe one thing or another, at least not enough to yet take a stand.'''

'''"Ah, and I do not take a stand to espouse things I do not know, because what we choose to believe defines us.  It most certainly ''IS'' my place to judge your beliefs.  Were it not, I would be an uncaring fool who allows others to persist in folly.  What I am about this night is not to condemn, but to assist you in evaluating your beliefs."'''

Stretching his arms as he speaks, Kyuad paces slow and calm, looking about into the shadows of the darkness around them.  '''"I do know that there is a history of humanity that was lost to time - this is not a mere belief.  I ''know'' this: that the first of humanity was manipulated and tricked into worshipping the god in the pit of the Scar.  Given the promise of power and unnatural life, the betrayer turned against his people, and created the first priesthood of evil and darkness that Eredane had ever known.  His unnatural love for something, or beings, wholly unlovable was swift and complete.  They were ''demons'' who did this.'''

'''"You know of Za'al's... new form, I'm sure.  You know the power he wields that causes men to fear and respect him, and for others to love him before they've even met.  And you know of his unbounding hubris and disdain for the weakness in all those beings who lack the station of nobility that he has recently attained.  Not nobility among your people of the southlands.  Zal'Kazzir elicits far more respect from his demonic kin, and it is among those that he has cast his allegiance.'''

'''"What Eranon says is true.  Though it is tragic that anyone would willingly yoke themselves to a god bent on the destruction of so much life, and become a priest of this god - no matter how powerful - I am sure that you did not become open to this possibility overnight.  Think back to who you were when the blossoms were still in bloom and the buzzing of the insects that plagued Vrolk echoed through the halls of his tower.  Is that who you are now?  Would the Gaskindin family still know their daughter?'''

'''"Like the first priest, a demon has bent your will and caused you to fall in love with a selfish, consuming lord.  Zal'Kazzir seeks to become your new god, and though I wish you would throw off the shackles of Shadow willingly, Zal'Kazzir aims to replace them with his own.'''  

'''''"And I can prove it."'''''



===='''NOTE'''====
Wow... great responses here guys.  Brilliant depth.  Loving the simplicity of Eranon with a hard poignant point.  Contrast that with Kyuad's scholarly approach and it's some damn dramatic flavor.  I was going to note and reply with much depth in the things you spoke to Ahemia about.  However... Kyuad's last statement is an overwhelmingly dramatic bombshell, with the lead in about you both thinking her strong, etc...  Brilliant.  Here's her response to this...

=== Lady Ahemia ===
...she has always been as stone and steel.  She is hard as rock.  She is strong as ox.  She is everything her father's father would have wanted her to be.  She worshiped as a result of he heritage.  She followed the Legate traditions to make her da' proud.  She prayed to find light, because as all priests of Shadow have been told - where there is the Shadow, light flows behind.  <br>  But now... here... in this place... in this time.  Ahemia Gaskindin faulters.  Her head doesn't turn quickly at the Fell Warden's last words.  Her neck doesn't rip around to confront him.  The girl with the raven hair knew something wasn't true in this path.  <br> The Harrower swordsmistress' hands have found their way to the leather bindings for which she spins around her blade's pommel - the onyx shard blade of a Bearer of the Black Shield.  The sword lies with her pack below almost aching to find the victim.  <br> The only sound coming on the cool breeze of the night overlooking the crash waves of the coast is the crisp rending of leather in her nervous hateful hand... Her voice quivering as if she fears the answers to come, but knows they must... She speaks.


'''''"...then be at it Middleman. Prove it..."'''''  



=== Kyuad ===

'''"How much do you value your beauty, Lady Ahemia?  This perfect body of yours, so brazenly nude in front of us; the pitch hair falling on your shoulders; the flush lips and cheecks of your youth - would you sacrifice them for the truth?  Because if what I say is true, you must go for a short time as ugly as the deeds I have attributed to Zal'Kazzir.  If you would make this sacrifice to know the truth, take my hand."'''  Kyuad stands before her, his skin pulled tight against his face, gray and leathery, with thinning, parched lips and eyes devoid of color.  He holds out a hand, dry and rough, with a deep, bloodless cut across the palm.  A warm, violet glow begins to engulf his arm, and tiny arcs of this concentrated energy riple up and down his fingers.  '''"You must make this choice yourself."'''

==== Note ====
: ''Kyuad's going to cast a spell on her, and he's obviously not telling her what it is.  He is not going to force her to accept, however.  She either decides to let him do this before he tells her the full ramifications of what "losing her beauty for a time" means, or he won't even try.  No matter how ugly she gets, she needs to know that Kyuad is not the reason for it.''


=== Lady Ahemia ===
'''''"There is something in these times I HAVE, something lesser men, elf and dwarven-kind do not.  It lies in my bosom and guides my hand true.  I have faith, Fell Warden.  But I need truth."'''''  ...the statuesque child of Shadow doesn't even glance at the shriveling hand, staring Kyuad in the eye he feels his hand grasped by hers, as her jaw tenses..



=== Kyuad ===

The fell warden takes her warm, soft hand into his and the violet glow spreads through her body, stiffening.  '''"Peda Tay kay-Dosh,"''' he proclaims, as her joins stiffen and lock into place.  In her rictis, she feels a sense of dread and longing, eager to pull away but unable.  

Still holding her hand, Kyuad says in a commanding voice, '''"In the morning, visit a pool and have your answer, for your countenance will become more withered, decayed, twisted in form, and horrid for the rest of the world to witness during every passing hour you spend under the magical influence of an outsider!  When I release my hand, you will remember everything, but will be unable to speak of the nature of this curse to anyone until the curse is lifted, save this: Your beauty fades because a demon has you under his control.  To anyone who asks, this will be the reason."'''

With this, the violet glowing energy now surrounding both figures bursts outward as Kyuad releases her hand and Ahemia immediately begins to move again.

==== Note ====
: '''''Crunchy Bits:''' Kyuad cast prestedigitation to make the violet energy appear.  Paralyzing touch to keep her held as he explained things, for effect more than anything else.  The spell was [http://wiki.rpg.net/index.php/Shadowkillers_-_New_Spells#Bestow_Curse.2C_Greater Bestow Greater Curse], level 8.  I assume she willingly failed her save, but if not the DC is 28 Will.  

* Though any of this could be overruled by the GM, this is the way the curse is meant to function:
** For every hour she spends under the influence of a mind-affecting spell or spell-like ability that originated from an outsider, or every time she casts a spell powered by the energies of the Great Outsider Conspiracy (Izrador), she grows subtly uglier.  The metric of the change is up to the GM, but 24 hours under the influence will result in a character being noticably disfigured, and after 48 hours a character will be quite deformed.
** The ugliness wanes 4 times faster than it was gained.  24 hours of mental influence will be wiped away by 6 hours of being under no influence.  For these purposes, one Outsider Conspiracy-granted spell counts as one hour of mental influence.
** No matter what kind of attempts are made, the subject of the curse is not able to explain that they are under a curse, or where it came from.  They know full well what happened, but are unable to think or talk about the source.  They are able only to explain that a demon (or some sort of outsider, as befits the knowledge of the subject) is exerting mental control over them, and this is why they grow more ugly.
** The curse ends when Zal'Kazzir dies (this is a hidden condition of the curse), or when someone casts'' remove curse ''on the subject at caster level 17+ (this is the standard way to remove a greater curse).



=== Lady Ahemia ===
The raven haired girl's ochre-colored eyes flicker first with terror at the sight of magics, and then turn to awe as she has obviously not been so close to the powered casting of a wizard.  Her hand has found its way to crush many magic-users, and with that the magics they wielded only could be seen for an instance.  This... this is something quite ... different for the Harrower of Legates.  <br>  '''''"...I...I... the mag... what witchery was this Fell Warden??  I... my arm ... the numbness fades but for a moment... I ... I felt as the dead..."''''''  Ahemia looks about at the world, glancing to Eranon for his justification that this WAS a good thing to be had on her.  Her trust of this is on tenuous ground with the pulse of chilling magics, the like she has never had in her before.  She steps back with terror in her eye for a moment...  <br>  '''''"... wha... WHAT have you done to me WIZARD?!?!!!  What witchcrafting curse have you set on me??!  How has THIS proven anything??  How has this unholy blight given insight into the nature of proof you promised...?..?!!"'''''  <br> <br>  ...the legate steely eyes keeps her guard ready, eyes trained on the Wizard watching the Elf in her peripherial.  She makes a slight hiss through her teeth and the black tiger leaps to a perch on her prayer seat.  Watching closely her knee dips to the aryth and she returns to her full height...  black blade glinting with the torch-light Ahemia has sword in hand.  
* '''ROLL:'''   Kyuad (Sense Motive +17)  ROLLED:  2+17 =   19
* '''ROLL:'''   Eranon (Sense Motive +3)  ROLLED:  16+3 =   19  
::  Eranon and Kyuad can see her apprehension.  Here she wants more answers...  In a normal argument, in a normal world perhaps men and women wouldn't be so quick to come to threats with steel.  But this is not a normal world.  These are not passive people.  The sense is that Ahemia is not looking to attack, but she is strongly concerned at what was done to her.  It's likely some caring words and explanation could calm her down.  But saying nothing could set her off.  True... she agreed to this... but having faith and then being paralyzed at the same time as being cursed would make anyone have angst.  (ie. imagine me pinching you with a close-pin unexpectedly)...

Striking a pose of power, her hands raised above her head in classic down-strike position - her watery eyes fixed on Kyuad,  she asks again... <br>  '''''"What is it that I am afflicted with Wizard, and what must I do to rid myself of this and that which you seek to heal me of because of it??  And what do you wish me to remain unable to speak the nature of this curse to anyone until lifted - for I donot even know the thing you've put on me..."'''''  <br> Ahemia stands ready to act or be councilled...


==== GM Notes ====
::  Lady Ahemia's Charisma score is/was 16.  
::  Remember to remove those Spell Energy cast.  Remember also - this conversation took place after midnight on the 6th of HALAIL when you were at the rendevous point below Baden's Bluff.  You then travelled on the Paths of Dal Colia to the Corbron Isles, where you are now.  That was nearly 48 hours ago.  Of course (strangely enough)  Zal had specifically been illusioning he and Ahemia to look as normal denizens of the Pirate Isles nearly the entire time, the rest of his time has been calling Outsiders with you guys.  So naturally he hasn't noticed her degradation.  heheh...  He will this game likely... 
# (getting uglier by the hour):  this fulfills the original spell's point of "One ability score is reduced to 1, or two ability scores take –6 penalties (to a minimum score of 1)."  (ie.  you shouldn't be able to "invent" more since it essentially does this one effect of the original spell.)
# (waning of the ugly effect):  this breaks a point of the original spell - "A greater curse cannot be dispelled, nor can it be removed with break enchantment or limited wish.  A miracle or wish spell removes a greater curse, as does remove curse cast by a spellcaster of at least 17th level."  But I'm sort of okay with it for the story purpose.
# (not being able to explain):  is in my opinion outside the ability of the cursing spell...  I'd say that you can explain to her the effects and she's not likely to tell unless forced.  But I can't see the spell doing the above AND this as well.
# (curse ending):  as with Point 2, this breaks the "permanency" of the spell.  Can a Channeller CHOOSE to end an effect at his will?  I didn't think so.  But again I'm okay with it for the purpose of the story here.
# (my thought):  heheheheh, neat role-playing spell...
===== Bill's Reply =====
# (getting uglier by the hour):  This curse does not mimic any of the three listed effects in the spell description, and it was never my intent to have it change her Charisma score in any way.  If you want to give her penalties to her interaction checks when people see that she is ugly, well that makes sense but it's not the express intent of the spell.  This curse falls under the realm of ''"You can also invent your own curse, but it should be no more powerful than those described above, and the DM has the final say on the curse’s effect."''  Based on how little it actually does, the curse could have been a regular one instead of a greater one.  It doesn't impede her in any way, other than to make her ugly (and whatever limitations you determine that might cause, like Zal rejecting her), and it's not a curse that she has to suffer - she has the capability of ending the cause of the ugliness if she chooses to act on it.  The reason I made it a greater curse is because it's going to be HARD for Zal or anyone else to get rid of it.  I mean, with the spell cast I could have KILLED her (through the severe limitations that the 3 "normal" uses of the curse impose) instead of doing what Kyuad said he was going to do.  Is this curse more powerful than the examples given in the spell description?  If not, then it's an okay use of the spell.
::: <font color=red>REPLY: I disagree, isn't it exactly the first (reducing the Charisma to 1)? I know the Charisma isn't only your looks but don't you think this would impede her normal way of interacting - self confidence, etc... I'm just saying that it seems like an easy way to note that it's the first point of the spell...</font>
:::: I don't understand... to what do you disagree?  I think the curse should absolutely '''NOT''' reduce her Cha score to 1, because that would make her catatonic and that's the '''opposite''' of the curse's intent.  She's supposed to recognize that a change is happening, know the cause of the ugliness, and use that to determine that a demon has her under control.  The ugliness is not at all the goal - the goal is to use the ugliness as a litmus test.
# (waning of the ugly effect):  The curse remains active at all times, until it is dispelled.  That the ugnliness wanes when conditions are not met does not in any way end the curse.  In fact, I intended that to be a limitation on the curse that would balance out it's overall strength.  
::: <font color=red>REPLY: Okay.</font>
# (not being able to explain):  This contributes to the overall power of the spell.  Technically I didn't have to tell her that I'd caused this at all.  I could have worded everything in such a way as to make her think that there was no curse at all, and this limitation wouldn't have had to be mentioned.  I just chose to do things above-the-table instead so she wouldn't eventually think I had tricked her if things came out that I had.
::: <font color=red>REPLY: I just don't think this is in the parameters of the spell. Don't get me wrong, it's not likely she'd "tell on you" if this is properly explained to her... But I just don't think it's part of this spell. That's the effect of Dominate in my opinion.</font>
:::: A curse can cause the rest of a person's endeavors to end in pain and anguish - so what if that mimics another spell?  The intent of the curse spell is to mimic the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curse wish of misfortune] found in history, right?  I'm not saying you're wrong and you shouldn't remove this aspect of the curse, but I do think that ''a curse'' (even if it's not this one) should be able to do this, at least to some extent.
# (curse ending):  The condition of the curse ending completely with Zal's death ''does'' break with the express limitations of a greater curse, so I'd have no argument if you threw that out.  No, the greater curse is not dismissable (D), so Kyuad does have to gain a level and then remove it if it ever is to go away.
::: <font color=red>REPLY: Okay </font>
# (thoughts): I'm glad you like it!  One of the conditions of the ugliness is something that could be problematic.  She's only supposed to get uglier when being influenced by an outsider.  This includes casting spells powered by outsider energy.  This does not include spells powered by an actual deity.  So if you don't want this curse to be used as a means by which Kyuad can determine if the Great Outsider Conspiracy is fact or fiction, then you should change that portion (either casting spells doesn't trigger the ugliness at all, or casting legate spells no matter the source does trigger the ugliness).  Then again, this ''is'' an 8th-level spell, cast on a legate who willingly let it happen (something that may never happen again) - so maybe it should be able to do something kinda special.  If you don't change that though, you better believe that this is going to be a contributing factor to Kyuad's research into the nature of Izrador! :)
::: <font color=red>REPLY: She IS currently influenced by an outsider... Kyuad could/should have gotten that. She's under the mind-magics of Zal, and he's an outsider. I had/have no intention of changing it to allow Kyuad to determine anything, other than continued influence.</font>
:::: I think I haven't explained it well.  Your intent is going to be to change the effects of the curse or not, but that doesn't have anything to do with allowing Kyuad to do something.  The key here is that she's ugly only when being influenced by an outsider.  If an outsider has her dominated, or if she casts spells powered by outsiders, she gets uglier.  Therefore, if Zal does not have her under control and the curse is still active, her casting legate spells will either have no impact on her looks (meaning the magic is from a god) or it will make her uglier (meaning the magic is from outsiders pretending to be a god).  The curse doesn't prove anything.  The proof has to be inferred, again, like a litmus test.  If you want this to not be possible, change the effects of the curse (it's on a wiki, you can make the changes directly).

=== Kyuad ===

Kyuad's hands move slowly to his back, clearly acting relaxed and non-violent.  '''"Be at peace, Lady.  Some truth is difficult to proove.  Know that we mean you no great harm."'''  With this, Kyuad slowly glides back a pace or two, and turns a pleading look to Eranon.

: ''Note: Keep in mind that every level 5 legate can cast'' bestow curse'', so she's likely familiar with how they can work.  This is a more powerful version of the same spell, so that might be new to her even though it's a legate spell too.''


===Eranon===

Eranon's muscles tighten in a half-second, springing back with surprise, Hell's heart already in hand, but he stops short of drawing his bow, realizing that Ahemia has not continued to charge forward.  Still tense, he speaks slowly and deliberately, the verbal equivalent of bomb disposal

'''''Lady, be assured that I knew not what my companion would do.  Likewise, be assured that he means you no harm.  His motives, though unconventional, are as he says.  He says that your appearance will change only if under the direct mental influence of those not natural to Our Great Lady.  His intention is that while you may not trust us, you can trust the effects of his magic, unbiased as they are.  Observe, my lady, over the next few days, see whether your mind is your own, and further, observe how your love behaves as your beauty, though temporarily, fades.  These things will tell you all you need.  You have not been attacked, nor wronged, and I will be here for your council as you need it.'''''

Eranon shoots a quick glance through narrowed eyes over to Kuyad, hoping he has started to calm the woman.  He slowly returns the arrow to its small solitary quiver beneath the front of his shirt.



=== Lady Ahemia ===	 
:: '''Note''': Yes, I absolutely know that she'd likely know what a curse is - which is why she's reacting to the "witchery"... However, Ahemia is NOT a spellcaster, nor a studier of magecraft in any way. She has no ranks in anything coming close. This, to her, is freaky!!	 
	
 
Standing ready to lower her fear on the wizard, Ahemia glances to the elf... You can both see the unsuredness in her eyes... Eyes that have newly created wrinkled "crows feet" beginning to stretch from the corners of her now bloodshot eyes above newly formed purple bags... An obvious result of the curse. Your spellcrafted eyes can see... she IS already being influenced by an outsider! The spell has shown this to be true, and the hour clock that will degrade the raven haired girl's beauty begins to tick. '''''"...d..d...difficult? HE..."'''''  glancing her eyes from Eranon to focus on Kyuad...  '''''"YOU... offered proof, when and how will it arrive... wha... what is this witchery doing to me??..."''''' Her eyes focus again on Kyuad, the great black tiger crouches ready behind...


=== Kyuad ===

Kyuad looks down as he sees her change before his eyes.  '''''"His control over her is worse than I thought..."''''' he whispers to himself.  '''"Lady Ahemia, I could have removed the shackles, but would that prove that they originated with Za'al?  I could have tricked you into turning against him, but I'm not a being of deception.  I provide you instead with a proof, in a form reflective of the powers active against you, that a demon has treated you like a pet and now holds your leash.  You are clearly an intelligent woman, and you can yourself determine if what we say is true.  Soon it will be unavoidable, you will have sure proof that your mind is not your own.  And if Zal'Kazzir drops his enchantments that now hold you as his ''slave'', once your beauty returns you will know that he was the source.  It is like my warning said, you must sacrifice your beauty for a time to know the truth."'''

Glancing up at the great panther, Kyuad lets out a low whistle, '''"Ahemia, Nisse may not look like much, but she ''will'' attack this cat if you don't call her back, and I would hate to see either of them hurt."'''


=== Lady Ahemia ===	 
Lady Ahemia glances to the bird then to Dahiran, her black tiger...  '''''"There is power enough to change the world even in the smallest of us, is there not?"'''''  as she looks down... <br>  '''''"... but I fear you wrong in this Wizard.  My care for Za'al is my own, I found the heart of the man and he forced me to find my faith better placed.  I now see it for the first time and it strikes fear in me.  This is why I came to you.  Not to be coerced or solved away from my love, but to unriddle the puzzle of my heart.  It is so very full today, yet I feel nothing but the pit in my belly.  I have been sick at dawn's Shadow hour and I feel I will soon need a Binder [of Blood].  <br> You mistake me Kyuad.  I am not looking to find an answer for myself, I know my way - I have walked the path willingly.  I give my heart and I knew to whom I gave it.  No, Kyuad... Eranon...  I am looking for an answer for my childe... and I fear for the midnight and dawn for the first time. "'''''  ....still she stands ready with sword above, a single tear trickles down her cheek.

:: If she's talking about a child, can we take the e off the end?  That's needlessly confusing.

== Questions ==
Can I get a spellcraft check for Eranon to see if the spell kuyad cast does what he says it will?
* '''ROLL:'''   Eranon (Spellcraft +14)  ROLLED:  16+14 =   30 ''  <br>  Yes.  It's true, for the most part.  Though you know that it cannot change her memory or cause her to not speak about it if she wanted to give that info...
** Keep in mind that Eranon's only information about what the spell does comes from Kyuad's description of the curse, and not all of that description has to necessarily be enforced by the magic of the curse - it could just be a warning that she mustn't dare do something, or that she should understand it in the way he describes.

Can I get a ??? roll to figure out what in the hell she's been talking about this whole time?  I was '''positive''' that she wanted to know whether or not she was being coerced by Zal.


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==LINKS==

[[Midnight RPG - THE SOUTHIES|PORTAL]] | [[DURGAZ]] | [[ERANON]] | [[Kyuad|KYUAD]] | [[ZAL'KAZZIR]]