The Schism: A 13th Age RP Campaign

15 minutes.

I wasn't figuring in the x2 mods on skill checks...

We still got the reward for being drunk though.

We're still having session Friday, right?
Just reminding you I'll be there around 10.

Y'know how you're out of it right after a good nap and your brain kind of jumps around for a bit? I think I've finally got a plan to deal with Julie.

Neo!

I need a bit more info on how to enter into a demonic contract.

Cheeeesybear. You need to keep up with stuff better.

No session tonight. Working.

I already forgot what my plan was. Just that it involved Warin. And would probably piss everyone off. But Arlan most of all, so it's a win.

So. I know you said you forgot what your plan was, Birb, but in case you need it for future reference.

Demonic Pacts: A Demonic Pact requires four main components- a demon(obviously), a willing participant, a catalyst or focus for the pact, and a ritual. I'll explain all in a bit more detail.

The Demon: While all demons can forge pacts, not all demons can forge pacts with everyone, and the strength of the pact varies greatly. Lesser Demons, such as Imps, can only form pacts with weak willed mortals, and the strength of their pact is very minor, which means it can be broken by a higher ranking demon or more powerful entity. There are several categories of demons: Lesser Demons, Standard Demons, Greater Demons, and Archdemons. To give an example, Imps are Lesser, rank and file demon soldiers and warriors are Standard, Generals and Balors are Greater, and the twelve Demon Princes are Archdemons. Any offspring the Demon Princes have are also considered Archdemons, so that includes Nyl. Nyl would be able to break most demonic pacts on her own without help, but Manu is in a class of his own. Not even the 12 Princes of the Abyss outrank Manu. The strength of a pact with Manu is akin to a Concept, hence why a Hero of Time is needed to break it. Also because of that, Manu's pacts follow slightly different rules, but the same principles. He can make pacts with anyone using himself as a catalyst, and his voice as a ritual, but still needed a willing participant(Which is why he put on his best silvertongue to trick Nyl into agreeing, which he did). But that means his pacts can also be broken by someone that is higher ranking than him or by a Hero of Time. And currently, no demon outranks him(Though, there is a way to change that with a certain Legendary Magic Item, hint hint).

The willing participant: Creatures can be tricked into making a pact with a demon, usually through cunning persuasion and deceit, but cannot be forced into one. This is a concept all demons are bound by, from Tieflings to Manu. Unless, of course, a demon were to become a Hero of Time.

The Catalyst: A magical focus used to power the ritual. Usually an object of significant sentimental value to the participant, which is then charged with magic by the demon. However, there have been cases where living beings have been used as Blood Catalysts. This is usually fatal for the sacrifice, but dramatically strengthens the power of the pact.

The Ritual: The ritual to form a pact is known to all demons who were raised in the Abyss. Tieflings who were raised above, like Nyl, are a different story. However, Selene or Maria could teach Nyl.

I will come right out and tell you that you're still far behind Arlan's level of knowledge. Far, far behind.