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Gargul

Gargul - DM Mark
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 2:55:50 AM
Alleah stands strategically in the room and heals everyone for 17 points. Then she makes sure that Uthvas is tightly bound. She takes his spell component pouch for good measure and asks for someone to put a bag over his head. Finally, she suggests using the ointment on Uthvas. She feels a warmth fill her after this (+1 on her saves for the round.)

As Uthvas pouch is removed, the group also removes three large syringes full of magical liquids, a magic robe, a dagger, a magic amulet, a magic belt, a magic cloak, magic goggles, a magic headband, and a crystal. He looks sad. And mad. Definitely more mad than sad actually.

For Murphy: Highlight to display spoiler: {Murphy passes through Aleah, attempting to bolster her healing. This has no effect on her healing, but she does gain +1 on her saves for a round. As he passes through the others it will have a similar effect, though in a moment that will not matter. He attempts to speak to the spirits in the larger room, but they seem to only beckon him to join them in their hate...hate...hate....}

Shel advocates for using the unguent to raise Murphy, having identified it’s magical properties. She offers it to Pressi.

Cameron agrees on the unguent. He casts detect victim and it points to Tiana (spell only reveals the nearest victim that wants revenge.) Camerons stamps Uthvas’ head, and in bright red letters it reads, “BAD GUY.” The giant is unconscious. Cameron is not sure why.

Bliss and Mookie indicate they’re ready.

Pressi rubs the greasy stuff on what is left of her boyfriend. This is now how she imagined this moment.

As she does so, the room fills with gray fog that billows out and blocks the view of everything except the party, Tiana, and Veseley. Neither Uthvas nor the giant are in sight. Veseley puts is arm around the cowering Tiana, “Oooo, look Tiana. It’s all foggy and stuff. I wonder what this means. At least that weird man is gone.”

Dead Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 1.6021765×10^−19/60 - (Kim) - ghostly Murphy d20+10=26 ;
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 4:52:31 AM

To be judged. To be weighed. To be measured. To be tried. To undergo evaluation. To be questioned. To be confronted. To be considered. To find acceptance, or rejection. Found wanting? Found worthy?

Murphy chooses to ignore the calls of the blackened spirits who ignore his call. They have chosen their darkness.

The veins of Woldsblood pulse. Can he hear a heartbeat? He thinks to touch one of the rivulets, to learn what happens next. Yet he would not leave his friends, who have not left him. [Will save vs Woldsblood draw: 26/18]

He finds his spirit being drawn toward his body. As he comes close, there is Pressi. He tries to take her hand. Where is his own hand? It passes through what is solid still. Yet he senses a shifting as details of the room begin to vanish in a fog.

"We come, Lord Gargul."

In the Grey Mist [ACDM SteveK]
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 6:50:17 AM
Inside the fog, the scene changes. Instead of the room where the heroes are, they now see a realm of infinite darkness crisscrossed by glowing red lines, some as small as a thread and like raging rivers. They are all flowing to the same place, and the heroes find themselves floating along one of these red lines. (Knowledge Religion or Planes DC 10 or a Bloodwitch with no check Highlight to display spoiler: {can identify these red lines as 'Ley Lines' of Woldsblood!}). Know Religion or Planes DC 20; Highlight to display spoiler: { the hero knows touching Woldsblood is very, very dangerous!})

The thread joins a larger line, and another until the heroes hurtle over a wild river of glowing red; tossed about like a cork in a hurricane! Until finally, they are thrown to the shore of a black pool in front of a grey marble parthenon. in the center of the edifice is an enormous but empty grey marble throne. Ominously empty.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 23*/15*/19* -- CMD 15 -- HP 43/45 d20+7=14 ; d20+7=25 ;
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 9:48:24 AM
Alleah's eyes go wide. "Leylines" she whispers "It's from them that I draw power to cast my spells. I always knew they were real but I've never actually SEEN them before"

She carefully starts to reach out to touch one of the threads, but stops just before her fingers reach them. "On second thoughts that might be a bad idea"

As the party are thrown to the ground of the marble parthenon, Alleah instinctively "tuck and rolls" to avoid getting hurt. She carefully gets to her feet and checks for any injuries. She feels ok, just a few slight bumps.

"Er, is that throne supposed to be empty?" she asks the others.

This is not what she expected the afterlife to be like. It felt so cold and lonely.

-----------------
First check: Autopass as a BW
Knowl Religion vs DC20: 14 = Fail
Knowl Planes vs DC20: 25 = Pass

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 38/53, CMD 22 d20+5=6 ;
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 10:19:01 AM
Knowledge Religion Natural 1.

"Someone has to tell Uthvas he needs to update his bathroom," Pressi remarked. "Get some sunnier tile in here. Maybe a picture with a boat. The whole 80s Tron thing is a nice touch.

"Oh, I guess my hands were that fast. Who knew I could flurry with animal grease?"

In response to the stares of everyone else, "I figured I'd get all these jokes out now, before anyone comes in."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22 +1 (Haste) = 23, HP 56/56, CMD 20; Hero Points: 2; Bless, Haste
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 11:55:37 AM
"Usually girls charge extra to flurry with animal grease," says Kezzem.

"So, uh, what do we do now?"

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle)
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 1:08:42 PM

Mookie shushes Pressi and Kezzem severely, with none of his usual banter. "Hush, you fools! Do you think He cannot hear you?" the raven whispers. "Do you want your tongue to crawl out of your mouth -- and your penance will be to carry it around, voiceless, until it decides to crawl back in?"

Bliss gives a startled small PEEP at that.

"Yeah, Kid, it really happened," Mookie whispers. "I heard it from a guy who heard it from that guy's party member,"

Dead Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 1.6021765×10^19/60 - (Kim) - ghostly Murphy d20+22=26 ;
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 2:59:14 PM

Murphy observes with a mixture of curiosity and awe. He wonders if his friends can see him yet here in this realm. He looks about. Is the Imp nearby? Lord Gargul himself? He takes a tentative two steps forward - if step he can.

[Perception: 26]

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle)
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 3:18:35 PM

Mookie is lost in thought, remembering stories of years and years gone by. How has he lived so long? "That was your Uncle Appolo who told me that story. What a rascal! Do you remember him teaching you girls how to pick pockets? When his group -- the Swords of Redemption, they were named -- when they met Gargul, Appolo got mad at what Gargul told him. He came to the meeting with weapon drawn. And he did not sheathe his weapon after Gargul told him to. He defied Gargul to his face, and Gargul just killed him flat out. His penance was hard in the Lands of Rest before Gargul let him return to his friends."

"And that was his friend Val, a girl, now that I remember better, who dared tell the god of death and life, to his face, that He did not understand mortality! Imagine! Her tongue fell out, and it didn't crawl back in for quite a while."

Bliss shivers and thinks about his mom, and the price she paid for bringing Bliss back to life without Gargul's blessing.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 6:57:42 PM
Shel remained silent in this new environment. She wasn't sure if this was an illusion, or if they were actually somewhere different, actually waiting for a god. Part of her wanted to use Spellcraft checks to determine the magical power of the necromancer' items the group had consficated, but she thought the better of it for the time being. She decided to just wait quietly.

AC 25 (T 17, FF 21) CMD 20 HP 61/61 Cameron (David)
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 8:18:39 PM
Cameron looks around at the throne room he had seen only once before. He was glad Mookie had shushed the others, he had work to do here and then mouthing off to Gargul and getting them expelled early was not part of that work.

He assumed the cross-legged sitting posture he used to pray to Jancassis, and did what he did mostly when he prayed to her. He allowed his mind to wander to wherever was important to him today. So much of her worship was spent in reflection on what had been seen, heard and done in the past that it was natural. He reflected on all those that had influenced him to this point.

There were his parents, whom he barely remembered. What he thought of most when he remembered them was how they had always held him and made him feel safe. He remembered the night they went out, 'just for a few hours to visit with their friends'. The night they never returned from. From that night on he thought he would never feel that safe feeling again.

Then Morgan rushed in, right ahead of those that wished him harm. He scooped the child Cameron up and fought off the attackers while holding Cameron in his arms, and Cameron felt that safe feeling again. It wasn't the same, Morgan smelled of blood and steel and sweat where his parents smelled of flowers, honey and sunshine, but it was close.

Then he saw himself in the Fist, and that feeling of safe was of his own making. His wits and his bow kept him and his friends safe. He passed the feeling on once, when he refused to follow orders and leave the traveling circus behind. He was small, and alone, and far less than what they had expected to come along as help. In the end though, his help was enough to keep them from filling the gnoll's bellys.

Then he learned that Morgan too had been taken from him, presumably killed by the same person or persons that had taken his parents from him. He felt small and alone as he knelt in prayer over Morgan's body. But what was he praying for? Morgan was gone, turned into a zombie as a warning not to keep digging into who was behind the murders. What could he possibly gain from prayer? When all seemed dark he learned what. A lone voice from the darkness that said 'follow me and I will teach you how to make them pay' 'follow me and you will always feel safe, because I will remove all fear from you' 'I will make YOU the one that the evil ones fear'

Jancassis had done that. She had taught him that planning the hunt was how the hunter survived and kept from being the hunted. She had shown him things that chilled him to the bone. Things that made him question whether or not he was really the one in control. The answer was always the same. You control the things you do. Your actions are your own, how others perceive them is how you are judged. Do not invite vengeance against yourself, be sure that there is no just reason. But had that been enough?

Priestess Liliput had made him ask questions about himself, hard questions. Did mercy still reside in his heart? How much revenge was enough? How could you always tell the guilty from the wrongly accused? Even with her questions, she stood by him at his trial. She stood and allowed him to subject himself to the stings and bites of thousands of venemous creatures. She watched as he wrestled with the questions put to him in the delirium brought on by so much poison and so much devotion. When it was over, when his ravaged body and tattered mind fell to the floor, she wrapped him in a blanket and held him until he was again able to stand on his own. To her it was the easiest thing in the world to give unconditional love to someone who did not appreciate it. She forgave him his thoughts of Vengeance and wished him only peace.

He thought about all of these things, and a single tear ran down his cheek. He didn't wipe it away, it showed him what he should do, if he had the courage. Decided, he stood back up, brushed off his coat and spoke in a clear, calm, respectful tone to the throne.
" Lord Gargul, we have come to beseech you to return our friend Murphy to the land of the living. He is a strong, maybe too willful friend to us. He died doing what he knew was right, trying to help others. Please allow us to share our memories of him with you and try in our own way to convince you that the Wold is a better place with him in it. Will you please hear us?"

In the Grey Mist [ACDM SteveK]
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 10:03:43 PM
Alleah wonder at the travel through the Shadow Lands and the final arrival. Is itbactually supposed to be empty.

Pressi makes a couple jokes to lighten the mood. You know, until the proprietor actually gets here...

Lessen wonders what should they do now.

Bliss and Mookie are unusually sober, both in thoughts, warnings, and stories from the past. The encounter of the Pirates of Jack and Gargul is one from childhood stories... And recent enough from dreams in the Giggling Ghost that one or more of the heroes would have heard the story directly from Ashira...

Shel's academic mind considers different possibilities that could bring this effect about, but decides to wait to see what may come.

Murphy considers the consequences of being judged. He considers the possibility of Gimp the Imp, that constant companion of Gargul may be about, and considers if his companions can see him? The last is obviously no, Murphy is still unnoticed to his friends, though he feels a pull toward his mangled body. (Murphy finds he can't fly more than 3 feet from his body). He is a s sharp-eyed as ever, but he can find no trace of the contrary Imp.

Cameron considers his actions in support of his goddess and begins to pray... The halfling does note that THIS throne and scene is NOT the same as what he experienced before. Is this a new throne? An illusion? Something else?

Tiana continues to huddle in a frightened, miserable ball with Veseley trying to comfort her with meaningless babble.
...
For a long moment nothing seems to happen. A gray cloud drifts across the horizon, the water lap gently, the throne stands.

A gray cloud? No. A striding figure against the sky, so huge that he blocks out the sky. Each stride covers leagues and as he gets closer, he seems to shrink until the Gray Wanderer is only Huge as he steps into the Pavilion and sits upon the throne. Clad all in gray, the wanderer holds a staff like a sceptre, his face covered by a cloak that no eye can penetrate.

(At this moment, Murphy becomes visible to his companions and he finds he can speak and interact, just not move from floating above his body.)

YOU COME TO ME TO SEEK A LIFE, THE FATE OF MORE THAN ONE LIFE. SPEAK YOUR QUESTIONS AND PETITIONS. FOR I AM GARGUL, AND HOLD THE GATES TO LIFE AND DEATH IN MY POWER.

The whole afterwold waits for the heroes...

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 23*/15*/19* -- CMD 15 -- HP 43/45
Wednesday July 13th, 2016 11:10:50 PM
At the first sign of Gargul, Alleah immediately drops to one knee and lowers her head. She doesn't dare look upon the approaching god.

She hadn't actually thought about what she was going to say. How could she make a good case for the return of Murphy's soul? She raises her head slightly to look upon the Lord of Life and Death as she speaks slowly and carefully.

"My lord, we are grateful for you granting us this audience. We have come to ask for the return of Murphy to the land of the living. I have only one answer to explain his death: that when he was born his heart was made three times bigger than his head" Alleah pauses a moment and then continues "In so desperately wanting to save others from pain and death, his zeal placed him in harm's way. For a person who values the lives of others so very much, I humbly ask that you consider allowing his soul to return to them."

She stops talking at that point, and waits to see what the others may say.

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle)
Thursday July 14th, 2016 7:42:23 AM

Bliss stands up straight and cocks his sparrow head, that being the best he can do at bowing his head humanoid-style to show respect. He peeps and trills for a while, in a complicated way that is not a song exactly.

If you are a god or a person who can understand the speech of animals -- or if you want to read Bliss's words and can keep them in YOUR head but out of your character's -- then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {"Master Gargul, Sir, it's like Miss Alleah said, Mister Murphy is a super good person and brave but maybe careless sometimes when he is worried about others and not exactly knowing all the details of his powers and stuff what he can do. But Miss Alleah left out something important! The whole reason Mister Murphy died was because we were fighting a necromancer and his lifeless corpse-golems! We captured the necromancer and tried to bring him here to you. [OOC: Not sure if Uthvas ended up with us in the Realm of Shadows or not ... we tried to bring him, bound, gagged, and blinded.] He is a gross monster who experiments on people and taxidermicizes dead people and creates wierd zombie things and says he wants to cheat death, beg pardon Master, and live forever! That's not good! Even I know you hate stuff like that! Right? And Mister Murphy was out ahead of all of us to fight this bad guy!" }

Bliss pauses a moment to catch his breath. Mookie, crouching down respectfully, tucks his head under his wing and is silent. Bliss, on the other hand, has some more cheeps and chirps in him.

Highlight to display spoiler: {"And, um, well, um, Master, sir, um, I do have a question and a petition, sir. I mean in addition to asking for Mister Murphy to come back to the Wold, forgive me, sir. Um, well, my question is about my mama, that's Vauhwyt the Grim, um, she's a liontaur, and I was just wondering if you could say how she is, that's all, thank you sir very very much! And uh, you know I am just a witch who serves you and a shadowdancer and I understand shadowdancers get a shadow friend and I'm worried you won't like that because it's a shadow or something but not a bad one and I'm not even sure if it's undead or just a living shadow whatever that is so I'm hoping you won't mind sir? That's my petition, Master Gargul sir."}

Frightened and getting a little more than somewhat flustered, Bliss ends up babbling a bit, realizes it, shuts up, crouches down low like Mookie, and peeps his best thank you.

Dead Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 1.6021765×10^19/60 - (Kim) - ghostly Murphy
Thursday July 14th, 2016 11:17:55 AM
Not knowing whether he can do so effectively, Murphy tries quietly, respectfully to cast speak with animals that he might understand Bliss's chirping.

Aside from that, he remains silent, thinking it is time for his friends to speak, and him to listen, waiting until Lord Gargul himself requests it of him before he addresses the awe-full Gatekeeper.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39
Thursday July 14th, 2016 2:37:24 PM
"Interestingly, the person who would be best suited to explain why he should return is Murphy himself, sir. I'm sure he has a cousin or an in law who has made such a request before and he probably knows all the in's and outs. Or he would, if that nasty necromancer's goons hadnt mashed him. But, personally, Murphy is my oldest friend and a good soul. He cares about this group and his friends and family and his town more than anyone I could imagine. If anyone deserves a chance to go back and finish his life, it'd be Murphy."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 38/53, CMD 22
Thursday July 14th, 2016 3:04:49 PM
Pressi rushes to Murphy's side as soon as he appears but seems quite nervous about what to say or do next. Even reaching out to him fills her with fear. "Are you okay?" she finally gets out.

From behind her, Bliss starts chirping away. They really ought to do something about that, even if there isn't much difference. It slowly dawned on her that Gargul expected them all to speak. Pressi felt like she had done nothing but speak for a while now.

"Oh great and wonderous... Gargul? Is that formal enough? I'm admittedly a little out of my death... depth.," Pressi began. "I am Pressi Silverglove, humble monk and servant of Domi, come forward to... I'm sorry, I'm kind of used to more colorful services of singing and wrestling and all of this is throwing me off a bit. Some color would go a little further in... you know what, it's your show.

"If you are truly the god of life and death, then you already know this is not your ordinary plea to raise a fallen hero of worth, as much pain as his passing has caused us all. We come bearing witness and evidence to a necromancer who has struck three people before you. After the mysterious destruction of our defenses that led to some uncomfortable discoveries. After an incident where giants ritualistically murdered one of our clerics and claimed WE were the invaders. We come before you in search of guidance. To know if this is an unfortunate coincidence or the tip of an iceberg. And... and maybe to learn if it's true. If Humble's Ford really was built on sin. To know if our defenses really were built on the bodies of giants."

Pressi looks for Uthvas, motioning that they should untie him now. She also motions to Cameron to state his case.

Gargul in Judgement [ACDM SteveK]
Thursday July 14th, 2016 8:04:17 PM
Alleah and Shel speak of Murphy's large heart.

Bliss and Pressi speak of the sick and twisted necromancer that was the object of their quest.

Murphy, Kezzem, and Cameron stay silent

Tiana and Veseley babble and comfort as is their way, broken by the horrors of Koshe Marr.
....

The Gray Wanderer reaches out a hand, he doesn't move from the throne, but seems to be able to touch Triana and then Veseley who both cease their actions and appear to fall asleep. MARTEUS. MY BEST AND WORST CREATION. HEROES OF HUMBLES FORD HEAR ME. I HAVE BEFOGGED THIER MEMORY AND RETURNED THIER SANITY. THEY WILL AWAKEN WHEN THEY ONCE MORE ARE RETURNED TO HUMBLES FORD. ONLY YOU WILL KNOW OF WHAT THE WOLD MAY FACE IF MARTEUS DETHRONES ALEMI.

He looks at Bliss, and his finger touches the small bird on the forehead. How the giant Gargul can do this is as strange as touching others without leaning forward. Obviously, time and space seem to hold no barrier to the god. On the touch of his finger, Bliss returns to his halfling self. YOU ARE NO LONGER A BIRD. I THOUGHT I DETERMINED THAT BEFORE? YOUNG ONE, I NEVER TELL SOMEONE ELSES STORY. LET THAT ONE BE.

SPEAK MURPHY, KEZZEM, AND CAMERON. WHY SHOULD THIS SOUL BE WORTHY WHEN THOUSANDS ARRIVE EVERY DAY? And he questions all the heroes. WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE UP FOR A LIFE RETURNED?

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 38/53, CMD 22
Thursday July 14th, 2016 8:37:50 PM
Pressi just stared at the giant figure. "I don't understand the question. What... what would you even want that I could give you?"

AC 25 (T 17, FF 21) CMD 20 HP 61/61 Cameron (David)
Thursday July 14th, 2016 9:00:35 PM
OOC
Just got home, post will be before midnight.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 23*/15*/19* -- CMD 15 -- HP 43/45
Thursday July 14th, 2016 10:28:31 PM
"My lord. Matters of death are sacred to me. As your humble servant, I have prayed to ensure that every departed soul finds its way to you for judgement"

"If it would please you, I would gladly spend some of my morning rituals reflecting on your wisdom"

DM Highlight to display spoiler: {True story. Every time Alleah has been present when a living thing has been killed she has said a small prayer for them to find Gargul. Whether a giant spider, a goblin, or even a baker :) As for what she is offering now, I'm thinking of giving up 1 of her highest level spell slots every day for the next module?}

Gargul mentioning Marteus is enough to send a slight shiver down Alleah's spine. "Forgive my enquiring, my lord, but I also have a question. During our travels we reached Koshe Marr, and a boy died there. I tried to protect him, I truly did, but I failed him. His name was Rais, a goblin boy who had been snatched into a land he did not belong. Please, can you tell me if his soul found peace?" The memory of Koshe Marr and Rais' bloody death causes Alleah's eyes to well up. It takes all her strength to not openly weep in front of Gargul himself.

AC 25 (T 17, FF 21) CMD 20 HP 61/61 Cameron (David)
Thursday July 14th, 2016 11:40:02 PM
WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE UP FOR A LIFE RETURNED?
Indeed, what was Cameron ready to give up? He had thought about how little of his life made others happy, how little of the gift Gargul gave him he had used to help others. Now the Lord of Life and Death asked the same question. He had made a plan before coming here, but being in the empty throne room had made him reflect on his past. Now his thoughts came spilling out.
Cameron takes a step forward and raises his eyes. He should feel fear, but the conviction that he is doing the right thing is the only emotion he can feel now. Fear has been taken from him and locked away.
" What would we give? An interesting thought. The others have spoken highly of Murphy, yet you know everything about us already. You know that Murphy and I were often at odds. You know that he tried to accept me and I made that a difficult task. You know that he wanted something more than to free the wizards who were captive. What he wanted was the secret the necromancer held close and experimented on even right up to our intrusion in his home. He wanted to learn how to use Giant Essence to make the Crescent Valley impregnable to giants. You know that I thought it a perversion to take the life of one to prevent others from trespassing."
"In short you know we disagreed. Why then am I here? Perhaps that is still a mystery to you because it hasn't happened yet. Maybe because the things I set out to do here have changed from when I spoke of them in the Necromancer's putrid home. Let the mystery be revealed, let me speak of what I have decided I need to ask of you, and what I am willing to give up."
" I wish Murphy to be restored to the Wold. I want it for what I think are good reasons, I hope you do as well. Murphy gives. He gives of himself, he shares the Power that he is given as a druid and he looks to help others. In short he gives and I do not. That I live and he dies is not the way it should be. There is a great deal more good in him that needs to be returned to the Wold so that he can spread it."
"I also wish for Bliss to have something I once had but he does not. I wish for him to be reunited with his mother. She was a hero, far greater than I. She was condemned fo her love for Bliss and her unwillingness to let him die. She defied you and rightly, you punished her. My mother was taken from me, and all I do is harbor thoughts of revenge. Bliss harbors thoughts of hope and an unwillingness to let his actions bring death."
" What do we bring as an offering? Bound and helpless lies Uthvas in his putrid home in Bright Springs, defeated by our tiny hands. His acts have made a mockery of your sacred place among the gods. He steals life from one creature to make another. In this way he hoped to cheat you when it was his turn to die. I thought that might be enough when we left the Wold to come here. As we waited in your chamber for your arrival, I reflected on the decisions made in my life and the consequences of those decisions. Do you know what I learned? I have squandered your gift of life and only once used it to bring hope to others. One time in thirty-three years. What I am saying is that in addition to Uthvas, ripe for you to take and discipline for his misdeeds, I offer myself if you will consider the petitions I have set before you. My family are all gone, and my friends would be better off with the barain laid out here than with me by their side."
Thank you for hearing me out."
Cameron lowers his gaze and steps back into the crowd.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22 +1 (Haste) = 23, HP 56/56, CMD 20; Hero Points: 2; Bless, Haste
Friday July 15th, 2016 12:15:26 AM
"Murphy is good people, and he was taken too soon" says Kezzem. "There are those far less deserving, those that seek to pervert life and death to live unnatural lives by practicing foul magics. It was fighting against one such man that Murphy gave his life. How many souls would have been lost or corrupted had Murphy and his friends not stopped the man called Uthvas? How many more souls could be allowed to live and die natural lives if Murphy was restored to continue fighting against such vile men?"

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP ??/60 - (Kim) - Before Gargul's Throne
Friday July 15th, 2016 3:56:01 AM
Murphy to Gargul
"Though the last thing I prayed was that none of us should need to visit you too soon, Lord Gargul," [see post of Thursday June 16th, 2016 2:10:13 AM] "my own actions lead to my demise. As did those of a bad man."

Our Aim Against Evil Deeds, To Effect A Rescue, And Whom We Encountered
"We sought to rescue our town's kidnapped wizards, Veseley Vortence and Tiana Taithen," he says as he points his ghostly hand in their direction. "We are grateful you have touched them." He looks down at the ground, then off into the distance as he recalls, and tries to summarize - summarizing not being his strong suit. "We had asked for their return from Uthvas Bethud - who twists strangely life into a sort of breathing, putrescent animated living death. My friend Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper was the one who stated our desires clearly to the necro-taxidermist's familiar, a homonculus. But Uthvas had his familiar lock us away in a pitch-black room, rather than honoring us with a reply. After some time had passed, we managed to get out, and decided to go in search of Uthvas' victims, including our friends. A druid, I had changed into the form of a bat, then went into gaseous form so as to bypass doors behind which he locked his victims and the components of his dark arts.

"As we worked our way further in for the rescue, Uthvas' monsters attacked us. I was able to pass through a door into another darkened room, and was struck by a blow. Thinking to find a way to continue to find Tiana and Veseley, I continued as fast as I was able, going low along the walls, hoping to find another doorway, or further passage.

"The blows continued to rain down upon me, and a sickly voice spoke. It was Uthvas Bethud himself, telling his ... his rotted flesh giants to strike me. He gave me contradictory instructions. If I did not speak, he would kill me - though I was trying to speak with him in my bat form, he did not understand. If I moved, he would have his putrid giants kill me. I must transform, so I could speak. If I transformed, that would count as movement, and they would kill me.

"Soon likely to be dead one way or another, I thought there was at least a tiny chance of escape. I changed into an earth elemental, then tried immediately to sink into the stone floor. I thought that way I might further look for our wizards. Yet two large clubs struck my new form instantly, and my body was killed. Then Uthvas commanded his decaying abominations to smear my, my own halfling body all around the floor of the room as he cackled, wearing red lipstick and some sort of lady's dress, and coughing horribly.

After Dying...
"Within the room, as I looked down upon the necro-taxidermist and his abominations, there were a number of spirits - black in filmy substance. They counseled me towards bitterness and hatred and revenge. I challenged them toward love of good, of justice, of rescue, of mercy. I prayed to the good Lords and Powers above, to let light shine into darkness, and that darkness be overcome by light.

"Some of the dark spirits heeded my message. I saw my own insubstantial self change from grey to white - as did those who heard and accepted what I said. These now white souls touched Woldsblood, and entered into the afterlife, leaving behind bitterness, as best as I can tell. Others recoiled from me, choosing to dwell in hatred, seeking dark vengeance, remaining in the room, and loathing Uthvas.

"Now, I must say that my friend Alleah had earlier counseled me not to go off exploring on my own. Yet I thought that a bit of advanced scouting might allow us better to rescue the prisoners. But she was right in this case. I ought to have retreated when first struck on entering the room. Had I done so, I may have avoided disturbing you with our presence here." He thinks a bit, then adds, "But, then, I would likely have had no hand in easing some souls into a better direction."

Were he in his physical form, Murphy would now be taking a deep breath.

Murphy's Apologia
"Why should my soul be deemed worthy? I must leave it up to you as to whether that be the case or no. I can tell you only why I wish to be granted to live and serve in the Wold with my friends, and for my community. Halflings are small folk. Though we have many friends, also we have some foes. We strive to protect our community, to make it possible for normal folks to live, love, plant and grow, seek for peace and prosperity. I would live for that ongoing purpose.

"And I would live for love of my family, and love of my friends, who here surround me. Yes, I know, many who enter these realms have loved ones. I can claim nothing unique in that regard - other than each love adds its own spark to the light of life.

"What would I give for a life - my life - returned? I would give my ongoing devotion to the gods and powers of goodness in the Wold. Not give up, as in quitting, but give forth, as in deepening. You spoke, Lord Gargul, of Marteus," and he almost goes to spit, as is the custom of his family at mention of that name, but on this occasion merely purses his lips and briefly turns his head to the side, "and his aims. I serve most directly Lord Eberyon, yet also I honor Alemi, Domi, and Flower, and others, and you. Should the Lord of Kash Marre ever draw close to overcoming Good Alemi - I should do all in my tiny power to aid the latter. My own siblings helped draw down the power of Eberyon when first he was reborn in the Culverwood, after he showed his murderous wrath. I serve him now with joy, as he repented, and reformed, and now brings great blessing to the Wold, keeping large parts of it verdant, and brimming with life.

"I know not whether Marteaus ever would turn himself around from his dark purposes. You would ken such things with far clearer insight than I possess. I do believe in repentence, and redemption - though I am not so sanguine as to think all will avail themselves of such.

"I also will give myself to Crescent Valley, and its weal.

"Is there something more you would ask of me? Give me a righteous task, that brings benefit to the Wold, and lies within my small power, and I shall endeavor to carry it out." As a momentary afterthough, he thinks to inquire as a small aside, "Also, if you have any direction as to what to do with Uthvas, your counsel would be most welcome."

He appreciates all that his friends have said. But as it is their custom to disagree from time to time, he adds one thing. "Cameron here said we would be better off without him by our side. I must gainsay my friend on that count. He has shown his worth many times over. Total agreement with another may be pleasant, but I find disagreements to be enlightening, and strengthening. I have needed some knocking down. As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. I value him." He looks at each of his friends. "I value greatly each of these my friends, whom I love." And, had a disembodied soul tears to shed, several would now be trickling down his cheeks.

Awaiting Judgment
He turns back to his Judge. "Lord Gargul, it lies in your hand whether I journey now to the lands of rest, or some other destination, or return to the fray of the Wold. Any counsel you give, I shall heed." He bows on both knees before him, looking at the foot of Gargul's throne, awaiting his decision.

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP ??/60 - (Kim) - Kneeling Thoughts
Friday July 15th, 2016 4:07:59 AM

As he kneels, awaiting Lord Gargul's decision, Murphy thinks he ought have addressed each of his friends individually. What if he is sent further on his journey now to the lands of rest? To not have spoken to each of his appreciation before such a parting? To... ah, Murphy, there is a time to stop. Now quiet your mind.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53, CMD 22
Friday July 15th, 2016 11:17:32 AM
Pressi begins to speak again about the dangers that their home and the world face from the undead - and that she is sure is interconnected, About how he has been the group's leader from the first day. About how he is needed to save the world.

It doesn't last. She begins to pour out how they met. How she was a woman struggling with her own identity and mistrust, and sure that anything she ever got could be taken in an instant. How she had been a monk for some time, but it was Murphy that taught her faith. How she wasn't sure she could ever find love or friendship before she met this group.

How she failed, leading to his death. How it was her change in plans that brought them inside. How Murphy went to the door because she approached it - but got distracted. How Alleah counseled against Murphy going forward, and she was the one who counseled for. How she let herself be filled with anger and vengeance and pride and so so many things to make up for.

But Pressi is not one to avoid swinging for the fences, so she requests more than Murphy's life. She asks for Bliss' question answered, for Cameron to finally receive what he wants (besides vengeance) and to know peace and hope (preferably while living), to know what Gargul knows about the gates and history of the valley, to know what Marteus has to do with anything.

And, in return, Pressi admits that Gargul can ask pretty much whatever he wants and she will say yes, so she is relying on his sense of fairness when he names his price. "I offer of you the one thing I most value, the one thing I guard above all else. I offer you... my very identity."

DM spoiler Highlight to display spoiler: {Gargul chooses one or more monk vows (Paizo --> Ultimate Magic --> Spellcasting Options --> Class Archetypes. This vow runs from level 8 to level 9, and she gets the benefits and the weaknesses. In the alternate (Gargul needs more, the PTB will not allow), Pressi will allow Gargul to make a single level up choice up to and including class if we really get a large chunk of exposition. (If the changes are outside of core or retroactive, they last a year. Otherwise, they are permanent.)}

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle)
Friday July 15th, 2016 4:22:23 PM
The God speaks to the party and says, "WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE UP FOR A LIFE RETURNED?"

Bliss's first thought goes to his bah. "I made it myself! It's always in my hand or at my side, even when I'm sleeping. I use it in every fight. But I'd give it up for Mister Murphy." He opens his mouth to say this, but before he can, Bliss gasps to hear Miss Alleah ask about the goblin boy. Wasn't she listening? Master had just said, that he never tells someone else's story. Bliss hopes Gargul is not angry at her for asking.

And then Cam says he inspired hope only one time ever. "That's not true!" thinks Bliss. "I remember times ..." but before he can make a list in his head, Bliss struggle to understand what Cam says next. He would give up HIMSELF! What does that mean? He would go away, maybe die, like Bliss's mom did? That's not right! Bliss opens his mouth again to object ...

... when he feels a sharp beak poke him hard! Mookie felt his determination to say something, maybe something not so wise, and warns him, painfully. Bliss pauses ...

Then he thinks again. Is his bah really his most treasured thing? Well, honestly, what about that little statue he has of his mom in her adventurer pose? It is the only image he has of her. Once it was magical and even talked in her voice. Now it is silent, but Bliss wouldn't give it up for anything.

Or would he? Would he for Mister Murphy? Uh oh, Murphy has found his voice. He looks better as a ghost than as a schmeer on the floor, Bliss thinks, but he does talk so, going on and on, even in front of a god. Well, Murphy wouldn't be Murphy if he didn't! And anyway, it's a good story Murphy tells. Bliss thinks someone oughta write it down to tell again later and keep somewhere safe. And then Murphy starts talking about philosophy. He's going to reform Marteus? He will give up his devotion to all those gods? What the gosh golly is he offering for his own life? Bliss can't suss it out.

At least Pressi is to the point and pretty clear. She says she will give up her ... 'identity'? Wowsy, what does that mean? She would have a new personality? Or no personality, like a golem? Would Gargul even WANT someone's 'identity'? How funny is that? Bliss might giggle, just thinking about it, but in the front of his mind he knows that would not be wise.

Then, finally, there is a pause, and it is time for Bliss to open his mouth. He thinks for a second about offering his bah and his little statue, but those seem like pretty small change compared to offering his personality or his life or promising to try to reform Marteus. That last one still puzzles him. Well, here goes ...

Bliss bows to the god of life and death. "Master, I am already your servant. All you might claim of me is already yours to request. Ask, and it is yours, sir, for Mister Murphy's life or for any reason." The little halfling hopes that's good enough.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39
Friday July 15th, 2016 6:05:07 PM
"Well, I've always heard stories about you gods needing mortals to help you with things On the material plane that you don't have the time or the want to to handle. Of course, we'd be happy to help you with those tasks. We fight and argue a bit, but when chips are down, we are quite an effective little group. There's a lot of ways we could help you."

Gargul in Judgement [ACDM SteveK]
Friday July 15th, 2016 9:37:40 PM
Alleah speaks of giving Gargul more prayers, then asks for the fate of the young goblin boy. The Gray Traveller shakes his head. I NEED NO GROVELLING. And maybe the eyes under the hood sparkle in sadness? NO ONE IS TOLD ANOTHER'S STORY. AND IN KOSHE MARR, NOT EVEN I AM LORD OF THE GATE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH. EVEN THE DEAD OF THAT REALM BELONG TO MARTEUS.

Kezzem speaks of Murphy's noble sacrifice against a vile villain. THERE ARE ALWAYS VILLAINS AND HEROES. AND IT IS NOT NOBLE TO LEAVE YOUR FRIENDS INTO UNCERTTAIN DANGER.

Cameron tells Gargul what the God knows, asks for Murphy's life back and Bliss being able to see his foster mother, and then offers the bound Uthvas ready for Gargul's judgement in exchange. YOU PRESUME TOO MUCH. HUBRIS I NAME THEE TO SPEAK OF BARGAINS. YOU OFFER ANOTHERS LIFE BEFORE TIME? NO.

Murphy gives a dissertation, eventually offering his life to the gods, offering himself to the protection of Creseant Valley, and is willing to accept any task given by the Gray One. Finally, he accepts the advice of Gargul in his heart. The Gray One seems ready to chastise Murphy until the very last. I MEED NO OFFERING. BUT TO BRING ADVICE INTO YOUR HEART...

Pressi admits her failings of anger and the need for vengeance, and offers her very identity. She also requests more than Murphy's life. She asks for Bliss' question answered, for Cameron to finally receive what he wants (besides vengeance) and to know peace and hope (preferably while living), to know what Gargul knows about the gates and history of the valley, to know what Marteus has to do with anything! YOU OFFER THE BARGAIN OF GAAL, BEWARE LITTLE ONE.

Bliss states he already is the Gateway Lord's servant. The little sniper asks for Gargul to ask anything for Mister Murphy's life or for any reason! The Gray Wanderer merely states then looks on.

Shel suggests a task, but more like an agreement over an ale and a quid pro quo than talking to a diety of the Wold. Gargul puts up his hand. ENOUGH. And he momentarily rubs his temples. ONCE AGAIN I GET GROVELLING AND PLEDGES FOR EVERYTHING MIXED WITH BARGAINS AND FAVORS.
......

The Gray Lord straightens. I AM GARGUL. THERE IS NO TASK OR BARGAIN OR WORSHIP THAT I NEED. THERE IS NO GIFT I NEED FROM YOU. BUT LET IT BE KNOWN THAT SMALL BODIES MAY HOLD LARGE HEARTS. NOW LISTEN TO MY JUDGEMENT.

ALLEAH, DO NOT SPEND EXTRA TIME TO CONTEMPLATE ME BUT YOUR COMPANIONS. THEY ARE YOUR STRENGTH.

KEZZEM, SUPPORT EACH OTHER, WHERE LAY TRUE VALUE.

CAMERON, YOU WILL LEARN HUMILITY. YOU OFFER A LIFE AND I ACCEPT... YOURS. YOU WILL STAY HERE AS A LIVING BUT SILENT SERVANT.

MURPHY, RETURN TO YOUR BODY AND THE WOLD. REMEMBER YOUR STRENGTH IS NOT IN YOU, NOT IN YOUR FAMILY, BUT IN YOUR FRIENDS HERE. BEFORE YOU SEEK ASSISTANCE ELSEWHERE, SEEK IN THE HUMBLE'S SWORD.

PRESSI, YOUR INTENTIONS ARE GOOD BUT BEWARE OF OFFERINGS THAT ARE MORE THAN YOU CAN AFFORD. (Noticeably, the Gray Lord doesn't answer any of Pressi's other questions)

BLISS, THERE WILL COME A TIME WHEN YOU CAN STAY SAFELY HIDDEN, BUT YOUR FRIENDS WILL NEED YOU SEEN. REMEMBER.

SHEL. NOT ALL PROBLEMS ARE NAILS. LEARN MORE THAN ONE WAY.

........

The Gray Fog. [ACDM SteveK]
Friday July 15th, 2016 9:40:54 PM
As Gargul stops speaking the gray fog billows up and surrounds the heroes, Triana and Veseley

Murphy's poor mangled body knits together and Murphy himself feels drawn towards the still form until he takes a first shuddering breath!

But Cameron is gone.

(OOC: turning the Board back over to your DMs!)

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 60/60 - (Kim) - Knit Together, Among the Living
Friday July 15th, 2016 10:41:57 PM

My Murphy thinks as he works initially to begin to breathe once again. He is braced by the foggy air, and cannot see more than a few feet about him.

Friends stand nearby. Can he see any longer the rivulets of Woldsblood? Are they still near the foot of Gargul's throne? Or are they returned to Uthvas' laboratory - or on the return journey for a spell?

Regardless where they are, he reaches out and gives Pressi a big hug, then brings in Shel and Kezzem, then Bliss and Alleah. And Mookie.

"Thank you, my friends." He faces back. "Thank you, Lord Gargul."

He sighs. "Cameron, though often a goad, I shall miss. I pray we travel together with him in due course."

He looks to the sleeping Tiana and Veseley. "It looks to be a long trip back. And some business to attend to before our trip." He sees the faces which have become so familiar. "Did that not fill you with awe? I must find words - though words be inadequate for some matters."

He pulls from his haversack a few pieces of paper, a bottle of ink, and a pen. He begins to write a very abbreviated version of what they just went through, and he went through, before details begin to fade from memory. Several times he just jots a quick word or phrase to serve as an anchor to his memory, to return to and fill out when circumstances allow him more time. He especially notes those things said by Gargul, and the things his friends said while before the august Gatekeeper.

Soon they must deal with Uthvas - and Hammish Iron Fist. Hope they can save and free the poor giant. And get the...

He stops, puts his paper and ink and pen back within his haversack. "I am sorry, Alleah."

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle)
Friday July 15th, 2016 11:39:39 PM

Bliss, wet-eyed, looks around without seeing anything. "Mookie, I think" -- sniff -- "I think that was bad."

Mookie flutters over to Bliss and looks him straight in the eye, "Kid, you need a reality check. Are you dead? Are you?!"

"No."

Are you maimed or mutilated in any way?"

"No."

"Did you lose anything or pay anything or promise to do anything?"

"No."

"Did you get your dead friend back?"

"Um, yes."

"Did a god pat you on the head and take away your curse?"

"Well, yes, but I liked being a bird."

"HUSH! Your god pat you on the head and took away your curse! You goose -- you can use your own spells to change into a bird. You don't need a necromancer to do it for you. You got off light! I think He likes you!"

"But! But ... Mookie!"

The little halfling starts to bawl.

"What about CAM?!"

Mookie puts his head under his wing.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 23*/15*/19* -- CMD 15 -- HP 43/45
Saturday July 16th, 2016 12:47:05 AM
Alleah smiles and reaches out a hand to place on Murphy's shoulder "You're back in the land of the living now. That's all that matters to me"

She goes quiet for a moment. Gargul didn't directly answer he question, but he did nudge her towards the realisation that Rais' soul may never find peace. It is a sombre moment as she wonders what endless nightmare the boy might still be going through. All she can do now is make sure the same fate doesn't befall anyone else.

"I think I've had about enough of this place." Alleah says to the party. She then adds somewhat softly "I want to go home"

"Let's search this place as quickly as we can before the guards come in. The more proof we find of Uthvas' wrong-doings, the more likely the guards will let us off"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22 +1 (Haste) = 23, HP 56/56, CMD 20; Hero Points: 2; Bless, Haste d20+13=26 ;
Saturday July 16th, 2016 1:48:00 AM
"I'll get on that," says Kezzem. "And also, if anyone happens to find an extra pair of pants, I could use a new pair."

Perception: 26

AC 25 (T 17, FF 21) CMD 20 HP 61/61 Cameron (David)
Saturday July 16th, 2016 11:42:56 AM
Cameron raises his hand wand waves goodbye as the mist starts to rise. He does not dare to even try to say goodbye aloud after hearing Gargul's pronouncement that he need learn humility and serve as a Silent servant.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39 11d20+10=141 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+10=25 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+10=16 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+10=12 ; d20+10=29 ;
Saturday July 16th, 2016 11:49:32 PM
OOC: in the DM's Wednesday post there were eleven magical items taken from the necromancer. I'm going to give 11 Spellcraft rolls in order that the DM mentioned the items. Those will be listed above. Never mind the 141. I goofed on that one.

Shel smiled as she broke form the hug shared with now returned Murphy and everyone else. "I think going home is the best idea I've ever heard. I wonder if Alouryn would even believe all we went through here?"

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle) d20+6=21 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+6=25 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=8 ; d20+6=25 ;
Sunday July 17th, 2016 9:35:37 AM

Mookie tries to distract Bliss from his grief. "Kid, dry your eyes. Your friends need you. Go help Shel with all that loot."

Bliss sighs and follows the command. He casts Guidance each time Shel looks at an item -- that's a +1 on each roll (added below). And he prays and lookshimself, too! Spellcraft checks 21, 7, 16, 19, 8, 7, 9, 25, 23, 8, and 25.

So for the 11 items, so far the best of two rolls are:

26 (Shel)
20 (Shel)
27 (Shel)
26 (Shel)
26 (Shel)
16 (Shel)
17 (Shel)
28 (Shel)
23 (Bliss!)
13 (Shel)
30 (Shel)

Maybe Alleah can study items 6, 7, and 10?

"I did it, Mookie!" declares Bliss.

The raven answers, "Good job, Kid."

Then Bliss says, "OH WAIT! There's this treasure too!" He pulls the Symbol of Marteus SLASH +2 amulet of natural armor out from under his shirt and adds it to the loot pile.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39
Sunday July 17th, 2016 8:53:08 PM
"You seem to be getting much better at magic, Bliss. We've been so caught up with everything going crazy, I haven't had a chance to tell you. It's very impressive, though!"

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 23*/15*/19* -- CMD 15 -- HP 43/45
Sunday July 17th, 2016 11:07:41 PM
Alleah nods, and then wordlessly has a go at identifying the mystery items.

---------------------
Cast Detect Magic
Cast Guidance
Alleah will Take10 on her spellcraft checks, for a result of 23 on identifying everything

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 60/60 - (Kim) - Knit Together, Among the Living d20+7=17 ; d20+7=22 ; d20+7=10 ; d8+1=8 ; d20+22=37 ;
Monday July 18th, 2016 2:39:52 AM

As Cameron waved goodbye in the rising mists, Murphy returned the wave. "Farewell, Cameron!" Amidst the rush of many emotions upon the return of his life and breath, a lump arises in his throat as he considers the offer that Cameron made, and the acceptance by Lord Gargul. After the Avenger disappears from sight, the druid shakes his head, knowing he will need to process that later.

===========

"Yes, I look forward to seeing again Alouryn and Hazel," he responds with warmth to Shel's comment as the group hug breaks apart.

Murphy next ensures that the necro-taxidermist is still bound and gagged, and tightens the bonds as necessary. If Uthvas is uncomfortable, this does not bother Murphy at all. He does smile at the stamped "Bad Guy" on his forehead.

"Sword - we have the following things to accomplish in a very short amount of time, besides figuring out magic items - though that is useful, too - but we should probably pack them away for the moment, lest someone barge in as we inspect them. In no particular order, they include:

- The search Alleah suggested, and Kezzem agreed to. More on that in a moment
- Wake up and ensure well-being of the giant - can Shel and I work on that?
- Ensure Uthvas is dealt with - and how?
- Gather materials for repair of the towers. [Murphy does not say this, but most should be able to figure out he means the essence of giants]
- Consider disposition of Uthvas' tools in the dark arts - books and scrolls and materials
- Prepare to deal wisely with those who wait outside

"Alleah and Kezzem - as part of your search, would you two care to deal with Uthvas? You two have proven skills. Learn where all of the essence is found here. Find out if he has kept a journal of his experiments - might be useful for prosecution - tuck such away in a good spot.
"Mookie - can you keep an ear out for noises from outside, and let Bliss know?
"Bliss, along with listening for Mookie's reports, feel free to help out wherever you want - whether helping us with the giant, or looking for books, or what have you.
"Shel - would you help me with the giant?" He suggests removing the tube, carefully carrying the receptacle to a safe corner, corking it or covering it as well as possible, using one of his herbal bandages to cure ... 8 hp for the giant, then seeing if he comes awake. Murphy can speak to him in the giant tongue.
"Oh, the possessions of Veseley and Tiana - let's see if we can find those. Maybe ask the guy with lipstick."
"And... the teardrop that Veseley used to communicate with us. Should one of us get in touch with Mayor Bingo Bumbleluck to let him know we have those we sought, but still have obstacles?"

[The rolls were going to be for spellcraft to help with the three items, but with others working on them, feel free to skip the 17, 22, and 10. The d8+1=8 is for the giant healing. Perception: 37

[DM Mark (or, someone else?): With those things listed above, if Murphy has tried to swallow too much, just pull me back...]

Dm Shawn - TPk coming in 5....4....3....2....1
Monday July 18th, 2016 5:31:35 AM
The gray mists dissipate and leave the group with one less member, but an alive and aleft Murphy.

The first thing the group notices is no necromancer. Uthvas is nowhere to be seen and his bonds are torn to shreds and laying on the floor where the necromncer once was.

Shel, Alleah, Bliss and Murphy go through the magical items.the items are as follows:

Injectible potions of cure moderate wounds (2), Injectible potion of displacement,
Injectible potion of invisibility,
robe of blending
masterwork dagger
amulet of natural
armor +3
belt of mighty constitution +2
cloak of resistance +2
goggles of night
headband of vast intelligence +2
crystal for magic jar (worth 100 gp)

Outside some shouting is heard but becomes real quiet all of a sudden.

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 60/60 - (Kim) - Knit Together, Among the Living d20+22=25 ;
Monday July 18th, 2016 6:46:24 AM

Murphy hears the sudden quiet, then says, "Let us free the giant, get the essence, gather what evidence we may. Finding our wizards' gear would be a bonus, but I'm not holding my breath - though with the stench, holding one's breath might be advisable. Then see if giant is well enough to carry our two companions, and figure out how to face what is outside.

"I could change into an earth elemental, work my way up the rocks behind us, then peek out at who and what are outside, unless someone else has a suggestion. Or, maybe someone could attempt to peek through a window slat. However, unless there's an objection, I'm going to help the giant first."

Murphy takes out of his haversack a trio of sunrods, an everburning torch, and a bandage. He hands the sunrods to whoever wants one, "Strike the rod to get two hours of light," he says tersely, then goes to where the giant lies. He finds the tube, readies the bandage, with care removes the needle/tube from the arm or body of the giant (not sure where it was placed), and places a bandage on the spot (cure wounds 8 hp). He places the container in a safe corner. "Can someone cork or plug or cover this, and save it?" In giant he says, "It is time to wake up. We wish to rescue you, and can use your help."

"I wonder whether Trill was able to find us a lawyer," Murphy mumbles as he tries to revive the giant. He does not mumble as he comments, "Say, I have many thunderstones, acid, alchemists fire, oil, smokesticks, tanglefoot bags, holy water - five or more of each. They probably brought the front gate undead giant guard. If someone wants to dig through my bag, take what you want." He pushes on the giant's arm. "Wake up." To his friends he adds, "And pray!"

[Perception: 25]

[Welcome back, Shawn - am assuming we're not yet in combat rounds, thus Murphy's flurry of activity. Question: Does Murphy have the spells he has not cast today?]

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 60/60 - (Kim) - Knit Together, Among the Living
Monday July 18th, 2016 6:49:29 AM

"Ah, antitoxin!" Murphy adds, withdraws some from his haversack, and pours it down the giant's throat. "Maybe that will help."

Dm Shawn - TPk coming in 5....4....3....2....1
Monday July 18th, 2016 11:44:31 AM
Ooc: Yes. Not in combat, and you have your uncast spells.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53, CMD 22 d20+13=32 ; d20+13=27 ; d20+13=14 ;
Monday July 18th, 2016 2:32:08 PM
Pressi held on to Murphy tight during the hug, as teammate after teammate surrounded them. It had been tough. As joyful as she was that Murphy wasn't dead, she couldn't shake Bliss' feeling that they had somehow failed. Almost as if they had gotten the prize anyway.

She would have much to think about, in regards to how he had acted under pressure. Later. They weren't done yet.

"I think it goes without saying that I'd rather not fight the guards, even if they strike first," Pressi reminded them. "They are still the force of law in this town, and its not like they don't have a point. Personally, I'd love to just grab that teleport scroll and get us out of here."

She forced herself to consider their situation. Uthvas was gone, and it looked like Veseley and Tiana were unconscious, so no witnesses (unless they could get the giant to cooperate). "I think we're going to need an idea of whether we lie our way out. They may not have the view of constructs that we do."

Perception Rolls as Pressi walks through the house helping to find evidence: 32 for the statues to see if there is anything left that is evidence or treasure. 27 in Uthvas' bedroom with a focus on the documents. Natural 1 for the room with the chest in it.

She does also wonder about the unnatural quiet. She considers opening the shutters to peek out but thinks better of it.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39
Monday July 18th, 2016 3:36:36 PM
Shel moves over to assist Murphy with the bigun. "He's awful big, Murphy. What if he wakes up angry? I really don't want to try to get him back under control if he does," Shel worries, knowing most of her relations with biguns hasn't gone especially well.

Murphy CMD 17 AC 16 HP 60/60 - (Kim) - Knit Together, Among the Living
Monday July 18th, 2016 3:57:43 PM

"So, do we teleport back to the stables?" Murphy asks Pressi, only partially facetious.

"Hey, has anyone found any containers labeled with what we're looking for?" If the container that was attached to the giant can be covered, sealed well enough, he asks Alleah if she can put it in her bag of holding.

"It could happen, Shel. Duck under the table if need be," Murphy answers the beautiful sorcerer. "Hey, Big Guy - this is Shel and Murphy. We chased off the mean man who has been doing this to you. Wake up. Let's help each other out!"

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle) d20+17=34 ;
Monday July 18th, 2016 5:00:25 PM

Bliss smiles and wipes his eyes on his sleeve. "Mister Murphy, I sure am glad to see you again!"

He listens to everything and then follows his orders. He starts backtracking through the mansion, looking for books. Looking for anything, honestly. He casts detect magic and tries to scan just about everywhere.

Mookie just follows along.

Perception 34

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22 +1 (Haste) = 23, HP 56/56, CMD 20; Hero Points: 2; Bless, Haste d20+13=29 ;
Monday July 18th, 2016 5:42:55 PM
Kezzem looks around for any sign of Uthvas (tracks, etc.).

Perception: 29.

"That rapscallion gone and skedaddled! If you can't trust an evil necromancer who tortures your friends, who can you trust? Quite a bit of people I assume, come to think about it, but still!"

Bliss (AC27, HP44of47) & Mookie (AC19, HP23) (Cayzle)
Monday July 18th, 2016 6:14:02 PM

Bliss says to Kezzem, in a whisper, "Um, uh, I don't think so! I think Master Gargul took care of him for us!"

AC 25 (T 17, FF 21) CMD 20 HP 61/61 Cameron (David)
Monday July 18th, 2016 10:47:13 PM
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