The Horror Rot (DMJK) Wednesday January 29th, 2003 11:36:47 AM
Bill only finds 3 empty small vials. The rest are filled with potions or Elmo's blood (there are 27 of these). Items are packed up, put away, cleaned off, or destroyed as you see fit. Renik feels the potion surge through his body like it did some good. Folks are healed, and the group moves on.
Jared leads the way out to the entrance where he came in because it's closer. On the way out, the party passes an open doorway. The room beyond is pitch black and has a different feeling than the rest of the catacombs. It's almost as if the necromancer's taint didn't sully that room.
Elmo sees the group pause, "Oh no. Don't go in there. That was the one room in this place that necromancer was afraid of going into. I heard him talken to that other fella about it when they dragged me down here. Said a Horror Rot lived in there. I don't know what a horror rot is, but it can't be good."
Renik d20+7=14 Wednesday January 29th, 2003 1:46:04 PM
"A Horror Rot? Intriguing..." The rogue's natural sense of self preservation does battle with his curiosity, and loses hands down.
"If it's something even a lich-wannabe necromancer is scared of, then it stands to reason we should go and investigate it" opines the rogue, bypassing the torturing of logic and opting instead for simply clubbing it over the head until it lies down and stops interfering. "I mean, it would never do to let something that dangerous alone. Sooner or later someone would be bound to come along and let their curiosity get the better of them, and then where would you be?"
He peers into the darkness, then turns to his companions. "Can anyone make anything out in there?" (listen 14)
Feng (19 down) Wednesday January 29th, 2003 4:17:44 PM
Feng summons up his divine strength and performs remove disease on Rond. "If anybody else has been affected by the mummy please let me know. Be sure because I can only cure disease once more for another seven days."
Feng turns and looks into the darkness, switching his eyes over to darkvision. There might be something back there, but Feng can only see so far.
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday January 29th, 2003 5:48:33 PM
"Thank you, Feng," Bill says.
"Look, if we're going to do something like that," he says as the group considers looking at the 'horror rot,' "let's make sure we are all healed up first, don't you think? Hobbes, I offered you these four scrolls of cure light wounds. Use them - and one of them on me, if that'd be okay. I'm right here. Just follow the sound of my voice."
[Since we are not in combat, for purposes of healing, you should be able to use all four scrolls in one post, but take care of other healing, as appropriate. In one minute, ten healings could be accomplished, and we've had far more time than that.]
He pulls out from his bag several foot-long, gold-tipped iron rods. He strikes one on the ground. It provides clear light in a 30-foot radius (and should glow 6 hours).
"Here's one for each of you," the halfling announces. He lays seven sunrods on the ground, and steps away so that people can see them. "Maybe toss a couple inside - hit the tips first, so the light comes on - if you want to see better. Watch the ceiling. I'm waiting until I feel better, first. And maybe we should just leave now, and come back later to deal with this. If it's been here since before Elmo arrived, I'd be surprised if it leaves before tomorrow."
Jared d20+15=16 d20+9=25 d20+7=19 d20+9=29 d20+9=28 d20+9=17 d20+9=19 Wednesday January 29th, 2003 6:13:00 PM
"A horror rot?"
Jared considers if he has heard of such a creature, or if such a name rings a bell.
Draax Wednesday January 29th, 2003 11:43:16 PM
Draax take a peek toward the room that Elmo said held the Horror Rot. Having no idea what a Horror Rot is he would rather avoid it, but he smiles when Renik says that words that he knew someone in the group would say. He knows that if they walk pass this thing and then something started happening to the town's people, he would carry that guilt with him for long time. He still feels the guilt from giving Marteaus the ring and remembers the destruction that happened after taking the easy way out of that situation.
Draax picks up one of the gold-tipped iron rods that Bill placed on the floor and then imitates the halflings actions to make it glow.
"If we have the means to heal everyone now and unless someone has an idea of what this thing is. I say we confront it now. Although the word rot makes me think of disease and decay, I still would not like to leave something with a name like that and not at least see if it is a threat. My suggestion would be for Bill to wait here with Elmo, the rest of you guys ready your missile weapons and magic, I throw the light stick into the room, and if the thing is hostile you guys kill it before it kills me. Hopefully the darkness is not magical. And if we learned anything from the last battle, it is to not be so close to each other that the thing can get everyone with one blast. Just my suggestion, what do you guys say?"
Draax hold the glowing rod in one hand and his shield in the other, he is ready to throw the rod into the room, pull his sword and confront whatever it is. He waits for the groups decision.
Rond -7 Thursday January 30th, 2003 1:27:30 AM
Having been helped out by Feng and Hobbes Rond thanks both of them.
When the group hears about the Rot Rond gnaws on his lip for a second before he falls in line with Renik. "I think we're basically healthy. I don't see why we shouldn't investigate and clear it out if we can. Either by letting it free or taking care of it. I'm unsure as to whether the enemy of my enemy is a friend, or what."
Hobbes Thursday January 30th, 2003 5:21:12 AM
Hobbes completes his healing tasks, then turns toward the direction of the door.
"We do indeed need to vanquish this foe, once Elmo is safe...but ONLY after Elmo is safe."
[Awaiting a response before I waste time with lots of spellcasting]
DMJK Thursday January 30th, 2003 9:43:55 AM
Renik doesn't see anything as he peers inside, and Bill lays out his sunrods while cautioning the group to not be too hasty.
Jared has never heard of a horror rot, but he has heard of a hook horror, a gigantic fierce buglike beast that lives in dark caverns. Perhaps a horror rot is related to that creature. Or perhaps it is an undead hook horror.
Bill lights up a sunrod and Draax follows suit.
Rond feels better though he didn't really know that he was starting to feel bad.
Hobbes argues for taking Elmo home before checking on the Horror Rot, and Elmo seems happy to comply.
[I assume that everyone that needed healing had time for it back in the wizard's lair. Everyone's healed to max as far as I'm concerned, and we can start the new module with a clean slate.]
Jared Thursday January 30th, 2003 11:57:07 AM
Does that include spell selections? I may make a few changes to my standard list.
Renik Thursday January 30th, 2003 12:04:46 PM
Reluctantly Renik agrees with Hobbes. "Aye, you're right, priest. Come, let's get Elmo home safe, then return to investigate this... whatever it is."
Draax Thursday January 30th, 2003 8:30:30 PM
Draax gets ready to toss the glowing rod into the room, but pauses as he listens to Hobbes and Renik. He shakes his head and lets out a long sigh. After hearing Hobbes' declaration it would be very insensitive to not take Elmo to safety. He spins the glowing rod in his hand for a few seconds before handing the stick back to Bill. "Sorry about wasting one of your sticks, but I guess we better see Elmo home."
Draax figures he can bear with putting his curiosity to the side or at least letting it wait for a few days. Besides they have done what they came here to do, but he hopes leaving now will not come back to haunt them.
Rond Friday January 31st, 2003 1:32:52 AM
"Do we want to post a guard on this door, so we can make sure that this 'thing' won't wander away while we take care of escorting Elmo back to safety? Or do the Seven adventurers try to protect Elmo and take care of this thing now?"
Bill Troublefinder Friday January 31st, 2003 2:20:48 AM
Bill tells Draax he can just keep the sunrod. After hearing some of the discussion, he just says, "Oh, shoot." He strikes another sunrod. Floating in the air his friends see two bright points. He positions himself at the edge of the opening, floating horizontally, as though lying on his side in bed. He sticks a rod inside the room, to look around. If he cannot see the light of the rod, he figures there is a darkness spell and reports that. If he can make out anything, he'll toss the rod sidearm on into the room, so as to extend the range of the lit up area. If he sees something by the light before he tosses, he won't aim at it - he's just trying to toss the light to the floor.
Clang! - perhaps the iron rod sounds, should it hit hard stone. Or does it make another sound?
The rod - dmjk Friday January 31st, 2003 12:19:46 PM
Just when it seems that everyone will take Elmo back, Bill sticks his sunrod into the room. The light helps a bit, and he can make out a room carved in stone. It appears older than the rest of the catacomb, or if not older, it at least displays more craftsmanship.
He tosses the rod inside, and it clangs as it hits the ground. It helps to light up the room better. Bill can make out another sarcophagus in the center of the room. The lid has been lifted off and lies cracked on the ground. Judging by the rubble, it happened a very long time ago.
Almost immediately after the clang, a voice booms out from the center of the room, "I THOUGHT THAT I HAD MADE IT CLEAR TO YOU THAT YOU WERE NOT TO ENTER THIS ROOM, NECROMANCER! BEGONE! I WANT NONE OF YOUR TRICKS TODAY!"
Whoever is shouting isn't visible.
Renik d20+2=12 Friday January 31st, 2003 6:04:20 PM
"Naughty, Bill, naughty!" winks the rogue to his diminutive companion.
"No tricks, good sir, and no Necromancer either!" calls out Renik to the voice. "I'm afraid the Necromancer got himself into more trouble than he knew how to deal with, and rather lost his head."
He pauses, and decides to take a chance.
"We are a band of adventurers, come to rid these Catacombs of the undead abominations that infested them. To the best of our knowledge we have completed our goal. Might I ask who you are sir, that you might cow one such as that blackhearted mage? My name is Renik Dacour; might I ask yours?"
(Diplomacy 12)
Bill Troublefinder Friday January 31st, 2003 6:07:07 PM
"Um, sorry there, sir. But I'm not the necromancer. He is somewhat indisposed since the big firey demon bit his head off, and we were just going to go burn his body, so that he does not trouble anyone anymore, or at least that's what we hope." Bill clears his throat a bit and says, "My name is Bill. Do you want me and my friends to just go away? It sounds like you may be terribly busy."
Hobbes Friday January 31st, 2003 8:12:39 PM
Hobbes is ready to go when he hears the clang of the firestick behind him. He rears around and his eyes go wide.
"Bill, don't--" he starts, but much too late. Then as Bill continues to talk to the booming voice, Hobbes' face turns from fear to anger.
"Ignorant Fool of a halfling!" he shouts and grabs hold of Elmo.
"Elmo, this way! Fast!" he shouts at the farmer and takes off down the hallway back toward the exit. He keeps alert for anything else that might be in front of him as he runs doubletime back to the shack with Elmo in tow.
If things seem fine up to the exit he takes Elmo back to town to the inn where there are lots of people about and will insist upon this and not Elmo's lonely farmhouse.
Feng Friday January 31st, 2003 9:45:58 PM
"Just because this presence doesn't like the necromancer doesn't mean it is alive. Most likely it is undead and may be more than agitated by our mission to rid these catacombs of undead."
Feng speaks the command word and his double axe bursts into flames providing another source of illumination. Feng walks forward willing to brave the unknown for answers. His axe is in his hands but not in any attack position.
Jarek Sunday February 2nd, 2003 8:06:56 AM
The young mage looks quite confused, as the group seems to agree on one course of action, only to find themselves suddenly taking another. When Hobbes suddenly runs off with his uncle, he sees little choice but to follow.
"Let's get out of here! Whatever is in there, it can wait!"
That being said, he runs off after Hobbes and Elmo.
Arien Sunday February 2nd, 2003 6:19:23 PM
"Ugh, this reminds of me of some situations we got in when that bard lady was hanging around..." Arien mutters to himself. Arien braces himself before following Feng, ready to unleash hot fury the moment something attacks.
Draax Sunday February 2nd, 2003 11:19:35 PM
Draax keeps the sunrod and turns to leave, then quickly spins back around when he hears the clanging sound. He stares with his mouth open for the next couple of seconds as the group reacts to the situation. He is dumbfounded as he watches Hobbes and Jared hurry Elmo towards the exit. He realizes that he is more concerned with facing what might be undead without the priest than being concerned about anything thing else.
Remembering that there is still an assassin unaccounted for and undead still running around the place. Draax is torn between seeing Elmo to safety and staying to support the others. Deciding to stay, he secures the sunrod in his belt before readying his sword. A not too happy Draax stands ready while he waits to see what happens.
Rond Monday February 3rd, 2003 3:40:41 AM
Rond is not sure to who to roll his eyes more. So he stops trying to think and readies his weapon as he follows Feng into the chamber.
Hororot - DMJK Monday February 3rd, 2003 11:35:21 AM
Hobbes and Jared take flight down the hall with Elmo. How far will they make it without running into the assassin on their own? Who knows? At any rate they ran away at a time when the group might be in need of a priest and a wizard's help.
As the footsteps of the brave heroes echo down the hall, the voice answers Renik and Bill, "The necromancer is gone you say. I thought the place felt... different. If you did indeed rid the place of the necromancer, then you may enter. It's been a long time since I had any pleasant conversation. I am Hororot, and this is my tomb." A ghost of a kindly looking old man coalesces in the center of the room.
The ghost fixes Feng with a look and smiles.
"Your axe wielding friend is right, of course. I am no longer amongst the living. He's right too that the undead are an abomination. You have my permission and encouragement to clean them and their stink out of my resting place!"
"I'd appreciate the peaceful rest of the dead myself, but that axe won't prove enough for me. You're welcome to try if you like, but my spirit is attached to this place. You could destroy this form, but my spirit would return here by the next day. If you destroyed the necromancer, you might be able to put me to rest, but it would be a difficult task." There is a hint of a question in the ghost's voice, like he wants to ask for help but is too proud or perhaps is too afraid of rejection to ask.
He pauses a moment and continues, "Anyway, come in and talk with me for a moment. Tell me what is going on in the world these days. It's dreadfully unpleasant down here."
Bill Troublefinder Monday February 3rd, 2003 2:17:27 PM
"Come back!" Bill hollers to the fleeing trio. "It's okay!"
Then he turns his attention to the room's host. "Oh, hi Mr. Hororot. Like I said, I'm Bill, Bill Troublefinder, and these are my friends." As he floats into the room at the friendly spirit's invitation, he takes a little bit better look around, paying particular attention to the two sarcophagi, and any writing which may be upon them, looking to get names, dates, or what information he might. He also tries to gauge the period in which Hororot might have lived, if his attire might give any clues.
"Well, it's a relief you feel that way, sir. You must have been a great man in life to have affrighted so that nasty Elzan even as a spirit.
"As far as news goes, well, lots of things have been happening lately. There was a whole big shake up among the gods lately, with the so-called Dark Lord, Marteaus," and Bill spits twice over his shoulder after mentioning that name, "having become a wicked godling. I don't care much for him, nor respect the following of his kind. But now that the gods wars have settled down for the time being - and I thank the good gods, and the God who is over all, whatever his name might be - well, we've found that cities and, as far as we know, islands and continents - if you'll allow a bit of speculation - have been moved around and smooshed about. Kind of like a re-creation, if you would, or at least a rearrangement. Nobody can figure out where Floating City has moved to, besides being on a huge lake in the middle of a jungle, somewhere. And some cities just vanished entirely! Or, in one case, at least the top layer or two went away, or so the rumor goes.
"But it seems like wars have died down lately. And crops have been fine. Me 'n my friends have been away from Windhorn Hamlet for a time, so I'm gonna go visit my family here, soon as we take care of the wizard's body, and assumin' no big interruptions get in the way.
"Oh! Have you ever traveled between here 'n Plateau City? It's a marvelous journey. My favorite part are the mile-high cliffs, with the elevators, y'know? It is so much fun to just leap off the edge, and feel the wind whippin' your clothes, and squinching up your eyes, then, at the last moment, slowin' down like a feather. But you have to pay a fine if you do that." For some reason, Bill feels his cheeks getting warm as he recalls that last detail.
"Anyway, it's almost my thirtieth birthday, so I'm plannin' a party for my friends, and old neighbors, and family.
"But, Mr. Hororot, you said you might be put to rest, if Elzan is destroyed. Oh, there are three nasty spectres around here somewhere, and I haven't felt very well at all since they touched me with their cold fingers." Bill shivers a bit. "We should probably see if we can get rid of them.
"If you don't mind my askin', 'cause it sounds like you'd like to just rest easy, without necromancers and such botherin' you, well, just what do you suppose it would take to, like you say, enjoy the peaceful rest of the dead? How did you end up here, anyways? There's a cleric of Gargul with us." Bill turns around to look for Hobbes. "Well, just a moment ago he was with us. Maybe he could help."
Then, having hogged so much talking time, he asks his friends, "Say, why don't you all let him know what else is going on in the Wold? I missed lots."
Renik Monday February 3rd, 2003 3:33:00 PM
"An honour sir," bows the rogue, "and indeed a pleasure to find one so fine in a place so foul. I'm sorry for your resting place. There's a ghost I know whose final resting place was the Inn where she died. Luck of the draw, I suppose. Beautiful thing she is, eyes you could drown in and a figure that goes in and out in all the right places..." Renik's eyes begin to glaze over, and he has to shake himself back into the here and now.
"Sorry, yes, a pleasure. Hardly seems fair, being stuck in a place like... I'm sorry, would you excuse me just one moment?"
And he pops back to the entrance of the chamber, where he yells (in wildly melodramatic style) after the fast vanishing footsteps of his fleeing companions;
"OH NO! It ate the hobbit! Well, at least half of him... no, wait, that's all of him gone. Eeew! It spat out his bones! Look out for those tentacles Feng! Ouch! Too late! Guys! Duck quick before... ooh, that's got to smart! Can you sew heads back on? Ah! No, it's coming for me! Back, foul fiend! Spare me from your gibbering maw! Hobbes! Hobbes! Save me, Hobbes! Aaaaggghhh!!!"
He wanders back into the chamber, chuckling to himself. "Please accept my apologies, Hororot, I'm afraid that was too good an opportunity to pass up. There's something about that priest that brings out the devil in me."
He winks, then continues; "But you sound as if you are in need. And any foe of that dark mage is a friend of mine. In truth it was the mage's own foolishness that caused his death, not us, but still... you say giving you rest would be a difficult task, but I for one would be willing to do what I could to help. Surely it can't be that hard to give a ghost peace?"
He tries hard to think of anything Bill missed, but as usual he fails.
Draax Monday February 3rd, 2003 8:02:54 PM
Draax relaxes a little as he listens to the ghost's words and its interaction with Bill. He take a look into the room and gives Hororot tentative wave.
Watching Renik's antics Draax tries not to laugh. To the rogue he says, "Now that was cruel, think of what something like that could do to poor Elmo."
His curiosity getting the better of him, Draax turns back to the ghost. "I would love to hear how you came to be in this place, if it is not too personal."
Rond Tuesday February 4th, 2003 2:15:06 AM
Not wanting to ruin the moment Rond has to stifle the beginnings of chuckle. When Renik steps into the hallway Rond cannot help himself and he bellows uproariously. After a few moments he settles down and doesn't interrupt anyone. The stress of the situation and then the decisions of the two, Rond found himself temporarily overwhelmed with the spectacle he has just witnessed.
Feng Tuesday February 4th, 2003 3:09:55 AM
Hearing of Hororot's plight, Feng tries to think of something to help the ghost. He could not imagine being trapped as a ghost. Day after day of torment. Seeing the world but unable to interact with it. It must be a hard existence.
"Hororot, if I may ask, how did you become trapped here? Perhaps there is something we could do?"
The Crown and Blade - DMJK Tuesday February 4th, 2003 9:32:37 AM
Bill sees that there is one sarcophagus in the room, which makes it the second sarcophagus he's seen today. This one is much older than the one the mummy was in. Its construction is simpler, but it is heavier and carries an aura of majesty about it that was lacking in the other. It appears that the lid was removed decades ago, and it still lies broken on the floor. Something about the way the pieces are arranged makes Bill think someone opened it from the outside.
The ghost listens to Bill's tale with interest, "Floating Cities? Elevators? You live in a grand time indeed, young hobbit. You also have my best birthday wishes.
As for me, I think that I was a great man. Frankly, I'm surprised that your histories do not remember me, but records and legends are lost after cataclysms like this god war. Once I was Hororot King. This town above us, this Windhorn Hamlet was my land. My clan controlled the coast, and we kept the marauding dragons from moving down onto the peninsula. I've heard from the last set of visitors that there is now something called the Sentinel that keeps the dragons away. That would have been a fine thing to have had in my day."
If this ghost lived before the Dragon Sentinel was built, then he lived a long, long time ago.
"Well met to the rest of you."
"It pleases me that you have an interest in my plight. This was my tomb, and I was laid to rest here peacefully what must now be centuries ago. Decades after my death, my tomb was robbed. My crown and my blade were stolen from my dead body's hands. The mummified corpse is still in the box if you want to see it. Personally, I can't stand looking at it, but anyway... I have no idea why, but the theft of the symbols of my rule brought my spirit back to this place. And here I am condemned to sit until my treasure is returned to my tomb. It has taken me a great many years, but I have discovered exactly where the items are. I am powerless to retrieve them myself though, and I don't have anything to offer for their return. But it would mean the world to me, if you could retrieve them."
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday February 4th, 2003 12:21:58 PM
Bill laughs at Renik's worrisome little play, but hopes that, if they choose not to return to where the rest of the party is, the three get to the safety they so desperately seek.
He is pleased that King Hororot, er, Hororot King, was interested in what they told him. And awestruck that he was an ancient king of this land. He is personally anxious to see if the party can help the noble king. He takes out his journal, and writes down what Hororot has to say as they talk.
"Yeah, oh yeah, and did you know that some sea devils - sahuagin - stole the Sentinel? They were in cahoots with the dragons, who invaded and attacked the land, and some of us went and got it back, then time went backwards, and ... did you know any of the Teucri? I like that word, 'cahoots.' They, the Teucri I mean, made all kinds of powerful magic, including the Sentinel. I sure would have liked to have met some of them, I'll tell you. What did they look like? Oh, I mean, if you ever saw any of 'em."
Then, figuring it would be good, if they were to help him, to know more details, Bill asks, "Hororot King, your majesty, could you tell us what the sword and crown looked like? And you say you know where they are? Who's got 'em?" The halfling draws a sketch or two based on what the spirit tells them, should he give such details, then will show him his sketch to see if it appears accurate.
Renik d20+8=25 Tuesday February 4th, 2003 12:43:52 PM
The rogue peers into the tomb of the long dead king (Spot 25), looking for anything of interest.
He listens carefuly to the King's tale, and nods as he draws to a conclusion. "It would be a great honour to retrieve your lost artefacts." he pronounces solemnly. "It is incumbent upon us to end a suffering which has already gone on far, far too long. And of course" here the rogue cannot keep a sly grin from tugging at his lips, "If you happened to have any ancient treasures you no longer needed, long hidden and doing no-one else any good, well it would be a shame to miss this opportunity to recover them. Historical interest and all that, you know..."
He wrestles manfully with his greed, and against all the odds, overcomes it. "But seriously, your crown and sword are the important issues here. Where are they located that we may return them to you?"
Whilst awaiting a response he peers down the corridor, hoping he has not inadvertently scared Hobbes and Jandar off.
Draax Tuesday February 4th, 2003 6:43:28 PM
Draax sits on the floor and begins polishing his sword with a rag while he listens to the ghost. Since the offer has already been made to help, Draax does not repeat it. Still suffering a little from the hit to his ego that he took because of his ineffectiveness while battling the demon, Draax waits to hear what they will have to do before making any commitment.
Location Revealed (DMJK) Wednesday February 5th, 2003 10:30:04 AM
Hororot patiently nods to Bill as the halfling prattles on. Clearly he's now more interested in his artifacts.
He's points to one of the broken pieces of the lid, "Lift that stone there. Beneath, you will find a map. Also if you examine the the pieces of the lid of the sarcophagus, you will find my burial engraving. It shows me wearing the crown on my head while holding the sword over me chest. That should give you an idea of the form. As for substance, the crown was a simple circlet of gold and platinum braided together. The sword was not magical, but it was a fine piece of craftsmanship. It is more simple than the blades you all carry, little more than a long mithral blade attached to directly to an ivory handle. There is no crossguard for we didn't use them in my day. You can't see it in the engraving on the lid, but there is a griffon carved into the ivory. I imagine the items will be quite unique due to their age."
Now for the location, "If you have the map now, you see that it shows a route across Dragon Bay into the Scab. One peak is marked with an X. Since losing the items have disappeared, I have been able to send two groups to look for it. The first group never returned, but the second returned with news that they had located the items. And they brought this map to me, and the tale of what they believed had happened. The thief crossed north across Dragon Bay into the Scab. There he was mauled by a young white dragon that added the items to its treasure horde. They found the remains of the first group that went looking, and then they discovered the dragon's lair. They were afraid to face the dragon, but they returned with the information. I had them scribe the map and place it under the stone for safekeeping. If the task doesn't sound too dangerous yet, then you should sail north across Dragon Bay and when you hit the coast of the Scab, head east. Then look for three tall snowy peaks. They will be easy to recognize because the peak on the right is smoking. At least it was when the other group went there. The dragon lives in the middle peak. The entrance is 3/4 of the way up the mountain."
Anyone looking finds the map under the lid exactly as he said. The lid carving gives an excellent idea of what the crown looked like. The sword is a bit harder to make out because those pieces are broken, but it gives a general idea of what you are looking for.
Renik Wednesday February 5th, 2003 11:18:00 AM
"Um, excuse me? Did you say white dragon? As in vast winged terror, raining icy death from the skies?"
The rogue ponders this for a short while, briefly wondering if he should take off after Hobbes and Jandar. But slowly he warms to the idea. Certainly the risks will be great, but if what he has heard about dragons is true, so too could be the rewards...
"Never let it be said that the Windhorn Hamleteers shirk danger! If a dragon has your sword and crown, then I say we seek him out. But this is an enterprise that will require some preparation I suspect."
He turns to his companions. "Have any of you faced such a beast before? Any thoughts on how we should go about overcoming such a foe?"
To Bill he says, "Bill, is William capable of contacting our missing companions and calling them back?"
Rond Wednesday February 5th, 2003 11:42:20 AM
Listening to the tale Rond ponders as to what the Hamleteers will be doing next. Rond chuckles a little bit when he realizes that there's something out there that makes Renik nervous.
Knowing Bill can talk for the two of them, and that Bill likes to do the writing, Rond just waits to see how all the conversation will go.
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday February 5th, 2003 11:44:06 AM
"No, Renik," Bill answers, "he's with you - and, since the spectres touched me, I sense he is more limited in what he can do."
Bill carefully copies the information on the lid, as well as the map and directions, also writing down what Hororot has to say. He takes out a few pieces of paper, and performs a rubbing of the crown and what pieces of the sword he can, along with the image of Hororot.
William Wednesday February 5th, 2003 11:51:37 AM
The tiny crystal kicks Renik in the ear to remind him he is still perched on his shoulder, but says nothing to the rogue.
To Bill he says, "Somewhat-less-mighty-than-usual Bill, surely our first priority is to restore you to your former glory! For how are we to best such a beast when diminished in this manner?! Can none of your companions perform such a deed?"
Feng Wednesday February 5th, 2003 1:25:02 PM
Feng thing about what the old king has said. He knows he will go and try to recover the items, but it is still a lot to think about.
"King Hororot I don't know if we will be able to stop a dragon but we can investigate. I have never seen such a creature but the stories I have heard do not make them sound like creatures I wish to meet."
Feng starts moving the stones. First to get the map and then to see the picture of the crown and sword. Fighting a dragon does have him worried, but Feng can't back down. There is no gauruntee that the dragon is still alive.
Draax Wednesday February 5th, 2003 5:11:02 PM
When Hororot says the word 'dragon' Draax sighs, but is not even a little surprised. It seems like helping someone is Windom Hamlet always has something to do with a dragon. He has no delusions about the group's ability to defeat a white dragon, but he also realizes that the group has risked their lives for far less than helping an ancient king return to his rest.
From his sitting place on the floor he looks up at the ghost, "Your majesty, or Hororot King, excuse me, but I do not know what is the proper way to address you. Anyway, it is obvious by the looks on the faces of my comrades that we are going to try to help you. My question to you is, after we take on the dangerous task and if we are successful -- what is to prevent some other grave robber from coming here and doing the same thing to you again?"
Draax absently wipes his sword as he waits for the king's answer.
Bill answers William Thursday February 6th, 2003 2:47:57 AM 'Well, my crystal friend, you are right, in that I think my, as you put it, "former glory" is in need of restoration. Patience,' Bill counsels his psicrystal. 'The King has been waiting for some time, and I don't doubt but that he would not mind if it takes us a little time to prepare for such an exploit. Just imagine, William - a hunt for a dragon! How exciting that may be! I wonder if Hobbes and Elmo's nephew will want to come, too? When I heard someone mention the idea of some of us staying behind here to guard the entrance to the fearsome "horror rot," I thought it would be well to get some sort of look at the creature. And, what sounded so fearsome, turns out to be the very nice old spirit of an ancient king! Glad we found out, before everyone had to walk with trembling knees before returning to this place.'
The halfling hums quietly to himself as he mentally chats with William, and works his sketches. And he adds, 'You know, William, that Feng is a very brave friend. Is it not good to have such courageous friends?'
Jared Thursday February 6th, 2003 6:59:38 AM
OOC: At a bit of a loss, waiting for Hobbes to post and see what he's doing.
Jared hears the sounds behind him as he catches up with Elmo, and quickens his pace until they are safely out of the catacombs. He looks back down into the darkness, then to his uncle.
"Can you make your way back from here, uncle? I don't...I want you to be safe, but I feel terrible leaving them back there like that. I feel..obligated to go back, even if it's already too late."
He waits for his uncle's response, but it's clear he has already made up his mind to go back.
The runners (DMJK) Thursday February 6th, 2003 10:09:05 AM
Hobbes and Jared get Elmo to the exit safely. There is no sign of assassin or anymore undead. You emerge in the cemetery. It's pitch black, and it must be near midnight. Time for a decision. Head back to check on your friends and leave Elmo in the safey of the open air, take Elmo back to his farm, or take the poor man into town.
Tales of the Dragon (dmjk) Thursday February 6th, 2003 10:54:14 AM
Hororot sees the group's concern. "Make no mistake, dragons are dangerous. Most of the nasty things you've heard are probably true. In fact it was a dragon that killed me. Not a white though, a great big blue. Spat lightning and left me smoking in my boots. Ha. I deserved it though. I killed 87 dragons while I was alive. Maybe it's not anymore, but that was a pretty big number back then. I can give you some tips. First and foremost, you have the advantage of surprise. It has no idea you even exist. This gives you the opportunity to prepare against its icy breath and the chance to prepare an offense. Whites are especially vulnerable to fire. Still I understand if the task is too great."
Renik Thursday February 6th, 2003 11:10:06 AM
"No, no, you're right. Protection from Cold potions, a wand of fireballs or similar, plus potions and spells to increase our speed, defensive and attacking capabilities; with the correct planning we should be able to do this... Did the previous team you sent give any further details of the beast's lair? Invisibility might come in handy in order to approach the creature; then we can maximise our advantage of surprise. Hororot, do you have any treasures we could sell to finance such a venture? Or was it all looted?"
"Oh, one other thing; you say this is a young dragon the earlier adventurers faced. But how long ago did they face it?"
He scratches his chin, then says "Wait a moment, I'm going to see if I can find the others."
And quick as a flash he's off after Hobbes, Jared and Elmo. If he finds them at the entrance to the tombs he quickly informs them of Hororot and his proposal, then suggests they all head back to the (safe) chamber to finalise their plans with the ghost. Once that's done they can escort Elmo home, and retire for the night.
Bill Troublefinder Thursday February 6th, 2003 1:57:25 PM
Bill (who is now visible, if it is as late as midnight) looks up when Hororot mentions the dragons he killed in his life. "Eighty seven!? Hoo! I think only A'tath, and maybe Valdor, would have come close to that in our age. A'tath is part dragon, himself, and quite the fanatic about killing anybody else who is a dragon. He came through Plateau City last year, claiming everybody and his sister was a dragon in disguise. He beheaded two of 'em right before our eyes! Valdor is a much more reasonable man. Well, half-elf. He's even made friends with a bunch of the better dragons."
He listens as the king and Renik discuss strategies, giving some thought to that himself. He finishes up the sketches, and puts the drawings away, though keeping out his journal to jot additional notes as they talk.
Rond Thursday February 6th, 2003 11:30:02 PM
"There's nothing saying that we necessarily have to kill the white," Rond says, "since we're just trying to recover the king's stuff here."
Bill Troublefinder Friday February 7th, 2003 12:17:33 AM
Bill looks up at Rond. "Well, maybe so, Rond. But imagine this conversation. 'Excuse us, Mr. Dragon, sir. We were just wondering if we could go ahead and take this crown and sword? I mean, you'll hardly miss them, I'm sure! We just want to return them to their rightful owner. Oh, you're not Mr. Dragon, but Miss Dragon? Yes, I can see that by your beautiful eyes. Here, have a bread surprise!'" He gives Rond a wink. "But, with stealth, one or a few of us might get in and out before the white comes looking for the missing inventory."
Then, having thought a bit about Renik's suggestions, he says, "Those are some good ideas. I was just going to suggest a few more things. But, Hororot King, sir, you've defeated more than seven dozen of the creatures. Do you have any more suggestions on how to survive such an encounter, and to prevail over such a beast? Do whites ever associate with other colors of dragons? Might there be more than one? How can we help ensure the white does not learn of our plans?"
Hobbes d20+8=23 Friday February 7th, 2003 4:29:11 AM
Hobbes leads Elmo out into the night air and takes a big fresh breath of it, then turns to Elmo.
"I'm sorry I had to rush you out so harshly, Elmo. It is our duty to see you are safe. I have full confidence in the rest of my companions in handling that situation. Now, how are you with horses?" he says as he scoops up Elmo and places him on top of Bradbury, his horse.
He pauses as Jared looks back down the hole.
"It should be a clear path back to town. I want you to ride my horse back to the inn and tell the innkeeper to stable my horse until I return. You'll be safe there with others. I don't want you going back to your house tonight, do you understand?" he says strongly to Elmo, staring him down a little.
[Intimidate Roll 23]
He makes sure Elmo has hold of the reins correctly, has his feet strapped in securely and provides him with an extra cloak from his saddle bags, then goes to the front of the horse.
"Keep him safe, old boy. Straight to the inn in town," he says rubbing the side of the horse's face.
"Steer straight toward town. He's a good horse and very easy to ride. Are you ready, Elmo?"
Awaiting a positive answer he prepares to get the horse going.
Feng Friday February 7th, 2003 9:50:54 AM
"Hororot I will try to retrieve your stolen sword and crown. Slaying Dragons is not easy. I haven't even seen one. Any information on tactics, weaknesses, or of items that may help us would be greatly appreciated."
Elmo's departure (dmjk) Friday February 7th, 2003 10:41:48 AM
Elmo's a pro at riding a horse. Someone might recall that he had his own in his barn. He thanks Hobbes and Jared and rides into town.
Renik finds Hobbes and Jared about the time Elmo is on the trail.
Hororot continues (DMJK) Friday February 7th, 2003 10:52:22 AM
Hororot looks down at Bill, "You certainly do talk a lot don't you? I'm surprised so many words can fit in such a small package. I can't offer much more advice. I rarely encountered whites. They always stay where it is cold, and it isn't that cold around here. I would caution you against trying to sneak in and steal some dragon treasure though. Once it found the missing items, it would be after you in a heartbeat. I imagine it would chase you down and bring the fight on its own terms. Instead, sneak as close to it as you dare and hit it as hard and as fast as you can. Do as much damage to it as you can before it's ready. That's the only way to kill a dragon. They may look like stupid lizards, but they're smarter than they are tough. You give them a chance, and they'll make short work of you."
"As for the possibility of more than one, you'd better pray that there isn't more than one. Dragons are relatively solitary, so you should be ok. If there is more than one, it would be a male and a female or perhaps a female with hatchlings. The last group mentioned only one dragon, but it was 50 years ago. If you encounter anything with the dragon it would probably be giants. I used to hear that frost giants keep whites as pets. Can't imagine how you'd keep a dragon as a pet, but those giants are tough brutes themselves."
"I'd load you up with all sorts of goodies, but I don't think you'll find anything in here. I can't really offer aid or assistance other than encouragement. One last thing that comes to mind, you have to show teamwork to fight a dragon. If you can't work together, you shouldn't try."
Renik Friday February 7th, 2003 11:29:02 AM
Renik brings Hobbes and Jared up to speed as he leads them back towards Hororot. Once there he listens to the tail end of the ghostly king's speech.
"Aye, teamwork. This will require careful planning, expenditure and coordination. You're right, we need to hit it hard and fast, not give it time to recover.
"But it grows late. I would suggest we head back to the Inn and rest, then get Bill seen to in the morning. Perhaps a visit to a Temple, if our own priest cannot restore him to his former vitality?
"Then, we can discuss what items we are going to need for this quest, and go over possible tactics."
The rogue bows to Hororot, and awaits his companions.
Bill Troublefinder d20+14=27 Friday February 7th, 2003 2:29:20 PM
Bill happily nods his head in affirmation of the King's comment.
He looks up at Hobbes and Jared when Renik escorts them in, and waves his hand.
When Hororot concludes, the hobbit says, "Excellent advice."
And, to Renik's suggestion, he nods his head in agreement. He takes a last look around the chamber, and cements in his mind the details of the burial chamber and its contents (autohypnosis 27).
"Thank you, Hororot King. We will see what we can do." Following Renik's lead, he bows politely to the ancient spirit, and heads on out the tomb, thence back to town.
Arien Friday February 7th, 2003 2:45:24 PM
Arien follows Bill's and Renik's lead and heads back to town with them. "You know," he says after a moment of thought, "I'm not a dragon expert or anything but I have read a bit about them during my readings involving magecraft. As I recall the Whites are considered the smallest and least intelligent of the dragon races. Of course it's still a dragon though, and tougher than anything we've fought yet, aside from a certain happening of course. Since they live in the cold so much it stands to reason that they'd be a bit weak to fire, in which case I'll be particularly effective. That is of course provided that the beast isn't too resistant to magic. I'll make sure and memorize all the fire spells I can. Hopefully Jared will have some in his spellbook as well. In fact, when we get back to town I think he and I should sit down and talk shop."
Rond Friday February 7th, 2003 7:26:33 PM
Responding to Bill's comments with a mischievious look to him, "I think you could probably do a good job of just talking to the dragon and keeping it busy. If you don't manage to put it to sleep, then we'd have Renik sneak in and grab the stuff. If he could keep from laughing. And if the Dragon were female, I'm sure Renik could woo her!"
Rond chuckles as he listens to the rest of what the king has to say.
As the group walks away and head to town Rond comments, " We might want to talk to couple of people about the times before the sentinal. There might be some records about some of the things they use to do or somesuch."
"This teamwork thing would be a key. I would hate to see everything fail because someone decided that they wanted to go off on their own."
Hobbes Saturday February 8th, 2003 3:43:43 AM
Hobbes listens to the Hororot story with interest, an almost morbid interest and thanks Gargul that no harm befell his comrades.
Walking along, his ears pluck up at Rond's last comments. "If you are referring to me, Rond, I was only seeing to the protection of an innocent who was in potentially grave danger. If that Hororot thing would have been this vile beast that charged out of the room and killed Elmo, it would have been... OUR fault." This last he says looking at Bill.
"As no one else was looking after him and myself being out of spells, I felt it my duty to protect him with my very life and get him to the safety of my horse. I had every confidence that the rest of you could take down any foe that might have appeared there."
He pauses. "...unless you don't think you could?"
Bill Troublefinder Saturday February 8th, 2003 7:45:37 AM
Bill smiles at the grim cleric. "Our leader, Rond, asked if we should place a guard. If we were going to do so, I thought it would be wise to get an idea of what we were guarding. So I shed some light on the subject. And now we don't have to wait for a week to find out what fearsome thing lay in wait for us in the chamber. You did fine to take Elmo to safety, Hobbes and Jared. No complaints from me on that matter. And we had Feng to protect us."
"Hey, friends, are we going to burn the wizard's body now, or wait until tomorrow?" he asks. [OOC: And who is lugging the carcase? The halfling would insist it not be left behind. If need be, he will expend a charge from his wand of levitation in order to make it easier to bring along, affixed by ropes.]
On the way back, he chats with Arien and the others about some spell-casting strategies.
Once back at the inn, Bill, who normally might stay up and snack and chat, goes to bed, and, after jotting only a couple more sentences into his journal, falls fast asleep, exhausted and drained.
Draax Sunday February 9th, 2003 5:04:19 PM
Draax smiles at the return of Hobbes and Jared, glad that Elmo got out safely. He stands and departs with the others, contemplating their upcoming battle with a dragon.
Jared Sunday February 9th, 2003 5:26:59 PM
Jared looks quite relieved as his uncle is taken care of by Hobbes. He turns to Hobbes and smiles warmly.
"Thank you so much for your help. I really appreciate that you went so far to help a total stranger. It means a great deal to me."
As the others arrive, he is quiet, listening intently to the tale. Ghosts, thieves..and dragons! Quite an adventure! His face breaks into a grin, and a sense of giddy anticipation washes over him.
"A white dragon? We shall have to take time to prepare. I wouldn't want to impose on the group, but I think I may have a great deal of advice and help to offer on such an expedition!"
He looks downright gleeful.
Hobbes Monday February 10th, 2003 3:32:43 AM
Hobbes looks down at the ground as Jared speaks, then continues walking forward.
"It is not I whom you should thank, Jared, but Gargul the Eye. He brought us to this location and he kept your uncle alive. It was not Elmo's time and thus Gargul led us to rescue him. Pay your thanks to Gargul."
He then stops again and peers back at the cemetery as it barely remains in view and wrinkles an eyebrow, "And he has also kept THAT one alive."
A short time passes (DMJK) Monday February 10th, 2003 11:55:33 AM
The group disposes of the necromancer's corpse and its bloody head in whatever way that Bill sees fit, and they return to town.
Elmo has already arrived at the inn and has told everyone of your exploits. He's embellished the tale a little bit and even included a final battle with the dreaded Horror Rot. The inn cheers your welcome when you enter. A priest of Wardd who happened to have been in for a pint restores Bill. Food and drink are on the house, and the bard there for the evening's performance sings of your exploits.
The Heroes of Windhorn Came from Plateau To rescue a farmer Named Elmo.
They followed his trail To the place of the dead And they listened To what poor Nigel said.
Then the assassin's bolt Ended the life of the dolt
They chased after The unknown foe And they followed him As he went down below.
Exploring the catacombs That they found They discovered poor Elmo Tied and bound.
They set him free But they did not yet flee
Instead they prepared to face The wizard of the dead That villain of evil They wanted his head.
They opened the door With the evil password And crossed over the circle And the wizard cried, "Merde!"
The demon bit off the wizard's head. And poor Elmo had no more to dread.
The bard apologizes after singing, "It still needs a bit of work. I only just now made it up you know."
The crowd seems to like it though. They especially seem to enjoy chanting the end, "The demon bit off the wizard's head. And poor Elmo had no more to dread."
Bill Troublefinder Monday February 10th, 2003 4:44:59 PM
Thankful for the priest's kind help, Bill gives him a few gifts, including a potion of spider climb; a scroll organizer; a blue enameled gold ring, engraved with 'Storm Dragons' on the inside. "I got this from a really hard contest that the Storm Dragons put on," he tells him. "It was one of the prizes." He tells the cleric about the time a rainbow trout twice helped save his life, as well as the lives of his friends. "I know that Wardd did that for us! Say, he was in Plateau City a few days ago. I like him. Thank you, so much."
Through William, Bill suggests to his friends that they not gainsay Elmo's recounting of the battle of the horror rot. 'We want to make sure that the king rests undisturbed, so don't need to tell others his story.'
Bill applauds the bard enthusiastically, and buys him a piece of pie. Shoot, he liked the performance so much, he gives the bard a ring similar to that which he gave the cleric, but this one is in black enamel. "Won it from the Storm Dragons," he explains. "It's gold inside. Thanks, mister, for your good song. What's your name? I'm Bill."
Rond Monday February 10th, 2003 5:01:43 PM
Responding to Hobbes, Rond says, "I'm sure that it would have been our fault had Elmo actually been killed. But could you count on the spectres leaving you alone as you exited? What if the Horrorrot had set up some kind of ambush or trap that you would have sprung while escorting Elmo out? Where would that have left the group then since WE are still responsible for YOUR actions? I think we had things probably well in hand for most situations... that is assuming that the healer hasn't left the party behind without direction. Do you think you would have felt any better if any of our group had died and all we need was one healing spell to keep him alive? Oh yea speaking of spells. I know you said you were out of spells, but when did you ever inform anyone that you had none left to give? If you were out of spells what made you think that you, one man, could safely get Elmo out especially if you somehow got injured after you were away from us? Then on top of everything else you call my halfling friend here a fool. He may not take much offense but I am of an idea that I might. Keep in mind too that you also said that there were a lot of I's in your statement about what was good for Elmo. I've run through some scenarios similar to this where people have decided on their own to do things without thinking about the others. In most cases they ended up going terribly wrong in one form or another. I'll admit that I tend to run things a little loose. In most cases people can make decisions on their own. But excuse me if I decide to get on your case about doing something by yourself."
As the other think about their plans for the future adventure and before the party goes topside to the celebrations Rond comments to Jared, "If you do not mind the life of an adventurer we have never refused anyone the right to help us out. Just be warned that it is not a life of ease and that there may be decisions that will be hard to make when the time comes. It will be nothing like what you might have imagined."
[OOC: These things would have been addressed if there was a lifting of the one post per DM post rule. Last time I checked that hadn't been lifted.]
Renik Monday February 10th, 2003 5:40:04 PM
The rogue, mind filled with plans and schemes for the battle ahead, cannot fully appreciate the adulation generated by the bard's amusing song. Indeed, he even fails to notice a couple of local lasses looking over at him and giggling! Truly he is deep in thought as he sits in the bar, nursing a glass of warmed red wine.
Rond's comments to Hobbes snap him out of his reverie. He tries to smooth things over.
"Ah well now friends, it's easy to make snap decisions in the heat of the moment that don't turn out for the best. On the whole I think we've all worked well as a team. Let's not let stern words spoil what was a very successful little foray. We'll need to be operating as a single unit if we are to meet our next challenge, so let's learn from our mistakes and move on."
Soon after he heads for bed, intending to get up early the following morning, to do as much reseach on the topics of White Dragons and their habitat as the village of Windhorn Hamlet will allow.
Arien Tuesday February 11th, 2003 2:24:33 AM
"Renik I'm sure that you remember a certain Bard who caused us much trouble when she tried to do her own thing, such as attacking another group without cause. While I'm not judging what Hobbes did, we can't afford anything like this to happen when we go after this dragon, indeed it could be disaster." Pausing for a moment Arien stands up and addresses the group, "Now then friends, if you will excuse me I think I shall bathe and retire for the rest of the night."
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday February 11th, 2003 2:43:55 AM
"Friends, Hobbes thought my actions impetuous," Bill speaks with his friends. "Now, I had a reason to do as I did, but understand his reaction, and appreciate his desire to protect the one for whom we came. I'm glad that Elmo - and all of us - made it out alive and well. Thank you, friends, for sticking up for me - but I'm more to blame for this misunderstanding than anyone. Now, none of us here is the agent of chaos that Sunblaze was among us." He looks around a little uncertainly, hoping no one thinks of him that way. "Hobbes - you are gifted of Gargul, and I trust that nothing need stand between us. I count you a friend, and I can take a rebuke from a friend. So, have a last piece of pie on me, then let's get some sleep. It's been a lo-o-o-ong day. And yes, Arien, you could use a bath," he concludes with a smile, ducking quickly under the table lest Arien retaliate.
Draax Tuesday February 11th, 2003 7:30:22 AM
Draax observes the comments made by everyone about the misunderstanding that happened right before meeting the ancient king. He keeps his opinions to himself and lets it play out.
At the inn, he smiles as he listens to the bard's song and takes the pats on the back warmly before calling it an evening and going to bed.
Feng Tuesday February 11th, 2003 8:26:27 AM
Feng relaxes and enjoys the celebration. Some facts might be wrong but that was all right. The wold was a harsh place and people need things to celebrate. Before Feng drinks too much he wishes everyone a good night and turns in.
Party (DMJK) Tuesday February 11th, 2003 12:10:41 PM
The party has words, but in the joyous atmosphere of the inn, it's hard to stay disgruntled for long. The ale flows. The beer flows. The wine flows. The bard sings. The ladies dance, and the band plays on. The party rages until the late hours.
Everyone drifts off to bed at their own pace. The next morning comes, and things are back to normal. Elmo has gone back home to tidy up and to check on his horses. Breakfast awaits. That saga is over. Now a new one awaits.
Renik brings a book about dragons with him to breakfast. It's full of pictures, and there is a chapter on whites. It points out that as far as dragons go, whites are the smallest and the weakest. They are not as intelligent as the others, sometimes almost ferral. They aren't particularly skilled with magic, at least by dragon standards. They are perfectly suited to a cold climate however, and most humans, elves, dwarves, and halflings are not. The book suggests that the climactic advantage gives them an edge over some other dragons. A green dragon is more powerful, certainly, but adventurers typically don't have to worry about freezing to death on their way to a green dragon's lair. Whites never slip on ice, and they are never bothered by cold. They can produce ice and freezing fog at will. Fortunately only the oldest are able to cast powerful spells. They also possess the typical qualities of all dragons: resistant to magic, nearly impenetrable scales, flight, claws that can rake stone, and jaws filled with rows of sharp teeth suitable for crushing blocks of ice.
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday February 11th, 2003 2:27:30 PM
Bill enjoys a light breakfast of eggs, sausage, rolls, toast, fruit, milk, tea, and perhaps a little bit of fish.
At Renik's find, Bill rejoices. He takes his turn looking at the book, commenting on the artwork. Not wanting to hog it, he waits until others have a chance to look at it too, but asks for time a little later to thoroughly study the whole tome.
"Y'know, if it was a young dragon when it robbed the rogue, it's probably an adult by now. That was, what, fifty years ago? If the reports are accurate, Renki," making a friendly diminuitive of Renik's name, "then I doubt he's old yet, for a dragon."
After a few more bites of food, he adds, "We're gonna need some warm clothes, for sure. Hey, a boat to get across the Bay would be good. Quaal's swan feather token could do it, maybe. Though if we have a bunch to haul back, I dunno. And how about..." Bill's words trail off as he looks to be thinking about things.
After a bit, he asks, "I wonder how a ghost tells time?"
Hobbes Tuesday February 11th, 2003 2:51:22 PM
Hobbes cuts the party short and goes to bed early to get new spells. Then he goes to sleep. In the morning, he comes down for breakfast and wanders over to Renik and his book.
"Very good, Sir Renik. Very good information. "
He watches as Renik turns the page from one White Dragon picture to the next. "Is that....a children's book?"
Renki Tuesday February 11th, 2003 5:22:46 PM
The rogue comes down to breakfast all cool smiles and flirtatious winks to the barmaids. He pores over the book with Bill and the others, discussing its findings.
"Yes, it probably is a fair bit older now, maybe even... hang on! Renki? RENKI!?! You make me sound like a poodle! Some rich woman's pampered little lapdog! Renki, by the Gods!" bridles the rogue at Bill's pet name.
He regathers his cool, barely, and then Hobbes makes his wry comment.
"No Hobbes, it is NOT a children's book." flounces Renik, thoroughly put out at being the recipient of teasing for a change. But he can't resist a quick glance at the cover, just to make sure.
He huffs, and spends some time brushing his long flowing locks using a handmirror, filing his nails and carefully plucking his eyebrows. He studiously ignores the conversation, or at least pretends to, as he dreams of finding some nice wealthy widow to take him away from all this.
Draax Tuesday February 11th, 2003 6:10:02 PM
Draax grabs a couple of biscuits and looks over Renik's shoulder at book while he eats one of the biscuits. "Wats wa wice wook, wek wuse wee." He finish chewing his biscuit and swallows before trying again, "excuse me, what I was trying to say is, that's a nice book you got there Renik. It reminds me of right after the renewal ceremony for the sentinel head and the painful roaring scream that came from the dragons just before they departed. I recognize some of types of dragons that were there from the pictures in this book. I do not remember seeing any white dragons in that bunch, but I will never forget that big black one. Even though he was miles away, I could have sworn I could feel its fear aura radiating off of it." Draax does an involuntary shake of his body as he dismisses the thoughts of the black dragon from his mind.
"Anyway, I wonder if they have any books on what other types of creatures we might come in contact within the region of the white wyrm."
Rond Wednesday February 12th, 2003 1:51:59 AM
Listening to the conversation of others at the table Rond smiles as the little teasing goes on. After Renik comments about Bill 'pet' name for him Rond comments,
"Hmmm. And who was it that came riding in a carriage in Plateau city that was looking for you?"
"I've not had much experience going up against any dragons. I'm wondering whether something that's near feral would just outright attack or whether it would still have some cunning to it"
Feng Wednesday February 12th, 2003 3:48:52 AM
Feng listens to the brief summary of a dragon's strength. Very formidable creatures without the strength of their environment. Feng remains quiet, spending his time deep in thought.
XP for last module (DMJK) Wednesday February 12th, 2003 10:07:14 AM
Everyone that played the whole module gets a base of 3500xp. Remember to share if someone else played your character for a while.
300xp for Jared for coming in with about 1 week left of a 12 week module. ------------ Roleplay bonus:
350 to Bill for jumping off the plateau, roleplaying every little thing, and getting beat on by spectres.
250 to Renik for being so sneaky
250 to Rond for providing tracking services
150 to Hobbes for feeding his horse outside the mausoleum
150 to Draax for worrying about Elmo's horses -------------- Hero points (remember these also have an xp value of 50 x char. level):
1 hero point for everyone.
1 extra for Feng for standing up to the Pit Fiend ----------- and 1 bit of encouragement for Arien to post more often because we like his posts
travel - DMJK Wednesday February 12th, 2003 10:12:51 AM
The swan boat seems like a bad idea. Crossing Dragon Bay would just about be the same as heading out into the open sea. It's well over 50 miles across and prone to storms.
Perhaps you could hire a ship down at the docks. Even a big fishing boat would be better suited for traversing the bay.
Kim Thursday February 13th, 2003 5:41:07 AM
Thanks for the experience & hero & bonus points and such, JK. Way to go, guys!
Travel - Kim Thursday February 13th, 2003 5:44:28 AM
Hmmm - A swan boat can carry 32 normal-sized folk, and moves at 60' per six seconds. That means in 24 hours, it can travel just over 163.6 miles. Why wouldn't it work? Is there something in the item description that would limit it to calm waters? At well over 50 miles, let's say it's 60 miles wide, that would take 8.8 hours. Just because it's a swan boat does not mean it's too delicate for the sea, does it? Well, at the end of 24 hours, it disappears, of course...
I'm not averse to hiring a boat. Just wondering about why the Quaal's Feather Token swan boat would not be deemed sea worthy.
-I hadn't read the description. The distance across is about 75 miles. So you'd have to have 2 to get there and back. Is it worth 900 gold? -jk
Renik Thursday February 13th, 2003 6:25:08 AM
The rogue lets others worry about shipping, concerning himself with supplies for the group.
"OK, for a journey like this I recommend we get cold weather gear, warm blankets, 4 tents, 4 sledges, and lots of tindersticks and provisions. And of course all the magic we need. If no-one objects I'll go and buy all the standard items, and my own magical preparations for the battle."
DMJK Thursday February 13th, 2003 9:55:27 AM
Despite that ill feeling in the pit of his stomach, Bill remains convinced that the swanboat will work.
Draax Thursday February 13th, 2003 11:11:58 AM
Draax does not know much about boats, but he likes the idea of the swan boat. He decides to go down to the docks to see what boats are available for hire and the cost.
"I want to see what boats are available at the docks. The swan boat will probably be needed for the return trip since we have not idea if we can hire a boat in Scab, but hiring a boat to take us there might be cheaper. Either way, I would like to see what our options are. Anyone here has any sailor experience or would just like to come along?"
Draax heads to the docks checking out what boats are for hire and the prices that they might charge.
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