The group blocked off by Arien's Wall of Force keeps trying to figure out how to bypass it. They bring their Anchor forward and carefully advance through the opening created by antimagic.
The Raiders on the right side of the wall sprint after the withdrawing party, but a second Wall of Force stops them dead in their tracks.
The Knights race for the nearest alley that offers cover from arrows. Looking behind their backs they see that the demons, blocked off in an area now criss-crossed with invisible magic barriers, do not pursue. The Scouts turn their attention instead in the direction of the newest portal. They seem to be getting ready to combat whatever is going to come through it.
The party turns the corner of a nearby building and the visual contact with the demons is broken.
It was a short, bloody fight against odds, with losses on both sides. Fortunately Vedik's body has been recovered, and Jova senses that his soul has not been lost either and hangs on nearby.
The group of demons is still only a few hundred feet away, so it would be wise to proceed with caution.
[Hero points - DM Marcin] Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 4:33:49 AM
[Folks, everyone (including Vedik) gets a hero point for disrupting the operations of the Legion scout team.]
[I'd like you to propose nominations for additional hero points for both the succubus encounter and the recent fight. Quoting from Jerry, a hero point requires two things: risk and success. Here are a few examples he gives: - "If a fighter stands alone in against 3 monsters his level, he earns a hero point, assuming that he lives." - "If a cleric stands over the body of a fallen party member risking his life and taking shots until he can heal the fallen person, he gets a hero point." - "If a mage takes risk of future attack and casts a useful spell that helps to turn the tide of the combat, he earns a hero point." - "If a rogue takes risk and sneaks ahead detecting traps for the party, he gets a hero point. If he successfully hides and then pulls off a backstab, he earns a hero point."]
[While the combat did not end in victory there were some successful maneouvers you did that saved lives, so there is potential here for extra hero points. Please either mail me your nominations or post them as a "private to DMs" message. It is perfectly OK to nominate yourself.]
Tratain d20+17=25 Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 3:56:28 PM
When contact with the Demons is broken Tratain stops and has Draax put Vedik down so that he can check on him,(Heal Check 25) He doesn't have much home as the attacks looked pretty bloody, but the Dwarf is old, maybe he just passed out.
While checking the old Dwarf Tratain says to his comrades "I have no idea what those things were, but I don't think the Orb caused more than the first couple succubus's. Dwight, we've got an invisibility wand, Would you mind scouting carefully and see whats going on where we just left? I'd like to know who was arriving as we were leaving, Hopefully More assasins like the ones who attacked us late last night During the Earthquake."
He continues "Jova, could you use the Wand on Dwight and His Broom, and Also we'll need you to keep track of him as best you can for us since you can cast see invisibility. Dwight, Try and carefully see whats going on back there, and after come back and tell us, we'll then need you to scout ahead of us for any dangers. I think we should head to the Mayors and see whats going on. Also Dwight keep an eye out for any more of those Invaders anywhere else you can see around the City, Maybe ask your Bird Friend to look as well? Since he'll be able to spot things much better than us I think."
"Hey Arien, you want to use that Dragon Statuette that Lord Arrack Gave us? Tell him about the Earthquake here if he hasn't heard already about the destruction and tell him about those things we fought, what you know of them and see what he has to say about them."
Tratain (2nd) Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 4:07:26 PM
Tratain says "Also Dwight, in your scoutings try and find a secluded place where we can stop for an hour to prepare new spells for the comming day. But if you see more bands of those invaders don't worry about us stopping to rest, But do keep an eye out for places for us to hide. If there are more, depending on how many more we may have to Leave the City. I would also like to use the Invisibility wand on Draax as well, we're still to close to those invaders. While Dwight is checking behind us right now Draax I'd like you to make sure theres no one to our front while Dwight is behind."
Tratain also uses the Wand of Restoration on Draax again.
Dwight d20+25=34 d20+27=40 d20+15=20 d20+13=25 d20+6=8 d20=10 Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 10:41:31 PM
Dwight listens closely to Tratains instructions and goal for his mission. See, listen, and report.
Dwight will cast comprehend language (used 1st lvl spell slot) on himself before accepting the invisibility.
"Anyone have a message spell left?"
He will then fly on his broom up and over the buildings back towards the portal. His intention is to stay high, perhaps with the sun behind him. (Meaning only those looking into the sun, might see him.)
Depending on the scenario, he may go lower to hear what might be discussed. Afterwards he'll look around the rest of the ciy to answer Tratains other questions.
Hide: (invisible) + 34 (w/sun)
Move Silently (Fly silently):40
spot: 20
listen:25
sense motive(of whatever came out of portal) : 8
gather information: 10
OOC: May or may not be blinking still, if important, DM can roll as needed d100.
DM Sanity Notes: Fatigued (str -2) Cat's Grace & Fatigue (net: dex +2) Flying on Broom (40') Blinking (physical attacks miss 50% of the time, 20% blinked out, lasts 1 round/level)
Draax AC 35, HP 163/166 d20+10=19 d20+3=16 Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 10:52:24 PM
Draax puts the body of Vedik down for Tratain to inspect. Once again he feels energy being restored to him. He waits to be turn invisible before moving out ahead of the group. If he sees anything he will come back to the group and relay his findings.
Spot check 19 Listen check 16
Necklace of Adaptation Endure elements Resistance Slipper of Spider climb
Jova 34 AC 96 Thursday April 24th, 2008 3:16:53 AM
Jova pulls forth the wand. Hre waaits for Dwight to get ready. Just before using the wand, Jova explains, "You will have roughly 3 minutes where you should be invisible. I will tap Whisk as well, he can travel where you dont. I will also tap Z and get him to watch your back. If you are seen, Z will screech loudly, you know the sound of a hunting bird of Prey."
Jova then uses the wand 3 times on Dwight and the 2 birds.
Turning to Draax he repeats the instructiopns. Then he uses the wand on Draax. "I can do that again if you need it, just come back in a few minutes." Spells 0--6-DC16--Resist +1 Save Throw, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Ghost Sound, Pres 1--7/8-DC17--Shield, Mage Armor, True Strike +20 ATT, Mount, Ray of Enfeeble SRyes 2--6/7-DC18--Glitterdust - Will save, Scorching Ray, Melfs Acid Arrow, Darkvision, See Invis 10/level 3--5/7-DC19--Fireball, Phantom Steed, Vampiric Touch Melee Touch SRyes, Fly 4--7-DC20--Stoneskin, Grtr Invis, Polymorph , Enervation 5--6/7-DC21--Cone of Cold, Blight, Telekinesis-Will Save-SRyes, Teleport 6--1/6-DC22--Freezing Sphere, Greater Heroism, Greater Dispel 7--4-DC23--Greater Teleport, Waves Exhaustion
They are gone - DM Marcin Thursday April 24th, 2008 5:14:39 AM
Tratain checks on Vedik, hoping that by some stroke of luck he might have survived, but unfortunately the dwarf is dead. The perspective of another cheerful conversation with Gargul starts to hang in the air.
Draax is healed once again. A few minutes later everyone who has been poisoned starts to experience secondary effects of the venom, which include nausea, heavy swelling and unbearable itching.
Dwight and Draax are sent invisible to scout, Draax ahead, Dwight in the direction of the group of demons [Dwight is no longer blinking - each use of the ring counts as if a Blink spell has been cast on you with normal duration. This means that if you want to keep blinking you need to reactivate it every 7 rounds].
Draax does not find any hostiles in the area in front of the party.
Dwight circles high over the ruined city (but hiding in the sun is not possible - it is still early dawn and the sun has not yet cleared the line of the walls) and gets to witness the finale of the demon incursion into the city.
As he nears the battlefield he notices that the newest portal is already gone. The men who came through - a group of eight roguish-looking types dressed in dark clothing and armed with crossbows and short blades - have been incapaciated by the Scouts and are lying on the ground paralyzed. The Raiders and Anchors are already gone. There is a glowing red circle traced on the cobblestones. The Scouts are busy moving various things into it: their prisoners, several paralyzed animals, including a horse and a few cats, samples of food and plants (such as they could have found in the city), small items of metalwork and pottery, and several books. Once this bizzare pile is assembled the circle flashes with blinding, red light, and everything inside it is gone, leaving behind a circular trace burned deep into the cobblestones.
In complete silence the Legion Scouts fade out one by one until all that is left of them is unpleasant odor of sulphur and brimstone.
Flying around Dwight confirms that no other groups of invaders can be seen. It must have been a separate incident.
About ten minutes later frightened faces start to appear in the windows of the mansion and the makeshift hospital returns to life as wounded are brought back up from the cellars where they have been hidden.
It is enough to fly two or three streets away to see homeless people scurrying about apparently ignorant of what has transpired nearby, calmly preparing a morning meal.
Draax comes back soon after Dwight. It seems that the demon danger has passed. The party might finally have time to take care of their own business.
[Arien gets a hero point for efficient use of wall spells. Decide what you would like to do until evening - you have about 10 hours.]
Tratain d20+1=18 d20+12=29 d20+11=14 Thursday April 24th, 2008 5:19:01 PM
Tratain enters the house to speak to the people within about the Legion invaders, he asks if any saw where they came from, what they were doing and anything else they might remember about them. (Gather Information 18)
After speaking with the People inside the Mansion he entrusts the Orb to Arien, and Tells the others "I'm going to use the Scroll queen Maab gave us to try and detect if there are any portals around the House, Maybe left open by the Orb or something else. Dwight if you would accompany me just to keep an eye out for me and on me, I'd like the rest to stick with the Orb. When I get back I'll use the Resurection scroll we have so that we can go and ask for Vedik's soul back from Gargul."
Tratain will then take out the Scroll give to him by Queen Maab, that has Find Portal and Open Portal on it and never fade, and begin casting Find Portal, first in the house but not too near the Orb, and then outside the house working his way out from the house for a little ways.
While out using the scroll Tratain also looks to see if he can Find any Strawberries and other Fruits, if anyone in the group asks about it he will tell them "They're for Gimp, he seemed to indicate he liked them when we were there last, I thought it would be nice to bring him some."
After Searching for Portal around the house and trying to locate some Fruit for Gimp, Tratain will gather the group together and cast the True Resurection Scroll he is carrying.
Spot 29 Listen 14
Monthor Thursday April 24th, 2008 8:45:04 PM
Monthor sticks by Tratain and waits for instructions.
Dwight d20+15=24 d20+15=33 d20+7=23 Thursday April 24th, 2008 10:34:51 PM
OOC: Invisible scouting questions Before the crabs and such portaled out;
1) did Dwight recognize anything about the 8 dead rogues (group affilaite, militia etc.) spot: 24
2) Is the dead scout or any smashed armor bits remaining in the courtyard area? spot: 33
3) Does Dwight recognize the read circle in which they teleported out? Spellcraft: 23
Once Dwight returns he relays everything he saw. "Odd, that such a strong force would take such trivial things. Surely they could have take much more in terms of value if they had wanted. It is likely there were either gathering information or got something we don't know about."
Dwight nods in agreement with Tratain and follows. His bow is kept ready in case any surprises occur, but hopes this is as simple a task as the last mission of scouting. Whisk circle overhead, high in the sky watching for any sign of uncommon beasts.
------------------------
Once the resurrection has occurred, Dwight suggest the group gets some much needed rest for alleviation of fatigue and spell re-coup. Perhaps, given the recent activity in shifts, and outside under a big tree.
Draax Thursday April 24th, 2008 11:25:19 PM
Draax checks on the damage to the house, the tree, and then sees how the house sitting and her family is doing. Once he is through with checking on things, he will join the group.
Jova 34 AC 96 Friday April 25th, 2008 3:17:35 AM
Jova remains near Arien and the Orb. Tratain made a good point about the stawberries. He wondered what Gargul would say, having met with him not so long ago.
"As far as the items gathered, might be like our Taur friends and their totem bags. Maybe the Demons just needed items to link to this plane. I find it odd they left with so little. As though this were purely an information gathering raid.
"When we get a chance, we need to communicate with your pet tree. I am sure it knows more about what is happening than any on e knows."
Asking around - DM Marcin Friday April 25th, 2008 6:01:38 PM
People who have sought shelter inside the mansion are questioned for information. Quite a few witnessed the arrival of demons and are more than willing to describe it, if for nothing else then just to relieve the tension somewhat.
They came after the party has left in pursuit of the succubi. There was a strange visual sensation as if the space itself was bent and folded onto itself, and then they appeared in pairs or threes, materializing silently alongside their beasts. People run or hid. Initially the demons didn't give chase and seemed wary, as if probing an unknown situation. By the time the party made it back they have become more bold, however, and most have ventured inside the nearby buildings. Judging by the mess they made inside the mansion they have been picking up things seemingly at random, but items of fine craftsmanship have visibly drawn more of their attention.
The scan with Find Portal does not reveal any active portals anywhere around the mansion. The lingering auras, however, are most interesting. There are two sites where there are leftover auras of moderate strength: near the tower, where the initial group of attackers appeared, and at the center of the battlefield, where the eight men teleported in. Aside from them there is one more: high above the ground, over the roof of the mansion, lingers a bright afterglow of a powerful magical effect. A portal has been opened there - a huge one. Was it put across a river one could easily sail a ship through it. None in the party knows of any conventional magic that could create this kind of gate. It is not certain how long it remained open, but judging by the residual noise it must have been minutes, maybe even a quarter of an hour. Aside from these three there are no other finds.
Fruit are collected in preparation for a visit to Gargul. It is not really a season for fresh fruit, but the party manages to salvage a jar of pears in sweet syrup and a sack of healthy walnuts.
The eight men taken prisoner by demons didn't wear any visible markings or anything else that would allow Dwight to associate them with any faction or cause.
The broken armor of the dead Scout has been left behind. The body is gone, hovever; it evaporated seconds after he's been slain.
The red circle was some kind of trigger for a teleportation effect. It must have been somehow connected with the huge portal that opened overhead, most likely singling out items to be brought back through it. No known magic duplicates this effect.
The tree survived the earthquake and the battle very well. It did shed a lot of leaves, but that's pretty much it when it comes to damage. The mansion, hovever, did not fare so well. The tremors combined with the activities of the elementals left it seriously damaged. Major repair work will be needed to restore it to its initial state. Only the tower managed to escape unharmed.
Both Hmary and her children are safe. The human mind is a wonderful thing. It is amazing how quickly the brush with death in the form of demons has been pushed to the back of the minds of the people in face of more immediate problems like "where to get more bandages?" and "what are we going to eat?"
First order of business: bring Vedik back.
[We'll start the resurrection next week.]
[Sorry for the late post today.]
[Wold will be down this weekend for site maintenance and upgrades. It should be back up by Monday.]
[Hero points, continued: Monthor gets a hero point for cleverly playing the succubus' attempt at mind control against her.]
The ritual begins - DM Marcin Monday April 28th, 2008 4:33:31 AM
It is time to bring Vedik back.
The Knights gather toghether. Once again it is Tratain's duty to lead the ceremony. Standing in the middle of the group he unrolls the powerful scroll and starts to recite the rite, mixing the invocations to the gods with the descriptions of the deeds and death of Vedik. It would make a good bard's epic.
It is a lenghty and solemn ceremony. Tratain continues in an appropriate level tone of voice as time slowly passes. Finally, when it is at last complete, there is the familiar rippling sensation as the Wold around you starts to fade into blackness. The distant houses vanish first, followed by closer surroudings, and finally you can't see even your own hands, as if a dissatisfied painter was gradually washing a black canvas clean of colors.
You hang in the void as if blind, but comforted by the feeling of presence of others around you. It is hard to judge how long that state lasts - maybe an hour or maybe just a few heartbeats. Then the light starts to slowly return, but the strange place it starts to reveal is painted only in shades of gray.
Draax Monday April 28th, 2008 9:06:05 PM
Draax prepares himself for a trip that is unfortunately becoming too familiar to him.
Dwight d20+9=23 Monday April 28th, 2008 11:12:26 PM
Between the various tasks, Dwight inquires, "What is up with the tree? I suspect it is more than just a tree a druid commonly commune with."
OOC: Seems like I'm missing something about the importance of the tree. --------------------------------
Dwight feels the uncomfortable shudder as the Wold shifts. He feels dizzy, unsettled mentally and perhaps a bit nausetic? (OOC: might not be a word, sorry.)
His fingers itch for the pressure of the bow string, though he knows he could do no harm here, no would that help the reason why he is there.
While the face of Gargul has always been something Dwight knew he would see, he was not looking forward to it for many, many years. Given the scenario, Dwight just might, just might that is, be able to keep his halfling mouth shut.
spot: 23 (does Dwight see any spirits that resemble his dead mother? other halfling?)
Jova Tuesday April 29th, 2008 1:58:08 AM
Before the scroll is read, Jova offers something on the tree.
"Dwight, our friends were searching for information on the tree when I met them. Since that time we have been so busy doing other things, I still hasve no idea about the mysterious tree. It is important though, of that I am certain.
"When we meet Gargul his protegee Gimp may be with him. I can not tell you how to act, or what top say. Just remeber the poweer the 2 can wield, the consequences of speech."
Monthor Tuesday April 29th, 2008 6:23:12 AM
" Bah.. mees and the big Gar know each others well.... Althought, hees mays not be that happy to see us again so soon. "
ACDM Jan Tuesday April 29th, 2008 1:02:24 PM
In amongst the hazy wash of grey, details of the landscape begin to sharpen and become clear. Some of the grey falls to black shadow, allowing some perspective and an appreciation of the immense spread of the Shadowlands all around. Faces are now bathed in the red glow of a wide, slow-moving river only fifteen feet away.
Woldsblood - flowing smoothly toward a gaint, red lake, in a channel that has to be about twenty feet wide. To look at this river is to gaze upon the journey of the souls of the newly dead, on their way to the Lands of Rest, and to the arcane magic wielders of the party, the river is a siren song. Like fresh meat to a starving dog it draws them, implores them to approach, whispering in their ears of power beyond measure. To touch it is death, but...
But then most of the party has been here before, indeed one already walks with one foot always in the land of shadow, and so the dangers are well known.
There is a dark path running along the side of the river, leading to a wide sweep of steps and a platform over the lake.
At the bottom of these steps, a small, familiar creature awaits.
Tratain Tuesday April 29th, 2008 7:30:45 PM
Tratain watches the Wold change around him, until they are in Gargul's Realm. He hears the river calling out but his experience and knowledge of what is happening keep him from wandering too close and he cautions the others to keep thier distance as well.
Tratain glances around and spots the path and the platform, and he supposes Gimp, although it is still a little to far away to be sure.
He heads closer to the platform with the others, and upon confirming that it is indeed Gimp that awaits the party at the bottom of the steps he says "Greetings again Gimp, How are you doing today? Is all well here in Gargul's realm? We must once again ask him for a boon if you could ask him if he is willing to see us again. Oh, and we brought you something. Unfortunately we couldn't find you any strawberries, its not really their season right now and there has just been an earthquake in Plataue City, but we did find a jar of Pears in sweet syrup and some walnuts. Be sure and share some with Lord Gargul after we're off."
Draax Tuesday April 29th, 2008 10:54:31 PM
Draax almost forgot about the little guy, it looks like they were expected. He does not know how he feels about that and he wonders if that is a good or bad thing.
Dwight Tuesday April 29th, 2008 10:56:04 PM
Dwight stands in awe of the flowing stream of woldsblood. The thought of it has always been near his mind, but never fully tapped. Only some personal allegiance prevents him from following his curiousity.
As Tratain advances forward, Dwight follows, wondering if others are 'use to visiting' Gargul's Realm. During the walk down the path, Dwight asks, "Is there anything particular ritual we should do when we see Gargul? Bow perhaps?"
As Tratain addresses 'Gimp,', Dwight is surprised by his casualness and his 'bribe/gift,' not that he disagree with either provided Dwight lives long enough to return to the living Realm.
Jova Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:25:00 AM
It trully had not been that long ago since they had come here. All sorts of feelings overcome him. But as quickly a calmness comes over him. Something akin to home.
Following the others he makes sure none of them venture into the Woldsblood. Not knowing the exact danger of it, he still knew not to get to close. Vedik woul have been safe here, if he were alive.
When they approach Gimp, Jova bows his head, touching his chin to chest. Then the oddest thing happens. He hears his own voice and feels his lips move. The word, solitary word forms and comes forth.
'Master'
Arien Wednesday April 30th, 2008 1:46:11 AM
Arien as usual when dealing with the god of the dead and his realm becomes withdrawn and watchful. Unless addressed directly the elven mage plans to stay silent.
Monthor Wednesday April 30th, 2008 11:35:47 AM
The dwarf kinda looks around quietly... waiting for mig bad Gar to make his appearance.
ACDM Jan Wednesday April 30th, 2008 6:04:05 PM
At the base of the stairs, the creature there listens as Tratain speaks. Gimp's appearance seems slightly different from when the group saw him last, perhaps a little smaller, and less of a man, more of a 'creature', smoother skinned, more childlike, making one wonder about the relative levels of perception in different areas of the Wold. Nevertheless, this is indeed Gimp - who's eyes light up at the mention of pears, syrup and walnuts.
"I love pears - and syrup - and walnuts, thank you," he says with glee, and claps his small hands. "As for how everything is, well -" he gestures out toward the lake, "everything still is, for now anyway."
Gimp then reaches forward and takes the bowed headed Jova's hand. "Let's go see him," he says. And to the others, "Come, this way," before setting off up the stairs.
To those who were here before, Gimp's appearance isn't the only thing that appears different. Standing as they are, in the Shadowlands, possibly the most dangerous place in the Wold, as hundreds of souls sweep by into the lake, there is a sense of knowing this place, and maybe even a feeling of belonging. Why that should be, is harder to pinpoint. Was it because one of the group was a Grim? Or that they had accepted Vedik into their midst? Whatever the reason - belonging - in a place such as this - a dark place at the crux of life and death, a place to be feared, a place where undead roam and stumble between rivulets of blood, a place where crazed liches risk all to perfect their quests for everlasting life. A terrible place. Well, what should be made of that?
"How does it feel to meet up with your shadow once again?" Gimp asks Jova as the group ascends the stairs. And to the others - "Didn't you have a cat with you before? A big stripey cat?" and "Where's Vedik? Why isn't he with you?"
On the platform, Gargul turns, and now the group can see him. An odd illusion - with his back turned, his face looking out over the lake toward the Lands of Rest - he was completely and utterly hidden. but no longer. Now he looks upon the group and his gaze is enough to bring a lump to the throat, and make the heart pound. His world weary features register a brief smile. "Well," he says, "back so soon?"
Tratain Wednesday April 30th, 2008 9:38:30 PM
Tratain takes in the sites of the Shadowlands, and wonders briefly about the faint feeling of belonging he experiences. Greater Wisdom he decides, Death comes to all beings eventually, its not something to fear, and certainly not something to fear Gargul for, after all he isn't responsible for thier deaths. Tending to the souls of the departed is a very important job, and too many people fear Gargul for being the god of the dead, instead of honoring him as the caretaker of all those who have departed the wold. I was guilty of that once Tratain thinks to himself, but we learn, gain wisdom.
When addressed by Gimp Tratain says "I forgot, it has been only about two weeks since we were here last. It seems like so much longer, so many battles we have had to fight in such a short period of time. We lost our friends Lumi and Horvis to a battle with A half-dragon Marilith and a small army of Demons in Fae Skiemir. When we returned to our home, there was a terrible earthquake, and we were attacked twice that night. Once by assasins, once by creatures Our friend Arien has Identified as beings from another plane called the Legion. It was during that second battle that Vedik was killed. We have come to petition for his return to the living."
Atop the platform when Gargul reveals himself Tratain bows politely and gives Gargul a sad smile of his own and says "Yes Lord Gargul. Our friend Vedik was just killed in battle against some creatures called the Legion, we have come to petition for his return again."
Dwight Wednesday April 30th, 2008 10:50:53 PM
Dwight stares in wonder, seeing his second living God since his adventures began. He feels the connection to this place, a place he will eventually call home, but not until much much more has been accomplished.
When Tratain bows, Dwight finds himself too curious to bow much, still trying to recognize some spirit or ghost passing onward.
Gargul is shorter than I thought he would be thinks Dwight. Only luck prevents him from saying it outloud.
Draax Wednesday April 30th, 2008 11:29:03 PM
Draax remains silent, but bows to the god when the god lets his presence be known. The warrior is uncomfortable with the fact that he is no longer uncomfortable when he visits this place. He wonders if the feeling will ever get to the point of the group coming here and not wanting to leave.
Jova Thursday May 1st, 2008 3:43:35 AM
None had ever taken his hand in such a manner. Jova simply allows it to happen, walking alongside the little man. The oddest sensation of parenthood crosses his mind, as though Gimp were the child. Blinking several times he returns to the present.
"Master Gimp, the title of Masterr was and is for you. I figure Lord Gargul needs more attention, and therefore a larger title. I am new at these things, so I hope you grant me fogiveness if I have overstepped.
:I wanted to petition for our friends lives, the cat you mention, and the Centaur. The cat seems to be happy where he is at rest with family and loved ones. I have yet to find anything out about the centaur. As far as missing my shadow, it has been such a short time as young Tratain explains. I have not felt the loss.
"Do you have any information on the Legion? Or maybe why they would cross planes in search of a new enemy. We lack any knowedge, other than heresay on the matter.
At the stairs Jova bowsa his head agaih in reverence saying "My Lord". After Tratain gives the reson, Jova adds shortly, "I think it had been so long since Vedik had seen battle, he forgot the danger. To his credit the danger we faced was terrible and confusaing, as we knew nothing of the enemy. Since Vedik was a gift from your own hands, I felt we needed to come and ask for his life. I am sure you had more plans for him."
Monthor Thursday May 1st, 2008 11:39:57 AM
At the sight of the great god Gargul, Monthor smiles and offers a light wave.
" 'sup Gar... We've been seeing ye so often lately me'll have to add ye to my holiday greeting card list... "
And with that, Monthor laughs.
DM Jan Thursday May 1st, 2008 7:14:50 PM
Gimp is all ears as Tratain and Jova talk of the recent events. Jova's form of address is merely answered with a smile and a squeeze of the hand. As for the events, the creature seems troubled on hearing about the fights, and friends taking other paths and getting lost. "Some say the Lands of Shadow is a terrible place when compared to the Living Wold. And I say that sometimes - they have it the wrong way about." he nods to himself, then lets go of Jova's hand and scampers over to stand next to Gargul.
The God listens, and while Tratain and Jova talk to the deity, Dwight, Draax and Arien, keep their own counsel, enabling them to pay more attention to the surroundings where - right above ther heads - way up there in the void - tiny sparks fly, in the complete opposite direction to the flow of Woldsblood. They appear to be coming from a tall distant tower on the far side of the lake. Sparks of life, about to begin a new journey.
Gimp pulls on Gargul's dark, well-worn robe as the word 'legion' is mentioned. "Legion," the creature says to him, and the God frowns.
Eventually - "So, you know little of this 'Legion'. As it happens, neither do I. Some things have been troubling me lately, things concerning the fabric of the Wold itself, and if there is a force out there who is attempting to turn the Wold inside out, or upside down, then I suspect the more we all know about it, the better." He lets out a sigh. "I had no wish to see you all back here so soon, but I also know the path you tread and the lines of prophecy that bind you. Very well -" He holds up his left hand, which is clenched into a fist, and slowly he lets his fingers uncurl. "Vedik is returned to you. In return I would like you to discover more on this 'Legion' and deliver a report to the Temple of Gargul in Plateau City - in person - once it is ready." he stares at every one of the group in turn. "Can this be done?"
Gimp trundles over to Monthor. "What's a holiday greeting card list?" the creature asks him, genuinely puzzled.
Tratain Thursday May 1st, 2008 9:06:47 PM
Tratain says "Of Course Lord Gargul. We know some already, and we would be glad to discover more. We know they are highly militant, and we have seen them use very good battle tactics. I used a scroll given to us by Queen Maab that is able to detect portals, and I found an echo of the Portal I believe they used. It was huge, large enough to sail a boat through. I am not familiar with any magics able to duplicate that feat."
He continues "One of our comrades back on the Wold warned us of something big comming. I thin they may have been what he was talking about. Although we did just return from Fae Skiemir with some kind of artifact that can create a gate an orb of some sort. When the Legion showed up I was not sure if it was something we cause or not, it was acting strange not long before they showed up. We were looking for a way to destroy the orb, since we believe it to dangerous to continue to exist as it is."
Draax Thursday May 1st, 2008 10:10:36 PM
Draax remains quiet, but he nods his head in agreement when the god looks over at him for confirmation.
Dwight Thursday May 1st, 2008 10:29:20 PM
Dwight sees his opportunity to add something to the conversation without getting himself into trouble.
"Lord, uh, Master, The God of.." the words stumble at first as he realizes to whom he is speaking to. Taking a quick deep breath Dwight pulls it together "They do posses mighty magic, fierce beasts or machine and strong armor. We have just a small piece that we will be examining. I'll do what I can to gather more."
He pauses, adding as an afterthought, "Thank you for returning Vedik, Merciful Lord Gargul."
Jova Friday May 2nd, 2008 2:33:22 AM
After Dwight finishes, Jova adds.
"His name is Dwight. We found him wandering in Fae Skinner. He joined us so to not fall to an early demise. Then you would have met under different cirtcumstance." Jova cackles at the thought. The cackling reminded him of being a demon.
Arien Saturday May 3rd, 2008 1:19:17 AM
Arien nods his acceptance of Gargul's proposal and says, "Anything can be done, though it may take longer than any of us may like."
ACDM Jan Monday May 5th, 2008 1:00:29 AM
((OOC - sorry this post is late, guys! It was Iron Man day on Friday! Then I figured I could play catch up on Saturday and the site went down. Doh!))
Gargul listens to what the group has to say on what they have already learned about the Legion, and glances toward the Isles of Rest at the other side of the lake as Queen Maab is mentioned. "Be wary of this Legion's magic, it is likely to be unstable," he says. And then, "Very well then. I will await news."
It appears the audience is at an end, and already the surroundings are beginning to shift and fade.
As for Vedik, death has been an odd experience. A descending soul, caught and held fast. Not allowed to descend toward the usual path. Caught before it was absorbed by one of the many rivulets of Woldsblood. Caught and held in the ground by an etheral hand, surrounded by worms and the occasional curious burrowing creature, and bathed in the scent of soil and rain. And then the hand slowly lets go, and the soul rises, and settles, back into the fallen adventurer, who now breathes, the smell of his recent tomb still tickling his nostrils.
Dwight d100=18 ; Monday May 5th, 2008 10:58:12 PM
As Dwight realizes he is returning he waves and says "Farewell Grand Lord of the Shadows, may it be many years before we meet again and i mean no insult by this."
Dwight stomach feels worse on the return trip than the initial transport. Perhaps knowing of the dizziness and blur, has made it worse.
OOC: d100 was pointless, just wanted to see what appeared with the new format.
Jova Tuesday May 6th, 2008 2:34:51 AM
Jova nods his head to gargul in assent. Then before they have a chance to leave he approaches Gimp.
"Lord Gargul wishes we report back to him through the Temple in Plateau City. When I approached the Head priest he was less than helpful. Is there a secret sign, or phrase I can use with him to have him allow us to do what we must? Maybe an amuilet or a tattoo. Anything would be nice to aleviate dissention."
ooc-Wanted to ask this on weekend but site was down.
Again! - DM Marcin Tuesday May 6th, 2008 3:38:14 AM
Gimp shakes his tiny, strange head. "No password, no phrase. We do not keep that tight control over every soul that works for us. All of you are more or less free to act as you judge is proper. We act only in extreme circumstances, so if there are difficulties you need to try to work them out yourselves. Don't make HIM come down there, heh?"
The return trip from the realm of the dead is shorter than a blink of an eye. You have been looking at the grinning face of Gimp and a heartbeat later you find your eyes filled with the multitude of colors of the Wold. You are standing once again in what's left of your mansion. Sun has cleared the line of the walls and golden spears of light are illuminating the room. The aroma of freshly cooked stew fills the entire building. Voices of many people can be heard in nearby rooms and corridors. Vedik sighs and his hand moves slightly to his holy symbol, and then he regains consciousness.
At this very moment there is a loud humming sound from the outside that ends with an easy to recognize <pop> - teleport magic is at work in the courtyard one more time! There are screams outside as frightened people run away in all directions. One of Hmary's kids comes running through the corridor weaving his hands wildly: "Hmama, hmama, it happens again!"
Vedik Tuesday May 6th, 2008 7:38:23 AM
Vedik bows before Gargul before that world melts. He ponders the nature of this trip for a moment, but seeing Hmary's child he brushes aside the introspection. Smiling at the child he asks simply "What happens again?"
SUDDENLY..! (DM Donna) Tuesday May 6th, 2008 11:59:11 AM
In the middle of the courtyard to the mansion of the Gray Knights, there suddenly appear four distinctive figures: three elven men and, towering over them, a six-foot-tall human female. The woman is dressed in a slightly-battered but relatively-new-looking mithril breastplate and has a large sword in a sheath slung on her back. Wisps of wavy chestnut hair escape the snood that she wears on her head. Her sharp hazel eyes narrow as she looks around at what is left of the city as well as the condition of the mansion itself.
Those who had been present when the Gray Knights were initially invited to join the Dragon Consortium immediately recognize her as K'Nara Illutu, the leader of the Emerald Dragons.
"Are we...interrupting something..?" she asks.
Draax Tuesday May 6th, 2008 4:16:11 PM
Draax lets out a heavy sigh when the kid says that it is happening again. He knows that the group was fortunate to have only loss one member the last time. Knowing that the group might be the only ones that can save some of the people, Draax goes with his companion to see what is happening.
With his sword and shield ready, Draax is pleasantly surprised to see members of the Dragon Consortium. To answer K'Nara's question Draax says, "Not at this moment, but we would have definitely welcomed an interruption a little earlier."
Monthor Tuesday May 6th, 2008 6:11:00 PM
" Sur.... NOW!!!!! You show up!!!! Where were you guys when we were getting beaten up by a bunch of demons???? "sigh."
Falin Darkshine - Emerald Dragon Tuesday May 6th, 2008 8:00:32 PM
An elf steps forward. His fire red hair and green eyes are in stark contrast with each other. He stands about shoulder height of a nnormal man. He has on the traveling clothes of an adventurer and a bow slung over his shoulder. He is recognizable as one of the Emeralds, but is rarely heard from in gatherings.
Falin looks around him at the damage to both the city and the mansion. "What has happened here?" The concern in his voice is evident as he see's the injured being moved around this part of the city.
"Is there anything we can help with?"
K'Nara & Lian Tuesday May 6th, 2008 8:33:20 PM
The tall chestnut-maned woman's eyebrows elevate after Monthor's outburst.
"Demons?" she repeats, grimacing at Draax. "Sorry we didn't get here sooner--I'm sure Lian would have loved to beat on an incubus or two with his bare fists and all." Lian--whom Jova will remember is a Hand of Domi--grins at K'Nara.
"As if you and Lucia would leave any pieces for me." he teases back.
Tratain Tuesday May 6th, 2008 9:12:30 PM
Tratain, preparing for the worst when the children come running in is relieved when it is the Emerald Dragons.
He responds to the Dragons questions, "Its been a very long night for us" he says Gesturing at the ruined city. "Around Midnight a massive earthquake struck the city, at the same time some assassins attacked out house here trying to collapse it. We fought them off, but they managed to teleport away so we spent the night trying to save as many people as we could throughout the city."
He continues "Not to long ago we had to chase down a few Succubus's, a side effect of something we brought back with us from Fae Skiemir. When we returned to the mansion after destroying them we found what is best described as a scouting or assault team of some Demons called the Legion. We don't know much about them aside from the fact that they're highly organized, use advanced combat tactics, and that the Tanari have lost two wars against them in thier own plane. The portal they used to get here is unlike anything we have ever encountered before, it was massive, big enough to sail a pretty big ship through, its not something that any Wizard I have met can duplicate."
"We tried to fight them but we were tired from helping in the city all night, we were fatigued, out of spells mostly so it didn't go all that well. We retreated and had Dwight watch them for us. They took things with them when they left, odds and ends, foods and other random items like they were just taking random things to study, oh and they took 8 people with them whom I think were part of the same group who tried to kill us earlier, They got caught in the middle of our fight with the Demons and were taken pretty easily it seems."
Dwight Tuesday May 6th, 2008 10:54:28 PM
Dwight was at first alarmed and is seen as a hafling with a shortbow already knocked and ready to fire. Even at the Emerald's first appear he holds his ground until conversation begins. Then he lessens some. Not until his name is mentioned does he unknock his bow.
He nods to the Emeralds in a gesture of hello and takes in their appearance, trying to recall if any are familiar from his long ventures in the Crescent Valley.
"Their tactics were indeed organized, and they seemed to communicate without speaking as I don't recall much talking as they made precise military movements. A piece of armor was knocked off of them, I have it in my bag here. It is quite hard, but we haven't had time to look at it in more detail. I suppose it might be just that, a type of armor, with some unknown critter inside."
Dwight rummages in his sack for just a second to produce the piece for all to see.
Jova Wednesday May 7th, 2008 12:46:51 AM
Time was wearing on him. Exhaustion was not far off. Upon reaching the mansion, he sees the apparition of the Emerald Dragons that they had broke bread with. He listens to the others, and then adds, while leaning against a building.
"It is a fine day to see so many friends amongst the living. Welcome Dragons to Platau City. The short one there talking about the armor is Dwight, a refugee from Faw Skiennir. You may notice the liontaur, and centaur who traveled with us are no longer among the living. Alas the have passed on. Juliander also has left us disappearing without a trace in the cursed city of Fae Skinner.
"I also partook of death outside the city, but was raised due to the grace of Gargul. Now that I think about it 4 died in that accursed place, the quest was expensive. But we did get Dwight. And did you see the other dwarf, not Monthor, but Vedik. A dwarf who is a Fixer of the old school. He had been dead some 10 years, but Gargul raised him to travel with us. And then we failed, Vedik died once again. Which brings us to this 'Legion'. So we are returning, just, raising Vedik again. I fear we have worn out the welcome mat at Garguls door."
Jova slumps down the wall slowly as he recounts the story, until he is sitting on the ground.
Unexpected Guests - DM Marcin Wednesday May 7th, 2008 4:07:04 AM
The initial outburst of panic is quickly replaced by curiosity when it turns out it's not another batch of demons that just teleported in. Small groups of people start to rubberneck the meeting, all keeping respectful distance. All around the city starts to pick itself up from pieces. Smoke is rising from the chimneys of those houses that still stand. Angry shouts are heard in the distance as tempers run short on this sunny morning.
The armor Dwight mentions is not just a piece, it looks more like a complete set and weighs quite a bit, too. Resembling a bit a full plate it is sized and shaped for a birdlike humanoid, with arm and leg guards too thin for a human-sized being to ever hope to fit into it. The helmet, broken by Draax's sword, was shaped like a head of a large bird of prey and did not have eyeslits. The armor is made of some kind of dark alloy that does not shine in the light at all. The dark blades are still present on the gauntlets. It might be quite valuable for a researcher or a master smith. Sadly, there is not a sign of the creature's body. The inside of the armor is fouled by black goo that reeks of brimstone.
Vedik Wednesday May 7th, 2008 7:58:19 AM
The old dwarf eyes the Emerald Dragons with a mixture of wariness and caution. Perhaps his recent trip to Garguls realm has made him cranky. He goes and puts on his gear, and retrieves the Catacombs package thats waiting for him, and returns to the group. After all the introductions have been made, he asks flatly.
"So you're the ones that killed Lord Parnoth? We've been waiting to hear this tale, I can tell you."
OOC: Dressed in white, the figure before you wears the colors of Alemi. Of average height for a Dwarf, his greying brown hair is close cut, and he wears his beard short. Steel Grey eyes watch you, and you can sense quite wisdom and calculation behind them. Over his silvery plate armor is a full length vestment, white with red-brown trim. In the center of the vestment is an open hand, also red-brown as if stained by long hours working with the earth. His left arm carries a shield and a dark metal mace is attached to his belt. You notice that his hands are dirty, as if he has just come in from the field.
Lian and K'Nara Wednesday May 7th, 2008 6:37:11 PM
As the explanations of the state of the city, the state of the Gray Knights and the state of expectation the Knights have about getting the lowdown on the fate of Parnoth are made known, K'Nara exchanges glances with the other Emerald Dragons.
"Listen, why don't we take this inside?" she suggests. "That way we won't...draw undue attention." Whether or not the Gray Knights take this hint, the Hand of Domi, entirely clad in grey with green trim, greets the Knights with enthusiasm and shakes each hand in turn.
"Well done, Knights. Fae Skiemir was a nasty piece of work...we know all too well." His smile slackens. "Now I wish I could say that what your in for is a treat, but a Dragon's life is no Green Gnomish. Good luck."
"What Lian is trying to say..." the tall human female hastily adds, "...is that...well, while we will be happy to help you out with aiding Plateau City in its time of crisis--we are here to assign to you your next test for the Dragon Consortium." K'Nara rolls her shoulders.
"But...you did ask about Parnoth," The blade singer recalls. "There...isn't really much to relate about that. We confronted him in an effort to assess his...um...mental faculties...and then...the Culverwood ate him." K'Nara scowls a bit as she relates this--it's clear to see that she found that tableau more than a little disturbing.
Draax Wednesday May 7th, 2008 6:49:46 PM
Draax listens as everyone adds to the story. Like Vedik, Draax is interested in story about the death of Lord Parnoth. He adds another piece to the story about the demons, "I can tell you one thing about those bird type creatures. Every time they touched me, they took something from me. I did not feel whole again until Tratain used his wand of restoration to restore what was taken from me."
He begins clearing an area to allow him to sit down, "The people of the city could still use any help that is offered, but if you want to help us, I think using your resources to learn as much about these creatures as possible would be a nice start. I have a feeling we are going to clash with them again and I would rather fight them on our terms instead of their."
Once he clears a space, Draax sits down and begins wiping his sword with a cloth just to do something that feels familiar to him.
Monthor Wednesday May 7th, 2008 9:23:19 PM
Monthor follows the others inside.
Tasks are all nice and dandy but... does anyone have anything to eat???
All kidding aside, before we go anywhere we need to provide protection for our home and the people that live here... at the very least for the kids and their ma.
Monthor ooc> Wednesday May 7th, 2008 9:29:43 PM
HEY!!! Awsome looking Grey Knights shield up on the Career Game board. Thanks a heep "powers that be."
Dwight d100=43 ; d100=17 ; d20=4 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d20=18 ; d20=16 ; d20=16 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; d6=6 ; d6=2 ; d20=9 ; d20=13 ; d20=19 ; d6=4 ; d6=2 ; d6=4 ; d6=3 ; d20=6 ; d100=87 ; d8=3 ; d6=5 ; d100=37 ; d8=2 ; d100=10 ; d20=19 ; d6=6 ; d8=2 ; d20=10 ; d8=5 ; d20=1 ; Wednesday May 7th, 2008 9:59:40 PM
Dwight follows everyone inward. Just before entering he looks to the sky and feels a level of comfort he lacked in the Wold of Shadows.
OOC: Sorry about the dice rolls. Son (6), got a hold of the mouse after I loaded the page and then had to do something.
Vedik (2nd) Wednesday May 7th, 2008 10:57:12 PM
Vedik nods at K'Nara's words.
"I'm glad to hear ya say that. We heard that your group had attacked and killed him, and ya can imagine that caused some concern. Although it makes the subject of what actually happened to him a bit of a mystery. And given the legends surrounding the contingencies he had in place should he die, these strange goings on the last few days have me doubly worried. Were yer mages able to tell anything about the magics involved in his disappearance?"
Tratain Wednesday May 7th, 2008 11:01:02 PM
Tratain greets Lain and says to K'Nara "Lets use the tower, we're using the Mansion as a makeshift hospital. Most of the City was leveled so we're using whatever we can. I'm sure that the people of the City will take any assistance that is offered to them." Tratain then leads everyone to the Tower.
Once inside he says "No one's in here so we can talk freely. You can tell us about our second test, also feel free to ask us anything about the first test as well. Since you are here talking to us its pretty obvious that we went to Fae Skiemir and came back. We were unsure as to how much money to put away for the castle so we started with a bit over 200,000 put away for it, and I'm sure we can get more if we need it."
He continues "Some of us have questions and concerns over Parnoth. He was evil and needed to be dealt with, but we've heard some troubling things. We've been told by a Dragon friend of ours that Parnoths killing has caused tension between the Consortium and the Dragon Council, the extent of which he wasn't sure. I got the feeling that some in the Council were upset. He also told us Parnoth made no secret of the fact that he basically held the Emerald Kingdom hostage with many contingency's that would cause great harm to the people there were he ever killed. We would hate for the Freeing on the Emerald Kingdom to end in tragedy for its people."
Arien Thursday May 8th, 2008 1:58:59 AM
The elven mage is still somewhat withdrawn from their encounter with Gargul, relatively pleasant though it was. When the group suggests retiring to the tower to speak in private Arien excuses himself and returns to his quarters, looking for the map he had traced the pattern of the earthquakes on. If he can find the map amidst the chaos he will return with it and show the Emerald Dragons, explaining what it showed, otherwise he will simply explain to them what he had discovered, that the earthquakes were possibly caused by a hypothetical motivating force as it completes huge circles around the Elennian Peninsula, moving hundreds of miles in a day and always returning to the central parts of the land - western Culverwood.
Jova Thursday May 8th, 2008 2:04:43 AM
Since the outside was the new inside of the mansion, and there was wounded everywhere, Jova stayed sprawled next to the wall he had been leaning on. When the subject ot a second task was stated Jova simply says, State your desire, we wil put it on the list of things to do."
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Thursday May 8th, 2008 2:38:04 AM
K'Nara frowns thoughtfully at the news of how the Dragon Consortium and the Dragon Council are at odds.
"We're interrupting a...diplomatic mission to Izen to tell you of your next test." she explains. "This is the first I've been told of any such...tension. Obviously we're going to have to explain what really happened to Parnoth." She pauses, clearly thinking long and hard before addressing Vedik's voiced concerns.
"Well...you really had to be there to...ah...appreciate what happened." K'Nara tells the group. "I mean...my party had just killed at least one red dragon...and had attacked Parnoth...but...to tell you the truth...we didn't slay him ourselves...the...the Culverwood came to life and...ate him." She looks to Ingrge, hoping the Elven weapon mage can explain what actually happened a bit more clearly.
OOC: I'm leaving it to the DM to determine whether Arien finds the map to show to the EDs.
In the tower - DM Marcin Thursday May 8th, 2008 3:27:03 AM
Both groups retire to the privacy the tower offers. Draax finds a comfortable place to sit and Monthor makes sure some food is brought in. It is not a king's feast, but still a healthy, filling meal. Arien vanishes for a moment and is soon back with his map.
The old, thick walls of the tower still have the chill of the night in them. The voices of the outside world have been muffled out. The tower offers shelter from curiosity of prying eyes and unwanted adulation.
Tratain Thursday May 8th, 2008 7:15:14 AM
Tratain says "I have never heard of anything like that before, The culverwood swallowed him? I knew things had changed somewhat with the return of the Fae King, but not this much. It concerns me though, Parnoth is supposed to be the second oldest and most powerful of the dragons alive today, I doubt that the forest killed him. Could he eventually exert his will through the forest? Turn it against the people of the Emerald Kingdom? You said you were investigating his mental state when the battle broke out, between his madness you were investigating and probably his rage at being attacked could he turn the Culverwood?"
Vedik Thursday May 8th, 2008 9:03:21 AM
Vedik sighs deeply at the news that there was in fact an attack.
"Parnoth was a tyrant and a foul lord, there is no question there. But he was also the lawful ruler of a nation. To depose him in open war, this is one thing. For a small group to attempt to assassinate him, this has implications far beyond the scope of this action. How will the other rulers of the neighboring nations react to the news? Will they feel threatened by your presence in their kingdom, wondering if you will move against them because you do not like their rule? Did the Dragon Consortium sanction this attack? If so, the Consortiums reputation may end up tarnished. Truthfully, I hope they did not.
It is unclear if these earthquakes and strange gates are part of the contingencies or not, but much life has been lost to them, and much was destroyed. Alemi takes neither lightly. We should work together to find out all we can about these happenings, and stop them."
The old dwarf leans back on his chair and strokes his beard thoughtfully.
"I am sorry if I come across harshly. I am cranky. The last time I walked the wold, Plateau City was freshly destroyed from the Year of Ascension. Finding it rebuilt was the greatest joy I've felt since Lord Gargul returned me less than a month ago, and seeing it damaged my greatest sorrow. Being eviscerated by extra planar beings and seeing Gargul again today did not help my mood either" Here he chuckles.
"Come, tell us our mission, and let us share what hospitality we can provide."
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Thursday May 8th, 2008 9:49:30 AM
Tratain's line of questioning prompts K'Nara to nod and murmur agreement to the gist of his conversation.
"Yes, I know it seems odd to you--you're a City dweller...you don't realize that the Culverwood was always a place that had a mind of its own...even before the return of the Fae King." the leader of the Emerald Dragons says. "But the Culverwood has definitely grown in power and...initiative. Emerald City itself is finding itself very hard-pressed to maintain the traditional trappings of civilization--you know...paved streets, fortified masonry walls...that sort of thing? The forest keeps encroaching on the walls now...and green shoots continually push up through the pavement on the outermost reaches of the town."
Vedik's unfortunate means of expressing himself, however, does not sit well with K'Nara.
"Assassinate???" the tall redhead hisses, her utter displeasure quite evident on her face. "How dare you...you..." K'Nara's face begins to get even more red than her hair and her hands clench into fists. It is clear to see she is gnashing her teeth and fighting to keep her temper in check as well.
Falin Thursday May 8th, 2008 12:25:51 PM
Listening intently Falin gets a little flushed at talk of assasination. He does not bother keeping his anger in check.
"How dare you sir," Falin says to Vedik through clenched teeth. "That abomination kidnapped my sisters and forced them into slavery. He slaughtered my entire family and burned my families home to the ground. If you feel the need to judge or cast blame I was the one that fired the shot on him and I would do it again."
He closes his eyes and takes a breath. "He has done that to thousands of other elves. I don't expect you to understand being a dwarf, but I know the Wold is a better place without him and I know the Emerald Kingdom is a better place without him."
Tratain Thursday May 8th, 2008 5:37:41 PM
When tempers begin to flare Tratain says "Peace everyone. Take a minute to regain your calm."
"Emerald Dragons, Vedik and I have spoken about this topic often since we have learned of Parnoths Demise. I share a lot of his concerns. Let me start by saying that we understand we are outsiders to your nation, I have only been to the Emerald Kingdom briefly, and have not had to see what he has done up close. Parnoth was a tyrant, we do not question that, nor do we question the fact that something needed to be done about him or that it was your right to finally end him. That distance though gives us an insight different to your own that while unpleasant to hear may be beneficial in the end."
He continues "We have concerns, about the consequences of what happened. I think it would be best if we speak about it here and now, in private between friends and comrades where no one else can overhear. If you will allow us to play Devil's Advocate so to speak, we may yell, scream and maybe get mad at each other but better we address those concerns here in private. You react very strongly to the notion that killing Parnoth then and there was not the correct thing to do. He has not been gone for very long, everyone is in shock at the unexpectedness of what happened. How long will it be before one of his Lieutenants, who thinks that he or she should hold Parnoths throne next or an invader from another nation calls you not only assassins, but throw in Murderer's and Usurpers in a deliberate attempt to provoke your anger. To portray you as unfit to have any say in what goes on in the future in the Emerald Kingdom instead of the Hero's and Liberators that you are."
Tratain concludes "I pray to all the gods of light that we are being too pessimistic, that everything will turn out for the better with no complications at all. But if we are mostly or even partly correct we need to be prepared. If it was not us who brought this up, but one of your enemies, in a public venue in front important people and you reacted with the anger you showed here how would that look? How would they respond?"
Monthor Thursday May 8th, 2008 5:42:40 PM
" yes... chillax all of ye.... your bickering is upseting me sensitivities.... Me may even lose me apetite... well, maybe not... but me may spill me drink!!!... Nah, that won't happen.... Oh never mind... "
Ingrge Thursday May 8th, 2008 5:46:31 PM
Having been listening from the back Ingrge feels it is time to step in and try to explain a few things as things begin to heat up.
Excuse me all, K'nara, Falin, Vedik. There seems to be a misunderstanding here.
We went to Parnoth's palace to remove two red dragons that had been attacking citizens of the Emerald Kingdom and had taken residence within Parnoth's palace. We killed the first when we were attacked. The second we killed with Parnoth's permission, but again only after being attacked. We never went to the Palace with the idea to kill Parnoth, unless it was true, as Parnoth's own chamberlain told us, that he was insane and under the control of the reds. During the battle Parnoth was struck by one arrow and then the Elder of the Culverwood and the magic of the Culverwood attacked, overcame, and absorbed Parnoth.
And though he certainly deserved to die many times over for the things he had done to the people of the Culverwood, enslaving the elves and the dwarves of his kingdom just for starters, not to mention what he had done to the Culverwod itself, there was never an assasination attempt planned or carried out by us.
As for him being the lawful ruler of a nation, the Culverwood and areas surrounding were all once governed and run by the Elves of the Woods until they were killed and enslaved by an invading Parnoth. So one could say that the balance has now returned to what it once was.
As for one of his lieutenants taking over, so to speak, currently we have appointed his own chancellor as regent until we and those leaders of the region can come together to organize and start up an appropriate government. We do not and never have wanted to be stuck ruling any one place when our calling is to the Wold as a whole. So in order to be called Usurpers, we would have to take over the rule of law and the kingdon. We have not and will not nor do we want to do so. Anyone who has killed for whatever can be called a murderer, but in this case we did kill Parnoth, nor do we know if he is actually dead in the true sense of the word. In fact though it pains me to do so I may have to try and seek him in the realm of shadows to see if he actually is dead. And as I mentioned we have never moved from the shadows to play assassin with anyone or anything.
Dwight Thursday May 8th, 2008 5:52:02 PM
Dwight looks around as everyone talks, voices get louder and tempers begin to flair. Tall folks, and dwarves for sure, are so quick to anger and slow to forget. If only they thought of the important things first, food, family and fun , Dwigh thinks to himself.
"I can say that I spent much of my youth near the Culverwood, and some of my early adventuring days. The Culverwood of now, is very different than it was then. Hard to say how exactly, but just walking through it, you can feel the forest absorbing your presence and perhaps making judgements. It was at times a very unsettling sensation."
Draax Thursday May 8th, 2008 7:36:15 PM
As tempers begin to rise, Draax remains sitting. He calmly continues to clean his sword as he waits for things to calm down. He was not concerned that the dragon was dead, he just wanted to hear the story. Now that he has heard what happened, he no longer thinks about it. He daydreams a little while he waits to find out what their new tasks will be.
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Thursday May 8th, 2008 9:47:56 PM
The tall human female continues to scowl for a moment, then blows out a single, sharp breath.
"Thank you, Ingrge." she says to the weapon mage, then eyes the Gray Knights, Vedik in particular. "I should hope that this clears up any questions about my family's...I mean, my colleagues' motives for going to see Parnoth in the first place. I...suppose I should thank you, though--if you all had the idea that the Emerald Dragons had gone looking to assassinate Parnoth, then gods only know what ideas may exist in the heads of the Consortium and the Dragon Council. Obviously this is something that we'll have to address in the near future." She aims this last comment at her fellow EDs.
"Public relations aside--" K'Nara says brusquely, "--the Emerald Dragons are here, now, in order to tell you your next assigned Dragon Test...which seems to go hand-in-hand with these strange earthquakes you've mentioned. You see, the Consortium wants you to find out about those earthquakes and exactly what they may mean to the Wold."
Vedik Thursday May 8th, 2008 11:14:36 PM
Vedik shakes his head.
"Perhaps we are not explaining things clearly, because you keep going back to your intentions and motives. Let me state this directly. Your intentions in this do not matter to me. I fully believe that you acted with goodly intentions, and that you did not plan this. Thats not the point. You can not wave your hand and say he was bad so we were justified. You are not an army, or a representative of any nation. You did not go to war. You directly had a hand in the removal of the ruler of a nation. Do you not see the problems that causes? You admit your responsibility is to the Wold, but your act may be the biggest destabilizing force since the Year of Ascension. There could be civil war, there could be an invasion of the Culverwood by outside nations taking advantage of the absence of Parnoth. There might even be forces out there seeking to have you stand trial. And by your own admission you did not know about the legends of contingencies, and did nothing to remove them. Ariens map indicates that the disruptions go back to the Western Culverwood. I'm no scholar, but it seems to me that there might be a connection between the earthquakes and Parnoth's death. That you do not seem to be acknowledging these realities and did not plan for them frankly shocks me."
Jova Friday May 9th, 2008 12:42:48 AM
Jova finally gets to his feet and follows the others. Once inside he drops to the floor and listens to the conversation. When a break in the speeches open he will add his thoughts.
"So if I understand this correctly the Culverwood ate Parnoth. No dead body to bury? It seems presumptuos to say that you haave killed him. He may be alive still in the bowels of the earth. Like friend Vedik mentions precption is all that matters. Especially since you are Dragons. Simply put your story should simply be the Culverwood swallowed him. Leave it at that."
Arguing - DM Marcin Friday May 9th, 2008 4:49:15 AM
Raised voices echo in the dark, somber chamber of the tower as it slowly becomes clear that the demise of Parnoth will be viewed by everyone from a different perspective, even if they share affiliations. It also seems that one could easily expect the old proverb about the rumor going around the world before the truth puts its boots on to be proven true in the near future once again...
Tratain Friday May 9th, 2008 7:28:12 AM
Tratain seeing the discussion comming to a stalemate says "We would be happy to investigate the cause of the earthquakes and what they may mean."
He continues "Before you return though I'll give you my concerns, I apologize in advance as i'm going to be very blunt and straightforward. We ask that you look past your current elation that your greatest enemy is gone and see what might go wrong in the future and plan for it."
"You say that you did not kill Parnoth, according to our friend on the Dragon council they Think you might have. They are not quite sure it is not a trick orchestrated by Parnoth but thier second thought is that you killed him, and our friend did not know what the implications for future cooperation between the consortium and council would be. Also while not your original intention when you traveled to Parnoth's Palace, your friend freely admits that he fired shots at Parnoth and would do so again. Not to put to fine a point on it but for whatever the reason, be it you thought he was insane, you saw weakness or even just flipped a coin you went into his home and attacked him. Unless all of his Palace servants and Guards were gone for the day someone inside there probably saw that and the news will spread. We the descision was made to attack him normally has three outcomes, You kill him, he kills you, or one side retreats and you have just started a civil war in the Emerald Kingdom. Well no one could have foreseen that the forest would eat him, so you technically did not kill him but you meant to your enemies will say. It is also possible that you get the Credit/Blame anyway for what happened because of some political ploy to maneuver the Emerald Dragons out of the equasion in your Kingdom."
"How or why Parnoth died is really a secondary concern though. It was very easy for us to learn that Parnoth made no real secret that he had plan in place that would decimate the Emerald Kingdom should he ever be removed from power. Our friend on the Dragon Council believed it, and we see no reason to question his judgement in it. He told us he feared ruin for the people of the Emerald Kingdom if they were not all removed before he was moved against. If you did not plan to kill him when you originally went to his palace does that mean you didn't finish removing all of contingencies? How many are left and how do we deal with them?"
Tratain finishes "I have other concerns if you would like to hear them, but those really are the biggest ones."
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Friday May 9th, 2008 11:19:10 AM
"What it comes down to is this," K'Nara says after members of the Gray Knights speak their piece, "The Emerald Dragons did what they had to do...and continue to do so, for the security of not just the Emerald Kingdom and the Culverwood, but the entire Wold. Much as I would love to enlighten you, I can't cram decades of personal experience living under Parnoth's rule into your hearts and minds.
"Parnoth is dead. The Emerald Dragons are responsible for his death. We are all fully aware that Parnoth had 'contingencies' in place. We are actually in the middle of investigating those contingencies as well as securing a democratic government to fill the void left by him. We have taken the time out from those duties to assign to your group the next Dragon Test...which, by the way, will shed a little bit of light on the correlation of these earthquakes of yours." The human blade singer pauses a moment before continuing.
PLAYER OOC: I have to go to work now, but K'Nara will give the details about the mission for the GKs...which includes information about what the Consortium suspects about the source of the earthquakes--which is NOT the death of Parnoth.
Falin Friday May 9th, 2008 2:35:51 PM
The rage and hatred slowly leaves Falin face and is replaced with something else... a saddened look. "I am sorry for my outburst," he says looking down at the floor. "I have let my personal feeling detract from coming here to announce your next assignment."
"And I apologize for the outburst directed towards you Vedick. I was way out of line as we are all allowed to have an opinion and we are all professionals and friends here."
He waits to see what K'Nara says and if he can possibly add to it.
Donna OOC: minor spelling edits--Jamie, you shouldn't be in such a rush when you type! ;D
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Friday May 9th, 2008 6:13:45 PM
The leader of the Emerald Dragons lifts a hand and uses it to squeeze Falin's shoulder comfortingly.
"You've spoken of noticing a pattern of earthquakes recently." K'Nara says to the Gray Knights. "Well, you aren't the only ones. Sages within the Dragon Consortium have been tracking volcanic and seismic activity on the Ellenian Peninsula and have reported that--over the past few months--this activity has been on the rise. There have been many minor earthquakes and several more serious ones. The area where the tremors were most numerous is the Western Culverwood." She pauses again.
"This activity has occurred over the past few months," the redheaded human repeats pointedly, "And Parnoth's demise occurred only a few weeks ago." K'Nara's hazel eyes glint, but then she continues.
"The sages, in analyzing the activity, are certain of one thing--it isn't natural. The information they've been able to obtain and put together seems to implicate a group that you may or may not be familiar with...the Sons of Dread..?"
Ingrge Friday May 9th, 2008 6:14:49 PM
Vedik did you not listen to what was just said? There was one arrow fired at Parnoth and I somehow doubt that one arrow could kill him, but I also believe I just said that the Culverwood took him. We did not kill Parnoth.
As for his guards they were in attendance at the time aiding us in killing the two red dragons and keeping the populace safe. In fact, a good portion of them actually travelled with us to the palace in the first place.
As for the possible long term consequences that may arise from Parnoth's death, some of those are already under control. He had two artifacts that controled imprisoned monsters that he could release given time to do so. Those are now under our direct control.
You keep mentioning this friend on the Dragon Council, but you do not name him or her. Why is that? You say that these earth quakes that you have felt seem to originate from the Western Culverwood and you seem to think that there is a connection between these disturbances and Parnoth's death, but you offer nothing but supposition and speculation and place all blame on us. What is to say that the Son's of Dread are not behind it all and they are doing this because of your persecutions? Or for that matter that it is not becasue of something that is going on inside Bone Mountain in response to the Orc incursion.
We can all place blame at someone's door and back it with supposition all day long, but that gets noone anywhere except irritated and upset.
Those whom are our, your, and the Wold's enemies will say what they want about whomever they want and there is nothing that is going to stop them and very little we can do about it until such a time that it occurs. And in all honesty we can't worry about what people might be going to say about something we might or might have done. Our job is to respond to the needs of the Wold and to deal with the issues as they come up. Yers it would be nice to be omniscient and omnipotent so that we knew what everyone of our actions was going to cause or exacerbate, but we do not. Nor does your friend on the Dragon Council. If this unnamed "friend" has any factual knowledge and information that can aid in solving these problems then perhaps it is he that needs to come forward and talk with us.
Falin Friday May 9th, 2008 8:40:47 PM
Clearing his throat the elf chimes in.
"A man was found in the Emerald Forest who we believe is a member of the Son's of Dread. He was found deprived of all his senses. Through some checking it has been found that his soul is trapped in Koshe-Marr. Alot of strange things have been found on his person. We found alot of gems that radiate some strong necromancy magiks and we found a journal written in an unknown language."
He pauses for a second to swallow and then continues on. "The journal has been partially decrypted. He seemed to have moved about a lot, visiting some of the sites of the earthquakes just before the disasters struck. He is now being held in a secret location."
He pauses and closes his eyes for a second making mental notes to ensure he is getting everything right. There was so much stuff and he wanted to make sure he was giving it right.
Monthor Sunday May 11th, 2008 7:19:21 AM
" If it's secret... how are we gonna talk to him???"
And then he grins and eats some more....
Draax Sunday May 11th, 2008 1:07:48 PM
Draax only pays half attention to the conversations going on around him, but once the "Sons of Dread" is mentioned, he turns his full attention to what is being said.
"Yea, we know of the "Sons of Dread" and have had our share of run ins with them. I and probably a few of my team mates believe that they are responsible for the a few of the assassinate attempts on the group. If it was not for the appears of these recent demons, I would have thought them responsible for everything that happened her. If they are responsible for the quakes, I would not be surprised."
Arien Sunday May 11th, 2008 2:23:16 PM
Arien grows impatient with the arguements and was on the verge of saying so before the Sons were mentioned. The elven mage's eyes narrow as he listens to Draax and waits for one of the Emeralds to respond.
Dwight Sunday May 11th, 2008 4:38:34 PM
Dwight remains sitting and listening. He doesn't have much to offer being new to the 'group' and big time politics. He thinks on his own interactions with the Sons of Dread, which was minimal and a long time ago.
Tratain Sunday May 11th, 2008 9:51:48 PM
Tratain sighs, they miss the point. He'll just have to hope they really do have everything under control and no one dies because of what happened.
He says "May we have the journal to examine? And I guess where Arien has determined is the center of the quake activity will a good place to start."
Jova Monday May 12th, 2008 12:55:51 AM
Jova simply raises his fingers counting the points. One hand one set of points, other hand, other set of points. But he keeps his mouth closed.
The Second Quest - DM Marcin Monday May 12th, 2008 4:08:01 AM
The topic of Parnoth being exhausted the groups turn their attention to the main reason of the visit. When the omnious name of the Dread is pronounced it hangs heavily in the air and one feels as if a cloud passed over the sun.
Vedik Monday May 12th, 2008 8:03:40 AM
The old dwarf follows Tratains lead and drops the subject of Parnoth for the time being. He listens carefully, absorbing and processing all that is said but remaining quiet for now. Occasionally he scratches his beard.
Dwight Monday May 12th, 2008 10:16:37 AM
Dwight looks to the Emerald Dragons, "To what end would earthquakes help even the sons of dread? The shaking of the Wold damages everything, including their own structures."
Waiting for a response, he awaits the expected answer, That is what you have been ask to find as your second quest
Falin Monday May 12th, 2008 12:37:00 PM
"Oh, I appologize, the journal and all of his belongings are with him at, "Falin pauses and leans in towards the others and in a hushed tone says, " at a shrine to Alemi."
Looking to Dwight Falin says, "We don't have an answer for you and for that I appologize. Right now we are spread thin looking into other matters. So I have to give you the canned answer. We need you to find out the link between the Son's of Dread and the earthquakes."
Draax Monday May 12th, 2008 9:43:00 PM
"If we can not look at the journal or talk to the man, can you tell us about anything that was in it or that he said that could help us? I am pretty sure that there are members of the Consortium that are aware of the history between the Knights and the "Sons of Dread". So the Consortium probably knows that the SoDs are hunting us as much as we are hunting them. Right now they have an advantage because they know we will eventually return to our place in the city. So, any information that you can provide that will give us the advantage or put us on even ground would be appreciated."
Draax listens to the other members as he waits to hear if the Dragons can give the group any other information.
Jova Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:32:44 AM
Looking in Dwights direction Jova addresses him. " I may be able to shed light on that. While trapsing across the plains of Elehnna, in a merchant train full of weaponry, i was able to talk to several military men. One of the conversations focused solely on the justification of raiding. Large armies raid settlements befoe they invade because it cripples the countryside. The people try and pick up their lives, and thusly are ill prepared for the upcoming invasion.
"So just have we have witnessed, the crabsd, and their bird fighters may have been such, a raiding party. Their goal to soften us up before the invasion. What a bonus if they actually were behind the eathquakes. This would give them a tremendous advantage. They could soften up their enemies long before invading. As far as ruining buildings and such, most conquerors want to rebuild their acquired kingdos in their own images. The quakes coul.d expedite the process."
Reasons for earthquakes - DM Marcin Tuesday May 13th, 2008 2:54:16 AM
It slowly becomes clear exactly how little is now known about the earthquakes, the power behind them, and its reasons for causing these acts of destruction.
Outside of the tower a cart can be heard rattling on the cobblestones, carrying barrels of fresh water for one of the improvised hospitals. This is followed by buzzing of a saw - the rebuilding has already begun.
Falin Tuesday May 13th, 2008 8:17:28 AM OOC: Well, I think Donnas Internet is down so you have to deal with me finishing this off :)
"I hope you did not think you could not see the man. The shrine is several miles North of Perpagail in the Emerald Kingdom. And for all the speculation we can create it really comes down to how little we really know about the causes and motives behind the earthquakes. The sages are all puzzled too, but they have come to the realization that the Sons must have vast resources... vast resources to achive what the earthquakes on the scale they are happening. And right now the only thing they seem to be acomplishing is destruction."
VedikCurrent Spells Tuesday May 13th, 2008 8:29:56 AM
Vedik ponders all that is being said. "Your words are wise Jova. Those creatures did have the feel of a scouting party."
He turns to Tratain. "I can be ready to leave within two hours, less if need be. How many lesser restoration spells do you need me to prepare? Also, if we are going to wait longer than two hours, I would like to assist with the repairs to the city."
Lastly he regards the Emerald Dragons. "I am glad to have met you. I hope when we next speak, we are all a bit wiser."
If Tratain gives leave, he goes to his room and begins his morning prayers.
OOC: Fatigued
Tratain Tuesday May 13th, 2008 9:05:00 PM
Tratain says "We should head out as soon as we can, we'll go right after we prepare spells. We'll go to the Temple The Emerald Dragons have the man at and go see what we can learn. After that if we get no other leads from him we can head for the place where Arien has determined is the Center of the Quakes."
He says to the Dragons "We will see you again after we have stopped the earthquakes. We can not and will not fail in this. To many lives depend on the fact that we succeed. Safe Journeys in your Travels Sword Brothers."
Tratain tells Vedik "We need to cast the spell on You, Arien, Jova, Dwight, and Myself, I will memorize 3 if you can do the other two. I will also Memorize a windwalk spell for us to speed our travel."
Monthor Tuesday May 13th, 2008 9:41:48 PM
Sounds good to me.... do we need to replenish on the potions and stuff? This earthquake took a tole on our supplies...
Dwight Tuesday May 13th, 2008 10:29:32 PM
As things seem to be wrapped up, Dwight nods to the departing Emerald Dragons and turns to the others to ask about armor he has. "Does anyone have indepth knowledge about armor? It may be helpful if we can determine the weakness of this armor before we leave. The patrol seemed very resistant to magic with the antimagic field and all. Perhaps the armor is particular vulnerable to cold or something. Fire and holy did not seem particularly damaging."
While perhaps not eager to set off, Dwight is ready. He can help as needed and offers to do so.
Ingrge Tuesday May 13th, 2008 10:46:41 PM
I guess I would suggest too that you start out at the shrine, but if you don't seem to find what you need, you might try contacting Arrak again. I have a feeling he too might have some insight to what the SoDs are up to.
Good luck
Draax Tuesday May 13th, 2008 11:07:50 PM
Draax almost starts to laugh when Ingrge mentions Arrak's name. All this talk about "unnamed friend" and his name comes up anyway.
Draax gets up to let everyone know that he is ready when they are. He could use another trip to the Catacombs too, but if the group is ready to depart, he can do without.
Jova Wednesday May 14th, 2008 1:18:14 AM
Jova personally doesnt see where ones day rest would do any harm, but the others seem bent on exploring right now.
Concluding the meeting - DM Marcin Wednesday May 14th, 2008 3:44:32 AM
The Emerald Dragons give last bits of advice and both groups of heroes bid farewell preparing to return to their respective duties. The newcomers are soon gone in the same way they came, leaving behind just a ripple in the fabric of magic.
With no more surprises to interrupt their preparations the Gray Knights are at last free to replenish their resources and spells. Frantic activity goes on all around them - no matter if the city is standing or in ruins there are mouths to feed and life has to go on. The sheer proportions of the disaster have initially invoked a seldom seen solidarity among the city folk, but as time passes and lives settle more or less into their old ways people start to think more about themselves and their own interests. The richer object to having commoners squat in their houses and their supplies being seized by the city guard. Overcrowded homes do nothing to relieve the anger among the poorer, either. Besides, almost everybody has a family member or a friend to mourn.
Around noon help starts coming in from the nearby countryside which has fared much better during the earthquake.
[It is about noon. The initiative is again in your hands. There is enough time to pray for spells and, if you wish to stay 8 hours, memorize them, too. Please state what business you still want to conduct in the city, when do you want to depart, to where, and by what means.]
Tratain d20+1=6 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 4:12:44 PM
Tratain prays for his spells and casts lesser restoration on Himself, Dwight and Arien.
He tells the others, "Let's let Arien and Jova regain thier spells before we leave so we will leave in around 8 hours. We will Windwalk until Dark and if we are not there by then continue on in the Morning. I want to head to the Library and see how it fared, I'll try and find whatever I can on the Legion and the Orb, whoever wants to come and help is more than welcome. Everyone else can stay here and rest. I also need to pick something up from the catacombs so get any last minute shopping done."
If the Library is open Tratain will ask anyone working there to help look up information on the Legion, and look for info on the Orb on his own. (I was thinking maybe they have some kind of service where Monks or Scholars could be paid to look up information?) Gather info 6 :(
Monthor Wednesday May 14th, 2008 8:45:19 PM
Monthor listens to Tratain,,, "Fine... works for me.. but lets make sur that staff is looked after before we leave. "
Dwight d20=13 ; d20+2=14 ; d20+7=25 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 10:04:42 PM
Dwight has his full complement of spells ready, so he accompanies Tratain to the library. During the walk there, Dwight inquires about the tree, "I noticed you have a unique tree on the property. My family back home are arborist, but I can't quite identify the tree. What is it?"
"Last time I went to this library, I researched some information on the Ishgara tree, fascinating tree. Supposedly can walk throughout the Culverwood and is rarely ever found. I was a bit surprised when the dragon said his chair was made out of the Ishgara wood. Some even believe it is sentient, but I'm not fully convince of that."
Once at the library, Dwight attempts to help find information on the Legion and the Orb. (gather information: 13) Dwight also looks at some geography and history related to western Culverwood. He is particularly interested in the area in which it is believed the center of the earthquakes was. (Can he infer anything from the map, geographically : knowledge: geography 14, knowledge:nature(earthquake): 25)
Arien Wednesday May 14th, 2008 11:48:37 PM
Arien, weary to the bone, finds a comfortable spot and enters Trance, rests and rememorizes spells.
Jova Thursday May 15th, 2008 3:57:21 AM
Jova sends a message through his link with Z to return to his side. Once he does so he finds a bed near Arien. He then instructs the hawk to guard the 2 while they get much needed rest.
Finally, some sleep - DM Marcin Thursday May 15th, 2008 4:49:42 AM
Despite the fact that it is their second day without rest some of the Knights find the energy to go on with their personal matters. Whatever supplies were waiting in the Catacombs are picked up. On the way there the party learns that somebody at the shop had the good sense to lend several Decanters of Endless Water to the city thus temporarily solving the problem of lack of clean water.
The library fared well - the damage to the building is minor and it looks that the main structure remains standing strong. There are indeed people there - mostly bards - whose only job is to know where to find odd bits of information. The problem however is that the actual information the party posesses is very limited: just the name of the "Legion", descriptions of creatures, and an armor to show. The matter of the orb looks more promising as the scholars vaguely recall having read similar legends. Something might be eventually dug up. These things take time, though, hours if not days, so no new information is available immediately. The library is happy to help free of charge - a leftover perk from the days when the group was working for the city, perhaps?
It is problematic to look up specific information about the area that seems to be the center of the seismic activity, too - not because this information is unavailable, but because using the leads the party has now - just the locations and times of the previous earthquakes - this area can't be pinpointed with any accuracy greater than a few hundred miles or so [see Duncan's Travel Agency in Woldipedia for general info on these lands].
The party has planned to rest for only 8 hours, but the exhaustion of the previous two days and a night - both physical and mental - is too much and it is already dark when the Knights wake up [fatigue status removed from those who still have it]. Spells are prepared in the lamplight and a light supper is eaten. The mansion has been pretty much turned into a temporary shelter for wounded and homeless and it seems that competent people are left here taking care of things.
Tratain prepares the group to Windwalk. The bodies of the Knights become transculent like the forms of ghosts and the group rises to the air in complete silence before speeding away to the West.
[Exactly where you would like to go and do you have a way to find your destination in the dark?]
Tratain Thursday May 15th, 2008 7:12:52 AM
Tratain leaves the library to meet up with the others. He hopes that the scholars there will be able to tell him something when the group returns.
Since it is much later than anticipated when the group is ready to leave Tratain says "Lets Travel towards the Emerald Kingdom for a few hours and then set up camp for the night. I don't want to travel all night, but I'd like to be far enough away so that if our orb decides to spit out more demons people in the city aren't getting caught in the battle."
The group flies towards the Emerald Kingdom for 3 or 4 hours and then finds a quiet place to camp.
VedikCurrent Spells d20+29=41 ; Thursday May 15th, 2008 7:48:49 AM
Vedik nods, and makes ready to travel. After his prayers, he has spent the day working both with the city and on his own. He takes the time to enhance his armor with Woldsblood, not wanting to be caught unawares. He takes all the things he is working on, and the crafting materials with him, storing it in his haversack, or in the portable hole if need be. He also takes care of one or two private things.
OOC: Active Effects: Mind Blank, Magic Vestment x2, Delay Poison-extended Draw 4 drops of Woldsblood: DC 30, passed. Magic Vestment on Armor and Shield, Store 2 drops.
Tratain Thursday May 15th, 2008 4:59:04 PM
Before the group leaves for the Emerald Kingdom Tratain casts Detect Magic and attempts to see if the Armor left behind by the Legion scout has any Magical Properties.
OOCHeh, kept forgetting to do that, and along with the Armor were the weapons the scout used left behind as well? Or just the Armor, or perhaps built into the gauntlets?
Tratain (Again) Thursday May 15th, 2008 5:02:55 PM
Tratain also gives a Platnum Ring to Jova, Arien, Dwight, and Monthor saying "These rings are a focus for a spell that will transfer half of the damage inflicted by an attack to me, you need to wear it in order for the Magic to work."
VedikCurrent Spells Thursday May 15th, 2008 5:09:50 PM
Being reminded by Tratain, Vedik passes out another ring to Monthor, one to Draax, and one to Jova
Draax Thursday May 15th, 2008 8:58:57 PM
Draax gets ready to depart as he take the ring from Vedik and nods his head in a gesture of thanks.
Dwight Thursday May 15th, 2008 9:07:52 PM
Dwight thanks Tratain for the ring. For now, he puts it in his pocket, as he currently is wearing several rings.
OOC: Does this work the first time I am hit, or must I activate it? What is it called and I'll look it up?
[If I suspect right that it is the focus of Shield Other spell then it won't count against the limit of magic rings you are wearing. M.]
Jova Friday May 16th, 2008 3:27:53 AM
Jovaalso accepts the proffered ring, not quite understanding the use. After the windwalk spell had been cast, and the Knights were back on firm land, Jova casts a spell. After several minutes a steed appears out of nothingness. The group had seen him do this before, but the horse itself looked different. Long legs ending in smoky hooves, the mane and tail smoky as well. Not smoky like real smoke, rather as though not there. The horse was lean, and athletic. The eyes had changed. Much fiercer, much more attentive.
"We lost Lumi and Horvis our resident scouts, we should decide on a different guard for the evening. Since I rested all day, I can take the first watch if necessary."
Camping in the forest - DM Marcin Friday May 16th, 2008 5:09:16 AM
Tratain's examination of the armor prior to departure reveals that the blades are part of the gauntlets. There are several openings in the wirst guards - probably where the quills came from - but no trace of a launching mechanism is found. Maybe the poisoned quills were shot out by the body of the creature itself?
The armor plates are not enchanted, but the blades on both gauntlets radiate strong necromantic magic.
The group flies for a few hours to put some distance between themselves and the city. The night is dark, but the Knights are relatively certain that they have cleared the largest Plateau. The forests underneath offer no landmarks to navigate by and no lights betray any settlements, so the group eventually settles down for a night on a small glade in the forest. Various small tasks are accomplished and the group settles down for sleep.
The night and small hours pass uneventfully. Watches change. The black forest is silent. Eventually the sun rises and the group breakfasts. Sleep is washed out of the eyes by the cold water of a nearby pool. Prayers are said. Spells are prepared. The party has finally returned to normal day/night activity cycle.
The daylight will hopefully allow for better navigation.
[If you decide to continue Windwalking please state your destination and say if you are using any special means to find it. If you just want to navigate by the landmarks the guide(s) need to roll Survival and/or Knowledge:Geography.]
Arien Friday May 16th, 2008 5:11:26 AM
Arien nods his thanks to Tratain and wraps the ring in a silk cloth and stows it in a pocket for now.
Tratain (Again) Friday May 16th, 2008 9:12:29 AM
Around the camp that night Tratain says "The rings Vedik and I gave you are the Focus for the shield other spell. Don't worry, wearing them won't interfere with you other magic rings. When Vedik or I cast the spell half of the damage the attack would have caused is transfered to us. You have to be wearing the ring for it to work though, so put them on." he finishes with a laugh.
He continues "Hey Arien, can you identify the blades on that armor? Ii might tell us a little more about the Legion, maybe those Bands of Binding as well, so we can use them in a pinch if we need to. As for how we get to the shrine, I really only know the basic layout of the Emerald Kingdom. Unless someone has a better idea we can head to the southern part of the kingdom, I think theres a town near the middle of the border forts, and that the capital city is north of it. At the capital city I can use an extended find the path spell to lead us to the shrine."
He tells Dwight "I believe I completely forgot to answer the question you asked me on the way to the library. We don't really know what type of tree it is. It appeared there in our yard after the awakening of the Fae King. We had just returned from visiting Queen Maab to find out information about him and the next morning the Tree was there, fully grown. We don't know how it got there, what type of tree it is or really anything about it."
Monthor Hit Points:151 AC30 d20+3=23 ; Saturday May 17th, 2008 10:10:27 AM
Skipping around a bit...
Monthor accepts Tratain's ring.
" Ah, for me??? But me doesn't have anything for youz Tratain.. Ye shouldn't have... "
Monthor uses Appraise to check out the value of the ring...( natural 20 =23)
And Monthor puts the ring on.
Monthor then agrees with Tratain's suggestion regarding the trip to the southern part of the kingdom. " Me hopes that this town has a decent tavern... me's getting parched alreadies.... "
Draax Sunday May 18th, 2008 3:14:05 PM
Before the group departs, Draax sees to Hmary and the children. He tells her, "Do not worry about fixing the place until the mystery of these earthquakes are found and stopped. Let as many people stay here as you deem fit, but let them know that it is only temporary until the city is somewhat restored and other accommodation can be arranged. The lab should stay locked and off limits, I do not want someone blowing themselves up. If you need to get things repaired or other resources before we return; go ahead and do it and we will take care of any balances when we return."
Once the house sitter is taken care of, Draax checks his inventory and then is ready to depart.
Dwight Sunday May 18th, 2008 11:03:38 PM
To Tratain, "Interesting. I'll have to take a much closer look at the tree when we return. Perhaps I could send a branch or leaf to me pa. He has been an arborist in the Valley for a very long time, took the business over from his pa. Between the two, they seem to know almost everything about trees."
----
Otherwise Dwight takes his shift at watch, and is ready in the morning to depart as others see fit.
"What will we do if the prisoner refuses to give us any information? Surely if he was forth giving, the Emerald Dragons would have known more." Dwight begins to wonder what information can be gleamed from a captured, tortured soul.
Jova Monday May 19th, 2008 2:04:07 AM
Jova has little to say.
"Dwight we could always bring your Da to the tree. Just a thought." Jova then spends some quality time in the saddle.
Morning - DM Marcin Monday May 19th, 2008 6:19:40 AM
As the brisk morning comes it finds the Gray Knights already up and getting ready to continue on. Draax reflects a bit about the last instructions he gave to Hmary before leaving the Plateau City. Monthor estimates that the platinium ring is worth about 50 gp.
The Knights toss around various ideas about the destination of today's journey. It is time to make a decision and get underway [and I still would like to see a Survival or Knowledge:Geography roll from the guide].
Tratain d20=13 ; Monday May 19th, 2008 7:08:21 AM
Tratain says "Well lets be off, I'll cast Windwalk on us again and head off, hopefully we won't get too lost."
Knowledge Geography - 13, unless someone in the party can do better.
Monthor Hit Points:151 AC30 d20+3=20 ; d20+1=14 ; Monday May 19th, 2008 2:52:17 PM
" Agreed. Let's get one with it already!! "
Geography 20 Survival 14
Tratain Monday May 19th, 2008 7:39:57 PM
List of Spells and Buffs:
Buff Spells cast every day: Magic Vestment on Tratain's Shield and Armor Greater Magic Weapon(+4) Tratain - Warhammer Monthor - Axe Dwight - 50 Arrows of his choice Draax - Longbow
Extended Greater Magic Weapon alternating days on Tratain's Cold Iron Warhammer and Silvered Warhammer.
VedikCurrent Spells d20+29=36 ; Monday May 19th, 2008 9:56:21 PM
Vedik casts his normal morning spells, draws woldsblood to enhance his armor, placing the two extra drops in his storage container, and prepares to move out.
Dwight d20+2=17 ; Monday May 19th, 2008 11:15:42 PM
Dwight flies/walks with the rest. He offers what limited advice he has on travelling and paths (geography: 17)
During the trip, "I'm sure he would love to see the tree in its true form, rather than just parts. However, he is unlikely to actually travel that distance. Perhaps if teleported to the tree and back, but he says he is too old for that bouncy buggie ride or the long walk."
Jova Tuesday May 20th, 2008 12:54:51 AM
"That was what I was thinking. Does he have the ability to talk to terees? Do you, or he know of anyone. We can take kare of that after we figure out the quake thing. And get rid of the orb." He says this to Dwight.
Entering Emerald Kingdom - DM Marcin Tuesday May 20th, 2008 6:47:19 AM
The campfire is extingushed and the group gets ready to resume their journey. Windwalking once again, the Knights quickly cover the rest of the distance separating them from Culverwood and soon find themselves flying over the endless sea of green. These are the parts of the forest known as the Tamed Lands - the part of the Culverwood that accepted humans and elves and other civilized beings and allowed them to thrive and build inside it - for a time. The feeling is somewhat different from the one experienced long ago when the party was flying over deep Culverwood - the land is teeming with life and welcomes the newcomers instead of rejecting them as intruders. Bird song is almost a constant companion of the journey. The only signs of civilization that can be seen through the dense canopy of the trees are occasional whisps of smoke from camps and remote cottages.
Monthor is able to reliably lead the party in the westernly direction, eventually settling for following the river Lygn which is the only major landmark of the eastern Emerald Kingdom. Even though the running water can't be seen all the time - sometimes the entire river is hidden under the branches of ancient trees - it can always be heard, and so the Gray Knights manage to quickly advance in the direction of the heart of the Emerald Kingdom.
[Folks, in case I didn't say that clearly enough: I really don't know where you want to go! You mentioned the capital of the kingdom - Karri. You also mentioned some border town between forts that can be either Waypoint or Kouri. Could you please state clearly where you want to travel to? Here is the map of the Emerald Kingdom.]
Tratain Tuesday May 20th, 2008 8:49:22 AM
Tratain directs the group first to Waypoint, then North to the Capital City of Karri. Then he will Memorize a Find the Path spell to hopefully travel from there all the way to the Shrine the group is looking for.
OOC: Opps, sorry Marcin. I figured that since I don't think anyone in the group has actually been to the Emerald Kingdom before we wouldn't be able to navigate straight to the shrine. That seems like the best route, I was mostly looking at the map you linked and this map to figure the easiest route to follow.
Monthor Hit Points:151 AC30 Tuesday May 20th, 2008 10:07:55 PM
Monthor continues to follow Tratain.
Dwight Tuesday May 20th, 2008 10:36:48 PM
Dwight is content to look upon the trees, surely the Ishgara is down there somewhere.
Draax Wednesday May 21st, 2008 12:34:04 AM
Draax continues to travel with the group as he takes in the sites.
LOG ON