Last Words [DM Jeff] d10=7 ; Friday June 5th, 2009 3:17:30 AM
Dwight is the only one who seems to be looking around, but he doesn't seem to see anything. Whether that is a testament to his keen eyes or simply a lack of any observers is up for the dwarf to decide. Neither him nor Plyf are able to pick up any special undertones from Vran.
"Destroy my companions? One of the strongest forces the Sons of Dread had ever arranged? No. I did not destroy them. They are, as far as I know, still working. And I am, as far as they know, still working as well."
"But," he points to Vedik, "You're right. This conversation is best done elsewhere. And saved for another time. There was a very brief window where I could have sent you to eliminate the Sons of Dread leadership. The Deathsquad following me... Needless to say, my stupidity is going to have consequences." He points a finger at the coin on the ground and a bolt of pure white hits it. [Spellcraft Check DC 30: Highlight to display spoiler: {Clearly not a spell any of you have seen before. It clearly contains elements of Transmutation, almost like a Disintegrate, but is certainly much more powerful.}. The coin looks unchanged, but Vran seems less worried about it. Still, he is sure not to touch it at all. It floats from the ground into a pouch on his belt.
"That was two months of preparation... But such is the way of life. I will likely no longer be able to hide if that Deathsquad returns home. Everything changes. While you were fighting, I was praying and I saw a distinct vision of a moon rising and falling. Providing I've got the meaning right, we've got about a month before... Well, whatever happens. Thirty days. If you need me before then, simply go up to that fountain and say my name. There is a very specific Sending attached to it. I will go now, but before I do I have one final thing to say. Those orbs you carry... I can sense their very presence as we speak. I warn you that the longer you hold one, the more you are bound to the magic. Touch them together and they will simply turn into black orbs..."
Providing the Gray Knights do not attempt to stop him, Vran gives a curt bow and a giant flash of white covers the sky and the Old Man is gone... [Spellcraft Check DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {Teleport} The Knights are alone in the alleyway. And the moment he disappears, people start returning to the area. Whether it was magic or his simply his presence, whatever was keeping everyone away from the street is gone now.
What happens with the rest of the evening, and the rest of the month so-it-seems, is up to the Gray Knights.
Gear
From Second Underwater Battle: Large Trident +2 Large Trident +2 Large Trident +2 Protection +4 Rod of Enemy Detection Rod of Negation Journal non magical worth 2700 [Concerning the relationship of oysters to whales]
From Eel Man Parlay: Staff of Power +1 Chain Shirt [Moderate Fortification] [Improved Electric and Acid resistance]
Battle in the Streets: +3 Mithril Half-Plate Amulet of Natural Armor +1 +1 Chaotic Light Pick
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) d20+3=16 d20+3=5 Friday June 5th, 2009 11:45:14 AM That's just great! Plyf thinks to herself as the group moves out of the street to some other location. She starts going through her mind all the questions she wants to ask this exscumbag. Can one be an exscumbag? Once a scum bag always a scum bag daddy always said, but a scum bag that now worships death? I tyhink I would feel a bit better if he had changed over to Alemi or Pantheon. Nope, it's still a possible trap. Yea, right, stay on your toes and keep asking the questions.
"So tell us Vran, is it possible once word gets back you are a defector, your old group will come hunting you? Can you tell us what goes into making a Sons of Dread Death Squad? Any special properties they share like Ga'alian Quads?
Also, what mission were you on that was so important that they would break up a squad from their leader?"
Additional Loot [DM Jeff] Saturday June 6th, 2009 3:53:58 AM
Large Trident +2 Electric Large Trident +2 Electric 36 gemstones [1,500 gp each] 3 necklaces of corral and pearl [7,500 gp each] 5 smooth stone rings of onyx with melted inlaid sapphire stone [5,000 gp each]
[OOC: Thanks Joe for keeping Dan and I honest :D]
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 d20+6=25 ; d20+5=12 ; Sunday June 7th, 2009 5:47:23 PM
Dwight seeing the man ready to depart again, moves to stop him (by proximity and verbal canter only) not satisfied with anything that has actually been said. "Vran, I want to believe your story, but you have said so little. You mention the orbs, and say they will turn black if touched, but make no remark as to whether that de-activates them or not. You mention Death Squads not knowing about your presence but the appearance of one such squad seems a bit suspicious."
"You appeared here tonight, to tell us or help us in some way. However, the only thing that seems to have happened was you added a particular group to our long list of enemies. Certainly, before you leave you could give something of substance, something to increase the trust between us that you seem to have wanted or have been told to seek by the "Eye".
sense motive: 25 diplomacy: 12
TratainCurrent Spells Sunday June 7th, 2009 6:17:00 PM
Tratain waits and listens to Vran's answers to Dwights Questions, curious as well about what more the man can offer.
Vedik AC 25 (13 touch) HP 214/214 Character SheetCurrent Spells Monday June 8th, 2009 8:44:28 AM
Vedik listens for the answers, stroking his beard. When all the groups questions have been answered, he simply says "In a month then."
He then retires for the evening, and prepares for the mornings activities.
OOC: Not sure if you wanted the months worth of activities, but here you go: Visit Catacombs Become Wizard Join Star Mages Guild Craft for about 25 days.
The Enemy of My Enemy... [DM Jeff] Monday June 8th, 2009 2:26:49 PM
Vran, realizing that the group does not want to let him leave yet, makes no effort to leave. "Deathsquads can be absolutely anything. The only constant is these coins. They are bound to us and they bind us to the Sons of Dread. The moment it leaves your person, whether you are dead or alive, certain commanders are alerted. Each coin has its own effects that activate when that happens. None of them are pleasant and all of them will eventually dehabilitate the owner, to the point where the Sons of Dread can easily come... collect. Which is why I still carry my coin. As long as I still have it, there is a chance I can claim to still be working. If that squad tells enough about me, it might remind someone of me. And then they'll send someone to come find me. Which is why I should be out of the city soon. Even if I let them capture me willingly, there's a chance other people could get involved. And there's enough innocent blood on these hands." He looks at the goo-pile left on the ground and shakes his head.
"This Deathsquad appearing is no coincidence. I stole from them the key required to teleport to the Sons of Dread meeting. They are part of an ongoing power struggle within the Sons of Dread. Some of the leadership is not content to share power and they're using the Deathsquads to eliminate their competition. As for the orbs you carry, they are dangerous, that you know. The longer you carry them, the more likely you are to be corrupted by them. And the easier it will be for your enemies to find them. Their magic will be entirely undone if you touch them together. As far as I know, that will be enough to prevent anyone from ever fixing them."
As far as Dwight can tell, Vran speaks as truthfully as he knows.
"If you will recall, I have told you everything about myself by choice. What else would you like of me? This coin makes me immune to nearly all forms of divination, so you cannot verify my truth by magical means. As for my final mission, I do not know much about you Gray Knights, but I doubt you follow the politics of Plateau City. Not enough to know some man by the name of Lord Arrak. I was sent to find him, interrogate him, and then kill him. This task was not supposed to be easy, which is why I was sent to get close to the man. It seems he presented himself as a great danger to the Sons of Dread. And it is my hope that he remains that great danger to them..."
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Tuesday June 9th, 2009 2:43:06 AM
Plyf wonders now why their host had to rush off like he had, but does not mention anything out loud, waiting for some response from those more involved with the Dread then she.
TratainCurrent Spells Tuesday June 9th, 2009 5:47:02 AM
Tratain listens to what Vran has to say. Before the man leaves he says "So in a Month then? THere is nothing we can do before then to stop them?"
WHen Vran leaves Tratain says "Tomorrow we can take the Orbs to the Cave and destroy them there. It seemed safe enough to do it there. We will also Identify all of the items we have aquired so we can do some shopping and then relax for a while before we go out and stomp the Sons of Dread. We will also have time to fill in the newer members on what our history with them is and get to know the two of you a little better."
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Tuesday June 9th, 2009 9:07:52 AM
Dwight nods at Vran, semi-satisfied with his responses and while they seem to ring true he cannot convince himself to totally believe the man.
"I'll be happy by lunch tomorrow then," as Tratain sets a time to deal with the orbs. "Perhaps it may be as simple and non-destructive as he says"
Vedik AC 25 (13 touch) HP 214/214 Character SheetCurrent Spells Tuesday June 9th, 2009 11:01:19 AM
Vedik nods politely, but remains quiet until the man leaves. Once he is gone, Vedik says "We have had the greatest sages in Plateau city tell us the orbs will explode when they come in contact with one another. Perhaps this man is wrong, perhaps he knows more than the sages do, or perhaps he means to trick us. In any event, I see no reason to change our plans. Explode the orbs in the cave, to be safe, and meet with him in a month."
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Tuesday June 9th, 2009 12:01:41 PM
Monthor agrees with Tratain's suggestion. The burley dwarf will accompany Tratain to the cave tomorrow to destroy the orbs.
A Day of Rest [DM Jeff] Wednesday June 10th, 2009 12:28:01 AM
[Was waiting on Echlhin... Guess no luck.]
With no further pressings to stay, Vran gives a small bow to the Knights. In response to Tratain's final question, "I wish I give you more information, but since your... attack, the Sons of Dread have been constantly moving. Rumours say they're planning on settling down somewhere, but where that is... I don't know. Yet." He leaves the Knights with that, teleporting away.
And with that, the Gray Knights are left on their own. They makes plans for the next few days and all get rooms at the Blue Ale Tavern [OOC: I presume, I don't know if any of you have any other places to stay in the city].
The next morning, most have plans. Vedik prepares for his transformation. Tratain and Monthor ready the orbs for destruction. And everyone prepares to divide the loot and make a quick trip to the Catacombs...
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday June 10th, 2009 8:36:25 PM
Tratain tells the Others "When Vedik is ready to transport us we'll go to the cave. I don't know if the Orbs when touched together simply become lifeless or if they'll explode so I can stoneshape a slide if you will into the ground to give us a few seconds to teleport out. After a Minute or so we'll return to see what happened. The the rest of the Month or so we have for shopping and Training and getting to know the newer members a little better."
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Wednesday June 10th, 2009 8:41:39 PM
Monthor will follow Tratain and stay with him until the Orbs are delt with. Following this, he will go to the Catacombs to make some purchases. Following this, he will find himself a nice "quiet" drinking establishment in the Plateau and party hardy until called back to work by the others. Have a nice month ladies.
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Thursday June 11th, 2009 12:15:43 AM
Plyf stays nearby and available, even until they go to the Catacombs.
This is really out of her nature. before she met the Knights, she would have run home to visit her parents and taken in a fine family meal. Now though, she wants to lead no one, or nothing to those she loves and she hopes, she isn't recognized by some of her past clients or rivals.
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Thursday June 11th, 2009 8:09:02 AM
Dwight nods to Tratain and attempts to get a good nights rest in case the cave plan is not as smooth as described. He too needs to visit the catacombs and write to his father, which he hasn't done in months.
Vedik AC 25 (13 touch) HP 214/214 Character SheetCurrent Spells Thursday June 11th, 2009 8:43:15 AM
Vedik visits the catacombs in the evening, to acquire the things he will need for his transformation.
In the morning Vedik prays for his spells. Bracing himself, he calls upon Alemi's power of crafting and creation not to work metal or stone this time, but flesh and spirit and self.
If he's able, he will prepare spells and cast the teleport without error spells needed to bring the group to the cave, away for a minute, back to the cave, and then ultimately home.
OOC: Cast Miracle for IG cover for character surgery. If I'm able to prep spells after that, will cast the teleports needed to get everyone to the cave and back.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Thursday June 11th, 2009 8:46:13 AM
Having no need to visit the catacombs, Echlhin spends some time the the treant, seeing if there is anything he can do to assist the ancient creature, listening to his words of wisdom, and otherwise enjoying the time.
In the morning he ventures with the group to see to the orbs.
Posting for Echlhin, as hes on vacation -- Troy
An Affair with Orbs [DM Jeff] Thursday June 11th, 2009 3:20:37 PM
[OOC: No worries, Joe. Didn't know you were on vacation.]
Of all the Knights, Vedik's plans may be the most drastic. The Fixer prays to Alemi for a life-altering miracle and the dwarf is himself getting exactly what he wished for. The physical changes are almost non-existance, but Vedik finds his entire life up until this point flashing through his mind. Each memory collapsing onto the next to the point where the flood of thoughts seems too much to take. Vedik realizes that every action in his life has been a step towards his life as a Fixer. This Miracle is simply the next step on that path... A warm golden glow covers Vedik and, without a bright flash or a brilliant explosion, Vedik the Cleric becomes Vedik the Wizard.
Plyf, Monthor, Tratain, Dwight, and Echlhin all await on Vedik's teleportation to the cave. The newly annointed wizard does exactly that and the Gray Knights find themselves deep in a cave, far away from civilization.
[OOC: I think this is the plan you worked out]
Tratain stoneshapes a slide down which the Orbs can be dropped once they are touched. Monthor cautiously holds them, awaiting on go-word from Vedik. The wizard, while still learning about his new powers, readies another teleport for the very moment that the Orbs are touched today.
Monthor holds the Orb together over the slide Tratain created and just before they touch, an intense wave of hatred, angry and loathing flow though the dwarf. The Orbs connect, they leave Monthor's hands, and before the Knights are able to determine what has happened, Vedik has teleported them all back to Plateau City.
When the Knights return to the cave, they expect the worst. Sages had told them the Orbs could have wrecked havok. But it seems the Old Man spoke the truth. The cave is still a proper cave. And with a bit of searching, the Gray Knights find the two Orbs: each an unnatural pitch black and not responding to any sort of magical detections.
The story of the Orbs (or at least the story of these Orbs) appears to be over...
TratainCurrent Spells Thursday June 11th, 2009 7:38:29 PM
After the Group returns after a few moments to the cave to make sure the orbs were properly destroyed Tratain tells the others "Looks like we have some free time now."
After everything is settled Tratain heads to the Catacombs for some purchases and then spends time helping out at the various temples.
[DM Jeff] Thursday June 11th, 2009 8:48:19 PM
For anyone who needs my email (questions, concerns, and Catacombs transactions): jeffcollinz@gmail.com
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Thursday June 11th, 2009 9:05:18 PM
Monthor shakes his head at the whole "Orb" event.
" Sweet!!! What a rush that was!!!"
" Okee girley's lets go spend some loot!"
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Friday June 12th, 2009 8:23:58 AM
Once the group returns to see the 'destroyed' orbs, Dwight takes a close look at them, detecting to see if any magic resides in them. Regardless of the magic, Dwight adds, "I think, just in case, these orbs still ought to be separated by distance. Perhaps one buried deep into the earth here, and another dropped into a volcano or something. Just to be sure mind you."
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Friday June 12th, 2009 8:41:52 AM
Vedik sighs as the deed is done. "I'd like to keep one close, remind me that sometimes we have to do whats required."
Upon arriving back to their suites in Plateau City, he makes his way to the catacombs, and the Star Mages guild. He buys some things for his new path, and formally joins the guild.
He spends the rest of the month doing a more familiar activity: crafting.
The Gray Knights, Hard at Rest [DM Jeff] Saturday June 13th, 2009 12:33:01 PM
The Gray Knights decide to leave one of the Orbs in the cave, as a precaution against possible future uses. Vedik keeps the other one as a personal reminder of duty's weight. With the "slide" sealed up, the cave appears to be just another cave. One of them with the Knights and the other deep in the earth, that should be enough to satisfy Dwight's requests for distance.
And the Knights return to Plateau City to spend their well-earned loot. Catacombs, other general business, and some rest.
Tratain, ever devout, heads around to help at the various temples of Plateau. At each one, he finds a variation of this scene playing out: a foreigner, clearly not around Plateau City, who speaks with an odd accent is pestering one of the priests. "The End is coming! The Southern Migration was just the beginning. There is only one way to survive the True Migration and that is to embrace the endtimes!"
Echlhin goes to visit Big Acorn, who is in a rather grumpy mood. When pressed about it, Echlhin is able to discover that the ent is having some trouble with squirrels who don't seem to be showing him any respect at all.
Vedik visits the Star Mages, in an attempt to join the guild. When he arrives, he finds himself swarmed by dozens of eager mages. With all of them speaking at once, he is only able to make out snippets. "One of the Gray Knights!" "Great things from you, master Vedik!" "For someone of your stature, I'm sure we could waive some requirements and have you raised to Master Mage within the week." "Just what we need. More adventurer outsiders! Or do you forget what happened in the Hook?" "Won't be able to waive the fees though..." The cacophony of sound is nearly overwhelming. Clearly, the Star Mages are eager for access to a Gray Knight.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Monday June 15th, 2009 8:32:40 AM
Vedik shakes his head. "Thank ye, but no, I will wait the one year like everyone else must. A journeyman I am, for now. I may have some interesting perspectives on the nature of magical crafting for my thesis."
"Tell me more about the Hook though? I've been..away..for a few years."
He pays for a lifetime membership in coin.
TratainCurrent Spells Monday June 15th, 2009 5:45:25 PM
Tratain spends time over the Month reading his Tome and helping at the various temples and getting to know the newer party members.
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Monday June 15th, 2009 9:27:53 PM
Dwight makes to the Catacombs, then plans to check topics in the WLA again. Hopefully this time gaining a better idea of what is going on in the Wold. He will also go to poor areas each day and donate the blessing of food and drink to them. Aside from these short breaks, his main time will be spent crafting a new bow.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet [link href="http://docs.google.com/View?id=dgp8ptwz_4ff58n9fc"] Tuesday June 16th, 2009 6:58:33 AM
After listening to Big Acorn, he does what little he can with the squirrels and then heads off to stop by the local WLA.
There he wishes to speak with someone in an official capacity in regards to his status with the organization.
The Gray Knights, Hard at Rest [DM Jeff] Tuesday June 16th, 2009 1:58:18 PM
The Star Mages all go silent when Vedik starts asking about the Hook. Finally, one ends up piping up very quietly. "Hook City... It was where we had our Star Tower on the Southern Continent. And some idiotic adventurers decided they were fed up with our efforts to stabilize the region. They blew it up!"
A gnomish man in a very fine suit approaches Vedik, quietly taking his 1,500 gold for a membership and leaving him with a very formal looking receipt and whispering the dwarf's name into a crystal ball. "Vedik Taluth. Officially a Star Mage. Appointed to the rank of Journeyman with a full acknowledgment of that his abilities far surpass the rank."
Tratain has gets to know the newest Knights of the group.
Big Acorn thanks Echlhin for his effort, but as he leaves, out of the corner of his eye he notices the squirrels rushing back to the tree.
Dwight's offering to the poor puts him in the highest possible light. As the month goes by, he finds himself followed around by children eager to be around "Dwight the Kind".
Dwight and Echlhin both visit the WLA. "Ahh yes. two of our most promising Guardsman..." The two Gray Knights are approached by Lars Tokasis, the founder of the League. He appears to busy, on his way somewhere else, but he takes a moment to grin at the Knights. "Keep up the good works and I'm sure there's an Officer appointment for you two in the very near future." He winks and is on his way before they can respond.
Quickly behind him is a rather self-important looking man. He nods at Dwight appreciatively, but when his gaze stops at Echlhin. "Of course, the Commander misspoke with regards to you..." He takes a moment and Echlhin gets the feeling he is being sized up. "Journeyman? Yes. He certainly misspoke. Unless you're here to be raised to Guardsman?"
Other than that chance encounter, Dwight and Echlhin find most of the League is busy dealing with refugees from the Southern Continent. The Great Migration in the South led to a small evacuation, although many are Star Mages being dealt with by that Guild, some are WLA Journeymen and Guardsman. But there are rumours.
With just a few loose ends to tie up, the Knights have just a few more days before Vran's promised return. Any last details they want to deal with before then?
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Tuesday June 16th, 2009 7:06:53 PM
Seeing that the WLA is rather busy, Echlhin leaves his matter for a better time. With that, he goes to begin crafting an item with what remaining days are available.
DM To Tratain Tuesday June 16th, 2009 9:26:37 PM
what is this, please? Lesser Artifact, Scroll of Find Portal and Open Portal that Never Fade
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Wednesday June 17th, 2009 4:39:02 PM
Monthor gleefully introduces the other Knights to Shirley, his new axe. Monthor, in his updated shinny, electric blue armor, uses his new helm of teleportation to travel back and forth to his family's Dirt City tavern. There he spends some quality time with his Momma and updates his Paw on his many adventures.
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday June 17th, 2009 5:37:35 PM
Tratain hangs around town and helps where he can waiting for the meeting with Vran.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Thursday June 18th, 2009 8:05:01 AM
Vedik continues to do has he has done, crafting, restoring the groups wands with his fixers art, and otherwise remaining focused on the tasks ahead.
He also tries out some of his new spells.
Standard Daily Buffs: Magic Vestment on Shield and Tunic. Contingency: When an enemy begins to cast Disjunction, Dimension Door 1000 feet straight up.
Storm Clouds Gather [DM Jeff] Thursday June 18th, 2009 10:37:57 AM
[Sorry about the missed post. I got slammed this week.]
The Gray Knights all finish up their month in Plateau City. Some of them doing crafting. Some of them visiting, doing what they can to help. But as the 30th day approaches, there is a sense of foreboding. Vran had said he would be a month and, which meant the Knights had a month before being called to complete their service to Gargul. It was not the easiest of thougts.
Finally, on the 30th day since Vran's departure from the city, the Knights find themselves wondering how they will encounter the man. As the day stretches out, clouds start to cover the sky. What had been a month of calm and warmth and sun was, in a matter of hours, turning into a storm. By nightfall, water flows down the streets. Rain and wind whip through the city. As the final hours of the 30th day close together, the Knights find themselves waiting in a tavern: adventurer-style.
After enough time has happened for doubts to be let in, the door flings open and a brilliant flash of white light illuminates everything outside of the tavern. In walks a man, clad completely in a full suit of black armor. Not a speck of skin can be seen until he pulls off his helmet and there, as strange as it looks, is the old man from last month. His eyes look sunken and almost hollowed out; his skin is stretched tighter against his bones; and most of all, he looks scared.
But none of that enters his voice. "The Gray Knights wait for an old man. Well, here I am. Are you all ready to go?" He asks, as if the matter were not of life and death. As if the Gray Knights were not seeking out the Sons of Dread a group whom they did not exactly succeed against in their last encounter. And as if finding them was as simple as snapping one's fingers.
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Thursday June 18th, 2009 1:31:50 PM
Monthor taps his axe up against his gauntlet.
" Let's GET HER DONE!!! "
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) d20+8=14 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+14=32 ; d20+7=18 ; d20+7=27 ; d20+13=25 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+10=30 ; Thursday June 18th, 2009 7:55:39 PM
Besides visiting the catacombs, Plyf just hangs out and relaxes. Visiting all the taverns she can, she attempts to play the act of a bard, but secretly, she searches for whispers of the Dread. Those lone people in the corner who's lips she reads when they speak of those that the Knight seek. Using whatever devices are necessary, without giving away who she is.
Disguise: 14 (She is a low level bard anyway, so who would know her?) Diplomacy: 31 Gather Information: 32 Knowledge local: 18 Listen :27 (Natural 20) Perform: 25 Sense Motive: 23 Spot: 30 (Natural 20) whoa
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Thursday June 18th, 2009 11:01:57 PM
"Given that you may know where we are going and what tasks we are to perform, I kindly request some information or at least advice as to what we are about face before I can answer if I am ready," Echlhin says to the old man.
TratainCurrent Spells Friday June 19th, 2009 9:11:13 AM
When the old man enters and asks the Knights to come with him Tratain gets his things together for the Trip. He says "I too would like to know a little more about where we are going and who will be there. In our last encounter with the Son's not enough information cost us. I would like to avoid that again."
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Friday June 19th, 2009 9:22:03 AM
Vedik stands as the old man enters. He has seen this look before.
"Let us travel, after our questions are answered. Though perhaps we should speak not so publicly."
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Friday June 19th, 2009 1:39:58 PM
ooc> Could we get a summary of long term buffs from the buffers to the buffees please?
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Friday June 19th, 2009 2:38:39 PM
Dwight asks to borrow some of Tratain beads of Karma one night during their month. Then Dwight heads outside the city, finds a nice grove with trees, bushes, flowers and a good view of the stars, even a stream nearby would be nice. There he sets a small fire and retrieves his cauldron. Here, with the future in mind he sets the task of improving himself for combat. (Cast: Surrender Self: Making Divine Favor Permanent)
----- Over the remaining days Dwight remains quiet, giving most responses in simple nods and he puts his attention to his craft and becomes accustomed to his slight internal change. While a bit embarrasing, he feels it will be worth it in the end.
---------------- Dwight grabs his new bow, testing its weight and looks forward and fears its first use. Surely it was made with every attention to detail, but it's always the first time in battle where a weapon shows it true worth and ability.
"I agreesss, with my friendsss. Anssswersss would be nise before we fight for out livesss again." The extra sounds are not truly intentional, but somewhat unavoidable as Dwight now seems to have a forked tongue.
OOC: Still need to finalize character sheet with purchases and Divine Favor. Should all be good by Monday. Hopefully, the new, improved, much poorer version of Dwight can help kick some butt now....or at least make them feel like they are sitting on a bunch of painfully sharp needles.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Friday June 19th, 2009 2:51:06 PM
..Previously on Grey Knights Morning Routine...
Vedik activates his new shiny headband, and calls upon Alemi to draw forth woldsblood to protect the Knights for the days activities.
OOC: Morning buff routine for Grey Knights: Activate auto 20 from headband, draw 10 drops. Use 8 on Knights for Magic Vestment for group, then store 2 in personal woldsblood container.
A Southern Vacation? [DM Jeff] Friday June 19th, 2009 9:23:29 PM
[My iPhone has been bouncing emails back so I don't know if you've gotten them. But everyone who Catacombs emailed me is approved for immediate use]
Some of the Knights are gung-ho about going with Vran, but others have questions for the mysterious man. Vedik suggests moving to a place more private and Vran nods his head, leading the Knights to a room at the back of the Blue Ale. "The Sons of Dread have fled. After your engagement with them, they hoped to avoid your notice. From what I've been told, they decided that you presented quite the problem." He nods appreciatively at the group. "You've got them running scared. To the Southern Continent, apparently..." Once he is sure the Knights know what he's referring to, he continues.
"Recently there was some major event in the South. Ga'al attempted to gain momentum there. The specifics, I'm not sure about, but it appears that the Gods of Testing are no longer content to allow the Immortal Powers to rule over the land. The details are vague, but apparently there are a people on the Southern Continent who follow one of the long-dead Gods. And Marteaus has the Sons trying to find them so that he can manipulate them into following him."
"This is the only lead I have. I have no direct portal to The Dread this time. Just the knowledge that every significant member of the Sons has relocated to somewhere on the Southern Continent. It is there you will find your fight. It could be a long time before I am given the new location of Castle Dread, so it may be best for you to make the Sons come to you. Locate the Lost people, discover why the Gods cannot see them, and find a way to prevent Marteaus from gaining what could be the largest group of unaligned followers in the entire Wold..." He laughs to himself. "In a single blow, you'll gather the full attention of Marteaus and the Sons of Dread. If that doesn't inspire The Dread himself to try and destroy you, nothing will."
TratainCurrent Spells Sunday June 21st, 2009 8:38:40 PM
Tratain says "Do you have any Idea on where we should start our search? I don't think any of us have ever been to the Southern Continent before."
After a moment he also says "You don't look well, has something happened to you since we last spoke? Do you need healing?"
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Sunday June 21st, 2009 9:11:10 PM
"... I was wondering the same thing" Echlhin says, agreeing with Tratain about the old man's current appearance.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet d20+12=21 ; Monday June 22nd, 2009 8:06:26 AM
Vedik chuckles slightly at the 'running scared' comment. "Twas luck, nothing more, that we are alive here today."
"If we introduce them to Gargul, we will complete the other task set before us." the old dwarf strokes his short beard. "This chance is too great to pass up, despite the risks." He thinks for a moment, trying to recall what he can of the southern continent.
OOC: Knowledge Geography on the Southern Continent: 21
Buffs Magic Vestment on Shield and Tunic (CL 20, 20 hours, +5 bonus) Contingency: When an enemy begins to cast Disjunction, Dimension Door 1000 feet straight up.
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Monday June 22nd, 2009 10:38:49 AM
Plyf just strokes the strings of her summoned harp. She listens carefully to the words of the others, but does not add much worth while, except an occassional verse to the song she is playing and this question.
"With all those people down there, what is the name of the major city of the area we need to go to, on this Southern Continent?"
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Monday June 22nd, 2009 11:03:58 AM
Monthor taps Shirley with his palm.
" Yes, yes... let's get going... "
A Southern Vacation? [DM Jeff] d6=3 ; Monday June 22nd, 2009 1:46:01 PM
Through-out the month, Plyf seeks out any information she can about the Dread. The only thing the half-elf is able to find during that time is 3 gold for her troubles performing. But perhaps the complete lack of information is an important piece of knowledge in itself...
As far as being followed, Plyf doesn't seem to find anything out of the ordinary. Even with her shifty disguise, she doesn't think that she has caught the attention of anyone who might cause her trouble.
[OOC: Sorry about that. I honestly forgot that you had made those rolls when I went to post:
Gather Information is the only really relevent skill to finding out about the Sons of Dread. And as impressive as a 32 is, you're looking for information on a completely secretive group who manipulates entirely from the shadows.]
---
Vedik finds himself straining for knowledge about the Southern Continent. It strikes him that he has never come across a map of the place. He does recall rumours that the South has enough variety in the landscape as the entire rest of the Wold...
"The where has been tricky. I was afraid that I would have nothing but a simple direction to point you in today, but I've been given the same vision three nights in a row now. It is of an incredibly old woman being watched over by the Eye." Vran rubs his temples with his hands. It is quite obvious the man is under a great deal of strain. "If Gargul would speak instead of giving me visions to interpret... We all have our tasks."
Vran pull outs a small, gray disk. On it is the High Woldian Symbol for Gargul, the ever-seeing eye. But around that is another symbol: a simple snowflake. [Knowledge Religion Check DC 25: Highlight to display spoiler: {Something in your mind is tickled at the snowflake. You're not positive, but you seem to recall it being a holy symbol of an older Woldian God or, perhaps, one of the fabled Southern Powers.}
"Gargul has had me working on this since the day I left you. When I completed it last week, I had no clue what I had created, but a careful inspection has shown me a few things... One, apparently I poured a large amount of conjuration magic into this, a teleport I would guess. Two, I cannot activate it myself. I believe it is meant for you. And three, the disk seems to react to Woldsblood. With all of this information, I believe that this disk is how Gargul will point you in the right direction..."
Vran smiles unsteadily at the Knights as they mention his appearance. "I did not have an easy time returning to the Sons. They... do not like mysteries. But I must do what I must do. The contact I have re-established in the Sons can only keep this up so long. If she continues to 'punish' me without any sign of letting up, I will simply eliminate her. It... would not be so out of character." As easy as it sounds for him to say it, there is obviously a pained look on his face at the thought. Sense Motive check Dc 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {Vran has done more than his share of killing in his life and some of the weariness the Knights detect is Vran's resigned acceptance that he may have to do it again.}
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) d20+7=26 ; Monday June 22nd, 2009 4:35:23 PM
Sense Motive: 26
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet d20+8=16 ; Monday June 22nd, 2009 5:38:20 PM
Echlhin picks up little information from what the old man says (sense motive 16) besides his words.
Looking at the coin, he says "I lack any actual training in information pertaining to the various religions of the Wold, perhaps Tratain would have better insight into that disc."
"I understand your strain, and at times I have wished the same myself. It seems that this old woman is the one we are to seek. Perhaps things will become clearer as we get closer, or learn more."
TratainCurrent Spells d20+16=17 ; d20+10=25 ; Monday June 22nd, 2009 6:27:09 PM
Tratain examines the coin trying to figure out anything about it (Knowledge Religion 17, go go 1) but can't seem to recall anything at this time. After looking at it for a moment he passes it over to Vedik to hold as woldsblood is his expertise. Maybe Vedik can remember something that eludes Tratain at the Moment.
Tratain tells Vran "We will see you soon, if you need any help send word."
TratainCurrent Spells Monday June 22nd, 2009 6:55:53 PM
OOC: Long Term Buff Cast by Tratain so we don't forget.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Monday June 22nd, 2009 10:53:06 PM
ooc: Long term buffs cast by Echlhin on self, so I don't forget
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 d20+7=27 ; Monday June 22nd, 2009 11:29:42 PM
Dwight moves over to Vedik, to examine the coin as well, semi-ignoring Vran for the moment.
Knowledge [nature] as sometimes nature and religion are interconnected: 27 (natural 20!)
"This snowflake...well...ummm"
"For sure I hope it's not snowing in the southern continent."
OOC: Not sure what else I can add as the roll said Religion.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet d20+16=17 ; d20+31=36 ; d20+31=32 ; d20+31=44 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 8:42:02 AM
Vedik puzzles over the glyph for a moment, scratching his chin. "I know there's something ta it, but I can't put my finger on it at tha moment."
He casts detect magic, studying the glyph for several moments.
OOC: Knowledge Religion DC 25: failed Cast Detect Magic, examine auras (1 spellcraft check per aura, gave you 3 in case theres more than one: 36, 32,44)
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) d20+4=5 ; d20+4=8 ; Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 10:59:12 AM
Plyf has been in fights before, but she doesn't recall actually providing the killing blow on any enemy. All of her experience comes from working in the field helping others, not trying to take, either possessions or life.
She gets no response about a city on the southern continent, so she is a bit concerned about the area. She attempts to use her Bardic Knowledge on the Snowflake Glyph and their seeming destination. She is completely in the dark on such matters.
Bardic Knowledge on glyph: 5 (natural 1) Bardic Knowledge on Souther Continent: 8
MonthorHit Points:(172 of 172) AC 32 (34 against evil) Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 11:20:43 AM
Monthor chooses to remain silent and only nods when Tratain bids Vran good bye.
Mystery Disk! [DM Jeff] Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 12:39:36 PM
Vran departs the Knights without much fan-fare. He smiles at Tratain and Echlhin, before giving everyone a nod. "I know you are all capable of handling yourselves, but be careful... You are the best hope of destroying the Sons. May Gargul be with you." When he leaves, the group starts looking into what Vran has said.
Plyf tries to reach into her vast assortment of random facts, but all she can come across about the Southern Continent is a vague recollection about a Hook.
The only person to come up with anything regarding the snowflake is Dwight. He recalls one of the lands of the South is completely dominated by ice and snow. And the people there follow some fey-god. Celtic? Celsiun? Celsius? Something like that.
And finally, on the disc... Vedik finds a strong conjuration aura overwhelming the disk.
Monthor seems eager for Vran to leave and more eager for the Knights to go.
With Vran now gone, the Knights are left alone in the room with the the disk...
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 5:46:37 PM
"... so anyone else think that snowflake means we're probably heading somewhere chilly?" Echlhin ponders to the group.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 5:59:47 PM
"I'm pretty sure I can activate this now. Or we can wait a day and I can analyze it's dweomer and more fully understand what it will do." He ponders for a moment. "Could be a trap. Could be it works as he said. I'm willing ta go now. Just need to cast a spell or two first."
Buffs Magic Vestment on Shield and Tunic (CL 20, 20 hours, +5 bonus) Contingency: When an enemy begins to cast Disjunction, Dimension Door 1000 feet straight up.
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 7:23:02 PM
Plyf turns white. White as snow at the thought of cold. Wearing parkas and snow shoes. She almost swoons at the thoughts of freezing to death. She gulps once or twice, trying to catch her breath, clearly in distress.
"ho..h..ho....How chilly? Do we need to get some extra gear, like magically warm underwear or something?"
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Tuesday June 23rd, 2009 9:48:50 PM
Dwight relays what he can regarding the snowflake. "It tellsss of area worssshipsss by a god fey related like Ebryron, Seltic, Seltium, Seltariusss or sssum sssuch. Religion isssn't one of my ssstrong pointsss. I do agree the area isss likely to be quite cold though natural clothsss will likley be enough."
"Fully Buffed might be a good idea before we enter....ummm, jussst in cassse!"
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 Wednesday June 24th, 2009 6:09:44 AM
"Still... any time now girls.... we can go....."
Tratain Wednesday June 24th, 2009 9:13:00 AM
Tratain says "Well the only lead we have as to where we might end up is a snowflake. Lets go out and get some cold weather gear quick and then Vedik can try and activate the Device. If we do end up someplace really cold we can memorize some spells the next day to help, but I would rather have normal heavy clothing just in case."
Preparing for the Vacation [DM Jeff] Wednesday June 24th, 2009 12:51:49 PM
The Gray Knights ponder where they wil be teleported when they activate the Mystery Disk. Plyf worries about the temperature of where they are going. Dwight suggests getting some warmer clothing. Monthor just wants to head out.
In the end, the Knights decide to take a day so that Vedik can Analyze Dweomer and so everyone else can get cold weather gear.
[OOC: If you want to make any magical purchases, you'll have to run them through the Catacombs. But normal, non-magical stuff, feel free to purchase it on this board in Plateau City.]
The next morning, while the rest of the Knights are out preparing for the cold, Vedik casts Analyze Dweomer and learns the following:
- The disk is, indeed, designed to be for teleportation. From the strength of the aura, Vedik suspects it could teleport the Knights from anywhere in the Wold to the specific destination. - The specific spell involved is a Greater Teleport. - Everyone who desires transportation must be touching the holder of the disk in some way. - The disk is activated by placing a single drop of Woldsblood into the center of the eye. - Once the Woldsblood is placed, it will take a full minute before the teleport is activated. If anyone comes out of contact with the holder before this time, they will not be teleported.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Wednesday June 24th, 2009 6:47:12 PM
Echlhin goes out and picks up a cold weather outfit and a blanket, just in case, as well as changes some of the spells he normally memorizes in the morning.
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday June 24th, 2009 7:09:02 PM
Tratain picks up several Sets of Cold Weather Outfits and Blankets as well just to have incase they are needed and stores them in the Groups Portable Hole. He also changes some of his spells to prepare for cold weather.
Once everyone is ready he says to the Group "Lets give this a try Vedik, and see where we end up. I don't like the fact that it takes a full Minute for the Coin to activate so everyone needs to be prepared and don't let go of Vedik no Matter what."
------------- Buy 10 Sets of Cold Weather Outfits and 10 Winter Blankets.
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday June 24th, 2009 7:33:42 PM
OOC: Been Re-Doing my spell list, another Buff Tratain casts when the group is together and going out adventuring is Status.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Wednesday June 24th, 2009 7:46:43 PM
Before we are about to try and use the coin, Echlhin casts an Endure Elements and a Longstrider (forgot to include this in long term buffs) upon himself and an Extended Barkskin on Monthor, just in case.
--------------- Long Term Buffs: Barkskin, extended (3 spells used throughout day) up to 18 hours Longstrider, 18 hours Delay Poison, 18 hours Endure Elements, 24 hours
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 Wednesday June 24th, 2009 8:16:05 PM
Monthor does a quick trip to the Cats and buys a new pair of boots
Better safe then sorry.
=============================== Boots of the Winterlands This footgear bestows many powers upon the wearer. First, he is able to travel across snow at his normal speed, leaving no tracks. The boots also enable him to travel at normal speed across the most slippery ice (horizontal surfaces only, not vertical or sharply slanted ones) without falling or slipping. Finally, boots of the winterlands warm the wearer, as if he were affected by an endure elements spell.
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Wednesday June 24th, 2009 9:56:01 PM
Dwight gets some heavy weather clothes and a blanket, but otherwise feels he is as ready as he can be.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Thursday June 25th, 2009 11:56:56 AM
Vedik performs his normal morning routine, casting his normal spells and anointing the groups armor and shields with woldsblood. After casting the Analyze Dweomer, he uses his metamagic rod to extend Shapechange, but remains in dwarf form for now.
Finally, he gathers the Knights, explaining the physical contact requirement, and taking a drop from his personal vessel he activates the glyph.
OOC: Cast Analyze Dweomer Cast Shapechange, extended with rod Take drop from personal woldsblood container, activate glyph.
Buffs Magic Vestment on Shield and Tunic (CL 20, 20 hours, +5 bonus) Contingency: When an enemy begins to cast Disjunction, Dimension Door 1000 feet straight up. Shapechange: Extended (6 hours, CL 18)
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Thursday June 25th, 2009 12:30:10 PM
Plyf takes the time to shop for herself properly. She is glad she saved around five hundred gold from the Catacombs shopping spree. She finds the finest of everything she can. An arctic sleeping bag and a large pair of snow boots. Large enough for her to keep her feet nice and warm, while she wears her Boots of Teleportation. A nice shawl of course and these ear muffs would be nice, but that might limit her hearing, so she just goes with the large hood on her parka. A set of snow shoes just in case. She can always dump them if not needed.
With just a few gold remaining she rejoins the group with a large smile and a new outfit. They might be a bit annoyed at how long it took, but Plyf is sure they would prefer to see and be seen with a lovely lady then a hag.
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 Thursday June 25th, 2009 1:04:29 PM
Monthor's all buffed out and ready to go.
A land of snow and Ice Thursday June 25th, 2009 9:38:50 PM
Spells are cast, the warmest clothes are sought out and donned and the group gathers. Vedick then takes the disk and adds a drop of Woldsblood to the center upon the eye. The disk absorbs the drop nearly immediately and spreads to change the color of the entire object. Once done, the blood seems to gather again upon the eye though the disk remains changed in color. The Knights can feel the air about then gently blowing towards the disk, much like the effects in the alley outside of the Blue Ale Tavern that night. Over the course of the next minute the pull grows slightly and then the wold of Plateau City is gone.
What replaces it, is an all assault upon the Gray Knights. An assault in the form of devastating cold beyond anything the Knights have ever experienced. A stiff wind rips at exposed skin and your breath is stolen straight from your lungs. look about and get thier bearings. To the south, about 30 miles off, runs a line of mountains from east to west. To the north, east and west is open snow covered ground. The horizon blends into the sky disguising true distances, but it is clear, The Gray Knights are not within several days walk of anywhere. Spot DC 30 Highlight to display spoiler: {To the north more than 50 miles a mountain rises into the clouds some 15k+ feet}
To the east and moving quickly away can be seen deep black and gray storm clouds and with the Knights standing in 12" of fresh snow they can count themselves lucky they did not arrive earlier. The steady wind blows west to east and the cold seems to pull the heat directly from the body. The temperature is well below 0 and the moisture from exhaling is freezing nearly instantly. This can only be one place, The Ice Vein on the mysterious Southern continent.
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 Thursday June 25th, 2009 10:13:42 PM
Protected by his Winterland boots, Monthor feels all nice and snuggly.
" Well, there's another fine mess you've gotten us into!!"
" What now ladies? "
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 d20+18=29 ; d20+16=36 ; Thursday June 25th, 2009 10:33:28 PM
Dwight shivers at the extreme change, and looks around the new scenery for any onlookers, or a nearby fire for warmth he is already wishing to be near.
Spot: 29 Listen: 36 (natural 20!)
Dwight then casts 'endure elements' on himself to avoid the frostbite sure to form. He then considers throwing a snowball at Monthor, but holds it for now.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet d20+27=42 ; d20+27=35 ; d20+11=20 ; Thursday June 25th, 2009 11:50:18 PM
Echlhin is glad for the endure elements spell he cast before leaving. Looking around (spot = 42), he notices to the north a huge mountain rising into the clouds that is more than 50 miles off. After searching the area with his eye, he lets his ears adjust to his surroundings (listen = 35) to see if he can discern anything over the cold winds.
"There's a tall mountain there to the north way off in the distance, high enough that it rises into the clouds. I wonder if that may be our final destination?" With that, he contemplates their surroundings (Knowledge: Nature = 20).
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet d20+12=30 ; d20+16=23 ; Friday June 26th, 2009 12:16:56 PM
Vedik's breath is taken away by the biting cold. He pulls the parka closer to his face, and calls out into the wind. "Mountains? Seems a good direction as any to go. What do we know about the Ice Vein?"
The old dwarf ponders. "I can probably get us there quicker if need be."
OOC: Knowledge Geography on Ice Vein: 30 Knowledge Arcana: Anything odd about the magic down here, specifically Teleportation: 23
Buffs Magic Vestment on Shield and Tunic (CL 20, 20 hours, +5 bonus) Contingency: When an enemy begins to cast Disjunction, Dimension Door 1000 feet straight up. Shapechange: Extended (6 hours, CL 18)
TratainCurrent Spells d20+14=15 ; Friday June 26th, 2009 2:18:29 PM
Tratain gazes off into the Distance the way Echlhin has pointed but can't spot the Mountain (Another 1)
He says "That mountain seems to be our only landmark at the moment, lets head for it unless something else presents itself."
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 d20+5=7 ; d20=16 ; Friday June 26th, 2009 9:18:36 PM
Monthor searches and listens ( 7 and 16).
Using his boots to his advantage, Monthor doesn't seem to bothered by the foot of fresh snow.
" Me's all for quicker. "
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) d20+7=16 ; d20+10=29 ; d20+1=20 ; Friday June 26th, 2009 11:18:14 PM Oh these Sons of Dread will soon be Sons of Dead. Plyf thinks to herself as the money she paid for the gear seems barely enough to stay alive. She tests the snow to see if she needs her snow shoes.
In an attempt to relax the muscles in her body that by nature want to shiver to create warmth. She pulls from the belly of her spirit enough resolve to not, just teleport somewhere else. Anywhere else! She will for now, endure the thing she always hated, in an attempt to be a true hero. She wishes she bought two sets of gloves as she grips her bow to keep her fingers warm. She thinks of the things she will need to do to survive in this climate. She remembers her dad teaching her to occasionally run your fingers up and down the sting of her bow, so if she needs to use it, it won't be frozen and snap in her hand. She doesn't know off the top of her head, if a magical bow string will freeze or break, but the habit is good to keep.
She remains quiet to keep from cursing and becoming un-lady like. She follows whoever begins walking away, barely unaware of the mountain that is spoke of.
Listen: 16 Spot: 29 Survival: 20
Harsh Realities Friday June 26th, 2009 11:21:14 PM
The group looks about themselves, getting bearing, looking and listening for fanger and possible friends, pieicing together what they have heard and read about this land of perpetual ice and snow. The Cold continues to pull at your bodies. Everyone feels it. It has only been a handful of moments, but toes, fingers and exposed faces are already numb.
Echlhin can feel the cold, the spell blunts it, but the man knows it is not fully protecting him. Crystals dance across the surface at his feet, frost is forming on his shoulders wear his own breath is freezing nearly before it leaves his lungs. It is cold, far too cold. Unsheltered, even the Knights will succumb.
Vedik focuses beyond the Cold, What did know of the Ice Vein. Unfortunately not too much. But now standing here and feeling the cold his mind is sparked to memory. the Cold carries with it a Power. A force beyond sheer environment, but one with a will and it is perhaps that which is able to penetrate magical defences normally capable of holding off such as this. To the point of magical transit, he can think of nothing that should prevent it.
Plyf doesn't believe she will need to try and test if the shoes she has that claimed to help one stand on top of the snow actually work. What passes for thick clothes in Plateau doesn't seem to be working too well after all. Plfy notes the Knights breath all freezing, how her lungs burn with every breath and how the snow flakes chime as the ice crystals dance along the snow. Survival here would be very difficult indeed. So difficult in fact that currenlty Plyf does not think she could help anyone but herself.
Dwight notes the surrounding area and casts Endure Elements, yet he too can still feel the cold leeching away his body heat. A sound catches his keen ears and powers of observation. Something shifting beneath the snow to the groups left, perhaps 30' away.
The source does not stay hidden long. Rising from the snow, is a patch of the snow itself, measuring about 3'x3'. The snow lifts slightly and then slides to one side. This reveals the cause, a large wooden shield. The rim that binds it appears to be made from 4 tusks of some large creature. The center is dominated by a scale the size of a large humans hand and the color of pearl. Following the shield out of the ground is its owner and three other men. They are dressed in grey and white furs from head to foot. All appear male and a good head over 6 feet with broad shoulders. A composite bow is in hand for the two immediately following the shield bearer, while the fourth is pulling an 8' sled piled with butchered meat, skins and furs. The four stand side by side, having emerged from their snow cave and stare across the short distance to the Gray Knights. They stand in silence but for a moment or two, looking not only at the Knights, but about them as well. The shield bearer speaks, his voice gruff, but not advesarily, "I am Úlf-warja'Ingr, Austlanders. How have you come to the Ice Vein? Though it seems so much more prepared than the last." He will nods to the other three men who move, stowing the bows and pulling great thick white pelts from the sled.
"Ice Peak is not far, but you will need these." The three move to assit the Knights in securing the pelts and start to make other adjustments to the cold weather gear already worn.
TratainCurrent Spells Sunday June 28th, 2009 8:03:58 PM
Tratain watches the Men for a moment but decides that they don't seem to mean the group any harm.
He says "Greetings Ulf-warja'Ingr, My name is Tratain and these are my companions the Grey Knights. We have come here by means of a magical device that Gargul has had made for us. We have come to battle a great enemy of ours Called the Son's of Dread, have you heard of them or know where we might find them? And you have said others have come here who are they if I may ask, and also I am afraid I have not heard of a place called Ice Peak before. Is that the name of a village or mountain?"
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet d20+15=31 ; Sunday June 28th, 2009 11:33:55 PM
Echlhin introduces himself, thanks them for their assistance, and tries to pay attention to how to properly dress for this climate and assisting others in the party try and acclimate to their new surroundings. (Survival check 31 (33 is staying above ground). +2 bonus to all Fort. saves against severe weather while moving 1/2 overland speed for entire party).
"Is Ice Peak the mountain off in the distance to our north?" He asks of Ulf-warja'Ingr.
He contemplates mentioning the snowflake symbol, but leaves that decision for the others.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Sunday June 28th, 2009 11:36:04 PM
(( type-o "... for this climate and assisting others..." should be "... for this climate while assisting others..."))
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Monday June 29th, 2009 7:51:43 AM
Vedik lets Tratain speak for the group, keeping his mind at work on the problem. If they recognize the name Gargul, they are not the Lost we seek most likely. But their village may be the place where the elder woman from the vision resides. It sounds like Ice Peak is the name of the village.
"I am Vedik" he says by way of introductions. "Well met Úlf-warja'Ingr. Thank ya for yer hospitality"
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 Monday June 29th, 2009 8:08:55 AM
Monthor readies action ( defends against the nearest man should they attack) and waits for Tratain to give instructions.
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Monday June 29th, 2009 11:25:22 AM
Plyf pulss her bow string as she watches the forms move beneath the snow. Seeing that they are not hostile for the moment, she points he bow toward the ground and goes back to rubbing the string. When introductions are made, through clenched teeth she taps herself on the chest and says, "Plyf".
She looks at their out fit and wonders if they want them to ride or walk.
Sending out catacombs receipt tonight and updating character.
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Monday June 29th, 2009 1:29:38 PM
Dwight waits for Tratain's more commanding presence to respond to the local natives. He nods thankfully for the warmer clothes, and wonders to what extent they prevent the cold when his magic did not.
I must look like a floating back a pelts by now with the blanket, pelts, coats and such. One big giant furball! Surely a cave will be warmer...lead on already! I hold a hot cup of something awaits whichever direction we go.
Dwight is content to let the natives lead and Tratain; thankful the natives didn't allow the Gray Knights to freeze to death.
Going Native Monday June 29th, 2009 7:03:55 PM
Úlf-warja'Ingr stands stiocally during Tratains introductions, "Well met then Gray Knights. I am the Hunt Leader. I do not know of any called the Sons of Dread or Gargul."
"The others called themselves the BloodPack and hailed from a Land they called the Sawgrass."
Úlf-warja'Ingr raises his eyebrows when Echlhin mentions the mountain to the north. "That is Burfell and if it has shown itself to you." He pauses as if trying to decide for himself what the meaning may indeed be. His decision seems to be to stop trying, "Come with must get to our Village, Ice peak."
Echlhin observes the men as they replace much of the furs previously purchased and layer others about. It is not complex but the order seems quite particular and every 'rearrangement' seems identical. Odds are good he could duplicate what he just watched.
Úlf-warja'Ingr sets to lead towards the west. "Follow my trail and you will not die. Signal when you feel weak, the village is 4 hours and so you will need to stop that you can get warm in a shelter." He then looks to those wearing metallic armor, "And when we do, you will need to take that off."
The group is then off, the cold still leeches away at your bodies, toes, fingers and noses are all but completely numb. The Group has been here for perhaps 5 minutes. Plyf and Echlhin both quickly calculate hypothermia is maybe 10 more minutes away for the group in general with individual results varying. 4 hours though, not likely any of them could hike straight through. How do the natives do it. Must be some sort of trick, has to be.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 of 191 Character Sheet Monday June 29th, 2009 10:29:39 PM
"You and yours appear well traveled in these weathers Ulf-warja'Ingr." Echlhin says, "I thought myself well traveled and able to survive in most areas, but I fear that I could not survive in regions such as this without some form of assistance. How can you protect yourself so well from the cold's bite? Have you and your people lived in these weathers for a long time? No offense intended, but given your title as a Hunt Leader, what is it that you hunt?"
Echlhin ponders for a moment and then decides it best just to simply ask, "Please forgive all of my questions, but I was also wondering if you know of or have seen a symbol that looks like a snowflake before?"
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 127/137) Tuesday June 30th, 2009 11:18:15 AM
Plyf gratefully takes whatever warrmth is available and moves witht he group, attempting to not get seperatted by the blinding cold.
Vedik AC 24 (13 touch) HP 191/191 Character Sheet Tuesday June 30th, 2009 2:07:43 PM
Vedik shivers. Although he wants to shift into a form more able to withstand the cold, that will only help him, not his companions. Plus he's not sure how the southlanders will take such a transformation.
The dwarf fixes his eye on the person in front of him, saying little and thinking much. Every minute or so, he looks around, making sure everyone in the party is still with the group. His thinking brings him round to speculation. Eventually he looks up and asks. "The symbol on your sheild? Will you tell us about it?"
Buffs Magic Vestment on Shield and Tunic (CL 20, 20 hours, +5 bonus) Contingency: When an enemy begins to cast Disjunction, Dimension Door 1000 feet straight up. Shapechange: Extended (6 hours, CL 18)
TratainCurrent Spells Tuesday June 30th, 2009 4:47:02 PM
Tratain casts Endure Elements on himself in an attempt to keep the cold at bay, he just travels with the Ice Veiners towards thier village listening to what they have to say about this place.
MonthorHit Points:(213 of 213) AC 42 Tuesday June 30th, 2009 6:12:03 PM
Monthor follows the others but keeps an eye and ear out for trouble
Dwight hp 144, ac 26 Tuesday June 30th, 2009 9:55:25 PM
Dwight takes heart, wonder and fear by what the hunt leader means when he says 'signal when you feel week'; perhaps now would be a good time to end my prohibitions against ale, it could certainly warm me up some
Floating along, to keep pace with the others, Dwight is very willing to say he is weak prior to collapsing and being forgotten in the snow. "Whatsss the temp here, sssertainly below zerosss." he manages to squeak out.
Going Native 4d4=14 ; 2d6=4 ; Tuesday June 30th, 2009 9:55:45 PM
The pace is strong but so much that any are in fear of being left behind. To the Knights it is apparent the hunters are are going slower than usual. For a few moments it seems as if no questions will get answered, but then Ulf-warja'Ingr stops and turns, "It is not our custom to speak when travelling. It wastes energy and causes greater hardship, but." He simply ceases his train of thought and begins again. "We are the sons and daughters of Celsiun." At the uttereance of the name all four men dip thier heads in reverence. "We have lived and thrived here for countless generations and have learned the secrets of the ancients."
"Beyond the symbol of snow, I do not know what a snowflake might mean, but I am not knowlegdable in the arts." Pointing to his shield, "This is my family emblem and my honor to carry as the hunt leader." "To what I hunt? Iss wolf and bear mostly. The scum of Twin Tusk when need arises." The utterance of Twin Tusk also draws a reaction from his comrades, one of snarls and all three spit to the ground. We will set up a shelter soon by the shrine and speak more if you wish it."
His eyes flicker across the western skies and his face grows stern, "We must push before the Ve Komar comes. The power winds." His arm points west to what seems like just more clouds. Survial DC 35 Highlight to display spoiler: {A group of clouds is moving north to south}
Ulf-warja'Ingr then sets his pace again. Any with Survival training note it is nearly never in a staright line, but only after the group has shifted tracks do you note the slightly discolored snow, ever so more white than what lies next to it. The group walks for nearly 2 hours before breaking. Everyone takes 14 subdual damage and Plyf takes an additional 4 lethal damage from the cold
The group breaks and erects 4 four man shelters about 30' from a statue carved of Ice and rock. The rock portion is the bottom half of a liontaur and the ice is of the upper human half. large black 'stripes' of color cross the back midsection and flanks. Monthor and Tratain instantly recognize the likeness as Lumi-Juova. While the others erect the shelters and light small fires within, Ulf-warja'Ingr moves to the statue, takes a knee and draws a black metal shortsword.
Plyf (AC:23; HP: 133(122)/137) d20+1=16 ; Wednesday July 1st, 2009 11:28:51 AM
Plyf suffers miserably from the cold, stiff air that easily works it's way through her winter clothes, past her skin and muscle and now has started chipping away at her bones. Her fingers, inside her gloves likely look like her lips, a deep purple, as her skin around her face begins to turn even a paler shade of olive white that not even her elven heritage could bring out.
She wraps all the warmth she can about herself, and in her mind, she contemplates the diplomacy difficulty she would have, of the Bluff she would need, to be able to talk herself inside the worn clothes of one of the natives of this land, for purely plutonic reasons of course.
When a fire is finally started, she almost sneak attacks the person that blocks her from it.
Survival: 16
ooc: CS is updated, I believe. Feel free to look for errors please.
TratainCurrent Spells Wednesday July 1st, 2009 5:21:23 PM
Tratain does what the Ice Veiners tell him to do to warm up inside the shelter. Upon seeing the sculpture of Lumi Tratain waits until the Man has finished at the statue and then says to him "Is that Lumi-Juova? I knew he was from the Ice Vein. Do you know him? We Traveled together for a while. Together we defeated a great evil in a place full of great evils. He was a True hero and fine traveling companion."
Dwight hp 160(146)160, ac 31 d20=8 ; Wednesday July 1st, 2009 9:58:02 PM
Dwight huddles near the fire, and watches as the hunters prepare for storm. He realizes that without the help of these natives, he would either have teleported home or froze to death. He is grateful for small blessings but wonders how much payment will be needed to repay their kindness; he thinks of this regardless of whether they ask for it.
Echlhin AC 34 (Touch 28/34 vs. Incorp.) HP 191 (177) of 191 Character Sheet d20+17=35 ; Wednesday July 1st, 2009 11:13:41 PM
Echlhin notices the group of clouds moving north to south, "Ve Komar. The power winds" he says aloud more to himself, to try and remember the conditions of this rugged land.
Noticing Plyf's condition he will cast an Endure Elements on her if she does not have one already. While it will not prevent the bite of the cold, it may help a little in dulling the damage caused.
He then proceeds to warm himself as best he can before they must push on. ------------------------------------ Add Endure Elements to daily spells cast on self while in these conditions
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