New Beginnings (DM Donna) Monday February 12th, 2001 7:37:02 AM
There is a period of several days in which the newly formed party of Taurs explores Hearthold Keep from top to bottom. Kular is helpful in getting the adventurers used to their surroundings and--true to the steward's words--many more centaurs, minotaurs and wemics arrive on Bridge Island.
The new arrivals quickly find their particular niches to fill. By the time Hearthold Keep has its first non-resident visitor, the place is fully staffed with all the service personnel and even extra guards to secure Bridge Island and even the interior of Hearthold itself.
Kular the Steward oversees the running of Hearthold, aided by Neima, the matronly but firm wemic chatelaine; Borus, a minotaur paladin who captains the Heartguard, the interior security force of Hearthold and guardians of the Heart Chamber; Meralda, the centaur huntress who organizes the patrols that keep Bridge Island secure (as well as provides the meat that usually goes on the table); and B'minny, a crusty old minotaur who makes the lightest, flakiest biscuits ever to grace a table--just don't messing about in HIS kitchen, or you'll find yourself on the wrong end of his meat cleaver!
The Summons Monday February 12th, 2001 7:43:11 AM
The first non-residential visitor to Hearthold is announced during breakfast by Neima, who comes padding heavily into the room with little ceremony.
"Masterrrs and Mistrrresses," she says loudly, "The drrruid Hollyhocks wishes an audience with you. He says that it is of the utmost imporrrtance." The housekeeper blinks languid hazel eyes as she awaits permission to show the centaur druid into the dining room.
Kale Monday February 12th, 2001 9:17:00 AM
"Let him enter." Kale says. "But not until we finish eating."
Flat-top Monday February 12th, 2001 10:06:57 AM
"Now! Kale. Let'd be nice to a Centaur Cleric, He's the one that sent us to you, DEAR PAL." Flat-top turn to the wemic,"Please show Druid Hollyhocks in, also would please set a place for him at the table, Thank you Taur Neima". Looking back at the others ask,"How's your oatmeal this morning?".
Kenisha Monday February 12th, 2001 11:49:22 AM
Kenisha shakes her head smiling as the two of them banter back and forth. "The oatmeal is just fine and I'm sure Hollyhocks will just love to have some with us." She finally looses it and snickers softly behind her hand.
"I really should head over to Centaur Isle and see if I can convince my great-aunt, Minisha, to come live here as well. It's not that I don't think she can't see the bridge already... She is the one who raised me to be tolerant of the minotaurs after all; it's just that she's a hermit and enjoys living by herself."
Thiel Monday February 12th, 2001 2:31:29 PM
"Tolerance of all races is a worthy pursuit of all races. please do show the young hollyhocks in I still have much to learn of the uses of herbs and nature as ahealing force." Thiel then turns back to his meal.
Leets Monday February 12th, 2001 3:38:54 PM
Leets smells the content of the cup before him, thinking that he's been drinking a little bit too much the last days. He abandons the cup with a grimace, takes another one and pours water inside. "The oatmeal is great, Flat-Top! Like every day I've been spending here..." "Neima, I'll gladly meet this druid, I'm already missing the forest and perhaps will she bring some news..." Leets drinks some water, and bites in a piece of fresh bread.
Zeoll Monday February 12th, 2001 6:27:35 PM
As Zeoll enjoys his breakfast, he marvels at the friendly banter and conversation he hears around the table. "My only rregrret," he says to Kenisha, whom he sits next to at the table, "is that Ashrrad and Morrdengast failed the test at the end. But the Lord Domi was wise in his Chosen, and I am amazed at how we who rremain have forrmed ties as close as clan kin."
But to the careful observer, the liontaur's words stand in contrast to his appearance -- Zeoll looks like he hasn't been sleeping very well. "The mass of the Keep's stone seems oppressive all around me," he thinks to himself. "I am not used to the luxury of this setting, and wemics like me sleep best out of doors." In fact, the only sleep he has gotten has come after praying at length before the Living Heart. The rhythm has soothed him to sleep at last each night.
His only remark to his comrades, though, is to praise the skill of Meralda, with whom he has spent most days, and with whom he trades hunting lore. Still even that has not distracted him of thoughts of his clan, decimated by foul hell hounds back home.
Nonetheless, Zeoll also calls for a quick entry for the druid. "By all means, brring him herre, good Neima! We must show honorr to one who helped brring us togetherr."
Ceira Karwyn Monday February 12th, 2001 7:00:22 PM
Ceira looks around the table at everyone's reaction. "Many of you praise the deeds of this centaur. But is he really that good?" she asks with a hiss.
After a few brief seconds of silence she realizes her error and continues. "I apologize for my reaction. I must admit I normally do not like centaurs. I have managed to suppress my feelings these past few days. That was easy considering how kind and considerate Flat-top, Kennisha, and Leets have been. I am shocked by your kindness and glad to be in your company. Please, please. Show Neima in. I should learn not be so quick to judge others."
Kalon the Wemic Monday February 12th, 2001 8:19:28 PM
Kalon slowly ate the delicious porridge as he listened to his companion's conversations. He had spent the last couple of years mostly alone while pursuing his quest. He was finding the art of conversation was long in returning to him. Everyone of them had been most kind and pleasent yet he didn't know exactly what to do. This interesting turn of events in his life was hard for him to get used to even after a couple of days.
So unsure he merely watched and waited for the druid to arrive.
Enter Hollyhocks (DM Donna) Tuesday February 13th, 2001 8:05:10 AM
Neima folds her arms across her ample bosom as Kale and then Flat-top give contradictory orders.
"I think that maybe you guys have been hitting the Purple Wine a little early," the chatelaine says frankly, "Never mind--he's a guest and a druid for our mutual deity...I'll go get him." The wemic female leaves the dining room, muttering.
A few moments later, Neima returns, announcing:
"Masters and Mistresses, the druid of Domi...Hollyhocks!"
Into the room comes the centaur that Flat-top and Kenisha recall meeting at the Clearspring Temple. Everyone else in the room sees for the first time a broad-chested centaur with a silver-gray coat; he has a black mane and tail and dark brown eyes. He wears a silver holy symbol around his neck--a large pendant engraved with crossed swords.
"I thank you for seeing me on such short notice, questors," the druid says, nodding to everyone in acknowledgement, "I see that Domi has favored you with a status that will be hard to refute amongst all our peoples." Neima escorts the centaur to a clear place at the table.
"Catch up on the local gossip while I get your breakfast from B'minny..." she bids Hollyhocks and trots silently off to the kitchen. The druid looks around him, obviously bemused and awed by the fact that not only minotaurs but wemics are part of this new establishment.
"I must say..." he admits, "...I misjudged the dream that came to us--it was not a call to arms, but a call to brotherhood, it seems. How are you all finding your stay here so far..?"
Thiel Tuesday February 13th, 2001 9:49:12 AM
Thiel sits quietly waitinfg for Hollyhocks to sit and jion in the meal. He then says to holly hocks "Welcome to Bridge Island and this is hearthold a begining to the unification of our races. " your arrival while welcome is not I feel by chance. Eat and reacuaint yourself with your old companions. and those who have only just met you. later we can discuss what it is you want from the chosen of Imod.
Flat-top Tuesday February 13th, 2001 11:06:44 AM
"I see that you found the bridges,Master Druid Hollyhochs." said Flat-top. "That's means that you were called here. Hmmm we await your calling. It has to do with all of us."
Leets Tuesday February 13th, 2001 4:00:47 PM
The young centaur Paladin swallows the last piece of bread that was in his hand - he almost suffocates and stops caughing after a couple of seconds. He smiles at the arriving druid, breathing again:
"Grettings Hollyhocks! Be welcome among us and please take a seat! I don't know if Domi favored me with some kind of status, but I'm missing the shadow of the trees, the soil under my hooves and the smell of the grass! What kind of news are you bringing to us? I'm pretty sure you didn't come here just to share our breakfast..."
Zeoll Tuesday February 13th, 2001 7:18:01 PM
Zeoll speaks to Hollyhocks in Druidic, a language that comes naturally to him. "Welcome! Welcome! It makes me happy indeed to greet a fellow naturalist and fellow follower of Great Domi! Please do not stand on ceremony -- join us and speak freely. And perhaps we can find pleasure in Druidic conversation later on."
In Tauric, the liontaur continues, "Please sit now and offerr us yourr wisdom. Imod has indeed blessed us, but we do not yet know how best to honorr his blessings."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday February 13th, 2001 8:17:00 PM
Kalon continues to lay where he is quietly eating his food and waiting for the duid to speak.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday February 13th, 2001 10:43:10 PM
Ceira takes in another mouthful of the oatmeal. Stuffing her mouth should prevent her from saying anything stupid in front of this respected centaur. She gives Hollyhocks a slight nod as a sign of greeting. With strained effort, she also puts on a weak smile as she awaits what the centaur has to say.
Kenisha Wednesday February 14th, 2001 1:03:53 AM
Kenisha smiles at Hollyhocks sweetly and offers, "Would you care for some oatmeal? It's especially good with the honey here."
Kale Wednesday February 14th, 2001 5:51:20 AM
"I dont think you came here to eat and make chit-chat." Kale says bluntly to Hollyhocks. "Why are you here?"
The Business at Hoof (DM Donna) Wednesday February 14th, 2001 6:44:27 AM
"Winnowill sends you all her greetings, chosen ones," Hollyhocks says, nodding as he acknowledges the friendliness of most and also the need to state his reason for coming, "I come bearing some rather puzzling news...and a request from the Master Druid of Clearspring Temple for your help in dealing with that news." The guest paused as a server from the kitchen--this time a female minotaur--brought a bowl of oatmeal and a caddy of condiments and placed them before Hollyhocks.
"Thank you, miss, this will be fine." the druid tells the maid, then returns to his conversation with the party.
"The Temple's primary supplier of sacred Blue Wine is having some trouble with its vineyard." Hollyhocks says simply. "The precise nature of the trouble has not been made clear to me, but Winnowill deems it very important that you should go see the vintner as soon as possible and find out what needs to be done. There is an ordination ceremony coming up in three days, and the Temple must have the Blue Wine needed to initiate the five new druids chosen to join our ranks."
"So, honored of Domi," the centaur druid says as he looks around the table at each of you, "Will you kindly go see what the trouble is at the Surefoot Family Vineyards..?"
Flat-top Wednesday February 14th, 2001 11:29:37 AM
"You see,Druid Holyhock, one of the reason we seem to work together so well is we think of each other as one unit."said Flat-top. "That's why we call our selves Taurs,one unit,one tribe." Flat-top turn to Kale,and puts his arm around him(Kale)with a glass of milk in his(Flat-top) hand, ask him" Well it's a nice life here, But I'm voting for an adventure, You know, Old Friend, A Good Fight. I vote we go to find Winnowill, and help him at Surefoot Family Vineyard." Turning to the rest of the party, ask"What say you all."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday February 14th, 2001 10:31:35 PM
At the mention of a quest Kalon set his food aside and rose to his feet in one smooth motion. He bowed deeply to the druid and spoke clearly to him,"Great and honored druid I am Kalon and I would be deeply honored to undertake this quest" he then stood there a look of excitement on his face.
Zeoll Wednesday February 14th, 2001 11:53:42 PM
Zeoll cannot help but think for a moment that at the same time that this druid needs sacramental wine, wemics back home are being slaughtered by hell hounds. "Well, Tomi works in strange ways," he thinks, "and we can only trust in him."
Out loud, the liontaur responds to Hollyhocks enthusiastically, "We will, of courrse, be glad to help out. Grreat Imod sent you to us forr a rreason, and we will find guidance in His wisdom."
Ceira Karwyn Thursday February 15th, 2001 1:08:02 AM
Ceira gulps down her mouthful of oatmeal and finally speaks up. "I believe this is why I have been summoned here." She puts down her wine, rises from her seat, and gives a slight bow. "Ceira Karwyn at your service. With only three days, we must make haste."
Kenisha Thursday February 15th, 2001 1:11:15 AM
"Yes, I'm all for aiding in this quest. I do have one suggestion. If we can not solve this mystery before you need the wine you could ask the Minotaurs for some." Kenisha replies sweetly. "We are after all, all Taurs in our God's eyes."
Leets Thursday February 15th, 2001 3:38:37 AM
Leets let his wooden spoon fall in his empty bowl.
"Yeh! I will be more than glad to come back home with my new friends! Hope we can help about this Blue Vine problem..."
The young Paladin stands up, enthusiastic.
"Let's go my friends! Let's show everybody that the Taurs are back!"
Kale Thursday February 15th, 2001 6:34:06 AM
"Well, of course ill go along." Kale says to Flat-Top as he wiggles out from under his arm. "I saved all your butts last time, and gods only know how many times ill have to do it again."
Houston, We're Cleared for Take-off..! (DM Donna) Thursday February 15th, 2001 8:15:35 AM
Hollyhocks coughs politely then leans over towards Flat-top, saying in a stage whisper:
"Winnowill is a female." Then, upon hearing that the entire party is amenable to helping out the Temple's premier supplier of holy wine, Hollyhocks grins.
"My thanks in advance!" he says enthusiastically. "The Surefoot Family Vineyards truly do need help with whatever the problem is that they are having, and it will be a good thing for the centaurs to see a united group of...Taurs...chosen by Domi assisting such an important part of our life."
Hollyhocks spends the next twenty minutes or so partaking the excellent breakfast, giving the party directions on how to find the Vineyard, and answering any other questions that you may have.
Flat-top Thursday February 15th, 2001 10:45:45 AM
OH! I see" said Flat--top, Then leans over to Kale and whispers in his ear" Did you hear that, Kale? Winnowill is a female." Flat-top pick up a big spoon and starts to preem his hair and main, asking Kale, "Do you think that she could like a fine Taur like me?"
Kenisha Thursday February 15th, 2001 1:09:58 PM
Kenisha twaps Flat-top playfully on his rump. "She didn't seem that enthralled with you the first time we met her; and I doubt you're figure has changed that much since then."
Turning to Hollyhocks she says with sugary sweetness, "I'm sure that Imod will bless this quest with success if we all enter into it with the same brotherhood that we solved the last one with. And mayhaps I'll be able to visit with my great aunt, Minisha when we are done."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday February 15th, 2001 6:55:16 PM
As the druid was eating his breakfast Kalon excused himself and ran off to his room. Once there he collected his meagre belongings. Livinf here had been interesting but it was abit stifling after the past years on his own. Not to mention he was eager to see if this might lead to what he sought. As the druid was finishing off his food Kalon trotted back in.
"I am ready Hollyhocks" he said crisply
Zeoll Friday February 16th, 2001 7:34:15 AM
Zeoll asks the druid for more info. "What details can you give us about the naturre of the prroblem? I'm not rreally surre I see the entirre picturre."
Ceira Karwyn Friday February 16th, 2001 7:45:57 AM
Ceira waits for an answer to Zeoll's question since that was roughly the exact same thing she was going to ask Hollyhocks.
Last Minute Details (DM Donna) Friday February 16th, 2001 7:47:33 AM
"Well, that's just it, friend Zeoll," Hollyhocks says with a rather puzzled look on his face, "Silkshanks Surefoot--she runs the vineyard for her herd--has not made it very clear as to what the problem is...only that it is serious enough to need outside intervention." The assistant druid pauses thoughtfully.
"I can tell you what I've heard, though--but this is merely heresay, mind you..." Hollyhocks says seriously, "...it's been rumored that the vineyard is...haunted."
Kale Friday February 16th, 2001 9:22:40 AM
"Haunted shmaunted." Kale says "I aint afraid of no ghost."
Kalon the Wemic Friday February 16th, 2001 9:48:16 AM
Kalon listened as Hollyhocks explained the situation further eager to be on his way. Turning to the group he says,"Come my fellow taurs the easiest way for us to find out the truth and to find out more information is to go see for ourselves" he stamped his front paws,"As we wait things may change for the worse let us hasten to this great adventure and see with our own eyes what is happening!"
Flat-top Friday February 16th, 2001 11:01:50 AM
"Hmm haunted," said Flat-top,"sound interesting... Let us start packing and start as soon as possible. Lets meet in the Great Hall and say our good bye to the Joined Heart."
Thiel Friday February 16th, 2001 11:59:26 AM
Oh Boy Oh boy Oh boy! A haunting we will go A haunting we will go da da dada dada A haunting we will go. Lets just be sure to bring plenty of that delicious blue wine Kular keeps serving us. With that Thiel makes for his room and packs his things making sure to bring his trusty rope and his shinyest religios symbol.
Leets Friday February 16th, 2001 2:04:53 PM
The young centaur suddenly looks very serious... "Haunted...? But the vineyard is...is...almost a holy place!" He leaves the dining room obviously annoyed, and comes back a couple of minutes later, ready to go.
"As you said wise Kalon...The best way to solve the problem is to see by ourselves..."
Ceira Karwyn Saturday February 17th, 2001 12:32:50 AM
There is a frown on Ceira's face upon the mention of ghosts. "Ghosts? Let's hope it stays as a rumor. I am not too fond of ghosts but... if it exists, I will endure it for the sake of the Taur in need." Ceira heads to her room to pack a few belongings and will meet in the Great Hall as Flat-top suggested.
Kenisha Sunday February 18th, 2001 4:29:41 PM
"If there are ghosts we shall do our best to resolve the matter. If it be something else we shall root out the problem with vigor and determination. Kenisha replies before going to retrieve her belongings for this new quest.
She then goes to where the Joined Heart is and waits for the others.
Zeoll Monday February 19th, 2001 12:21:11 AM
As the others depart to prepare for the mission, Zeoll speaks to Hollyhocks in Druidic. "The spirits of the dead are no match for the forces of the living world. We shall soon set things to rights."
Then he too prepares (not much to do there -- Zeoll is always ready to travel) and meets the others before the heart.
Off to Centaur Island..! (DM Donna) Monday February 19th, 2001 8:00:56 AM
Hollyhocks waits until ten of the clock for everyone to get their stuff together and join him in his return to Centaur Island.
The party members pack their backpacks and otherwise prep for the trip to the home of the equine Taurs. Just as all who are going have assembled in the Heart Chamber, Kular comes in with some stuff he wishes to distribute to the newest members of the group.
"Our patron deity has seen fit to give these things to those who don't already have them..." the steward says, then approaches Leets, handing the paladin a shiny shield, much like the one he already possesses, "...this is a shield infused with magic to help you defend yourself in battle. Use it well." Then the Taur turns to Ciera and gives her a ring that resembles a pair of miniature swords twined together and then bent around to create the ring shape.
"This ring will help protect you not only against physical blows but also against magic that may be used against you, too." Kular explains, then turns to Kalon, handing the monk a necklace. "You, too, have such protection in this medallion. Now you are all ready to go to Centaur Island." The steward holds the door open as the party departs, stoically bidding all of you goodbye...and good luck!
(OOC: Leets may now add a +1 Large Steel Shield to his character sheet--it improves his Armor Class by one over his original shield due to the +1 magic on it; Ciera has a Ring of Resistance and Deflection, and Kalon now possesses an Amulet of Resistance and Deflection...both items add +1 to Armor Class AND +1 to all Saving Throws. Make the proper adjustments to your Character Sheets and send me the newly-adjusted copies!)
Leets Monday February 19th, 2001 9:35:28 AM
Leets looks at the shiny shield with sparkling eyes, obviously touched.
"Thank you good Kular...All the things I have were part of my mother's equipment, and are precious to me, but...I know understand the way she got all those things, and although they seem even more precious to me for what they mean, I also understand that new ones can be as much precious when they are offered by friends like you..."
Leets holds his shield high, making the light reflect on its bright surface.
"Good Kular, you can be sure that I'll cherish your gift and honor it on the battlefield against evil..."
The young Paladin proudly wear the shield on his forearm.
"I'm more than ready to leave my friends!"
Flat-top Monday February 19th, 2001 11:06:35 AM
Flat-top smiles at the young paladin Leets and tells him "Ah! yes my young friend, Domi is very good to us, we all received something special from the God. Use it with honor." Turns and with a cocky smile," Hey, Pretty Face, are you going to march with me, again?" Hoping that Kale will rise to the bate.
Kalon the Wemic Monday February 19th, 2001 8:54:15 PM
Kalon takes the amulet holding it with reverence and awe. He stands there beaming with pride as he holds it. He then moves over to Kular and bows deeply to him,"This is a very fine gift Kular but I am unworthy of such a gift." he extends it back toward Kular,"Can you please hold it for me until my return perhaps then I" will have earned it. He stands holding the amulet out to Kular
Zeoll Tuesday February 20th, 2001 12:15:37 AM
When the group is gathered before the Unsundered Heart, Zeoll draws both of his swords and, crossign them in the symbol known to all present, invites everyone to honor the Taurs' God before setting forth.
"As we prreparre to deparrt frrom ourr new home, let us lift ourr spirrits and prraise Imod, who grrants us wisdom in battle; Domi, who gives us the brraverry we need for victorry; and Tomi, who gives us the strrengths we need to surrvive and to prrotect others. Grreat Lorrd Taurr, grrant us your blessing. Amen."
Kenisha Tuesday February 20th, 2001 12:59:34 AM
Moving over to Kalon and Kular, Kenisha places a hand on the wemic's arm. "Tis impolite to refuse such a gift, my friend." she says softly. "Besides as Flat-top has already said, each of us has received similar gifts. If you unwilling to wear it just yet, at least take it with you. Tis best to be prepared for the future, instead of cursing in the dark for lack of a candle." With that she laughs, closing Kalon's hand over the amulet.
Kenisha Tuesday February 20th, 2001 12:59:59 AM
Moving over to Kalon and Kular, Kenisha places a hand on the wemic's arm. "Tis impolite to refuse such a gift, my friend." she says softly. "Besides as Flat-top has already said, each of us has received similar gifts. If you unwilling to wear it just yet, at least take it with you. Tis best to be prepared for the future, instead of cursing in the dark for lack of a candle." With that she laughs, closing Kalon's hand over the amulet.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday February 20th, 2001 4:02:41 AM
Ceira stares in awe at the ring that rests on her cupped hands. "But... but... you barely know me." she stutters in a confused and skeptical tone. "No centaur has ever been this nice to me before." She now smiles proudly. "I am honored to accept this gift. Thank you Kular. I now know this keep will be in good hands. I will utilize this gift to the fullest potential towards the unification of the Taurs!" She slips the ring on her finger and polishes it on her mane.
G'bye! G'bye! (DM Donna) Tuesday February 20th, 2001 6:51:43 AM
Kular raises an eyebrow at Kalon, then eyes Kenisha as the centaur explains things to the monk. Ceira's surprise and delight cause the steward to snort and prance a bit impatiently.
"Look, these items do NOT come from me,but from our mutual patron deity--whether you call him Domi, Imod or Tomi..." the Taur says emphatically, "...'tis He whom gives you these items, that you use them to help show all the Taur races that they may unite to fight the good fight." Kular's tone turns brusque: "Now, hurry up--there's a vineyard with a problem that needs your help..!" With this, the steward of Hearthold sweeps a dismissive arm towards the opened double doors that lead out to the trail that, in turn, will lead to Centaur Island from here.
Kale Tuesday February 20th, 2001 9:51:05 AM
Kale smiles a bit from under his hood. "No , but you can travel with me. I dont march." Kale says to Flat-Top as he exits the Keep
Flat-top Tuesday February 20th, 2001 11:27:37 AM
Flat-top smile fade just a little, thinks to himself < Someday we will see who is the better fighter, you or I> but out loud he tell the rest of the party,"Now to business! Fill two by two behind Hollyhock Two fighters in front, Kale and I. Wizards and Cleric in the middle and at lest two fighter in the back. Now line up and let's GO!" Flat-top turns and trots up to Kale. With a smile tells him," I'll walk with you,Buddy."
Kenisha Tuesday February 20th, 2001 12:09:37 PM
Grinning, Kenisha asks, "Well asn I am of the magic-using persuasion, who wants to pair up with me?"
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday February 20th, 2001 4:26:15 PM
Turning to Kenshia Kalon says,"I mean no disrespect to our great lord. I am not refusing what he has given I am merely setting it aside till I feel I have earned more then he has already given me." he pauses,"Our great lord has already given me the gift of life, the gift of strength, the way of the hunt and the gift of his presence when I was a young Wemic. Your words are wise though and I will carry it for now" he smiles at Kenshia and gives a slight bow. With that he unwraps his blanket and then reverently wraps the amulet up in it then heads toward the door.
Turning again to look at Kenshia he adds,"I would pair up with you if you would have me"
Thiel Tuesday February 20th, 2001 5:36:18 PM
I will pair with Ceira. If she will travel with me.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday February 20th, 2001 11:06:22 PM
"It would be my pleasure to travel by your side Thiel." Ceira responds with a wink. She randomly waves goodbye to any of the support staff who are in the vicinity and then walks up next to Thiel. She extends her hand towards the minotaur to show him the newly acquired ring. "Isn't it just beatutiful?" she asks as she gazes at it lovingly.
Zeoll Tuesday February 20th, 2001 11:48:18 PM
Zeoll takes his place in the second rank.
"I have neverr been to the isle of the centaurrs," he says, "but I look forrward to seeing its beauties as we sprread the good news of Tomi's wishes for all Taurrs to be as one kindrred."
"Let's go!"
Weeeeeee're OFF to See the Vineyard..! (DM Donna) Wednesday February 21st, 2001 6:53:03 AM
Hollyhocks leads the party along the landbridge that leads to Centaur Island. The trip is enlightening, because the party meets up with a pair of centaurs--one young and one a good bit older--who inform the party that they feel motivated by some force to go to the new island to offer their services as a guard and as a groundskeeper. They are eager to get to Hearthold.
The party soon after arrives at Fort Stag on Centaur Island. The centaur city is made up of artfully manicured and lovingly tended whistal trees, grown so that there are hollows within the living buildings for the natives to work and dwell in.
Many of the centaurs that are busy going about their daily routines stop and stare at your integrated party. Most of them blink and go on about their business, though some of them point at the non-centaurs and whisper. A few of them even scowl at the sight of the minotaurs. A stomp and glance from Hollyhocks dismisses these particular citizens, though. Soon the temple assistant stops at a main intersection of the street.
"Here I must leave you," he says, "For my duties at the Clearspring Temple call. Continue along this street here until you reach the Furmosa Bakery, then turn left and follow that road to the Surefoot Family Vineyards. Ask to see Silkshanks, and tell them that Hollyhocks sent you." With this, the centaur druid starts to trot off, leaving you to continue your latest adventure by yourselves.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday February 21st, 2001 8:10:00 AM
A certain nervousness can be seen in Ceira's eyes as she navigates through the streets. Most likely due to the mass centaur population that surrounds her. A faint rumble can be heard from Ceira's stomach. "Didn't Hollyhocks mention something about bakery? I guess I didn't eat enough breakfast. I wonder what centaurian pastries are like?" she asks as she distracts herself from their uncomfortable surroundings.
Flat-top on the Road Wednesday February 21st, 2001 10:50:30 AM
Flattop listens to the direction and mumbles to himself*follow street to bakery, then left to vineyards. * "OK! We got it, Please! Your blessings on us all." After receiving the blessing, they start off to the bakery. Flat-top stops and ask Kale if he wanted anything in the Bakery. Flat-top ask the baker for nine Sugared Hooves. Pays the baker. Then gave one to all members of the party, "These are my favorites, enjoy." Flat-top get in line again and whispers to Kale, " I hope someday I get to tast Minotaurs Baking. I bet that they have some good Cream Horns."
Kenisha (the centaur) Wednesday February 21st, 2001 11:02:45 AM
Kenisha mumbles without thinking between delicious bites, "Nope, they're jelly-filled." Licking her fingers she looks over at Kalon, "What kind of treats do wemics indulge in?"
Leets Wednesday February 21st, 2001 12:17:10 PM
Leets trots along in the back of the group, looking all around him, following carefully his fellows not to lose them. He's quite amazed by the whistal trees, far bigger than the ones in his hometown. He eats his Sugar Hoof with delight:
"Thanks Flat-Top! It was a long time I hadn't eaten such a good pastry! Reminds me of home..."
He tries to look over the crowd, standing on his back hooves.
"Theorically, the vineyard should be in this street, no?"
thiel Wednesday February 21st, 2001 2:00:07 PM
Wolfs down his pastry and then says quietly to ceira that that was only a tease and he is now truly hungry. Thiel calls out to Flat top are you sure you know where you are going? Not that you would ever get lost. I just feel like we should have arrived by now.
Kale Wednesday February 21st, 2001 6:46:01 PM
"No thanks." Kale says to Flat-Top. "You should never eat while on the job. It gives you a sour stomache."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday February 21st, 2001 7:21:18 PM
Kalon ponders Kenshia's question for a moment before answering,"Well you must understand my family did not have alot of extra. We weren't poor but we were not rich either. Things like this," he holds up the sugar hoof," these things were a luxury in my family. I don't know what kind of treats other wemics might have but my mother made a fine fish and vegetable pie. Also on the day of my birth each year in late summer she would make a pie with all the fresh fruits available and add honey to make it sweet. That was really good" he looks wistful,"I have not been home for that in the last couple of years"
Zeoll Thursday February 22nd, 2001 12:14:23 AM
Zeoll never enjoyed sweets like this before. He grew up, he explains, away from the coasts of the isle that the wemics have adopted as home. In the interior, hewing to the traditional ways, there are no bakeries or shops. As the pride follows the herds, there is no way to carry ovens around with them!
"We bake our flatbrreads on hot firrestones," the liontaur said, "and we sweeten them sometimes with wild honey."
A little abashed at his nomad roots, Zeoll changes the course of the conversation. "Come all, we have a mission!" And he leads the group forward, in the direction Hollyhocks indicated.
The Surefoot Family Vineyards
We're Here..! (DM Donna) Thursday February 22nd, 2001 7:01:35 AM
Following Hollyhocks' directions, the party manages to get (and enjoy) some treats from the bakery, and then travel along the road, getting much the same reaction from passers-by as they had when accompanied by the temple assistant, though none of the local centaurs seem to feel that the party must be confronted. Thus do you all follow the road without incident.
The road itself ends after a while at the fancily-carved wooden gates that stand closed. Over the gates is an equally fancy, carved wooden sign that proclaims in gilded letters:
SUREFOOT FAMILY VINEYARDS Fine Wines since the Second Year of the Frog
The road continues beyond the gates. There is nobody in the way of a guard or even a guardhouse in this area...at least, not so you can SEE them...
Flat-top (Vineyards) Thursday February 22nd, 2001 10:42:53 AM
"Here we are and I don't see anybody around?" said Flat-top. "I think we should have somebody that can sweet talk another Centaur, like a Centaur Paladin. You, Kale, are much too good looking for all these females around here." Flat-top Yell toward the back (not really looking where Leets is) of the rank and file. "Come on Leets, get up front here and turn on your charms."
Leets Thursday February 22nd, 2001 11:24:02 AM
The young Paladin clears his voice while coming front of the group, he moves forward calmly, beyond the gates. He looks around him while still going forward slowly, and clearly announces:
"We are the Taurs, coming from the Hearthold to bring help to the Surefoot Vineyard, following the will of the Druid Hollyhocks! We would like to talk to the master of this place!"
Kale Thursday February 22nd, 2001 7:45:34 PM
"It looks deserted to me." Kale says. "I think we should just walk in."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday February 22nd, 2001 8:32:35 PM
Kalon follows the group closely still nibbling at the food that was given to him. Then abruptly after finishing half of it stops placing it in his backpack. Looking around he enjoys the beauty of the vineyards as he follows the group.
Zeoll Friday February 23rd, 2001 1:18:18 AM
Zeoll smiles at Leets's words. "Well spoken, young paladin," he says. "If no one answerrs, yourr call, let us continue to advance, and you can sound out again."
Ceira Karwyn Friday February 23rd, 2001 1:22:35 AM
Momentarily lost in thought, Ceira stares lovingly at the beautiful vineyards where one of life's enjoyments are manufactured. "Wow, look at all the wines... I mean... vines." she mutters to herself. Shaking out of her thirsty trance, she awaits a response from Leet's introduction.
Kenisha Friday February 23rd, 2001 1:32:16 AM
Kenisha smiles at Kalon and waits to see if there is any response from the vineyard.
The Sound of Silence (DM Donna) Friday February 23rd, 2001 7:39:23 AM
Nobody replies to Leets' greeting.
The breeze wafts the heady scent of fresh vines of the field towards the party. Birds sing. Insects buzz. The sun shines. The gate remains closed until somebody opens it to go through it onto the Surefoot property.
(OOC: I'm sending you a map of the property via email.)
Flat-top (Vineyard) Friday February 23rd, 2001 10:49:50 AM
As Leets comes to the front, Flat-top look around and listens to birds and the bees nothing out of the ordinary. Flat-top smells the wind. nothing. "I don't like this, Kale. No body around, as if....."
Leets Friday February 23rd, 2001 4:04:27 PM
Leets looks at a couple of birds singing on a branch while listening to Flat-Top.
"...As if people were afraid of coming here...I have not been visiting many haunted places my friend, but I don't think it would look like that if this was one..."
Leets pushes on the gates to check if it is opened or not.
Kalon the Wemic Friday February 23rd, 2001 4:18:34 PM
Kalon continues to walk forward as he says,"It's still daytime maybe people are working in the other parts of the vineyard. Naybe we should just go to one of the buildings and see if we can find anyone." he starts to turn toward the nearest building.
Ceira Karwyn Friday February 23rd, 2001 7:31:34 PM
Ceira worms her way to the front of the group to get a better look at what's beyond the gates. "I suggest exploring the second building on our right. The first one has beautiful architecture whereas the second one has a more professional look to it. My guess is the first one is the Surefoot Family home and the second is their business building. It would be more proper if we announced ourselves at the business-like building rather than their personal home. And as Kalon has speculated, maybe they are all at work inside."
Kenisha Saturday February 24th, 2001 1:28:24 AM
"I agree, the second building is probably our best bet." Kenisha said as she watched Leets test the gates.
Thiel Saturday February 24th, 2001 8:43:02 PM
Uneasy at not seeing any.. any activty at all and begins to finger his hol;y symbol. " perhaps they are all drunk on there work "
Leets Monday February 26th, 2001 4:40:21 AM
"Perhaps Thiel, perhaps not..."
The young centaur paladin pushes on the gates, and walks beyond slowly. Leets stops, closes his eyes, he feels the breeze on his face and listens at the birds singing. Slowly, all sounds and feelings mentally disappear as he concentrates and focuses on the place and the magic flows that are around him.
(OOC: Detect Evil)
"By the Pricking of My Thumbs"...? (DM Donna) Monday February 26th, 2001 7:17:51 AM
Leets uses his innate ability to Detect Evil--and his feelings do not seem to indicate its presence. As he slowly advances through the gate that he was easily able to push open, his awareness extends deeper into the area...
...and does not change. No evil...yet.
However, a few yards down the road is another sign, apparently this one has directions on it, for it says:
SUREFOOT FAMILY VINEYARDS Tasting Showroom - first right Administration Office - second right Production Facilities - third right
There are some sounds from the fields on the left, but they seem to indicate that there are about a couple dozen people tending the vines.
Everyone in the party must make a Listen check and a Spot check versus DC 15.
Kale d20=19 d20=17 Monday February 26th, 2001 9:37:56 AM
Kale starts to move in the direction of the admisistration office when suddenly he freezes(made spot and listen check) he motions everyone to stop with a wave of his hand and he slowly unslings the shortbow across his shoulder, knocking an arrow in it.
Flat-top d20+1=18 d20+1=9 Monday February 26th, 2001 11:21:19 AM
"All right them we go to the second building," said Flat-top then follows Sir Leet through the gates and beside Kale. When Flat-top hears some noise, out of the corner of his eye, sees Kale reacts to something. "HOLD it, Taurs, we may have a problem on our hands." Flat-top will take his Mace from around his neck and his shield from his back. Now Flat-top (not seeing anything) will take his que from Kale, "Well, MR. Pretty Face, you haven't been wrong yet, let's go and see. I'm right with you."said Flat-top.
Kenisha d20+2=14 d20+3=22 Monday February 26th, 2001 1:02:09 PM
Kenisha readies her sling at Flat-top'[s suggestion and looks around.
Kalon the Wemic d20=13 d20+1=11 Monday February 26th, 2001 4:10:24 PM
Having managed to get abit ahead of the rest of the group Kalon continues toward the nearest building unaware of what's going on behind.
Thiel Monday February 26th, 2001 8:22:16 PM
thiel pulls off his holy sembol ready to turn any undeadthat may be around. he quietly follows leets through the gate
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=14 d20+1=4 Monday February 26th, 2001 10:31:09 PM
"What's wrong everybody?" Ceira asks. Since she didn't detect anything unusual, she figures that maybe the group is experiencing a sugar rush from the centaur pastries.
Disregarding their unusual reactions, she proceeds to walk up to the sign and exclaims, "Ah ha! I was right about the office-looking building. I guess I misjudged that nice house on our first right. Its architecture is certainly fitting for a showroom though. It says here that the Administration Offices are to our second right. We should definitely head there first. If they have any centaur security guards," Ceira pauses and shudders at the thought. "then we'd better let them know we'll be running around. The last thing we need is to have them beating us to a bloody pulp for--" she stops mid-sentence and corrects herself. "I mean... physically restraining us for tresspassing." she quietly scurries ahead hoping none of her centaur friends heard her.
Zeoll d20+3=17 d20+4=24 Monday February 26th, 2001 11:29:18 PM
[OOC: I made the listen check by 2 and the spot roll by 9! woo hoo!]
After walking along quietly, Zeoll's hunter instincts kick in. His leonine senses, on the knife's edge of keenness, alert him to sensory clues that most would miss. He is ready for anything.
Sounds and Sights (DM Donna) Tuesday February 27th, 2001 7:24:29 AM
Those who make their Listen check can hear an argument from amongst the vines--the subject of which happens to be the fact that at least two of the unseen arguers don't think it's worth staying around and working the vines since the vineyard's become haunted. One of the arguers tells the others to shut their fool mouths, but another voice confirms that "there just HAS to be ghosties about, what with them phantom lights an' all..." (OOC: this is in Centaur, so that only those who know Centaur can understand the subject.)
Those who make their Spot checks see a lone figure approaching them. It trots along the road, apparently having come from either the offices or the bottling building.
It's a tan-colored centaur, holding what looks like a clipboard in one hand and a writing implement in the other. It's a male centaur, wearing a pair of round spectacles. Just as it gets within ten feet of the party, the centaur looks up--and spots Kale the minotaur pointing a bow and arrow his way.
His eyes bulge out in shock and surprise, and two things happen simultaneously:
His hands shoot up into the air, letting the clipboard and the pen fall to the ground as he immediately signals his surrender. He also loses control of his bowels.
"AllthemoneyisinthehouseIonlyworkhereI'mreallyVERYpoorohpleasedon'tkillmepleasepleasepleaseplease..!" he babbles incoherently.
Leets Tuesday February 27th, 2001 9:16:08 AM
"Ohohoh!"
Leets moves forward, putting his hand on kale's arm to lower his weapon.
"We are coming from the Hearthold. The druid Holyhocks wanted us to come here to make this ghost problem clear..."
Leets offers his hand with a smile.
"I'm Leets, and here are my friends...Please excuse Kale, he is a good fellow, but we all are a little bit nervous..."
Flat-top Tuesday February 27th, 2001 10:25:16 AM
Flat-top tells Kale,"If battle were always this easy. One look at you and they surrender. But I'm sure he's not the problem. Not right now ?" Then turns to the rest of the party,Flat-top tell them,"We suprized a worker and even I cannot understand him. Maybe one of you Taurs can get information out of him. OH! be careful don't step in any Road Apples."
Kale Tuesday February 27th, 2001 4:51:48 PM
Kale lowers his arm, but gives Leets a dirty look. "Dont do that again." he whispers to him
Thiel Tuesday February 27th, 2001 7:29:54 PM
Thiel Has been completlyn absobed in his own thoughts and was unable to be aware of anything around him' He is almost as suprised as the tan that has just been mugged by kale. Thiel stiffles a laugh and then offers " We are not to be feared we are quested to bring peace to our races and to unit all the races under one banner. we really only wish to help. could you possibly help us in understanding the nature of your haunting and where they appear most ."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday February 27th, 2001 7:34:54 PM
Kalon turns toward the centaur and seeing Kale's weapon in hand,"No need for that Kale we are here as friends and allies." he turns to look at the frightened centaur,"Greetings good centaur there is no need to fear us we mean you no harm. Kale is just about overtense perhaps worried about the tales of hauntings we have heard. I am Kalon and I am pleased to meet you." Kalon moves to pick up the clipboard and pen the centaur dropped and hand them back to him.
Zeoll Tuesday February 27th, 2001 7:57:51 PM
Zeoll, seeing that the centaur with the clipboard is being well-tended, walks quietly up on the place from which the argument derives. He tries to listen as he walks. The liontaur makes no effort to conceal himself, however -- don't get the idea that he is sneaking.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday February 27th, 2001 10:52:11 PM
Although a bit shocked by the centaur's sudden appearance, Ceira relaxes again. "Typical foolish centaur." she mutters under her breath. "Please announce yourself next time. You almost got your head lopped off by our friend Kale here. Well... I suppose we are also at fault for barging in without announcing ourselves. Please accept our humble apologies." Ceira bows slightly.
After listening to a few of her companion's comments, she interjects, "What is this haunting you all speak of? Surely it's just some wild rumor spread by a competitor in the wine business." Turning back to the frightened centaur, she smiles as she awaits what he has to say.
Kenisha Wednesday February 28th, 2001 1:49:22 AM
Kenisha remains silent as anything she says would be redundant. She does however take the stone from her sling before looping the sling back through her belt.
Ah, ha! (DM Donna) d20=9 d20=14 d20=19 Wednesday February 28th, 2001 7:22:47 AM
The tan centaur, hearing the different yet corroborating explanations from the various party members, very slowly puts his hands down, flushing a bit in embarassment as he takes a tentative step forward, then uses his rear hooves to kick some dirt over the evidence on the road of his extreme fear.
"Oh. Oh, well..." he says, clearing his throat and speaking in Tauric, "...I am Browser...I am the head accountant for the vineyard. I recall Silky saying something about help being sent from the Temple...if you are that help, I can take you to her."
Meanwhile, Zeoll--who's moved a bit away from the party and towards the fields, makes his way a bit into the well-tended and very healthy vines, coming upon a trio of centaurs who are arguing amongst themselves. The centaur with the white hide snorts and looks aggreived from the face of a large dark brown centaur to a smaller, black and white centaur. The argument seems to be between the white centaur and the brown one, with the small centaur apparently trying to appease the both of them.
At Zeoll's approach, however, the brown and the small centaurs shut up and whirl around to face the wemic; surprise on the brown one's face and something that painfully resembles panic on the smaller centaur's expression. The brown centaur sets himself at a stance that Zeoll can tell means that he is ready to charge if need be, and demands something of Zeoll in a belligerent tone.
(OOC: they are speaking in straight centaur, however, and Zeoll doesn't know Centaur.)
Kale Wednesday February 28th, 2001 8:36:35 AM
"Then take us there, and be quick about it. " Kale says
Leets Wednesday February 28th, 2001 8:51:59 AM
The young paladin bears Kale's glance and his own gaze turns very cold as he clearly answers. "I really hope I won't have to, my friend, or it will mean that you tend to do too much mistakes..."
Feeling a little bit sad because of this argument, Leets faces the head accountant of the vineyard.
"We will gladly accept your own help Browser, could you please lead us to Lady Silky?"
Flat-top d20+1=14 Wednesday February 28th, 2001 11:15:57 AM
(OOC:fail listen roll)
"Well at less we will talk to someone in charge" Said Flat-top putting his mace back around his neck and his shield slip to his back. Then bows, smiles and in poor french says to to Kale," Apree Vou Monsure Taur Kale."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday February 28th, 2001 3:36:24 PM
Kalon awaits the centaur to go and then follows along with the group continuing to enjoy the scenary. "You know Kenshia I have never been in a vineyard it is very pleasant"
Thiel Wednesday February 28th, 2001 7:22:20 PM
Perhaps we could sample some of your vinyards grapes or better yet their product as we tour hthe vinyard.
Zeoll Wednesday February 28th, 2001 9:34:21 PM
Zeoll spreads his empty hands wide and says in Taur, "In Domi's name, grreetings. I am sorrry to disturrb you. We werre sent by Domi's prriest, Hollyhocks, to help."
Ceira Karwyn Thursday March 1st, 2001 12:42:49 AM
Ceira follows Leet's lead in silent acknowledgement. While trotting along, she hums an old Wemic song to herself as she grooms her mane in preparation for Silky.
Kenisha Thursday March 1st, 2001 12:53:12 AM
"Neither have I." Kenisha answers Kalon. "My aunt taught me how to make wine from wild grapes."
Browser Cooperates (DM Donna) d20=20 Thursday March 1st, 2001 7:35:26 AM
The bespectacled centaur retrieves his writing implements, attempting to recover some of his dignity at the same time.
"Um...yes...well...this way, then..." he says, turning around (and giving a WIDE berth to the recently-buried "road apples"). Then he swivels his head around.
"Sayyyyy..." Browser drawls, "...wasn't there one more of you? One of them lion-thingies..?"
OOOOO--looks like Zeoll's wandered off!
Centaur Confrontation (DM Donna) d20=7 d20=3 d20=18 Thursday March 1st, 2001 7:53:26 AM
The large brown centaur eyes Zeoll, suspiciously, looking as though he's going to charge the wemic. The smaller centaur is practically cowering behind the larger one.
"Stop it now, Fenwick!" the white-hided centaur says sharply in Tauric. "It's a lion-taur...a wemic, if I got the name right...and *I* believe him."
"You're a fool, then, Clover." growls the brown centaur, but he steps back and crosses his arms over his chest. "This creature is little better than a minotaur."
"This creature--" echoes Clover (the white centaur, of course,) "--bears the holy symbol of our patron deity, and deserves at least a little respect." Clover faces Zeoll and bows his head.
"Wemic, I heard that Silky was importing some kind of help to investigate the stuff around here." Clover tells him. "I hadn't realized that she managed to get help from such exotic sources. I think you'll find Silky over at the office building...she's usually going over stuff with Browser from accounting."
Zeoll Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:08:33 AM
Zeoll bows low in return. "Forrgive me forr not intrroducing myself," he says, "I am Zeoll, Student to Shaman Frrith, Warrriorr to Prride Nonowla, and Son to Clan Aene. I am indeed a liontaurr, and I and my frriends -- all loyal and devoted to Domi -- arre herre to help with yourr haunting prroblem."
"Thank you forr yourr guidance; I will seek out Silky and Brrowserr momentarrily. But can you tell me anything about yourr prroblem? Is the vinerry haunted? Why do you think so? What have you seen orr hearrd? Wherre?"
Pausing for a moment, Zeoll adds, "I hope you don't mind these questions. We only want to help"
Kale Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:57:56 AM
"He'll be all right." Kale says to the accountant. "He's probably just hungry and went looking for a centaur to snack on."
Flat-top Thursday March 1st, 2001 11:33:05 AM
"No I don't think so. Centaurs don't like Wemics. You go with the party and I'll go looking for Zeoll." Flat-top Tells Kale. Then turns and galop off to find the Druid Taur.
Leets Thursday March 1st, 2001 3:43:49 PM
Leets looks at Flat-Top trotting away to find Zeoll, and then asks Browser:
"Tell me, Browser, you seem to work "on the ground", so you should be aware of anything special happening in the vineyard...What's about this ghost story?"
Kalon the Wemic Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:22:02 PM
Slowing back to step beside Kenisha Kalon leans in and whispers to her,"So what do you think about the idea this vineyard is haunted?"
Ceira Karwyn Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:46:50 PM
Ceira's casual humming stops abruptly. With all the persistent discussion of the rumored hauntings, a worried look emerges on her face. She has been successful in ignoring the speculation thus far but as they progress deeper into this mission, the realization is becoming all too real. Ceira remains silent and listens intently to hear how Browser answers Leets question.
Thiel Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:54:04 PM
"I'm hungry. Adrink would be nice as well"
Kenisha Friday March 2nd, 2001 1:15:05 AM
Keeping her voice just as low, Kenisha replies to Kalon, "It is possible, but it could easily also be some sort of trick by a competitor or mass histeria on the part of the workers here. I'm going to reserve my opinion until after we find out more about what's happening."
Browser's Dialogue (DM Donna) d20=14 Friday March 2nd, 2001 8:41:25 AM
"I'm an accountant, NOT a bard!" snorts the educated-looking centaur as he resumes the way towards the office building. "Haunted? Ha! I can tell you nothing of haunting--facts and figures, now that's MY forte!
"The numbers just aren't adding up...it's SO odd!" he says, almost more to himself than to you. "Profits are down...some of the workers have left, but that doesn't explain the shortages...or the inventory that has gone missing, either. That part has been happening over the last quarter...the stupid 'haunted grove' rumors have only been circulating for this past week or so."
Clover's Dialogue d20=18 Friday March 2nd, 2001 8:54:50 AM
Flat-top manages to hear the conversation between Zeoll and Clover & company, and follows the sound to its source, emerging beside the wemic just as Clover addresses Zeoll's questions:
"Well...me and my cousin are in the Surefoot herd, and we been working in the vineyard about a couple years now. There's always been that old family story about the Arch Grotto ghost...but I never put much stock in it myself. My cousin works the night watch, though--says that she saw a bright flash of light over that way a couple or three nights ago. Ever since then, really weird stuff's been going on around here...and last night, Firehoof says she saw something that just up and made her quit! Won't tell ME what it is, though."
Flat-top (in the Vineyard) Friday March 2nd, 2001 10:48:46 AM
Flat-top follows the sound and comes to stand beside Zeoll, putting his hand on the mace around his neck (to indicate no fights) " Ah! There you are Taur Zeoll, and a GOOD DAY to you TAUR workers?". Then turns to Zeoll and tell him,"I heard what was said, very interesting... Would have like to talk to Taur Firehoof, but she's not here. Hmm! But we are needed at the office, Taur Zeoll." Flat-top waits for Zeol to walk ahead of him. Then will walk beside him.
Kale d20+1=19 Saturday March 3rd, 2001 9:36:05 AM
Kale walks along with the others, but is taking in his surroundings with care, looking for places of ambush(spot check of 19)
Kalon the Wemic Sunday March 4th, 2001 12:37:36 AM
Kalon continues to walk alongside Kenisha,"Yes, I don't doubt that it could be haunted but I think we should just not rule out that possibility instead of deciding it is true before we do any investigation. Some people can be so superstitious" he whispers back,"and not so quick to draw their weapons" he says in a slightly louder voice obviously intending it for Kale to hear
Leets Sunday March 4th, 2001 6:46:22 AM
Leets trots along with Browser and Thiel. He nods at Thiel speaking of the inventory missing.
"No facts nor figures...Well, that won't help us...Perhaps Silky will be able to tell us more about those missings..."
Kenisha Sunday March 4th, 2001 10:57:19 AM
Kenisha snickers behind her hand, but tells Kalon, "Ah but you weren't there for the giant worm-like creatures, good friend. Sometimes being quick with the sword is a good thing."
Ceira Karwyn Sunday March 4th, 2001 9:20:18 PM
'Maybe this place isn't haunted afterall.' Ceira wonders. "Giant worm creatures Kenisha? Eeewww." she replies with a slightly contorted facial expression. "Just how big were they? Actually... nevermind. "We have a task here to focus on. Perhaps you can share some of your 'tails of adventure' over some spiced wine back home when our task is completed." Ceira grins hoping she caught the pun.
"Excuse me Browser. You said these rumors started flying around about a week ago. What were some of the observations that led to these conclusions? Perhaps these sightings are linked to the shortages and missing inventory you mentioned? Anything is a potential clue here."
Zeoll Monday March 5th, 2001 1:03:55 AM
Zeoll briefly asks a few more questions -- Where is this Arch Grotto, what's the legend, where might he find Firehoof -- then walks with Flat-top to rejoin the party.
Together Again (DM Donna) Monday March 5th, 2001 7:27:57 AM
"If you follow the main road all the way to its end," Clover says to Zeoll and Flat-top, "You'll find the Grotto there--it's a pretty place, kind of a peaceful sanctuary, really...it's got this old wooden archway that marks it...that's how it got the name."
Clover leads Zeoll and Flat-top to the road, where they meet up with the rest of the party. The white-hided centaur returns to his job in the fields when Browser assures the laborer that he will take the party to meet Silkshanks.
"Firehoof works third shift--she's a guard." Clover says as he departs. Even as he goes back to the fields, though, the party hears the clatter of departing hoofbeats and sees a pair of centaurs galloping out of the vineyard. Flat-top and Zeoll recognize them as the two centaurs that had been with Clover.
"Hmmph! Cowards!" Browser snorts, his tail twitching in irritation and one of his hooves stomping on the ground. "It's been like that for the last three or four days--workers quitting or just up and leaving! Take Firehoof, for instance--while it's true that she WAS a guard, she, too, quit...although she at least had the decency to do so in person, rather than simply run away like THOSE two!" The accountant sighs sharply.
"All right, then...follow me." So saying, the centaur trots along to the office building...
Silkshanks Surefoot...& Company..! (DM Donna) Monday March 5th, 2001 7:50:23 AM
"Anyhow," Browser says conversationally as he moves down the road and takes the second right, "The inventory that's missing is wine, of course. Tuns and tuns of it. Even allowing for the recent ghost story scare and employee turnover, there's no logical reason why we should be coming up twenty tuns short of our sacred Blue wine! I keep a sharp eye on ALL the numbers--it's my responsibility as the head accountant. It makes no sense whatsoever that the wine just...disappears."
Browser leads the party into the whishtal tree that houses the administative branch of the vineyard. He takes you past the startled receptionist and directly over to a large, carved wooden portal that has "Silkshanks Surefoot, President" in bold relief on it. The accountant knocks and opens the door upon hearing a female voice bid him to enter.
"Silky," Browser announces, "There's a party of...people here to see you--they say that Hollyhocks sent them."
You all see a medium-sized, matronly centaur female with a light brown hide, darker brown skin and black hair and eyes look at you and smile slightly, nodding.
"Please, come in and make yourselves comfortable." Silky says politely. "That will be all for now, Browser." The accountant exits.
"I have someone whom I believe is supposed to be with you..." Silky tells you, waving one hand in the direction of...a figure wearing studded leather armor and bearing a large wooden shield emblazoned with the sign of the God of War on it--a pair of crossed swords.
"Imagine my surprise when there suddenly appeared in the corner of my office a Minotaur." Silky says wryly. "I almost wet myself. He just appeared there, asleep. He woke up all of a sudden and held up his shield--and I just KNEW he was here to help me. Don't ask me how."
Indeed, when all of you see the shield, you all get a sense that this minotaur is here to be part of your overall objective of uniting the Taur races. There can be NO doubt...it was Domi/Imod/Tomi's hand that brought your fellow Taur here.
"I have purple wine and moonbuns for all," Silky tells you, gesturing to a huge tray that has large goblets, a pair of hefty decanters and an assortment of light breakfast rolls upon it. "I do believe introductions are in order, so help yourselves while you get acquainted."
Flat-top Monday March 5th, 2001 11:20:50 AM
"By all that is holy, only a chosen one enters like that" said Flat-top with a smile. As the piebald hide,dark skin,white (hair/mane/tail) and ice-ble eyes (that seems to look right through you). "Greeting and welcome to our party. They call me Flat-top, I'm a military Centaur, and glad to see another Fighter," said Flat-top as he puts away his mace around his neck and extend his hand to greet the new comer. Then turns to Kale and tells him,"Don't worry I still love you best," and Flat-top winks at him.
Kenisha (the centaur sorceress) Monday March 5th, 2001 1:30:33 PM
Kenisha shakes her head at Flat-top's actics but follows him in introducing herself (in Minotaur). "How do you do, fellow Taur. I am Kenisha, trained in the magical arts."
Kalon the Wemic Monday March 5th, 2001 3:25:40 PM
Kalon steps forward extending a upperpaw toward the large minotaur,"I am called Kalon and I am pleased to meet you. My but you certainly are a formidable looking fellow"
Raorr the Minotaur Monday March 5th, 2001 3:54:41 PM
The (7' 8", 750lbs approx.) minotaur stands slightly hunched, looks warily at the strange group entering the room. He lowers his Spiked Gauntleted right hand to his Bastard sword's hilt but stops noting the outnumbering odds he faces.
He looks at Flat Top's outstreched hand and appears to considering the gesture. He hesiatingly clasps the hand, but once held he hold's on hard, and leans towards the Centaur called Flat-top. An expression of savageness in his eyes.
"Rrraaaoooorrrrrr" He bellows at the top of his lungs, it quite possibly may reverbate the glass of the door and anyone still outside the door would hear it.
Raorr releases his grip on the Flat-Top and looks at the Centaur Kenisha and considers what to make of her. Raorr's face contorts to a angered expression "[Minotauric]You speak my language. But why? You Centaur, are you spy, sent to use magic against Minotaurs? Perhaps you Witch" A twinkle in his eyes and his facial expression changes and relaxesd "(Tauric)Raorr stay with you. Raorr in The Dream. I travel with all you."
Raorr doesn't shake anymore hands as he seems defensive about so many people at once near by. He does spot the Minotaurs and seems almost confused by their apparent minority amongst the group present.
(OOC) Raorr wears common travelling outfit, and as mentioned before is wearing Studded Leather has a pair of Spiked Gauntlets in his left hand carrries the Large Wooden Shield, and in a sheath on his left side has a Bastard Sword. Leaning on the wall beside him is a Glaive. He has three pouches on his belt. Laying on the ground beside him is a Saddlebag with a Waterskin hanging from it.
Leets (the centaur paladin) Monday March 5th, 2001 4:18:21 PM
The young paladin salutes the Minotaur newcomer by noding and smiling. He has been seeing too much savage minotaurs during his childhood to get closer. [Minotauric]" Don't worry, I am no spy, I speak your language because I was raised near the lands of your people. May you be welcome among us Raorr."
Leets is a young centaur(8.6 feet, 1440lbs), with blond hairs and a white body. He wears a silver colored chainmail on a blue tunic, and holds a sparkling large steel shield (that looks very new)on his left arm. He also has a longsword on his left side, and a staff tied on right side of his horse body. He finally has a backpack, with a small barrel tied under it.
Thiel Monday March 5th, 2001 9:14:11 PM
Thiel says to Raorr "Imods blessings on you And luck to die in battle. "
Ceira Karwyn (wemic sorceress) Tuesday March 6th, 2001 12:25:15 AM
"Good day Raorr." greets Ceira. "My name is Ceira Karwyn and it is a pleasure to have you join our merry band. Please, don't be too shy now." she says with a playful wink. "I am a dabbler of the arcane arts. We could certainly use your extra sword to aid in the greater good of our mission to unite all Taurs."
Ceira now walks over to grab a breakfast roll and begins nibbling away.
To Business... (DM Donna) Tuesday March 6th, 2001 7:33:04 AM
"Are we all introduced, then?" Silky says amiably in the common Tauric, looking to Zeoll and Kale, who have said nothing so far. "Well, let me tell you the reason that I asked for help from the Temple...perhaps this may contribute to your sense of...unified purpose." The filly flips her hair from her shoulder to her back.
"Four nights ago, the guards that secure the vineyards at night reported seeing a brief flash of light from the area that's called the Archway Grotto." she tells you. "When they went to investigate it, they found nothing unusual there. Ever since then, however...strange things have been happening. Odd things. Weird noises with no apparent cause...small items disappearing or simply being moved from one spot, only to appear moments later in another. All odd, to be sure, but the so-called 'ghost scare' comes from some of the guards claiming to have seen...a very large, um...purple monster flying about the vineyard.
"As of yesterday, three of the guards quit, claiming that they were NOT hired to be, ummm...'ghostbusters' (whatever THAT is!) Once the other workers heard that the guards were quitting, they, too, started leaving. At present I have only half the usual workforce to harvest this season's crops." Silky looks pleadingly at you.
"This year was going to be a most excellent year, ESPECIALLY for the Sacred Blue Wine distillation...but unless I can clear up exactly WHAT has my workers in such a fearful tizzy, the Temple will not get its usual tithe of wines...there may not be enough Blue Wine for that ordination ceremony that is coming up in a few days, even! Please...will you help me..?"
Zeoll Tuesday March 6th, 2001 7:35:16 AM
Zeoll, a liontaur (or wemic) walks over to Raorr. He wears leather armor and carries a greatsword and a longsword. There are totem and clan beads braided into his mane.
Sticking out his hand in welcome, he says, "It is good to have anotherr Taurr among us. Thanks to Imod for brringing you to us." His accent is strong, as he speaks the common Taur language, but he smiles in a friendly way.
Turning to Silky, Zeoll thanks her for the hospitality and promises to try to help.
Kale Tuesday March 6th, 2001 9:18:37 AM
Kale just stands there silently
A Moment of Silence (DM Jerry) Tuesday March 6th, 2001 10:50:00 AM
...and for a moment, all is silent in The Wold.
Flat-top Tuesday March 6th, 2001 4:06:24 PM
Flat-top walks over to Kale, "You know I'd like to go over to the Grotto, just to see this interesting place that spooks guards." Said Flat-top " are you as courious as I am?".
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday March 6th, 2001 7:35:11 PM
Kalon seeing the large minotaur's hesitancy turns to where the rolls are as Silky gives his explaination. Taking one of the rolls he breaks it carefully in half placing half in his backpack and slowly eating the other half.
"I will help as well" Kalon says to Silky,"I think that is a good idea to look over this grotto. I will come with you Flat-top" he adds to Flat-top"
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday March 6th, 2001 10:48:24 PM
Raorr snarls at the comment made by Thiel "To die in battle shows weakness, I will be happy to die Old and grey while my enemy rots in his grave."
Raorr grasps the Glaive leaning on the wall and says "Raorr will kill what ever Purple thing appears. Raorr cares not what it is, it will die all the same."
Holding his Glaive hard he glares to the Wemic Sorceress "Another witch, no matter I fear not your nor Kenisha's magics. Raorr will not be pushed around, Imod said to travel with you all, I do so for him."
Raorr bends his neck, popping sounds may be heard as joints are streched. He roars "Enough talk lets go! I am in need of some exercise"
Kenisha Wednesday March 7th, 2001 1:11:09 AM
Kenisha shrugs at Ceira and says in Tauric, "I can't imagine what we could have said to earn sure a response, but no doubt he will learn the truth. It does seem to be our Maker's way."
Turning to the others she adds, "Let's go, shall we?"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday March 7th, 2001 4:19:31 AM
"Muph wuh shul..." With the breakfast roll still stuffed in her mouth, Ceira only smiles back at her measily attempt to talk and nods in agreement.
She gestures to Silky with an 'OK' sign to indicate Silky is in good hands.
*GULP*
Hasta La Vista! (DM Donna) Wednesday March 7th, 2001 8:53:01 AM
"Thank you...all of you!" Silky says, smiling. "I've already informed my foreman, Tailthwacker, to let the workers that are still here know that they are to cooperate with you in any way. You can speak to anyone you wish, and go anywhere you feel you need to without worrying about whether anyone on the grounds will object." The president of the Vineyards pauses a moment, thinking for a bit.
"When you exit the offices, you follow the pathway out to the main road, turn right towards the bottling facilities, and follow the road until it ends. There you will find two ways to go on...turn right or turn left. Turning right leads you to the bottling building. Turning left will lead you to the Archway Grotto." Her eyes search your faces.
"Any other questions..?"
Zeoll Wednesday March 7th, 2001 9:39:08 AM
Zeoll catches Silky's eye and introduces himself, if he hasn't already.
"If ourr enthusiastic new frriend can be patient forr just a minute morre," he says, bowing to Raorr, "let me ask you a question orr two."
"Please descrribe forr us in grreaterr detail the signs and manifestations that have been rreporrted. What disappearrred and rreappearrred? What kinds of noises?"
"We must considerr that these may indeed be the rresult of superrnaturral activity. They may be omens and augerrs that rreveal trruths to those who can rread them. Have you had any unusual drreams lately?"
"But we must also considerr that these signs could also be rruses by someone hostile to you, Silky. The missing wine suggests that theft is the prrobable motive. Could you give us a list of worrkerrs who have quit rrecently? They arre possible suspects."
Turning to the entire grroup, Zeoll outlines his thoughts.
"Firrst, if therre is something superrnaturral going on, we need to discoverr what. We should: One - investigate this grrotto. Two - stay therre overrnight, with some asleep to see what trruths come frrom theirr drreams therre. Thrree - use whateverr detection and divination magic we have to seek out magical influences."
"Second, if therre is a mundane and merrcenarry cause, if theft is the motive. then we must: One - Searrch forr physical clues. In moving tuns of wine, some sign may have been left. We need to use Trracking and Searrching skills to look forr signs like scuff marrks, trracks, spills, especially wherre therre should be none. Two - We need someone with Sense Motive skill to question all worrkerrs -- both those who have left and those who haven't -- to see if anyone is suspicious. Thrree -- We need a Centaurr with Gatherr Info skill to nose about town. If therre was a theft, someone has to fence, storre, orr trransporrt tuns of wine, and therre will be clues in the community that a savvy investigatorr can discoverr."
"As a prriest of ourr common god, I myself would be good at the superrnaturral investigation, and I would be good at looking forr clues with my Trracking skill. Who else can contrribute, and how?"
"And should we all stick togetherr orr split into grroups of two orr thrree?"
Kale Wednesday March 7th, 2001 9:48:21 AM
"Sure, lets go." Kale says to Flat-Top, then he whispers to him. "That guy needs to work on his Taur." Kale says pointing at Raorr. "He gives us bulls a bad name." then he says in a loud voice "We stay together. Some of us are new and I dont trust their abliltes to take care of themselves yet. I dont want to explain to Imod that some of his chosen are dead."
Kenisha Wednesday March 7th, 2001 10:38:40 AM
Kenisha states, "I am have been taught to recognized things of an arcane nature. I would assume that Ceira also has this skill? It probably would be best if we split into two groups- one to investigate the Grotto and the other to investigate here and in town if necessary."
Flat-top Wednesday March 7th, 2001 11:06:11 AM
"yes,Kale, I was wondering about him myself," said Flat-top, "he does need to work on the Taur skills." Then as an after thought, added "I realty want to see this flying purple thing. Hmmm Do you think you can handle the bull headed fighter? I know I won't be able to."
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday March 7th, 2001 1:28:06 PM
"To many words!" Raorr shakes his head, "Raorr kill, kill and help."
Raorr lowers head as if looking for somethng below another twinkle crosses his eyes again he speaks but quieter "Raorr, not wise. Raorr not read." his head lowered still shaking "Raorr not good with people. Raorr called Wild One by others. Others made fun of Raorr, Raorr run away to forest to be free."
He raises his head, the violent expression returning "Too many words!" He snarls "We fight enemy, right!" Alternating his grip on the Glaive by tightening and relaxing, he stomps the ground with a hoof. "Raorr have no skills other than fight, Raorr will kill, you will live. This Raorr do for group."
Leets Wednesday March 7th, 2001 3:04:35 PM
The young centaur trot to Zeoll.
"Perhaps could I assist you my friend if you were meeting any trouble during your supernatural investigation...If you think you can deal with that alone, I could probably take in charge our new friend to patrol in the vineyard..After all, I agree with him: we have the strength, the steel, and the faith, I don't need more to face our ghost..."
Leets waits for Zeoll's answer, to know what he will do.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday March 7th, 2001 7:08:38 PM
Kalon listens to the group deciding on the way they want to investigate the situation. As Zeol goes through his list of things to do Kalon doesn't hear anything he can do. So waits to receive instructions as to what he will be doing.
Thiel Wednesday March 7th, 2001 8:40:47 PM
Thiel says to Leets and Zeoll, "I have no doubts of your strengths, but I have belief in facing what you know on equal terms. But what you don't know often can kill. I think I must go with Kale - we should stay together."
Answers & Friendly Advice (DM Donna) Thursday March 8th, 2001 7:12:12 AM
Silky's head tilts as she considers Zeoll's numerous questions and proposals. Then she replies for all to hear:
"I've been told of incidents ranging from 'ghostly whispering and giggling' to items such as baskets and hoes disappearing from one spot and reappearing in another...but the specific details of these things are facts known by Tailthwacker--being the field foreman, it is he to whom the workers reported these mysterious happenings first.
"You speak of portents, lion-taur..? The only strange dream that I, myself, have had lately is the Grand Dream...the one that all centaurs shared but a fortnight or so ago. Other than that, I have had no unusual dreams that I can remember.
"The different avenues that you propose to explore are all good ones...but take some friendly advice from me: the centaurs of this area are NOT used to seeing wemics...and they definitely will be very suspicious of minotaurs (to say the least!)--I don't think it would be a good idea for your group to separate to investigate those possible leads, because the area centaurs may not think to treat the non-natives in your party with the respect due them. Why, it might even be dangerous for them. The concept of wemics and minotaurs as brothers-in-arms is just TOO new for anyone outside the vineyard to entertain. I think your best bet is to exhaust all the avenues within the vineyard first...THEN, if you still feel the need, ALL of you--together--can go back to town to do additional investigating."
Silky regards you all with a friendly, inquiring gaze that asks silently: is that all?
Kale Thursday March 8th, 2001 8:43:52 AM
"He needs watching." Kale whispers to Flat-Top in regards to Raorr. "If he cant control himself, we may have to do it for him." then he walks up to Silky and says. "Thats good advise. We will go to the grotto. Can you point the way?"
Flat-top Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:19:24 AM
"I'm with you, Kale" said Flat-top,"I think that he'll be one fine fighter, even better that me. But he has to learn control."
Zeoll Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:47:27 AM
Zeoll agrees with Kale. "Yes, Silky, yourr worrds arre wise. Thank you."
The liontaur priest turns to the group. "Let us go, then, firrst to this Grrotto to deterrmine the superrnaturrality of these visitations, as best we can."
To Kalon and Raorr, Zeoll says, "You werre not Chosen in vain -- we will have need of yourr skills, I am sure."
To Leets, Zeoll suggests, "Yourr intuition, frriend Paladin, will be welcome if this does turrn out to be a prroblem with undead. Please let us know about any hunches or feelings you get."
"Silky, thank you forr yourr welcome. Come now, fellow Chosen! We have work to do!"
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday March 8th, 2001 11:13:59 AM
Raorr realizes the time to leave is now bulls (pun)his way through the group towards the door in an attempt to get ahead of them. Trying to step around or over those in his way. For those who seeem to resist, he tries to push around them with his bulk. All the while Raorr's breathing seems deeper and more rhythmatic, it is as though he is in a trance.
Leets Thursday March 8th, 2001 3:23:29 PM
Leets nods at Silky, and then Zeoll.
"My intuition, my friend, tells me that there are little chances for undeads to be involved. The blue vine can be considered as a holy liquor or a simple alcoholic drink for pagans. I don't have much experience, but I think that undeads would need neither one..."
Leets gets closer to Raorr and smiles to him:
"My friend, it looks like our merry little groups will have a walk!"
Ceira Karwyn (guest played by Cayzle) Thursday March 8th, 2001 7:09:04 PM
Being a little startled at Raorr's behavior, Ceira backs up to let the minotaur pass. Slightly nervous, she turns to Kenisha and answers her question quietly. "Yes, I know something about the arcane. I hope that together we can prove no ghost is involved after all."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday March 8th, 2001 10:54:52 PM
Seeing that Raorr has made a path through the group Kalon hurries after him. Sensing in a strange way a kindred spirit he tries to catch up to the big minotaur.
"I'll keep an eye on him" he says to Leets, Kale and Flat-top.
Kenisha Friday March 9th, 2001 1:03:31 AM
Giggling at everyone's reactions to Raorr, Kenisha nods to Ceira, "So do I. Although I do think that if we don't calm Raorr down, some poor worker here is going to get scared to death at the sight of him!" With that she bursts out laughing and trails out after Raorr and Kalon.
The Way to the Grotto Friday March 9th, 2001 7:07:21 AM
Silky immediately makes sure that her office door and even the doors to the outside are opened before the minotaur barbarian can muscle through them. She canters out to the pathway in front of the office door and literally points the way towards the Archway Grotto even as she repeats her previous directions to reach it:
"Follow this pathway out to the main road, turn right towards the bottling facilities, and follow the road until it ends. There you will find two ways to go on...turn right or turn left. Turning right leads you to the bottling building. Turning left will lead you to the Archway Grotto." Silky explains, adding, "Oh--and Tailthwacker is an older centaur...he's got a gray hide and he'll be on the lookout for you."
Raorr the Minotaur Friday March 9th, 2001 3:25:04 PM
Raorr nods his head acknowledging his understanding of the directions from the Centaur, Silky. When she finsihes he begins to hustle quickly (80 ft/round) Glaive held in front of him ready in case of combat. He travels up the pathway, making a right at the main road and continuing until he reaches the end. There he makes a left hand turn and continues on towards the Archway grotto. All the while he will keep an eye open for a grey hide centaur.
Flat-top Friday March 9th, 2001 5:56:06 PM
"Come on, Kale we better keep up with him, he's bound to get into trouble."Flat-top tells Kale. Then Flat-top gallops behind Raorr, yelling " HEY! RAORR! WAIT FOR US. YOUR NOT ALONE ANY MORE!"
thiel Friday March 9th, 2001 8:34:05 PM
The game is afoot . thiel Decides to walk to the grotto he is in no hurry to speak with an elderly centaur.
Kale Friday March 9th, 2001 9:31:00 PM
Kale shakes his head as Raorr runs off to find death. How did we get stuck with this guy? Kale thinks to himself as he begins to walk on the path at a normal pace
Leets Friday March 9th, 2001 10:57:38 PM
"By the gods the workers of the vineyard certainly don't need that!"
Says Leets following Raorr as quickly as he can just after Flat-Top. As the young Paladin is running he thinks:
"At least we are two centaurs running after him, this will be better to explain that he's a friend..."
Kenisha Saturday March 10th, 2001 12:55:10 AM
Shaking her head and silently chuckling, Kenisha follows the rest at a normal canter. "I think we need to get Raorr to stop and smell the honeysuckle. That boy is WAY to intense!"
Ceira Karwyn (guest played by Cayzle) Saturday March 10th, 2001 5:16:34 PM
Ceira helps herself to one more of those delicious moonbuns and thanks Silky. "Don't worry. I'm sure we'll figure this out." She follows Kenisha, moving toward the Grotto.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday March 11th, 2001 7:15:36 PM
Kalon hurries off after Raorr calling out to him,"Slow down my large friend. No need to rush the grotto will still be there and you might run over somebody in your hurry and hurt them" Kalon tries his best to keep up with the large minotaur
Zeoll Sunday March 11th, 2001 11:09:11 PM
Zeoll stays between the group chasing Raorr and the two Taur spell casters (Kenisha and Ceira) behind. He'll urge the two mages to hurry in order to keep everyone together, if necessary.
Along the Way (DM Donna) d20=10 d20=8 d20=6 d20=3 d20=7 d20=3 Monday March 12th, 2001 7:20:07 AM
As Raorr goes stomping off down the road--with his newfound compatriots trailing along behind the minotaur.
About a half a dozen field hands happen to see the "parade"...and all of them--seeing what appears to be a rampaging minotaur with barbarous-looking weapons at the ready--stampede towards their hereditary enemy...they look determined to stop Raorr by any means necessary.
Leets Monday March 12th, 2001 3:51:11 PM
While the young centaur paladin runs after Raorr, he notices the vineyard's workers approaching to stop Raorr.
"By all the gods and goddesses! They'd better try to stop a charging bull herd!"
Leets gives up Raorr, moving in the direction of the workers:
"Please stop my friends! The appearances could be disturbing, but this minotaur is there to help us...He will hurt nobody as long as nobody stands in his way. Please brothers centaurs go back to your work, we will manage the situation."
Raorr the Minotaur d20=12 d20-2=11 Monday March 12th, 2001 4:40:13 PM
Raorr believing he hears Leets, Kalon and Flat-Top(Listen Check 12) stops. He looks behind him at the rest and bellows "(Tauric) Why tell Raorr to stop? Raorr go find grey-haired one."
Raorr looks around (Spot Check 11) and believes he sees more Centaurs joining the group to help look for the Grey-Haired Centaur, he grunts to himself 'Ponies', Bellows at the approaching workers snarling in his usual charismatic tone. "(Tauric) You tell Raorr where Tailtwacker is, Raorr wants Tailthacker!"
(OOC) I believe centaurs move 50 per move or 100 ft. so the group's Centaur should easily reach Raorr in the one round of running that they made. And unless the Wemics are medium encumbered they should move at Raorr's Speed.
(To DM) What are the workers equipped with?
Flat-top Monday March 12th, 2001 7:03:07 PM
"HEY! Roarr, Wait up. This is a group effort. We all go as a party. Your too big, you'll scare everybody away." Yelling Flat-top as he gallop towards Roarr.
Thiel Monday March 12th, 2001 8:42:35 PM
thiel says " that bulls gonna get someone hurt " we better see that he finds away to be part of the team we dont need someone in busines for themselves
Kalon the Wemic Monday March 12th, 2001 9:17:18 PM
Kalon hurries as fast as he can to catch up to Raorr while trying to keep an eye out for any trouble that Raorr might have stirred up.
Zeoll Tuesday March 13th, 2001 1:00:09 AM
Hoping to forestall disaster, Zeoll will ready a leap to interpose himself between any aggressive local centaur and Raorr.
"Good folk," the liontaur calls out, "we arre all frriends, sent by Domi to aid Silky and this vinyarrd!"
To Raorr, he says, "Frriend, please be calm. slow down. We do not want to frrighten these people."
Kenisha Tuesday March 13th, 2001 1:04:16 AM
Kenisha quickens her cantor to catch up and moves to stand besides Raorr; giving a visual indication of Raorr's inclusion in the group. She smiles at him reassuredly.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday March 13th, 2001 4:28:52 AM
As Ceira runs to keep up, she shakes her head. "Looks like we are going to have our hands full for quite a while. And I'm not just referring to Silky's problem."
Kale Tuesday March 13th, 2001 6:20:04 AM
lagging behind the others, Kale once again finds his bow in his hands. if he hurts any of those workers, Kale things to himself, ill drop him my self
Dog...er...Pony Pile on the Minotaur..! (DM Donna) d20+4=19 Tuesday March 13th, 2001 7:31:29 AM
(OOC: rolled a Strength check for Raorr.)
The completely unarmed workers--to a centaur--throw themselves upon the barbarian, shouting and calling for help as their sheer weight bears the well-meaning Raorr slowly but inexorably to the ground. To their credit, they are NOT hitting, kicking or stomping on the hapless minotaur, but they ARE yelling in a panicked manner for Tailthwacker, the Fort patrol, the Safety Squad and even a yelp for "Mommy!!!"
(OOC: Raorr can roll a Strength check versus a DC of 24. IF he actually makes it, it means he's managed to wrench himself away from the fearful bunch of centaurs.)
Raorr the Minotaur d20+4=13 d20+5=18 d20+5=17 Tuesday March 13th, 2001 11:41:56 AM
'Silly Centaurs' Raorr thinks to himself, He yells out to the group "Only Centaurs would attack an armed minotaur with nothing but their hands" decididing rather than slaughtering unarmed Centaurs he will attaempt to push and kick them off him. He snarls to the Group (PCs) "Raorr not kill them.....They want to play, Raorr don't lose." trying to give them the impression he doesn't feel threatened by the workers.
(Strength Check = 13) Raorr uses very little of his strength in a feeble attempt to break free, however he seems more than happy with fighting back against the workers.
Raorr will release the Glaive he had in his hand and attempts to headbutt (Unarmed Melee attack = 18) one of the workers. "Stupid Centaurs" He snarls, noticably his voice is becoming even more incoherent as his face seems to contort "Release Raorr, or face Angry Raorr"
(OOC) Since they moved through one of Raorr's Zones of Control... Raorr would have attempted to kick one of them (Unarmed Melee Attack of Opporutunity = 17) before they could start the grapple.
Raorr will use his dodge verus a random Centaur Worker,
Kalon the Wemic d20+3=6 Tuesday March 13th, 2001 4:18:23 PM
Kalon rushes in to aid the grappled Raorr grabbing at the first centaur and trying to pull him off of Roarr. Not for Roarr's sake but because he's pretty sure he doesn't want to see Roarr angry and neither do the centaurs. As he struggles amidst the mass of tangled centaur, minotaur and now wemic limbs(6 to try to grab a centaur) he can't get a good grip on anything,"Stop, stop he is not trying to hurt you...at least not yet. He's just abit overeager!" Kalon yells
Leets Tuesday March 13th, 2001 5:20:45 PM
Leets hesitates between rushing into the chotic melee and doing something more smart. Also he would really like a good hand to hand fight, he decides to trot circularly around the melee, trying to prevent new centaurs to jump on Raorr.
"Perhaps is it a strange idea but I feel like they won't talk of ghosts tonight..."
Flat-top d20+3=16 Tuesday March 13th, 2001 5:27:54 PM
Flat-top arrives and grabs a centaur from off of his buddy the minotaur. "Hey, buddy-boy..." he says to Raorr, "...you have to control yourself, buddy-Raorr." Then Flat-top tells the centaur he's grabbed onto: "I DON'T think it's a good idea to antagonize this less-than-intelligent minotaur who LOVES to play rough...you'd better leave him to us!"
And now he hopes for the best!
Stone Cold Zeoll d20+1=14 Tuesday March 13th, 2001 6:11:56 PM
Zeoll stands flabbergasted at the sight before him. Then he laughs from mane to tail. "Domi loves a good wrrestling match," Zeoll says, "and looking at you wimps, it's clearr that I'M KING OF THE MOUNTAIN!" The big wemic dives in!
[OOC: that roll above is my strength check. Zeoll will be careful to NOT hurt anybody (claws sheathed). And boy oh boy, do I wish I still had my wrestling proficiency from the Second Edition version of my character!]
Thiel Tuesday March 13th, 2001 8:24:43 PM
As tiel arrives at the pile of haunches and horns he begins to laugh and he says a silent prayer that none of te farm help gets injured. Deciding not to enter the frey he thinks to himself " I would say that it will do the bull good if he comes out of tis with afew bumps and bruises but he Knows to himself thats notn the case that bull is sure to think himself larger for having gotten himself hurt and afew of the others as well.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday March 13th, 2001 11:35:33 PM
She places both hands on her waist and shakes her head. "MEN... Centaur men in particular..." scoffs Ceira as she rolls her eyes in disgust. Knowing full well, the others should have things under control she pulls out one of her waterskins and takes a drink as she watches on in amusement.
Kenisha Wednesday March 14th, 2001 12:54:29 AM
Kenisha refrains from adding her voice to those trying to get the centaurs to cease their attack. She does however gets ready to grab any centaur the others manage to remove from the mess; thus freeing them to grab another while keeping the first worker from just leaping back into the fray.
Kale Wednesday March 14th, 2001 7:03:57 AM
shaking his head, Kale puts his bow up an continues to walk down the path, ignoring the melee that is happening. "When you are done, meet me at the grotto." he says as he walks on by
Who's On First? (DM Donna) d20+1=21 d20+1=18 d20+1=4 d20+1=18 d20+1=19 d20+1=2 Wednesday March 14th, 2001 7:43:56 AM
By now--with the addition of some of the party members--the road is all but blocked by the mass of writhing, wrestling centaurs, wemics and the lone minotaur who unwittingly set the whole scenario off. None of the centaurs who jumped on the barbarian have made any move towards the relinquished weapon on the ground. Rustling and the sound of pounding hooves approach.
"Oh, for the love of Domi!" hollers a voice from just beyond the hand-to-hand battle. "Awright, ya knot-heads--knock it OFF!!!"
It's a very hilarious scene as everyone in the free-for-all freezes in place and looks at the person who just bellowed out that command in a no-nonsense-allowed tone of Tauric.
There--just in front of Kale--stands a large, bearded centaur with a gray hide, a long flowing beard and an aggrieved look on his weather-beaten face.
"Now what in the six-hunnert-an'-sixty-six layers of the Abyss is goin' ON???" he demands.
To the last centaur, the field hands in the melee all point to Raorr.
"HE started it..!" six voices chorus in unison.
Leets Wednesday March 14th, 2001 8:02:56 AM
Leets releases the collar of the centaur he was holding back and walks to the newcomer.
"Hello! You are probably Tailthwacker, Silky wanted us to see you. We are the group of Taurs sent to investigate about some stranges events that happened recently in the vineyard...It looks like it has to do with the Grotto, and our friend Raorr - noding at the dust-covered minotaur on the ground - just...well...Rushed too quickly to go there and meet you..."
The young paladin rubs his hands one on the other to clean them.
"Oh, I almost forget to behave with all this wrestling...I'm Leets, and here...and there, is our group."
Zeoll Wednesday March 14th, 2001 2:03:27 PM
Zeoll climbs to his feet, then offers a hand to whoever looks like they could use one.
He bows to Tailthwacker. "I am Zeoll, a prriest of Domi," he says, "and I am pleased to meet you. Please forrgive ourr rrambunctious spirrits -- the joy of life and Domi's blessing flows frresh within us!"
The liontaur brushes himself off and looks at the group. Turning back to the aged centaur, he smiles, shrugs, and says, "Appearrances notwithstanding, we arre the serrvants of Domi summoned by Hollyhocks to aid you herre. We've alrready spoken with Silky, but I would like to hearr frrom you. Please tell us all about yourr rrecent trroubles."
Flat-top Wednesday March 14th, 2001 3:39:06 PM
"He started it."Yells Flat-top, as he points to Roarr. "Come on Buddy Boy,pick up your weapon and let's catch up to Kale. And besides this was fun." Flat-top gives the minotaur a hand to help him get up.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday March 14th, 2001 8:50:06 PM
Ceira walks around the mass of taurs and approaches Tailthwacker. "Good day to you." she bows in respect. "Judging by the outcome of this mayhem, I'd say you're the one in charge here. Ceira Karwyn at your service. Please excuse our gruff minotaur friend over there." she gestures to Roarr. "I understand the recent activities that has transpired here has kept the nerves of the centaur workers on edge. The minotaur's name is Roarr and I can't blame your workers for how they reacted. Just look at him." Ceira pauses to let Tailthwacker look him over. "His demeanor is just asking for trouble sometimes! Anyways, we should move on to business. Silky has given us a task to investigate and she has directed us to you."
Kenisha Thursday March 15th, 2001 1:16:52 AM
Kenisha snickers as she watches all the fingers pointing. They were all acting like young colts.
Addressing the workers she gentily admonishes them, "I believe that in fact it was you six that started the fight, although Raorr's charging down the road no doubt was too much. Let's just call it even and shake hands as friends."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday March 15th, 2001 1:26:59 AM
Kalon stops struggling with the arrival of Tailthwacker and tries to disentangle himself,"Com'n Raorr let the nice centaurs go. We're all friends here" he says to Raorr. Once clear he waits for the grey coated centaur to speak.
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday March 15th, 2001 3:26:34 AM
Raorr shoves a Centaur of of himself, and stands up. Snarling he says "See" lookingover at Tailthwacker "Raorr find Tailthwacker, Raorr find grey haired Centaur."
He picks up the Glaive and Tightens the grip again on it. Looking at the centaur workers, he switches the hand the Glaive is in to the hand holding the sheild. He bends over and hesitantly offers a Hand to one of the Workers to help them up. An expression of restraint is shown on his face in doing so.
"Raorr should not have charged through road. Raorr want to finish this stupid Ghost Hunt soon, everyone talk too much. Raorr hurry and find Tailthwacker" Looing at the Grey-haired Centaur. Again the expression of restraint crosses his face as he continues "Raorr....sorry" The last word barely passes his lips as he tries again to look tough by snarling.
Truth & Consequences (DM Donna) d20+2=16 Thursday March 15th, 2001 7:55:40 AM
The gray centaur gives everybody in the vicinity a very canny and probing glance, his sharp eyes roaming from one person to another. Finally he stomps a hoof.
"Didn't I just tell ya guys that we was expectin' comp'ny? DIDN'T I???" he yells, causing the six field hands to jump, droop and/or twitch their tails nervously. "We's all just had that dream jus' last week, an' the druids all jus' interperted it for us just a few days ago--an' youse all gotta charge a minotaur that was jus' tryin' ta help us. Sheesh!"
The centaur whom Raorr extended a hand towards looks sheepish (for a horse! tee hee!) and slowly accepts the minotaur's hand, hauling himself to his four feet.
"Now--get yer hinds back ta work--ALL of youse!" the gray centaur commands with a growl and a scowl. Suddenly all you see are tails & elbows as all of the field hands gallop back into the fragrant and fertile vines.
"Now...I am Tailthwacker," the gray centaur says to you, "Sorry that my boys jumped youse like that--they shoulda knowed better. They're just spooked by all this here 'ghost' talk. Now...whatcha wanna know..?"
Kale Thursday March 15th, 2001 9:32:18 AM
"We are here to investigate these ghosts." Kale tells Tailtwacker. "If you will show us were they are suppost to be, we will solve this and be on our way, letting you get back to work."
Flat-top Thursday March 15th, 2001 12:32:15 PM
"Listen, Raorr, All we want you to do is march along with us, or something might happen to you or to us. You might be so far head of us that YOU or us could get KILLED!" Flat-top tells Raorr,"Now why don't you march beside me and Kale here?" Flat-top glares at Kale and tells him,"WE could Use a little HELP here."
Kenisha Thursday March 15th, 2001 2:22:11 PM
"WE are here to investigate the disappearance of the sacred wine and other strange things that have been happening here- whether it be caused by ghosts or other means." Kenisha pointedly directed this to Kale even though she was addressing Tailthwacker. "What is your take on the occurrances, sir?"
Leets Thursday March 15th, 2001 3:06:59 PM
"We were told that the strange events that happened recently were perhaps linked in the some way with the grotto over there, and we are thinking it would be a good place to begin our investigation. The main problem seem to be the disappearance of the blue vine, perhaps could you tell us were was the vine that disappeared?"
Leets gets a look at Raorr when he has finished, feeling better when he sees that Kale and Flat-Top are dealing with him.
Zeoll Thursday March 15th, 2001 6:36:27 PM
"We need to get to the Grrotto. I hope you can lead us therre," Zeoll tells Tailthwacker.
As soon as he gets the opportunity, Zeoll will engage the centaur in a conversation. He will try to use his untrained Sense Motive Skill (+3 Wisdom bonus) to get a hunch about this elderly centaur. Is he trustworthy or hiding something?
Kalon the Wemic Thursday March 15th, 2001 7:26:15 PM
Kalon seeing that the situation has calmed down stands by quietly listening as the party begins to question the grey centaur. He stands ready to intervene should Roarr begin to get out of hand again.
Raorr the Minotaur Friday March 16th, 2001 2:26:34 AM
Glaring at Flat-Top "Raorr in control" he snorts "Raorr, need not march, You centaurs are faster than Raorr, you Wemics are fast too." Raorr stretches his neck again and speaks "Why need Raorr slow down. Time important, Festival only days away."
Tailthwacker (DM Donna) d20+3=20 Friday March 16th, 2001 7:07:52 AM
A final glare from the foreman sends even the spectators back to their jobs in the field, then the older centaur turns a bemused face towards Raorr.
"Flying Purple..? Ahhhhh...the critter!" Tailthwacker nods. "Youse don't believe in THAT stuff, does ya?" Laughter brays forth from the male. "I'm dead sure that th' guards was nippin' at the inventory themselves to see such a sight! Purple monsters!" The foreman snorts.
"Alla the herd that works around here have stories about weird stuff that's been happenin'..." the gray centaur says, "...One guy swears up an' down that a basket of grapes he'd just picked poofed outta his hands...then reappeared a row over. Somebody else says she felt really big horseflies nippin' at her and, when she tried to swat at 'em with her tail--it was covered with muck so's that she dirtied her hindquarters up. She also says that she heard giggling--but there was nobody there. Stuff like this has been happenin' ever since the guards reported seein' that light a few nights ago...an' everyone around here starts yakkin' that it MUST be 'ghosts'!" The field foreman tosses his head, clearly skeptical.
"Now...if it's about these 'ghosties' that youse wanna find out, follow me...I'll tell youse the legend of the Grotto ghosts while we go see the place." Tailthwacker turns around and starts to walk down the road, in the direction Raorr was going before being halted by the overzealous field hands.
Zeoll definitely gets the feeling that the gruff centaur is being entirely truthful.
Raorr the Minotaur Friday March 16th, 2001 6:38:22 PM
Raorr for once remains silent and follows the grey Centaur, and will listen carefully to the legend when it is told.
Zeoll Sunday March 18th, 2001 1:12:08 PM
Zeoll keeps alert as they approach the grotto. He listens carefully to Tailthwacker. At a natural pause, he says softly to Kenisha and Ceira, "I have not hearrd that the Undead are loverrs of prranks and mischief. You arre both students of the arrcane -- does this kind of thing sound familiarr?"
Flat-top Sunday March 18th, 2001 1:48:30 PM
Walking with Kale and Raorr, Flat-top tell them," So far NO! perple taur eaters."
Kalon the Wemic Sunday March 18th, 2001 2:48:41 PM
Still keeping an eye on Raorr he tries his best to enjoy the scenery and listen to what Tailthwacker is saying.
Kenisha d20+7=18 Sunday March 18th, 2001 4:04:35 PM
"No, Zeoll, it doesn't sound like things undead would do. Let me think a moment...."
(ooc- rolled an 18 on my Knowledge: Arcane to figure out what, if anything, fits this description.)
Kale Sunday March 18th, 2001 9:22:07 PM
"Thats very interesting." Kale says to Tailtwacker. "But we need to get going. If you have any important information for us, tell us, if not we will be on our way." then he gives Flat-Top a look that says, why do i have to babysit? while making it a point to ignore Kenisha's comment
Ceira Karwyn Sunday March 18th, 2001 10:53:51 PM
"No!" she replies a bit louder than usual. "It can't be a ghost. We are here to solve the mystery by proving it is NOT a ghost... Right?" the same concerned look emerges on her face again. She looks to the sky to double check the time of day.
Regaining her composure, she thinks for a moment and gives a suggestion. "The first thing that comes to my mind when combining 'mysterious lights' and 'pranks' are the mischievious Will-O'-Wisps. I am not certain if I am right, but I am basing it off of some old stories I have come across. The undead," she shivers before conitinuing. "are too mindless to pay any heed to pranks. The only sensible ones who might enjoy the humor in toying with their prey would be Vampires, Liches, and the Ancient Dead. If any of those three were present, these centaur workers would have been wiped out long before we would have arrived." Ceira looks at Tailthwacker. "No offense Tailthwacker, but they are foes you just don't want to mess with."
After a few brief moments she continues reluctantly in a lower voice. "Well... I suppose a ghost COULD be michievious in their nature." Ceira begins twiddling the toes on her paws in nervousness. "I have heard stories of the existence of neutral ghosts. They are very rare and it depends on the nature of their death. Very rare." she repeats with emphasis. "As P.B. Shelly once said in Ozymandias, 'All spirits are enslaved to serve things evil.' And I tend to believe that because I do not want to let my guard down for ANY ghost."
Leets Monday March 19th, 2001 4:29:50 AM
Leets Keep an eye on Raorr and the other on the surroundings in the case something would happen. When Tailthwacker begins to tell his story, he listens carefully, wondering which links could be supposed between the latest stange events and the legend of the grotto. He feels a little bit excited and worried at the same time. This would be his first meeting with supernatural creature, but on the other hand, that could be dangerous, mainly for people around. As his mother once said: one is never too cautious when innocents' safety is in question. Leets manages to abandon his curiosity, prefering to look around and listen to Tailthwacker while he follows the little group.
The Tale of the Grotto Ghosts (DM Donna) Monday March 19th, 2001 7:03:37 AM
As far as anyone can tell, nothing mystical seems to fit the descriptions that Tailthwacker is relating to you about the so-called ghostly happenings.
"About a hundred years ago--" the foreman starts his story as he walks along the road, "--a young female fled into the Arch Grotto section of the vineyard, seeking refuge from the unwanted attentions of the then-stallion of the Surefoot herd. They say he was a real ornery fella, an' he wouldn't take 'no' for an answer. He was s'pposed to have run into grotto after her...but the stallion was the only one who was seen to come out. He was grabbed and thrown inta th' pokey, and got hisself convicted of her murder even though the body was never found.
"Since then, there been a crackpot or two who've spouted off that the ghost of either the female or the stallion had been sighted in various parts of the vineyard...the Grotto, the fields...even aroun' the old distillery buildin'..."
Everyone should make a Listen check against DC 15 to hear the sound of galloping hooves approaching the party from behind.
Kale d20+1=7 Monday March 19th, 2001 7:35:20 AM
Kale is so annoyed that Tailtwacker pretty much ignored him that he doesnt hear the hooves galloping
Raorr the Minotaur d20=1 Monday March 19th, 2001 11:19:18 AM
Raorr seems completely distracted (Listen roll = 1) and entranced by the story of the two centaurs that he ignores everone else.
Raorr says "Ghost then not new, why only now people flee then. If ghost old then people know ghost ghost should be friend, ghost help protect home from enemy. Spirits help protect nature."
Kenisha d20+2=16 Monday March 19th, 2001 12:39:48 PM
Kenisha listens to the story as they continue on to the Grotto, her mind ticking off difference mystical creatures and events.
"I agree Raorr, why would a ghost start now to haunt the vineyard?"
Suddenly she hears something. Even before she is completely turned around to look she says, "Um, guys? I think someone's approaching from behind us."
Flat-top d20+1=3 Monday March 19th, 2001 2:49:40 PM
Flat-top Listens to Tailthwacker not really impressed. When Kenisha said something to the effect that someone was coming. Flat-top turns his head and ask,"HUH?".
Ceira Karwyn d20=5 Monday March 19th, 2001 3:39:21 PM
Ceira fur stands on end and a chill run up her spine upon hearing Tailthwacker's story. She is so petrified, she is oblivious to her surroundings. She continues focusing on Tailthwacker in the hopes that he will reassure her those are strictly rumors.
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=12 Monday March 19th, 2001 9:16:46 PM
Kalon listens intently to Tailthwacker's story. "Very interesting" he thinks to himself,"I wonder what it could be"
Absorbed in his inner musings he fils to hear the sound of hooves approaching from behind.
Something Wicked This Way Comes..? (DM Donna) Tuesday March 20th, 2001 6:54:21 AM
Everyone in the party except Kenisha didn't hear the hoofbeats approaching, but the sorceress's verbal warning is sufficient to keep the party from being caught flatfooted...
...but this is no battle. You turn to see a young centaur female with a russett hide cantering quickly up to your group--no, wait--she's obviously specifically seeking Tailthwacker.
"Sir!" she calls out to the foreman. "Browser told me that I need your signature on this release form before I can get my severance pay." She stops in front of the older centaur, holding out a piece of paper and, occasionally, sneaking puzzled glances at the party.
"Awwww, Firehoof, I'da thunk YOU wouldn'ta fallen for all this ghost talk poop..." grumbles Tailthwacker as he--with obvious reluctance--takes the paper from the female and starts to search his satchel for some kind of writing instrument.
"It's not the ghosts that have chased me away, Mr. Tailthwacker, sir." Firehoof says firmly. "I know what I saw...and it was NO ghost."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday March 20th, 2001 7:46:33 AM
Ceira's eyes light up upon hearing Firehoof's claim that it is not a ghost. Ceira confidently strides over to Firehoof and proclaims, "Worrry not, we Taurs have been sent by the Domi to investigate the problem and rectify it. My name is Ceira. Rest assured that you are in good hands. Now, I will not stop you from leaving, but could you spare a few minutes of your time explaining what you saw?"
Zeoll Tuesday March 20th, 2001 9:34:12 AM
Zeoll listens patiently to Ceira and waits for Firehoof's reply. Somewhat taken aback at not having heard the centaur as she approached, he now keeps a keen eye open and tries to be more alert.
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday March 20th, 2001 11:46:22 AM
Raorr thinks to himself... cowardly Centaur. What should Raorr say to it? I know
Raorr looks at the young Centaur, Firehoof. "Roarr think you coward. You hired to be guard, you should protect the vineyard. Scared wine more important than you. Scared Wine more important than Raorr. Scared Wine is blood of the Taur people, even Raorr know that."
Looking at TAilthwacker "You Centaurs need to hire brave minotaurs to guard we don't scare this easy."
Raorr yells out to the sky "Is their no BRAVE CENTAURS anymore!. Or are you all just little colts with fears of shadows jumping out at you?"
With that said Raorr smiles.
Flat-top Tuesday March 20th, 2001 11:50:11 AM
Flat-top upon seeing the filly (Firehoof), Brushes his hair and main back. In he's sweetest voice, ask her,"My what a beautiful filly you are, would you mind taking a little trot with me? I have a few question, I would like to ask you!" Flat-top puff his chest out and smiles romantically.
Leets Tuesday March 20th, 2001 1:20:16 PM
The young paladin clears his voice, always a little bit intimidated when meeting girls. He gets closer, saying with his most reassuring smile:
"I think that you should think twice about it before leaving the vineyard, it has to be a great honor to defend such a place...Moreover, now that we are here, things will probably get better very soon, especially if you answer Ceira's questions..."
When he has finished, Leets blushes a little...
Kale Tuesday March 20th, 2001 6:48:22 PM
Kale sits down in the grass and starts flicking his dagger into the ground, knowing that the info he wants will come soon enough
Kenisha Wednesday March 21st, 2001 1:08:14 AM
Kenisha raises an eyebrow at Raorr's bellows. With arms crossed over her chest and a stern look on her face, she trots up until she is mere inches away from him.
Firmly and in a no nonsense voice she tells him. "Be careful of the words you use; that they should be soft and sweet. You never know from day to day which ones you may have to eat." She pauses for a moment before adding, "Now why don't we wait and hear what she thinks she saw before we pass judgement on her."
You Talkin' ta ME??? (DM Donna) d20=20 Wednesday March 21st, 2001 7:07:14 AM
Firehoof answers Ciera's request readily.
"There's no such thing as a winged purple ghost, that much I know--so what I saw was NO ghost...but it was big and loud and...and it roared at me, so I'm NOT sticking around."
The rather attractive centaur female quirks an eyebrow at Flat-top, with an expression that says to all: "you've GOT to be kidding..!" This bemused expression is methodically drained from her face as Raorr's pronouncement is made, though. Firehoof stands silent for a moment, her face pale and her eyes flash with the fires of intentional, barehanded murder as she stares at the barbarian who dared to call her a coward.
Then, slowly, she takes the paper back from Tailthwacker...and rips it in half, crumbling the pieces.
"Never mind, sir," Firehoof says defiantly, "This hornhead is right! I'm a security guard, here to insure the safety of the Sacred Blue Wine...I have NO right to turn tail and retreat just because I saw a twenty-foot-tall, one-eyed, one-horned flying purple monster. I have a job to do, and I'll continue doing it." Firehoof backs off a step or two, but then steps up to stand toe-to-toe with Raorr himself, so that her face is mere inches from his.
"And you..." the guard says in a deceptively mild tone, "...while I'm grateful that you talked the yellow out of me--if I ever have the slightest reason to...I will definitely strike you down, minotaur--just see if I don't!"
Flat-top Wednesday March 21st, 2001 10:56:58 AM
Flat-top stands there with his mouth open, trying to ask a question...
"Ubba...ubba...mmm...twenty feet...uh...uhhh...TALL...annnd...annnnd...purple...one--one-aye yi aye yi EYED...flying...and FLYING???" He eyes the filly suspiciously. "What have you been doing? Sampling the wine, young lady?"
Leets Wednesday March 21st, 2001 12:45:51 PM
Leets tries to figure out what the monster can look like...
"That would be some kind of purple cyclop with wings...That was certainly no kind of new Taur...So what could it be?"
The young guard seemed to be serious.
"Does anyone thinks it could be some kind of...well...demon?"
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday March 21st, 2001 1:31:35 PM
Raorr looks down into her eyes, with his. Raorr's eyes show signs of respect and intelligence.
Raorr speaks quiety to Firehoof "For the first time in this grotto, You have show me a Centaur I would be honored to die fighting beside." He looks back to the group then nback at Firehoof "I am Raorr. I too hope never to give you that reason to strike me down, for Domi and Imod would lose a strong willed Taur if either of us died."
He places his Glaive on the ground and retreives a Wineskin from his Saddle bag. His voice raises slightly "A drink to a Brave Centaur, and may the Domi, Imod and Tomi protect her in her vigil." after taking a sip himself of the Wine he made from home, he offers it to Firehoof along with an open hand in a gesture of friendship.
He glances at Kenisha thinking to himself <I'll talk to her in private>
Kenisha Wednesday March 21st, 2001 3:01:27 PM
Ingoring Raorr's scowl at her, Kenisha ponders what creature could possibly fit such a description. Turning to Firehoof she asks politely, "You said it roared at you. Did it sound like a lion? What (if it had any) did it's teeth look like? It's eye- was it like a centaurs, or more like a cats or reptilian? Did it have fur, skin or scales? What other details can you give us? Anything would be gratefully appreciated. So far I haven't been able to determine what kind of creature this could be."
Zeoll Wednesday March 21st, 2001 3:50:40 PM
"Let us ponderr the otherr clues," Zeoll suggests. "All the evidence points to mischief and tomfoolerry. I believe this monsterr is anotherr prrank!"
"Considerr -- a huge monsterr must eat, but no prrey has been hunted. Demons and undead are malevolent, but no one has been slain. Ghosts and spirrits are not purrple, as Firrehoof points out. I suspect illusion and trrickerry."
Zeoll shakes his mane, as if to shake dust or cobwebs from his eyes, and the beads braided in his hair clack resoundingly. "We arre looking for cowarrdly mages, maybe gnomes or feys, who have prrobably themselves stolen the sacrred wine," the wemic declares.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday March 21st, 2001 7:17:24 PM
Kalon smiles inwardedly at the exchange between Raorr and Firehoof."So there is more to him then meets the eye" he thinks to himself.
Clearing his throat abit nervous at speaking to the group as a whole,"Maybe what we face is something sent by our mutual god to see how well we can work together to solve the problem and work together without bloodshed"
OOC: Sorry I'm sure I sent a turn yesterday but it obviously didn't show up.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday March 21st, 2001 9:28:02 PM
Ceira cluthches her chin in thought. Upon hearing Zeoll's speculations, she nods in approval. "Yes those are all good points Zeoll. Let's keep that in mind while we have a look around the Grotto." Ceira looks Tailthwacker in the eye as a signal to continue.
Kale Thursday March 22nd, 2001 5:30:31 AM
"All this speculation isnt getting us anywhere." Kale says "We will find out soon enough what is it when whe get to the grotto. Which is what we should be doing right now. I dont want to meet this thing at night if I can help it."
The Grotto
A Toast to a New Friend (DM Donna) d20+2=18 Thursday March 22nd, 2001 7:48:50 AM
Firehoof eyes Raorr for a moment, but seems to judge that he's trustworthy...for a minotaur. She takes the wineskin, drinks to the toast, and then, handing the skin back to its owner, takes his offered hand and grips it strongly, nodding. Then the female guard turns and addresses the various questions about WHAT it was that she saw.
"When I'm on duty, sir," she says rather haughtily to Flat-top, "I do NOT drink." Then the filly grows thoughtful.
"It was night time, and that thing was not near any light sources," Firehoof continues to explain, "So I can't tell you what kind of teeth it had...but..." Now the young centaur looks a little embarrassed. "...um, to tell the truth--seeing that big old--whatever-it-was kinda startled me...but now that I really, REALLY think about it...well, the roar...it sounded an awful lot like..." Firehoof swallowed hard and squared her shoulders.
"...it sounded like a very loud...burp."
Zeoll Thursday March 22nd, 2001 8:27:35 AM
Zeoll chuckles, and then says sincerely to Firehoof, "Thank you for telling us. This just confirrms my suspicion. Neitherr demons norr undead norr monsterrs of deadly sorrts are known forr loud burrps. All indications point to grreedy, cowardly, mischief makerrs."
The wemic agrees with those who express impatience. "Come, frriends all! The Grotto awaits."
Flat-top Thursday March 22nd, 2001 11:30:30 AM
Flat-top said to Kale, "Look at that, our friend offers her a drink and they are fast friends. That filly has no taste passing up on two wonderful males like us." Turn and agrees with Kale, " OK! let's go to the grotto. Hump! burp in deed.
Leets Thursday March 22nd, 2001 1:20:10 PM
"Well...Anyway I don't think that a demon, even one dirty enough to burp like a roar, could drink the holy wine, after all, it is HOLY..."
Leets nods at Zeoll comments, and adds:
"Even if this being was an illusion, the cowards who created it have to be physical...I think we should have a look at the place where Firehoof saw this..."
Kenisha Thursday March 22nd, 2001 2:44:06 PM
Kenisha chuckles for a bit then thinks about it seriously as she follows the others on the way to the Grotto.
"If this was an illusion, why would the mischief maker behind it make the fierce looking creature burp? Such spells have to be set up before the spell is cast. Still the giggling and lights could be indicative of pixies or some such fae creatures."
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday March 22nd, 2001 6:44:28 PM
Raorr caps the Wineskin, places it back into the back pack and says to the group "Raorr hopes it is twenty feet tall, purple and with one eye." looking at the group he continues "Raorr thinks if it is then the might of the united taur races would be need to defeat it." Shaking his head he dismisses the thought crossing his mind then says "If it is some small prank by a bored 'magical creature' Raorr think that this would be waste of time, our help would not be important our God said to sent us here for a reason and it's not to spank a naughty Pixie, Fey, or whatever you think it might be."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday March 22nd, 2001 7:44:53 PM
Kalon smiles at the description of the beasts roar as a "burp" and then falls in with the group. He continues to keep an eye onhis surroundings half expecting the "ghost, spirit or faeries" to do something just to show off.
Ceira Karwyn Thursday March 22nd, 2001 11:43:11 PM
"Burp?" Ceira repeats as if she misheard Firehoof's description. "Well, I can be too quick to judge until I see it with my own eyes. Our chances of catching a glimpse is also slim. Just look at us." She gestures to the entire group. "We are many in number and a few of us are fairly loaded up with combat equipment. If this creature is smart enough to wreck havoc for this long, then it is obviously an intelligent enough to know better than show itself while our entire troop is snooping about. Once we arrive at the Grotto, we will take a look around and get a general layout of the place. Then we should devise some sort of plan to lure the creature out."
Kale Friday March 23rd, 2001 6:17:56 AM
"We are going to the place Firehoof saw the thing Leets." Kale says. then he says to Flat-Top "Im not interested in mating with a centaur. I dont think the result of that would be very pleasing to the eye." he says as everyone begins to move to the grotto. "Firehoof, Tailtwacker, are you two coming with us?" he calls back
Day Trip (DM Donna) Friday March 23rd, 2001 7:19:15 AM
"That was brave of ya to 'fess up, lass." Tailthwacker says, nodding. "Now off with ya--I'll be showin' these here Taurs the way to the Grotto now. You need your sleep so's ya can work the night shift tonight!"
Firehoof nods and salutes her boss, moving back down the road towards the vineyard's exit. She takes a few steps, halts, then turns and bows to the party before continuing on her way.
Tailthwacker clears his throat.
"Awright--this way to the Grotto." he says, moving in the opposite direction of the younger filly.
Everyone must make a Spot check--if Zeoll fails his Spot check, he must then make a Dexterity check at -4.
Kale d20+1=18 Saturday March 24th, 2001 6:30:19 AM
Kale moves along silently with the others until he stops suddenly "Somethings not right..." he says(i think i made the spot check with an 18)
Leets d20=5 Sunday March 25th, 2001 9:43:39 AM
Leets follows Tailthwacker, impatient to see the grotto and to search for clues over there...
He's so much lost in his thought that he doesn't notice what's happening around.
Kenisha d20+3=13 Sunday March 25th, 2001 10:36:14 AM
Kenisha continues to silently follow along, deep in her own thoughts and ruminations about what they will find there.
(ooc- I don't know what the DC of the spot check was, so I don't know if I made it or not.)
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=15 Sunday March 25th, 2001 10:59:03 AM
At Kale's warning Kalon stops perhaps thinking that the what he thought was just grape vines moving might not be. Looking around he says,"Kale might be right or of course we just might be jumpier then we would like to admit" he waits watching the area
Flat-top d20+1=5 Sunday March 25th, 2001 6:41:45 PM
As Flat-top trots along side Kale, Flat-top tells him,"I see your point about Firehoof, Kale, But I could be very interested in that little filly". (ooc. Flat-top has his mind else where)
Ceira Karwyn d20=10 Sunday March 25th, 2001 8:31:46 PM
Ceira is eager to snoop around the grotto to determine the nature of this mysterious creature. She mindlessly follows Tailthwacker's lead without paying any heed to her surroundings.
Raorr the Minotaur d20-2=2 Sunday March 25th, 2001 11:57:45 PM
Raorr blinks as if something got in his eye, he shakes his head and realizes where he is "Raorr, ready to go. Lead on Tailthwacker"
Gripping his glaive tighter he snorts "To battle and glory, the creature's blood will be shed by my Glaive, only death awaits this theiving spirit."
Zeoll d20+4=20 Monday March 26th, 2001 12:14:39 AM
[out of character: I made a Spot check against DC 20 (see above). Donna, shouldn't you give us a DC so we know if we make it or not?]
Zeoll heads toward tha Grotto with the party. Ever alert, he notices something.
Great (Caesar's?) Ghost! (DM Donna) Monday March 26th, 2001 7:08:43 AM
OOC: unless otherwise stated, DC's are 15. Such is the case in this instance.
Everyone who got made 15 or better on their Spot check notices that--somehow, someway--a length of grapevine has wound itself around the paws of Zeoll! It is something that most certainly would have tripped up the wemic had he been caught unawares--and it also canNOT have happened "by accident", as all of the party was standing in the middle of the road, and nowhere NEAR the fields!
Everyone make a Listen check now--DC 12.
Leets d20=12 Monday March 26th, 2001 7:18:51 AM
Leets who was going forward to the grotto turns his head backward to see why his friends are waiting.
"What are you waiting for my..."
He suddenly turns his head in another direction, hearing something...
Kale d20-1=9 Monday March 26th, 2001 9:43:46 AM
"Im always right." Kale says to Kalon. "Look at Zeoll's foot." he says as he draws his bow. "Be careful, something is out there."
Flat-top d20+1=2 Monday March 26th, 2001 10:29:39 AM
"HUH!" Flat-top to Kale,"What are you doing with bow and arrow? What do you mean there's something out there? I don't here anything."
Kenisha d20+2=19 Monday March 26th, 2001 10:56:19 AM
Kenisha upon hearing something, and with all the talk of either a magical or magic-using entity behind all the tricks and thefts here, casts Detect Magic and starts scanning around.
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=14 Monday March 26th, 2001 7:11:23 PM
Kalon turns in the direction of the noise now very sure that something was about. He crouches in a defensive posture ready for the worst.
"Be careful Kale it may still turn iout to be nothing at all maybe even a centaur" Kalon cals to him
Zeoll d20+3=9 Monday March 26th, 2001 10:07:25 PM
Zeoll doesn't panic, but he is careful to remove the plant root completely. He is so intent on this that he fails to hear the sound.
Raorr the Minotaur d20=9 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 12:52:04 AM
Raorr yells "Raorr say, Hurry up! Must find Wine before festival." Noting that a few people have not begun to walk yet.
Apperently his yelling made it impossible for him to hear the noise.
Whispers or Wind..? (DM Donna) d20=2 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 6:38:46 AM
Those who made their Listen check hear a noise coming from the left--from the thick coils of grapevines that make up the edge of the field. The sound is so ephemeral that it's hard to say whether or not it's real...or just the breeze that stirs the vines.
"See..?" Tailthwacker says, pointing to Zeoll's tangled feet, apparently not having heard the noise. "That's the kind of stuff that seems to keep happening--and it's spookin' the manure outta the help!"
Kenisha Tuesday March 27th, 2001 10:43:32 AM
"I see what you mean, Tailthwacker." Kenisha replies.
Kenisha will continue to keep the Detect Magic up for it's full duration (ooc that's 2 minutes) while looking all around.
(ooc- please let me know what I see (even if it's magical items on the party members)
Flat-top Tuesday March 27th, 2001 12:11:29 PM
"OH! I see." Said Flat-top, as he put his hand on his mace. "Hey! Raorr! use you axe to cut those vines and we'll see what happens."
Kale Tuesday March 27th, 2001 1:45:44 PM
"We're not even in the grotto yet, and already we are encountering stuff like this." Kale says as he waits to see if Raorr is able to cut up the vines
Leets Tuesday March 27th, 2001 3:12:47 PM
As everybody seems to gather around Zeoll to check his problem, Leets comes closer too and tells Raorr and Kale:
"Hey my friends! Before cutting this vine, perhaps could we see where it leads us, no?"
Thiel d20=16 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 3:22:09 PM
Thiel hears the strange noise, and walks to the vineyard, searching for the origin of the sound. As he is carefully and prudently moving apart the vines, he suddenly seems to have found something interesting. A couple of seconds later, he comes back to the group surrounding Zeoll, chewing some grapes.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday March 27th, 2001 9:07:21 PM
"These are all pranks." Ceira adds. "They have to be..." She remains silent for a while as she stays on her guard. Ceira seems to be trembling but maybe it's just the chill breeze.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday March 27th, 2001 10:31:01 PM
"I think we're just jumping at shadows let's get to the grotto and leave the vines alone. I don't think they would like us to to going tearing apart their vineyard. Particularly when Raor has made such an impression on them already" Kalon says with a hint of amusement in his voice.
Zeoll Tuesday March 27th, 2001 11:45:05 PM
"I don't think this vine was attacking me," Zeoll says, "it was just an impediment."
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday March 27th, 2001 11:53:11 PM
Raorr stops and looks at the vine "Raorr saysk you all think to much, a vine is a vine. Not enemy, simply a vine." Noting the still shaking form of Ceira he says rudely "Are you afraidy cat or a Wemic woman? I think your kind should not be afraid of a small-itsy-bitsy vine that tried to trip up Zeoll."
Raorr snorts "If you all would not take so long getting to the grotto, the plants would not and could not wrap around your legs."
Raorr looks over to Flat-Top "This" Raising his Glaive "Is a Glaive! It is not an axe!" Lowering it again he says "Let the slow pokes worry about their own tied legs"
Raorr yells out, hoping the 'ghost' is listening, "If you want wine creature I will give it to you. If you continue with your pranks you will DIE, I care not if your pranks are meant as jokes. My tolerance is over, show yourself now or accept your fate."
To anyone who is paying attention to Raorr his eyes are getting red and he seems extremely annoyed with something or someone.
Defusing the Situation (DM Donna) Wednesday March 28th, 2001 7:59:09 AM
"There now, fella--save them muscles for when we find out what the flock is happenin' around here, okay..?" Tailthwacker says to Raorr. He clip-clops over to Zeoll and aids the wemic in removing the vine (which is not attached to anything, thus there is no way of "following it" to anywhere specific) from around his paws.
Everyone else, however, stares at Thiel--because you all notice that his horns are now festooned with daisy-chains of blossoms.
"What?" he asks, swallowing his mouthful of fruit and turning around in place to see what everyone else is looking at. As he does so, another thing becomes obvious:
There's a piece of parchment attached to the cleric's back, with something written on it...in a language nobody in the party knows.
Flat-top Wednesday March 28th, 2001 11:16:46 AM
Flat-top trots around Thiel, looking at the daisies in his main. Then Flat-top notices the parchment attacked to his robe in the back. "He He He, I'm counting the letters on this message, and I'll bet that it reads 'KICK ME.'" Fla-top to Kale Raorr and Leets.
Leets Wednesday March 28th, 2001 1:02:25 PM
A little bit disappointed, the young paladin abandons the vine since it leads to nothing.
"You have to be right wise Tailthwacker, lets go to the grotto..."
"Thiel? By all the names of Domi, what do you have on your back?"
Leets looks more carefuly to the paper, also looking from where Thiel comes back to see if there is something or somebody.
Thiel Wednesday March 28th, 2001 1:07:34 PM
Thiel, seeing that everybody looks at his horns, touches his head and feels the blossoms. Thinking that it is linked to the grapes, he spits what he can.
A little bit annoyed, he tries to grab the paper attached to his back.
"Next time I'll think of it twice before tasting anything!"
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday March 28th, 2001 4:34:49 PM
Looking at Thiel he says,"You didn't notice either of those things being put on you. We must be dealing with something invisible and very stealthy. I think something is just playing tricks to frighten people away. Maybe it is trying to take over the vineyard for some reason."
Moving close enough to Kenisha to whisper in her ear,"Perhaps we could lure it out with wine. Of course we have to be careful what we say aloud. As it could be here nearby at all times" Then moving to Zeoll he leans in to whisper,"If it is invisible it may still leave tracks maybe you should keep an eye open for tracks that aren't ours"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday March 28th, 2001 7:44:55 PM
"Harumph!" snorts Ceira as she struts by Raorr. She stops upon seeing the blossoms on top of Thiel's head. "Mental note: do not eat dinner here." She walks up to the parchment to take a look at it. Even though she doesn't understand the language, Ceira tries studying the format it is written in. She asks Tailthwacker, "Do you recognize this piece of parchment? Where might someone buy or obtain parchment such as this?"
(OOC: Is the format of gthe language in a list, a letter, or random scribbling? What about the substance used to write it? Is it ink? Is it fresh?)
Zeoll Wednesday March 28th, 2001 11:05:54 PM
"Good idea," Zeoll whispers back to Kalon, in wemic. Then, trying not to be too obvious about it, Zeoll looks around for tracks, especially where Thiel was.
Kenisha Thursday March 29th, 2001 12:44:42 AM
Kenisha twiddles her thumbs.
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday March 29th, 2001 5:11:02 AM
Raorr begins pacing back and forth about 20 yards away from the group. He appears to be trying to physically remain seperated from the group as though he is fighting an internal battle.
<<In Raorr's mind>>
In his mind a continious battle rages on as violent beastial thoughts bombard his mind. The raw fury of the ancient wars between the Taur races play through his head. Taur verus Taur fighting contsantly, continually, in a unending battle.
Raorr is there fighting trying to understand his involvement, trying to control the anger and hatred he feels toward the other Taurs for the war.
<<End of Raorr's mind>>
To those watching Raorr pace his pace quickens and he seems definetly distracted, mumbling to himself.
Can This Be Magic..? (DM Donna) d20+3=15 Thursday March 29th, 2001 6:54:07 AM
(OOC: my apologies to Kenisha's player--I'd forgotten about the Detect Magic.)
Kenisha's canny eyes note the presence of the various magic items that the God of War saw fit to bestow upon the Taurs, as all of the various magic weapons, shields and rings glow with a soft but unmistakeable aura.
As does the writing on the note that Flat-top and Ceira are inspecting! (Roll a Spot check with an extra +4 bonus versus DC 12, Kenisha.)
The writing--to those paying attention to it--seems to form two distinctive parts, which the quick-witted wemic sorceress deems to most likely be two separate words (OOC: made an Intelligence check for Ceira versus DC 15.) Flat-top counts seven characters in the first word and four in the second.
To Ceira's eyes, however, the medium used to write the words with is familiar to her, and yet she cannot specifically identify it.
Kale Thursday March 29th, 2001 9:39:23 AM
"Lets keep moving. All this stuff is happening to throw us off guard." Kale says as he begins to move
Flat-top Thursday March 29th, 2001 1:29:29 PM
Flat-top trots over to Raorr, "Come on Raorr, I think Kale is right. Lets go to the grotto, and we have to be very careful. I have a feeling that things are about to heat up and we need your help now, Big Boy."
Leets Thursday March 29th, 2001 2:21:39 PM
Leets touches the vine with the tip of his sword, as if it was some kind of dead snake, and looks around, very serious.
"I think you are right Kale...And you too Kalon. I haven't been feeling something that would be...evil around. Moreover, the thing that put THAT on Thiel's back is so stealthy...It could easily backstab any one of us, but it didn't. It looks like this thing is not ill-intentioned, and it looks more like some kind of game..."
Leets wipes the tip of his sword. Coming closer to his friends.
Thiel d20+5=15 Thursday March 29th, 2001 3:02:39 PM
Thiel, looks for a moment at the paper, but realizes that he is quite annoyed to look really carefully at it. He walks back at the place he was when he tasted the grapes, and look at the ground, searching for footprints or any other clue.
(OOC: using the Search skill)
Kalon the Wemic Thursday March 29th, 2001 10:00:37 PM
As he moves to join Raorr and Flat-top he stops by Kenisha and says,"An acomplished thumb twiddler I see. The rush to get to the grotto seems moot to me now the forces at work are coming to us but maybe we should go just to keep Raorr from hurting something." then moves toward the two that are already ahead.
Ceira Karwyn Thursday March 29th, 2001 10:31:14 PM
"I find it troubling to know how anyTHING could possibly sneak up on Thiel and put this parchment on his back." Ceira continues walking toward the grotto now.
"Don't worry Leets, we shouldn't be expecting any backstabbing or other foul play from our culprit. In all these weeks, there has been no murders committed so I doubt our culprit would start now. If it were to take one of us out, it should logically take down the toughest of our group. Namely, the towering Tailthwacker here."
"Unless of course, it believes Thiel is the most powerful of our group." Ceira adds with a playful wink.
Kenisha d20+7=16 Thursday March 29th, 2001 11:24:49 PM
Kenisha ignores Kalon's comment and takes a long look at the note. "Whatever it says, it does glow magically. Whomever put it there probably did so, not by stealth but by magic."
Zeoll Friday March 30th, 2001 12:10:18 AM
Zeoll remains alert, trying to track if there is anything to track, otherwise keeping a sharp look out. He stays near Kenisha, judging that the group near Raorr can take care of themselves.
Raorr the Minotaur Friday March 30th, 2001 12:47:39 AM
Raorr snaps out of his pacing when he notes his path is blocked by two people.
Raorr , now refocused after the long fight in his mind, says "Raorr think this waste of time. If creature choose not to hurt anyone, then it is not a problem."
He looks over to Tailthwacker "Tell your people it is only a prankster and tell them to ignore it's pranks. If it continuesd and they ignore it it should go away since it won't be getting anything out of it."
He looks back to the rest of the group "If it is a malevolent creature it will begin hurting people. So in that case we will have to continue looking for it."
He vigorously shakes the Glaive in his hand and continues "If the creature has drank the wine then all that we can do is find the creature and the empty casks/tunnes since we can not return the wine. If it hasn't drank the wine then the wine must be hidden somewhere. A tunne is quite large and obviously is not in the open. Therefore we should look for the tunne and not the creature, if we find the tunne then we find it's hiding spot and possibly a clue as to it identity."
He looks again back at Tailthwacker "Is there an area on the grounds or just outside that is not regularily patrolled or looked at that could potentially store or hide the missing wine?"
Clues Abound! (DM Donna) d20+6=10 Friday March 30th, 2001 7:10:11 AM
Thiel finds no evidence of any footprints or other signs of tracks on the ground where he'd gotten the rather delicious grapes.
Kenisha determines from the fading aura of the writing (plus her knowledge of Spellcraft) that the writing was, indeed, generated through magical means, but not itself magic.
It also looks vaguely familiar to her, though she still doesn't understand what it says.
"Well...if we're all done with this jokester," Tailthwacker says stiffly, "Then the Grotto is still THIS way..." The foreman turns around and, once more, starts to trot off down the path towards the party's original destination.
Kale Friday March 30th, 2001 9:18:08 AM
Kale follows Tailthwacker down the path. he moves up next to him and aske "How many tails have you thwacked in you lifetime?"
Flat-top d20=9 Friday March 30th, 2001 3:08:01 PM
Flat-top is now taking things more seriously, He follows Kale amd he's alittle bit ahead of Kale. Searches along the way but really not seeing anything.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday April 1st, 2001 11:26:05 AM
Kalon hurries along with the group watching for any strange movements in the bushes or anymore moving plants.
Kenisha d20+6=20 Sunday April 1st, 2001 12:11:04 PM
Kenisha studies the note and it's magical aura as she follows behind the others.
(ooc-she's using spellcraft to try and determine the school and relative strength/level of the magic. If this what the other roll was for then just ignore this one. :)
Leets Sunday April 1st, 2001 2:42:16 PM
Leets follows the group in the direction of the grotto. From time to time, he suddenly looks in his back, hoping that he will take by surprise the "stealthy one".
Thiel Sunday April 1st, 2001 2:47:57 PM
Thiel is quite disappointed not to find a clue about the one that put the paper on his back. He follows the group that goes to the grotto, looking at the grapes in the fields with a slight grimace on his face.
Ceira Karwyn Monday April 2nd, 2001 12:18:38 AM
Ceira notices Kenisha is focusing intently on the piece of parchment and walks up next to her to await any new discoveries. While walking, Ceira remains silent to avoid disrupting Kenisha's concentration.
Zeoll Monday April 2nd, 2001 12:22:27 AM
Zeoll tries to think back. He had a bard friend who sometimes wandered where Zeoll's clan roamed, and this bard was always telling stories. Zeoll seems to remember that some of the fey folk were fond of wine. Maybe too fond, some of them.
As he follows Tailthwacker to the Grotto, the wemic looks for signs of fey -- things out of place, mischief of any sort. And he wonders how one catches an invisible sprite.
Raorr the Minotaur Monday April 2nd, 2001 1:30:52 AM
Raorr seems to finely get his way as the group moves forward.
He steps up to the front adjacent to Tailthwacker, and walks at his pace.
Here Be The Grotto (DM Donna) Monday April 2nd, 2001 6:33:07 AM
Kenisha's grasp of Spellcraft tells her that the magic used to generate the note was not of a particularly high level.
"How many, lad..?" Tailthwacker addresses Kale's question with a smirk. "TOO many to count in my 71 years of living...but I can always add a tail or two more..." His glowering glance at the minotaur thief might have made Kale wary, but then the foreman winks and grins. He's only joking, it seems, but Tailthwacker's found something to admire in the wry Kale.
The pathway ends in a T-shaped intersection. Tailthwacker waves a casual hand towards the right.
"That way be the bottling building and storage," he tells you, "Over here to the left is the way to the Grotto." The centaur heads left, walking along at a good clip and nodding to the various field hands that salute him or otherwise pause to stare at the mixed group of Taurs that the foreman is leading through the vineyard.
"And here..." Tailthwacker says, "...be the Grotto..." His muscular arm sweeps around to indicate a very lovely, pastoral area that consists of a circle of grass with a 45-foot radius. There are wildflowers and other such fragant, low-growing plants here, too. The sun shines down through the ring of spindly but tall specimens of lacelattice trees that surround the Grotto in a solid circle.
Solid except for the archway that the path leads up to, that is. The archway is made of a few dozen woody vines growing together in a twisted mass in a breath-takingly beautiful, natural "doorway" that is about twenty feet wide by twenty-five or so feet tall.
Kenisha blinks as the group approaches the Grotto...the sunlight here is so strong and dazzling that--for the briefest moment--she could have sworn that the archway glowed. But when the sorceress glances around to see if her Detect Magic spell is still in effect, she can no longer see the auras of the magic items that she knows the party possesses. The spell must have expired.
And the archway doesn't "glow" now.
Everyone make a Spot check versus DC 15 to notice that the vines that make up the arched entrance to the Grotto have no leaves or greenery growing on them. If you succeed in your Spot check, you get to make a Wilderness Lore check--also versus DC 15--to notice something else strange about the vines.
Kale d20+1=14 Monday April 2nd, 2001 7:35:46 AM
not reconizing anything unusual about the vines, Kale asks Tailtwacker, "What part of the grotto has had the most disturbances? That would be the ideal place to start."
Zeoll d20+4=15 d20+8=14 Monday April 2nd, 2001 10:13:42 AM
[OOC: Made the spot check exactly; missed the wilderness lore by one, alas]
Zeoll declares to the group, "Look! The vines that make up the arrched entrrance to the Grotto have no leaves or grreenery grrowing on them."
"What mannerr of plant is this, Tailthwackerr? And please do tell us the storry of this Grrotto. Does it prre-date the vinerry? How did it get herre?"
Zeoll has not entered the Grotto yet. It seems sacred and special to him, and the place for stories and questions is outside, not within its holy circle.
Leets d20=7 Monday April 2nd, 2001 5:26:51 PM
Leets looks at the archway, amazed, his eyes sparkling like a child.
"I've never seen such a thing...You can say whatever you want Kenisha...There is a some kind of magic in this place..."
Leets still look at the grotto for a couple of seconds, forgetting what happens around him, almost hypnotized.
Flat-top d20+1=14 Monday April 2nd, 2001 5:58:31 PM
" Huh! what leaves? NIce archway." Flat-top look around to see if there's anything out of the ordenary.
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=19 d20+1=10 Monday April 2nd, 2001 7:23:45 PM
"Ah! You're right Zeoll. That certainly is peculiar." replies Ceira. "Hmm... why do you suppose that is?" She looks down at her paws to check and see if any vines have wandered over to where they stand. "You all mentioned vines were moving earlier. Do you suppose..."
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=6 Monday April 2nd, 2001 8:41:04 PM
Kalon mesmerized by the beauty around him fails to notice the group slow down by the archway and continues on into the grotto. Oblivious!
Kenisha d20+3=20 Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 12:51:20 AM
"Yes, very odd about the vines... I could havve sworn that the archway glowed there for a moment, but my spell has ended already... Very odd." Kenisha says as she looks about.
Leaves? What about Leaves...? (DM Donna) d20+2=19 Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 7:32:58 AM
Tailthwacker squints at the vines that make up the archway and his eyes widen.
"There's never been no leaves on this arch...but now that you've asked about it--these here vines don't come from the grapes...not from the ones that we grow around here anyhow!" the foreman says with a harrumph. "Funny how I've never noticed it before..."
Kalon walks into the grotto, his eyes falling upon first this group of fragrant flowers, then that fluttering butterfly of vibrant red and yellow. It's rather nice in the Grotto.
Kale Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 9:18:04 AM
pulling his hood over his head, Kale enters the grotto and examines one of the strange vines
Zeoll Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 10:24:37 AM
Zeoll prays quetly for a moment, in wemic. "Great Tomi, guide us as we enter one of your sacred places."
Than he enters the Grotto and reverently look around.
Flat-top Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 1:03:26 PM
Flat-top watches Kalon walk into the gotto and he's mesmerized by a Red Butterfly. Flat-top find this very strange,*Better keep an eye on Kalon,He just might get into trouble,* Then Flat-top follows Kalon into the grotto.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 4:50:46 PM
"Look at that beautiful butterfly!" comments Ceira. "Red is my favorite color you know."
"Oops, sort of distracted there for a moment." smiles Ceira. "So Tailthwacker, could you point out a few locations where the rumors originate from? We should get started in our investigation soon."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 8:06:13 PM
Mesmerized by the beauty of the grotto he follows the lovely red butterfly where it seems to want to go. "Perhaps this is a clue" he thinks to himself,"It's as close to a clue as anything he'd seen. Since arriving he had only found more questions. He hoped the others had some ideas on how to find the culprit or culprits"
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday April 4th, 2001 12:07:21 AM
Raorr enters in to the grotto noting the vine he looks at the vine.
"What special about vine, it like other one, better move it before someone gets hurt."
With that Raorr grabs the vine and starts to try pulling it down, if it resists he'll cut it with the Spiked gauntlets.
Kenisha Wednesday April 4th, 2001 12:49:05 AM
Kenisha just rolls her eyes at Raorr and follows Zeoll in.
Gambol in the Grotto (DM Donna) d20+2=15 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 7:34:03 AM
Tailthwacker chuckles indulgently at Ceira.
"Find out where rumors originate???" he says with a grin. "You GOTTA be kidding, right? That's like trying to trace which li'l grape got into that skin of wine you're carrying!" The foreman then shrugs. "I'll do my best to track 'em down, but don't expect miracles...people just LOVES to talk."
Raorr inspects the vines that make up the archway--there are about a dozen or so of them, and they are VERY thick and all twined together in almost a solid mass. In fact, due to his knowledge of Wilderness Lore (and the DM's roll for him), the barbarian sees for himself that the vines are very, VERY old and that it would be impossible to pry one away from the others without running the risk of completely ruining the rest of the rather pretty archway.
The sun-dappled expanse of grass and flowers that is the Grotto is serenaded by the chirping of insects and the occasional tweeting of birds in the trees that surround the area.
Zeoll d20+8=10 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 9:34:39 AM
Zeoll listens to the birds and wishes he could talk with one. He whistles and uses his Animal Empathy ability to get a little songbird to perch on his finger [OOC - that's the roll above].
Whether he succeeds or fails, he says, "Tiny birrd, if only you could tell us what you saw herre."
The wemic tries to get a sense of the natural and sacred aura of the place. He tries to sense any recent intruders. He looks for tracks. He uses his Nature Sense (druid ability) and wilderness lore.
Kale Wednesday April 4th, 2001 9:35:10 AM
bored looking at the vines, Kale wanders around a bit, looking for anything interesting at all
Flat-top Wednesday April 4th, 2001 10:49:35 AM
Flat-top walks around and puts one arm around the shoulders of Kale, and sings to him ~Pritty~Birdy~~In~the~Vines~~Makes~A~Very~~Pritty~Sound~~."How's that Pal."
Leets Wednesday April 4th, 2001 4:04:14 PM
The young Paladin doesn't really know where to look exactly, walking under the arch and spinning to look all around.
"This place has to be blessed by a god..."
Leets turns to face his friends.
"We have been talking of fairies, demons...but no gods...Aren't we?"
Thiel Wednesday April 4th, 2001 4:08:32 PM
Thiel walks to the arch, putting his hand on the vine, as if he could feel it better by touching it. He then looks at Zeoll and his bird with a slight smile.
"I wish even wood could talk, my friend Zeoll..."
He contemplates the arch from under it during a couple of seconds.
"...you can be sure that those vines would have much to tell."
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday April 4th, 2001 10:26:26 PM
Ceira smiles just shrugs her shoulders at Tailthwacker's comment. "It's worth a shot. Well then let's start snooping around. First of all, this purple thing flies. Assuming it didn't just appear out of nowhere, let's begin by checking the trees to look for any hiding places or maybe even a nest of some sort?"
Kalon the Wemic Thursday April 5th, 2001 12:09:29 AM
Kalon finds a place to sit down and enjoy the beauty of the grotto,"I don't think we're going to find anything here. I think our adversary is presently in control. I think we can only wait for it or them to make a mistake" he says to the group. He sits at a loss to figure out what the group is expecting to find in the grotto
Kenisha d20+3=13 Thursday April 5th, 2001 1:14:07 AM
"I agree Ceira, let's look around." Kenisha replies. She trots in a bit further and starts searching around.
<ooc- that's what the roll is for.>
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday April 5th, 2001 3:10:41 AM
Raorr looks at the limp Vine in his strong hands, a feeling comes over him suddenly feels tired.
He looks into the grotto and notes Kalon's sitting form and decides he has the right idea.
Raorr walks over to the Wemic and stabs the Glaive's shaft into the ground and take the saddlebags off his back and places them on the ground. He removes the sheath from the belt and places it on the ground beside the bags, and then he sits down.
"Wemic, you look comfortable I hope you don't mind but I want to get a quick nap before I accidently kill a centaur. Please wake me when the horrible, invisible creature attacks, or when something important happens."
With that said the minotaur named Raorr leans back to rest his head on the bags, cautiously he runs his hand over the bags before resting his head on them, hoping to remove the prank the spirit may have placed on it.
I Spy with my Little Eye... (DM Donna) d20=20 d20+3=14 d20+3=12 d20+2=19 d20+2=6 Thursday April 5th, 2001 7:24:29 AM
Zeoll's skills as a druid become very evident as a pretty little green and blue bird glides over to him and fearlessly perches on his finger. The tiny avian seems very interested in the wemic.
All the other birds singing in the area shut up when Flat-top's serenade begins...his Performance is actually quite good (OOC: rolled a 20!) and all the wildlife in the area apparently wants to hear it, even if Kale himself may or may not be too thrilled with it.
"Gods..???" Tailthwacker echoes Leets' words in an awed voice. "Ya don't think that actual GODS are involved in this, do ya???" The likelihood of that is clearly disturbing to the foreman.
Kalon and Raorr repose without incident. Kenisha and Ceira begin poking around the area of the Grotto, the wemic sorceress nudges the centaur and points to something on the ground.
"Hoofprint...but...does it look strange to you..?" Ceira asks, uncertain. Kenisha peers very closely at the hoofprints in question.
"Heyyyy...I think Ceira found a clue!" the centaur sorceress announces. "Hoofprints...but look..!" Kenisha carefully puts one of her own front hooves beside the impressions that the wemic found. "It's way too small to belong to a centaur!"
Indeed, anyone who looks can see that the discovered hoofprints are only half the size of Kenisha's own.
Kale Thursday April 5th, 2001 7:58:15 AM
"You sure are weird sometimes." Kale says to Flat-Top as he goes over to the footprints. after examining them closely he turns to Ceria and asks "Think you can track whatever made that print?"
Flat-top Thursday April 5th, 2001 12:07:02 PM
"Well, not exactly weird." Said Flat-top to Kale,"just nervious, LOOK! Ceria found a hoof print." Flat-top follows Kale.
Leets d20+3=11 Thursday April 5th, 2001 3:59:00 PM
Seeing everybody looking at Ceira's discovery, Leets gets closer, studying the hoofprint. The young Paladin was a herdsman for some time in his hometown before following his mother's example, so he tries to compare the hoofprints to those of all hoof-creatures he knows.
"Well..I'm not sure, but it makes me think of...a goat, or some kind of sheep...What do you think of it?"
Thiel Thursday April 5th, 2001 4:11:17 PM
Thiel tries to remain aware of what's happening around while everybody seems distracted by the hoofprints.
He looks beyond the arch of the grotto, trying to see what can be hidden over there...
Ceira Karwyn d20+3=12 Thursday April 5th, 2001 7:28:39 PM
"Well Kale," replies Ceira. "I was lucky enough to discover these tracks but I am a sorcerer by trade. I don't suppose we have anyone with Ranger skills among us? Zeoll, you're a... Oh how cute!" she squeals. "Look at the little birdie on your finger!" She realizes how foolish she sounds and quickly regains her composure. "What was I saying? Oh yeah... you're a Druid so I don't suppose you could come over and take a look at this hoofprint?" Ceira also kneels a little lower to take a good look at the hoofprint. (OOC: General Knowledge roll... or would a Wilderness Lore roll be more appropriate in this case?)
Kalon the Wemic Thursday April 5th, 2001 8:10:09 PM
Turning to Raorr as he lays there Kalon says,"I think you might have an idea there but if we all go to sleep then nobody will be able to watch for the "monsterous ghost worm sent by the fey to irritate centaur vineyard workers" I'll just move over here so I can watch when they tie flowers onto your hours and put makeup on your face" Kalon gets up and wanders over to where the footprint is.
When he looks at it he asks Tailthwacker says,"Could it be a young centaur maybe two young lovers meeting for a rendevous" turning to the group he adds," or perhaps we are being watched by the culprit as we speak and he put something here because we expected to find something"
Raorr the Minotaur Friday April 6th, 2001 12:17:20 AM
Raorr hears Kalon comment and chuckles.
"Perhaps, but I will rest since I have no patience for stupid tracks. They probably are young centaurs."
Raorr lays back and looks at the clouds and tries to listen to the wind. relaxing as much as he can.
Kenisha d20+2=13 Friday April 6th, 2001 12:47:43 AM
Looking over her shoulder at Raorr, Kenisha says, "No, these aren't centaur tracks. They look more like.... well I'm not too sure...."
(ooc- the roll is her Wilderness Lore- i don't think she figured it out, but I could be wrong ;) )
Zeoll Friday April 6th, 2001 1:06:14 AM
Zeoll takes a look at the tracks and tries to identify them.
Legend & Lore (DM Donna) Friday April 6th, 2001 7:24:50 AM
Everyone bothering to inspect the tracks must must a Wilderness Lore check versus DC 18 to classify the type of track. So far neither Ceira nor Kenisha can quite place it--could be a young or small-sized centaur (the centaur equivalent of a midget, I suppose)...or it could be something else.
Anyone attempting to Track where the hoofprints came from and/or went to must make a Tracking check versus DC 15. (If you don't have the Tracking skill, though, you can't make the check.)
Zeoll d20+9=13 d20+8=17 Friday April 6th, 2001 2:13:43 PM
Zeoll prays for guidance from great Tomi [OOC: casts 0-level Guidance spell], but he is unable to identify the hoofprint [failed first check].
Then he tries to track the unknown creature, and sees the path the hoofed being followed [made second check].
"I don't know what this is," the wemic ranger says, "but I know which way it went! Follow me!"
He walks carefully where the tracks lead him.
Kale Friday April 6th, 2001 7:47:39 PM
"Im not a tracker." Kale says, "But I think we should find someone who is before we start following these prints. Kale says to Zeoll
Ceira Karwyn Friday April 6th, 2001 11:11:41 PM
"Ahh... like I said," says Ceira. "this is definitely within Zeoll's capabilities. Let's go! One clue is better than no clue at all."
Kenisha Saturday April 7th, 2001 12:26:34 AM
Kenisha grins at Ceira, "Too true, friend, too true." Then she carefully follows beind Zeoll.
Flat-top Saturday April 7th, 2001 4:44:23 PM
"I'm not a tracker either, but I'll follow the females."said Flat-top, and troted off with Ceira and Kenisha.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday April 8th, 2001 11:42:19 AM
Going over to where Raorr is laying he nudges him,"We're going to follow the trail Zeoll found are you staying behind?" he keeps an eye on where the group goes while waiting for Raorr to respond
Raorr the Minotaur Monday April 9th, 2001 1:36:22 AM
"Raorr go, someone must keep the children alive."
RAorr gets up and begins to collect up his gear brushing off the grass or anything that might have fallen on to the gear. he does a quick check to make sure no hole are in his pack and grabs his weapon and follows the train of Taurs following the tiny little itsy-bitsy 'Non-Centaur' tracks. hoping it leads to something that he can finally kill or at least beat up until it stops scaring the centaur of the vineyard.
"RAorr ready to go"
Tracking Down the Clue (DM Donna) Monday April 9th, 2001 6:50:09 AM
Zeoll eagerly begins to follow the tracks into the trees, the party just as eagerly following him. SO eagerly, in fact, that everyone must roll a Reflex save or become entangled in the underbrush that seems to just suddenly grow up around your feet and entangle you.
All who don't make their Reflex save versus DC 15 will find thems tripping because their sudden Entanglement into the mud puddle that you could all just swear was NOT there a moment ago...
Kale d20+7=19 Monday April 9th, 2001 10:00:21 AM
"Good job, Zeoll," Kale says as he easily avoids the bushes. "You led us right into a mud pit."
Flat-top d20+3=11 Monday April 9th, 2001 10:19:57 AM
Flat-top, who should have paid more attention, TRIPS over some vines and falls head first into the mud. Comming up for air,"GLUB! PATUIE!@#^%%*&$" said Flat-top. As he gets up and shakes of the mud.
Kenisha d20+2=4 Monday April 9th, 2001 11:58:57 AM
Kenisha also ends up tripping into the mud, worse than Flat-top. "We're on the right trail, but I can't say that I like it."
Leets d20=19 Monday April 9th, 2001 12:33:06 PM
Leets looks one last time to the hoofprints, wondering if he saw it before, and finally decides to follow Zeoll who seems more aware to this kind of things than him...
"But what's the..."
As he follows the group, Leets begins to turn and dance from one hoof to another, avoiding to sink into the mud that strangely try to catch him. He tries to find a more "solid" place, and takes his staff on his side.
"Hey Kenisha, try to grip this!"
Thiel d20=2 Monday April 9th, 2001 12:40:43 PM
Thiel follows the little group, wondering what kind of creature they will find at the other end of the track. Perhaps will it not be so evil, and after, "it" was supposed to steall the vine...Perhaps did it even had something to eat? Thiel is somehow lost in his thoughts, and realizes too late that he is entangled in the mud. He poorly tries to move one leg, but falls head first on the wet ground...
He tries to stand up, spitting some mud:
"This has to be some kind of divine punishment!"
Raorr the Minotaur d20+1=17 d20+5=14 d20-2=3 Monday April 9th, 2001 2:15:31 PM
Raorr seems not to fall for the prank and looks around grabbing Kalon before he accidently falls in.
Angrily Raorr says "Creature you will pay for this and every prank you pull. I will personally rip any wings you might have off your back and cook them. Raorr will tie you up an dip you in honey while still living and throw you into a nest of bees if you continue these pranks."
OOC (first roll is Reflex save as reqquested, second roll is a grapple check vs. Kalon, third roll is a spot check)
Zeoll Laughs and Chants Monday April 9th, 2001 5:56:02 PM
[Before my computer crashed, I had rolled a 1 on my reflex save!]
Zeoll trips, and the little bird on his shoulder chirps madly as it flies away. Zeoll sprawls fantastically, landing face down in the mud! After a moment, he resurfaces spluttering. And since he was talking as he fell, he has to spit out a mouthful of mud. He takes a round to wipe the dirt out of his eyes and to shake his mane.
The large wemic continues to shake, but now the group hears that he is chuckling. "Prride goeth beforre a fall," he laughs, "and I certainly have led my prride, if I may so call you, my brother and sister Taurs, beforre this fall!"
If any of the Taurs in the group seem mad or upset, as Raorr does, Zeoll will quietly offer some advice. "Whateverr is testing us, they have caused no one any harrm, except to the ego. Yourr angerr only amuses them the morre -- to show angerr is to give them victorry. We must trreat with these mischief makerrs in kind, and not trry to avenge ourr wrrongs orr injurre them."
Then Zeoll calls out in a loud voice, "A jolly jest, my playful frriends! You have given me a betterr laugh than I can rrememberr when! Perrhaps I can rreturrn the favorr and offerr you a trrifle to make you smile."
The wemic uses his Ring of Cleanliness [a minor magic item awarded by Jerry] to get tidied up. And he offers his bar of Magic Soap [another Jerry item] to anyone else who could use it. Then he digs around in his pack and takes out his drums. He plays his drums for a little while, and then he chants:
"To win yourr wine frrom kin of mine "With din and shine is sin forr thine "So grrin and in design be fine."
"If in yourr hearrt and gut you long "Forr sacrred wine and happy song "Then come as frriends and join along "For frriends can sharre and trrade is strrong "While theft, you know, is weak and wrrong."
"To win yourr wine from kin of mine "With din and shine is sin for thine "So grrin and in design be fine."
"Come forrward, frriends, and with us sharre "And by my honorr I declarre "That we will meet in peace and prrayerr "Ourr storries fairr we will comparre "So may we forrge a frriendship rrarre."
"To win yourr wine frrom kin of mine "With din and shine is sin for thine "So grrin and in design be fine."
Zeoll pauses, still playing gently, to see if there is any response.
[ooc: my Perform is +5 and my Diplomacy is +7, if it helps.]
Kalon the Wemic d20+4=5 Monday April 9th, 2001 8:57:55 PM
As Kalon continues following the group he notices that there are vines twisted around his feet. Then as Raorr bellows out again he's startled and loses his footing. Raorr apparently trying to grab him only causes he him to jump away from Raorr afraid the slightly crazy minotaur thinks he's the pranksome creature. Completing twisted up now he tumbles into the puddle face first. A bubble emerging from the mud sounding like a sigh he just lays there.
Can It Be The Breeze..? (DM Donna) d20=18 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 7:01:48 AM
Raorr stands alone (well, almost, because Leets stayed on his feet, too)--angrily challenging whatever it is that it causing these not-so-funny things to happens.
A sharp gust of wind blows through the landscape, bringing with it the sound of...
...giggling?
(OOC: I made a sort of group Listen check for you, so everyone DEFinitely hears the sound.)
The sound, however, is so whispery that it could just as well have simply been the sigh of the wind...and yet something in your very bones convinces you that it wasn't...
...oh, all right--you're PRETTY sure it wasn't.
It takes the party a few minutes to disentangle themselves from the grass and vines that entwined their legs and to generally brush or wipe the mud off of themselves.
Everyone roll a Spot check versus DC 15, please--Zeoll may use his Wilderness Lore bonus on the roll.
Kale d20+1=17 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 9:58:18 AM
(sorry, it was me that posted wrong earlier; i fixed it) Kale moves away from the mud and vines and concentrats on locating where the laughter is coming from(made spot check)
Flat-top d20+1=20 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 11:45:21 AM
(OOC:made it,and I wished i could get 20 when I'm fighting.) After getting up out of the mud and trying to run the goo off. Flat-top picks up his hear and listen. "HEY! Mr. Kale are you snickering at me? No you would have a deeper roar to your voice." Then turn to the party and ask,"Can anybody else hear that sound?"
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=22 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 12:32:27 PM
(OOC: Wow, I can almost see my room at our homebase! ^_^)
"RRRROAR!" roars Ceira as she gets up and tries shaking off the mud. "Argh! I'm absolutely filthy now! Once I get my paws on them, I'll... I'll..." she trails off in an attempt to stifle her anger.
"Thanks Zeoll. I think I will take up your offer on that soap as soon as I get a chance to rinse off." As Ceira begins wiping away the chunks of mud and entangled vines in her mane, she notices something out of the corner of her eye. She momentarily pauses as she watches on.
Leets d20=13 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 3:03:25 PM
Leets helps his friends to get up, but is still too busy to avoid the vines that he doesn't see from where the sound came from.
Thiel d20=1 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 3:09:17 PM
OOC: Thiel must have heard something very strange...
"Calm down Ceira...I probably have even more reason to find the creature than you or Raorr for it really had a lot of fun with me..."
Thiel tries to clean his clothes as well as he can, still thinking of Zeoll's chant.
"You're right my friend, it's better to keep cool-minded and laugh of our adventure than to make another mistake by turning angry..."
Raorr the Minotaur d20-2=17 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 4:57:19 PM
Raorr looks upset still "Reason you want reason to hunt this creature. It has stolen scared Wine, it's pranks only fuel the anger that beats in my heart!" Looking around he tries to note the important details around him.
"Let it feel it's winning let it feel victory, for when my blade impales his laughing corpse he can laugh his way to the abyss." Raorr snorts "It should begin praying to its gods now cause its time grows very short."
Raorr looks down at the still form of Kalon , Raorr pokes Kalon with his glaives shaft "See this one's dead now just as I was feeling protective about him.
"Raorr will find you where ever you hide creature, pray to the gods creature that they be kind and grant you a quick death"
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday April 10th, 2001 7:49:08 PM
Kalon lays there quietly in the mud unmoving.
OOC: Kalon will be holding his breath and laying very still.
Kenisha d20+3=9 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 12:44:07 AM
Kenisha starts to giggle as she stumbles out of the mud and vainly wipes at the mud still clinging to her.
A Game of Clue (DM Donna) d20+8=26 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 7:09:35 AM
There seems to be NO response to Zeoll's very-well-done performance.
Those making their Spot check notice that the tracks that Zeoll had been starting to follow are now quite obscured by the rearrangement of the grasses and underbrush that entangled almost everyone. Now it is impossible to be 100% sure of where they lead. However, Zeoll is still pretty certain that they were going in the direction of the bottling facility.
Kale's eyes, as sharp as they are, still cannot see anything in the direction that the giggling came from. You all hear the clomping of heavy hooves behind you and a loud--though hastily covered-up--guffaw.
"See..?" Tailthwacker (who hadn't followed the party into the grotto, but come at the sound of yelling) says firmly. "This is EXACTLY the sort of stuff that's been happening--an' when it does, you might almost see something or even hear something...but not when you try to go LOOK for it! Then it's just--POOF!--empty air!"
Kale Wednesday April 11th, 2001 9:19:15 AM
listening to Tailtwacker gives Kale an idea. "Im heading to the bottling factory." he tells to everyone either trapped in the mud or helping them out in a loud voice. he draws a dagger and without waiting for anyone else to respond, begins sprinting towards the building
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday April 11th, 2001 11:47:17 AM
Raorr kneels down looks at KAlon's still form.
"Kalon I will avenge you, and this unfortunate death that happened."
Raorr looks up to Tailthwacker and then to the group, you see this creture is evil servant of evil gods with malevolent goals, this noble Wemic has done nothing to it. YOu say this creature might be playing prank on us and that I should not be anrgy with it." Raorr pounds his shaft down into the mud. " This creature has earne dmy wrath now, I had considered letting it live without wings or legs or what ever it use to move. But now it will die a life for a life."
He stares at Zeoll, you think this is a camp out, a little sing song, this is reality. Get with it. We are at war, the mission is to unite the taurs not put them asleep. If you want to sing sing a song that will help, not one that deals with trying to be friends with the enemy."
He looks over at the Sorcerers "I did not want to ask before, but what magics can you do. CAn you bring the dead back to life? Or speak with the dead."
Leets is the target of RAorr's next question "You are right about this being divine punishment, it is punishment for the group's slow progression. We have swayed to far from our mission we have let the creature lead us around. It is time you take control and lead the group on our holy quest, if you do not feel you are capable of doing so say so now before another is killed."
RAorr looks around for Kale "I see Kale has left us again. You have complained when I wanted things to move faster before but this is going to get him killed I'm not fast enough to kep running after him, Flat-top and Theil you two should catch the Roguish KAle before he kills himself on a vinee, or falls into a tar pit."
"Our efforts so far have been follow the leader this must stop." He stares at Tailthwacker "you are right old centaur about one thing, but we never mentioned hearing anything, what are you trying to pull centaur? are you in league with it? Are you trying to stop the festival?"
Raorr looks sucspiously at the Centaur.
Flat-top Wednesday April 11th, 2001 11:58:55 AM
"Yeah! What Roarr said"said Flat-top,"your right." then Flat-top is off after Kale to bring him back.
Zeoll Wednesday April 11th, 2001 2:00:42 PM
Zeoll is amazed. "Kalon trripped in the mud and died?!?"
The wemic takes a close look at his fellow wemic. His first priority is to administer first aid. He will cast a Cure Light Wounds if he thinks it will help. Ditto binding wounds. [His untrained Heal is +3, Sense Motive is +3, and Spot is +4.]
If Zeoll believes Kalon is dead, he will turn to Roarr and say, "You arre corrrect, good minotaurr. We must worrk togetherr to rright this wrrong!"
If Zeoll believes Kalon is alive, he says to the rest of the group, "You big ninnies! He's not dead! Herre, help me get him on his feet!"
Leets Wednesday April 11th, 2001 3:57:55 PM
Leets is quite confused by Kalon's death and Raorr's words.
"Raorr, your words sound like those of a brave warrior and I understanf that you want to avenge the death of our friends, but torturing the thing that did it would mean that we aren't better than it...I also want Kalon's death to be avenged, but IT SHALL BE ACCORDING TO THE TAUR'S LAWS - Am I clear enough?"
"Now, Taurs, the game went too far, and it has ended. We will take the direction of the bottling facility, and find this thing...This time, there must be no trap, no trick...The best thing to do to my mind is to send a group forward, the other group will closely follow. The first ones will look FORWARD, while the others will keep an eye on our backs, this way one group can help the other if there is some kind of problem..."
The young paladin looks at Zeoll.
"How is Kalon my friend, is he wounded, is he, well...?"
Leets waits for Zeoll's answer. -If those are good news, he will move forward, calling to him the "first group". -If Kalon really has a problem, he will use his lay on hands ability.
Thiel Wednesday April 11th, 2001 4:05:17 PM
Thiel falls on his knees in the mud by Kalon's side. He will put his ear on Kalon's mouth to check if he is still breathing or not. If he finds that he isn't, or if he doesn't look fine, he will use his heal skill.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday April 11th, 2001 5:15:43 PM
"What!?" replies Ceira as she watches everyone gather around the still carcass that was once Kalon. "Surely, it wasn't just the fall that ended his life... Everybody, STOP!" shouts Ceira. "There is the possibility that Kalon may have died of a potent poison injected by one of the vines. How else could he have expired with such an instantaneous and painless death? This is a possibility because we know little to nothing about the vegetation on this property. I just want you all to be careful when you are trying to diagnose the symptoms of his demise. Poor... poor Kalon..." she adds with the slow shake of her head.
"No Roarr, my arcane feats are incapable of resurrecting another soul. Judging by the determined look on Zeoll, our fate lies in his hands." Ceira angrily slams her right fist into her left palm. "Whatever this thing is, just make sure you save some for me Roarr..."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday April 11th, 2001 7:01:55 PM
Kalon continues to lay in the mud unmoving not responding to anything the group is doing to administer his wounds.
While in his mind he thinks,"We will see if this thing, this prankster has a conscience."
OOC: I will continue to lay still unbreathing as long as I can and not responding to anything as best as I can. If they do something that forces my response I suppose I will have to respond but I am trying to play dead. I will even continue to hold my breath to the point of taking subdual damage.
Kenisha d20+3=15 Thursday April 12th, 2001 1:37:46 AM
Kenisha immediately stops giggling the moment that Kalon's condition is made known.
To Raorr she says, "The magics of healing are not those learned by mages, but by clerics and druids. Nor can I detect poisons. But once we've found whomever had so greiviously injured one of our own, I shall do I part to see that jsutice is done."
Then she kneels on the other side if Kalon and feels for a pulse (ooc- that's what the roll above is for).
Somebody...Call 911!!! (DM Donna) d20=4 d20=6 Thursday April 12th, 2001 8:42:12 AM
Tailthwacker becomes VERY alarmed.
"Holy Rolling Rock!!!" he bellows. "We need to get some help for that guy! The boss ain't gonna like THIS!!!" The foreman turns around and gallops off down the road as fast as his hooves can carry him.
Anybody checking up on Kalon can tell that the monk is faking his state of "death"...it's up to the individual person now as to whether you're going to go along with it.
Flat-top and Kale--who are running in the direction of the bottling building--must make a Deterity check versus DC 15...without the benefit of their Dexterity bonuses, because they are in such a hurry that neither of them see the nearly-invisible vine stretched across the most direct path towards their destination. Failing the Dex check means you trip (again!) and take 2hp damage falling forward at a fast rate of speed into more underbrush.
Flat-top d20=14 Thursday April 12th, 2001 2:01:02 PM
Flat-top was galloping after Kale. Flat-top was almost next to him. When Flat-top trips on a vine that stretch across the path. With arms flailing, he falls flat on his left side and in his hand, he has Kale tail. and Flat-top is holding on for dear life.
Kale d20=6 d20+3=16 Thursday April 12th, 2001 5:46:34 PM
when Flat-Top reaches out for him, Kale is momentarly distracted and trips, but he tucks his head in and is able to roll through the bushes without taking any significant damage(made tumbling skills check) he jumps back on his feet, but instead of continuing his running, he stops and helps Flat-Top up. "Know we know where this prankster is." Kale says
Ceira Karwyn Thursday April 12th, 2001 6:14:00 PM
Ceira's eyebrows shoot up when she realizes what Kalon is up to. She quickly wipes the expression off of her face and does her best to put on an sad look. Without saying anything that might ruin the scene, Ceira crosses her arms and waits in silence as if in mourning.
Kalon the Wemic Thursday April 12th, 2001 9:23:33 PM
Kalon continues to lay very still unbreathing hoping the others catch what trick he trying to pull on the prankster.
Kenisha Friday April 13th, 2001 12:50:48 AM
Kenisha sighs as she pulls her hand away from Kalon. Looking mournful, she looks from Ceira to Zeoll. "He's dead alright. Our prankster is now officially a murderer."
Standing back up, she looks around; looking sad and angry.
Raorr the Minotaur Friday April 13th, 2001 4:17:27 AM
Raorr rubs his chin for a moment "Perhaps there is a way Leets, to bring Kalon back to life." Raorr stands up looking around but "I don't think it will work. It goes back to ancient times of the united Taur empires, it invovles a prayer to Domi." He counts the remaining people left one at a time "We have enoughpeople but, the killer must participate, that will be the problem. It works only if the killer repents his crime and offers blood of his own to the deceased. Domi would accept the life energies from the blood and return the spirit of the deceased to the body." Raorr shakes his head "Of course without the killer it won't work, and I doubt the creature is the type to have remorse, if it was a good creture it would but this puposeful trap shows no mercy, no feelings. I believe Kalon is lost to us, farwell Kalon."
Raorr takes a wineskin from his backpack and takes a sip, offering the wineskin to others "Here let us celebrate his life, and drink to him"
Good Night, Sweet Prince... (DM Donna) Friday April 13th, 2001 6:59:37 AM
As the party stands around and "mourns" their "deceased" comrade...
...the sun shines, the birds sing, and the Wold keeps turning.
Zeoll Friday April 13th, 2001 9:30:41 AM
The wemic priest raises his voice in a prayer. "Grreat Tomi, guide all of us, including ourr frriend Kalon, in the path of wisdom and peace."
Flat-top Friday April 13th, 2001 12:48:35 PM
Flat-top look into his hand and Yells,"YEIPS! Honest Kale I didn't mean to rip off your tail?". Then Flat-top takes a good look into his hand and it's only a vine with a little moss on the end. " Woo! I thought I thorn your tail off." Flat-top takes Kale's hand and gets up on all four and tell Kale,"I think your right, the grotto is not the place to look right now. I think we'll find more clues in the bottling plant. And we should keep an eye on the Centaur with the clip board."
Leets Friday April 13th, 2001 5:58:13 PM
"I'm not sure we will need this kind of ritual Raorr...Kalon seems to be...ehr...just to need to be buried according to our traditions..."
Leets discretly nods at his friends so that at least a couple of them goes to the bottling facility.
"I will stay by the side of our poor fellow and pray for his soul"
Leets bows down by Kalon's side, planting his sword just before him (so that he can take it easily if neaded). The young paladin discretly looks around him and hear carefully, in the case something would come...
Thiel d20=15 Friday April 13th, 2001 6:09:24 PM
(OOC: I rolled for Thiel's check for Kalon's breathing, It should be ok, no?)
Thiel first wonders if Kalon wasn't just knocked out by his fall. He then realizes that he really has no injuries... He stands up, scratching his head, wondering what to do...
"Well...I fear I can't do anything more for him..."
As seriously as he can, Theil joins his hands and closes his eyes...
"May your soul rest in peace my friend...Perhaps would you have prefered to fall on the battleground, our defending your ideals...In a way you did brave Kalon..."
Thiel suddenly turns in the direction of the bottling facility, almost laughing. He will try to remain as serious as he can on his way...
Kalon the Wemic Sunday April 15th, 2001 12:18:02 PM
Kalon continues to lay quietly unmoving and unbreathing.
Kale Sunday April 15th, 2001 2:04:25 PM
Kale nods at Flat-Top. "I agree." he says simply, then he yells to the others. "Lets go! Your not doing any good just standing there mourning our lost friend. Now is not a time for sadness, now is a time for revenge!" Kale says as he starts moving towards the bottlery
Kenisha Sunday April 15th, 2001 10:31:31 PM
"Kale!", Kenisha admonishes the minotaur, "Don't be so callous. Kalon is dead and deserves to be mourn properly."
To Leets she asks, "Do you wish company in your vigil? I shan't be offended if you do not."
Raorr the Minotaur Sunday April 15th, 2001 11:42:25 PM
Raorr also remains by Kalon's side.
He remains silent.
Leets Monday April 16th, 2001 5:56:25 AM
"He was your friend too Kenisha...He would be happy if you were praying for the rest of his soul..."
Leets remains for a couple of minutes by Kalon's side, his lips moving silently as he prays.
Thiel Monday April 16th, 2001 6:00:20 AM
Thiel follows Kale and Flat-Top, looking carefully where he walks and around him (even if it makes him walk more slowly...).
"Let's go my friend, we have to find our invisible ennemy, I have one thing our two to tell him..."
A Moment of Silence (DM Donna) Monday April 16th, 2001 7:16:45 AM
As the party draws out its little drama, there is nobody or nothing else in their immediate area that reacts to it, though. Only the background sounds of the native wildlife--coupled with the distant echoes of the workers in the fields--can be heard.
If Kalon wishes to continue to remain motionless and holding his breath, he must roll a Constitution check versus DC 18.
Kalon the Wemic d20+2=8 Monday April 16th, 2001 7:49:24 PM
Kalon lays quietly struggling to maintain his motionless and unbreathing form. Spots begin to flash behind his closed eyes, his lungs seem about to burst. Finally despite his feverent desire to keep holding his breath he can hold it no longer. With a loudexhalation the stale air in his lungs burst forth and then he struggles to fill his lungs with fresh air. Gasping deeply he begins to breath. Glancing around at his gathered companions through gasps he say,"Im sorry my friends...my deception has failed...to draw the culprit out" he sits up looking mournful, gulping at the air and dissappointed in his failure. "I must learn more control of my body" he thinks to himself
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday April 17th, 2001 12:40:43 AM
"By Domi's Grace Kalon you live again." Raorr yells in surprise, but it quickly disappears even more anger crosses his face. "Now the creature plays tricks on us and our dead companion. What foul dark magics is this! A creature that brings the dead back to life" Raorr raises his glaive and prepares to strike the Wemic down. "Die spawn of darkness, I will not let you foul my friend's soul. Not while my heart still pumps the blood of the Ancient Taur People."
Kenisha Tuesday April 17th, 2001 12:42:36 AM
Kenisha rubs Kalon's back. "It was a good try and a worthy prank to play on our prankster."
Zeoll Tuesday April 17th, 2001 2:17:06 AM
Zeoll, who was having philosophical doubts about the whole idea of faking one's death, is relieved to see Kalon back on his feet.
He says to Raorr calmly and softly, "Good minotaurr, Kalon's tactic was a rruse. He was neverr dead. Come now, my frriends, let us join the otherrs, who have gone off toward the plant."
The wemic does his best to shepherd everyone together -- while trying to be careful of trippings and other tomfoolery.
Flat-top Tuesday April 17th, 2001 3:48:17 AM
"COME!Taurs, I think Kale is right. All these pranks was to slow us down. Who ever it is, Really don't want us at the Bottling Plant right now." said Flat-top. Turns and gallop off after Kale,"Wait for me, Kale."
The Bottling Building
And They're Off! (DM Donna) Tuesday April 17th, 2001 7:06:24 AM
The short journey to the bottling building is--after everyone avoids that vine that tripped up Kale and Flat-top--uneventful. The building itself has a moderate amount of traffic going in and out of it...the wine production, though reduced by the mysterious events occurring on the premesis, still continues.
You approach the building, an old but sturdy stone structure (a rarity in a city made of whishtal tree structures!) that has an area for loading the delivery carts directly in front of two twenty-foot wide openings in one of the walls. About a dozen or so centaurs are in the midst of loading five-gallon barrels--tuns--of wine onto a cart. They are so busy that they do not seem to notice you.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:23:39 AM
Whether Ceira is discovered or not is of no concern to her. She casually walks towards the docking bays and will remain silent to avoid disturbing the centaur's work. Ceira intends to get close enough to peek around at the ceiling details. Perhaps there are niches in the structure that allow for hiding places for flying creatures.
Flat-top Tuesday April 17th, 2001 11:52:29 AM
"Well, we have hard workers here. Hmmm!How shall we go into the plant, by the frount door or by the loading platform?" Flat-top ask Kale.
Leets Tuesday April 17th, 2001 1:57:24 PM
Leets walks to the workers and begins to help them loading the barrel onto the cart.
"Hello Taurs! It looks like you have a lot of work today! Well, at least it's a good thing, it means that your vine is good!"
Once he has finished, Leets will look around to see if there is anything strange...
Thiel Tuesday April 17th, 2001 2:02:28 PM
Thiel walks with Ceira, looking at the building. As he looks at the barrels and tastes the deep smell of vine, he feels that his throat begins to be quite dry. "No Thiel...You had enough troubles...You won't taste anything more...Well...Not today at least...No...Not until we caught this thing..."
Thiel sighs and tries to focus on the building.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday April 17th, 2001 7:48:05 PM
Without cleaning the mud from himself he goes with the group. He does keep a watchful eye on Raorr incase he goes after him and a watchful eye for the creatures.
OOC: Kalon will not fight with Raorr if he decides to go after him instead he will be totally defensive.
Kenisha Wednesday April 18th, 2001 12:08:33 AM
Keeping herself between Kalon and Raorr (as well keeping an eyes on the minotaur) she says, "Come on, let's catch up to the others."
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday April 18th, 2001 2:04:08 AM
Raorr notes the Kalon's watchful eye, and then Kenisha's 'watchful' eyes.
HE realizes that it must be Kalon. Only this group has such a fascination with keeping there eye's on Raorr. He lowers his guard, and says "I'm glad to see Domi has only knockked the wind out of you KAlon, perhaps next time someone might tell me what's going on"
The Mystique of Celebrity (DM Donna) Wednesday April 18th, 2001 6:58:37 AM
When Leets greets the workers, those closest glance his way--and do a double-take when they see the rest of the mixed party. Work immediately grinds to a halt as the centaurs nudge each other, whispering and/or pointing at the non-centaurs of the party. Everyone is curious...and some of them are less than happy to see minotaurs in their vineyard...but after the initial shock of seeing the group, the workers more or less go back to their assigned tasks.
Except for the mature female centaur that trots your way. She has a medium-brown coat, dark brown hair & tail and brown eyes. She responds to Leets by speaking in Tauric.
"Greetings, servant of Domi," she says politely, "Is all a-right with you? Tailthwacker came galloping by, braying about going for help from the Clearspring Temple..." Here the mare eyes the none-too-clean Kalon. "...he seemed sure that one of your number was...um...dead...?"
Kale Wednesday April 18th, 2001 9:14:44 AM
"The front door, Flat-Top." Kale says as he walks up to the female centaur. "We're here on offical bussiness. We need to inspect your institution here." Kale says as he moves past her into the bottling plant
Flat-top Wednesday April 18th, 2001 11:28:38 AM
"OK!But wait for me, Kale." Flat-top said,"I don't want you to have all the fun." Flat-top motions to the rest of the party to follow them. Then into the frount door they go.
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday April 18th, 2001 12:36:50 PM
"You and Tailthwacker have been mistaken." Motioning to Kalon "This one fell into the Mud and was knocked out cold. He must have hit a stone or something."
A frown crosses his face "You would not have happened to have caught an invisible prankster around here would you?" shrugging his shoulder knowing full well it's pointless to ask anyways
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday April 18th, 2001 2:35:47 PM
"So many centaurs..." Ceira mumbles to herself as she shudders at the fact that there are so many around them... like in the city. She could use a good pastry to distract her again.
Ceira puts on a weakly smile and walks up to the female centaur. "Good day... Umm..." Ceira gestures for the centaur to insert her name. "My name is Ceira Karwyn and as you may already know by now, we have come to help. So let's not waste any more time here and let us have a look around."
Leets Wednesday April 18th, 2001 3:37:43 PM
The young Paladin stands by Ceira's side.
"My friend Ceira is right " he says to the new female centaur "we came to help about those strange stories of ghost and...well...you know. Perhaps would it be better not to talk much of this now, for the thing could be around listening to us..."
"My name's Leets, and I'm ready to serve, in one way or another..."
Thiel Wednesday April 18th, 2001 3:41:47 PM
Thiel gets closer and looks at Kalon.
"Are you sure all is right my Wemic friend? It looks like you fell very badly...You should begin by cleaning yourself, we could then check if you are wounded or not..."
Zeoll Wednesday April 18th, 2001 8:13:51 PM
Zeoll moves around from place to place slowly and carefully outside and inside the building. He uses his Spot, Listen, and Track skills to try to find signs of invisible creatures. He is polite to anyone who addresses him, but he is also intent on discovering a clue.
Kalon the Wemic Thursday April 19th, 2001 12:34:22 AM
Looking at Thiel with a half smirk,"No I'm fine Thiel just a bad idea is all." then turning to address Thiel, Raorr and Kenisha,"I really do not think we will find this creature no matter how hard we look. He is in control of what we are doing. Letting us see what he wants us to see and playing us for fools. We must find someway to draw him out my friends"
Kenisha Thursday April 19th, 2001 1:20:28 AM
"Perhaps you are right, Kalon. The only thing I can think to draw him out is wine. But if we fail and he gets away with the wine, we'll look very bad with the centaurs here."
The Search is On (DM Donna) Thursday April 19th, 2001 7:58:45 AM
Flat-top and Kale move northward, towards a heavy wooden door instead of going eastward towards the large open doorway just beyond the pair of carts that are being loaded with wine for delivery to some customers of the vineyard. The female centaur throws them an odd glance, but turns her attention to Leets and nods.
"Yes...we heard that your group was here to look into the wild rumors flying about here." she says. "As far as I know, nobody who isn't supposed to be here at Bottling has been by. Your friends are going into the field records office, so you'd probably better go with them before they scare the socks off old Meerhoofen." The centaur returns to her work of helping to arrange the casks of wine on the wagons.
(OOC: I'm sending along a map of the Bottling Building layout via email.)
The party is standing in a courtyard/loading area, west of a pair of carts that are obviously the delivery vehicles for the vineyard. The carts are well-used but sturdy-looking, and are constructed so that four centaurs can pull the wagon about once it's ready to leave. To the north of the party is a single, centaur-sized door that must lead to the field records office that the female centaur had mentioned.
Other than the occasional curious look from the workers, the centaurs seem to concentrate mostly on getting their jobs done.
Kale and Flat-top, whichever of you two posts first will be considered the Taur who enters the field records office first. Whomever does so will see a centaur-sized desk in front of a wall of filing cabinets. There are two doors in the northeast corner of the office--one leads north, the other east. There is also another centaur in here--an older female whose light brown coat and mane are liberally dappled with gray. She looks up when the door opens, staring at you through a thick pair of spectacles.
Zeoll Thursday April 19th, 2001 9:56:55 AM
Zeoll walks around the entire building on the outside, looking for clues. Has anyone been by? Does he see any small centaur tracks, like he did before? Any secret entrances that he notices? Windows? And does he sense any invisible creatures?
If he finds nothing, Zeoll will enter the building and look around inside.
[OOC: Search +1, Spot +4. Listen +3, Track +8]
Flat-top Thursday April 19th, 2001 10:58:29 AM
Flat-top feeling a little frisky today' opens the wooden door and turns to Kale "Apreay Vous". Then walks into the building a head of Kale. "Hello there beautiful."
Kalonthe Wemic Thursday April 19th, 2001 7:46:58 PM
Looking at Kenisha Kalon says,"If we find nothing, if the creature continues to lead us around by the nose, if we fail at what may well be the first test of our god...we will look foolish and perhaps our mission has ended. We must stop reacting and act instead not that I am sure how we can do that but it is essential"
Kenisha Friday April 20th, 2001 12:31:09 AM
"The only thing I can think of is that we guard the wine that is still here. Mayhaps we can do what the guards here couldn't. I agree that we don't seem to be getting very far in investigating these thefts and pranks."
Raorr the Minotaur Friday April 20th, 2001 1:35:42 AM
"That sound like good idea, Kalon" Raorr licks his finger and tests the sharpness of the glaive he holds. "I'll go inside and start destroying things, it might not work but then I won't be angry anymore."
With that Raorr starts to jog into the building looking for something to destroy, carve, break etc.
Whether he sees something to wreck or not Raorr will start yelling and screaming swinging his Glaive wildly around trying to cleanse the building of Evil Spirits. HE will aim at walls, doors, tunnes, barrels, and anything else all the while saying I'll catch you, there's no where to run now creature" In between yells he'll laugh like a maniac.
Leets Friday April 20th, 2001 3:20:39 AM
Seeing Raorr entering the building with obvious intentions, Leets smiles at the female centaur he was talking to, and runs after the minotaur.
"Raorr my friend! What's your plan? Whatever is the thing that makes fun of us, It looks like it is quite smart...We'd have better be clever and find something intelligent to do rather than to frighten it while it's around and let it go away..."
Thiel Friday April 20th, 2001 3:27:56 AM
Thiel nods at Kenisha. "That seems to be a good plan, the main problem is that this thing is really stealthy...What would you think of putting dust or something alike on the floor where the wine is kept? We have already seen that the thing left hoof steps, so we could see it again..."
Inside the Bottling Building (DM Donna) d20+1=8 d20+4=16 d20+3=23 d20+8=13 Friday April 20th, 2001 7:14:37 AM
The mare in the office smiles winningly at Flat-top.
"My, but you're a handsome st--" she simpers, but then her eyes fall on the face of the ever-charismatic Kale, and the blood drains from her face. Before continuing to speak, the older female crosses her heart--a gesture known to both Taurs as a way the more superstitious (or religious) followers of the God of War ward off evil.
"I am Meerhoofen." she says in a business-like voice. "I am the caretaker of the field records...I take it you two are part of the contingent sent by the Temple to aid us in exorcising the vineyard of the evil spirits or the monsters or whatever is plaguing our business..?"
Zeoll's investigation of the outside of the building turns up something very interesting: he spots several sets of footprints that seem to come from and return eastward...and they are NOT [i]hoof/i]prints...they are FOOTprints...humanoid footprints by the look of them.
Zeoll follows the prints to where the fence that rings the Surefoot Vineyards defines the property's easternmost border...but the footprints seemingly disappear into/beneath the sturdy wooden barrier.
Meanwhile, once Raorr's ritual starts, the employees that are busy loading the carts cease all activities and gather (at a safe distance) to watch the show, many with rounded eyes and much whispering and pointing amongst them.
Zeoll Friday April 20th, 2001 8:02:27 AM
"Eureka!" Zeoll thinks, "We *are* looking for human-like creatures!"
He looks even more closely at the prints, trying to determine the size of the creature that made them. "Hmmm," he thinks, "if they are smaller, then I might suspect some kind of invisible, two-footed fey. If they are larger, then humans might be to blame."
He also tries to determine if the tracks are deeper than one would expect. "Deep footprints might indicate that the creature was carrying a heavy load. Although I am hard-pressed to imagine a tiny fellow carrying a tun of wine."
Then the wemic has a sobering thought. "Of course, I have to keep in mind the possibility that these footprints are a trick too -- just as the small hoof-prints we saw earlier were a trick. But then, I haven't been tripped or pranked yet, so maybe these are legitimate."
"I wish I had the nose of a bloodhound," the wemic continues to himself. "Then I might be able to track by scent, or tell the race by smell."
He looks at the wooden wall. How tall is it? He thinks about jumping over or climbing. He looks to see if there is an obvious gate nearby, or a secret one right where the prints pass through.
He continues to be alert, aware that invisible folk could be nearby.
Zeoll mentally memorizes the place where the footprints cross the property line. He would like to return to the spot after communicating his discovery. Then he follows the tracks back to the building. He notes where the prints enter the building. Then he gives out a liontaur's roar:
"MY FRRIENDS!! MY FRRIENDS!! COME HERRE!"
After at least a few members of the group arrive, Zeoll says in Taur, "Comrrades, Grreat Domi has blessed us with a clue. If a couple of us choose to stay herre to prrotect the wine, that might be wise -- but I ask that a few of you please trrust and follow me."
After Kalon and Ceira arrive, he continues in his own Wemic language. "Let me say this in Wemic so that no invisible spies will understand my words. I have found tracks of a creature with two human feet that lead to the edge of the property. I would like to leave the grounds and see where they lead." He then continues, in Wemic, and tells everything he has discovered, sharing all his thoughts and musings.
Flat-top Friday April 20th, 2001 11:09:17 AM
Flat-top bows from the waist,"Good day my Beautiful Mare". Then turn to Kale,"I see that you made a good inpression with the female Centaur here,Hmm Kale?" Then Flat-top hears Zeoll calling,"Come on, Kale! I hear Zeoll Calling, soung like he found something." Then went out again.
Kenisha d20+2=9 Friday April 20th, 2001 1:23:13 PM
Kenisha's eyes get real big as she watches Raorr bellow and swing his glaive about like a madman.
"RAORR!! What are you doing!?!?! You're more likely to hit an innocent bystander than you are to hit an invisible prankster!"
(ooc- the roll is to see if she can hear Zeoll over both Raorr and herself. I think not. lol)
Kale Friday April 20th, 2001 2:51:19 PM
Kale was about to say something nasty to the old maid, but instead he follows Flat-Top out the building. while on his way to where Zeoll yelled out, Kale stops when he sees Raorr acting like a madman. "What are you doing?!?" he yells at Raorr
Raorr the Minotaur Saturday April 21st, 2001 1:51:27 AM
Raorr continues swinging his weapon, plesed he's gathered all the people's attention.
In his mind he hopes for two possibilities by this actions: 1st and least likely, he hopes the culprit is present and finds this activity funny and begins to laugh, allowing others to hear it. the 2nd and more likely of the two, he hopes to catch a theif in the act. In between wild swings he glances over to the now un guarded cart/wagon hoping to spot a theif trying to steal the newly loaded wine. Mentally Raorr congratulates himself on this genius of a plan.
Raorr continues his wild swings and when someone approaches he swings in their direction using his natural reach and the weapon's reach.
He attempts high swings and powerful slices, using his strength to cause great damage.
Raorr continue to yell out random threats and curses to an unseen foe.
Ceira Karwyn d20=17 Saturday April 21st, 2001 11:20:05 PM
(OOC: Listen check to hear Zeoll over Kenisha.)
Watching Raorr go into his frenzy, Ceira slaps her forehead and shakes her head disappointingly. "Oh boy, this'll really look good in Domi's eyes. What is that wild minotaur up to? Because if he--"
Ceira hears Zeoll's call and without a second thought, darts off in his direction.
When she arrives, she listens to Zeoll's Wemic relay of information and nods with approval. "Excellent find Zeoll," she says in Wemic. She listens to the ruckus that Raorr is making in the building before continuing in Wemic. "It seems they're pretty tied up at the moment. Well, let's see if we can continue tracking those clues you found."
(OOC: If any doors or secret gates are found, Ceira will mentally prepare the Open/Close spell in her head in case it is locked)
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=19 d20+1=7 Sunday April 22nd, 2001 10:17:31 AM
Watching Raorr perform his "ritual" he smiles in amusement then turns to Kenisha,"Just let him do what ever it is he's doing. Everytime he does something like this we all try to stop him. I know precious little about minotaur rituals but if we stop him we are treading on his way of life. Trying to enforce our view of being civilized on him. How can we unite the races if we cannot overlook one strange minotaur. Let us instead concentrate on keeping those innocents you spoke of from harm" Kalon makes sure that the centaurs are staying well back and out of danger as best he can hoping Kenisha helps him out.
When he hears Zeoll's call (Listen Check of 19) he moves closer to Kenisha so she can hear him,"I think Zeoll has found something I think at least one of us should stay here with Raorr. Perhaps our wandering around in a group is also giving our adersary an edge. If there is only one then he can only be playing pranks in one place at a time. If he can do things in two different places that means there may well be more then one. Why don't you go your magic powers may be of more use to the group I'll stay with Raorr"
If Kenisha leaves Kalon will stay keeping an eye on Raorr so he doesn't hurt anyone (including himself). He will also be trying to keep an eye out for the culprits to pull anything (Spot Roll 7)
Leets d20=9 Monday April 23rd, 2001 4:15:45 AM
Leets, as he tries to talk to Raorr, cannot hear Zeoll's call (rolled a 9...). He moves here and there around the minotaur, trying not to stand in the way of his weapons. When the centaurs workers move closer, he spreads his arms and pushes them backward:
"My friends, this is some kind of Minotaur ritual, from what it looks like at least...The best thing to do would be to go outside, so that nobody is hurt..."
Thiel d20=12 Monday April 23rd, 2001 4:20:22 AM
Thiel barely hears Zeoll's call with Raorr's show...He shakes his head, looking at his friends to understand what happens with Zeoll... He looks one last time to Raorr, shakes his head and walks to the centaurs workers.
"Greetings my centaur friends! Do you know where I could find some flour in the vineyard?"
An Exorcise in Deduction (DM Donna) d20+4=14 d20+1=5 d20+10=23 Monday April 23rd, 2001 6:37:17 AM
At Kalon's and Leets' urging, the centaur workers--while not dispersing--do maintain a safe distance from the barbarian as he continues his foray into the realm of the exorcist. A centaur or two manage to tear their eyes away from Raorr long enough to shrug and tell Thiel in Tauric that there might be some flour over at the main house.
Zeoll's attempts at discerning a secret door in the fence (think a 10-foot-tall stockade-type fence) yield results: one whole ten-foot-wide section actually pivots on its post, so that there's a pair of five-foot-wide openings that can easily allow human-sized creatures in and out of the grounds. Beyond the openings in the fence is the semi-wooded property that the vineyard is located near.
Zeoll's Tracking skill tells him that the humanoids have traveled deeper into those woods.
Zeoll d20+8=25 d20+4=9 Monday April 23rd, 2001 7:47:30 AM
[OOC: If I am not mistaken, Ceira, Flat-top, and Kale have responded to my call. Probably Kenisha or Kalon, too, Kenisha's choice. Leets, Raorr, and Thiel have not.]
In Wemic, Zeoll also tells Ceira (and Kalon if he is there) about the secret door and tracks into the woods.
Zeoll goes over to Kale and whispers quietly in his ear. "Prrobably you arre the best able to follow us, so please let me ask you a favorr. If I'm splitting us up, I don't want leave half of us out of the loop."
Continuing his whispering, Zeoll tells Kale, "I trracked humanoids frrom the building to a fence. I found a secrret doorr they used to escape into the woods. I want to follow them. Please whisper this to Leets, Thiel, and Rraorrr. Then stay with them, or follow us, or lead them to us. Thank you, my frriend."
To the rest, he simply says, "Let's get moving. keep alerrt for leprrechauns!"
The wemic priest leads anyone who follows to the secret door in the fence, which he opens and leaves open. Then he continues to track the footprints [track roll 25!]. As the group follows the tracks, Zeoll tries to keep alert for ambushes and invisible beings [spot roll 9].
Kale Monday April 23rd, 2001 9:25:13 AM
"I think this is a bad idea." Kale says to Zeoll. "But ill tell the others and follow as quickly as I can." then he goes over to Leets and Thiel. "We need to calm that monster down. Zeoll found a hidden door that leads deep into the forest, and there were small footprints all over the trail." he whispers to them. "We either make him listen to us, or we leave him behind." Kale says as he points ot Raorr
Flat-top d20+1=20 Monday April 23rd, 2001 10:50:28 AM
(OOC: I rolled for Spot) "Well we split company here, Kale,"said Flat-top,"But if we get into trouble, WELL! hurry so you can have fun too." Them he follows Zeoll to where ever (Zeoll's)his nose leads them.
Kalon the Wemic Monday April 23rd, 2001 8:20:15 PM
Kalon continues his vigilance of watching Raorr perform whatever it is he performing.
If he sees Kale moving to interrupt Raorr he will move to intercept him and say,"Leave him be and go help Zeoll I will stay with Raorr he will only continue to be a hinderance to your investigation with his actions so let him be"
If Kale doesn't approach Raorr he will just continue to look for mischief making creatures and keeping bystanders safe.
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=18 Monday April 23rd, 2001 9:03:31 PM
"Why do you suppose there are human tracks here?" wonders Ceira. "We must be miles from the nearest human civilization! They would have to restock their supplies during their journey here so surely some taur would have spotted them. Or perhaps this is also a ruse? Based on some of my assumptions, I am willing to bet on the latter. Stay sharp fellow Taurs."
Ceira continues following Zeoll while keeping here eyes peeled for traps or other unusual features in the terrain. (OOC: Spot check 18)
Raorr the Minotaur Monday April 23rd, 2001 10:03:02 PM
Raorr continues his weapon dance, still focusing on his intitial intentions.
Kenisha Tuesday April 24th, 2001 12:43:03 AM
Kenisha trots up as Ceira speaks. "Humans? Where?"
Divide and Conquer (DM Donna) Tuesday April 24th, 2001 7:20:14 AM
Raorr continues his brand of exorcism, with Kalon keeping an eye on him, Leets working crowd control, and Thiel questioning some of the onlookers.
Zeoll easily follows the trail left by the humanoids through the forested area, leading the rest of the party through the woods--which, according to Ceira's sharp observations--is either an untended "wild wood" or neglected by whomever owns it, for the trees in this area are not pruned or shaped at all, and the underbrush abounds.
The party in the woods treks for almost half a mile before the tracks lead them out of the forest and onto a wide dirt road that runs roughly north-south, where the tracks disappear into a melange of other tracks that pepper the surface--hoofprints and the odd set of wagon wheels as well as various types of wildlife that have crossed the road. (Look...chicken tracks! ;D)
Zeoll is pretty sure that the humanoid tracks started heading southward towards this road before it becomes impossible for him to follow them any longer. A strong breeze originating from the south brings the unmistakeable scent of the sea with it.
Flat-top Tuesday April 24th, 2001 10:25:12 AM
"Hmm! Very intresting, Zeoll. I never seen human tracks before. Do we head south? or do we wait for the others?" said Flat-top,"As for me, I'd wait at the Bottling Plant and set a trap, We don't know how many they are. Anybody else have any ideas..?"
Leets Tuesday April 24th, 2001 4:02:07 PM
Leets looks at his friends going outside and then at the centaurs workers.
*Hum...We really can't leave Raorr alone here, or there will be troubles...Well, I would prefer to run after our hiden friend, but since some of us have to remain here...*
Leets crosses his arms on his chest, looking at Raorr performing his show. He still be careful so that no worker gets closer to Raorr's weapons.
"Tell me when you have finished, my minotaur friend! I feel like we still have some things to do..."
Thiel Tuesday April 24th, 2001 4:09:06 PM
Thiel puts his hand on Leets' shoulder, and looks at Raorr.
"Good luck young paladin, I just need to go at the main house, I'll be right back..."
Thiel then leaves the building and takes the direction of the main house, looking around in the case he would see something, gently smiling as he thinks of Raorr.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday April 24th, 2001 7:33:55 PM
Kalon makes his way to where Leets is standing and says,"You know if you wish to try and catch up with the others I will stay here and watchout for our minotaur friend. The party may need your leadership and wisdom. Leave Raorr to dance around"
Zeoll d20+8=12 Tuesday April 24th, 2001 10:23:44 PM
At the dirt road to the sea, Zeoll pauses and looks at his friends.
"Well, therre is nowherre else forr us to go rright now. I suggest that we rreturn to the vinyard to rregrroup. Laterr we may choose to go togetherr along the rroad to the sea, but therre is no trrail to follow, and I feel nerrvous leaving the centaurrs alone with Rraorrr!"
Zeoll smiles, and leads the group back to the vinyard. As he goes, he tries to figure out how old these tracks are and how many beings made them [wilderness roll above -- 12 only].
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday April 25th, 2001 12:08:26 AM
"Well Kennisha," says Ceira in Wemic. "Zeoll has spotted some human or humanoid footprints back at the bottling plant. Unfortunately as you can see..." she gestures to the road and the sea. "We cannot track them further. So much for a good clue." sighs Ceira.
"Hmm... These overgrown woods apparently hasn't been pruned and maintained very well. With the low frequency of the centaur presence, this place would certainly make a nice hiding place for any mischeivious pranksters or thieves."
Kenisha Wednesday April 25th, 2001 12:41:41 AM
Kenisha follows after the others. "I think we need to gather together all the wine at the vinard that we can in to one spot to guard it. While others of us patrol the area."
Raorr the Minotaur d20+1=17 d20+1=19 Wednesday April 25th, 2001 1:35:54 AM
Suddendly with out warning Raorr falls silent and stops his activity, freezing in an ackward spot (rolled 16 balance check (17-1 for armor check penalty), his arms fully extended, the glaive embedded in a wall.
He snaps his neck towards a centaur, his eyes narrow, a terrible grimace crosses his bovine-like face. Raorr gets himself balanced normally leaving the glaive in the wall. He raises his left gauntlet, pointing a finger at the centaur.
"You, centaur know where it is don't you?" Raorr threatenly points his finger to another centaur "You are his accomplice!" Raorr begins to approach the centaurs, he clenches his fist, pulling back in preparation to swing at one of them. "TELL ME who paid YOU! Tell ME who told YOU to look the other way, while they stole the WINE!! Tell me are else!" (Rolled 19 a for Intimidation check)
The Drama of it All..! (DM Donna) d20=1 Wednesday April 25th, 2001 6:32:00 AM
Zeoll's skill at Tracking and Wilderness Lore tell him that there were at least two different humanoids, with as many as eight...but the exact number escapes his ability to divinate.
The party members that went with the canny druid follow him back to the site of Raorr's efforts--just in time to see the barbarian use his brand of Intimidation on one of the spectators in the crowd of impressed centaurs.
The centaur in question, faced by the fearsome minotaur who's just stuck a glaive into one of the sturdy thick walls of the stone building, reacts instantly to Raorr's demand--by crumpling into a dead faint!
Kale Wednesday April 25th, 2001 6:42:15 AM
tired of Raorr's actions, Kale walks over to where his glaive is embedded in the tree and pulls it out. tossing it on the ground, he says to him "Your pretty brave, picking on farmers and handymen. If your so eager to fight, why not try someone your own size." he says as he throws off his hood, revealing the numerous scars and tattoos that are etched on his face.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:29:12 AM
Sensing there could be a problem arising Kalon moves to a position between the Raorr and Kale. Turning sideways so he can see and address both at once he says,"Stop this right now both of you we are not here to fight one another. We are here on a mission to unite our people a mission given to us by our respective gods. Raorr stop playing the fool I know you are smarter by far then you pretend and Kale stop playing the antagonist you are part of as well"
OOC: If either attacks, charges or uses a missile weapon Kalon will try to intercept taking the shot. He will not attempt to stop anyone from hitting him should either decide he is preventing them from getting at each other
Flat-top Wednesday April 25th, 2001 1:07:36 PM
"Geesh! That was effective, Raorr. Pick up your cleave." said Flat-top. "Now! Kale, your having fun with out ME?" Flat-top trots over to the prone centaurs,"Hmm!Good job. Now we have a very good clue and we will need every body's help. So let's get ready to move."
Kenisha Wednesday April 25th, 2001 1:34:13 PM
Kenisha rolls her eyes at Raorr and kneels down by the collapsed worker and tries to revive him/her.
"It's all right, we won't let the big bad barbarian hurt you. He's really not that bad, he's just not use to dealing with civilized folk."
Leets Wednesday April 25th, 2001 4:11:51 PM
Leets walks forward, putting himself between Raorr and the collapsed worker.
"Now it is enough Raorr...Don't forget who's our ennemy and who are the victims..."
Leets keeps his eyes locked on Raorr as long as he stands in front of the worker.
"I think that you need to walk outside for a while..."
Thiel Wednesday April 25th, 2001 4:14:32 PM
Thiel whistles as he still walks in the direction of the main house. He lifts and shakes his hand as he sees his friends coming back, but still keep walking...
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday April 25th, 2001 10:00:51 PM
"Look Raorr..." Ceira walks up to stroke the minotaur's mane in the hopes of soothing his nerves. "I'm sorry if it seems like we are all getting on your case. It's just that... well... if we keep this up, we are actually more dangerous to these centaur workers than those mysterious tricksters are. Afterall, those pranksters only stole wine and they never actually hurt anyone. There must exist some goodness in these thieves since they are not using any malicious tactics. We should show our thieves the same amount of respect and avoid violence if necessary."
It is highly unlikely that a minotaur would be attracted to a wemic but Ceira tries the 'Beauty and the Beast' tactic by putting her charm to work. She bats her eyelashes and puts on sad puppy dog eyes as she looks at Raorr expectantly.
Zeoll Wednesday April 25th, 2001 10:59:13 PM
Zeoll figures that everyone else has Raorr well in hand. The wemic hangs back and keeps a close eye open. He watches for anything that seems extraordinary or suspicious.
Raorr the Minotaur d20+5=15 Thursday April 26th, 2001 5:09:07 AM
The moment Raorr realizes Ceira strokes his mane, Raorr attempts to grab her wrist (Touch attack rolled a 15), he looks down at her. "Don't try that if you need your hands to cast spells" If he gets a grip he'll toss her hand away. If not he'll step away.
In either case bends down Raorr grabs his 'cleave' (or Glaive) giving a stare at Kale, "Watch your words Kale, you might eat them sooner than you'd like to." Raorr snarls "I don't plan on killing any centaurs, or wemics, but I have no hesitation to kill a fellow Minotaur. Especially one who tries to goad me into attacking them." He turns his back to Kale and looks at Kalon, ignoring Kale and any reaction he takes or makes to his comment. "You're correct Wemic I am more intelligent than I let on, but violence can get results where Leets' sugar-coated words and Zeoll's awful song's don't get results. I prefer a simple direct path to follow with a specific enemy, not some semi-real, magical ghost. I don't care if it's a kind creature or not, if it knows it's bothering someone and continues to do so" Raorr pauses giving Kale another glare "Then it gets hurt, I will not accept it's idea that it is a prankster. A Prankster does not steal, a theif steals. A prankster does not cause bodily harm, like nearly drowning a person, that's attempted murder. In my eyes it has crossed a line from humour to criminal."
Raorr checks the wall and the damage he's caused. Turns around again looking at Kale "And before you open your yap, and say something stupid about me being like the prankster. Let me remind you buddy boy that I have yet to hit anyone, I CAN control my anger, I don't need you or anyone else to watch me. I attack non living things because I understand the value of life, I won't steal that from anyone unless they have forfeited it."
Raorr looks at Leets "I know what being a victim is Leets, sometimes the victim is the culprit, I was testing the resolve or these centaurs. I find it hard to believe taht a Tunne of Wine just disappeared in thin air and then people choose to leave because of a little prankster. It's too convient. I think the prankster has nothing to do with the theft, I think the theif is a centaur who has some debt to pay off and paid it off by helping steal the wine. That was the purpose of the threat, to determine who, if any, of these present centaurs were invovled in the conspiracy."
Raorr opens his backpack and grabs a wineskin, and takes a sip. He begins to walk out pushing through the crowd that seems to be blocking his path.
Buh-Blink..! (DM Donna) Thursday April 26th, 2001 7:01:58 AM
Raorr's sudden shift from "dumb barbarian" to "decidedly wise fighter-with-a-DEFinite-attitude" causes the conscious centaurs to murmur amongst themselves and nod to each other. It seems that Raorr has definitely impressed the crowd.
As Thiel nears the turn-off that leads to the main house, he is nearly knocked off his feet by the stampede led by none other than Tailthwacker. The grizzled foreman of the vineyard is leading Hollyhocks and two other centaurs (other druids from the Clearspring Temple, from the looks of them,) in a dead run down towards the Bottling Building.
The thunder of approaching hoofbeats gets the attention of everyone at the Bottling Building and you all turn around in time to see the four-Taur-charge stampeding around the bend towards the Grotto.
Kale Thursday April 26th, 2001 9:29:03 AM
"Looks like I hit a nerve." Kale says to Flat-Top a he pulls his hood back on. ignoring all the glances and words from Raorr, Kale continues to talk to Flat-Top. "All you have to do is challenge a bully, and they always fold. This one is no exception."
Flat-top Thursday April 26th, 2001 11:46:12 AM
"Yes! Kale, you did hit a nerve and I'm glad to see that Raorr has more brain than I gave him credit for."Said Flat-top then Yell at Raorr to get his attention,"YOUR RIGHT RAORR!" then Flat-top continues. "And it could still be an inside job, we have seen some intresting foot prints and wheel tracks leading to the sea. I for one would like to know, Who and Why. Also why this Vinard?"
Raorr the Minotaur d20-2=6 Thursday April 26th, 2001 1:33:13 PM
Raorr turns quickly toward Kale, raising his gauntlet. "You have crossed that line again Kale this is unacceptable." Raorr turns and looks to see if Thiel is approaching (Rolled a 6 to Spot).
Raorr calls out loudly to Kale, so that all people present and approaching can hear "Kale, I Raorr, challenge you to Kayleb, for the continued slight against my honor that you have caused. I nominate Thiel, priest of our mutual god, Imod to enforce the rules and to chose the conditions of this challenge as a Kalyeb Counsuler. Do you accept this challenge?"
Thiel d20=14 Thursday April 26th, 2001 3:15:48 PM
Thiel stops to look at the four centaurs running. He lloks at the main building, then at the bottling facility. He looks again at the main building, and once again at the bottling facility, hesitating. He finally decides to go to the main building, following his own plan to get flour, and his stomach's instinct too - after all it looks like there are things to eat over there, and ones that won't wrap around his leg our things like that... Thiel is thinking of the centaur pastries when he hear Raorr's call (rolled a 14, is it ok?). With a growl more coming from his stomach than from his throat, he sighs and comes back to the bottling facility. This time he doesn't smile anymore...
"Challenging one to defend your honor is a noble thing Raorr, and it is your most absolute right. However, you have to keep in mind that the one you are challenging, Kale here present, is as well a chosen one as you are. Both of you were sent here to accomplish the will of Imod. Considering those facts, I consider that none of you should threaten one of the chosen taurs... This is true not only for Raorr and Kale, but also for all the ones here... So. My final word, according to the role you gave me, my fellow minotaur, will be the following: you will be allowed to avenge your honor in the way that will seem the most appropriate to you, being the offended one. However, the chosen challenge will not take place before we have accomplish the task assigned to us...I will refuse to enforce the rules of Kalyeb if this takes place against the will of Imod."
Thiel waits for everyone's reaction, realizing that he probably became the center of attention...
Leets Thursday April 26th, 2001 3:26:28 PM
The young paladin hears Raorr's challenge carefully, shaking his head.
"Probably more than anyone here I understand your point of view Raorr, and in other circumstances I would probably act the same way...BUT the fact is that we already don'tmanage to find our prankster together. What will happen if we begin to fight against each other. Even worst: perhaps are you even playing the game our ennemy wants us to play. What would you do if you to divide people searching for you?"
"We all are nervous because we haven't been very successful in our quest...But I'm sure that if Kale apologized for his behaviour toward Raorr, we would gain much time and we could focus our energy on our quest instead of quarrels, even if those are justified..."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday April 26th, 2001 7:05:24 PM
Kalon walks over to stand directly in front of Kale,"You are either very stupid or very deaf. You didn't hear anything Raorr said or more likely chose not to out of your own pettiness. Now you have been issued a challenge that from what I understand no minotaur with any honor can turn down. He explained his reasoning which is not unreasonable and you just had to say something more his actions may seem at times incomprehensible, crazy and lack subtlety but at least they aren't petty like yours"
Ceira Karwyn d20+3=17 Thursday April 26th, 2001 8:03:51 PM
Ceira frowns in disgust. "Bah! Males and their honor..." Seeing how Zeoll has the right idea, she backs away from the group.
As she sees Tailthwacker and others running towards the Bottling Building, she walks to the front of the building in anticipation of what the urgency is all about.
Zeoll Friday April 27th, 2001 12:07:47 AM
Zeoll speaks softly and clearly. "I do not know the customs of minotaurrs, but as a prriest of Imod, I will say that Thiel's comprromise has merrit. Firrst satisfy yourr sacrred quest -- then satisfy yourr perrsonal honorr."
Kenisha Friday April 27th, 2001 12:27:30 AM
Kenisha shakes her head and seeing that the priests are heading for the Grotto she gets up and breaks into a run to try and catch up to them. She calls out to them, "Hold, good Hollyhocks, there is no need to go to the Grotto!"
Honey, You Got Some 'Splaining to Do... (DM Donna) Friday April 27th, 2001 6:38:11 AM
Before either Kale or Raorr can respond to Thiel's proposal, Kenisha intercepts the centaur stampede. Tailthwacker looks puzzled at first, then he sees Kalon--alive and well--with the rest of the party.
"Blood of Domi, what the hell is happening around here???" the foreman yells angrily. "You were all standing around, telling me that the liontaur was pushin' up daisies...and here he is, healthy as ya please! What's with that???"
Kale Friday April 27th, 2001 9:54:54 AM
looks at Kalon and says. "If I wanted your opinion, I would of asked you. If you agree with his actions of threating helpless workers, then you are no better than him." then he looks at Raorr and shruggs his shoulders. "Ill accept your challenge. You can even name the time and the place, but on one condition. The loser must serve the winner for one year's time. That is, if the loser isnt killed."
Flat-top Friday April 27th, 2001 10:22:51 AM
"HOLD IT!"said Flat-top,"Calm down,Boys. Form the prints we saw back there, we will need all the help we can get. If you two still want to duel, then do it after Domi's Quest." then turn to Kale,"If you need a witness, I'll be there for you." Flat-top is suprise as the Foreeman Tailthwacker and the followers comes to a halt and yells at them. Flat-top answers them " It's not my fault, I was with him" pointing at Kale.
Kalon the Wemic Friday April 27th, 2001 11:28:43 AM
Looking back at Kale,"I don't need your permission to give an opinion but your answer is not unexpected...if there is a weakness in this party it is not in Raorr's antics it is in a person such as yourself who conceals his anger and directs it so suddenly toward one who would call you brother. The centaurs are no more hurt then they have been by the prankster and if Raorr had wanted them harmed I am sure there would be alot of dead centaurs. His idea of there being an inside helper has more merit then anything you have said"
Then going over to Tailthwacker Kalon says,"Sorry to have caused you trouble I was hoping that if I pretended to be dead perhaps the culprits might show some remorse for their actions and show themselves. I couldn't let others know ahead of time for fear that our stealthy pranksters would be listening. Sorry to have caused such a ruckus my idea was perhaps ill-advised"
Raorr the Minotaur Friday April 27th, 2001 3:47:57 PM
Raorr says to Leets "The Prankster casres not what happens to us, divided or united it matters not. We will not find it unless it wants us to. Our cause is not sacred in any way. Our ultimate goal is not religous, or spiritual, it is simply a diplomactic mission to right a mistake made by two different sides of our peoples. The only religious connection is that the group was brough together by a dream or other non-corporeal method." Raorr pauses "Belief in Imod, Domi or even Tomi is not required for our purpose. My purpose here is to avenge the spirits of the past, a time when honor meant something, and to live to their code. Our peoples, the Centaurs, Wemics and Minotaurs have become soft, and decadent our civilization has swayed to far from the true strength of our people. The strong should lead. Your words, typical of our races now, are too sweet and pretty, and they allowed others to take advantage of us, in trade, in religon and in our culture. Why do you think we are suppose to unite the thre Taur races? You think Domi, Imod and Tomi want to have a tea party? No of course not we are uniting the races to return to power, and show the rest of the world that we are strong and will not allow humans and elves to push us around." Raorr spits on the ground "It is those races that forced us to play diplomats they took our strength from us, now they are strong because they flourish and prosper using their pretty words, and tea parties. We can not complete with them that way. If you want to play diplomat join the government."
Raorr looks at Kale and then at the Centaurs Raorr threatened. "You think these centaurs are harmless? Perhaps your memory is as bad as your hearing, I recall the journey to the grotto, less than 3 hours ago, when a handful of 'helpless' centaurs attacked me. They gave me no warning, I warned these ones I would strike them, as I warned you twice now. I may be an uncivilized Barbarian, I may be reckless and not subtle, I may be incomprehensible at times, but I know what I want, and I will take it."
Raorr looks to Thiel "Acting Kayleb Counsuler, you are required to set the conditions of the Challenge, the method of the Challenge, and the results of the Challenge. If you choose to accept Kale's conditions I will abide by them."
Raorr looks around and says "For those of you unfamiliar with Kayleb, it is an event that is used by my people to settle disputes by combat. By honor all parties must be on equal ground, equally equipped and/or capable of fighting. The first person to render the other incapable to continue fighting is the victor. If the Kayleb Counsuler so chooses Combat may end with first blood, or death."
Raorr walks over to the door and says to Flat Top "Show me these tracks you saw. I want this culprit dealt with quickly now, its already got a death sentence for possesion of Sacred Wine, I'm already in a bad mood and it better give up or else it will definetily die."
Kenisha Friday April 27th, 2001 11:50:10 PM
"May I add my appologies as well?" Kenisha asks humbly to Hollyhocks and the foreman.
Zeoll d20+3=21 d20+4=22 Sunday April 29th, 2001 8:45:23 AM
Thinking that this would be a perfect time for mischief, Zeoll stays on extra-high alert for odd occurances and invisible beings. He also tries to keep an eye on the wine storage areas so that none goes missing. [Listen: 21; Spot: 22! woo hoo!]
[OOC: I say "tries to keep an eye" because I'm not sure where we are exactly right now in relation to it.]
Ceira Karwyn Sunday April 29th, 2001 6:33:57 PM
"Oops!" peeps Ceira with one hand over her mouth. "Looks like Kalon's tactic certainly raised quite a ruckus. Sorry about that Tailthwacker. It was good of you to react so quickly. But if you would have stayed a bit longer, you might have caught on to his trick."
"Oh, you might want to send those guards back to their posts before our mysterious stranger decides to take advantage of the situation."
Everything Cleared Up (DM Donna) Monday April 30th, 2001 6:38:58 AM
As the explanations are made, Tailthwacker's face becomes rather stony and he crosses his arms over his barrel chest. When the last party member has spoken, he looks rather grimly at all of you.
"That was NOT the best tactic in the world, obviously." he says. "But...I have to admit, it was danged convincing. I'm only sorry that I bothered the people at the Temple..."
"No apology necessary, Tailthwacker," Hollyhocks assures the foreman, "You did the right thing...given that you'd thought that someone died. We at the Temple are ever at the service of any who need aid." The druid eyes the party. "Perhaps, however, you all should think about the effects of certain...ahhhh...tactics before you implement them, though, hmmm?"
"Well...it was DANGED convincing..." mumbles the older centaur, "...only reason why it didn't flush out whoever's doin' these here jokes was prob'ly 'cuz they weren't hanging around after setting up their pranks."
Indeed, Zeoll's eyes and ears detect nobody else in the area other than the party, the druids and the workers of the vineyard, which apparently underscores Tailthwacker's theory of "guerilla jokesters."
"We will go back to the temple now," Hollyhocks tells the party, "I hope the next time you ever have to call on us, it will be for a true emergency rather than a staged one. Good luck!" The druid salutes and gallops off with his fellow holymen in tow. The workers talk amongst themselves.
"Awright, awright!" yells Tailthwacker, his own duties as foreman kicking in. "Haven't ya plugs got WORK ta do??? We ain't paying ya to stand around and chew the cud all day, ya know! GIT TO IT!!!"
Immediately the area is full of centaurs busily pushing, pulling, carting, toting and loading the tuns of wine onto the wagons once more.
"Awright, you guys," Tailthwacker addresses you directly, a skeptical look on his face, "Now what..?"
Flat-top Monday April 30th, 2001 9:58:52 AM
"Yes Sir, Foreman Tailthwacher, We found some foot prints and as we all know ghost do not leave foot prints. These prints leads to a road (pointing east. At the road these wheel tracks seem to head south to the sea." Flat-top turns to Kale and Raorr,"Now! I suggest that you two put off the Duel and help us solved this mystery."
Ceira Karwyn Monday April 30th, 2001 6:48:01 PM
"That's a good question Tailthwacker. Uhh... Well... Umm..." Ceira paces a bit while thinking. "Tailthwacker, do you know what is the average time of day that these strange occurances are reported? Is it more frequent at night or during day?"
Kalon the Wemic Monday April 30th, 2001 8:04:28 PM
Kalon waits for the group to lead them to where the footprints are. He can't help thinking the prankster is continuing to lead us around and do what IT wants.
Zeoll Monday April 30th, 2001 10:25:45 PM
Zeoll explains to everyone that he and a few others have already followed the tracks. He turns to Tailthwacker.
"Sirr, these trracks led rright to a secrret doorr in yourr fence. Do you know of this doorr? Who would? It seems to me that ourr prrime suspects would be those who know about the secrret doorr."
Zeoll will lead Tailthwacker to the secret door in the fence if he likes.
Kenisha Tuesday May 1st, 2001 12:19:57 AM
Kenisha waits silently to see what Tail thwacker has to say.
Surprise! (DM Donna) Tuesday May 1st, 2001 6:39:29 AM
"Well, now...them jokes an' stuff have been happening usually during the daytime...sometimes at night..." Tailthhwacker says, thoughtfully rubbing his chin, "...there were more reports durin' the day, 'cuz there are more workers around here then." Then Zeoll's words sink in...
"Secret door???" the foreman looks stunned. "WHAT secret door? Where? Show me!"
Leets Tuesday May 1st, 2001 8:07:02 AM
Leets look at Tailthwacker innocently.
"Don't look at me like that! I don't know what is this secret door story about! On the other hand, I haven't seen it yet, and I would gladly go outside and get a look at it..."
Leets looks around, wondering who was outside and may know where the door is...
"Zeoll my friend, you seem to know where is this secret entrance, would you please lead Tailthwacker and myself to the place?"
Thiel Tuesday May 1st, 2001 8:10:50 AM
Thiel thinks of his plan with the flour, a little bit disappointed...
He hears Flat-Top's words, and agrees.
"Flat-Top is right, you will have your duel when we have finished our investigation, but we don't need a wounded fellow right know...We may meet our invisible friends very soon and we will probably need everybody..."
Flat-top Tuesday May 1st, 2001 10:44:39 AM
Flat-top with his Morning Star around his neck and his arms cross on his chest. Is watching everybody's reaction. (The workers, the dock workers and Tailthwacker. Very Very carefullly.
Zeoll Tuesday May 1st, 2001 11:32:59 AM
The wemic priest leads whoever wants to come to the secret gate. He also points out the footprints and shows how they are from a creature with human-like feet.
"I trried to be discrreet," Zeoll tells Tailthwacker, "but I don't think any invisible beings arre arround rright now, so the point is moot."
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday May 1st, 2001 6:48:56 PM
Raorr follows the group to the 'secret' door.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday May 1st, 2001 7:43:29 PM
Since Ceira already saw the tracks and secret door earlier, she will stick around and keep an eye out for the workers.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday May 1st, 2001 9:17:59 PM
Kalon follows the group to the secret door.
Kenisha Tuesday May 1st, 2001 9:35:39 PM
Kenisha also stays back, nodding to Ceira.
Secrets Revealed (DM Donna) d20+2=15 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 7:03:03 AM
Tailthwacker's eyes are round when he is shown the pivoting fence panel and the access it allows to the woods and the road beyond.
"Hamper m'hocks!" he exclaims, stunned, then carefully inspects the "door". "Hmmmm...this here door was made a while back, but not too far in the past...a year ago at the most, I'd say..." He harrumphs as he makes this diagnosis, then remembers the presence of the party and says by way of explanation: "I'm a little experienced in woodworking, y'see." The foreman's brow wrinkled as he scowled.
"This would explain them production shortfalls that ol' Browser's been braying about for the last couple quarters...we're bein' raided by some dirty, low-down, two-hoofed wine-rustlers!"
Flat-top Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 11:36:51 AM
"NO! NO! Foreman Tailthwacker. NOT hoof prints--Foot Prints. No Minotaurs did that." said Flat-top, "LOOK closer."
Leets d20+2=19 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 3:23:20 PM
Leets who has followed Zeoll with Taithwacker looks closely at the fence, and at the secret door (did a woodcarving roll).
"A year ago..." does he says after looking at the wood just after Tailthwacker.
"Tell me Tailthwacker...When did the strange events begin? And more important, what do you know about your neighbours?"
Thiel Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 3:29:45 PM
Thiel also followed the little group who came back to the fence.
"Hmmm...You have to be right Flat-Top, our trackers friends already told us that the foot prints weren't deep enough to be Taur's ones - Unless, of course, there is a new Taur race..."
Thiel thinks of this idea for a long minute.
"Anyway, whoever or whatever it is, it looks like ti knows the Grotto story, since it seems to use it..."
Ceira Karwyn d20+3=5 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 3:45:29 PM
In an attempt to kill some time until Tailthwacker and the other return, Ceira starts some small talk with Kenisha. "So how long have you been working with this group? I haven't really seen anyone in a true fight yet so I cannot gauge everyone's strengths. You were a part of this group before I joined. Does everyone work well in the heat of the moment? From what I can see so far, the teamwork needs further work. With fights and arguments breaking out and other Taurs exploring off on their own accord at random times... I think we need to choose a leader to organize us."
Ceira takes a quick glance at her surroundings before Kenisha can respond (OOC: Spot=5).
Raorr the Minotaur d20+3=15 Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 6:34:00 PM
Again remaining oddly silent, Raorr stands by the group. He does not even bother trying to look for anything, he closes his eyes and tries to recite to himself the story of Legend of the Taurs. (Unskilled Concentration roll of 15 to ignore other peoples talking and other distractions)
Zeoll Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 10:18:00 PM
Zeoll talks softly to Tailthwacker as well as to any Taurs in close earshot.
"Sirr, I suggest that you get worrkerrs herre to close up this fence securrely -- and I suggest looking carrefully along the length for otherr such doorrs." The liontaur smiles, "Ourr prresence and actions are harrdly secrretive -- no doubt tales of ourr deeds today will go farr -- so you might as well close the barrn doorr and stop any morre cows frrom escaping."
"It is clearr frrom Tailthwackerr's worrds about prroduction shorrtfalls that therre is an orrganized crriminal efforrt at worrk herre. Leprrechauns alone cannot move, distrribute, and sell such a huge supply of wine. These crriminals will inevitably have left signs in the community forr cleverr investigatorrs to discoverr."
"It is clearr that a lot of wine has been stolen overr the past months. Tailthwackerr, is it possible that it could have been stolen unknownst to the staff? Orr do you think it morre likely that a memberr of the staff would have to coverr up the evidence? Could you give us a list of centaurrs who could have been involved in hiding the signs of theft? What about this Brrowserr?"
Kalon the Wemic Thursday May 3rd, 2001 12:03:54 AM
Kalon listens to the group and rolls his eyes skyward then continues to wait for the group to follow the footprints.
Kenisha d20+3=9 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 12:27:39 AM
Kenisha is watching for anything unusual (spot check=9) while she answers Ceira's questions.
I've been with the group from the beginning. Kale, Flat-top, Zeoll, Thiel, and myself all took part in Uniting the Heart. As to our strengths in a fight. Kale and Flat-top are both very good if a little bloodthirsty. Even before we all fully trusted each other on the Heart Quest, we worked fairly well together. And indeed we would not have succeeded if we had not all worked together. As to needing a leader, I agree. The hard part will be in getting everyone to agree to one person to lead. For myself, I think either Thiel or Zeoll would be good choices."
Sorting Out Events (DM Donna) d20+2=19 Thursday May 3rd, 2001 7:29:52 AM
Though Raorr is able to tune everyone else out, Tailthwacker concentrates a bit on all the troubles that the vineyard's been experiencing and harrumphs before saying out loud:
"Hmmmm...Browser--he's that bookish number-cruncher in the main office--he's been moanin' an' groanin' about missing inventory...missin' wine...for almost a year now. Seein' these footieprints an' this here door makes sense of that now, though. I think youse all managed to find us some sneak-thieves a-workin' to smuggle themselves the best Purple and even Blue wine this side of the Safety Channel!" The foreman looks back at the Bottling Building.
"I can't think of anybody on the daytime shifts who'd do something like this, but the easiest times to do the stealin' would be at night, when the only people here are the guards. We only have four guards, you know--but nobody in the neighborhood...hell, nobody on the entire Island...would be foolish enough to risk their lives on stealing Blue Wine--not when alls you have to do is go to the Temple with a lame hoof or a limp mane or the like." Once more, Tailthwacker frowns in concentration. "Instead o' sealing up this doorway, though, I should think that watching this particular part of the fence at night would be better--stealin' the Wine is a crime, an' I know that not only the Boss Lady would want the thieves brought t'justice, but so would the Temple, too. If we seal up the door, the thieves would know that we're onta them and take their low-down, dirty smugglin' selves somewheres else. Domi's justice MUST be served!"
Flat-top Thursday May 3rd, 2001 11:06:17 AM
Flat-top trots over to the females to talk to them, "I agree with you and your choice of leaders. I know that I cooould not lead this party, because I a Fighter First, then I think later. Hmmm! maybe you females should leads? I know I'd follow you females any place."
Zeoll Thursday May 3rd, 2001 7:21:53 PM
"Well," Zeoll says, "We could set up an ambush. But therre's no telling if the crriminals will rreturrn on any given night. And with ourr prresence now known herreabouts, they may alrready be scarred off."
"Therre's no use following these trracks again -- they go to the main rroad that leads to the sea. Let's go back to the otherrs to see what they think."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday May 3rd, 2001 10:50:39 PM
Kalon takes a few deep breaths trying to calm himself as he has taught himself to do. Then looking toward Zeoll he says,"Do we know if we're coming or going? Why did we come out to look at the fence if we are just going to go back to talk to the others" with a sigh he turns back toward the bottling building. He looks at Raorr ignoring everything around him and wonders if the barbarian doesn't have some sort of deep insight.
Kenisha d20+3=12 Friday May 4th, 2001 12:22:06 AM
Kenisha laughs at Flat-tops's words. "You never give up do you, friend?"
Turning to Ceira she adds with a smile and pointing her thumb at Flat-top, "This one will flirt with anything female. Why the day we met he even flirted with an elderly dame!"
Kenisha gives another look around (spot=12).
Raorr the Minotaur d20+3=9 d20-2=4 Friday May 4th, 2001 1:18:08 AM
Raorr attempts to remain ablivious to the world, however he suddenly gets an epiphany (Rolled a 9 for my Concentrate). His mind fills back up with the information from his senses. He looks around at the group present. Seeing the wise Kalon's eyes looking at him. Raorr nods to him with a knowing expression.
Then to the group he says "I believe Imod has told me what I need to do here in this Vinyard. I lost my focus and have regain it again." He looks to Tailthwacker, "You must have lost many people from the 'purple-one-eyed monster' and quite possibly a few of your winemakers. I therefore will offer my minotaur winemaking techniques to help allivate your lacking personel. I also would suggest that the group all help out in other fashions to counter the lost members of your team. This may not help with gettting enough wine for the festival but It would allow us to get a better idea of how the prankster stole your wine."
Raorr looks to the members of the group present and thinks of the ones not here "I don't know the group's skills well however I have suggestions. Leets and Flat-top could round out the security, I'm sure Firehoofs would enjoy the help." Looking at Kalon, he says "As a Wemic your probably not skilled in the making of wine, however of this group I would appreciate your assistance if the Vineyard accepts my idea. Ceira and Kenisha could handle investigating the grounds with they're magics and prehaps protect the wine with their powerful spells and hexes. Thiel, as a preist should help oversee the prodcution of the Wine and help bless or prerform the proper rights in the creation of the Sacred Blue. Zeoll, as a druid perhaps your services would be best served interacting with the Druids of the area beyond the fence, perhaps commune with the animals as they would recognize any odd behaviors of Centaurs or any vision of the monster. As for Kale" Raorr looks around (rolled a 4 to spot Kale)" I suggest he stays out of sight, sort of like a shadow, this way his investigations won't be hindered by our party's loud racket."
Raorr looks to the others for their impressions and opinions. When the group begins heading back to the Building Raorr follows.
Raorr adds "Of course this may take some time. Perhaps a month or so."
OOC: I think the groupwon't find out anything useful with out allowing some time to pass. So I am suggesting these ideas so that we can reorganize our abilities and aquire information in smaller groups. As a player I'm geting fustrated with the walking back and forth and having to remain together when as smaller groups we could discover more information.
Bright Ideas (DM Donna) d20+3=22 Friday May 4th, 2001 7:26:22 AM
Kenisha's eyes do not catch anything new.
Tailthwacker, surprisingly enough, seems to accept the barbarian minotaur's suggestion.
"That sounds pretty good to me," he says, nodding and eyeing the bovine hero with new respect, "Not only will that help us get the Blue out in time, but youse guys can prob'ly pick up on more stuff about how them wine-snatchers is getting in here an' such."
Soon you all find yourselves salted amongst the workers that are helping to load up the carts and sort the tuns to be shipped.
During this time, bits and pieces of gossip from and about the employees of the Vineyard add a little bit more to what the party has already discovered: apparently more than a few employees recall that a particularly anti-social picker had been fired about a year ago for "unauthorized tasting". The male had been a friend of one of the Surefoots, however, and so was not turned in to authorities but simply fired. The centaur in question had never gotten along with anyone due to (according to the concensus) "a mean streak a league wide." Some of the workers have even formulated a theory that simply engineering the theft of wine wouldn't have been enough for the centaur...he probably hired some invisible assassin to humiliate all the workers by having them be the butt of this recent rash of practical jokes.
After the workday ends and the regular daytime workers go home, Tailthwacker has the party gather in the Field Office.
"Pretty soon it's just gonna be the guards and Boss Silky's family who are gonna be stayin' here on the premises." the foreman tells you. "I kinda gets the feelin' that youse are gonna be able to nab whoever's taking our wine...maybe even clear up this 'purple monster' bus'ness, too. Whatever happens, I just want youse to know that I'm grateful for your help...even ya bullheads!"
Though the way he's expression himself isn't exactly THE most tactful, it is obvious that Tailthwacker is sincere in his admiration for the whole party.
"Now, before I go, are there any questions..?"
Kenisha d20+4=20 Friday May 4th, 2001 9:20:35 AM
Kenisha's eye light up when told Raorr's suggestion. "Capital! I always loved helping my Aunt make wine." She added without any false humility, "I'm fairly well versed in the art of winemaking so put me to work as you need."
She spends the rest of the workday happily working with the others (profession roll=20) and listening to the workers gossip. What they had to say made a lot of sense.
Later, when Tailthwacker asked if they had any questions, she asked, "What are the guards' normal schedule and routes they take? I think this will help us. After all, our thief no doubt knows the schedule by heart and no doubt uses it to their advantage."
Flat-top Friday May 4th, 2001 11:43:41 AM
"Alright I'll help with loading the wagons and help bring in the grapes, then after a while I will take a nap, to be ready for the night watch."
When it was almost time for the guards to come on duty. The party was called to the Field Office and listen to Tailthwacker had to say. "O K! I'm ready" said Flat-top.
Leets Friday May 4th, 2001 11:48:21 AM
Leets fits quite well in the local guards patrol.
When times come for the meeting with tailthwacker, Leets agrees with Kenisha.
"We have to take our ennemies by surprise. I suggest we decide of a new patrol route every evening. We must of course focus on the fence, without this being obvious. This way we could put a hidden guard at the entrances we found, after all, we now know from where they come from...If you allowed us to do so, we could probably also dig some holes and put some nets. If the gods favor us, we may catch somebody..."
Thiel Friday May 4th, 2001 12:00:34 PM
Thiel helps as he can at the wine production and bottling facility.
When he hears somebody talking of "unauthorized tasting" during his work, he blushes a little, and try to be careful about what he tastes and not.
After the meeting, Thiel smiles when hearing the bullhead thing, and says:
"We could also try to trap our tricksters. For exemple we could spread the rumor that there is a particularly great wine this month, to force them to show..."
Kale Friday May 4th, 2001 6:16:17 PM
(sorry guys, I was out of town last week, but SOMEBODY forgot to tell everyone =) ) as quietly as he left, Kale appears again. "I went looking for some info on my own, and it was apparent that my presence was causing too much tension. I didnt find anything out, but if we are to surprise these raiders, may I make a suggestion. These raiders will be expecting centaurs guarding this shipment, not taurs. Why dont those that are not centaurs hide in the wagons among the barrells, or in place of the barrells. That way, even if we fail, they at least wont get ahold of what they are after."
Zeoll Friday May 4th, 2001 11:46:52 PM
Zeoll uses his time to try to find the best places to set up ambushes for thieves.
Ceira Karwyn Saturday May 5th, 2001 9:44:11 PM
Ceira paces back in forth in thought for a while before coming up with an idea. "I suggest putting up an alarm mechanism around the area in question. We can use small dinner bells or any other VERY sensitive bell to keep everyone alert. We then tie the bells to the inside door knob of all the doors to the storage facility. If the barrels plan on leaving the facility anytime soon... whether it's tonight or next week, they'll HAVE to use the doors."
(OOC: Can a barrel fit through the windows in the bottling building?)
Whether or not anyone agrees, Ceira will proceed with her idea since it does not hinder anyone else's plans for patrols or placing traps at the secret gate. Better to have overlapping plans. She will ask around to see if any bells are available. If not, she will quickly suggest heading into town to buy some before the stores close.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday May 6th, 2001 11:21:44 AM
Kalon listens to Raorrs well thought out plan and spends the rest of the day happily working at whatever he is needed for. As the day goes by his early feelings of frustration slip away. When Tailthwackwer called the group together he arrived refreshed and listened to what the centaur said.
Raorr the Minotaur Sunday May 6th, 2001 9:06:04 PM
Raorr helps out as much as he can. He seems grateful that his skills are finally being able to be used.
When asked is there any questions he asks "You're going? I thought you lived on the vineyard. Well I have no questions except where do you want us to sleep?"
Stake Out (DM Donna) Monday May 7th, 2001 6:58:00 AM
"Oh, no--*I* don't live here..." Tailthwacker addresses Raorr first, "...I only work for the Surefoot herd--the Boss Lady an' her family live up at the house. I go to my home at the end of the day--I live about a mile or so away. Youse guys can sack out near the Bottling Building, I guess--I thought you'd have the equipment for sleepin' in the wild." Then the foreman responds to Ceira:
"Ya want BELLS? Betcha there's sleighbells left over from the anniversary festival last month still up at the house. Just ask the housestaff about it." (A tun-sized barrel can EASILY pass through the windows of the bottling building...as can a medium-sized creature.)
"The guards usually stick by the gate up near the main house." the older centaur continues. "Sometimes they trot around the area during the night--like when there was them lights an' noises a few nights ago. Otherwise, they usually just stay by the gate." Seeing Zeoll scouting around and hearing the logical questions of the others, Tailthwacker sums up before he leaves:
"I think youse guys definitely have a good chance t'catch these smugglers tonight because we have pulled up all of our available Blue and have it ready to load into the delivery carts for tomorrow. If these no good, lowdown smugglers are trying to rip off the best of our best, then they'd better do it tonight. I think they know this...so I think that they'll try t'sneak in--and YOUSE guys will be here waitin' for 'em. Heh heh heh. Good luck!" With that, Tailthwacker turned and cantered off, snickering at the thought of the surprise that would be awaiting the thieves tonight.
Kale Monday May 7th, 2001 8:59:10 AM
Kale moves to the nearest wagon and begins carving runes into the wood
Flat-top Monday May 7th, 2001 10:24:43 AM
"Well, now? Where came I lean so that I can take a nap? In side the Bottling plant? or outside the plante? What do you think, Kale?" ask Flat-top. "I wish I could sneek around and hide like you, Kale".
Kenisha Monday May 7th, 2001 11:22:30 AM
"We should have watchers at all times. Take turns napping through the night." Kenisha suggests
Kalon the Wemic Monday May 7th, 2001 7:54:28 PM
Kalon finds a spot by the bottling plant to lay down and await instructions as to who is going to be on first watch.
Ceira Karwyn d20+3=14 Monday May 7th, 2001 11:00:46 PM
Ceira announces to everyone, "I will be headed towards the house to ask for some sleigh bells. I overlooked the windows and it seems the barrels can fit through not only the doors but also the windows. My new plan is to try to attach a sleigh bell to each barrel. I hope there will be enough." And with that, Ceira trots off.
(OOC: Spot=14. Ceira keeps her eyes peeled for any of those malicious vines as she meanders her way to the house.)
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday May 8th, 2001 5:25:56 AM
Raorr drops his saddlebags on the ground, and reorganizes them into a softer pile. He plops down and lays back using them as a pillow. Raorr makes sure his glaive is in hand and his sheildis also resting in his other hand, so that he can spring to action with a moments notice. Satisfied he's prepared he closes his eyes and quickly drifts off.
Preparations (DM Donna) Tuesday May 8th, 2001 6:27:23 AM
Zeoll's investigation shows that the smugglers seem to favor a trail (that they probably made themselves) that leads more or less in a direct line from the pivoting fence to the windows on the western wall of the bottling building...and that there are PLENTY of areas along the trail for the Taurs to set up some kind of ambush.
Ceira--once she arrives at the house and explains what she is looking for--is given a large bag that contains literally hundreds of jingly sleigh bells. She is VERY noisy when she brings this back to the bottling building, and not once was she bothered by any sneaky vines. The wemic sorceress also sees Firehoof and three other centaurs out by that entry gate to the vineyard.
(OOC: I'll need to know who's on which watch and what particular plan the group is going to follow now.)
Zeoll Tuesday May 8th, 2001 6:54:00 AM
Zeoll finds a place to set up his ambush -- between the secret gate and the bottling building. He chooses a spot that is within earshot of the building (probably within one round's running distance, I would guess).
The liontaur invites anyone with some kind of hiding skill to join him in the ambush. "But if you arre clumsy and noisy," he says with a smile, "then it would be betterr to wait nearr the building listening. If you hearr an alarrm bell or the sound of battle as the ambush is launched, come a-rrunning. Now, who is with me?"
Leets Tuesday May 8th, 2001 7:02:27 AM
Leets will gather the guards that are patroling tonight, he will hide half of them along the fence, and the other half near the bottling facility, were the wine is ready.
"Here is the plan for tonight: You guys near the fence, you musn't move when you'll see our thieves arriving, the plan is to catch them in the case they would manage to escape. The door in the fence isn't that large, and you should easily guard it when they come back. The other ones: I'll stay with you near the bottling facility, one or two of you will come with me and we'll patrol near the building, trying not to look special. The others will have to stop the thieves if they try to leave the building with anything that looks like wine -is it ok? Please try not to catch one of my taur friend who would be running after one of the thieves, some may be quite disappointed by such an attitude... I guess that my friends will be inside the building, and they will probably face our ennemy. So I want it to be clear, we are more a net in the case they would escape than anything else, I don't want heroism, I just want you to be efficient! Ok guys! You can go!"
Leets will check if all is ok with the "hidden ones", and will begin the patrol near the bottling building...
Thiel Tuesday May 8th, 2001 7:05:20 AM
Thiel will take some flour at the main house, and will spread it all around the barrels and on the floor of the bottling building.
"Just in the case they were really stealthy..."
Kenisha Tuesday May 8th, 2001 10:06:21 AM
"I'll take first watch since some of us have already fallen asleep." Kenisha announces with a smile. Who wants to take their turn with me?"
Flat-top Tuesday May 8th, 2001 10:36:07 AM
"I'll go with you, Kenisha."said Flat-top, "I'll catch up with you later, Kale." Them trots over to Kenisha and smiles. "We can hide in that corner over there?"
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday May 8th, 2001 12:54:08 PM
"Oops!" cries Ceira with an innocent look. "I forgot to get something to attach these bells to the barrels." she looks back at the house in the distance. "No, it is getting late so I'd better not bother the house anymore. I don't suppose any of you have anything in your packs? Hmm..." she stares at the ceiling in thought for a few moments. "I guess I'll just place a few bells on top of each barrel. If our little thieves want to be stealthy, they have to carefully remove EACH bell without making a sound." Ceira snickers with delight.
As she goes to work, she makes quite a racket with those bells. She looks at the comfortable minotaur on the ground. "Sorry Raorr. It'll only be a few more minutes."
Once she is finished, she will look for a nice corner to take a nap. "Since Kenisha is taking the first watch," she says to everyone. "I'll take the late watch. This will ensure we will have at least one active spellcaster at all times."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday May 8th, 2001 8:09:24 PM
"I'll stay on for first watch as well"Kalon said Then moved over to the corner opposite where Kenisha and Flat-top were staying. Crouched down in the corner he sat watching the bottling building.
Raorr the Minotaur d20+3=4 d20+3=6 Tuesday May 8th, 2001 10:40:46 PM
Raorr's rolls waking up unable to remain sleeping while Ceira places her bells. (rolled 4 for my concentration check to remain sleeping).
"Your paln will not work, once it sees the bells it will cover it up with a blanket to muffle the sound. It will then lift the muffled blanket and carry the barrrel away." Raorr says as he tries to get comfortable again.
Raorr streches out "I will sleep through all shifts, as my senses are not acustomed to spotting anyone not weilding a weapon. Sleep well and enjoy the night." He closes his hand around his Glaive clutching it ready to spring to action if awoken again.(rolled a 6 for concentration to focus on sleeping).
Details Still Needed (DM Donna) Wednesday May 9th, 2001 6:19:57 AM
So far Zeoll is just outside the building (between the building and the secret entrance into the vineyard), intending to be awake as long as possible, watching for a break-in.
Leets has arranged with the guards to have two people right next to the secret entrance, while he and the other two stay outside but relatively close to the building, too. He will also forego sleep tonight.
Kenisha, Flat-top and Kalon have elected to actively be on first watch. Ceira has chosen to be on the last (fourth) watch. Raorr is apparently choosing to sleep through the night until needed. Kale still has to post.
I need to know WHERE inside the building (if that is where they are intending to be) Kenisha, Flat-top, Kalon, Ceira, Raorr and Kale intend to be...in the office, in the loading area with all that wine...or elsewhere in the building or on the grounds..?
Kenisha Wednesday May 9th, 2001 8:59:31 AM
"I'll stay here in the loading area with the wine. Flat-top, why don't you and Kalon make irregular checks around the building and then back in here?"
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday May 9th, 2001 10:07:19 AM
Raorr will be sleeping in front of the three big purple circles on the map.
Flat-top Wednesday May 9th, 2001 10:37:26 AM
"No! Kenisha, there's a place that bothers me and I don't think anybody went down those stairs to see what's in the cellar. So I'll will be in where the Vats are leaning on the East Wall, where I can watch the dock and the wagons. And I can also watch the vats and that stair case." With that said Flat-top will go and lean on the east wall and watch, He knows that he will not sleep tonight because Raoor really snores.
Zeoll Wednesday May 9th, 2001 11:07:25 AM
Zeoll talks to Leet and (especially) the guards at the gate. "If anyone comes through the secrret gate, stay still and quiet and let them pass. Afterr they pass, signal to me like a hoot owl" -- Zeoll shows how -- "then follow a little behind. When I attack from my ambush, give a shout to alerrt the Taurrs at the building and join in if you feel able."
Zeoll tries his best to stay alert through the night. He keeps his ears tuned to both the guards at the gate and the Taurs at the building. Maybe he finds a good place ten feet up a big tree from which to spring and launch his ambush.
If he hears any sign of warning (guards hoot-owling, people moving toward him), he will use his wemic spring attack (hopefully with surprise). And he will use a hero point to help his ambush succeed. (Donna, I'm not sure of the mechanic to do that, but I figure you'll tell me what to do for rolls and stuff. Wilderness Lore to ambush?)
NOTE: Aware that Leet and other guards may be walking around, Zeoll remains on super alert not to ambush a friend by mistake!
Leets Wednesday May 9th, 2001 3:02:29 PM
After his foresleep, Leets carefully hears Zeoll, and smiles at him.
"Don't worry, I already explained them."
He warmly shakes the wemic's hand. "May the gods be with you my friend, we shall catch our ennemies tonight..."
Leets walks back at the guards, and begins the patrol, following the new route. This route doesn't really lead too far from the bottling facility, and allows Leets to keep an eye on it.
Thiel Wednesday May 9th, 2001 3:05:35 PM
Once Thiel has finished with his flour, he takes a nap. When he wakes up, he prepares his weapons and hides in the bottling building, whispering prayers...
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday May 9th, 2001 7:18:55 PM
Kalon moves to a position directly across from where Kenisha is. He then settles down and focuses on watching.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday May 9th, 2001 8:42:24 PM
Ceira will lay down in the upper left corner of the room with the three vats. She will rest next to the door.
The Vineyard by Night
Okay, Everybody--Ambush Positions..!!! (DM Donna) d20+3=20 d20+9=18 d20=9 d20+1=9 Thursday May 10th, 2001 7:13:38 AM
Everyone settles into their positions, Raorr's being the most comfortable because he's asleep. (heh heh) The hours tick slowly by, with people nodding off once in a while in spite of themselves, but not so's it really interferes with keeping watch.
Maybe Tailthwacker was wrong--or maybe the smugglers are waiting one more night before striking, or...
It's approximately the third hour of the morning, and Zeoll hears the low but unmistakable call of a hoot owl! (OOC: rolled Listen for you.) The wily wemic shaman crouches in anticipation... scanning the pathway he'd earlier detected for any traffic larger than chipmunks--and he isn't disappointed.
Into his view creep a line of people--three half-elves, two dwarves, two humans--being led by a centaur with a dark coat. One of the humans trips on something and makes a loud, tell-tale "snap" of unseen underbrush.
"ShhhhHHHHHHH!" hushes the centaur in an irritated voice. The human shrugs silently. The centaur looks piercingly around the wooded area, his dark eyes passing directly over the place where Zeoll is hiding...
(OOC: Zeoll must make a Hide check versus the Spot check I rolled for this centaur smuggler; the centaur rolled a 9. Zeoll may use his Wilderness Lore bonus as well as whatever his Hide bonus may be.
Everyone else must make 2 Listen checks--the first to see if they heard the hoot-owl signal, the second to see if they heard the telltale "snapping branch" sound made by one of the humans.
Zeoll Springs! d20+8=28 d20=20 d20+3=15 d20+3=8 d4+3=5 d4+3=5 Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:38:39 AM
Zeoll freezes in place and the centaur's gaze passes over him (hide roll 28 beats a 9!). The liontaur waits until just the right moment, and when the group is 20 feet away, he springs onto one of the humans.
[OOC: I think this is our first 3E combat! Since I made my hide roll, I'll assume I get a surprise round and my opponent gets no Dex bonus -- hope that's ok. So I roll my initiative (with no modifiers -- got a 20). So I make a partial leap (two paw attacks only: +2 from a wemic's spring attack, plus normal adjusted base +1 to hit -- hit AC 15 and AC 8. If I do hit, my damage is 1d4+3 -- got a 5 and a 5, although the second attack surely missed!). Next round I will use a full round attack and roll for my greatsword, longsword, and two paws. Because of the partial leap (like a charge), my AC is reduced (by 2, from 15 to 13) if attacked before my initiative of 20 comes around next round. If they can't beat my 20, they are still flat-footed for my next attacks.]
As Zeoll springs to the attack, he yells out VERY loudly, "HALT AND SURRRENDERR!
By the way, here are the Woldian House Rules for Taurs: http://www.geocities.com/cayzle/characters/zeoll/woldtaurs.html
And here is Zeoll's PC sheet: http://www.geocities.com/cayzle/characters/zeoll/zeoll3e.html
Flat-top d20+1=13 d20+1=3 Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:41:26 AM
Flat-top is in a shallow, and he thinks he hears a owl but not too sure. Flat-top will take his Morning Star from around his neck and will not move untill he is sure that the noise is not a dream. Willnot bother the rest of the Tours here untill he is sure.
Kenisha d20+2=20 d20+2=21 d20+2=15 Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:50:42 AM
Kenisha is awaken from her nap by the owl signal (20) and was just about to move away from the wagons to look when she heard the snapping sound (21). She makes sure the rest are awake before moving, trying to move as quietly as possible (that's the 15). However she DEFINITELY hears Zeoll's yell and simply moves to see the intruders.
(ooc- Do I need to roll an initiative, spot check or anything else at this point? I don't want to try and do too much. :)
Ceira Karwyn d20+1=7 d20+1=20 d20+1=11 Thursday May 10th, 2001 1:34:19 PM
Ceira is happily dreaming about getting her chance to taste the fragrant wine. As the cup approaches her mouth, her taste buds begin to water in anticipation of the lucious grapes.
*SNAP* (Listen=20)
Ceira awakens to the mysterious sound that came from the outside. Still a little groggy, Ceira rubs her eyes as she tries to bring them back into focus. She reaches for her light crossbow and slowly loads a bolt as she awaits the intruder's next move. (Next round Listen=11)
Leets d20=14 d20=9 Thursday May 10th, 2001 3:59:21 PM
The newcomers must have arrived when Leets and the patrol where quite away from the building. Leets wonders if it was a real owl he heard or the signal. Doubtful, he prefers to make the patrol take the route of the bottling building, just to check if all is ok - after all, they are theorically patroling...
Thiel d20=6 d20=5 d20=2 Thursday May 10th, 2001 4:09:52 PM
Thiel perhaps tasted the wine too much while waiting for the unexpected guests. He dozes, fighting against tiredness not to close his eyes. Feeling that his fellows are moving in the building, he is awoken by Zeoll's call (third roll). Thiel first thinks those words are part of is nightmare, when he was going to be arrested for having tasted all the wine of the Surefoot Vineyard. Slowly understanding that something else is happening, he looks around, his eyes half closed. "Hmmm...what?"
Raorr the Minotaur d20=18 d20=17 Thursday May 10th, 2001 11:03:15 PM
Raorr thinking he's still deep in his sleep hears a voice cry out like 'Who' (Listen check 18) , to which Raorr says loudly "Raorr".
Upon hearing the snap of the branch (Listen check 17) he grasps his glaive and attempts to get to his feet.
(OOC: If Raorr is still sleeping, and doesn't get a roll, then I guess he'll remain sleeping.)
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=19 d20+1=14 d20+1=11 Friday May 11th, 2001 1:11:09 AM
Kalon hearing the owl hoot (19) sprung to his feet and hurried toward the nearest exit. In his hurry he didn't hear anything else until Zeoll yelled out. Others of the taurs present seemed to have noticed but one of the others might be in danger. Without waiting for the rest he rushed outside trying to find where Zeoll's yell was coming from.
As he ran outside he tried to spot (11 to spot Leets) where Leets might be on his way to Zeoll. OOC: If he spots Leets he will call out to him"Leets I think that was Zeoll he may be in trouble" If he doesn't spot him he will continue heading towards where he believes Zeoll to be
Surprise Round (DM Donna) Friday May 11th, 2001 7:17:06 AM
The centaur doesn't see Zeoll--the wemic is too clever in his ability to hide in the trees at night. The smugglers continue to make their way towards the bottling building, but then Zeoll makes his Surprise Attack.
(OOC: there is no initiative roll for combat in Woldian posting...he--or she--who posts first gets their blows in first. If somebody has posted an action before you post yours, THEIR action happens first.)
Zeoll lands solidly on the human--a male--knocking the man to the ground with a bone-crunching thud--the man's leather armor offers the criminal a total AC of only 12. The smugglers are, indeed, caught flat-footed and are very startled by being attacked by a wemic in the dark!
Zeoll's shout is heard by everyone--it even wakes up the sleeping Raorr! It will take one round for everyone else to reach Zeoll and the smugglers, however.
In that round, Zeoll attacks again--he can attack the human male under his paws, the human female directly in front of him, the dwarf to his left or the half-elf to his right.
(OOC: In this particular instance, Zeoll's post--whenever that may happen--will be the very first action in the round. Everyone else's actions occur in the order they are posted after his actions take effect--those actions will be whatever your character is doing on their way over to the site of combat, because it WILL take all of you the next round to get there. I'll be sending out a combat map to show where people are AFTER Zeoll makes his attack for Combat Round 1.)
Kale d20+1=10 Friday May 11th, 2001 9:11:51 AM
(sorry about not posting, see loot and booty for why)Kale appears from whereever he was hiding. instead of moving in on the raiders, he draws out his bow and aims at the nearest dwarf, but his shot goes wide(im sure their armor is better than 10)
Zeoll Attacks! d20+1=16 d20+1=8 d4+1=4 d4+1=2 d20=18 2d6(3+5)+2=10 d20-2=11 d8=1 Friday May 11th, 2001 9:46:51 AM
Zeoll's claws dig into the human under his feet. He slashes with his greatsword and longsword, thinking, "Tomi, please guide me" as he strikes.
[OOC: Here are zeoll's four attacks. He starts by attacking the prone fellow underfoot with his claws. If/when that opponent is taken down, he will switch attacks, if he can, swinging his swords at the least armored opponent -- or if he can't tell, at the half-elf. The standard +4 to attack a prone person is NOT included in the rolls above.]
[Two paws at +1 att mod: hits AC16 (AC20 vs prone) and AC8 (AC12 vs prone). Two paw damages at 1d4+1 = 4 points and 2 points -- plus the 5 hp I inflicted in the surprise round]
[Greatsword attack at +0 att mod: hits AC18 for 10 hp damage to human underfoot or maybe to half-elf]
[Long sword attack at -2 att mod: hits AC11 (AC15 if I'm still fighting the prone guy) for 1 hp damage]
As his blades whirl and his claws flash, the liontaur continues to roar, "SURRENDERR NOW AND YOU WILL BE SPARRED!"
Kenisha Friday May 11th, 2001 11:44:11 AM
Kenisha gallops as fast as she can to the where the sounds of combat come from. When she gets there, she casts a magic missile at the human female. "Shev-Pak Newal!" she chants while pointing her finger at the woman.
(ooc-Just thought I'd add a little color to her magic. *g*)
Flat-top Friday May 11th, 2001 2:03:42 PM
Flat-top wide awake now, Galops right behind Kanisha. With his Morning Star in one hand and his shild on the other arm. Flat-top will be ready for any thing that comes his way, and whoe! is the Toar that tries to harm any of the magic users or the cleric.
Leets Saturday May 12th, 2001 6:50:31 AM
Leets shouts his orders as he begins to gallop in the direction of Zeoll.
To the centaurs patroling with him:
"Come on my friends! It's time for fighting!"
Leets will try to arrive where the fight takes place at full speed. he hopes that the front sight of three galloping centaurs will frighten the enemy enough to make them surrender. while galloping Leets will draw his sword, his shield in his left hand.
"SURRENDER! YOU ARE UNDER ARREST"
Thiel Saturday May 12th, 2001 6:52:58 AM
Thiel stands up as quickly as he can, drawing his weapons as he walks to the door. He stops as he is going to exit the building.
"Maybe I'd better stay inside...that could be a trick to make us all go outside."
Thiel still stands in the bottling facility, ready to face an opponent...
Raorr the Minotaur (Outside the bottling faculity) d20+1=19 Saturday May 12th, 2001 1:10:00 PM
RAorr spends the round going calmly outside. waiting for the 'bloodthirsty' members of the party to physically assault the intruders. He will then think to himself 'Zeoll, my respect for you is now lost. Your attacks are impatient and not allowed this group a fair warning before your attacks.'
Raorr says to Zeoll "Perhaps you might want to step off the human before you KILL him! You all chastise me for my violent threats, what double standard you have."
Raorr looks at the intruding party seeing the Centaur he says "What business to you have on this property Centaur? You were fired for your unauthorized actions and now you will be brought to justice. Through down your gear and no one will harm you any further." (Roarr rolls a 19 for his Intimidation, hoping to resolve the fight without loss of any more life.)
Roarr looks to his companions to follow his lead. To emphasise his threat Raorr drop his glaive to the ground as a sign of neutrality. He will continue to hold his shield at the ready.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday May 13th, 2001 10:02:44 AM
Kalon ran as fast as he could arrving at the scene of battle. Hearing Raorr's staement only mildly surprises him. He moves to a position to attack the centaur but does not attack him. Dropping into a defensive crouch he says,"If you are wise you will listen to the offer of surrender"
OOC: Kalon will only strike if the group of robbers don't surrender.
Ceira Karwyn Sunday May 13th, 2001 8:23:24 PM
After watching some of the group dart off towards Zeoll, Ceira walks up to Thiel. "Hmm... you might have a point Thiel. I'll stay here with you." Ceira will start patrolling the inner building while everybody is fighting outside.
Combat Round #1 Resolution (DM Donna) Monday May 14th, 2001 8:40:41 AM
Apparently I didn't make myself clear enough in the previous post:
ONLY ZEOLL CAN ATTACK IN THE FIRST ROUND--everyone else needs at least one whole round to get to where Zeoll and the smugglers are.
This means that Kale didn't fire any arrows--he's an entire round away from the battle site.
This also means that Kenisha is merely selecting her spell for use--she hasn't gotten to the scene of combat quite yet, and so can't see whom she'd prefer to hit with her Magic Missile spell...not yet, anyhow.
Now, on to the resolution of the first round of combat:
Zeoll's paws and greatsword apparently finish off the human struggling beneath him, as the medium-sized person gurgles and ceases to move. His swipe at the smuggler at his right misses, in spite of the half-elf's obvious surprise at this attack.
"MIKEY!!!" screams the human female, and she immediately fumbles for the longsword at her side. The other smugglers--in various states of shock and/or armament--begin to snap out of their paralysis and prepare to fight!
The DM's understanding of what the party is going to be able to do in Round #2:
Zeoll can attack (up to 4 times) the dwarf on his left (AC 13), the human female in front of him (AC 12) or the half-elf on his right (AC 12). He can hit any combination of foes, but logic dictates that his two paw attacks should be on ONE target.
Kale has armed himself with a bow and arrow--but he won't be able to fight in Round #2, as it will take him that entire round to reach the battle.
Kenisha will be able to pick a target and cast her Magic Missile.
Flat-top, Leets, Kalon and Raorr can choose to follow their originally-posted intentions or to do something different.
Ciera and Thiel choose to stay inside the building (you're in the loading bay, according to my understanding)...and they must both make a Listen check versus DC 15 to hear a noise that does NOT sound like it's related to the battle.
There will be a map sent out to the players to let them know where they are in relation to each other and the smugglers.
Kenisha d4+1=3 Monday May 14th, 2001 9:16:40 AM
(ooc- that's what I kind of thought, but with Kale's post I wasn't sure. Thanks for the clarification. :)
Kenisha stops before she is within combat range. Since none of them has surrendered, Kenisha will cast her Magic Missile. If any of the seem to be seem to be magic-users (ie- she sees them chanting or using arcane gestures) she will target them, otherwise she will target the female human.
Kenisha points (at her target) and chants, "Shev-Pak Newal!"
(ooc- her magic missile will do 3 pts of damage)
Leets Monday May 14th, 2001 9:49:46 AM
Leets gallops in the direction of the fight, shouting:
"SURRENDER! YOU'RE UNDER ARREST!"
He has his shield in his left hand and his sword in his right hand.
Flat-top d20+6=18 d20+4=5 d20+4=13 d8+5=11 d4+3=7 Monday May 14th, 2001 9:56:31 AM
"After our Sacred Blue Wine ARE! YOU! Take this shorty!" said Flat-top as he battles the half-elf (#2). Then rears whith his frount hooves, the first hoove misses and almost hit his chest. But the other one hopefully hit him (elf)on the head.
Thiel d20=7 Monday May 14th, 2001 10:00:58 AM
Thiel Tries to see if his friend are having troubles or not, and doesn't hear anything. He keeps ready in the case something would happen in the loading bay.
Ceira Karwyn d20+1=2 d20+2=8 Monday May 14th, 2001 11:52:36 AM
(Listen=2) Ceira is busy concentrating on the sounds of battle outside while silently wishing her new friends the luck of the battle. Ceira continues to patrol the building and says, "Thiel, keep an eye out on those wagons. I will make a quick round of the other rooms."
(OOC: She will now be in the room with the three purple vats looking around. Spot=8)
Kale Monday May 14th, 2001 5:46:35 PM
not having any angle at all to use his bow, Kale moves inside the building and seed Thiel and Ceira are searching around. "Is there something in here?" he asks them, then says, "Have you seen a way to get to the roof? "Its a good sniper position, nad id like to see if any more trouble is coming our way."
Zeoll d20+1=4 d20+1=17 d4+1=3 d20=8 d20-2=4 Monday May 14th, 2001 6:15:53 PM
Zeoll lashes out with his claws and sword. He attacks the Half-Elf (starting with paws) until the Half-Elf falls, if that happens, and then switches over to Human Female, if Zeoll has any attacks left.
[OOC Roll for two paws at +1 to hit AC 12 -- one miss (a 4) and one hit (a 17) for 1d4+1 damage (3 hp damage).]
[Continuing against the Half-Elf with greatsword at +0 to hit -- a miss (8). And finally with longsword at -2 (off hand) -- another miss (a 4).]
Zeoll connects with one paw, scratching the Half-Elf. He roars out, "SURRRENDER AND WE CAN BIND MIKEY! KEEP FIGHTING AND HE WILL BLEED TO DEATH."
Kalon the Wemic d20+4=5 d20+4=14 Monday May 14th, 2001 8:07:18 PM
Shaking his head at the rampant destruction that Zeoll is doing he moves around the centaur in front of him. He moves forward trying to roll forward through the mass of melee. With all the activity he fails to move through the tangle of taurs and enemies without offering many prime chances to be struck. Heedless of the danger he has put himself in he tries to get to the downed human to bind his wounds.
OOC: Attempted tumble 20 feet as part of a normal movement without suffering attacks of opportunity. (DC:15). Failure suffers attacks of opportunity. Since I rolled a 5 total (a 1 before my bonus, Your dice roller hates me :( ). If I don't get myself killed and do reach the human I will attempt to use my heal skill and stabilize him (DC:15)Only rolled a 14 for my heal check (darn human anatomy!)
Raorr the Minotaur d20+5=20 d20+9=26 d4+4=5 Monday May 14th, 2001 9:46:21 PM
RAorr spends the round going calmly outside. waiting for the 'bloodthirsty' members of the party to physically assault the intruders. He will then think to himself 'Zeoll, my respect for you is now lost. Your attacks are impatient and not allowed this group a fair warning before your attacks.'
Raorr says to Zeoll "Perhaps you might want to step off the human before you KILL him! You all chastise me for my violent threats, what double standard you have."
Raorr looks at the intruding party seeing the Centaur he says "What business to you have on this property Centaur? You were fired for your unauthorized actions and now you will be brought to justice. Through down your gear and no one will harm you any further." (Roarr rolls a 19 for his Intimidation, hoping to resolve the fight without loss of any more life.)
Roarr looks to his companions to follow his lead. To emphasise his threat Raorr drop his glaive and shield to the ground as a sign of neutrality.
OOC: Roarr's intentions
Raorr will be delay his action until the centaur goes. His Dodge Feat will apply verus the Centaur Smuggler. At that initiative (or post as the case may be) Raorr will respond to the Centaur's action. Scenario #1 - If the Centaur flees or attacks anyone (Roarr will not stop him from attacking anyone! However after the attack(s), Raorr will attempt to initiate a grapple with the Centaur (provoking an Attack of opporunity (Raorr's AC is 18 for this A. of O.)If the attack fails to hit him, Raorr attempts to grab him (a melee touch attack and rolled a 20), I believe that should hit most people. Therefore Raorr will attempt to Hold (Raorr makes a Grapple check, rolling a 26) at this point the Centaur must make a GRappling check also (BAB + Str Mod + Special Size Modifier (+4 large, for a centaur). Assuming Raorr wins Raorr strikes him with an unarmed strike (dealing 5 points of Subdual damage) Scenario #2 - If the Centaur gives up or shows any sign of not continuing in the fight (ie orders the other to back down) Raorr will Forfiet his action for the round, and will stand there.
OOC: My appoligizes for the multiple scenario but since I will not know what the NPC's actions are until you post and I can't respond until then I would lose my action. I am disappointed by the ruthlessness of the other characters at this time, I was expecting a more diplomatic solution, and thought it would have been Raorr causing the problem not the ranger/Druid. My mistake, I guess I'll have to refigure my character's role slightly in light of this encounter.
Combat Round #2 (DM Donna) d20+1=6 d20+5=10 d20+5=20 2d6(3+3)+3=9 d20=8 d20=1 d20=3 d20=8 d20+3=10 d20+5=20 d8+5=7 d20+3=21 d8+3=9 d20+6=9 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 8:20:54 AM
Since only Zeoll was able to act in the Surprise Round, it doesn't count in the sequence of battle (not for anybody but Zeoll, that is.)
I mis-posted that in my last post, and have since edited the mistake. I meant to say that in Round #1, only Zeoll was able to attack...everyone else who was running towards the battle needed that entire round just to reach the site. Round #1 also had the smugglers caught flat-footed.
Now, on to the party's Combat Round #2:
Thiel and Ciera keep as alert as possible within the bottling building, with the wemic sorceress quickly checking the vat room. She heard nothing and sees nothing unusual in the room. The only set of stairs in the room lead down, not up, so it looks like Kale is out of luck there when it comes to trying to get onto the roof.
Kale, peering into the warehouse, also sees nothing that can help him get onto the roof. (OOC: rolled a Spot check of 6 versus DC 15.)
Ciera, Thiel and Kale must all make a Listen check versus DC 15 (Ciera has a -2 penalty because she's in a different room.) Kale must also roll a Spot check versus DC 15, too.
At the battle site, all hell seems to break loose.
Both Raorr and Leets call for the trespassers to surrender...in Tauric. The only one of the criminals who seems to even remotely understand them is the Centaur Smuggler...who has a greatsword in his own hands, and who proceeds to attempt to run Raorr through with the weapon! Fortunately the barbarian anticipated this and was able to nimbly dodge the blow. (OOC: rolled the 10 for CS to hit Raorr.)
Not so lucky is the clumsily-tumbling Kalon--in his haste to reach the human male that Zeoll is literally standing on, the Centaur Smuggler's attack of opportunity hits the wemic monk for 9hp damage (OOC: rolled the 20) even though the swipes taken at Kalon by half-elves 1 and 2 and the human female all miss.
Kalon's attempts at bandaging the lifeless human under Zeoll don't seem to have any effect.
Kenisha's Magic Missile slams into the human female, causing the smuggler's regular attack (aimed at Zeoll) to miss. Likewise does Flat-top's blows rained upon Half-elf #2 drops the trespasser before he could slash his own blade at the wemic.
One of Zeoll's blows aimed at Half-elf #1 connects and does some damage, but the foe lashes out at the wemic ranger/druid with his own longsword...and misses Zeoll by a mile.
However, the attacks upon the brave wemic by Dwarf #1 and Half-elf #3 both hit Zeoll, causing a combined damage of 16hp!
Dwarf #2 turns and starts to run away. He's far enough away from Leets (the only unengaged Taur close to the smuggler) so as to avoid provoking a melee Attack of Opportunity.
Raorr attempts to grapple with the Centaur Smuggler, managing to snag the criminal in a bear hug withOUT impaling himself on the Centaur's greatsword, and even manages to deal the Centaur 5hp damage.
Thus ends Combat Round #2. An updated map of whom is where will be mailed out to the players.
Kale d20-1=6 d20+1=6 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 9:34:42 AM
neither seeing or hearing anything, Kale moves into the building to see if he can find away up to the roof without having to climb the outside wall
Ceira Karwyn d20+1=19 d20+2=22 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 10:01:17 AM
(Listen=19)While casually looking around the nooks and crannies of the vat room, Ceira suddenly hears a peculiar sound coming from the loading bay. She quickly skirts back to the room where Thiel is and asks, "Did you hear something?" Ceira takes a quick glance around the room (Spot=22). "Stay sharp Kale. I believe Thiel might be right about his hunch."
Flat-top d20+6=25 d20+4=24 d20+4=9 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 11:04:52 AM
As Flat-top takes a swing at the hunam female, he yells at Leets,"Palaten Leets! Go After the Two That Are Getting Away! after I take care of this one, I'll be right behind you." Flat-top then rears and attacks with his hooves.
Thiel d20+4=11 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 1:17:05 PM
Thiel tries to hear something when Ceira asks him, but just manages to hear the outside battle...
"No, I didn't hear anything special...Why? Did you?"
Thiel looks nervously at Ceira, walking to her while looking around.
Leets d20+4=18 d20+2=19 d4+2=5 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 1:33:32 PM
Leets arrives at full gallop behind the fleeing dwarf and violently pushes him forward with his shield to make him fall.
(Charging melee attack +2 melee attack +2 charging, rolled 18 - what are the damages for a large steel shield?).
Once the dwarf is on the ground (or to make him fall if he isn't), Leets will throw his hoof in the dwarf's chin (or in his back).
When the dwarf is on the ground, Leets will put his longsword on his chest and shake his head, saying in centaur:
"Don't move anymore..."
Zeoll d20+1=13 d20+1=17 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 d20=2 d20-2=15 d8=6 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 3:00:25 PM
Zeoll continues to attack the half-elf (AC 12), slashing with paws and swords.
[OOC: Two paw attacks at +1 -- hit AC 13 and AC 17 for (4+4) 8 hp of damage.]
[Greatsword at +0 to hit -- a 2 misses!]
[Long sword at -2 to hit -- a 15 hits for (1d8) for 6 hp of damage.]
Seeing that only the centaur understands Tauric, Zeoll roars this time in Common, "SURRRENDERR AND YOU WILL BE SPARRED! FIGHT ON AND MORRE WILL DIE!"
Blood stains Zeoll's paws and weapons -- and the sharp pain of his wounds stab deep -- but he feels the joy of combat that the Warrior God of Taurs inspires in all brave fighters. Unbidden, one of the hymns of his homeland rises to his throat, and the other wemics present hear and perhaps remember the lines he sings in his native tongue:
"The blood runs bright" "And life runs deep" "In Tomi's sight" "Aligned with right" "All honor reap!"
Kalon the Wemic d20+4=20 d20+3=20 Tuesday May 15th, 2001 8:05:56 PM
Kalon seeing the human is dead waits to time his roll past the combatants before rolling to where the downed half-elf is (DC:15 Rolled a 20). With better footing he rolls to the half-elf and tries to stabilize him (DC:15 Rolled a 20)hoping his best effort saves the half-elf.
OCC: I made a mistake last round with my Heal check roll it is only +3 total. Okay, okay your dice roller doesn't hate me!
Kenisha Tuesday May 15th, 2001 10:11:33 PM
Pulling a bit of wool from her spell component pouch, Kenisha recites, "Mul-thel Chreesha" which causes the wool to glow. She then blows it towards the human female.
(OOC- Kenisha casts Daze at the female human. Will save vs DC 13 to negate)
Raorr the Minotaur d20+9=28 d4+4=5 d4+5=6 d20+5=18 d4+4=7 d8+2=6 Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:34:25 AM
Raorr with his large tree trunk arms wrapped tightly around the Centaurs back attempts to squeeze the breathe out of him.
OOC Raorr will be doing using a Full Attack Action (1 normal attack, 1 attack with horn, which will be a head butt like move) Raorr moves into the Centaurs space. This may provoke another attack of opportunity. Since the Centaur is grappling, he is unable to use any weapon that is not considered a light weapon.
Raorr rolls a 28 for his first grapple check, which is probably better than what the centaur can do. Therefore Raorr squeezes and deals another 5 points of subdual damage, for his first attack.
Raorr rolls a 18 for his second grapple check, which may succeed. There fore Roarr does either 7 subdual (based on normal unarmed strike), or 6 subdual (based on horn's normal damage)
NB While Grappling I have do not threaten any area, and no longer get my dex bonus therefore my AC verus anyone other than my target so My AC verus the Centaur will remain at 18, 16 AC verus everyone else.
Combat Round #3 (DM Donna) d8+5=10 d4=1 d20=7 d20+5=14 d20+5=22 d8+5=6 d20=12 Thursday May 17th, 2001 7:14:40 AM
(OOC: my apologies for the lack of posting yesterday--I was sick.)
Flat-top's aim with his morningstar and one of his hooves is true, striking at the human female for 11hp damage--before the female can retaliate, Kenisha's spell Dazes her.
Leets knocks the fleeing dwarf to the ground, pinning him there and holding his sword on the smuggler, who squirms once and then remains still.
Zeoll's attacks make short work of Half-elf #1, and Kalon's Heal skill ensures that this smuggler won't die as a result. Although the party can see that Zeoll's words in Common have caused the smugglers to pause, the battle continues.
Raorr and the Centaur Smuggler continue to grapple with each other. The minotaur's superior strength keeps the centaur in his crushing grip, but the smuggler is still struggling mightily against the barbarian.
Dwarf #1 swings his warhammer at Zeoll, connecting solidly for 6hp damage. Half-elf #3 pushes the human female to one side, slashing at Flat-top with his longsword. The blade scrapes across the surface of the centaur fighter's shield.
Meanwhile, back in the bottling building, neither Thiel nor the preoccupied Kale have noticed what Ciera not only hears but sees:
The freight lift at the rear of the loading bay is coming slowly but surely up from the level below. As the lift comes level with the ground floor, Ciera spots a Huge figure on the lift...
...a Huge, purple figure with wings.
Ceira Karwyn d20=14 Thursday May 17th, 2001 7:39:28 AM
Without making a sound to startle the creature, Ceira begins vigorously tugging on Thiel's arm. Ceira also looks around for Kale and will wave to get his attention. Once she has both of the Taur's attention, she will point in the direction of the freight lift. "What should we do?" she whispers. Her tail begins wagging anxiously.
Ceira focuses her eyes to try and judge the creature's level of hostility.
(OOC: Can Ceira determine the facial expression on the creature? e.g. is it snarling in anger or is it smiling with innocence? I don't think this is a spot check so I rolled a generic d20=14 with no modifiers for you to use.)
Kale Thursday May 17th, 2001 8:05:48 AM
"Gods, what is that thing!" Kale whispers harshly to the others. he draws his bow, but he stops short of shooting it "If it moves near us, ill shoot it." he whispers to the others, though hes not sure he can hurt it.
Kalon the Wemic d20+4=7 d20+3=5 d20+3=23 2d6(4+5)+6=15 Thursday May 17th, 2001 10:45:28 AM
Kalon surveys the battle as it continues on and waits to see if anybody else goes down.
OOC: Kalon will wait and watch. If anybody goes down he will tumble (DC:15 rolled a 7) if necessary to reach that person and perform a heal to stabilize (DC:15 rolled 5). If he can just move to that person he will. If somebody on his side goes down and that person is about to "finished off" he will intercede and attack the person attempting the finishing blow (Unarmed hand strike rolled natural 20 for 23 total Doing 15 points of damage) . Protecting his party members will come first.
Flat-top d20+6=18 d20+4=10 d20+4=14 d8+5=10 d4+3=6 d4+3=7 Thursday May 17th, 2001 11:21:46 AM
Now Flat-top is hooves to toe with the half-elf. Flat-top advances with morning star, "Now my pointed ears, by-ped friend. Are we going to surrender or fight? Fight! that's all right with me." With this said Flat-top swings with the Morning star and attacks with his hooves again. Then ask did anybody bring some ropes for those that still alive?"
Leets d20+3=9 Thursday May 17th, 2001 3:11:22 PM
Leets puts one hoof on the dwarf's chest, and sticks his longsword in the ground, near his head. While still looking in the dwarf's eyes, he'll take his rope on his back (and on his bag). He will then make a knot to have a lasso (herdsman roll: 9 ), and he will put it around the dwarf's chest & arms, not afraid to make it tight. Finally he will come back to the battle, leading his prisoner behind him...
Thiel Thursday May 17th, 2001 3:24:45 PM
Thiel looks where Ceira tells him, and nervously swallows as his grip on his battle axe strengthens...
"I don't know if what I had was a good or bad intuition..."
The minotaur cleric gets a look at Ceira and then Kale, aiming at the thing...
"Ok Kale, I'll be ready too if it moves..."
Thiel will wait too see what the purple winged thing will do...
Zeoll's Strategic Retreat Thursday May 17th, 2001 7:09:44 PM
Zeoll feels the effect of the wounds on his body. He realizes that death is close by, and that other brave warriors can hold the enemy while he steps back to pray for curing.
[OOC: Zeoll has taken 22 hp of damage. His max is 24, so he has only 2 hp remaining.]
Zeoll sees the Dwarf before him and Kalon behind him. In wemic he calls out, "Kalon, please be so kind as to hold this dwarf at bay."
Then the liontaur makes a strategic retreat away from the dwarf, taking care to present no opening for a killing attack.
[OOC: Zeoll makes a double move (80 feet) away from the Dwarf, careful to allow no attacks of opportunity. All he is doing is taking a double move this round, so he should be fine.]
After stepping away from the fray, Zeoll prepares to cast healing magic on himself [next round].
Raorr the Minotaur d20+9=24 d4+4=6 d20+5=9 d4+4=6 d8+2=3 Thursday May 17th, 2001 8:47:58 PM
Raorr feeling victory, and the centaur, within his grasp continues squeezing. "Gggrrr, you should tell your friends either drop their weapons, and surrender, or tell them to say goodbye. I don't think thery're gonna save you now." Raorr grits his teeth and again performs a full attack. His grip again seems extremely tight as the air continue to be deprived from the Centaur. Suddenly Raorr realizes that the centaur probably can't or won't speak, Raorr simply shrugs the thought away and decides to question the Centaur later.
OOC Raorr's first Grapple check is 24, and deals 6 subdual damage. Raorr's second Grapple check (using his horn to deal damage) is 9, highly unlikely to succed verus the centaur, but if it does deal damage it does 6 or 3, depending on how it defined by DM.
Raorr's AC is 18 (due to dodge still applying) verus the Centaur (incase he tries to attack with a weapon). To the rest his AC is 16
Kenisha Thursday May 17th, 2001 9:09:52 PM
Kenisha moves around the remaining half-elf careful not to get too close and pulls both of the female human's hands behind her back.
(OOC- with her being "Dazed" do I have to roll for an attack? she can't take any action this round. If I do, go ahead and roll it for me; my attack bonus is a whopping +1.. I trust you. :)
Combat Round #4 (DM Donna) d20=12 d20+2=20 d20+1=9 d20+3=23 d20+5=22 d20+2=4 Friday May 18th, 2001 6:52:00 AM
Inside the loading bay, the Huge winged purple figure belches...loudly. Phew! What did it eat last--brimstone? Extremely raw garlic? BOTH? The sounds of battle just outside the windows behind it seem to draw its attention, however, and it turns around to stick its face into the southernmost window to see what it can see. It scratches itself idly as it looks out--apparently it isn't displaying angry or aggressive behavior...yet.
Kale--straining to gauge whether this Huge beastie is getting ready to be aggressive--misses the details that both Ciera and Thiel spot: the purple winged creature has but one eye and one horn.
At the site of battle, Flat-top makes short work of the last standing half-elf, the smuggler slumping to the ground with eyes closed. The human female snaps out of her Daze, but also falls to the ground, sobbing. Zeoll strategically retreats to the underbrush, leaving Kalon to deal with the warhammering dwarf that threatened the ranger/druid. Kalon's well-aimed martial arts blow, however, knocks the doughty smuggler out.
The centaur smuggler within Raorr's expertly-applied, smothering grip still has fight left in him, though...and enough breath to sneer at the barbarian in Tauric:
"Fool! I know the penalty for possessing Blue without the blessings of the Temple! Let Domi take me before I suffer that indignity!" The centaur's efforts to get out of the grapple with Raorr, though, aren't good enough to free him.
Leets is tying his prisoner--who is cursing up what is doubtless a blue streak in his native Dwarven tongue. So intent upon securing the smuggler is he, that he doesn't hear the rustling in the undergrowth in front of him. However, he DOES hear the words addressed to him in a very cold, very flat voice in barely-understandable Centaur:
"Stop...roping...or they...will die." Leets looks up to see two centaurs--Firehoof and one other guard--standing there. The paladin shakes his head, not understanding why they would be stating such a command in such an illiterate way...but then his blood runs cold when he realizes that neither of these guards had uttered a word--not with longswords at their throats, being held by another group of about seven or eight smugglers, all of them half-elves, elves or humans.
"Centaur...say to stop fighting..." the meanest-looking half-elf orders again, "...or these centaurs...will die!" As an underscore to the newest smugglers' intentions, the speaker moves his own long, sharp longsword so that it is directly under Firehoof's chin.
Kale Friday May 18th, 2001 7:07:51 AM
seeing the thing turn towards the windoe, Kale lowers his bow but doesnt unload it. "We need to find out what this thing is up to." Kale whispers to the others, then says in a loud voice,, "Hey, can you understand me? Whats your name?"
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=21 Friday May 18th, 2001 8:05:11 AM
"Maybe some food can show this creature we are neutral." suggests Ceira. She reaches in her backpack and brings out a strip of dried red meat from her trail rations.
*sniff* *sniff*
Realizing she hasn't eaten in quite some time, her tastebuds begin to water at the smell of the spicy meat. Shaking off the sensation, she kneels and lightly lobs it ascross the floor towards the creature; making sure not to give the impression she is throwing a weapon in aggression.
(OOC: Generic Throw roll with Dex modifier=21)
Zeoll d20+7=27 d8+1=3 Friday May 18th, 2001 9:50:07 AM
Zeoll calls out loudly, in accented common, "You have two prrisonerrs, we have two prrisonerrs. We rrelease one prrisonerr, then you rrelease two prrisonerrs, then we rrelease the last prrisonerr. Or the other way around -- you pick. Agrreed? Talk among yourrselves while I prray forr healing."
Zeoll hopes his diplomatic sally will work, and says an extra prayer as he casts a cure light wounds spell on himself.
[OOC: Holy Tomi! a natural 20 plus 7 on my Diplomacy roll! And the cure adds three hp, bringing me up to 5 total.]
Flat-top Friday May 18th, 2001 11:57:36 AM
Flat-top seeing that all the intruders are subdued. "Alright! We Did It! We Caught THEM! HUH! who's that?" Flat-top is surprised at the sceen in the opening of the fence. Flat-top does not move, But sizes up the situation and will try to see if there is an oppertunaty for a strike.
Leets d20+4=13 Friday May 18th, 2001 3:38:14 PM
Leets stops roping the dwarf, but keeps his hoof on him. He then looks at the half-elf who talked right in his eyes...
"I think there has been enough injured friends by our side and yours now.You were smart enough to fool workers for months, now it's time to be smart enough to understand you have lost.Even if you were leaving now, you perfectly know we would never let you live in peace. I was sent here by our holy temple, and as long as there is life in my bones, I shall find you wherever you are and make you pay... You are just charged with theft for the moment, you should give up while nobody is dead. Surrender now and I promise you'll be judged honorably..."
(rolled a 13 on my diplomacy roll)
Thiel Friday May 18th, 2001 3:40:10 PM
Thiel waits for the purple thing reaction, still wondering what kind of creature it could be...
Kenisha Sunday May 20th, 2001 11:09:36 AM
Kenisha stands gurd over the prostrate female and waits to see how these new smuggler's react to Zeoll's and Leets' words.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday May 20th, 2001 12:25:09 PM
Kalon looks towards the smugglers then calls out to Zeoll,"Zeoll please translate this to them if you can...exactly" (Assuming he will) Kalon then says to the smugglers ,"Good Half-elf do you really think that you and your fellows can get away from here. You have been found out. We will make allowances for the fact that you are not taur and thus do not understand fully what it is you have been stealing from us. The special wine that you have taken is dear to us some would say even worth dying for. Certainly we are willing to kill for it" he pauses letting that sink in a moment before continuing,"You have been dragged into this by a foolish centaur If you kill even one of our centaur guards you will have no trial, no chance to live, was what you stole worth dying for, for you will surely die if you kill the centaur you now hold" he looks toward the rest of the smugglers,"That goes for all of you do the smartest thing you can and surrender." turning his gaze back to the half-elf his voice calm,"We will not allow you to escape if you kill either of these guards. And know this smuggler if you kill your hostage you yourself will be dead before she hits the ground" Kalon then crouches obviously ready to leap across at the half-elf but not moving.
Raorr the Minotaur d20+9=25 d4+4=6 d20+5=17 d4+4=8 d8+2=8 Sunday May 20th, 2001 4:15:04 PM
Raorr Continues to knock the Centaur in his graps out. Listening to the standoff occuring around him. He thinks to himself 'I guess I will be able to kill something soon enough'.
Raorr judging from the reactions of his opponents realizes that Firehoof is in geat danger, however, feeling her kindred spirit in her he realizes that she must have played submissive so that the odds were better in her and the rest of the centaurs favor. He thinks deeply and tries to convey a message 'Patience. Once this one is out I will fight with you Firehoof, we will kill these theives if they drop any of your blood'
OOC Again same as last three posts... First roll is Grapple check 25, second is damage (6 points subdual) Third roll for Horn grapple check 17 (8 points either damage catergory) AC 18 verus centaur (doddge still applies) 16 AC otherwise.
Combat Round #5 (DM Donna) Monday May 21st, 2001 7:52:17 AM
The diplomacy wielded by Zeoll, Leets and Kalon seems to sink into the rest of the smugglers' brains--they are, at least, not moving for the moment. Thus Zeoll is allowed his extra round for healing himself.
The centaur that Raorr is wrestling with refuses to stop--but the determined barbarian's expertise in the art of grappling cannot be denied...the centaur smuggler is overcome by the minotaur's superior strength, and slumps to the ground, apparently unconscious.
One of the other half-elves says something that nobody in the Taur party can understand (it's likely said in elven), and the smuggler holding the sword directly on Firehoof looks sharply over at the outcome of the wrestling match.
"Puller!" shouts the male, who gives Zeoll a withering look. Everyone can tell that the smuggler is about to cut the filly's throat...
"grrRRRRRRRRRAAAAAHHHHRRRR!!!" comes the rumbling roar from the oversized throat of the winged purple hulk inside the warehouse. Since it hadn't even turned around at the sound of the meat being thrown to it, nor Kale's question, the Taurs inside the warehouse dismiss the idea that the creature is reacting to anything the trio did, but to something it saw in the window.
KA-BOOOOM!!!
Everyone must roll to avoid being Surprised. Kalon, Zeoll, Flat-top, Kenisha and Raorr must also make a Reflex Save versus DC15 or suffer 1-6hp of damage from the flying bits of wall, because a huge purple thing just busted through the eastern wall of the loading bay, and is standing in the thirty-foot-wide (and tall) gap, growling loudly, drooling profusely, and glaring around at everyone with its one, large, bloodshot eye.
(Oh...everyone roll a Spot check versus DC10 to notice certain details about the monster--the one eye, the one horn, the wings...and the fact that it's glaring most intently at the smugglers.)
Zeoll d20=9 d20=13 d6=4 d20+4=20 Monday May 21st, 2001 9:11:48 AM
[OOC: Roll what for surprise? My d20 result is a 9, so I assume I'm surprised. My Reflex save failed, so I am hit with shrapnel. My damage is 4 hp, so I now have just one lonely hit point left! But my Spot check goes well.]
Zeoll is stunned at the blast and wounded as a board nails him in the back of his head! "OOW!" he yells. He looks around wildly, and through his surprised daze gets one solid picture: This flying purple cyclops rhino thing is mad at the bad guys!
Kale d20=2 d20=18 Monday May 21st, 2001 9:25:31 AM
Kale drops his bow as he stares at the creature in amazement(surprised). "I hope the others didnt do anything to make it mad."
Flat-top d20=16 d20+2=3 d6=6 d20+1=12 Monday May 21st, 2001 10:44:36 AM
KA-BOOOOM!!! Flat-top yells "yikes! OW!" as a chunck of stone hits his rear(left side)romp. Flat-top turns to see this huge one eye, one horn purple monster coming through the plante wall. From the look of this purple monster, he is mad, relly mad BUT now at us, But at the smugglers. Wait a minute What was this thing doing inside the plante? Was it this size when he went in? How come nobody notice him?
Kenisha d20=6 d20+2=12 d6=5 d20+3=13 Monday May 21st, 2001 11:06:45 AM
Kenisha is stunned first by the wall exploding and the sight of the big purple thing. Then she's stunned by a piece of that wall hitting her (doing 5pts of damage). It seems like all she can do is stare at the monster, taking in the details.
'Boy am I glad I'm not one of the smugglers right now...' is what runs through her mind.
Kalon the Wemic d20=4 d20+2=6 d6=6 d20+4=6 d20+5=20 d20+5=15 d20+3=8 d4+5=7 d4+5=6 Monday May 21st, 2001 12:59:24 PM
Seeing the half-elf about to kill Firehoof Kalon is completely oblivious to the emergence of the purple monster. Intent on his prey he grimaces as a large shard of wood drives into his side. He continues forward springing awkwardly at the half elf.
OOC:(4 I'm sure I'm surprised by it, 6 I fail my reflex save, I take 6 points of damage. roll a 6 to make a jump onto the smuggler. If I can still do my pounce attack on him I rolled a 20 for my first paw to hit and a 15 for the second. My unarmed attack is only 8 to hit. With each paw I did respectively 7 and 6 points of damage
Leets d20=8 d20=19 Monday May 21st, 2001 2:48:27 PM
Leets suddenly rears up and spins to see what made such a noise. I then looks at the thing...Back at the smugglers...Back at the thing...And realizes that he's standing in ITS way. The young Paladin jumps on the side, pulling on the rope tied around the dwarf.
Thiel d20=8 d20=9 Monday May 21st, 2001 2:52:50 PM
Thiel falls on the ground, putting his hands on his head, feeling like the roof is going to fall on him. When he hears the growling and drooling going away, he dares to open one eye to see what's happening around.
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=15 d20+2=16 Monday May 21st, 2001 11:12:21 PM
"What?" Ceira says in reaction to the creature. "Surely my food isn't THAT bad!" (Spot=15) Realizing the creature never really looked back, she notices that it seems to be headed the direction of the melee.
(Spot=16) She notices some bodies lying on the ground and assumes one of them was a friend of the purple monster. "Oh, now will you look at that. Zeoll was right. Our intruders ARE humanoids... a few short and stout ones. A few skinny ones. I'm not sure what race though."
Ceira slowly advances forward while keeping pace with the flying monstrosity. She mentally prepares the arcane words of Magic Missle in her head. Just in case the creature begins acting hostile against her fellow Taurs.
Attack of the One-Eyed, One-Horned, Flying Purple... (DM Donna) d20=5 d20=3 d20=1 d20=14 d20=7 d20=16 d20=10 d20=11 Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 6:55:32 AM
The huge purple creature takes three steps forward--stomping completely over the unconscious form of the centaur and coming to a stop in front of the shocked group of smugglers. Firehoof and her fellow security guard, however, take advantage of the criminals' momentary paralysis to wrench themselves free and retreat from the immediate area.
"hominahominahomina..." the flustered half-elf who had been in charge babbles incoherently. The purple creature draws in a breath, and then exhales in one, long, stinky belch. The wind generated by the belch withers the grasses and smaller plants in the area, as well as wilting the hardier trees and bushes.
All but two of the smugglers keel over, looking unconscious. The pair that remain standing look rather green in their complexions...then they both drop their swords and hold their hands up over their heads, pleading with the party to NOT allow this thing to eat them!
Kale Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 8:38:58 AM
recovering from his shock, Kale decides to take a peek from where the creature first appeared from, hoping that no more of them are down there
Zeoll Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 9:40:44 AM
Zeoll, at just one hit point, keeps alert to everything that's going on. Nothing in his nature lore suggests that such a monster as this can even exist -- except he vaguely wonders if he might have heard of such a thing long ago in an obscure ballad?
But it just seems too unlikely. And someone was playing tricks before. He wonders if it is an illusion. Yet that shrapnel damage was no illusion, and the enemy has certainly been affected.
Deciding against a disbelief effort, Zeoll instead tries to be alert and spot any other people or things in the area while everyone else is distracted by the purple monster. If he can also manage it, he casts a Cure Minor Wound spell. [doubling his hp from 1 to 2!]
Flat-top Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 10:15:15 AM
Flat-top taken by suprised and a painful one at that. Stands there with mouth open, and almost loses some water. Flta-top slowly moves over to Zeoll and will hand him the only potion of healing in his bag. "I have never seen anything like this, Have You?".
(OOC: Happy Birthday to You, Dear DMistress)
Leets Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:08:56 PM
The young centaur paladin waits for a couple of seconds, to be sure that the thing won't attack the criminals. He then moves slowly to the bandits group, and ties them all together, keeping an eye on the purple thing thinking...
*This size...wow...And it has one horn...Perhaps is it another kind of taur after all? A "Rhinotaur"? If there is a whole people like this, we'd better be friends, this would be something really more difficult than war against Minotaurs...*
Leets smiles nervously at the "Rhinotaur" and ties the criminals as quickly as possible...
Thiel Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 1:26:40 PM
Thiel stands up, cleaning the dust on his clothes. He looks at the purple thing, not realizing if it is threatening the group or not. He just hears the growling and howling of the thing, and tries to find a way to eventually fight it...
Looking around him, he suddenly see the huge barrels, and begins to build a kind of slope with the debris of the wall (there must be wood and stone in that, no?), that could "propel" a barrel outside through the hole in the wall.
(Happy birthday DMistress too!)
Kenisha Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 9:40:58 PM
Kenisha gives Leets a hand in tying up the smugglers while keeping an eye on the strange looking creature.
Raorr the Minotaur d20+1=4 d6=2 d20-2=14 d20=8 Tuesday May 22nd, 2001 10:45:47 PM
OOC: My appoligizes for not posting, I had sent one in apparently it got lost... I'll reroll now.
Rolled a 4 For my Reflex roll thus failing and therefore Raorr takes 2 points of damage (leaving him with a healthy 19)
Spot Roll as requested is 14, thus the minotaur Notes the identifying features.
Generic d20 roll for surprise.
Raorr turn:
Raorr feels the Centaur collapse and releases his grip. Draws his Bastard sword. Looking at the Creature that the group has tried to deny to Raorr that it existed.
Raorr yells (In Tauric) to the Creature as he moves towards it, his Sword raised. "You will leave this place now and return to where you are from. Your pranks and foolish tricks have made you my enemy." Raorr looks up at the creature as he approaches he stops ten feet from its person emphasizing his demand by pointing the sword towards the way the Smugglers entered the fence.
OOC: Raorr applies his dodge verus the creature.
Nighty-night! (DM Donna) Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:40:41 AM
The big purple creature (who seems to completely ignore Raorr) takes another two steps towards the quaking pair of smugglers, opens its huge mouth--and yawns.
Then it moves northward a few steps, yawns and stretches--and flops down onto the ground, closing its one eye. Soon the sounds issuing from it sound suspiciously like snoring! (Loud and rather distorted snoring, but snoring nonetheless.)
The two smugglers still conscious exchange incredulous glances with one another--then proceed to throw themselves at Leets, sobbing and begging in Common. Those who understand the language understand that they are (rather comically) pleading to be arrested and taken to a nice, safe jail cell...pleeeeeeeease..!
Leets Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:49:53 AM
The young paladin looks at the sleeping thing, amazed, and at the begging smugglers...
"Hey! Hey! Ok! Keep quiet now or you'll awake him!!!"
Before the criminals change their minds, Leets ties the rope around their wrists (something quite tight), making a nice chain of them... Once it is done, he quickly search for hidden weapons on the prisoners.
"Let's go a little bit further now...I don't know what this thing is, and although it would probably be an amazing opponent, I don't really want to mess with it..."
Thiel Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:53:03 AM
Thiel is gathering stones and broken planks when he suddenly hears the strange, loud snorring...He slowly looks backward and looks at the thing. Quite hesitant, he looks at his friends, not sure about what he should do now... Finally, he begins to walk very carefully to the purple thing, trying to get a closer look to it...
Skeptical Zeoll Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 7:41:32 AM
After all the smugglers are tied up, Zeoll speaks, in Tauric. "Wait," Zeoll says aloud. "This odd monsterr, so angrry a second ago, falls asleep beforre it can attack? And does no damage dirrectly to anybody? It has been trruly helpful to us, but I don't believe it."
Convinced some illusion is at work, Zeoll concentrates on perceiving the truth behind the magic. Then he goes up to the beast and pokes it gently, to see if it is really there.
[OOC: Donna, please make whatever rolls you see fit.]
Flat-top Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 11:14:07 AM
Flat-top stand there in suprise making sure that Zeoll drinks the cure wounds potion. Then look back at the plant wall with the BIG hole in the wall, "Where did that Rhinotaur Come from?" Then Flat-top points to the plant, "From in there? and IF he came from in there and WE miss him, as big as he is, What else did we miss?"
Kale Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 6:26:24 PM
seeing one of his companions poke at the monster, Kale decides to stay right where he is
Kenisha Wednesday May 23rd, 2001 8:52:31 PM
Taking in Zeoll's words, Kenisha's eyes narrow as she walks around it studying it carefully.
(If I'm not mistaken, she should be able to make a saving throw next round if this is an illusion, if not she might bet a better idea as to what it is. :)
And What is "Reality"..? (DM Donna) d20-2=16 d20+6=17 d20+9=27 Thursday May 24th, 2001 6:49:01 AM
The smugglers--reminded that their own noise can possibly have the big, stinky, scary purple monster back in their faces--immediately whimper and fall as silent as quivering mounds of jelly can. Leets dutifully lashes them with the rope he has.
Raorr, meanwhile, suspiciously checks out the snoring, wine-colored beastie, poking at it as Kenisha also gives it the once-over. It appears VERY real--the snoring is loud (and it SMELLS like old wine, too!); the ground vibrates slightly under their feet as the creature continues to sleep on...even when Raorr pokes it, the only reaction to the stimulus is for the snoring to interrupt itself slightly as the monster feebly raises one clawed paw and bats at Raorr's hand, obviously trying to shoo away the offending poker. Once Raorr stops poking, the creature shifts slightly in its sleep...and continues to snore, drool coming out of one corner of its large, fang-lined maw.
"...zzzzzzzZZZZZZZZzzzzzzz..."
Leets Thursday May 24th, 2001 7:07:49 AM
Leets checks one last time if the smugglers are well tied.
"Kale, will you please come with me to lead those to main house, they must have a place where to keep them until they are returned to the proper authority..."
Thiel Thursday May 24th, 2001 7:10:31 AM
Thiel nods at Flat-Top comment...
"You may be right my friend...Who knows if there isn't a bunch of those things down the stairs...It finally doesn't look that agressive, but if the vineyard's workers acts with it as they did with Raorr, I'm pretty sure it could really become a threat!"
Kale Thursday May 24th, 2001 9:16:36 AM
"Sure Leets. Hopefully we can find Tailtwacker on our way. Im sure he'd know what to do with them." Kale says as he starts to prod and get the tied men on their feet
Kalon the Wemic Thursday May 24th, 2001 10:02:23 AM
Kalon stands trying to attend to the painful splinter wound he has.
Kenisha d20+7=19 Thursday May 24th, 2001 11:24:08 AM
Now that she's actually seen and studied the unusual creature, Kenisha sorts through her knowledge of the arcane to see if this is a magical beast of some sort.
Flat-top Thursday May 24th, 2001 11:48:52 AM
Flat-top tip hoves (as much as a centaur can tip toe)over to the hole in the wall. Then turns ans ask, "I'm going down in the cellar, Any body else wants to come?"
Zeoll Thursday May 24th, 2001 3:44:37 PM
"Well, maybe it is rreal," Zeoll concedes. But our first priority is to get these smugglers locked up.
The liontaur looks over at the first human he attacked. Is he dead? If so, Zeoll uses his greatsword to quickly hack off a thumb.
"It is the custom of my trribe," the wemic explains to anyone around, "that a totem should be taken for luck the firrst time one kills a new kind of crreaturre single-handed."
Zeoll says a prayer over the totem, asking Tomi's blessings in future battles against others of this kind. Later he will prepare the totem, removing the meat and preserving and polishing the bone. He'll place it in his holy totem pouch, the first of numerous totems he hopes to win in his career.
Of course, if the human is alive, Zeoll will bind his wounds and see him to the authorities.
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday May 24th, 2001 8:46:51 PM
RAorr says "No I will watch the creature, if it moves before you return I will call for you."
The Familiar Purple Hide of Home..? (DM Donna) (okay, weird title...but read the post and try to figure out just how appropriate it really is...) d20+3=11 d20+4=21 d20+6=17 d20+3=23 Friday May 25th, 2001 6:45:50 AM
Kenisha continues to inspect the creature. Zeoll sees that the human male that he first attacked is, indeed, quite dead...practically pulverized, in fact. Kalon uses his expertise in the Healing arts to bind up his wound, thus reducing its damage by one hit point. Leets sees that all the rest of the smugglers (including the ones felled by Flat-top, Zeoll, Kalon, Kenisha and Raorr) are still alive--though at least two of them will need some kind of Healing soon or they may not make it--and that the rope the paladin has tied them up with is quite adequate in its application of keeping the criminals bound.
Suddenly, certain clues click into place for Kenisha:
1. The creature she's inspecting looks and smells like strong Purple Wine. 2. While the one horn, one eye and a pair of bat-like wings configuration don't look very familiar...something about the hairy creature's cloven feet do. 3. The creature--while Huge in size just moments ago--seems to Kenisha to now be merely...Very Large.
Flat-top Friday May 25th, 2001 11:20:40 AM
Flat-top enters the plante by the New Door the monster just made, looks around and will head for the door where the vats and the stairs are. With the full intention of going down the stairs, for a good look and not putting down his Morning Star.
Kenisha Friday May 25th, 2001 11:24:33 AM
"I do believe the creature is able to alter it's size. Perhaps it also can change shape? That might explain why it's feet look so familiar." Kenisha postulates.
Moving over to the cloven feet, she examines them more closely.
(ooc- what kind of roll do I need to make?)
Leets d20+4=21 Friday May 25th, 2001 3:57:34 PM
Leets looks more closely to the wounds of the prisoners.
"I gave you my word. Since you did surrender, you will be judged honestly, and until this happen, you will remain alive..."
Leets uses his lay on hands ability on the most wounded prisoner, and his healing skill on the other one.
Thiel Friday May 25th, 2001 4:02:30 PM
Thiel looks over Flat-Top shoulder.
"We probably have to go downstairs if we want to know from where it came from..."
Thiel begins to walk down the stairs, his battle axe in his hand...
"Imod, may you lead my steps in the dark...Or to the light, if you think it's not a good idea..."
Kalon the Wemic d20+3=10 d20+3=23 d20+3=5 d20+3=16 d20+3=14 Friday May 25th, 2001 6:54:01 PM
Kalon concerned now for the injured moves around atending to them or aiding others with their efforts.
OOC: Kalon will go to the people that are wounded and down using his healing skill to stabilize those who are injured. Either doing the healing himself or assisting somebody out. Rolled 5 times to assist or heal on his own
Kale Sunday May 27th, 2001 9:42:38 AM
Kale stands around, watching Leets heal all the prisoners
Zeoll Sunday May 27th, 2001 10:49:05 PM
Zeoll keeps an eye on the purple monster so that it doesn't surprise anyone.
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=16 Monday May 28th, 2001 1:40:36 AM
(OOC: Sorry I missed 3 posts. I forgot to warn everyone ahead of time that I was moving residence from NY to CA this weekend. I'm back online now.)
Ceira silently nods to Thiel and Flat-top's suggestion as she prepares to descend into the cellar with a loaded light crossbow. She will keep her eyes peeled for anything suspicious. (Spot=16)
The Incredible Shrinking...Purple Whatever... (DM Donna) d20+7=25 Monday May 28th, 2001 7:01:50 AM
Leets and Kalon tend to the tied-up prisoners as Kale watches carefully. Thanks to the combined efforts of the paladin and the monk, none of the smugglers are going to die now.
Flat-top, Thiel and Ceira prepare to belatedly check out the lower level of the bottling building. (This trio is near the huge hole in the wall made by the creature--nobody's gotten to the stairs leading down yet.) Anybody checking around can see a pair of buttons on the eastern wall in the northeastern corner of the room. You can all recall from your work in the loading bay that these are the "UP" and "DOWN" buttons for the lift.
Raorr and Zeoll keep an eye on the snoring purple beast as Kenisha continues her inspection and tries to figure out why such an alien (to *her* knowledge) creature still strikes her as being rather familiar.
The centaur sorceress notices that the creature is continuing to get smaller...the wings on its back are now visibly shrinking away--they will obviously disappear altogether in another moment or two.
"snnnNNNNNNRRRRRRRRzzzzzzzzz...!" the beast--now only Large in size--flops over onto its back. Kenisha, Raorr and Zeoll easily see that the creature now has TWO eyes (both tightly shut) and TWO horns on its forehead. It also appears to be a bit less purple, too.
Suddenly the lightbulb of inspiration glows for Kenisha! (OOC: made an Intelligence check roll using the Arcane Knowledge bonus.)
"Those feet!" Kenisha gasps. "They're the same type of feet that left the tracks in the grotto!"
And if this slumbering lifeform continues to transform, the creature will easily be the right size to have made those tracks.
Kenisha, Zeoll and Raorr must make an Intelligence check roll. They can use either their Knowledge (Arcana) bonus OR their Wilderness Lore bonus, whichever is greater. This roll will determine whether any of them can recognize what the purple monster is transforming into.
Flat-top, Thiel and Ceira must make a Spot check versus DC 19 to be able to detect something coming up and out of the stairwell that leads down.
Leets, Kalon and Kale don't have to roll for anything, but Kenisha's cry entitles them to try to place the familiar-looking purple beastie that is apparently getting smaller.
Flat-top d20+1=10 Monday May 28th, 2001 8:09:19 AM
Flat-top enters the docking bay very carefully. Looking this way and that way. Flat-top sees that the lift is in the up position and the buttons that runs the lift on the eastern wall. "OK! Taurs do we take the stairs or do we go down the lift? And if we take the lift, Who will push the button?"
Kale Monday May 28th, 2001 8:49:42 AM
Kale stops watching Leets and Kalon and moves over to whatever the purple creature is now. "Is it some kind of demon?" Kale asks as he draws out his mace. "Should we hit it while its asleep?"
Kenisha d20+7=23 Monday May 28th, 2001 10:30:11 AM
"What kind of demon stops fighting without so much as even killing one of it's victims and falls asleep?" Kenisha looks Kale in the eye as she calmly asks the question.
Turning back to the incredible shrinking monster, Kenisha thinks she notices something new about what it's becoming. "Hey guys, take a look at this!"
Zeoll d20+9=21 Monday May 28th, 2001 11:04:31 AM
Zeoll says, "Yes, look! Kenisha, I think I see what you mean."
Leets d20=8 Monday May 28th, 2001 2:17:37 PM
After a last look at the tied smugglers, Leets comes closer to the purple shrinking thing...
The young paladin grimaces as the thing's shape changes...
"Wow, it makes me think of...of...Well, I don't see very well, but it looks less dangerous now at least..."
Thiel d20=5 Monday May 28th, 2001 2:21:17 PM
Thiel tries to see through the darkness down the docking bay (if he can).
"Perhaps would it be better to take the lift...We can probably come back upstairs more quickly if we have troubles..."
Raorr the Minotaur d20+2=21 Monday May 28th, 2001 8:43:01 PM
Raorr watches the creatures slow transformation, and slowly the form begins to take a more common form. What is it Raorr thinks; He personally believe its a really small Minotaur, but unwilling to admit it to the rest. As the transformation is almost complete he says "I know what this 'monster' is it's a .."
OOC I think it's a satyr.
Kalon the Wemic Monday May 28th, 2001 10:58:15 PM
After tending the wounded Kalon turns to watch the transformation of the strange purple creature with no idea what it might be.
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=9 Tuesday May 29th, 2001 1:58:47 AM
"I'll push the button!" Ceira trots over and gently pushes the 'DOWN' button.
"It's hard to believe that monstrosity emerged from down below." she comments to herself. "I assume the others will have that creature under control while we go and discover its origins."
To Strike or Not to Strike, That is the Question (DM Donna) d20+2=17 Tuesday May 29th, 2001 6:12:06 AM
Looking even more carefully at the now-Medium-sized creature, everyone outside the building comes to the same conclusion, which is voiced by the incredulous Kale:
"Holy horngore! That's a SATYR!" (OOC: I rolled to see if Kale made his own Intelligence check.)
The trio of Taurs--as Ceira pushes the down button--are surprised by the piping, high pitched voices that suddenly sound off right next to them, speaking in a very bewildered tone in Common (which, according to my records, only Ceira can understand):
"Saayyyyyyy--where be Sargasso? We gotta get Sargasso...before he burps on somebody!"
The speakers are several Tiny, winged humaniod-looking creatures, all hovering about on diaphonous wings. Some of the hovering creatures, however, resemble a strange combination of a tiny human and a grasshopper...but also with wings, too. It is one of these that pokes (not hurtfully, but rather in a bid to get her attention) a pencil-thin spear at Ceira.
"Say, furface...you see Sargasso..?" it asks again, blinking its big, dark eyes and tilting its head at the wemic sorceress.
Flat-top Tuesday May 29th, 2001 7:25:26 AM
Flat-top testing the lift and about to step on the lift. Ceira will press the down button then jump on the lift and Thiel seems to be next to Flat-top. When behind them comes this weird voices. In complet suprise, Flat-top turns (with weapon still in hand)with jaws open,"Well! Well! What Do We Have Here? More intruders? I don't understand them? Can anyone tell me what the @#%%& they are saying? Before I swat a few flies around here!!!"
Kale Tuesday May 29th, 2001 9:30:56 AM
"I guess your smarter that me Kenisha." Kale says. "What an idiot I was to think that he wasnt dangerous."
Kenisha Tuesday May 29th, 2001 11:07:26 AM
(ooc- Are you sure about that? I've got common down on my sheet.)
Kenisha laughs, "Satyrs are mainly mischief makers. They are only dangerous to wine and pretty women."
Looking over at the tiny creatures, "And these are fae creatures of some kind if I don't miss my mark."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday May 29th, 2001 7:18:45 PM
"What?" jumps Ceira in surprise. "And what did you call me?!" shouts Ceira in common to the little creatures. She raises a paw but stops in half-swing. In common, she asks the critters, "Wait, you're looking for a burping... Sargasso? Hold on."
"Flat-top, Thiel." she calls in Tauric, "They are looking for a Sargasso and they expressed a warning about him burping on someone. Do you suppose Sargasso is that humongous creature out there?"
Zeoll Tuesday May 29th, 2001 7:34:24 PM
Zeoll tries to gently wake up the sleeping satyr. "Come, good fellow," he says in Tauric and Common, "Rrise and shine, now."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday May 29th, 2001 11:33:39 PM
Kalon continues to keep an eye on the prisoners but does look over occasionally at the strange creature the others have called a satyr. He has know idea about the creatures but they certainly have bee "Mischief makers"
Should One Let Sleeping Satyrs Lie..? (DM Donna) d20-1=5 d20+1=17 d20+2=19 d20+2=12 d20=12 d20+3=16 Wednesday May 30th, 2001 6:34:39 AM
(OOC: Apparently I was unclear in the last post, so I'll make sure that everyone understands where they are and what they can see and/or hear...
Only Ceira, Flat-top and Thiel are inside the building...and the tiny flying creatures speaking in Common are inside the building right next to them. The tiny flying creatures are not screaming or shouting, so (unless one of the trio of Taurs calls out to the rest of the group) nobody who is outside knows about this new encounter...yet.
Kenisha, Zeoll, Kale, Raorr, Leets and Kalon are all outside the building. Only they are aware that the huge purple creature has gradually transformed into a (currently sleeping) satyr. Kenisha, Zeoll and Kale are closer to the satyr (which is snoozing rather close by to where the body of the late human male smuggler is located); Raorr, Leets and Kalon are closer to the building (and the "new door" in its east wall), but are dealing mainly with their prisoners.
However, because Ceira shouted & then called out--albeit to Thiel and Flat-top--I'm rolling to see if any of the Taurs outside heard THAT kind of noise. It's Listen versus DC 15.)
Flat-top and Thiel begin to descend with the large platform. The lift--as it goes down--makes a bit of noise so that Ceira has to raise her voice to ask them their opinion about whether these new arrivals are seeking the flying purple whatever that intervened with the smugglers.
Outside, Kalon, Kenisha and Zeoll hear Ceira's angry shout, then make out her question to Flat-top and Thiel.
"Ziggy!" an obviously female flying humanoid chides the original speaker. "Nastybad humans call wemics 'furface'--not nice!" The grasshoppery tiny creature blinks at his colleague and then back at Ceira.
"Ooops...sorry I be." he apologizes, then hovers so close to Ceira's face that her eyes just about cross when she focuses on him. "You see Sargasso or not?"
Flat-top and Thiel continue to descend downwards on the lift.
Zeoll's attempt to rouse the slumbering satyr doesn't seem to have much success.
Flat-top d20=11 Wednesday May 30th, 2001 8:35:53 AM
"Whoa" yells Flat-top as the lift descends. "Push the up button! We don't want to go down now!" Then think of something so Ceira won't get hurt, (Flat-top does not trust some of these Nat's) "OH! my Beautiful Taur Ceira, would you please take your beautiful finger and push the button, so Thiel and I can be with these WONDERFUL little people, (and here come the hard part) please." (Trying very hard to use his Ch)
Leets Wednesday May 30th, 2001 3:36:40 PM
Leets looks doubtfully at the sleeping satyr.
"Well, since it looks like this one is less dangerous, you'll probably not mind if we lead our prisoners to the main house. However, it would be better if somebody kept an eye on well, him, her? Kale, you said you would come with me, I hope you didn't change your mind...By the way, where are Ceira, Flat-Top and Thiel?"
Thiel Wednesday May 30th, 2001 3:42:32 PM
"...And I was hoping it was over with those smugglers arrested..."
Thiel looks at the flying little things, wondering if he really hasn't been drinking too much and having a very bad dream.
"Hum...Hem...Hello! Can you understand me?"
Thiel waits for an answer...
"...and please don't call me bull-head."
Kenisha Wednesday May 30th, 2001 8:34:38 PM
Kenisha smiles at Leets, "I'll stay with our sleeping beauty here. Go ahead and get these smugglers secured. Whow knows how long they might be out."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday May 31st, 2001 12:09:07 AM
Kalon says to Leets,"Maybe on your way back you can pick up some more rope or if you could find a net or something would could use to perhaps wrap up the sleeping creature" he gestures at the satyr then continuing he answers Leets,"I thought I heard Ceira speaking from the building"
Here Comes the Cavalry...Finally! (DM Donna) d20=17 d20=8 d20=8 Thursday May 31st, 2001 6:16:15 AM
Everyone outside the bottling building hears the approach of thundering hooves (OOC: made a generic Listen check for the outside members of the party)--Firehoof, accompanied by several other centaurs, comes galloping up. Some of them continue galloping eastward, towards where that secret pivoting fence section is located.
"See? I told you that they'd prevail!" the female guard says smugly to the centaurs with her. Then she turns back to the party to explain what happened...
"Me and Roxy were by that secret door when it opened, and we started to follow the trespassers after we gave that bird-call signal...but neither of us heard or even realize the other group that came in behind us." The centaur looks sheepish (if it's possible for a horse to do that, that is! ;D)
"The second group got the drop on us, pure and simple. After you lot helped to free us, Roxy an' me galloped for the boss' place so she could summon the City Guard."
"Some of my posse is going to make sure that there aren't any more smugglers waiting beyond that opening in the fence." a large, deep-chested centaur with black hide, hair and eyes adds. "We'll be taking charge of these prisoners and putting them on trial for the attempted theft of Purple and Blue Wine."
Inside the building, Kenisha is still silently eyeing the grasshopper-humanoid. The rumble of the lift makes it impossible for any of those within the structure to hear the approach of the newest centaurs. (OOC: made a generic Listen check for inside party members and the hovering winged folk talking to Ceira...neither faction made the DC 15.)
"Well, kitty-kitty? You know where be Sargasso?" the tiny flier asks again, the sound of his tone showing that he is swiftly losing patience.
Thiel and Flat-top's trip to the bottom continues, as Ceira hasn't hit the UP button.
Kale Thursday May 31st, 2001 7:16:35 AM
"They are all yours." Kale says to the centaur "I think they will be in good hands, Leets."
Flat-top Thursday May 31st, 2001 8:16:14 AM
"Yeah! Yeah! I know where your drunken one eyed, one horn, purple Sargasso is, But as you can see we are on our way down and when we get down at the bottom. We will either take the stairs or press the up button. BUT it would be faster if you push the up button now up there." Flat-top thinks that these pesky Nat's are really dum and has a hunch that they would like a fight. "SO! until we get back up there, you'll have to wait for Thiel and me to show you." Flat-top said with a smirk on his face.
Ceira Karwyn Thursday May 31st, 2001 10:23:02 AM
Ceira replies, "Sargasso... Sargasso. He wouldn't be a huge flying beastie with one horn and one eye would he?" she asks the little critter. "Of course, with a monster of that caliber, I don't see how you could have missed him. In anycase, if that's who you're looking for, he was headed outside and... I think he took a nap."
With Flat-top urging on, Ceira quickly pushes the 'UP' button. "Oops... hee hee."
"By the way," Ceira says to the grasshoppery creature, "if you insist on calling me a name, you may call me Ceira. These two Taurs here are Thiel and Flat-top. And what might your name be? Or a better question might be, 'what' are you?"
Leets Thursday May 31st, 2001 3:02:27 PM
"Nice to see you back, Firehoof. They are yours..."
Leets gives the end of the rope to Firehoof.
"Now that we have caught those, I think we have another problem, or perhaps answers..."
Leets walks to the satyr.
"Well, if you come closer you'll see what I mean."
Thiel Thursday May 31st, 2001 3:10:43 PM
Thiel feels a little bit less nervous as the lift goes up.
"As my friend Ceira told you, my name's Thiel. Excuse me for looking surprised, but I had quite a lot of surprises today...And still have a remain of headache..."
Thiel smiles to the grasshoppery creature, wondering what will be the next surprise...
Very low, he adds "I will never drink that much again...never..."
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday May 31st, 2001 7:32:22 PM
Raorr continues to watch the sleeping Satyr.
Zeoll Thursday May 31st, 2001 10:42:23 PM
After guarding the satyr, Zeoll decides it is time to regroup. He picks up the satyr in his arms and carries him over to the building. He calls out, "Hey everrybody! Come on overr!"
Kenisha Thursday May 31st, 2001 11:07:07 PM
"Becareful not to alarm him, Zeoll." Kenisha calls out after he picks up the satyr. She trots behind him.
Kalon the Wemic Friday June 1st, 2001 12:49:10 AM
Kalon watches as Zeoll picks up the sleeping satyr."He is taking a big risk that that thing will stay asleep" he thinks to himself. then follows along after Zeoll.
Introductions All Around...almost (DM Donna) Friday June 1st, 2001 6:32:41 AM
OOC: Please remember that the tiny winged creatures are speaking in Common--neither Flat-top nor Thiel understand Common.
Outside the building, Firehoof hands off the prisoners to the centaurs who'd accompanied her and then follows Leets over to where Zeoll is picking up the snoring satyr. As the wemic bears his slumbering burden closer to the bottling building, the satyr stirs in his sleep, muttering something in a language none of you can understand. Then he snuggles into Zeoll with little goat-like sounds and continues to snore. (Zeoll can definitely tell that this particular satyr is desperately in need of some mint to nibble on!)
Inside the building, the flying grasshopper-person puts a miniscule hand to his own tiny chest.
"Me Ziggy. A Grig I be." he announces to Ceira proudly. Then he points to the other two grigs in the flying group. "They be Gurpp and Grakk."
"Milkpod I be." the tiny female humanoid introduces herself. "A Sprite I am...and Ziggy's cousin. Hello, kitty!" This elicits all the other sprites in the group to chorus "hello, kitty!" and babble their names over and over. It almost drowns out the noise of the lift returning back up to Ceira's level.
(It takes two rounds for the lift to return back to its original position.)
Kale Friday June 1st, 2001 8:04:35 AM
"So, do we wake him, or let him sleep?"
Ceira Karwyn Friday June 1st, 2001 8:36:11 AM
"Ack! Too much chattering!" she yelps in Tauric. "The noisy lift was bad enough. Is there anything in particular you want me to ask them Thiel and Flat-top?"
In an attempt to break it up, she will yell in Common "Ahem... Ziggy? Ziggy... ZIGGY!" If she startles them, she cups her hand over her mouth with an apologetic look. "Sorry about that. So does the huge purple monster sound like the friend you are looking for? It also has wings and such. It amazes me that it can even fly in the first place. If I may also ask, why are you all down here? You seem more like the forest type. This is a wine bottling facility for the centaurs... or do you all know that already?"
Flat-top Friday June 1st, 2001 9:37:37 AM
Flat-top yells back to the wenic, "Ceira are you all right? Some of those sounds seem a little hostel to me. And Yes I have a question for them. What do they want with the Blue Wine." Then Flat-top turns to Theil and the centaur put his left arm around the Minotaur shoulder and tells him in a very sympertic voice,"Yes! Theil, I've been there myself a few times. But after a while I go back and nip again. Some times it help make the headache go away."
Zeoll Friday June 1st, 2001 5:07:41 PM
Zeoll sets the satyr down gently outside the entrance to the building. He calls out, "Ceirra, Flat-top, Thiel! You all okay?"
The liontaur looks around at the scene. The wine thieves are all in custody. No Taurs have been killed or even badly injured -- except him! The only loose threads that remain are the mystery of this satyr. He seeks out the head centaur of the vinyard now on site.
If you could help us out, good centaurr" he says, I want to wake this satyrr, and I suspect the sweet smell of wine would brring him arround. Do you have a skin to sparre?"
Kenisha Friday June 1st, 2001 11:10:34 PM
Kenisha waits behind Zeoll. "It might not be a bad idea to 'give him a hair of the dog tyhat bite him'." She smiles.
Kalon the Wemic Monday June 4th, 2001 1:31:10 AM
"Why are we treating this creature any differently then the smugglers. They are as likely to have been stealing the sacred wine as the humans, elves and dwarves. Zeoll leaped upon the smugglers and killed them readily without any specific evidence that they did anything. However this creature we are treating with some strange gentleness. I think that this creature should be taken into custody as well" Kalon says
The Mystery Explained (DM Donna) Monday June 4th, 2001 7:50:38 AM
OOC: I am assuming that the "entrance" that Zeoll places the sleeping satyr at is actually that hole in the eastern wall of the bottling building.
Firehoof sniffs at the, ah, fragrant satyr and wrinkles her nose.
"Phew! Smells like this guy HAS been nipping at the Purple Wine." she points out. "Probably couldn't quite handle it--I hear that even our Purple Wine has to be watered down for most non-Taurs to be able to drink even the smallest amounts." The guard rummages around in her satchel and comes up with a flask. "I have a personal supply of Purple in this..?" She holds the flask out to whomever is willing to use it on the satyr.
"You don't look too good..." Firehoof says in an understatement to Zeoll.
Meanwhile, Ceira's loud interruption of the chattering sprites results in all of the tiny flying creatures falling suddenly silent...for all of two seconds. Then they all start talking again. Ziggy sighs, shaking his head and glancing at Milkpod, who rolls her eyes and then gives a shrill whistle. All of the sprite-types shut up and stay silent.
"Is okay, Ceira-kitty, now speaks we have." Ziggy tells the wemic sorceress. "Sargasso not being himself these days--oldgrapedrink not agreeing with Sargasso, Ziggy thinks."
"Yes, yes!" Milkpod chimes in. "Oldgrapedrink too strong! Sargasso stinky now--one-eye-one-horn flying purple oldgrapedrinker! Phewww!" The sprite maiden again rolls her eyes, waving a hand in front of her nose in apparent recollection of the creature's breath.
"Not needing reminders, Milkpod!" Ziggy agrees. "Sargasso hearing about fantastic oldgrapedrink--hurryhurry to taste for himself. Sargasso plays reedywindthing and opens bigrainbowgate--we be bestest Sargasso friends, so we come with Sargasso. Bigrainbowgate taking us near here...Sargasso looking for oldgrapedrink at nightynighttime--we find this place. Sargasso go glug-glug..."
"Sargasso go CHUG-a-lug-glug-glug!!!" Milkpod's voice is completely disgusted. "Sargasso not listening to Milkpod at ALL!" Ziggy nods agreement.
"Milkpod saying no be drinking oldgrapedrink until testing done. Sargasso too hurryhurry! Not be listening! Now be one-eye-one-horn-flying-purple-oldgrapedrinker!" the grig explains. "Protecting silly satyr we be! Friends doing that for each other, you know."
Kale Monday June 4th, 2001 9:42:35 AM
Kale takes the skin from Firehoof. "Ill do the honors." he says as he pours a bit of the wine on the satyr's face. "Wakie wakie, hands off snakie." Kale says with a bit of a smile on his face
Zeoll Monday June 4th, 2001 10:51:51 AM
Zeoll turns to Kalon. 'Well, I guess it sorrt of IS in custody,' he says, smiling. 'The differrence is that this crreaturre helped us capturre the villains. The enemy of my enemy and all that. Plus I must admit to an irrrational bias -- I feel in my hearrt that this being was intended to help us -- and in some way, it too has a sacrred mission. I know it sounds absurrd, but that is my intuition."
"Besides, who do you trrust -- sneaky humans and dwarrves? Or a helpful goat-taurr? Rrememberr, therre are morre Taurrs in the worrld than just Minotaurrs, Centaurrs, and Liontaurrs!"
Then, seeing Kale pour wine on the satyr, Zeoll laughs. "Oh, I thought we could just wave the wine underr his nose -- the smell would be enough! Oh my! Well, THAT should wake him up!"
Kenisha Monday June 4th, 2001 11:53:57 AM
Kenisha almost falls down laughing as she watches Zale's method of waking inebriated satyrs.
When she had sufficient breath to speak again, she says, "I agree with Zeoll. Although Sargasso here must be made aware of his own transgressions. Perhaps some agreement can be acchieved between the vineyard and him."
Flat-top Monday June 4th, 2001 12:02:56 PM
Flat-top seeing a lot of confusion between a lot of different creatures of different sizes, all talking at once and shutting up, then start talking all at once again. Flat-top with his arm still around Thiel's shoulder, make a comment "No! wonder you have a headache, they all sound like mares convention. But Flat-top fells that Ciera is in no danger, so he'll put his Morning Star around his neck. Then ask Ciera, "Ciera would you please ask if anybody has any Hurting Head Powder, Please? Thiel head hurts."
Leets Monday June 4th, 2001 3:19:28 PM
"Hmmmm...You may be right Zeoll..."
Leets looks at the sleeping satyr doubtfully.
"Maybe he was also sent to stop the smugglers too?"
And the Minotaurs sometimes looked strange to me during the war...This journey may teach me far much more than I thought mother...
Thiel Monday June 4th, 2001 3:25:23 PM
"Thank you Flat-Top my friend, but that's a fair punishment for my behavior..."
Thiel tries to understand the newcomers words, but quickly gives up, just hearing a "blablablabla" that resounds in his painful head.
"Ceira, you seem to understand them...What do they want?"
"Oh...And please stop playing with the lift, or I think I'll be sick..."
Ceira Karwyn d20+1=8 Monday June 4th, 2001 7:04:14 PM
(OOC: I assume the lift is still going up at this point.)
Ceira pauses and tries to sort out the sprite's attempt at speaking Common. Speaking in Tauric to Flat-top and Thiel now, "Ok. It seems these sprites can clear a few things up for us. First of all... ... ... (OOC: Relay the info given above)... So what we have is a satyr that transforms into that monstrosity up above."
(OOC: Listen=8 Ceira doesn't hear Zeoll call her name over the rumbling of the noisy lift.)
Now speaking in Common, "You will find your friend, Sargasso up above and asleep in the field. My other friends are watching over him... more like, beside him. Assuming my friends didn't do anything drastic, he should be okay. Your friend is quite horrid looking." she adds with a wink.
Ceira recalls some of the humanoids who had been either slain or taken prisoner in the field. Asking in common, "I don't suppose you would know anything about an involvement with humanoids?"
Raorr the Minotaur Monday June 4th, 2001 8:24:38 PM
RAorr looks puzzled at Zoell's commetn about other taurs.
"There are only two Taurs Zeoll. Minotaurs and Centaurs. WEmics are called linotaurs only becasuse of the similarities to Cenataurs. I don't know wether all wemics are so accustomed to calling them selves by the Liontaur label. But I recall my peole are actaully Mino, the Taur portion was added later." Calling this Satyr a Goattaur is about as stupid as callingthe dwark a Stuntytaur. It's an insult to the real Taur people."
Raorr continues to look annoyed at Zeoll and stares at the pouch he placed his new 'totem' into.
"Does the totem work still if you defeat your enemy before it can fight you fairly, Zeoll? Perhaps you should hold off on it until you defeat an armed opponent."
Raorr looks over to KAle "I think our time has almost arrived KAle, the mystery solved and the bandits captured. When Theil and Flat Top return perhaps we can finish our disagreement."
Kalon the Wemic Monday June 4th, 2001 11:15:35 PM
Kalon shakes his head,"I would be the first to admit I know nothing of centaur law or minotaur law for that matter. What have we truly proved about the "Smugglers" other then they were on the property of the centaurs without their permission. Ddid we find stolen wine on them?" he looks at Zeoll as he says that,"I examined the dead human you killed he didn't even have time to draw his weapon before he was torn apart limb from limb" looking at the others he adds,"There is a large hole in the wall that I must believe was caused by this satyr and the two foot chunk of wood that I pulled out of my side must have come from that exploding wall! If it is the will of our great god that this satyr not be treated as a thief then I'm sure that will be passed down to us in some manner or another. Till then he should be considered as dangerous, as uninvited and as guilty of thievery of our sacred wine as the smugglers. One smell of his breath tells me he has at least some wine concealed in his stomach."
Satyrs and Grigs and Sprites--oh, MY! (DM Donna) d20+6=19 d20=17 d20=12 Tuesday June 5th, 2001 7:09:16 AM
The Purple Wine from Firehoof's flask splashes over the peacefully-sleeping woodland creature's face--immediately rousing it to sit bolt upright as it huffs and puffs and blusters in a language that is foreign to everyone's ears.
Inside, the lift finally comes level to the ground floor of the loading bay. Grig opens his mouth to say something else to Ceira, when Milkpod suddenly cries out:
"Hey--hearing Sargasso! Must be wakeywakey!" At this announcement, the entire retinue of sprites and grigs zoom through the air past the heads of Flat-top and Thiel and out of the hole in the eastern wall of the building.
Outside, the party sees the sudden appearance of several tiny flying creatures--most of whom resemble miniature humanoids with wings, although there are three of them that look like a cross between a tiny human and a grasshopper.
These creatures all fly directly to the satyr, hovering about the awakening goat-man. One of the sprites--a female, by the looks of her--seizes the flask out of Kale's hand...or tries to, anyway. While she manages to latch onto the vessel, the female sprite obviously lacks the strength to wrest away the flask (easily as large as the tiny creature herself!) from the minotaur's grasp. She says something in a high-pitched harangue--it's in Common, so only those who understand that language can make out what she's yelling at Kale:
"Nononononononono! Not giving oldgrapedrink to Sargasso! Taking four nights to get Sargasso normal again!"
Zeoll's Sermon Tuesday June 5th, 2001 7:31:32 AM
Before all the commotion, as the satyr is waking up, Zeoll manages to speak at length. He responds to Kalon and Raorr.
"Perrhaps the ways of the hunterr differr frrom the ways of the soldierr," Zeoll says, "But should the lion give a warrning to the gazelle, orr challenge the zebrra to a duel?"
"I clearrly said severral times that I was setting up an ambush, and no one objected. Perrhaps soldierrs do not know that the rreason forr an ambush is to attack with surrprrise?"
"The human-types werre clearrly the enemy. They used the secrret doorr. They werre sneaking theirr way towarrds the wine. They had no wine because we caught them on theirr way in."
"The situation is unambiguous. As yourr comrrade, I value yourr opinion, but in the end, I answerr to Tomi. If the god of us all is displeased, he will take away my spells. Until that happens, I know I walk in his sight."
"As forr yourr comments on the Taurrs, frriend Rroarrr, I forrgive you yourr insult because until rrecently, no one knew the trruth. But clearrly, as a centaurr is half horrse, a minotaurr is half bull, and a liontaurr is half lion, the satyrr is half goat. A dwarrf is half nothing. I underrstand yourr thoughts, but you have not seen the Sunderred Hearrt healed, as I have."
"Forr not a week ago I stood with otherrs of ourr company on the new holy island and saw with my own eyes ourr god -- called Tomi, Imod, and Domi -- in the shape of a Taurr that included elements frrom all thrree of ourr rraces. In that holy place He spoke to us, and His worrds arre burrned into my mind."
The wemic's voice becomes verry solemn,
"Ourr God declarred unto us:"
"I am Domi ... Imod ... Tomi ... and you arre all my childrren!"
"Once upon a time, I sought to crreate the ultimate warrriorr rrace -- one skilled in all aspects of warr. Thus was borrn the Taurr. I do not possess omniscience, howeverr, but immorrtal powerr. I did not rrealize that the differrent perrceptions of combat could frracturre my vision of one perrfect warrriorr into many differrent warrriorrs...thus was borrn the Minotaurr, the Centaurr...and the Lion-taurr, who is called Wemic."
"My Hearrt was torrn asunderr because I thought I had caused irrrrepairrable damage to the Taurr, weakening that perrfect warrriorr rrace ... but you have shown me that I did not weaken the Taurr, but made the Taurr strrongerr thrrough diverrsity. Now it is up to you to prrove that all thrree aspects of Taurr can unite in spite of theirr differrences ... that all thrree make up a nigh-unbeatable forrce forr good in the Wold."
Zeoll pauses and bows his head. When he speaks again, his speaks normally.
"Note carrefully the worrds of Tomi: he did not say THRREE differrent warrriorrs, but MANY differrent warrriorrs. A month ago I thought liontaurrs stood alone. Then I learrned that minotaurrs and centaurrs arre kin. Who am I to say that the satyrr is not a goat-taurr? Who arre you to say it? I prreferr to errrr on the side of uniting."
When all heck breaks loose, Zeoll laughs to see the sprite trying to wrest the wine frrom Kale. "Now Just Rrelax Everrybody!" he roars, though not as loudly as he can, in Common, then in Taur. "Let's Calm Down And Say Hello! I Am Zeoll, And I Am Pleased To Meet You!"
Then he smailes and adds to Rraorr, "This small fey (pointing to a Grig) does not seem like the crreation of a Warr god, but who knows? Perrhaps it is a Grrasshopperr-taurr!"
Kale Tuesday June 5th, 2001 8:29:43 AM
"We can do it right now, if you want." Kale says to Raorr, then he tries to swat away at the fairy. "Or as soon as I get rid of this bug."
Flat-top Tuesday June 5th, 2001 10:51:35 AM
Flat-top get off the lift as soon as it stops. " HI! Little ones, Wheeniful to meet all of you. Now Ceira are you all right? Now tell me what this is all about? and where do they come from?". Flat-top listens and is interrupted by these little natstours, but got the part of the reedywindthing and the part of opening of the Bigrainbowgate?? When all the those natstours and the odd looking ones, Chitter Chatter and Buzz out of the hole in the wall." Ceira, Thiel, I think we should follow them or they'll get into trouble again."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday June 5th, 2001 12:03:59 PM
Ceira casts a doubtful eye on Flat-top. Although she has been teamed up with centaurs, she would have never expected such concern for her well-being; particularly not from a centaur. Ceira puts on a smile and responds, "Thank you for your concern Flat-top. I am fine. It's just all that random chattering that gets on my nerves."
"As for what these creatures want, they are looking for their one-eyed, one-horned, flying purple..." Ceira looks wide-eyed at the now empty field. "HEY! Where'd it go!?!?"
She watches all the sprites spirit away towards the satyr. "Who's that?" asks Ceira. "He doesn't look like a one-eyed monster! What's going on here?"
Leets Tuesday June 5th, 2001 1:27:15 PM
"WOW!"
Leets gallops to the newcomers, looking one after the other, and coming back to the tiny flying creatures several times.
"Hey! Hey! What are you? Do you understand what I say? Hey, what's your name? Can you fly very quickly with those? Wow! I wish I could fly too! I would be pegasus taur, hehe..."
Leets then realizes that just everybody must be looking at him, and comes back to his serious face...
"Hem..."
He holds a hand in the direction of the grasshoper creature.
"My name's Leets, nice to meet you!"
Thiel Tuesday June 5th, 2001 1:36:24 PM
The minotaur priest follows the little groups that comes from the lift.
"We've found new friends!"
Thiel kneels by the satyr's side to see if he was not hurt while destroying the wall.
"It looks like everything looks more clear!"
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday June 5th, 2001 6:25:03 PM
Raorr snarls at Zeoll, "And what exactly made the Humans, Dwarves and other dmihumans the enemy Zeoll." Raorr glances past the group towards the 'secret door' "I agree the reason they came trhourgh th door was for obviously criminal actions, however these new friends, as everyone so quickly accepts, are the one's who I veiw as the enemy at this moment. I don't care if they are or aren't Taurs. Theft of the wine is very serious offense, not one to be tossed aside because it may be a new Taur." Raorr shakes his head and continues speaking angrily "I will not veiw this Satyr as Kin. He is dead in my eyes, his time is limited and only ^His^ judgement will allow him to live." He looks to the rest of the now docile group memebers "Are you all so easily manipulated by small creatures? Are they so cute and pretty that you would make fools of yourselves while they prepare to escape the area? This one is now awake" Poianting at the Satyr. " From all the noise these small creatues are making it is obvious they are communicating some battle plan. Let us deal with them quickly and with out killing them for now! Round them up and let Justice be found later."
He looks over to KAle "Perhaps we will postpone until this new crisis is over."
With that Raorr Raises his sheild and point the Glaive at one of the small creatures and says "Don't move little one"
Kenisha Tuesday June 5th, 2001 9:01:56 PM
Kenisha shakes her head at Raorr. "They are speaking in a language called Common, my good Taur. They are explaining about Sargasso, the satyr. Although what the satyr is saying is beyond me, but I suspect it's more colorful expletives rather than battle plans."
"And as to your accusation of being manipulated by these ones, I must remind you that I brought up the fact first that Sargasso must be made aware of his transgression and be dealt with."
Addressing everyone and repeating it over in Common after she finishes it in Taur, Kenisha says, "Now lets all just settle down and get this matter addressed without any more waving of weapons, please!"
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday June 5th, 2001 10:13:12 PM
Looking at Zeoll he says,"Do not the upper bodies of centaurs look like both the humans and the elves. Perhaps humans and elves are part of the taurs we need to unite. If their lives are so inconsequential to you then I fear uniting the taurs will not occur. It is such an attitude as yours that causes the minotaurs to fight the centaurs. The theft of wine is the theft of wine. Just because they seem to be harmless and the satyr looks in some ways taurish does not change their crime. If we are so lenient on this one perhaps I should go and rouse the centaur. The humans, dwarves, and elves entered without permission but we found no evidence that they stole the wine yet. You could just have easily struck from ambush to render unconcious. You cannot have it both ways Zeoll these seemingly undangerous creatures ARE AS GUILTY as the humans. I stand with Raorr and these creatures must be taken into custody as well. If they resist they must be dealt with as harshly as the others were." Kalon then moves to stand by Raorr.
Oh, My Achin' Head..! (DM Donna) Wednesday June 6th, 2001 6:01:29 AM
The satyr blinks groggily, looking around at the flying tiny beings and then at the Taurs standing all around him. He says something in a sharp tone, and the sprite that is hanging onto the flask in Kale's hand immediately releases it, turning and speaking back to the satyr in a rapid, high-pitched voice. The satyr groans and then says something else. All of the flying creatures exchange rather alarmed glances at each other, then suddenly all land on the ground. The satyr grunts something again...and the sprites all react to it, slowly putting down their tiny little weapons and raising their hands in the air.
"There, now," the satyr brays roughly in Tauric, "My bloodthirsty hoarde of berserker warriors is now completely at your mercy--whaddaya wanna do? Stomp on 'em?" His sarcasm, however, seems to trigger off a headache, and he winces, putting one hand up to his temple.
"By the gods, that Purple stuff packs a helluva wallop!" the satyr groans, then squints up and around at you all, his bloodshot eyes glinting with humor. "Okay, people...whom do I explain myself to, hmmm? Oh--and does anyone have anything for the Wold's biggest hangover..?"
Kale Wednesday June 6th, 2001 8:11:13 AM
Kale shruggs his shoulders at Raorr as the sprite releases the skin. "Talk to them." Kale says to the satyre, pointing at Raorr and Kalon
Flat-top Wednesday June 6th, 2001 10:14:48 AM
As Flat-top and Ciera leves the buiding (through the nwe door in the east wall) and meet with the rest of the taurs and sees the goattaur on the ground. Flat-top tells Ceira,"Here's another one, wonder what he is doing here?" Then Flat-top look over to Zeoll (and he really does not look to well)"Well! You look down and out! Leets Why don't you come over here and lay your hands on this taur and give Zeoll a booster shot of life?"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday June 6th, 2001 10:23:05 AM
Ceira is a bit intimidated by Raorr's intentions but realizes he speaks the truth. Cute critters certainly have a way of portraying innocence.
She stands next to the sprites so she can listen to their chattering.
Kenisha Wednesday June 6th, 2001 10:33:25 AM
Kenisha shakes her head at the satyr; amused at his situation. "You have to explain yourself to the owners of this vineyard and accept whatever punishment they deem appropriate. As to the headache, I think you should have to suffer it. After all you did imbibe wine tht didn't belong to you."
"Flat-top, this satyr was the One-eyed Flying Purple Creature a few moments ago. It seems he's a shapechanger of sorts. Although I am wondering if that was just a side effect of his drinking the purple wine.
Leets d20+4=11 Wednesday June 6th, 2001 11:32:38 AM
The young paladin comes closer to Zeoll at Flat-Top's words.
"I would gladly help Zeoll if I could, but the power of my faith has already cured one body today...However, mother taught me how to cure wounds in a more usual way..."
Leets tears a long part of his white tunic, opens his water barrel, and tries to clean and dress Zeoll's wounds as well as he can, looking quite often at the new taurs...
(rolling for healing)
Thiel Wednesday June 6th, 2001 11:46:25 AM
Thiel looks at the newcomers carefully, thinking of Raorr's words.
"Hmm...I don't completely agree with you Raorr. Those would be criminals if they where aware of our laws, and especially those concerning the wine, but they don't even speak tauric...How would you want them to know our laws? Although they have effectively been taking something that wasn't theirs, I wonder if that is really a criminal offense in their way... On the other hand, the centaur, the dwarves and the half-elves we caught were perfectly aware of those laws, because one of them, probably their leader, worked here..."
Thiels thinks for a couple of seconds, and says to the Satyr:
"My name's Thiel, and I'm a taur priest, as such, I have to tell you that the theft of the wine you drank is punished by our laws. Anyway, even if you did know, you'd have better talk with the boss of the vineyard: you have been causing troubles around recently, and you probably should explain your case yourself, since you are able to do it..."
Zeoll Wednesday June 6th, 2001 1:28:20 PM
The liontaur submits gladly to the centaur's healing hands. "Thank you, my frriend," he tells Leets.
To Raorr, in Taurric, he says, "I neverr said we should give favorrable treatment to the Satyrr, especially if he has taken wine that was not his. I simply say that he helped us, and his help should be weighed in the accounting."
To Kalon, in Wemic, he says, "I attacked the criminals and called for their surrender. I did not try to kill the human, but in a fight, people die. That is the way of battle, Domi's way. If I had pulled my blows, I would have done more poorly [OOC: in game terms, I think it's a -4 to hit if you want to do subdual damage], and perhaps I would have died. I commanded them to yield, but they did their best to kill me. I have nothing to apologize for -- in fact, I thank the God of Battle for his help in my victory."
To the satyr, in Common, Zeoll says, "Thank you forr yourr help, though you may not rrememberr giving it! Now do tell us yourr storry -- and how you came to drrink the Sacrred Wine."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday June 7th, 2001 12:54:49 AM
Looking at Zeoll,"It is easy to justify one's actions when one is the victor in a battle. I think it is a poor excuse for killing a person...any person who never even knew what killed him." Then looking toward Thiel, "You of course presume the centaur told them anything at all about what they were stealing. Only one of them spoke even a little tauric. Perhaps they know as little as the satyr here does. I believe them to be guilty of stealing the wine but mercy is easily defined by the victors as is justice. I wish to see both administered in equal measure to all the thieves"
Another Newcomer (DM Donna) d20=17 Thursday June 7th, 2001 6:34:48 AM
Zeoll finds that the bandaging and further TLC helps him to regain another 2 hit points, plus his Constitution bonus (total of 4hp cured.)
Just then, everyone hears the thud of approaching hoofbeats. (OOC: made a general Listen check for the party--the unadjusted roll is 17.)
"Firehoof--report!" says the sharp voice of Silkshanks Surefoot. The centaur guard quickly runs down what has happened this night, up to and including the metamorphosis of the satyr. The older mare eyes the satyr, then addresses Firehoof again.
"Make sure that Puller and his cohorts get a hasty escort to the city constabulary, Firehoof, then come back here and help the rest of the guards assess the damage." Silky orders. "Meanwhile...all the rest of you can follow me back to the main house, so we can give this...Sargasso, is it..?" The satyr nods, winces, and then mumbles an affirmative. "...Sargasso...a chance to explain himself before I decide whether to press charges against him." With this, the owner of the Surefoot Family Vineyards turns and starts to lead the way back to her house.
Zeoll Thursday June 7th, 2001 7:08:46 AM
Zeoll shrugs.
"Well, I forr one am looking forrwarrd to the satyrr's storry. Let's hang togetherr and see what develops."
Kale Thursday June 7th, 2001 9:56:41 AM
"We must be a party of priests, cause we sure like to lecture and preach to each other." Kale grumbles to himself as he follows the constible
Flat-top d20+1=21 Thursday June 7th, 2001 10:46:53 AM
(OOC: made my Listen Check of 21)
"I agree somewhat with you Kale. But Kalon, Domi has chosen you for your gifted talent. And Domi chose Zeoll for his special talents. As far as I know WE were all chosen for what ever Domi saw in all of us. So judgment belong to Domi."
At this point Flat-top hears hoofbeats coming this way. "Quick! Ceira tell all those little Taurs to fly on to my back, so that all those hooves and paws won't hurt them, please."
Kenisha Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:13:52 PM
In Common Kenisha says, "Come along, little ones. We shall get all this settled one way or another up at the house." With that, she will gesture with one hand for them to follow Surefoot.
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday June 7th, 2001 11:20:49 PM
"Your sarcasm Sargasso is not going to help your situation. Your friends may not of understood my threats before when they played pranks on this party. But I'm sure KEnisha would translate them for them now. I don't appreciate your kind's humour. Nor that of your friends. I am not a nice person, a would gladly kill you for the crimes you committed but since I travel with this group I will and have been more lenient." Raorr lowers the weapon he was pointing. "TEll your friends to follow you to the manorhouse. I'm sure the owner will be more forgiving than myself."
RAorr begins to follow the group and tries to stay near Kalon. e tries to whisper in his ear "Why does everyone seem so curious about these creatures. Their puny, annoying and worse of all trouble-makers. They don't even have the respect to learn Tauric, how crude."
Raorr straightens up, and continues walking. "Maybe later you can show me a little of that bare hand fighting you did back there Kalon?"
Kalon the Wemic Friday June 8th, 2001 12:46:31 AM
Kalon looks at Flat-top,"Yes domi did choose us but I would not consider myself worthy of his choice if I did not do as I see fit. Justice and mercy must be delivered equally. If we are so quick to kill those who do not look like us and equally quick to spare those that do look like us. We will never unite the taurs casual death is far easier then mercy. A feeling of one being superior does not make one superior. The wars between the centaurs and minotaurs were started over differing beliefs and feelings of superiority." he looks towards the prisoners being lead away,"I feel shame for Zeoll's ruthlessness even if nobody else does."
Kalon listened to and smiled toward the large minotaur,"You know my friend you are large and powerful but many see you as a troublemaker. should we dislike you because of that. Is it not equally rude that you have not learned their language. As for teaching you the way I fight I would be happy to show you all that I have learned." turning from the minotaur he moved after the other prisoners,"As our great god has brought us together as part of his great plan. I go to make sure justice and mercy is administered in equal measure to those who have no advocate for them. The little ones and the satyr have enough advocates"
Ceira Karwyn d20+1=2 Friday June 8th, 2001 1:35:05 AM
(OOC: Diplomacy=2. Not very convincing. ^_-)
Ceira helps Kennisha round up the sprites. Her mind is elsewhere as she attempts to coax the sprites. As a result, she speaks her mind when she shouldn't be. "Now now... It's only a big centaur. The worst that can happen is your wings will be plucked and then your grounded bodies will be stepped on. Do sprites go *splat* or *splut*? Nevermind. This is just hypothetical situation. Don't worry..."
The Party Moves to the House (DM Donna) Friday June 8th, 2001 7:53:02 AM
The tiny creatures all look rather terrified at Ceira's words. Sargasso, however, chuckles and says something in that language nobody present can seem to understand. The sprites all look at each other and then--looking rather sheepish--take Flat-top up on his offer, using the centaur's back as transport back to Silky's house.
Silky leads everyone up the road to her residence, where she shows you into her great room. Once inside, Silky beckons to the satyr.
"Now, please...Sargasso, is it?...please tell me why you're here--and what's been happening?"
"Milady," Sargasso bows, wincing as his aching head doesn't quite agree with the motion, "I am not your usual satyr, for I was not content to stay in the woods in which I was spawned. No, I was struck with wanderlust. So--about four or five years ago--I picked up my satchel and my pipes and started exploring the Wold. My friends here--" The satyr gestures to the sprites and grigs on Flat-top's back, "--were loyal enough to come with me, even though my wanderings brought me to cities like the Big Float, the Emerald City, and--the latest--Lankhmar.
"I was in the Silver Eel Tavern in Lankhmar when I heard tell of the wonderfully potent properties of the Wold-famous Purple Wine of the Taur Isles. The more I heard, the more I wanted to...ah...sample some myself. However, the Silver Eel was out of Purple. So I resolved to come to the Taur Isles to try some. I ended up here, in your vineyard...some grotto or something that was a little ways away from your storage facilities. I just...followed my nose to the tasting room in the building and...well...I tasted some.
"Next thing I know, I woke up surrounded by centaurs...and minotaurs and wemics...and with this killer headache." the satyr sums up. "Ziggy...what happened after I tasted the wine..?" The grig blinks uncomprehendingly at Sargasso, since the satyr is speaking in Tauric.
"Hold on--" Silky says, going over to a desk in one corner of the great room and returning with an amulet, which she hands to the tiny grasshopperoid. "Now--tell us what happened after Sargasso here drank some Purple Wine."
"OOOOOO! Ziggy is knowing the wordspeaks now!" the grig says in understandable Tauric, astonished. "Yes, yes--Sargasso not listening when testing the oldgrapedrink Milkpod is saying...silly satyr! He go glug-glug--"
"Well--silly satyr is being too hurryhurry! Being just like yellowberry time! Purple oldgrapedrink has twinkleglitterlights--just like yellowberries! Sargasso knowing that satyrs and twinkleglitterlights not being goodly together...Sargasso go snoozywoozy and growing into one-eye-one-horn-flying-purple-oldgrapedrinker." Ziggy settles into silence, apparently finished, and looks from face to face as though you should all know what he is talking about.
Kale Friday June 8th, 2001 9:38:22 AM
"That makes alot of sense." Kale says to Ziggy's story
Flat-top Friday June 8th, 2001 11:20:54 AM
After listening to Ziggy's story, put his hand over his mouth and"Tee Hee Snicker one-eye-one-horn-flying-purple-oldgrapedrinker. Ha Ha He He now that's funny doun't you think? Kalon? Kale? Ceira? Raorr?
Kenisha Friday June 8th, 2001 11:47:12 AM
Vainly trying to hide a smile, Kenisha asks Ziggy, "Just how much of the Purple Oldgrapedrink did Sargasso actually drink? And what part have you and your companions played in the pranks that have deluged this vineyard?"
Zeoll Sunday June 10th, 2001 12:32:38 AM
The liontaur struggles to understand, and is not sure he succeeds. "But my question," he asks in common and in Taur, "Is who arre those humans, elves, and dwarrves. What do you know about them?"
Kalon the Wemic Sunday June 10th, 2001 12:36:13 PM
Kalon continues along following the prisoners As they are lead away.
Raorr the Minotaur Monday June 11th, 2001 12:46:56 AM
Raorr seems very conscerned.
Raorr says nodding his head. "I see, Sargasso and other Satyrs have problem with twinkleglitterlights, and knows this. He went out of his way to find the wine, and knowing it's not his consumed it. All the while realizing that his race is unable to handle twinkleglitterlights of the wine."
"Well looks like case is closed and Sargasso is guilty, this is very obvious the intention shown, evidence and past history of problems with certain alchols. I beleive all that is left is for Silky to press charges and let the officals set the trail or what ever it is they do here in the Centaur Isle."
Raorr looks over to Ziggy and says "I'm sure your co-operation will be acknowledged however you will be responsible for participating in his crimes, Guilt by associtation I believe it called. It's a shame I was looking forward to a good fight, oh well. I'll live with it."
Ceira Karwyn Monday June 11th, 2001 2:14:52 AM
Ceira scratches her head in wonder. "Yes... good question Zeoll. Just what part do those humanoids have in all of this?"
Further Clarification (DM Donna) Monday June 11th, 2001 7:17:46 AM
Sargasso heaves a sigh after Raorr's little speech is finished.
"Well...that's not QUITE true, my dear sir," the satyr corrects the minotaur, "The 'twinkleglitterlights' that Ziggy is referring to is the minor magic aura that surrounds certain plants of the Wold. I, myself, don't have the ability to see the aura, though sprites do. The yellowberries are what Woldian sages refer to as 'ascarpi'...a magic berry that--when harvested and pressed--is the basis for a lot of different magic potions."
Those with the skill have the option of rolling a Spellcraft check with a bonus of 4 in order to confirm that what Sargasso is saying is, indeed, correct.
"I once ate a...ummmm...a goodly amount of wild ascarpi, and...well...I didn't react too well to its magical properties..." The satyr blushes a bit.
"Sargasso turning sunnygoldflame ALL over!" Ziggy pipes up helpfully. "Silly yellow bumpy satyr!"
"Thank you, Ziggy!" snaps Sargasso, then he addresses the rest of you in a milder voice: "I have NO idea whom those humanoids were, though--these sprites and grigs are my friends."
"Yes, yes!" the grig with the amulet chirps, nodding. "We being Sargasso friends--having to keep stinkybreath purple Sargasso from scaring horsey peoples...tricks and diversions Sargasso friends pulling to keep horsey peoples busy--keep horsey peoples away from Sargasso until Sargasso is satyr again."
"I...should have waited until the vineyard was open and asked you to sample the wine, m'lady." Sargasso admits to Silky. "I was too eager, and then I didn't listen to my friends when they tried to tell me that they detected that your Purple Wine was slightly magic. I'm sorry."
"Hmmm." Silky says, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "I must have this checked out by my people...Sargasso, I'm going to have you escorted to some quarters until we can confirm what you're telling us." The satyr sighs and nods.
"You are all welcome to spend the rest of the night here..." Silky says to the Taurs. "I've got plenty of room and you all deserve to hear what my people find out about all this."
The head of the vineyards summons a sleepy-looking servant, who yawns and beckons you to follow him to your quarters. Meanwhile, a pair of more alert centaurs are assigned to Sargasso and his miniscule crew.
Kale Monday June 11th, 2001 8:18:51 AM
Kale pulls out a dagger and starts to clean his fingernails with it. "That was easy enough." Kale says to no on in paticular as he begins to follow the servent
Flat-top Monday June 11th, 2001 10:33:54 AM
Flat-top look to see that Kale is a little bored and trots over to him, ask "What do you say if we are roomies? We can swap lies? "And a few stories on our battles? You take the bed and I sleep on my hooves anyway, I'll just lean on the wall." They both follow the servant, "What do you say? Huh Kale?"
Leets Monday June 11th, 2001 4:11:35 PM
The young paladin yawns in the doorway and opens the door shown by the servant...
"Thanks! Sorry for awaking you...Have a nice end of night!"
"Hey! Good night everybody!"
Leets enters his room, puts his package on the ground and quickly falls in a deep sleep...
Thiel Monday June 11th, 2001 4:16:34 PM
Thiel gets a last disappointed look at the satyr and his friends, wishing he could have spent more time with them...
He finally follows the servant and his friends.
"Well, have nice dreams you all, we had a long day..."
"and perhaps this headache will be gone tomorrow morning..."
Kenisha d20+10=29 Monday June 11th, 2001 9:00:44 PM
Kenisha nods as Sargasso explains about the ascarpi and the "twinkleglitterlights".
"Goodnight." she says to everyone as she follows the servant out. She will fall into whatever bed she is shown to and soon fall asleep.
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:44:45 AM
Raorr will find a room and sleep.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday June 12th, 2001 1:06:38 AM
Kalon continues to follow the prisoners till they get to where they will be held. He then waits outside of where they are held until the authorities come to question or arrest them.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday June 12th, 2001 1:58:34 AM
*YAWN*
"We should interrogate those humanoid prisoners tomorrow. As for now..." Ceira reaches high in a mighty stretch. "it's time to rest."
Zeoll Tuesday June 12th, 2001 4:06:51 AM
Zeoll will join Kalon until the prisoners are all secured. Then he'll say a few prayers and go to sleep too.
The Aftermath
The Next Morning (DM Donna) Tuesday June 12th, 2001 5:51:53 AM
(OOC: Hmmm...perhaps I garbled the description of the centaurs that came and took the smugglers away, because they were the city guard--who then marched the prisoners off to the city constabulary to be locked up. Oh, well. In any case, Kalon and Zeoll are able to go back to where the others are guests of Silkshanks and spend a nice, comfy night at the main house.)
The new day dawns bright and clear. The servants of the house allow the party members to sleep until they feel rested and serve up a fresh and rather lavish repast for the Taurs to break their fast (Silky is not there at the table, however). Zeoll is given a chalice that contains sacred Blue Wine.
"This is a curative potion that M'lady Silkshanks requested be given to you in view of the wounds you've bravely suffered in defending the Blue that has been dispatched to the Temple." the butler--a dappled gray male-- explains. "Your injuries will heal completely when you drink it." The butler offers the Blue to anyone else in the party whom may still have unhealed wounds from the previous night.
"Is there anything else that anyone here needs or wants..?" the butler asks, looking around.
Kale Tuesday June 12th, 2001 9:56:41 AM
"Wellllll.......I could use some finacial compensation for me and companions. Its hard work bringing justice to the Wold, and unfortunatly we have expense's that need to be covered in order to protect the Wold from evil and villiany." Kale says to the butler. then he turns to Flat-Top. "You talk in your sleep."
Flat-top Tuesday June 12th, 2001 10:52:14 AM
"Welllll...... You Snore and Snort. But Kale, your right we could use some reward compensation. That Base Place is expensive." Flat-top turns to the butler and ask, "Is there a place to practice our fighting skill or wrestling skill?" Then whispers to Kale,* I'd rather practice with you, than practice with Raorr!*
Leets Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:01:10 PM
Leets almost chokes while drinking a bowl of milk.
"A compensation!?!?! You don't even think of it! It was a holy quest, and it is the duty of any Taur to investigate if the holy wine is stolen! We don't deserve anything for doing it..."
Thiel Tuesday June 12th, 2001 12:14:01 PM
Thiel seems to be lost in his thoughts while having his breakfast. He remains silent, slightly smiling when seeing the chalice, and whispering a blessing.
Kenisha Tuesday June 12th, 2001 10:37:55 PM
Kenisha thanks the butler. "While I am still a bit stiff, I do believe I've healed up quite nicely. (ooc- we heal up our level plus Con bonus right?)
Turning to the others she says, "As to compensaton, I feel we are not owed anything, but freely given donations are acceptable. We should not expect payment for doing good.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday June 13th, 2001 12:33:56 AM
OOC: Before returning to the party he will tell the authorities that he wishes to be informed when the prisoners are to be judged.
As the morning arrived Kalon was up to greet the sun. Dissappointed with his performance since the beginning of the quest he practices his tumbling and unarmed combat till the others gather for. Taking the chalice when offered he offers a prayer of thanks then drinks it down. At Kale's mention of compensation he merely shakes his head and remains silent.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday June 13th, 2001 1:50:28 AM
Ceira's eyes light up at the mention of the word 'compensation'. However, after hearing some of the opinions of the other Taurs, she decides to remain silent on the matter.
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday June 13th, 2001 5:47:16 AM
Raorr will eat and reamins unusually quiet again. He seems to have something he wishes to say but obviously doesn't want to either offend someone or else he doesn't think it's worth saying.
The Breakfast Club (DM Donna) Wednesday June 13th, 2001 7:00:41 AM
(OOC: About healing: unaided healing IS, indeed, one hit point per level plus whatever [positive] Constitution bonus the character has per night or rest period.)
The butler arches an eyebrow at Kale's words, then listens silently as the rest of the Taurs voice their particular views about the subject.
"On the subject of compensation for your services, ladies and gentlemen," he says with a faint trace of disdain in his voice, "...I can only humbly refer you to Mistress Surefoot." After everyone who chooses to has drunk of the sacred Blue, the manservant bears away the rest of the wine and continues to provide prompt, polite service until breakfast is ended.
"And now, ladies and gentlemen," the butler announces, "M'lady awaits your presence at her office in the administration building." He bows and goes over to the door to hold it open for the party to leave.
Kale Wednesday June 13th, 2001 9:41:37 AM
"You all may think that good deeds will keep food in your belly, but it wont. Gold will. I dont know about any of you, but ive been in the streets, starving and wondering when my next meal is. If you all are too good or holy to accept payment for services rendered, so be it. That just means more for me." Kale says as he walks out the door, not waiting for anyone
Flat-top Wednesday June 13th, 2001 11:04:27 AM
Flat-top stands there and watches Kale walk out the door and tell the others,"You Taurs never really went hungry DID you? I can tell that at one time, he almost starved!" Then Flat-top followed Kale out the door.
Kenisha Wednesday June 13th, 2001 11:50:56 AM
"I know about hunger. I also know how to fish for my meat, gather herbs for my health, make wine and leather goods to sell. If Mistress Surefoot wishes to give us something for our efforts, that is fine, but I will not force her to do so."
Leets Wednesday June 13th, 2001 5:07:50 PM
Leets shrugs his shoulders.
"I have a tale for you Kale, one my mother once told me...
One day a King was visiting a great conqueror, known for his kindness, and who was now ruling a great Empire, far bigger than his kingdom. When he arrived, he was surprised. The Emperor's castle didn't look that luxuruous for such a man. As he was walking with all his court, he noticed that there weren't many servants. Finally, he asked some questions to the people he met, and discovered that the Emperor had a simple, humble life. When the King met the Emperor, he asked him why he wasn't imposing more taxes, and explained that a man like him deserved more than he had. The Emperor laughed, and asked the King what was enough for a man like him. The king told him a number. The Emperor then asked for the treasurer of the King to come closer. He asked him to knock at the first hundred of doors he would meet, and to ask to the people who were living there how much they could give for their Emperor. The treasurer came back a couple of hours later, and told a number ten times bigger than the one the King said. He also told that the people had asked if the Emperor had troubles. The King then laughed too, and understood that the Emperor was far more richer than him, although his treasure was not gold nor money...
You have to understand, Kale, that one that follow the path of good and justice shall not be afraid of starving nor craving, for he sowed the seeds of gratitude behind him, and will always be welcome to share one's bread or jug of water..."
Thiel Wednesday June 13th, 2001 5:09:25 PM
"Hmmm...I have been wondering...Have you ever heard of those creatures, perhaps Taurs, that we met? I really wonder from where they come from..."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday June 13th, 2001 10:05:08 PM
Listening to Leets story Kalon nods in agreement,"Kale can only think of himself and will never be able to have enough good Leets for his imaginings of what is great is far beyond what truly is great."
Then running to catch up to Kale Kalon reaches into his backpack taking out the half of a sugarhoof he had saved from yesterday,"Here good Kale if your stomach is empty take this perhaps it can fill he" he offers the stale sugarhoof to Kale.
Zeoll Thursday June 14th, 2001 5:42:05 AM
Zeoll is grateful for the healing and offers his gratitude.
As for the recompense, all the wemic has to say is, "Imod will prrovide."
And the Beat Goes On... (DM Donna) Thursday June 14th, 2001 7:22:44 AM
(OOC: Just waiting for everybody in the party to go over to Silky's office as hinted at in my last post.)
Leets Thursday June 14th, 2001 7:46:54 AM
Once he has finished his story, Leets finishes his bowl of milk quickly and walks to the door.
Thiel Thursday June 14th, 2001 7:49:52 AM
As he stands and walk to the door, the minotaur priest says:
"perhaps Silky can tell us more about those beings?"
Kale Thursday June 14th, 2001 8:35:26 AM
Kale stops and slaps the sugar out of Kalon's hand. then he calms down a bit, then begins to unfasten the clasps on his robe. after a few moments it falls to the ground, revealing Kale's ragged body. burns and scars are all over his body, with strange tattoed writing along his arms and legs. on his head are the jagged remains of his horns, broken long ago. from his belt on the ground Kale picks up his mace, stretches his arms a bit, then turns to Kalon and says "Its obvious you dont like me or want me here. Now is your chance to do something about it." then he takes a step back and awaits Kalon's reaction
Flat-top Thursday June 14th, 2001 10:57:33 AM
Flat-top was following Kale, when things started to happen between Kale and Kalon. Flat-top bends down and picks up Kale's robe, 'Kale I understand you better than most and I'll fight anybody who want you out of this party." Flat-top turns to Kalon and points out the burns, scars, tattoos and jagged horns, and telling Kalon "You see all this, Kale is not hungry in the way you and I are hungry. Kale is hungry in his sole and that is the worst kind of hunger. And remember that Domi wanted Kale here....." Then they turn and all go into the office.
Kenisha Thursday June 14th, 2001 11:10:56 AM
Kenisha follows the others. When Kale challenges Kalon, she says, "You still have not settled your fight with Raorr, Kale. Perhaps you should settle the matter with Raorr before picking any more fights."
Turning to Kalon, "And you should know better than insulting a minotaur."
Then she simply passes them both by and goes to Silky's office.
Kalon the Wemic Thursday June 14th, 2001 9:14:47 PM
Looking at Kenisha,"I insulted nobody Kenisha the hunger Kale feels can only be filled with violence and anger. I took no offense when I was offered a sugar-hoof why should he"
Looking at Kale,"I can see from your body you have had a rough life. Anger will not solve anything, no amount of gold can ever fill the hole in your angry soul. I am unarmed and I will not fight you. This honor you seem to speak of is a flimsy excuse for your need for violence. It will not satisfy you to kill me so then I say go ahead" calling to the others,"How will we mend the hole torn in the taur's collective soul when we cannot even heal the pain in one of us. Violence comes easily to us compassion is far more difficult, far more difficult" then looking back at Kale,"I offered you food to feed you and you knocked it away obviously you don't need food"
Kalon then reaches into his backpack and pulls out the amulet he was given,"Here perhaps this can bring you what you need" he extends it towards Kale."Take it if you wish and sell it"
OOC: If Kale attacks Kalon will not attempt to avoid it. Using no Dex or Wis bonuses to AC
Raorr the Minotaur d20+5=17 d20+9=23 d20+9=11 d4+4=7 d4+4=6 d20+1=20 Friday June 15th, 2001 12:43:11 AM
Raorr gets up from the table leaving the Glaive & Shield at the table. He mubles something to the Sheild. He drops the fork he was eating with and places his Spiked Gauntlet on his Right Hand and follows the group, and as he speaks he moves toward The obvious Kale/Kalon faceoff he gives Kale a glare "What a suprise, Kale had a tough life. I don't think that anyone here had a simple life. If you want to scoff Kalon's gift of a Surgarhoof, and still want wealth than perhaps you should go rescue the creature we caught and free them. While your at it free the Humans and Dwarves. Join them, and rob the temples of the Human lands, for they have great wealth even more than all the Taurs in the Wold have. You'll never be hungry and never need money."
Raorr pauses "Of course that would be bad and your a Good Taur so, maybe instead you should marry a Rich Trader's daughter, he'll pay you to marry her, you'll have money then and a wife. A simple normal life of course, you grow old and die a rich old man from humble beginnings."
"Of course that would be a boring life for you, I sense constant danger is what you want, something to keep you on your toes. A Close friend and to seek out your own wealth. I guess that means you'll stick around a little longer, Silky will give you something of course, You'll refuse Kalon's offer solely because if you accepted it Someone here would tell you that you are greedy, and that would hurt your feelings. And anyone who does that must be silenced, a threat, like the one you gave Kalon, or the one I made to You."
"Of course on that Note I feel now is as good a time as any to deal with it"
Raorr Lunges toward Kale with a Surprise Attack.
Raorr will attempt to Grapple Kale.
*** (OOC Melee Touch attack to initiate Grapple - 17 (Ignores Armour, natural and unnatural)
Note: If considered Flat-flooted Kale gets no Attack of Opportunity, unless he's a 3rd-Level Rogue or 2nd-Level Barbarian.)
Kayleb...Kayleb! (DM Donna) Friday June 15th, 2001 6:48:59 AM
Well, well...it seems that the postponed kayleb between Raorr and Kale has been initiated by the barbarian, but before Raorr can do anything more than lunge towards the tattoed and scarred rogue, Thiel sticks his foot out and trips Raorr.
"As I recall, brothers," he says in the frosty tone of a confirmed member of the Soul of Imod, "I am the chosen Counselor of this particular Kayleb between the two of you--it is for me to declare exactly when it starts and exactly when it ends...otherwise it will be considered dishonorable." The minotaur cleric looks from Raorr to Kale and back again.
"Silkshanks Surefoot isn't through with us yet," Thiel reminds the entire party, "Plus I don't think that it's a good idea to make a personal kayleb public. We will wait until we return to Heartkeep before starting this up again. Understood..?" Once more Thiel eyes Raorr and then Kale, waiting for the would-be combatants to agree before moving on towards Silky's administration building.
Kale Friday June 15th, 2001 8:25:17 AM
after Raorr lands on his face, Kale takes his robe from Flat-Top and says to Kalon. "You stood your ground and said what you belive in. I respect that. And I agree with you about honor. My own "honorable" people did this to me. And you can see another example of of our "honor" lying on the ground." he says as he points to Raorr. then he puts on his robe and fastens his belt, sliding his mace back in its hiding place. "I dont ask anyone to feel sorry for me or even to understand me, all that I ask is that you all dont jump to conclusions on the actions I take without considering all possibilities." Kale says then he joins Flat-Top and walks to the office
Kalon the Wemic Friday June 15th, 2001 9:44:54 AM
Watching Kale walk away Kalon thinks to himself,"A strange one to be sure". Then turning to the prone offers him a hand up.
OOC: if it is refused he will just keep walking after the rest stopping to pick up whatever is left (if anything) of the sugarhoof. If it is accepted he will help Raorr up then pick up the sugarhoof and keep walking. If Raorr attacks him he will allow it to happen as with Kale.
Flat-top Friday June 15th, 2001 10:31:57 AM
As Flat-top and Kale walk into the office. Flat-top whispers to Kale, "I don't feel sorry for you, but I do understand. And that's why I'll stick by you, Friend." Looking back Raorr on the grown and to Wise Kalon, Flat-top thinks to himself * I have to thank Kalon for the interference, being in the middle I could have been really hurt back there.*
Raorr the Minotaur Friday June 15th, 2001 2:47:50 PM
Raorr takes Kalon's offer to help stand up. He and brushes himself off and says "I left something behind I'll catch up in a moment"
With that RAorr rushes back to the Room where the meal was served and picks up the rest of his gear and leaves the building.
Kenisha Friday June 15th, 2001 8:07:11 PM
Kenisha nods silently to Kalon before continuing on and enterinbg the office.
Back at the Admin Building (DM Donna) Monday June 18th, 2001 6:54:41 AM
Once everyone returns to the building that houses Silky's office (OOC: I need to see everyone post that they are there, or I can't continue on with this module), the secretary nods to the party and immediately shows you all into the spacious chamber, where everyone sees Silky speaking earnestly to Sargasso. The tiny sprites don't appear to be in sight.
Ceira Karwyn Monday June 18th, 2001 8:30:24 AM
Wishing not to get involved with these masculine honor issues, Ceira has willfully been keeping silent during her walk towards Silky's building.
Ceira cordially nods towards the secretary as she enters the office. After being led to Silky's chamber, Ceira thanks the secretary as she waits in anticipation with what Silky has to say.
Kale Monday June 18th, 2001 9:57:10 AM
Kale shows Flat-Top the briefest of smiles at his comments and pats him on the shoulder. then he enters Silky's office and finds himself a place to sit
Kalon the Wemic Monday June 18th, 2001 11:15:25 AM
After helping Raorr to his feet he lets out a long sigh then enters the administration building.
Kenisha Monday June 18th, 2001 11:44:35 AM
Kenisha offers greetings once she is in the room. "Good morning Silky; and to you as well Sargasso." She then finds a place to sit.
Flat-top Monday June 18th, 2001 12:18:51 PM
Flat-top follows behind Kale in to Silky's chamber and smiles (in passing) at the secretary. Nod to Silky and Sargasso, "Morning to the both of you." Then trot over to stand next to seated Kale.
Leets Monday June 18th, 2001 6:08:06 PM
Leets nods at the secretary, and enters Silky's room.
"Good morning! Let me thank you again for the breakfast, I wish I had such every morning."
He then looks at Sargasso.
"So, did you clear this situation?"
Raorr the Minotaur Monday June 18th, 2001 7:43:15 PM
Raorr returns realizing he has no idea where this "Heartkeep" Theil refered to is located he returns back to the Building, grumbling.
Zeoll Tuesday June 19th, 2001 6:13:47 AM
Zeoll takes a place at Silky's office, waiting to see what develops.
Here's the Story... (DM Donna) Tuesday June 19th, 2001 8:22:38 AM
"My people have determined that the vineyard was invaded by two different parties with two different agendas." Silky tells you as you all settle in to listen. "The first set of invaders was Puller and his human friends." The mare snorts derisively.
"Puller was employed here some time ago, but he drank--a LOT--on the job, so Tailthwacker fired him. Puller hooked up with his bunch of two-leggers...oh, excuse me..." Silky blushes as she realizes that minotaurs and Sargasso all qualify as "two-leggers" also, "...he knew about how we operated, and got that section of the fence secretly replaced so that his crew could literally walk in and pilfer all the Purple Wine they could carry. This has been going on for months, and it explains the inventory shortage my head accountant Browser has been complaining about these past two quarters." Silky shakes her head, but then she smiles at the members of the party.
"According to the city guard, you did a very good job capturing those smugglers." she says proudly. "Apparently they are part of a band of pirates that are menacing the shipping lanes from here to the human mainland. They were hoping to make a fortune by taking this most recent shipment of Sacred Blue earmarked for the Temple ceremony tomorrow." Silky shudders.
"Thank you SO much for stopping them!" she continues. "I know that the Temple sent you here, but you've helped my family business by stopping those criminals, so I'd like to return the service by being the supplier of wine to your stronghold on that new island--what do you call that? Heartkeep, I believe..? Well, the Surefoot Family Vineyards will be honored to supply your stronghold with all the wine it will need...free of charge, of course."
Kale Tuesday June 19th, 2001 10:34:13 AM
not what i had in mind, Kale thinks to himself, but it will do. "What about him?" Kale asks as he points to Sargasso
Flat-top Tuesday June 19th, 2001 10:52:14 AM
Flat-top takes a step forward," We thank you very much, and I'm sure Domi will be please with you for doing so." Flat-top look around and asks Silky and Sargasso, " One question please! can you tell me what happen to the orthers? The little flying creators? You know the ones that crossed the Rainbow Gate?"
Leets Tuesday June 19th, 2001 3:01:19 PM
The young centaur paladin bows and smiles to Silky.
"Your wine will be welcome Silky, for our stronghold is a very holy place, and I don't think you'll suffer of this gift. Thanks again. However if you ever need my help in the future I shall serve you again if needed."
Kenisha Tuesday June 19th, 2001 8:41:30 PM
Kenisha smiles, "Thank you for this gift."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday June 19th, 2001 10:10:55 PM
Kalon asks of Silky,"Yes, I also would like to know what will happen to the satyr but I would also like know what is to become of the humans, elves and dwarves?"
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday June 19th, 2001 11:09:58 PM
"WEll I guess we have to finish the job we started." Raorr says flatly. "I believe Silky's subtly trying to tell us we should capture the res tof the pirates that this group were a part of." Looking over to Kale and FLat Foot, "If we finish taking out the pirates I'm sure the group will get something more perhaps wealth like you two wish to have. Even then fame and bravery would make Leets look good in the Eyes of the church perhaps." Raorr loosens his grip and then continues "I guess were going to go to the city then right."
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday June 20th, 2001 12:18:47 AM
"Your gift will be... ahem... put to good use." A slight grin emerges as she bows in respect.
"Raorr. You might be over-analyzing it a bit but maybe..." Ceira takes a quick glance at Silky for her reaction.
"But you do bring up a good point Raorr. The blue wine is very sacred. I would like to know what the clients of these pirates wishes to do with the blue wine. If they only wish to drink it, then I guess that's that. But if they have other motives, then there is a chance it could resurface elsewhere. That would be our chance to piece together the clues to trace their origins."
Zeoll Wednesday June 20th, 2001 5:55:52 AM
"Let me agrree with my brrethrren," Zeoll says, "We ask no rrewarrd but we arre grrateful for yourr gift."
"I still have questions, though. What about the satyrr? Should he be judged as a thief? Should he be trreated with leniency insofarr as he helped capturre otherr thieves? And why did the sacrred wine cause him to change shape? Wherre did the satyrr and his frriends come frrom, orr arre fey so common herre that it is not unusual?"
Details, Details..! (DM Donna) Wednesday June 20th, 2001 6:34:25 AM
"Whoa, there, my fine young minotaur!" Silky says, her eyes wide. "You misunderstand me--I have no authority to have you go after the pirates that are the plague of the shipping lanes...I was merely repeating the information that the city guard has come up with. And they can only assume that Puller's gang is affiliated with the pirates at all--none of them have confessed to being connected in that way...at least, not yet...not that I know of..." The mare shakes her head.
"However, to answer the monk's question: the authorities plan to charge the smugglers with the high crime of unlawful appropriation of Sacred Blue Wine...their investigation is gathering the evidence that proves that last night's raid would have been the fourth time this gang has taken the Sacred Blue...and we all know that the penalty for such blasphemy is death." Silky shakes her head. "The humanoids of that gang may get away with having their sentences commuted to life as slave labor, but Puller knew what he was doing--he will have his trial, and suffer the death penalty if the evidence in the trial holds true."
"My friends are here," Sargasso says to Flat-top amiably, "They are just...unseen." The satyr smiles as teeny giggles are heard from all over the office.
"As for Sargasso, here," Silky continues, "From what Tailthwacker and my other employees have been able to find out, this thirsty satyr is guilty of guzzling some Purple Wine. He never touched the Sacred Blue, and so I don't have to turn him over to the constabulary if I don't wish to--and, since he DID help you apprehend the smugglers--I think I'll pass on that."
"Thank you, Mistress Silky!" Sargasso says gratefully. "I really did NOT mean to be so...greedy, but your wine truly has a heady aroma, and I just...well, I just drank it even though Ziggy and the others told me not to. I'm sorry to have caused you concern...and I feel that it is only right I recompense you for your trouble..." With this, the satyr holds up a small leather satchel that has been hanging by his side since his transformation back to his original self.
"I was going to add that you owe me a good 75 silver for the wine you drank." Silky replies with a smile. Sargasso grins and removes a small pouch from the satchel, counting out gold pieces from it.
"Here is ten gold pieces for the wine AND your trouble!" the goatman insists. Silky bows her head and accepts the money. High-pitched whispering can be heard, and you see Milkpod slowly come into view on Sargasso's shoulder as she speaks earnestly to the satyr. Sargasso blinks and then nods.
"Milkpod says that you all could have killed me, but you decided not to..." he translates, rummaging once more through the satchel, "...so, although it is not much of a reward, I'd be most grateful if you would accept this gift from an appreciative forest-stomper..!" Sargasso holds out what appears to be a gold metallic oval the size of his palm.
Kale d20+3=22 Wednesday June 20th, 2001 8:39:24 AM
thats more like it, Kale thinks to himself. standing up and approaching the satyre, Kale asks if he may look at it closely. if it is given to him, Kale examines it carefully, trying to estimate its worth(apprasial check roll of 22)
Flat-top Wednesday June 20th, 2001 9:34:36 AM
Flat-top Smiled at Sargasso,"I'm glad to hear that and I should have known that true friends don't abandon you for a little bitty drink." Flat-top turns to Raorr and tells him,"I think we should guard the first shipment to the Heartkeep, if for nothing else to show the way for Roarr! Remember Domi drop him in the office when we got here. Nevertheless he(Raorr) should be shown the way back to Heartkeep." Then Flat-top addresses Roar," How about it? Do you want to go? I know of someone there that will be glad to see you!."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday June 20th, 2001 11:02:44 AM
Kalon looks distressed by what Silky says about the prisoners. Turning to the rest of the group,"I understand the law of our people and if enough evidence is found to convict Puller he should face his punishment fully. Yet I cannot help remembering how the one human female yelled out when Zeoll killed the first human. It seemed to be a cry of anguish and of anger. I do not believe the humanoids understood their crimes other then that they were commiting thievery. I believe both slavery and death is to high a punishment." his face contorts in anguish,"If this situation occured to us where we stole something for whatever reason. When we were captured we found out that what we had stolen was sacred. Would we not hope for kindness or mercy for what amounts to a misunderstanding. That woman's cry showed me it matttered to her about her companions death. Evil people wopuld not care about the deaths of their companions. I think they should all be freed, escorted from our land and told so that all of them understand that if they return they will be killed on sight. We are here to unite the taurs. To do that the first thing we must learn is compassion. We must understand that differences need not create hatred, that misunderstandings need not lead to death. The wars between the centaurs and minotaurs I'm sure were because of differences and misunderstandings. Let us begin to change these things and let the humans,elves and dwarves go free but not on our land. Give each of them a second chance at life perhaps a chance to make right their wrongs"
Kalon stands looking hopefully at the group.
Leets Wednesday June 20th, 2001 1:03:40 PM
Leets nods at Kalon's words.
"I agree with my wemic friend. Banishment from our land looks like a better punishment to my mind for the humans, elves and dwarves. We are not sure of their intentions, so killing them or making them slaves would mean that we aren't better than murderers or tyrants."
"As for the trip to the city to stop those pirates...This sounds good to me me Raorr, but don't fool yourself, I shall do it not to look better in the eyes of anybody, but because I feel like I have to do it. Except this, I will gladly fight by your side if you want to stop smugglers."
Kenisha Wednesday June 20th, 2001 8:17:50 PM
"While I do agree that a life sentence of slavery seems extensive, I feel that they knew they were doing wrong in stealing the sacred wine. Perhaps a compromise would be better? Say slave labor for five years and then banishment from the Taur Isles? Of course this is jut my opinion and it is up to the authorities to met out punishment as they feel is right." Kenisha pauses for a moment before continuing. "Perhaps we could speak for leniency on their behalf?"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday June 20th, 2001 11:54:53 PM
"Your claim sounds genuine Kalon and it is a point well taken. But before we continue to jump to conclusions about their motives and their sentencing, how about we hold a little meeting to interrogate the criminals? It may well turn out to be one of those tragic stories where they must steal to pay off an important debt. If their motives are good, then perhaps we could lend a hand. What do you all think?"
Zeoll Thursday June 21st, 2001 6:11:20 AM
"Well," Zeoll says, "I offerred them the chance to surrrenderr many times, and they chose to attack without merrcy or quarrterr. And even the blackest hearrt can carre about a loved one. So I guess I am less inclined to leniency."
"But merrcy is a quality towarrds which we should aspirre."
"I think they should be taken beforre those authorrities who can forrce them to speak within the Zone of Trruth. There is common magic that can do this. If they werre ignorrant of the severrity of theirr crrime, then I would be morre forrgiving."
So Many Choices (DM Donna) Thursday June 21st, 2001 7:50:47 AM
"Well...I have several other shipments to make before having the time--and Purple Wine--to ship to Heartkeep," Silky tells you, "So there will be nothing for you all to escort right away. My suggestion would be for you to see Hollyhocks at the Clearspring Temple and ask his counsel about seeking leniency for those smugglers."
Kale, all this while, is examining the golden oval with a critical eye. He is disappointed to see that it isn't made of real gold, but a golden-hued metal. However, as the rogue looks the token over, he sees writing on it...words that are, at first, unintelligible to his eyes. Then, magically, the writing sorts itself out into his native Minotaur language:
The bearer of this token is entitled to 2000gp credit at the Catacombs *void where prohibited **batteries not included
Kale Thursday June 21st, 2001 9:12:19 AM
not really paying that much attention to everyone else, Kale asks Silky "What is the Catacombs?"
Flat-top Thursday June 21st, 2001 11:09:41 AM
Flat-top scratches his main and replies to the Weimics, "Leniency and Mercy is not in a Fighter's Training and not why Domi chose me. I fight and protect Domi, the thinking belongs to the Weinics." Then turns to Sargasso," I'm glad that your all right and hope that you can call me a friend, too. Since it is going to be a little while before we can go back to the Heartkeep. Can you do me a favor? One of your beautiful little Faes. She said that you came through a Rainbow Gate? With Silky's permission can you show me this Gate??" Flat-top is taken by surprise at what Kale said, "Catacombs?? Hmmm! Sound like an EVIL Dungon to me??"
Leets Thursday June 21st, 2001 6:26:11 PM
"I just hate to think that my word could make another one a slave...Just think about it: we have said that they were probably not aware of the sacrilege they comitted. On the other hand, it is true that they also probably perfectly knew that they were committing thievery. Thus, I think that it would be better to punish them according to the way we would punish thieves, and not sacrileges...Moreover, if they were showing some good will and helped us to arrest those pirates we talked of, it could be a good point for them. Even more if, as Ceira said, a tragic story was behind their actions..."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday June 21st, 2001 7:09:26 PM
Looking at Zeoll,"You are quite the hypocrite aren't you so blinded by the belief that your way is the right way. Most of them couldn't even understand what we were saying. If you were suddenly attacked and somewhat you knew was struck down wouldn't you fight. Don't answer because you certainly would mere seconds passed from the beginning of the fight to the end."
Looking at Leets, Ceira and Kenisha,"At least some understand mercy and compassion so perhaps our mission can succeed. I think Kenisha's idea does have some merit"
Then looking at Flat-top,"It is thinking like that that had the centaurs and minotaurs senselessly killing each other for many,many years. Our people need defending our great god I'm sure can protect himself against any who would threaten him"
Zeoll the Hypocrite Thursday June 21st, 2001 10:21:33 PM
Zeoll says nothing to Kalon but bows low.
"What is that token?" he asks Kale.
Kenisha Thursday June 21st, 2001 10:38:29 PM
Kenisha nods, "I think we should to the Temple. then we will be in a better position to decide anything further."
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday June 21st, 2001 11:18:49 PM
"Slavery...a terrible alternative to death, only slightly better than torture in changing the ways of people. Perhaps banishment is good, but in today's Wold it is not a useful as it once was. The Wold is becoming more cilivilized and banishment no longer forces the banishee to survive like they once did"
"We should consult with this Hollyhocks as Silky mentioned, travel to the Heartkeep, resupply and equip and head to the town to check out the connection the Pirates and these smugglers have. Perhaps we can barter the infomation from the criminals in exchange for letting them get banished..."Raorr says
He looks at the Fey "Kalon seems to feel that the humanoids deserve the same treatment as you, therefore the treatment could be focused on you as well. You only drank the purple wine but you are a drunk and an alcholic, tjis time you lucked out but next time it could mean your life. Listen to your friends next time, and get help on your addiction as it will kill you or some one you care about, such as your small friends who would have died had I not been told to wait."
Raorr says proudly "The Catacombs is a magic provisons store with outlets in all the Wold, I'm surprised you haven't seen the advertisements all over, big business and they deliver!"
Raorr ponders something for a moment "KAlon, perhaps you've earned the amulet blessed from Imod, I'm sure your words and actions have brought him great joy to see such.." Raorr pauses trying to think of the right word "benevolence? (OOC I was thinking Humanity ut we're Taurs!)" Raorr continues "What ever the term is I'm sure he feels you have earned it. Accept his wisdom and forethought and wear the amulet proudly, show through this action your commitment to the Holy Trinity and his quest, your words reflect his intentions and our goal."
RAorr waits for responses and then says " I guess we should go"
Ceira Karwyn Friday June 22nd, 2001 12:30:50 AM
"I agree with Raorr about returning to Heartkeep for rest and resupply. Although this quest was not a long one, it has been quite nerve-racking. First the rumors pointed to a..." Ceira checks behind her shoulder; afraid the next word would bring trouble. "...ghosts." She pauses and waits for a reaction but nothing happens... yet.
"Anyways, then there were those creepy vines and then a flying monster tha--." she stops short and ponders the logic behind the moving vines. "Umm... who has the power to control vines? The humans wouldn't dare show their face in the daylight with so many workers running around. The sprites perhaps?" Ceira looks around the room in search of the sprites.
Still More Explanations to be Made (DM Donna) Friday June 22nd, 2001 7:19:11 AM
"The Catacombs is, indeed, the retailer of many magical items." Silky confirms Raorr's words. "And, if you don't mind hearing my opinion, I think that Puller definitely told his gang what they were doing, and those thieves invaded my vineyard time and again to get it. The investigation into the precise circumstances under which they operated will be thorough, I'm sure. Whatever justice that is meted out to all of the accused will be no less than any of them deserve."
When Ceira voices her concerns about the "ghost" that haunted the vineyard recently, a chorus of unseen giggles is heard. Sargasso looks a bit embarassed.
"Ziggy--give that translating amulet back to Mistress Silky!" the satyr orders. When the amulet suddenly reappears upon Silky's desk, Sargasso turns to the wemic sorceress and continues:
"Don't be afraid--the 'ghost' was actually my sprite friends...they would turn themselves invisible and do things like rearrange vines, stick flowers on peoples' horns, and--in one case, I hear, put a 'KICK ME' sign on somebody's back. All these things my friends did in an effort to distract the vineyard workers from looking for the purple monster--me--too closely."
Kalon the Wemic Friday June 22nd, 2001 8:55:47 AM
Looking at Silky,"Dead people cannot make amends, nor will slaves learn compassion and understanding. It will only make us seem more the monster to them. Remember blue wine is sacred to us not to all people. More wine can be made but a life any life should not be taken lightly and kindness always gains dividends if not with the person it is shown to but in the heart of the giver. To see the marks on Kale's body I see our races still have alot to learn about forgiveness and compassion"
Looking over at the tall ever menacing Raorr he is surprised to hear the compassion in his voice. Coming from one so prone to violence it is shocking,"Yes, let us interrogate the prisoners and find out what we can about their pirate contacts. If they help I think it will help towards leniency. Let us speak to Hollyhocks as well. As for the amulet I am sure that when it's purpose is needed our great god will let me know. It was given to me to do with as I please I shall await his guidance"
Then moving closer to Kenisha he leans in and whispers,"You look especially beautiful this morning Kenisha. When time allows perhaps we could go for a run together somewhere"
Kale Friday June 22nd, 2001 9:37:12 AM
"Its not really gold, Zeoll." Kale says "Its a token to the Catacombs. It says present this and we get 2000gp credit line with them." then he flips the token in his hand a couple of times and says. "I dont know about the rest of you, but ive never had so much money in my hand before." then he turns to Silky and says "The fate of your prisoners is no concern of mine. Thieves know the consequences of their actions."
Flat-top Friday June 22nd, 2001 11:52:27 AM
"Hee! Hee! Ahh Yes! 'kick me' on somebody back" snickes Flat-top. "Now THAT was funny"
Kenisha Saturday June 23rd, 2001 12:00:40 AM
Kenisha blushes at Kalon's whisperings. "I'd like that." she whispers back.
Ceira Karwyn Saturday June 23rd, 2001 10:13:59 AM
"Those sprites are quite mischevious. I can see why you are good friends." Ceira playfully winks at Sargasso.
Zeoll Sunday June 24th, 2001 10:07:00 PM
Zeoll comments, "Well, I would verry much like to rrevisit the centaurr prriest we met beforre. Was his name? Hollyhocks, orr something?"
Raorr the Minotaur Monday June 25th, 2001 5:41:12 AM
"Well then Taurs. I think were off to speak with the humanoids being held in the town."
RAorr walks out and begins to walk outside.
Goodbye and Many Thanks (DM Donna) Monday June 25th, 2001 6:14:03 AM
Silky's head tilts as she listens to Kalon's words.
"You are a monk, and such an attitude is commendable," she says in a neutral voice, "I wish you the best in trying to convince the Temple Elders of such a view." She walks out from behind her desk.
"However, in spite of my personal opinion about the intruders to my vineyard, I am still most grateful to you for saving the Sacred Blue." She goes over to the door and opens it.
"I estimate that the first shipment to Heartkeep will be ready by the time my crew is finished with lunch, so you can return to the vineyard then if you still wish to escort the wine to your stronghold." She bows low to the entire party. "May Domi keep both your blades and your wits sharp."
Kale Monday June 25th, 2001 9:40:14 AM
with a twist of his hand, Kale makes the token dissapear into his robe. Why are we wasting our time? Kale thinks to himself as he leaves with the others.
Flat-top Monday June 25th, 2001 9:42:06 AM
"Well, if you insist on going to the Temple, Raorr. I'll go with you," said Flat-top. He turns to Sargasso and ask, "You know I and some of my friends would like to have a picnic with you and your friends, near this Rainbow Gate of yours? Would you like to do that? And No! there will not be any Wine at this picnic... Just lemon aid. I'll be right back with a picnic basket and after my friends goes to the temple. C'yeah!" And off Flat-top goes.
Kalon the Wemic Monday June 25th, 2001 3:42:37 PM
Kalon blushes at Kenisha's answer it not being so obvious on his face then whispers,"I look forward to it"
Then turning to follow Raorr he stops looking back at Kenisha and waiting,"Perhaps we could talk while we are walking to the temple" then waits for Kenisha to come walk beside him.
OOC: If she walks along with him he will make small talk trying to keep most of the conversation talking abut her.
Kalon the Wemic Monday June 25th, 2001 3:43:31 PM
Kalon blushes at Kenisha's answer it not being so obvious on his face then whispers,"I look forward to it"
Then turning to follow Raorr he stops looking back at Kenisha and waiting,"Perhaps we could talk while we are walking to the temple" then waits for Kenisha to come walk beside him.
OOC: If she walks along with him he will make small talk trying to keep most of the conversation talking abut her.
Leets Monday June 25th, 2001 4:09:19 PM
"I don't think the fate of the humanoids falls within our competence anymore..."
Leets looks at Raorr leaving the room, and then smiles at Silky.
"May Domi also keep your vineyard flourishing Silky. And don't forget, if you ever need my help again, don't hesiate...You know where to find me."
"Well...I think I'll help the worker to prepare the shipment...Some work will help me to have my mind cleared..."
Raorr the Minotaur Monday June 25th, 2001 7:03:24 PM
Raorr continues leaving the area...
Kenisha Monday June 25th, 2001 9:33:48 PM
Kenisha walks besides Kalon as they follow behind Raorr. making small talk.
Ceira Karwyn Monday June 25th, 2001 11:12:43 PM
Ceira heads out the door and simply says, "Take care now!"
Zeoll Monday June 25th, 2001 11:59:51 PM
Zeoll thanks Silky and joins the rest of the group.
"Come, frriends. We have business to which we must attend."
Just to Clarify... (DM Donna) Tuesday June 26th, 2001 6:13:51 AM
This is an OOC post, really: I had thought everyone in the party was going to trek over to the Temple in order to report that their mission was accomplished and to inquire about the subject of leniency towards the smugglers. Now it seems that Leets is going to stay at the vineyard..?
Please state clearly what your specific character is doing as they go along to where they are going. I--as the DM--would prefer to have everyone go along as a group to the same spot, but (barring that) you must tell me what your PC is intending to do and where they intend to do it, then.
Leets Tuesday June 26th, 2001 8:33:33 AM
The young centaur paladin will just help preparing the first shipment offered by Silky - that should not take that long... Then he will go to the temple too...
Kale Tuesday June 26th, 2001 9:32:36 AM
i wish Imod or Domi or some god would tell these guys that we are wasting our time, Kale thinks to himself as he walks along.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday June 26th, 2001 9:37:12 AM
OOC: Kalon will be going to the temple.
As he walks away with Kenisha he calls back to Leets,"What does competence have to do with anything all that is required is mercy and compassion. Your abilities to sense evil would be of great help but if you have no mercy or compassion to spare then stay behind."
Flat-top Tuesday June 26th, 2001 3:25:17 PM
As Flat-top trots up to Kale, the Centaur tells Kale. "I know what you mean, Kale, because this is Centaur Land and the outcome is predicable. BUT if they want to try, More power to them. As for me I'd rather go on a picnic with the Sargasso and his friends. I would like to know where that Rainbow Gate is? And where it leads to? How about bout you, Kale, are you not curious ... just a little bit??"
Kenisha Tuesday June 26th, 2001 10:49:20 PM
Kenisha holds her tongue over the other's comments back and forth as they head for the temple.
Zeoll Wednesday June 27th, 2001 12:08:55 AM
Yes, Zeoll will join the group walking to the temple in order to report to Hollyhocks (the priest of domi we met earlier).
Leets Wednesday June 27th, 2001 6:44:32 AM
"I understand your anger and compassion Kalon" answers Leets as he trots by his side.
"But you also have to understand that evil and good have sometimes little in common with law and justice. Compassion is a call to one's heart, whereas justice has to be blind. I already told what I had to say about the death penalty and slavery, but the fate of the humanoids is now in the hands of priests or judges. Putting their autority into question would finally only lead to chaos."
Trip to the Temple (DM Donna) Wednesday June 27th, 2001 6:46:04 AM
Leets reports over to the bottling building, where Tailthwacker gives him an odd look before telling the young paladin that he'd be better off joining the others on their way to Clearwater Temple, since it was only just about eight o'clock in the morning now, and the shipment Silky authorized for Heartkeep isn't going to even be started to assemble until an hour or two after lunch.
Meanwhile, as the others begin walking back to the Temple, they encounter light traffic of the centaurs of Fort Stag coming and going about their business. Often the native centaurs stare, but this time around, the party notices that the stares and pointing are not with as much suspicion as before...for the most part, anyway.
"Mama, Mama!" one yearling, accompanied by his harried-looking dam, pipes up in a squeaky voice as he points directly at the party. "Look at the ugly minotaur!" The child's eyes are round as he looks at Raorr. The female centaur gives her child a horrified glance and yanks him off in the opposite direction of the party.
"Hush, child--they are Domi's chosen!" you can hear her chide the little one as they retreat.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday June 27th, 2001 7:33:17 AM
Kalon smiles at the small child,"It all begins so easily, so innocently" he thinks to himself. As he continues on and into the temple.
Kale Wednesday June 27th, 2001 9:50:05 AM
"Well," he says to Flat-Top, "Ive always heard there is a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, so maybe there's a river of gold at the end of a Rainbow Bridge. So if you want to ditch these others and go find Sargasso, im with you."
Flat-top Wednesday June 27th, 2001 11:36:19 AM
Flattop leans to Kale side and whispers to him," Not just yet, I want to see the look on their faces when they get the answer. Besides I have to get a big basket together for the picnic. The food will get them in a good mood before we ask them to show us the Gate." Flat-top snickers a little and continues following the party.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday June 27th, 2001 7:50:19 PM
Ceira looks over at Raorr to judge his reaction and to prevent any unnecessary incidents from occurring
(OOC: Ceira will be keeping her eye on Raorr. If he charges after them, Ceira will accidentally step in front of him and collide. ^_^ Hee hee...)
Zeoll Wednesday June 27th, 2001 9:56:23 PM
Zeoll offers a silent mental prayer to Tomi.
"Great Lord of Courage, grant us the grace to hold together without ripping each others' throats out!"
Kenisha Wednesday June 27th, 2001 10:48:10 PM
Kenisha looks behind the party then in a loud voice says, "Where? I don't see any UGLY minotaurs anywhere. Just good looking ones." She grins at Raorr and Kale and winks. "It will take time for the old prejudices to die away."
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday June 28th, 2001 12:46:28 AM
Raorr snarls at the child but does not advance towards it.
He continues mumbling soemthing about stuffed centaurs and wheter there is a specific law against that.
He recalls Leets comment about chaos and questioning one lawmakers. "Leets, perhaps you are looking at the whole situation of chaos wrong. Chaos in itself should not be dangerous, it's only danger is being unpredictible, and occaisinally random. It shuns strict structure. A Court sytem that is completely strict to the law would accomplish nothing since Laws are constantly being changed becasue of oversights. When the is no law jsutice is dealt with naturally, the strong rule and the weak conform. Pack law states the ruler rules until unfit. Animals have existed for a long time without laws, with one exception; the law of nature."
"With magic being created that one law no longer is as powerful, and therefore true law is no longer possible. Magic is chaos, and our lives are full of magic, so we are no longer able to see the true law any longer. We must shuns magic and return to simple ways for law to truly return, until then why should law be cherished, since it is a false idea until magic is forgotten."
(OOC... I have no idea where i am going with this so I'm gonna stop.. RAorr would continue but I'm tired.)
Arrival at the Temple (DM Donna) Thursday June 28th, 2001 6:12:54 AM
The party proceeds to the Clearwater Temple of Domi, getting that mixed reaction from the native centaurs, though--as stated before--the majority of the reactions are favorable.
The temple guards recognize the party and immediately usher you into a meeting room where you see Hollyhocks.
"I am Hollyhocks," he introduces himself primarily for the benefit of Raorr, whom he hadn't met before, "I am the assistant to the Temple Matriarch Winnowill. I've been informed of your group's success not only in solving the mystery of the monster in the vineyard, but of capturing a band of smugglers who'd been raiding the stores of Sacred Blue! May I offer you my sincerest gratitude on behalf of the entire Temple?" The burly centaur bows low and with a lot of respect.
"Now..." Hollyhocks says as he straightens up, "...is there something I can do for you all..?"
Kalon the Wemic Thursday June 28th, 2001 10:22:08 AM
Kalon taking that as his cue to speak steps forward eyes slighly downcast as if looking at nothing in particular. Nervousness obvious in his stance and initially in his voice he begins to say his peace.
"Great servent of our god I another follower humbly beseech you to show mercy and leniency upon the smugglers now in our custody." taking a deep breath before he continues he with some effort forces himself forward.
"I do not hold much hope that my words will bring them leniency Though it is a difficult task I set for myself, a near impossible one in fact for I fear my words will fall upon deaf ears and closed hearts such as I have met in some of my worthy companions." he takes another breath then continues in an even tone filled with respect.
"I find that I perhaps stand alone in what I ask for, but if I must stand alone I will. For what would have happened if when our great lord made his desires clear to us about uniting the taurs if we had said it was an impossible task and we could not accomplish it." another breath
"These outlanders have commited a most greivous crime in our eyes the stealing of the sacred wine. I have no doubt that they have done just that...that they are guilty of the crime. However I ask leniency because the wine is sacred to us not to them. Their punishment would be death at worst or lifetime slavery at best. Yet our laws were made for our people not for theirs and hence why should we enforce our laws. Just because we have made the law doesn't mean the law is correct." he lowers his eyes,"No disrespect intended Hollyhocks" with another deep breath he continues,"If in their land they decided upon a law that all centaurs are to be killed on sight. A law that came about because of villainy commited by ignoble centaurs like the one we captured or perhaps because they heard of our harsh treatment of their people. This would not make the law right from our point of view just as our law may not make sense to them." raising his eyes slightly he paws nervously at the floor.
"Our great lord has assembled a fine group of devoted warriors. Brave, true, loyal all of them though these things appear in each in different ways. We were brought together with the mission of uniting all taurs in brotherhood. This can never be brought about by strength of arm no matter how righteous or brave. What is needed is the strengths of compassion, mercy, foresight, patience and above all understanding that our ways are not all the same. That we do not all see things the same way or believe in things the same way. This group must learn these things first and formost so they achieve their divinely guided mission." his nervousness almost palpable but his voice now filled with passion he plunges forward,"I do not know these people who stole from us perhaps they were forced into the circumstances by any number of factors. Perhaps they chose this of their own heart. Perhaps they stole just as you or I might to feed their child who was starving. Perhaps they are not the monsters that we think them to be. Or worse perhaps we ARE the monsters they may think we are. So unlike them with so many strange ways about us." passion still in his voice a tear in his eye he continues,"If they pay the full weight of their crimes they will NEVER be able to redeem themselves and we may well be adding further to the reasons they did what they did. Grant them leniency, through actions show that what is needed in this world is more forgiveness, more understanding." dropping to one knee,"I suggest that we escort them from our lands and tell them that if they return onto our lands they will be killed immediately. Others have suggested a period of enforced servitude or reparations made. If that is the case I suggest they be kept well and paid for their duties but be told that if they attempt to escape they will be killed. I know these people not at all, but, if they are punished fully I will be heavy of heart to know that perhaps among them all one might find the path to goodness if only WE had found the goodness in our hearts to understand, to show compassion,and most of all give them a second chance" with a huge gulp of air he wipes the tear away,"I await and will accept your decision without protest and will I not discuss it again" bowing his head he steps back.
Flat-top Thursday June 28th, 2001 1:37:17 PM
Flat-top steps forward,"Do that it in consideration and do what you must." Flat-top steps back and whispers. "Your turn to grunt, Kale."
Ceira Karwyn Thursday June 28th, 2001 4:13:46 PM
Ceira smiles and walks up behind Kalon. She pats him in the back to reassure him that he is not alone in his views.
Kenisha Thursday June 28th, 2001 8:15:34 PM
Kenisha stands on the other side of Kalon. "I too feel that leniency should be considered for these foreign transgressors."
Raorr the Minotaur Friday June 29th, 2001 12:20:18 AM
Raorr leans up aginst a post as Kalon makes is statement, and smiles. He remains silent though.
Zeoll Friday June 29th, 2001 1:17:27 AM
Zeoll adds a few words in Tauric. "As we have worrked togetherr, so should we stand togetherr now. Leniency seems a worrthy goal herre. Perrhaps this episode can serrve as an example to all humans and demi-humans that we Taurrs arre united in positive purrpose."
Leets Friday June 29th, 2001 4:31:32 AM
The young paladin has been hearing silently the others words, and finally makes one step forward, looking at his fellows and then at Hollyhocks.
"I would really like to plead for leniency too. I'm not for the slavery nor death penalty solution, although I think those deserve a punishment. Banishment looked good to me. Now, if one of you prefers to let them go as they came, to make an example about our race behaviour, you have to think of what we'll do next time such a case will occur, because you cannot be lenient everytime, and I don't think it would be fait to punish one and not the other for the same offence."
Whoa, Nelly! (DM Donna) Friday June 29th, 2001 7:20:59 AM
Hollyhocks stands there blinking for a moment. You get the impression that only his years of training in the skill of diplomacy keep his jaw from hitting the floor in surprise.
"My most honored children," he says finally, "I must say that this is a most unexpected surprise to hear such a view...but then, only a little more than a week ago, would I have stated with the utmost sincerity that never would a centaur ally with a minotaur, nor seek the aid of a wemic." The druid pauses, searching for words, then nods to you as he apparently finds them.
"I think perhaps you do not fully know the way we centaurs execute our brand of justice, eh?" Hollyhocks asks rhetorically. "Let me explain, then...
"First, when a crime has been discovered, the circumstances of the crime are investigated by our constabulary. In the case of these...accused smugglers, they were literally caught in the act. This makes the investigation much easier, because the constabulary has a number of specialty spellcasters and other such personnel that use magic and other sciences to confirm the circumstances and execution of the crime in question.
"All of the evidence that is so discovered is documented for presentation by the official Accusor at the trial. But this isn't the end of such investigation--no, we also investigate those accused of the crime. The Defendor Department of the constabulary investigates the accused criminals to see what extenuating circumstances exist for the defendants. Defendors also have a staff of spellcasters and specialists to uncover such facts. They, too, document their findings and present them at trial.
"The trial itself is held before one of the Tower Judges...they are former members of the constabulary who volunteer to live in the Tower of Justice until such time as their impartial presence is required at a trial. They know nothing of what has happened except for the confirmed and documented evidence about the crime and the extenuating circumstances that is presented at trial. If they have any questions about either the evidence or the defense, they ask them of the Accusor or the Defendor. Once the Judge has all the information from both sides--and all his or her questions are answered, they ponder the case and eventually announce the verdict.
"The verdict is duly recorded. Should it be a guilty verdict, then the Judge will issue an immediate Edict of Justice, which is automatically carried out. The Edict of Justice is almost always explained so that a record of the Judge's logic can be kept and used for future Defendor presentations in similar cases."
Hollyhocks breathes in deeply.
"The Defendor's investigation is definitely still ongoing, and the Accusor's investigation, as far as I know, is all but finished at this moment." the temple assistant says. "The Temple has recommended that Puller--who is native to Fort Stagg and knows full well the blasphemy he committed--be executed for breaking the law not just once, but repeatedly. The Temple has asked that the humanoids that Puller recruited to help him in his blasphemy be assigned to the Temple as slave labor for a period that will cover the value of the Sacred Blue Wine that they took. After this, the humanoids will be escorted from Centaur Island, banished for the rest of their lives."
Kale Friday June 29th, 2001 8:53:59 AM
not really interested in what is going on, Kale pulls out the token again and begins flipping it in the air. "Like I said earlier, Flat-Top, I dont really care what happens to them." he whispers to Flat-Top.
Kalon the Wemic Friday June 29th, 2001 9:20:33 AM
A look of relief on his face Kalon says,"I am happy to hear that. The impression I got was that they would be facing automatic death. It is most kind and compassionate as well as understanding." he pauses as if trying to remember something,"Oh yes that is it. Raorr hasd suggested that perhaps if we spoke to the outlander prisoners that we might find out enough information to perhaps pursue the pirates they are connected to. Do think that a good course of action."
Then looking at Ceira, Kenisha, Zeoll and Leets he simply says,"Thank you my brothers and sisters we have done a good thing here this day."
Then reaching into his backpack he carefully unwraps the the amulet given to him and puts it around his neck.
Flat-top Friday June 29th, 2001 11:15:13 AM
"Yes, I know. They'll get a fair trial and they'll get a fair judgment. Now my friend will you help me put together a big picnic basket? So we can be friends WITH Sargasso, so we can find this gate of theirs?" Flat-top nudges Kale in the side, "What do you say, big guy huh?"
Zeoll Saturday June 30th, 2001 12:01:42 AM
Addressing Hollyhocks, Zeoll asks, "Will the authorrities rrequirre ourr aid orr testimony? Orr arre we frree to rreturrn to Hearrthold Keep?"
"And is therre any otherr serrvice we can rrenderr you in Domi's sight?"
Ceira Karwyn Saturday June 30th, 2001 11:44:27 AM
"Yes Kalon, the gods are smiling in our favor today." comments Ceira.
Leets Sunday July 1st, 2001 3:05:00 PM
"May it be every day like this my friend..."
Leets nods at Kalon's words, and bows respectfully before Hollyhocks.
"Perhaps could we leave now sir, unless you still need us?"
Temple Business Finished (DM Donna) Monday July 2nd, 2001 6:20:59 AM
"No..." Hollyhocks shakes his head, "...No...there is nothing more the Temple requires of you, chosen of Domi. Know that, if ever you require the assistance of the Temple for any matter, great or small, you have but to notify any priest of the God of War, and we shall hear of your need and respond to it." The druid turns to Zeoll.
"I should have thought the constabulary would already have interviewed you, but--since you all intend to try to see the prisoners anyway--I'll assign you a guide to show you the way to the constabulary headquarters..." With this, Hollyhocks gives a whistle. For a moment, nothing appears to happen, then--from the depths of a large, leafy plant in the corner, the little furry face of a raccoon peers out.
"Go fetch Xith!" Hollyhocks orders the animal. The raccoon yawns. "Bring Xith here! Go to it!" The raccoon scratches itself. "Scooter--go get Xith!" The druid rolls his eyes as the mammal finally climbs out of the plant and up the wall, disappearing into what appears to be a little hollow up in one corner of the room with a sound that reminds you of a raspberry.
"SOME animal friends aren't quite as cooperative as others..." he explains with a sort of long-suffering tone. A moment or so later, a young centaur enters the room. He has a tan hide with dark brown mane and tail, green eyes and cannot be more than perhaps thirteen years of age.
"Xith--please show these Chosen of Domi to the Constabulary Headquarters." Hollyhocks says. "Remain with them until they let you know you are no longer needed, and then return here to the Temple."
"Aye, master." the young centaur bobs his head at Hollyhocks, then turns to the party. "This way, honored ones, if you are ready to leave..?"
Flat-top Monday July 2nd, 2001 9:07:50 AM
Flat-top watches little Scooter and the small sounds he made, disappear into the tree. When the young centaur enters, Flat-top wonders "Was I ever that young?". When little Xith was ready to go, Flat-top followed.
Kalon the Wemic Monday July 2nd, 2001 6:46:21 PM
Kalon looks in general at the group and says,"Well have we decided what our course of action is from here? What we are going to do? Perhaps it has been decided and I have not heard but have we decided on a leader for this group or are we even going to have one. If we haven't I suggest that perhaps to show our attempt to work together we should have one representative who is our overall leader. One who is second in command and one who is battle leader. Each position being held by one of the respective races."
He then stands and waits.
Ceira Karwyn Monday July 2nd, 2001 8:46:03 PM
Ceira turns to Xith and says, "If you don't mind, could you give us a few minutes to figure this out?"
"We discussed this earlier but came to no conclusion. Well, for certain, I am in no position to do any leading. However based on the recent turn of events, I have a few suggestions. Leets would be a good leader, Thiel would be a good second-in-command, and finally Zeoll would make a fine battle leader. What say you all?"
Kenisha Monday July 2nd, 2001 10:18:43 PM
"I believe we need to talk to the constabulary first, Kalon. Then perhaps we should retire to Hearthold to discuss and decide on leadership." Kenisha suggests.
Raorr the Minotaur Monday July 2nd, 2001 11:19:24 PM
Raorr still quietly observes his fellow party memebrs, pateintly waiting.
Zeoll Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 12:26:43 AM
"I am honorred to be mentioned. But I agrree with Kenisha. Let us finish herre and decide on leaderrs back home. Now let us follow this fine young centaurr."
Another Day Trip (DM Donna) Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 6:34:01 AM
The young acolyte waits patiently until all are agreed that going to the Constabulary is the best course of action at the moment. Once everyone is ready, Xith bows once more to Hollyhocks, then canters easily out of the chamber and shows the party the way to the Constabulary Headquarters.
As the party advances through the heart of Fort Stag, the local centaurs definitely take note of your presence. Once more, the majority of the reactions are awe, tinged with respect. Sometimes you pass openly-gaping citizens, and you still encounter the occasional scowl of disapproval from the die-hard geno-centric centaurs. Xith is unfazed by most of the reactions, good or bad, but respectfully acknowledges greetings from all who salute him.
"Ahhhh, here we are, Chosen of Domi," the colt announces as you enter a well-tended clearing, "This is the Constabulary Headquarters..." He waves a hand at a stately whishtal tree, then indicates the even taller, older specimen a few hundred yards beyond it, "...right next to the Tower of Justice, where the Tower Judges reside." Xith leads you to the large open doorway that brings you into the voluminous space that is the initial processing area of the Constabulary.
There are dozens of centaurs located at dozens of writing stations throughout this level of the building. A portion of them sport the silver sashes that all the active members of the constabulary wear. The sashes make them instantly recognizable to all centaurs as constables with the authority of the law behind them.
"I think this constable over here is just about finished..." Xith says, waving you over to where a white-and-brown patched filly is scribbling at the bottom of her paperwork as she speaks to an older centaur male (who looks like he's recovering from a little too much Purple Wine.)
"...choice of paying the fine or bringing your case before a Tower Judge, sir." she says as you approach.
"But I still don't see why there's any charge, ma'am..." the bewildered centaur replies, "...all I did was relieve myself on one of the public posts--that IS why they're there..!"
"No, sir, you THOUGHT you were using a public post," the female constable explains evenly, "You were, in fact, too drunk to notice that the object of your relief was NOT a post, but Stallion Canterbury's leg!"
"Oh...ummm...I'll pay the fine." the embarrassed centaur opts.
"Go see Constable Rikko over there." the female tells him, pointing out another centaur in the large chamber. The older male leaves, and the constable looks at the party, her slightly-tired demeanor perking up a bit when she sees that you are obviously not the usual type of people who are brought in to Initial Processing.
"Good morning, I am Constable Dunwitty," she introduces herself, "May I help you..?"
Kale Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 7:38:31 AM
"I think ill wait outside." Kale says to the others. "Being around prisons makes me nervous."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 9:51:15 AM
Looking at Kale he suggests,"Why don't you and Flat-top go get the things ready for this picnic you keep talking about. Surely all of us are not needed to ask the prisoners questions."
Flat-top Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 10:59:02 AM
"That is a very good idea, Kalon." said Flat-top. Turns to Xith and ask him, "Would you help me and Kale put together a big picnic basket? We would like to take some new Friends on a nice picnic." Then turns and follow Kale out of this place.
Leets Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 2:59:47 PM
The young paladin thinks of Ceira's words as the little group is walking to the Constabulary.
"I'm honored by your choice Ceira, and it makes me feel better to know that perhaps I am on the way of wisdom. However, I sometimes think that we all had very different lives, and I wonder if I'm not too much inexperienced in some domains. If our friends think we need a leader and also think I could be this one, I will gladly share my little wisdom with you all, but only if all of you agree..."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 8:00:44 PM
"Well, uhh... umm..." Ceira stammers in response to Constable Dunwitty. She leans over to the group and asks, "Do you suppose it would be more convincing if a fellow centaur spoke? I don't know if my words would hold enough weight."
Kenisha Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 8:38:53 PM
Kenisha smiles at Ceira. "No reason why your words are not as good as ours, friend."
Turning to the Constable she says, "We are the Chosen of Domi, and we wish to speak to the thieves brought here from the vineyards last night."
Zeoll Tuesday July 3rd, 2001 11:33:18 PM
Zeoll steps up and speaks. "We werre involved in the events tonite at the vinyarrd. We helped apprrehend the thieves of the sacrred wine. Beforre we leave the island, we wish to make ourrselves available to the authorrities. It may be that someone would like to rrecorrd ourr accounts."
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday July 4th, 2001 12:19:27 AM
Still remaining queit as a shadow, Raorr watches Kale and Flat-top talk to Xith. Another excuse to wander off again, Kale must not like being seen, neither would I if I was shaven bald like him. So many scars, so little hair. Perhaps I'll ask him someday about the true events that surrounded them. It may explain something I haven't understood about him.
Hearing the 'potential' canidates patting themselves on the back, Raorr thinks, about how inappropriate a choice Zeoll would make as Battle Commander, Raorr thinks to himself that a warrior should fill that role.
Kalon the Wemic Thursday July 5th, 2001 12:46:20 AM
Kalon feels uncomfortable at the mention of Zeoll as battle leader yet smiles inwardly at the other choices. He waits content to let Raorr question the prisoners as it was his idea to ask them about the pirates.
Constabulary Procedure (DM Donna) Thursday July 5th, 2001 6:48:51 AM
The phrase "Chosen of Domi" immediately gets Dunwitty's attention--and the attention of everyone else in earshot as well. When Zeoll explains about the thieves caught at the Surefoot Vineyards, the constable's face visibly brightens.
"Ahhhh, yes--that's Hoames' case!" she says, then beckons the party to follow her. "Please--everyone who was present at that crime scene when it occured--follow me. The constable in charge of the Accusor investigation will want to speak to you." Dunwitty glances at Kale. "Even you--if you were there. No clue is to be left unrecorded." With this the equine law officer leads the party through the processing area and up a level or two to where there are other office-like spaces. She finally knocks on a door and opens it, ushering the party into a room that is just about large enough to fit all of you in it.
"Constable Hoames, these are the Chosen of Domi--witnesses in the Surefoot Vineyard break-in." Dunwitty says. The male centaur that is in the room looks up from a sheaf of papers he is examining and looks you all over with sharp brown eyes that seem to miss no detail. His stature is rather spare for a typical centaur, but his light brown coat is bright and something about his presence just immediately captures your attention.
"Thank you, Dunwitty." the new constable nods to the female, who departs. He holds out a hand and introduces himself:
"I'm Hoames--Fetlock Hoames, constabulary investigator...this time I'm assigned to the Accusor. You have come here directly from the Temple of Domi, led by a young acolyte of the order after being the guests of Silkshanks Surefoot at her residence on the grounds of the vineyard, where you came into contact with a satyr and at least two different types of sprites...after having consumed some Sacred Blue Wine."
Kale Thursday July 5th, 2001 8:41:20 AM
"Well, I guess im going it after all." Kale says more to himself that to anyone else. "I dont like picnicks that much anyway."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday July 5th, 2001 9:51:16 AM
Glancing over at Kale as they are introduced to the investigator,"You don't seem to like much of anything life must be very sad for you"
Flat-top Thursday July 5th, 2001 10:36:29 AM
Flat-top "Ahh come on, Kale, this going to be a sap. The picnic will lead to the gate and who Knows What?'.
Kenisha Thursday July 5th, 2001 8:51:22 PM
Kenisha just smiles at Hoames and sits if there is an appropriate place.
Zeoll Friday July 6th, 2001 12:32:32 AM
The wemic responds to the investigator. "Yes, you arre corrrect. We have come to answerr any questions you might have beforre we rreturrn to hearrthold Keep."
Filling out the Paperwork (DM Donna) Friday July 6th, 2001 6:53:36 AM
Hoames nods his head sagaciously as each party member speaks.
"Let us get on with making an affadavit of your version of events." the constable says, looking around on his rather unorganized desk. "Hmmm...where ARE those forms..? Clopson? Oh, Clopson...come here, I need you!" You all hear the clop-clop of approaching hoofbeats and a gray dappled male centaur appears in the doorway.
"I say, Hoames, did you call?" the mustachioed, somewhat portly constable asks.
"Yes, Clopson--there's paperwork to be filled out and I haven't the materials handy." Hoames replies. Clopson moves over to a nearby filing cabinet.
"I'll take the dictation, Hoames--you're a horrible speller, for all that you are brilliant in deduction." Clopson produces a pad and a stylus-like instrument and then starts scribbling.
"Thank you, Clopson," Hoames says, "Whatever would I do without you?" Turning his attention to you, the constable becomes quite business-like. "Now...I must urge you to tell me all the facts of this case as you recall them, starting from when and how you became involved, though to the events of last evening..."
The constables both look at you expectantly, waiting for your statements.
Kale Friday July 6th, 2001 9:54:47 AM
looks over at Kalon, shruggs, and says "I like gold, and gems, and the things they can buy."
Flat-top Friday July 6th, 2001 12:18:24 PM
"I'm Flat-top a Military Centaur until I was chosen by Domi (Flat-top bows his head) I was fighting the smugglers and after they surrendered there was a burst in the Wine Factory wall and out come this One horn One eyed Purple Monster and went strait to the smugglers, which was holding some captive. The purple monster burrp on the smugerlers and the smugerlers went out like a light. And that's what happen. Didn't it Kale?" said Flat-top.
Ceira Karwyn Friday July 6th, 2001 1:58:12 PM
"The one-horn, one-eyed, purple monster is a physical side-effect of Sargasso consuming some purple wine when he shouldn't have. The monster emerged from the cellar of the warehouse building. Sargasso is also a satyr and his friends are sprites. Why they were in the cellar in the first place is unknown to me." comments Ceira.
Zeoll Saturday July 7th, 2001 12:31:45 AM
The wemic recites the tale of the adventure as completely and honestly as possible. He includes mention of the criminal he killed. He holds nothing back and answers all questions gladly.
Highlights:
Invited by Hollyhocks Investigated vinyard. Tricks played. Ambush set. Combat and capture. Everything revealed.
Kenisha Saturday July 7th, 2001 11:35:06 AM
Kenisha follows after Zeoll's recital, telling about pretty much the same events just from her perspective.
Kalon the Wemic Sunday July 8th, 2001 11:43:18 AM
Looking at Kale he says,"Those things will never heal the wounds you have inside." Then when it comes his turn he recites his view of the events
Leets Sunday July 8th, 2001 5:30:50 PM
"I'm Leets, Sir, from the Talric tribe. I try to serve Domi as well as I can as a Paladin."
"All I can do is confirm my fellows' words. We were fighting smugglers when the drunk, metamorphosed Sargasso, arrived and...well...burped on the smugglers as my friend Flat-Top said. It is also true that it probably helped us because the vilains were keeping some hostages, and the less we can say is that Sargasso arrival really impressed the criminals and favoured the negotiations."
Filling Out Paperwork--oh, joy! (DM Donna) Monday July 9th, 2001 6:17:45 AM
Hoames, all during the various party members recitations, says nothing, but you all get the feeling that he is actually being extremely attentive to each story. When you're done explaining, the constable turns to his assistant.
"Well, Clopson, what do you think?" he asks. The mustachioed junior constable harrumphs.
"A satyr turning into a...a purple monster? Utter balderdash, if you ask me!" Clopson says dismissively. Hoames smirks.
"Ahhh, my friend, but there HAVE been cases of certain creatures being abnormally effected by minor magics of the Wold." the constable says. "Just two months ago, there was a report circulated by the Guild of Woldian Forensic Sages about that very phenomenon! I do not doubt that Sargasso suffers from this defect...poor satyr. He can never safely enjoy the likes of Purple Wine withot suffering its unusual aftereffects."
"Astounding, Hoames!"
"Quite!" Hoames agrees with his suitably astonished companion, then turns to the party. "Now--I sense that coming to report your version of events is not the only thing on your minds, is it? What else would you ask of the Fort Stag Constabulary..?"
Tericus Monday July 9th, 2001 6:56:27 AM
"Yup." Kale says to Flat-Top
Flat-top Monday July 9th, 2001 11:51:52 AM
"HUH?"said Flat-top, "All Kale and me want to do is go on a picnic, with Sargas"so and his friends. Can we go now?" Then turns to Kale," What do you mean YEP?"
Kalon the Wemic Monday July 9th, 2001 7:47:23 PM
Kalon steps towards Hoames and says,"Raorr" he gestures in the direction of the large minotaur,"Thought that perhaps we might be able to help deal with the pirates that are working with these smugglers and thought if that were the case that questioning them might be a way to find out some information."
Kenisha Tuesday July 10th, 2001 12:19:11 AM
Kenisha nods her head in agreement with Kalon's words.
Zeoll Tuesday July 10th, 2001 12:30:31 AM
"Yes, please considerr us to be at yourr serrvice," Zeoll adds. "It may be that these crriminals arre just the tip of the iceberrg. Maybe we can help."
Plea for Leniency
Requests & Reactions (DM Donna) Tuesday July 10th, 2001 6:21:49 AM
"Oh..???" Hoames says, his eyebrows elevating. "Hmmmm...speak to the prisoners..? This is an unusual request. Hmmmm..." The constable thinks about it for a moment and then turns to his colleague.
"Clopson, check on the location and the status of the prisoners and come back here to let us know if they are...'in the mood'--so to speak--to be questioned by these Chosen of Domi." Hoames instructs the other constable, who nods acknowledgement and trots off to do as he's told.
"Clopson will be back shortly." Hoames tells you. "It will be interesting to see if you can get these smugglers to reveal anything without using magic, for only Accusor interviewers are allowed arcane aid in interrogation, and even then, only when there are immune Defendors present. Still...I do hope that you can glean something from them."
Kale Tuesday July 10th, 2001 9:43:55 AM
"I was agreeing with what you said." Kale says to Flat-Top. then he whispers to him "How much do you want to bet they cant get any info out of them?"
Flat-top Tuesday July 10th, 2001 10:27:46 AM
"Nah! No Bet! The odds are all on yor side. That Centaur that Raorr was holding on to, look like a pro to me. But it will be intresting to see how far we gt with them?"said Flat-top. Then added "The after all the clip clop. We can go on that picnic."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday July 10th, 2001 11:22:19 AM
"Um, excuse me." Ceira says to Hoames. "What do you mean ONLY Accuser interviews are allowed arcane aid for interrogation. Is there a law I am not aware of? I'm just checking so I won't make any mistakes of my own."
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday July 10th, 2001 7:05:41 PM
RAorr finally speaks up "MAgic is not needed for information gathering, The Great one will give us everything we need to complete his mission, if he choses. If He choses us not to deal with the Pirates or continue with this investigation then The centaur will not aid us, he maybe a pro but if the GReat one wills it no pro can withstand His might or compuction no matter who they are. His blood runs in all our veins and the Centaur will aid us if it is our goal." The laws allow only accusor aracne aid, however Hoames you did not mention divine right or intervention in your statement, If we as the chosen of Domi request the right to use whatever means neccessary to aquire the information in the name of Domi, who other than Domi would say nay. Those who say nay turn their back on Domi, and since the Courts are religious in nature they turn their back on their God. We request this opportunity to speak them, wether they feel up to it or not. I have important issues to finish up with soon, and every moment we spend waiting is another moment spent not dpoing Domi's will!"
Kenisha Tuesday July 10th, 2001 10:12:36 PM
Kenisha chooses not to speak at this time, but waits for Hoames' answer.
Zeoll Tuesday July 10th, 2001 10:25:03 PM
Zeoll pauses to gather his thoughts, after hearing Raorr's declaration. Then he speaks.
"Yes," the wemic adds, "we can hope that Domi will inspirre these crriminals to atone in parrt for theirr misdeeds by rrevealing inforrmation that will help prrevent futurre crrime. Perrhaps we can prrovide an opporrtunity forr a change of hearrt."
Secretly, Zeoll fears that his diplomacy and persuasiveness will not be enough, but he is very careful to show none of his doubts to the others.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday July 11th, 2001 1:04:27 AM
Kalon listens to Raorr's statement and nods his head in agreement with Raorr,"I am sure we will be able to convince them it is in their best interest to talk." then looking at Kale and Flat-top he says,"If you don't believe we can do any good then why do you keep hanging around go get your picnic ready"
Philosophical Debate (DM Donna) Wednesday July 11th, 2001 6:39:14 AM
Once more, the constable waiting for Clopson's return nods after digesting the words of the various party members.
"Quite interesting points, all." Hoames says. "I will clarify about the procedure, though, for you are not trained constables and do not know all of how we do things here.
"Accusors investigate a crime by using scientific and arcane methods that are supervised carefully by Defendor witnesses...we want to assure that Domi's justice is done, and such a system is our best-known way to do this. As such, Accusors--when they get to the interrogation phase of the investigation--are the only people allowed to use direct-effect magic on the suspects...and, as I have stated, when they do, they must do so only in the presence of Defendor witnessess who are themselves immune to the effects of whatever spell may be used. Usually the spell used is one that forces the suspects to tell the truth; Defendors observe its implementation and are immune from the spell effects. Then the Accusors question the suspects while the spell still effects them. The results are very carefully documented and notarized by the Accusors and the Defendors. Then the Defendors are free to utilize the effects of such a spell themselves...or to otherwise cast other such direct-effect spells, but also with that same onus: immune Accusor witnesses must be present to see the results and to document them." The constable looks pointed at all of you.
"These procedures, however, are reserved for the constabulary alone. Any other third parties that may become involved in a case are forbidden to cast any spells whatsoever upon the suspects...this is for the protection of the accused." Hoames thinks for a moment, then adds: "In fact, this is the first time that I can recall anyone other than constables wishing to speak with accused thieves of Sacred Blue. Most unusual. However, your logic, friend minotaur--" here he nods to Raorr, "--is sound to my ears...if it is Domi's will that you are to pursue the point of origin for this band of smugglers, I'm sure that they will speak to you of it."
Flat-top Wednesday July 11th, 2001 9:38:37 AM
"Ohhhh! This is getting more and more interesting by the minute," said Flat-top to Kale. "I'll put off going on a picnic for the rest of the hour. Who about you Kale?"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday July 11th, 2001 2:40:45 PM
"Looks like we will have to rely on our wits with words..." says Ceira. She starts running her claws through her mane in a sort of combing gesture. "...or our charm." she winks at Hoames.
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday July 11th, 2001 6:18:57 PM
"You have not mentioned the restriction of more mundane methods..." Raorr's voice falls off. Then sarcastically says "I'll assume torture is out too. I guess I'll just crack skulls and break bones instead."
Raorr thinks for a moment then says"Perhaps the use of herbs or other edibles from nature could compel them to aid us. I'm sure Zeoll could find something to use."
Kenisha Wednesday July 11th, 2001 10:12:10 PM
Kenisha winces before speaking. "I believe that the use of physical force or mind-altering herbs are also forbidden. Correct, Hoames?"
Kalon the Wemic Thursday July 12th, 2001 12:20:07 AM
Kalon smiles toward Kenisha,"You are probably correct about that however if we speak to them individually and if Raorr were to have some blood on his fists and face. Perhaps we could bluff them into thinking that such an unpleasent fate awaits them. I would volunteer to shed some blood for the greatness of our god if it would help us find out the information"he pauses looking at the big minotaur,"Perhaps if they were put in a room adjacent to one where they could hear certain sounds of violence that might help us as well. They don't need to know that we are not like that. That their imagination run wild"
Egads--violence..? (DM Donna) Thursday July 12th, 2001 6:08:59 AM
"Indeed, Mistress Kenisha," Hoames replies, "Suspects are not to be cast upon, nor touched in any way, shape or form by anyone other than investigating constabulary, and even then only when both Accusors and Defendors are present. The truth must be revealed by completely legitimate means. The only thing your group would be allowed to do is to speak with these suspects." The constable thinks for a moment.
"However, this does not require your party to speak truthfully to them, nor is the use of...ummmm...'theatrical effects', shall we say?...precluded from your conversation with them." Hoames explains carefully. "If any of your group should happen to falsely give the impression that these suspects may come to physical harm, well, it will be up to the suspects to disbelieve you or not. None of the constabulary can force non-suspects to conform to the 'truth in all dealings' rule that Accusors and Defendors are both bound by." Once more the centaur law officer nods with wry approval.
"It will be interesting to see how such an interrogation by non-constables will fare." he says.
Kale Thursday July 12th, 2001 7:21:53 AM
"How could Kalon hear us whisper?" Kale asks Flat-Top "He's a sneaky one, we'll have to watch him." then he whispers again to Flat-Top so that ONLY he can hear "These guys think that Domi is some kind hearted god, when in reality all he cares about is battles and victory. The smugglers lost, so they pay the penalty for losing. We understand that, maybe one day the rest will." then he says in a louder voice "No, no picnick right now, but im not staying here. Ill wait outside." and then he walks out
Zeoll Thursday July 12th, 2001 8:03:33 AM
Zeoll bides his time. listening to the ideas for trickery and threats. "If these methods worrk, that would be fine," he adds. "And if they do not, perrhaps at the end I could have a few worrds with each smugglerr in turrn ..."
[Zeoll's skill lies in Diplomacy, not Intimidation! :-) Not that there's anything wrong with Intimidation!]
Flat-top Thursday July 12th, 2001 10:17:06 AM
"Your right, Kale. The great Domi is the God of War and the ones who loses, pays the price." Said Flat-top, then whispers so that only Kale can hear," I think I'll stay a little while, just to see if there is some information we do not know about. Then I'll meet you out side." Flat-top crosses his arm on his chest and watches Kale leave. Then will listen to the party.
Kalon the Wemic Thursday July 12th, 2001 11:02:50 AM
Kalon waits to see what happens next.
OOC: Sorry my impression of the way Flat-top was speaking was that he was speaking aloud. If they were supposed to be whispering I didn't catch that.
Ceira Karwyn Thursday July 12th, 2001 11:32:57 AM
Ceira also stands to the side and waits for their chance to speak with the prisoners.
Kenisha Friday July 13th, 2001 1:57:44 AM
Kenisha utters a small moue. "Please lets not fall into the old stereotypes here. Okay guys? Let's not play good centaur/bad minotaur. I've never liked tht game. Never. How about the reverse? It might even throw the prisoners off balanced even more if we have a "simpathetic" Roarr holding back an "enraged" centaur."
Kenisha grins at the mental image.
Clopson Returns (DM Donna) Friday July 13th, 2001 7:21:51 AM
As the party discusses possible strategies in dealing with the prisoners, the portly Clopson trots back into Hoames' office.
"The suspects will be assembled in Interrogation Chamber 3, Hoames," the junior constable says, "The GC says that you and LaStride are to be present to make sure the 'no forces' rule is followed."
"Thank you, Clopson." Hoames says, nodding, then turns to you. "The 'GC' is the Grand Constable...he is in charge of the entire constabulary. Now...have you worked out your questioning strategies sufficiently? Once you have, Clopson and I will take you to IC3..."
Flat-top Friday July 13th, 2001 2:31:55 PM
Flat-top watches everybody have their say and some were crazy ideas and some was not to bad. Flat-top now want to go join Kale and wonders how he can give them the slip???.
Raorr the Minotaur Friday July 13th, 2001 3:29:43 PM
Raorr looks bat the group "Why plan our questions, we never have before. Why don't we all yell out our questions and get it over with quickly, Once their asked we can focus on ones they seem to respond to. They are out numbered and the law protects them" Roarr thinks about how stupid laws can be when the criminal seems to be protected from the victims when victims are not protected from the Criminals. "I personally hope they try something foolish like an escape attempt, now that would be fun, another fight and I can hurt them at the same time." Raorr says smiling, most likely the first time since the group met him.
Raorr turns to Hoames "When Centaur hurry up, I'd like to gert there before Kale gets back. And if any of you other taurs don't feel up to facing the bad guys, or feel that they can't comeup with anything to say why don't you keep an eye on Kale before he gets us all in trouble with his perverse habit of flashing everybody. Most people dislike shaved Minotaurs exposeing themselves in public, myself being one of them!"
OOC: I mention shaved since I can't for the life of me see how Kale being covered in scars all over could possibly have much hair. I looked at the MM and Minotaurs are real shaggy, so If we all could easily see his scars then he must have very little hair...*Shudders* A flashing minotaur would not be something I like trying to envision
Ceira Karwyn Friday July 13th, 2001 5:23:59 PM
"Yes, I agree with Raorr." adds Ceira.
A moment of awkward silence...
"No not like that! I don't want to hurt them if they escape. Goodness no! What I meant was to just ask the questions without planning. I have a slew of questions all cued up so I'm ready whenever you all are."
Kalon the Wemic Friday July 13th, 2001 11:27:49 PM
Kalon shakes his head,"If we talk to them as a group they will just draw courage from each other and not fear that they could be in trouble. We need to talk to them seperately. That way they can feel properly in danger and more willing to co-operate."
Zeoll Sunday July 15th, 2001 1:39:22 AM
"Seperrately or togetherr is all one to me," Zeoll says. "But afterr everryone else has had a chance to speak, I hope to addrress the ones who have not parrticipated."
Kenisha Sunday July 15th, 2001 10:10:30 PM
Kenisha says, "Planning or no, I have to agree with Kalon. The smugglers will only boister each other if we talk to them all in one group."
Ready or Not... (DM Donna) Monday July 16th, 2001 6:13:39 AM
Hoames looks around at all of you, then nods.
"Very well, then, let us be off!" the constable says, and beckons to his assistant. "Come, Clopson--the game is a-hoof!" With this, the two constables lead the party out of the office area and up one more level that, although there is some open space, makes you all feel as though there was no easy way to exit.
"This is the internment level," Clopson explains as the pair lead you on, "During crime investigation and before the trial, suspects are housed here--behind that door, which leads to the other half of this level..." The junior constable pointed to a portal that looked to be made of very dark wood. "...whenever the suspects are to be interrogated or briefed, we take them to interrogation chambers in this half of the level."
"Here we are!" Hoames announces as he stops next to a door with the number "3" carved into the wood and highlighted in gold. "IC3!" The constable opens the door and ushers you all in. Inside the room you see two other centaurs--a dark brown male and a female of palomino coloring.
"LaStride! Flickasen!" Hoames nods to his two colleagues. "These are the ones who wish to speak to the suspects."
"Welcome, Chosen of Domi!" the male says a bit warily, obviously eyeing the non-centaurs of your party. "I am LaStride, senior Defendor for the suspects apprehended at the Surefoot Vineyards last night. This is my assistant, Flickasen." Here the female nods acknowledgement. "The GC has given permission for you to speak with the suspects, but only as long as both Defendor and Accusor are present as witnesses. This is to ensure that you use neither magic nor physical duress on the accused."
"Now, as I have said before," Hoames adds, "It is only we constables--as Accusors and Defendors--who must operate under the 'truth in all dealings' rule...but do not call upon either LaStride nor myself to bolster any...stretches of the truth that you engage in, for our oath will force us to reveal that you are trying to hoodwink the suspects. Do you understand..?" The Accusor looks around at you.
"Why, Hoames..!" LaStride looks surprised and, perhaps, a bit amused. "I didn't realize that part of the code...but you're right! These people are NOT constables, and so don't have to tell the truth. Why...this should prove interesting...very interesting, indeed!"
"The Chosen of Domi will speak to the suspects individually." Clopson says, then turns to the party members present. "Do you have a preference as to which suspect you want to talk to first..?"
Zeoll Monday July 16th, 2001 7:09:36 AM
After thinking for a moment, Zeoll suggests, "Maybe we should talk with the centaurr firrst. As a Taurr, he will have had the clearrest idea of the severrity of his offense. He may let drrop a hint about the culpability of the otherrs."
Turning to the constables, Zeoll adds, smiling, "I admirre yourr devotion to the trruth. But I suspect that the accused will not feel as strrongly devoted to it."
Turning back to his comrades, Zeoll says, "If anyone has any prreparrations to make beforre we begin, then make them now!"
Kale Monday July 16th, 2001 9:29:11 AM
Kale steps outside the building after everyone goes to talk with the prisoners. after leaning against the door for a few minuets, he gets bored and begins to wander around a bit(he isnt shaved, but most of his hair is gone except for little tuffs here and there)
Flat-top Monday July 16th, 2001 9:45:38 AM
"AHHH! yes, the vengeful one. He will be very interesting, What do you want me to do?
Kalon the Wemic Monday July 16th, 2001 3:41:14 PM
Kalon speaks up,"Well we must use our first subject to prepare for the ruse. Bring him in question him. I suspect he will say nothing he knows what his crime will bring to him. After he is removed he should be kept seperated from the prisoners while we make alot of noise and make it sound like he is being questioned hard. Then once we have done that suitably prepare whoever we choose. I think Raorr is the best choice because it just the stereotype assiciated with minotaurs that will frighten them. As I said I will volunteer some blood for the "makeup". Perhaps as an addition we could get a large piece of raw meat to set before Zeoll. After all he was certainly one of the most feircesome amongst us during the attack. We say as little as possible always answer without telling them they are safe. Just let their imagination take over and they should soon tell us what we need to know. After each prisoner is questioned we need to make the noises again" he pauses to catch his breath,"Then when the next one comes in Raorr can lean in close and ay something like,"The last one wasn't very helpful, for your sake I hope you are more helpful""
Ceira Karwyn Monday July 16th, 2001 7:46:00 PM
"AH HA HA HA..." laughs Ceira. After recovering she say to Kalon, "That is an absolutely splendid plan! You're quite the clever one Kalon. I don't suppose you've used this tactic before? This sounds well thought out."
(OOC: I hope I don't sound sarcastic with her laugh. My intentions aren't to mock him, but to boisterously support his plan)
Kenisha Monday July 16th, 2001 8:13:30 PM
Kenisha snickers as Kalon lays out his plan.
"I only object to the playing up of the old stereotypes, but I do admit that it is a good plan."
Raorr the Minotaur Monday July 16th, 2001 8:27:22 PM
Raorr asks "Do either of you constables have to be present in the room? If Kalon's plan has any merit it would be quickly undone if they are able to ask either constable to verify Our 'ploy'. In addition I wonder if the centaur would be the best or worst choice for the first questioning. We may get more useful info from him if first however the blood 'ploy won't be as believable if we 'injured' a fellow taur. A human would be more co-operative in that case, however I feel the woman would be a bad choice due to her emotional situation wouldn't you agree? In that case perhaps a dwarf would be the best first 'victim'"
Pickin' & Choosin' (DM Donna) Tuesday July 17th, 2001 5:54:07 AM
Hoames contemplates the situation for a moment.
"Well, remember, friend Raorr, that the suggestion is to question Puller--the leader and the centaur suspect--first withOUT using the...ahh...graphics; Puller HAS been arrested and punished for other offenses before, and, indeed, is likely not to say much of anything, although he may let slip how knowledgeable the rest of his gang was. No, the 'meat' ploy will be for the benefit of the next person you question AFTER Puller."
"So...does this mean we should send for Puller first..?" LaStride asks the party present.
~~~~~
Meanwhile, Kale is poking around the outside of the constabulary, glad to be away from the presence of all that law and order.
"Hey...hey, mister..!" a young voice asks behind him. "...hey...Mister Minotaur..!" Now there's a tug at the hem of Kale's tunic...
Kale Tuesday July 17th, 2001 7:43:30 AM
a little surprised that someone was able to get so close to him without him noticing, Kale turns towards the voice, pulling his robe a bit so that whoever is grabbing it looses its grip
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday July 17th, 2001 10:35:35 AM
Kalon the Wemic looks at Kenisha,"Stereotypes are the best since it will be what they know most readily. I just think you want to play the "bad" centaur. That is fine but I Think Raorr should start it off. As for the centaur being the first I think the humans will be in even more fear if we do that TO a fellow taur. Then let them imagine what we might do to a HUMAN?" looking at the two constables and Raorr he says,"They are here to observe and to make sure the prisoners are not abused or their rights compromised. If a prisoner seeks to ask them something I do not see it as a breach if they just don't answer. Certainly if they had to say something they would have to answer the truth. That would be when either you or Kenisha if she wants,"he glances at her with a shy smile,"just keep up your act, step between him and the constables and say something like,"Don't look at them I'm the one that's going rip your spine out if you don't answer my question" his says in as deep voice like Raorr,"Zeoll sitting with the meat could slice off a piece and occasionally flick it one and lick his lips. You know things like that. As you all play the "bad" questioners Ceira and I can play the ones who will implore them to answer for their own sakes we need to make them nervous" he pauses to look at the assembled members to see if they understand what he is trying to get at.
Flat-top Tuesday July 17th, 2001 1:12:37 PM
"Well, I think I'll stand out of the way and watch."said Flat-top then went and lean on the wall and cross his arm on his chest.
Raorr the minotaur Tuesday July 17th, 2001 11:48:13 PM
RAorr looks to Leets "What does your beliefs say about this plan, 'Holy Crusader of Domi' I'm sure their must be some moral problems you have with it. So speak up now."
Zeoll Tuesday July 17th, 2001 11:59:36 PM
The wemic shifts uncomfortably. "I will sit in this spot and play a silent rrole, and perrhaps even ask a question or two. But I am not a good actorr, and rratherr than give it away, I will be quiet."
"Yes, show in the centaurr," Zeoll says to the constable.
Kenisha Wednesday July 18th, 2001 12:42:14 AM
"Me? Who would be afraid of me? I'm tiny! Well I suppose ta dwarf might think me big, but I'm nothing standing next to Flat-top." Kenisha shakes her head. " No thanks, I'll pass on playing the baddie. As to which one first, I'd say Puller is the best bet."
Send In Contestant #1..! (DM Donna) Wednesday July 18th, 2001 7:02:30 AM
After the basic strategy is worked out, Hoames looks at LaStride, who then nods to Flickasen. The female constable leaves, soon returning with the centaur that Raorr grappled to a standstill just last night.
"Puller," LaStride addresses the suspect, "These people have been given permission to speak with you. It would be best if you were cooperative." The other centaur sneers, directing most of his insolence to Raorr.
"I see NO need to bother with speaking to a horn-head." Puller replies in a provoking tone of the centaur language...an obvious bid to tick off the non-centaurs of the party.
Flat-top Wednesday July 18th, 2001 10:17:50 AM
"Watch It! Butt-face. Raorr is the one who got to you first. Believe me I really I wanted your err hmm Hide. Sorry, Raorr for the interruption." Said Flat-top as he snort and hooves the floor.
Kale Wednesday July 18th, 2001 11:04:32 AM
"I guess it wasnt anything." Kale says to himself after searching for the voice, then he continues to wander around.
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday July 18th, 2001 7:32:19 PM
A look of confusion crosses Raorr's face the centaur speaks. Obviously Raorr does not comprehend the words spoken. Hearing Flat-top's quick response Raorr's expression changes to anger, his face contorts again and through his teeth he snarls "Well PONY, I'm gonna love watching you die, I'll be sure to watch and listen to your pitiful cries to your mother to make the pain stop."When we ask a question you will answer. Quickly and precisely, And if you are unwilling to cooperate I'll get myself arrested to get the inforamtion from you on the inside."
Raorr's language becomes cruder and more barbaric and his expression even more so "If I have to do that, you piece of trash, I'll be very upset and ensure taht I personally pull each of your hooves from your scrawny, mule-ish legs and feed them to you one at a time."
He shoots a glance over to the Constables still present and ponders whether or not he'd be able to kill the centaur before he's stopped by them. To those in the group that have seen Raorr control himself notice that Raorr doesn't seem to have all that control at this time. However Raorr restrains himself waiting for the first series of questions, and waiting to see the centaurs answers.
Zeoll Wednesday July 18th, 2001 11:48:04 PM
Zeoll waits, looking solemn, and does not yet speak.
Kenisha Thursday July 19th, 2001 12:49:20 AM
Kenisha eyes Raorr nervously and clears her throat before addressing the prisoner in Centaur. "Ahem... yes. Puller, you are here to answer our questions. Failure to do so will be..." Kenisha pauses to glance at Raorr, "most unpleasant."
"Question number one. How did you intend to transport the wine?"
Ceira Karwyn d20+1=5 Thursday July 19th, 2001 12:56:57 AM
OOC: Diplomacy = 5 :(
"Hold it Raorr." says Ceira as she steps forward. "You can..." she glances at Hoames with the corner of her eye, "... do what you want if we do not like what we hear."
"Now then." she says to Puller. "I know you've been through this process before and you know you have certain rights. That's fine and dandy but let's get this straight. As Raorr has pointed out, WE are not part of the law. WE don't have to abide by any rules of the interrogation process to get information. This is why Raorr is not afraid to act on his own accord and maybe get arrested for it. You heard him. Just look at him. He is--"
Ceira recoils when she realizes that Raorr is on the brink of REALLY losing control. She makes eye contact with Hoames to hopefully convey the message that there may be a potential situation here.
"Uhh... yeah. Well... He..." she stammers, "You'd better tell us what your motives were and be quick!" blurts Ceira with a tinge of fear in her voice. Specifically, a fear of having things get out of control.
Meanwhile, Outside the Constabulary... (DM Donna) Thursday July 19th, 2001 6:24:41 AM
(OOC: hmmm...I posted this yesterday, but for some odd reason it didn't take. That seems to happen every once in a while. Sorry, Kale--here it is again.)
Just as Kale takes a step or two away from the building, the tug on the hem of his tunic occurs once more.
"Hey, mister..!" This time, when the rogue turns and looks, he sees a young centaur child--couldn't possibly be more than seven or eight years of age. The little girl looks up, up, up at the big, tall, and heavily-scarred minotaur, her hazel eyes widening. For a moment, Kale is sure that the girl is going to scream, but then her eyes go blank. She opens her mouth and speaks in a voice that's a bit too mature for such a young child:
"Wander the streets with naught to see But this child with a prophecy. Infidels within must suffer their fate Whilst believers travel through a gate. Play the tune for the key to be found Then the Chosen will soon be Lankhmar-bound. Honor is all for a cause that's just, The truth will prevail, as it must..."
The girl falls silent, her face still blank.
Good Taur, Bad Taur (DM Donna) d20-2=0 Thursday July 19th, 2001 6:37:33 AM
Puller eyes the minotaur who bested him in battle, and tosses his head defiantly. Even as Ceira's concern makes the senior Accuser begin to move forward, however, the wemic sorceress' words have a definite effect on the centaur smuggler...or--more likely--the combination of Raorr's appearance and Ceira's diplomacy seem to appeal to Puller's common sense.
(OOC: I rolled a Willpower versus Ceira's Diplomacy result--guess who lost? ;D)
"Awright--AWRIGHT!" Puller blurts out, sweat breaking out on his forehead. "We was gonna grab the wine and hightail it to the cove--we had a skiff there that we was gonna row out to the ship." His face takes on a mulish, dark look. "The crew will do anything for a profit, an' I wanted revenge on the Surefoots for firin' me...so's we came up with a safe way t' raid the stores for Purple an' Blue Wine."
Flat-top Thursday July 19th, 2001 8:38:53 AM
Flat-top was listerning then told the rest of the party,"That's nothing new, we already knew that when we followed the tracks to the shore. Now Where is these nicy-nice crew that's likes profits? Our Lord Domi want to know???"
Kale Thursday July 19th, 2001 9:48:24 AM
being a bit surprised at what he just heard, Kale says. "Can you repeat that little girl."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday July 19th, 2001 11:10:43 AM
Looking at the centaur,"Listen carefully Puller is it?" he steps abit closer,"What we want to know is all that you know about the pirates you are selling the sacred wine to and when they will be expecting you to meet them for the next shipment. The sacrilege you did was great but we are the Chosen of Domi. By helping us you restore at least in a small part the wrong you have done in the greatness of our god. Co-operation is good for you and good for us since you are not ignorant of our laws on the sacred wine you must know full well your punishment should you be found guilty. Help us find out what we wish, swear your true repentence to our great god and I will do all I can to help you." without turning to look at the centaurs present,"I am not familiar with the form of a death punishment in the centaur lands is it drawing and quartering." he takes another step closer to Puller as he speaks in all earnestness.
OOC: Kalon has slowly taken a couple of steps closer to Puller to intercept Raorr if he tries to go for Puller. If Raorr does Kalon will strike Raorr trying for his stunning blow
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday July 19th, 2001 6:19:37 PM
Raorr continues breathing deeply keeping his eyes on Puller.
Waiting for a slip in his co-operation...
Kenisha Thursday July 19th, 2001 11:01:51 PM
Kenisha remains silent for the moment since others have picked up on the questioning. She does keep an eye on both Puller and Raorr; fingering one of her carved shells she has woven into her hair.
Ceira Karwyn Friday July 20th, 2001 12:25:17 AM
Awaiting the answer to Kalon's question, Ceira crosses her arms and stares intently at Puller. Every now and then, she'll take a few quick glances at Raorr to try and read his expression.
Zeoll Friday July 20th, 2001 6:09:28 AM
Zeoll waits to hear the criminal's response.
One-Shot Prophecy (DM Donna) Friday July 20th, 2001 7:29:09 AM
The little centaur girl opens her mouth to speak, but the voice that Kale hears is of a higher pitch, not as ancient sounding, loud--and comes from off to one side of the street.
"Marigold Dappleshade, you come over here this instant!!!" the owner of the voice--looking and sounding like the colt's mother--gallops up to Kale and her daughter. "What in the Wold possessed you to canter off like that? You naughty child!" The mare picks up her offspring, casting a bit of suspicious eye on Kale, frowning a little. The little girl stirs in her mother's arms, animation and the exuberance of the very young returning to her eyes once more.
"I...I'm sorry, Dammy," she says, "I...I had to tell him something important. Something his friends must know."
"And what was THAT, Marigold?" the older female demands humorously. "You had to tell him how many sugarhoofs you had at breakfast..? Or how many butterflies you've chased today..?"
"I...I can't remember, Dammy," Marigold answers with a child's honesty, "I just know that he has to tell the others...the Chosen."
"Well..." Marigold's dam turns to Kale and looks him over once more, then addresses the minotaur in a curiously rough voice: "...I hope my child didn't unduly bother you then...Chosen One. Now...if you'll excuse us..." Mother and daughter quickly trot off.
Meanwhile, Back in IC3... (DM Donna) Friday July 20th, 2001 7:48:37 AM
Before any of the other party members can answer, Puller gives a short laugh.
"The penalty for blasphemy, wemic, is death by hanging." Puller looks sharply at the monk. "It's considered a coward's death." The suspect sighs heavily. "I'll be found guilty, lion-taur...because all I thought about was revenge, an' the Temple teaches us that a warrior don't fight for revenge...a warrior fights for justice." The centaur shakes his head.
"You'll never find the Zephyr now--the skiff was manned by two pirates who had orders to wait until dawn. When we didn't show with the usual haul, they likely pushed off an' returned to the ship." Puller shrugs. "I was just a means for 'em to get some booty without workin' too hard for it...I dunno where the ship may be now."
Kalon the Wemic Friday July 20th, 2001 10:08:41 AM
He nods as Puller answers,"Thank you that was helpful. Just a couple more questions if you don't mind. Would an of your crew be ex-pirates by any chance and will the pirate ship come back again at an appointed time and finally do you have any contact here who helped to connect you to the pirates?" Kalon pauses a moment thinking ,"Actually a couple more, but not about your crime. Do you feel remorse for your crimes? Would you stand as a warrior for justice if given the chance? I saw when you faced Raorr that you did not surrender. In a way that is noble and strong as a warrior should be." he pauses studying Puller intently making eye contact with him,"If you had the means to compensate the vineyard would you? And most importantly if you had a second chance what would you do with it?"
Flat-top Friday July 20th, 2001 10:09:04 AM
Now Flat-top walks beside Raorr and wispers to him, "You have done well,my friend. You now know the name of the skiff and of at less of two pirates. And something else, The reason as to why you have been chosen by Domi. A warrior fights for justice and that you, Friend, the arm of Domi 's Justice." Flat-top turns to the others, "I heard enough I'll be waiting for all of you outside with Kale," Then Flat-top leaves.
Raorr the Minotaur Friday July 20th, 2001 11:51:14 AM
As Flat-top speaks to Raorr, Raorr turns to look at him. When the centaur finishes he grunts acknowledgement however Raorr does not stay looking at him for long he returns his wild stare back to the Centaur.
Raorr stands there tensing ready to pounce, at the slightest provocation. In his mind he's already focused waiting for battle, deep down where his friendly side stays at this time it slowly tries to pull down the beast of fury that's almost been freed, it atempts to soothe the beast with softer words and promises of greater battles in the future.
Kale Sunday July 22nd, 2001 5:55:06 AM
though he looks and nods at the centaur, Kale's mind is elsewhere, thinking of what he's just heard. after about a minuet after Mairgold leaves, Kale starts to laugh out loud. wiping tears from his eyes, he thinks to himself, out of all of us, Im the one that Domi chooses to address. I bet that's going to ruffle a few feathers!
Zeoll Sunday July 22nd, 2001 2:59:59 PM
Zeoll offers a thankful and silent prayer to Tomi that things are going so well so far. "With any luck," he thinks, "the rest will go as smoothly."
Kenisha Sunday July 22nd, 2001 11:11:47 PM
Kenisha nods and smiles at Raorr. She nods to Flat-top as he passes to leave.
Truth & Consequences (DM Donna) Monday July 23rd, 2001 6:57:02 AM
Puller tilts his head as he looks at Kalon oddly.
"You're not a centaur, you don't understand." he says in a voice that seems to hold much pity. "It wouldn't make any difference if I had the ability to spit platinum, and thus pay the money back to the vineyard a hundred times over--the constabulary has made a full investigation into the complete truth of my motives and the crime...I *am* guilty of blasphemy against the teachings of Domi and the law of Centaur Isle. The ONLY penalty for such a crime is death. Period. Nothing can save me from that." Puller sighs.
"Of the pirates who are captured here with me for the same crime, all I can say is that the captain of the Zephyr has a policy that says crewmembers have only ONE chance and then they are on their own. Once we all missed the waiting skiff--which MUST be gone by now--there was NO chance of the Zephyr hanging around for us...we blew the rendezvous, and the ship is gone--never to return. Ever." The centaur turns to Hoames.
"If this is all, I'd like to go back to my cell." Puller states. The Accusor and the Defendor exchange glances, then Flickasen removes Puller from the interrogation chamber.
"Who is next to be interrogated?" Hoames asks the party.
Meanwhile, Outside the Constabulary (DM Donna) Monday July 23rd, 2001 7:04:52 AM
Kale notices that just about everyone notices him, many doing double-takes, some scowling, but all of them avoiding him...except one, who comes trotting up to him. An attack..?
No...it's Flat-top. Apparently he's finished with the proceedings inside the constabulary.
Flat-top Monday July 23rd, 2001 8:41:19 AM
Flat-top trots out of those towers of justice and out with the centaurs again. Looking around for Kale, then spots his friend down the street (just a little ways down). As he trots over to Kale. "Ah! There you are,Kale." Flat-top does not notice the stares and scowling coming from the crowed. As Kale and Flat-top meet, they grab their fore arm (like friends do) "Very predicable, They did it with malice and planning. Hey? What's this grin on you ugly face?".
Kalon the Wemic Monday July 23rd, 2001 11:21:34 AM
As Puller is being lead out Kalon calls after him,"Perhaps I do not understand but I know that asking for forgiveness of our god is the first step to receiving it. I will keep my word and speak to those in power on your behalf pray our great lord guide you a forgive you."
He watches saddness in his heart as the centaur is lead away. Then turning to the others,"I do not expect the others will be able to tell us anymore if what Puller said is true. I do not know if or which one we should question next"
Kenisha Monday July 23rd, 2001 8:39:59 PM
"Perhaps the female?" Kenisha suggests to Kalon and the others.
Zeoll Monday July 23rd, 2001 11:56:31 PM
Zeoll agrees. "Yes, let us talk with the female."
Raorr the Minotaur Tuesday July 24th, 2001 6:02:38 AM
"I see no point in talking to any of them any longer unless your hopes are to get some names. A man with no hope of living rarely choses to lie, even if dishonest in life. He may be trying to prepare to get forgiveness with doomi before his death. I thiknk continuing at this time is pointless. The rest are just low level hooligans and muscle."
One More Try (DM Donna) Tuesday July 24th, 2001 6:52:01 AM
Hoames and LaStride exchange glances, then nod to Clopson, who leaves.
"We will bring the female human." Hoames says.
"She gives her name as 'Peg Leg Linda.' " adds LaStride. "Though Domi knows why--neither of her legs are prosthetics." The door opens up and Flickasen accompanies Clopson and the human female smuggler you all remember from just last night.
She looks like she is very likely pretty by human standards, but her face and eyes look puffy, as though she'd been crying all night.
"Does she need to have that Tongues spell refreshed?" LaStride asks his assistant, who shakes her head.
"No, sir--there's another hour or so to go on hers."
"These are civilians," Hoames says to the human, "They are here to ask you some questions." The woman turns her head and looks at you all, but her face spasms as she sees Zeoll. She makes an obvious effort to curb her reaction, though, and sits there with a stone face.
Meanwhile, Outside the Constabulary... (DM Donna) Tuesday July 24th, 2001 6:54:46 AM
Flat-top paws the ground, still awaiting Kale's response to his question.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday July 24th, 2001 8:43:07 AM
Kalon feels a saddness growing inside as he watches the woman then moves abit closer before sitting in a very unthreatening manner,"Could we get you anything mam?" he waits to hear her response.
OOC: getting her anything within reason like water or such. That accomplished he continues talking to her.
"I am sorry about the death of the one man. I tried to help him but it was to late already. Was he your mate?"Kalon again will await a response then proceed forth.
"I am Kalon and we need to ask you some questions. Co-operation is in your best interest and if you co-operate I will do what I can on your behalf. Please tell us all that you know about the pirates that you were selling the wine to, names, destinations, number of crew members, size of the ship and such"
Kale Tuesday July 24th, 2001 9:40:17 AM
Kale was laughing soo hard, he didnt notice Flat-Top right away. "Oh, nothing really." Kale says in between chuckles. "Ive just been blessed by our patron god with information about our next quest. What I find so funny is that he chose me to give it to. Oh, by the way, maybe you should hold this." Kale says as he hands Flat-Top the gold medalion. "I dont want to be accused of stealing our reward."
Flat-top Tuesday July 24th, 2001 10:14:20 AM
Flat-top is looking at Kale (who's chuckling so hard) " you were blessed by Domi? with information of our next Quest? Yes, it is sort of funny, HE HE But you are one of the Chosen One. I cannot wait to see the sock on the others face." Snicker Snicker as kale puts a gold madalion into his hands, " Tee Hee Where did you get this? who is this for?"
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday July 24th, 2001 11:32:07 AM
"You seem sad." says Ceira soothingly. "Why do you weep? Is it because of the consequences of your faults or do you weep for a loved one?"
Zeoll Tuesday July 24th, 2001 12:43:42 PM
As with the other prisoner, Zeoll remains solemn and silent.
Kenisha Tuesday July 24th, 2001 8:21:35 PM
Kenisha stays back and observes the prisoner as the answers Kalon's and Ceira's questions.
A Sorry Pirate (DM Donna) Wednesday July 25th, 2001 9:23:01 AM
Outside the constabulary, Kale and Flat-top draw a few stares and glances, but nobody approaches them.
Inside IC3, the female human draws herself up and sits rigidly with a look of fierce determination on her face.
"I am Peg Leg Linda," she says coldly, "Crewmember of the Zephyr...since magic's been used to reveal what I did already, there's no harm in telling you beastly lot what the horsies already know--we're PIRATES, by the Abyss--we take what we want WHEN we want it...and we wanted the wine. For partying and for profit. And--not that it's any of YOUR business, furface--" here Peg Leg's voice sneers directly at Ceira, "--but I'm crying over my brother, Hot Dog Mike...the guy THAT one over there butchered!" The woman jabs an accusing finger Zeoll's way, then suddenly leaps to her feet, prompting Clopson to grab hold of her as she screams at the top of her lungs:
"I'm only sorry that we weren't able to finish you off, you sorry sack of fur!!! How DARE you come between us and what we wanted??? How DARE you stop us from getting the loot that we schemed long and hard for??? Someday I'll get you for this! JUST SEE IF I DON'T...!!!" Both Flickasen and Clopson bodily drag off the struggling, yelling human.
"Hmmm..." Hoames says in the silence that prevails after Peg Leg Linda's rant, "...I would say that none of these smugglers had any reservations about killing anybody that got in their way."
Kale Wednesday July 25th, 2001 9:26:39 AM
"Why, it was our reward for stopping the thieves. Have you forgotten?" Kale asks Flat-Top. then he says "Havent those guys in there finished yet?"
Zeoll Wednesday July 25th, 2001 9:43:44 AM
Zeoll speaks softly in his native wemic tongue.
"A Hell Hound dam might grieve in like fashion over dead cubs or mate, but she would still be as quick to rip out the throat of a Wemic."
He shakes his head, heavy with the memories of his own slain clan, and waits for the next pirate to be brought forth.
Kenisha Wednesday July 25th, 2001 9:51:51 AM
"So it would seem, Hoames." Kenisha replies with a sadness in her voice.
"We may not fair any better with the other prisoners."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday July 25th, 2001 10:27:14 AM
Kalon shifts uneasily, shaking his head,:So much violence in the world"he mutters the turns to address Hoames,"Perhaps, perhaps not, something in her life made her choose the path she was on. She is speaking through grief, anger and a little fear"
Turning to address the group he says, "I do not think they will have the information we need."
Flat-top Wednesday July 25th, 2001 11:38:28 AM
"No I don't remember. I do what has to be done. Now when the rest of the party find out that the pirates had every intention of stealing that wine. To me it makes no differance, they planed, they came to steal and they were ready to kill for it." Then Flat-top starts to laugh again, "Tee Hee snicker, I cannot wait to see their faces. OH! yes I'm glad that Domi gave you the message."
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday July 25th, 2001 11:44:46 AM
"I partially agree with Kalon. While it is true, this so-called 'Peg Leg' is acting out of grief and anger, that does not mean the others will be the same. Her brother was slain so the strong emotions are justified. The others may be a bit more passive about it so we can't count them out just yet. Bring on the next one..."
Next...! (DM Donna) Thursday July 26th, 2001 7:53:05 AM
Flickasen and Clopson are dispatched to retrieve another of the smugglers--this time it's one of the dwarves. He's spelled so that he understands your language (and can be understood by you.)
"I'm Geode." he says. "I just wanna do my time and get off this stupid island."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday July 26th, 2001 9:37:57 AM
Kalon looks at the dwarf,"That is assuming that such an option exists for you. Death after all is the normal punishment for the stealing of the sacred wine. We require information about your pirate contacts names, places, ways of contacting them and so on. Co-operate and things will go better for you fail to and..." he gestures with his thumb toward Zeoll,"well he is feeling hungry"
Flat-top Thursday July 26th, 2001 3:25:00 PM
After a good laugh "Oh! Yes,!" said Flat-top,"That madallion you gave me (you know the one that Domi gave you for the party?) Well, I went to the Catacombs for exchange for chits. I had a little trouble in there, don't know if I'm welcome in there again. They changed it for 8 markers worth 222gp a piece and one marker worth 224gp. Zeoll after the arbitration took his marker and came back to Centaur Isle. I don't remember if Raorr had taken his, But I put mine in my pouch so that leaves 7 markers for the rest of the party." "And here they are (Flat-top gives 7 markers worth 222gp to Kale) I want you to give them to the party when you tell them about the message from Domi." Then Flat-top starts another round of laughter.
Zeoll d20+3=5 Thursday July 26th, 2001 9:10:04 PM
After Kalon says that Zeoll is hungry, the wemic priest thinks to himself, "Well, yes, I am getting a little peckish, but I can wait for my lunch. There's no need to hurry just so we can eat sooner. Maybe Kalon wants the dwarf to think I'll be angry if the short fellow keeps me overlong from my midday meal. Well, I'll play along."
Zeoll frowns and speaks in common, "Yes, dwarrf, I am hungrry, so it would be betterr if you spoke quickly and did not keep us herre past lunchtime!"
The wemic glares fiercely at the dwarf.
[OOC: that's an untrained Intimidate roll up there with a +3 Chr bonus. Alas, not very intimidating.]
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday July 26th, 2001 9:36:13 PM
RAorr looks impatiently at the dwarf "WEll dwarf, I just wanna hear you answer the questions, so I can go bust your old pirate friends and their little ship. Now answer the question or they'll start calling you stumpy after I rip your leg of with my horns, and feed them to some starving dogs."
With that Raorr steps up to the table the dwarf is sitting at.
Raorr looks at Zeoll then back at The dwarf "Your right about this island though, nothing useful here but you'll be here quite some time, and I don't think the centuars on this stupid island would like to hear you say their islands stupid. You see I can handle these centaurs present myself, you on the other hand are a little short on the right equipment to fight to live. So I would suggest co-operating before word gets out in the area that's holding you that you sold out your companions. If you co-operate we won't even mention your help in our investigation, Your Puller is gonna die no matter what, Peg Leg Linda's attitude is gonna kill her. Your a dwarf and have a long life ahead of you, perhaps a deal can be made to get you off the island." Raorr's voice trail's off and then he continues "Perhaps dwarf instead of serving your time behind bars doing petty tasks and useless routines, I could get you a sentence working on something you as a dwarf could respect and possibly enjoy doing. We" motioning to the group members present " HAve a place we've moved into, I personally haven't seen it but from my companions descriptions it is quite an impressive place. I would consider in return for your complete detailed history of your association with Puller and any other criminal elemeents you have asscocited with personally or through hearing about through your merry band here, offering you to ply your dwarven skills in making the Hearthold Keep a more attractive, practical place to live in, I would be sure to allow you free rein on the small island we live on and there would be no guards to harass you. This offer woulkd last as long as your original sentenace would last and possibily you will be paid for your efforts, of course I would need to see your skills before agreeing to how much."
Raorr steps back and allows the dwarf to think
Kenisha Friday July 27th, 2001 1:12:14 AM
Kenisha watches as Kalon, Zeoll and Raorr interrogate the dwarf. It's a fight to keep the smile off her face when Zeoll glares at the dwarf. She knew he was trying to be menacing, but it just didn't come off that way to her.
Stand Back--it's a Major Gut-Spill! (DM Donna) d20=3 Friday July 27th, 2001 6:44:17 AM
(OOC: well...look who else lost their willpower to resist what little intimidation Zeoll was offering? LOL)
The normally-ruddy complexion of the dwarf's face blanches quite visibly--apparently humanoids are a lot easier to hoodwink than experienced centaurs like Kenisha.
"I don' know nuthin' from 'contacts' an' such, bullhead!" Geode says in a very earnest voice. "I'm just a hired hand f'r the Zephyr, an' I did as Cap'n Karly ordered. Alla us that ya caught is just crew--none of us know nothin' about th' operations but that we had to go fetch wine twice a month or so. We wasn't even allowed to drink none 'til we got back to th' ship itself!"
"This is true." Hoames interjects. "None of the smugglers knew any details about any of the grander plans of the ship they crewed--they were just pirates following orders. This Captain Karly person was apparently paranoid enough to never tell the crew anything they did not need to know."
Kale Friday July 27th, 2001 7:36:21 AM
Kale takes the chits from Flat-Top, then he heads back to the prison. "Im getting bored around here. Surely they have finished with those theives by now."
Zeoll d20+3=14 Friday July 27th, 2001 8:23:10 AM
Zeoll thinks to himself, "To an investigator with a clever mind, such as Hoames here, even tiny threads can form a tapestry of information. Let me see what threads I can draw out of this dwarf, while he is cooperative."
Turning to Geode, the wemic says sterrnly, "We shall judge what inforrmation is useful orr not. Now, tell me ..."
He pauses, then asks point by point ...
"List the names of the porrts you visited on the Zephyrr, and how often, and in what orrderr. List porrts that the ship visited when you werre not aboarrd."
"In the porrts you visited, what werre the taverrns and establishments frrequented by pirrates? Tell us about the barrkeeps and merrchants you patrronized."
"List the carrgoes that you know or thought the ship carrried, and how much, and frrom wherre to wherre. For example, wherre was the sacrred blue wine unloaded?"
"What does this Karrly look like? What clothes does he wearr? Does he have any scarrs? Mannerrisms? Favorrite colorrs, or foods, or weapons? How long have you serrved him? How tall is he? What is his complexion? His hairr colorr?"
"Who else did you serrve with aboarrd the Zephyrr? List theirr names, jobs, and rranks. Tell us theirr rraces, appearrances, and so on. Be detailed."
"What other pirrate ships did you encounterr? What werre theirr captains' names? Tell us about them."
[OOC: That's my untrained Sense Motive check up there with a +3 Wis bonus -- to try to tell if the dwarf starts lying.]
[By the way, Sam, if you intend for us to go a-hunting pirates, then I guess we really need the answers the dwarf provides. On the other hand, if this is info that we are gathering only for Hoames's sake, then I, Cayzle, don't need to hear it. Oh, and welcome to the game!]
Kalon the Wemic Friday July 27th, 2001 10:50:15 AM
Kalon smiles at Zeoll's long list of questions,"Yes that is the kind of information we are in need of. I think Raorr is looking forward to feeding his dogs and lunch is getting closer..."
OOC: If pirates are not in our future as I suspect they might not be then let's just skip ahead. Assuming the GM doesn't mind. The group will just keep playing mind games with the pirates like this. What do other players think of this idea?
Flat-top Friday July 27th, 2001 11:00:41 AM
"They should be! I think the crooks are all guilty" said Flat-top. As he follows Kale back into the police station. "Snicker" smiled Flat-top.
Kenisha Sunday July 29th, 2001 9:48:50 PM
Feeling like a fifth hoof but unable to pull herself away from the interrogations, Kenisha continues to watch and listen.
Ceira Karwyn Monday July 30th, 2001 2:23:11 AM
"Yikes, aren't you asking for a bit much from them Zeoll? I mean... sure they may not know about the big picture but based on how I perceive Hoames' confidence in extracting further information, I don't think we'll get much more out of them. Afterall, Hoames and his operatives are supposed to be the expert interrogators here."
DM #2(dm sam) Monday July 30th, 2001 9:05:49 AM
as Zeoll asks all of his questions, Geode begins to sweat profusely and shake a bit. as soon as Zeoll finishes, the poor pirate collapses to the ground. Hoames rushes to Geode's side and checks his pulse. "Hes ok, he just fainted." then he calls for 2 of his guards to help Geode and they remove him from the room. then, in a bit of an angry voice, Hoames says "Ive allowed you to question the prisoners seeing that you were the ones that caught them. But I belive your interrigations are at an end. Even though they are thieves, they are MY responsibility and I cannot allow them to think that they are in danger of being killed outright. That makes a prisoner unstable and prone to do drastic actions, causing harm to my men. Im sorry, but I think its time for you all to go."
Kale Monday July 30th, 2001 9:07:29 AM
moving back into the building, Kale hears what Hoames says, but decides to wait near the door. "I guess they are done." he says to himself
Flat-top Monday July 30th, 2001 12:09:20 PM
Flat-top following Kale, almost bump into Kale, "Hey! Why did you stop? And did you hear anything interesting?"
Kalon the Wemic Monday July 30th, 2001 3:49:08 PM
"Let's go we have as much as we can hope for" Kalon turns and leaves the room almost bumping into the waiting Kale.
Zeoll Monday July 30th, 2001 6:24:33 PM
Zeoll bows.
"I hope we have helped you," he says to Hoames.
"Good luck with yourr investigations."
The wemic departs.
Kenisha Monday July 30th, 2001 10:26:14 PM
Kenisha follows Zeoll out the room after thanking Hoames for his time.
Once outside she says, "Well that was both productive and depressing."
Together Again(dm sam) Tuesday July 31st, 2001 6:25:41 AM
Kenisha, Zeoll, and the others leave the interrogation room to find Kale and Flat-Top waiting for them, smiles on Kale's and Flat-Top's faces
Kale Tuesday July 31st, 2001 6:26:24 AM
"Well, did you all learn anything interesting? I did." Kale says to everyone
Flar-top Tuesday July 31st, 2001 10:40:40 AM
Flat-top leans on the wall with the the biggest grin on his face,"Shall we go for a Mounten ice and sparkling water?"
Zeoll Tuesday July 31st, 2001 3:37:43 PM
Zeoll smiles back. "Now what has made you two so pleased with yourrselves?" he asks.
After hearing whatever story there is to tell, Zeoll asks if there is any other busimess to keep them on Centaur Island. Should the group return to Hearthold Keep?
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday July 31st, 2001 4:01:13 PM
"That sounds nice." says Ceira. "I'm a bit parched. We had better get moving. This has been quite an advnture. Plus, Raorr hasn't had the opportunity to tour our new home."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday July 31st, 2001 9:59:54 PM
Kalon waits for Kale and Flat-top to explain themselves as he rolls around what they learned from the smugglers.
Kenisha Tuesday July 31st, 2001 11:08:20 PM
"Well we learned some things, not too sure how useful it all is." Kenisha says with a thoughtful look on her face. "So what did you learn?"
Talking(dm sam) Wednesday August 1st, 2001 4:07:16 AM
the group remains just inside the prison building, trying to figure out what to do next
Kale Wednesday August 1st, 2001 4:12:20 AM
"Well, this might be hard to belive, but while you were all in there, I was told that our path lies in Lankhmar, and that the path to Lankhmar is at a certain gate here in this city, but its only activated by a certain musical sound. I think we have to find someone here that knows of the gate and the musical notes that activate it."
Zeoll Wednesday August 1st, 2001 6:54:36 AM
"Well," Zeoll says, "I was kind of looking forrwarrd to a visit home, but the path of the Chosen is not always obvious."
The wemic asks Kale, "Who told you this, if you don't mind, and can you rrememberr theirr exact worrds?"
Flat-top Wednesday August 1st, 2001 10:44:01 AM
"Our path lies in Lankhmar, HUH!" said Flat-top, with one hand on his chin and the other holding on his weapon around his neck. "I guess that means that the picnic is out, I did want to see how Sargasso (the Satyr) and his friends got here, But I'm Still thirsty, So let's get a bit to eat. Them do Domi wish!"
Leets (back, sorry for being so long...) Wednesday August 1st, 2001 2:36:51 PM
The young Paladin grins as he sees the two guards coming for the fainted Geode. He watches his fellows leving the interrogation room, quiet, but he was obviously hearing what was said and looks a little bit sad about it.
"It's such a pity we have to behave this way...May Domi bring this dwarf back on the way of truth and justice."
Leets takes a long breath, clearing his mind, but mentally swearing he will try to come back to this dwarf and his friends as soon as he can.
"In Lankhmar?" - asks Leets when hearing Kale's words - "I don't even know where it is? What would we have to do over there? Could we find the pirates in this city?"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday August 1st, 2001 8:17:14 PM
"Lankhmar? Yes, just WHO told you this anyhow? You weren't out here for very long. Perhaps one of the authorities here?"
Kenisha Wednesday August 1st, 2001 11:36:02 PM
Kenisha starts to nod in agreement with Zeoll and Flat-top then stops suddenly.
"Flat-top you are a genius! Okay, Kale said that this gate is sound activated by a specific musical tone. Sargasso and his friends came here by way of a rainbow bridge I believe he called it, right? Pan pipes. Satyrs are known to use pan pipes, very special ones at that. At the very least we should ask him about how he got here. It could very well be that this gate and the rainbow bridge are one in the same."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday August 2nd, 2001 12:13:39 AM
Kalon continues to stand and await the groups next move.
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday August 2nd, 2001 12:33:14 AM
Raorr silently follows the group relaxing waiting for someone to finally step up and take leadership...
Delayed(dm sam) Friday August 3rd, 2001 9:32:11 AM
(sorry about no posts yesterday, i had a migrane headache all day). the group continues to stand around, getting curious looks from some of the guards in the prison forum. after a about two minuets, one of the guards approaches the group and says. "Sorry, but if your bussiness is done, you need to move along."
Kale Friday August 3rd, 2001 9:38:09 AM
Kale is about to answer all the questions when the guard asks everyone to leave. shrugging his shoulders, he leaves. once everyone is outside, he says "A little girl who was able to sneak up on me without me noticing her told me, except when she spoke, it wasnt in the voice of a little girl. There was great power and knowelge behind the voice. As for what she said,
Wander the streets with naught to see But this child with prophecy Infidels within must suffer their fate Whilst belivers travel through a gate Play the tune for the key to be found Then the Chosen will so be Lankhmar - bound Honor is all for a cause that's just The truth will prevail, as it must.
I dont know how you think, but im sure that means our path lies in Lankhmar, where ever that is."
Flat-top Friday August 3rd, 2001 11:07:12 AM
"HUH?" Flat-top is surprised at what Kenisha had said about him being a genius (what ever that is). "All I want is for us to go on a picnic, with Sargasso and his friends. Sargasso did mention a Rainbow Gate!. I don't know where this Lankhmar is. But there's no Lankhmar on Centaur Island, Do you Kenisha? Or You Leets?. But if Domi said we have to go to Lankhmar, I'm going to Lankhmar."
Raorr the Minotaur Friday August 3rd, 2001 1:07:37 PM
Raorr chuckles "At least we know Domi has a sense of humour. And obviously some human lessons in rhyming, the verse is horrible."
Raorr shakes his head "Flat-top, we are not going for a picnic, I didn't come here to watch you relieve some childhood dreams of eating with fairies. I disapprove of the satyr and his friends, however you may be correct about the gate and the music, but If i hear the 'prophecy correctly" he pauses running it through his head quickly " Kale is the lucky Taur who is going to be playing the tune to find the key. In any case I think we should head of to the Hearthold Keep."
With that Raorr begins walking away west.
Leets Saturday August 4th, 2001 2:11:16 PM
"I have to admit Raorr is right, Flat-Top" says the young paladin as he picks up his thing on the ground, smiling politely to the guard. "Whoever talked to Kale, he or she wanted us to know something important...I haven't been traveling much and my first steps brought me to the heartkeep , so, no Raorr, I haven't been hearing of this city of Lankhmar. If none of us heard of it, or went there, it could mean that we need some serious equipment, because if we need this "Gate" to go there, it could be really far away, whether it is Sargasso's rainbow gate or not." Leets finishes to put his things on his back, and makes one first step in Raoorr's direction, looking one last time behind him. "You could consider that you have better to do, but I prefer to walk by Raorr's side to the heartkeep. We can could get some information there, and prepare our trip. And to my mind, the sooner will be the better..." Leets galops for a couple of seconds, until he his by Raorr's side.
Flat-top Saturday August 4th, 2001 3:05:35 PM
Flat-top turns to Kale,"I know I'm not the smartest miletary center around, But when I'm get orders to go some where, I GO. And when it's Domi that does thr ordering, I really think we should listen."
Zeoll Sunday August 5th, 2001 8:17:57 AM
Zeoll "translates" the verse softly to himself (in his native tongue) as Kale recites: "Forget about the pirates. Find a gate. Use music to open it. Go through to Lankhmar so truth will prevail."
Zeoll agrees. "Tomi speaks, we listen. But if the satyrr is imporrtant, we must make surre he does not leave beforre we can talk to him."
Zeoll talks to the highest ranking Constabulary official present. He requests that a message be sent to the reverend Hollyhocks. The message is, "Please ask Satyrr Sarrgasso to wait forr one morre day. If we rreturrn tomorrrow we might need to talk with him." If he thinks it will help, Zeoll will offer a little gold in thanks for the messenger's trouble.
Then Zeoll joins the group headed home.
OOC: reminder -- I won't be posting Monday, Tuesday, and maybe not Wednesday. :-(
Kenisha Sunday August 5th, 2001 12:14:45 PM
Kenisha shrugs, "I have what I will need save food and water. Since I have no money to buy anything else, what else is there to get?"
Still, she does follow after the others as they make their way back to Heartkeep Isle.
Prophecy
Going Home(dm sam) Monday August 6th, 2001 9:35:08 AM
Zoell finds someone to deliver his message, but the young guard isnt sure where to find the constible, though he says he'll look for him. As most of the group begins the journey home, dark clouds beging to roll across the sky. every minuet or so bolts of lightning flash from the clouds. once the group arrives at the land bridge, thunder begins to crash frequently. off on the sides of the landbridge small waves beging to crash against it, each one a bit bigger than the last
Kale Monday August 6th, 2001 9:36:25 AM
"The weather sure got nasty quick!" Kale says to Flat-Top. "I think its time to find some cover
Leets Monday August 6th, 2001 10:03:16 AM
"Go ahead Kale!" says Leets as the wind blows a little bit stronger "I'll wait for our friends and bring up the rear, to be sure that all is right!" The young centaur let Raorr, Flat-Top, Kenisha and Zeoll follow Kale, and looks if anybody else is coming, his blond hair ondulating with the wind.
Raorr The Minotaur Monday August 6th, 2001 10:19:26 AM
Raorr note the bridge up head, and picks up his pace. His heart beats now like a drum, with each bolt of lightning a burst of energy pulses from his soul strengthening his resolve.
He crosses the bridge as a lightnong illuminates the sky giving Raorr his first veiw of the Keep. The image burns into his eyes, and then his mind: Home at last.
He slows down and looks back at Leets, who waits for the rest, Raorr calls out "The rest will arrive at their own pace, Hurry up the storm will break any moment and you don't want to be out in it. I feel this storm is another omen and it's intention is to get us to move faster."
Raorr begin to sprint to the castle looking around to get a good veiw of the grounds as he runs.
Flat-top Monday August 6th, 2001 11:30:34 AM
Flat-top look for his cloak, but remembers that he lost it a while ago. "You know,Kale. This is very unnatural storm and I for one, will not cross." Flat-top YELLS at Leets. "This is an Omen, it's to tell us to find the gate. I'm going to do what Domi want me to do. I'll wait here for the roasted Minotaur romp." Then Flat-top goes with Kale for shelter.
Ceira Karwyn Monday August 6th, 2001 7:50:41 PM
"You think as I do Flat-top. Well... you said it first so let's say I 'agree' with you instead." Ceira says with a smile.
"I have a bad feeling about this too. I'll wait here with Flat-top. Once I see that a few of you make it across without harm, then I'll follow."
Sensing that this is the work of Domi, she looks up into the sky for any unusual signs.
Kenisha Monday August 6th, 2001 8:36:18 PM
Kenisha nods at Ceira. "Wise is the one who listens when Gods speak to them. I say we stay here. But not just to make sure it's safe, but because our god most likely wishes us to make hast in finding this gate and traveling to our destiny."
Kalon the Wemic Monday August 6th, 2001 10:49:53 PM
Looking at the group amidst the storm Kalon marvels at the storm around him. Closing his eyes for a moment he let's the sound of thunder and roar of the wind. With each bolt he feels a shiver in his spine,"Domi may indeed want us to go someplace but we are now HERE! A short distance from the keep. Waiting here in the storm is foolish. Let us go to the keep and properly prepare ourselves since we have already come this far."
That said he glances at Kenisha and calls out over the thunder,"Somehow this storm suits you fair Kenisha you look more beautiful then ever" with that he gallops after Raorr
Is It Time To Go Home?(dm sam) Tuesday August 7th, 2001 8:49:57 AM
Kalon and Raorr move on towards the keep, while the others remain behind. once Kalon and Raorr move onto the bridge, the others notice immediatly that the storm brewing over Centaur Island begins to lessen, but that the storm over the land bridge intensifies immediatly. after moving only about 50 feet onto the bridge, Kalon and Raorr become drenched as heavy rain begins to pour down from the heavens. a bolt of lightning strikes the ground so close to the two taurs that they can feel the electric discharge, the flash bringing pain to their eyes(Kalon and Raorr make a reflex save of 15 or you are blinded for 4 rounds). though the two taurs can just see their home in the distance, they realize it might be a longer journey that they thought
Kale Tuesday August 7th, 2001 8:51:21 AM
"Someone is in trouble." Kale says more to himself than anyone else. he begins to move for cover, but stops when he sees that the weather around him is starting to clear up. "Id hate to be out there right now."
Flat-top Tuesday August 7th, 2001 6:17:13 PM
It seems to Flat-top that the Storm has a mind of it's own. It seems to intensify over where the two Taurs are. "I hate to repeat myself," said Flat-top,"BUT I told you so!" And now he watches them with great sympathy,
Raorr The Minotaur d20+1=16 Tuesday August 7th, 2001 7:20:09 PM
Raorr closes his eyes gritting his teeth from the pain. He tries to adjust his eyes as he opens them. He roars angrily "You think lightning scares me, Domi! Your destiny for us can wait a few hours I will cross this bridge, if you chose to stike me down that is your choice, but I will not be afraid, I chose my own path, I will follow your prophecy when my belly is full and my hair is dry, not before that happens." Raorr walks forward until he reaches the point where the bolt hit the ground. He looks at it and continues across the bridge.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday August 7th, 2001 8:17:43 PM
Ceira stands gawking at Raorr's determination to press on... or rather stubborness. Realizing that if diety intervention isn't enough to convince Raorr, then any suggestion by her would be futile so she remains silent. She continues standing and watching Raorr's attempt to get to the other side.
Kenisha Tuesday August 7th, 2001 8:52:01 PM
Kenisha calls out as loudly as she can, "Kalon! Come back!" She would have called out to Raorr but having heard some of his rant, she knew better than to try.
Kalon the Wemic d20+6=22 Tuesday August 7th, 2001 9:25:59 PM
Kalon can feels the surge of energy crackling through the air a split second before the bolt strikes averting his eyes. The force of the blast rocking him back a a number of spots flashing before his eyes. He looked ahead to see the brave Raorr still alive and struggling ahead. For a moment he stops, wondering if the others might be correct. He looks back at the others then toward the heaven. Perhaps it was Tomi's message to us yet he can't help but wonder. The others assume it is their god but what if it is someone trying to prevent the Chosen from reaching the keep. Why would Tomi wait until now to give us a sign to not go home? After all the message Kale received said nothing against it
"If it is your will Tomi that we not return why have you waitied till now? If it is your will so be it but I will not let Raorr face it alone if it is not your will." he yells to the raging storm.
Looking back to Kenisha he smiles,"Fear not Kenisha I will try to return Raorr to where you all are." That said he continues after Raorr.
Placing a hand upon the huge minotaur he says, "Raorr this may be our great god telling us to not return to the keep. Though I do not understand why he would prevent us from preparing ourselves. Perhaps we should turn back."
Leets Wednesday August 8th, 2001 6:34:10 AM
The young Paladin looks at the sky, obviously annoyed. seeing that Raorr and Kalon are still going forward, Leets nods at them and shouts to Kenisha:
"Maybe we failed in seeing Domi's disagreement on our way, and this - looking around - has to be our God's final words! However, if our friends keep going forward, we have to remain together: that could be some kind of test too, and I won't let them face it alone..."
Leets then looks at their two fellows, to see if they decide to change their minds or not.
The Storm Blows Off(dm sam) Wednesday August 8th, 2001 9:26:24 AM
all of the sudden, the storm stops. it stops raining, lightning, and thundering. the dark clouds roll back out to the sea. within a few minuets, the sky is bright, and the sun is warm. once Raorr and Kalon regain their senses, Raorr moves to the crater the lightning bolt created. in the middle of the crater, scorched into the earth, is an arrow pointing back towards centaur city. meanwhile while everone else is waiting to see what happens, Sargasso suddenly appears out of no where, right beside Ceira. "Howdy," the satyre says "Some storm, huh. Im getting ready to go home now, but I wanted to say thanks to you and your friends for not harming my faire friends. If your ever in Lankhmar, look me up."
Flat-top Wednesday August 8th, 2001 10:14:41 AM
Flat-top was suprized at seeing Sargasso standing there with that grin on his face. "What?? What?? It's you Sargasso and what this you live in Lankmar???" Flat-top turn to the rest if the group and winks, "Gee! What luck we were making plans to go to Lankmar. I wonder if you and the fairies would like some company? How about that Kale? - Leets? - Kenisha? - Ceira? - Kalon?." Flat-top has this knowing smile on his face.
Kenisha Wednesday August 8th, 2001 10:57:37 AM
Kenisha grins back at Flat-top and mouths, "We were right." silently to him.
Aloud she asks the satyr, "Could you hold off leaving for a bit? We have need to travel to Lankmar at great haste, but first some of us need to go to yon isle." She points to Heartskeep Isle.
Leets Wednesday August 8th, 2001 4:49:08 PM
"Greetings Sargasso!" Says Leets walking to the satyr "You really arrive just when needed! The fact is that we were planning a trip to Lankhmar, maybe we can travel all together?"
Raorr The Minotaur Wednesday August 8th, 2001 6:33:13 PM
Raorr looks at the arrow on the ground. And feels Kalon's hand on his arm. Raorr turns to him, "I believe my path can take a small detour for now. But I'm getting this feeling that LAnkmar is not going to a a picnic after all."
Raorr begins walking back to the group shaking his head "Sargasso, My patience is about as thin as your faries wings, Our God says a tune must be played before the gate to Lankmar is opened for us. I suggest you start piping up a tune soon before my personal storm of fury arrives as quickly as Domi's Storm left."
OOC: Sorry about seeming rude there but Raorr's still only got a 5 Charisma :). Are we gonna rethink leadership soon? I beleive Thiel's sorta not an option anymore...
Zeoll Wednesday August 8th, 2001 11:52:27 PM
After the divine display, it is clear to everyone that we are meant to follow the satyr to this city. But to Zeoll, who has been quietly observing, it reveals more.
To the others of the Chosen, Zeoll says, "Glorrious is Tomi! Subtle is Imod! Dirrect is Domi! I must admit that I did know why we werre sent on the mission to save the wine, as it seemed not a grreat matterr. But now I believe that in saving the wine, ourr god was also prreparring events that would brring us to the next stage of ourr jourrney, as we see herre!"
Zeoll says to Sargasso, "We would be glad of yourr guidance to the city of which you speak. Ourr divine purrpose leads us therre. I hope you will agrree to show us the way."
"And Sargasso, please, tell us of Lankhmar."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday August 9th, 2001 12:37:08 AM
Glancing over at Kenisha he wanders over to where she is standing and whispers,"I have no need of going to the keep for all that is important to me is with me." he blushes and then sits down beginning to groom himself after the drenching.
Back Together(dm sam) Thursday August 9th, 2001 8:25:51 AM
Sargasso frowns a bit at Raorr's words, buthe chooses not to say anything to the wet minotaur. then, answering everyone's offers to travel with him, he says, "Oh, I dont actually live in Lankhmar. I live in a little glenn about 10 miles south of the great city. And im sorry, but I have to leave today. Im already three days late, and the misses is going to have my hide!" Sargasso roars, followed by laughter. "But I can show you how to get to Lankhmar. I go there now and then, but its a bit too rough for me. Lots of different races and religious beliefs there, and they are all in competition there, though the Thieves Guild there is the strongest. Plus, magic isnt entirely stable there, ive seen some weird things happen. But, follow me to the portal and ill show you how to use it." the satyre says and begins to skip into the woods
Kale Thursday August 9th, 2001 8:27:40 AM
Kale follows the satyre, but says to himself, "Im not skipping."
Leets Thursday August 9th, 2001 9:58:29 AM
"The 'thieves guild'?!?!?" Says Leets while following Sargasso "What kind of city is this? They let thieves organize guilds? And what else? I wonder why Domi didn't sent us there more quickly, there must be much to do..."
Flat-top Thursday August 9th, 2001 10:00:05 AM
Flat-top has this weird look on his face,"Skip? Skip?"Flat-top,tell Kale "I don't know if I can do that?" then Flat-top jumps froward whith all four hooves off the ground, then turn back at the party, "I'm not skipping either, I'll just trot." with a shake of his head,trots off after Sargasso.
Kenisha Thursday August 9th, 2001 10:46:20 AM
Laughing, Kenisha tries to follow Sargasso's lead, but ends up tripping herself half the time. Still she keeps trying and eventually gets it down.
"Come on you guys! I remember trotting like this when I was a wee foal. Give it a go."
Zeoll Thursday August 9th, 2001 3:16:46 PM
Zeoll wonders to himself, "Did the satyr say, 'Walk this way'? I don't think he did!"
The wemic follows the group, moving normally.
Ceira Karwyn Thursday August 9th, 2001 3:55:01 PM
"This skipping thing sounds too silly. I'll just stick with the normal walking." says Ceira.
"Sargasso, you said that there would be a lot of different races. Do you mean various Taurs or various humanoids?"
Kalon the Wemic Thursday August 9th, 2001 9:28:40 PM
Kalon follows the group.
Raorr The Minotaur Thursday August 9th, 2001 11:41:28 PM
Raorr watches the satyr suspiciously.
He says to no one in particular " Finnally a place of constant conflict. And where magic is less powerful. Great place for a fight I think."
RAorr calls to Leets "If you need to stop theives guilds why not see if any of our companions might know something about them. I'm sure someone here knows something about them" Raorr continues "Besides Human cities are all for criminal activites, many actually think there is some romantic ideas taht spring from commiting crimes. Utter foolishness, but what can you expect from those manipulative apes?"
Skipping Along(dm sam) Friday August 10th, 2001 3:57:48 AM
"Oh, there are centaurs and minotaurs in Lankhmar, among others. Its a pretty open city, as long as you obey its laws." Sargasso says to Ceria as he continues to skip along. then he says "If you move like me, we'll get there alot quicker."
Kale Friday August 10th, 2001 3:58:41 AM
"Im in no hurry." Kale says to Sargasso
Leets Friday August 10th, 2001 5:18:47 AM
"I was hoping that no one among us would have dealt with this kind of people Raorr, although it depends on the way you deal with them of course..."
Leets looks around to see who's there, and tries not to lose Sargasso at the same time.
"Did anyone of you ever met somebody from this 'thieves guild' or another one? Perhaps the ones we arrested knew something...It's a pity they didn't talk, we would have known what to do once in Lankhmar...So anyway, does anybody among you my friends knows something about those corporated criminals?"
Zeoll Friday August 10th, 2001 8:39:08 AM
Zeoll speaks as he continues to follow the group where Sargasso leads.
Answering the question about thieves, Zeoll says, "Among my clan therre arre no thieves, because we have little to steal, and because we must worrk togetherr just to stay alive. Alas, even so, many arre slain by the Hell Hounds that plague us. I prray Tomi will send us some day to my home land in orrderr to hunt down those fiends."
"But no, I know little of Guilds of Thieves. I once had a humanoid barrd frriend, who taught me songs and the drrums, but whateverr he sang about these Guilds of Thieves eludes me now."
Turning to Leets, Zeoll praises the paladin's enthusiasm. "I am glad to see in you the strrong desirre to do Domi's will. I hope he will make morre clearr the Taurr business that he intends for us in the Human city. He has led us well already, and I suspect will do so again."
Flat-top Friday August 10th, 2001 10:49:31 AM
Flat-top gallop every once in a while and tries a little skip on and then. When nobody was looking. "If Kenisha, a mer filly, can do it so can I." And almost falling every once in a while.
Raorr The Minotaur Friday August 10th, 2001 4:32:09 PM
"The message domi sent said nothing about Skiiping it said to play a song. Now Satyr, talk less, and play the song, If I don't hear music soon I will show you how a minotaur plays a 'satyr's windpipe'." RAorr seems really iritated right now. Raorr walks up to Kalon and says quietly "I'm getting tired of these childish games were being forced to play aren't you? So how goes your moves on Kenisha? Any nibbles or is she ignoring your advances?"
Ceira Karwyn Friday August 10th, 2001 7:12:41 PM
Ceira just trots along with the group listening to the chatter that is going on around her.
Kalon the Wemic Friday August 10th, 2001 10:02:50 PM
Kalon feels a blush cross hsi face and he thanks Tomi he has fur to conceal it. Then with a smile he looks at Raorr,"Well enough I suppose I think she missed what I was refering to last time. Yet this is very new to me" he glances toward Kenisha,"She is quite beautiful though" then glancing at Raorr,"Well at least to me" he adds.
"How about you Raorr is there anyone special in your life?"
Kenisha Friday August 10th, 2001 11:53:17 PM
Kenisha mutters, "Party-pooper" to herself after Raorr growls at the satyr.
Aloud she simply says, "Now Raorr, I'm sure the gate will not open unless we are at the appropriate location. Once we are there, I'm sure Sargasso will play the tune."
While she doesn't hear what they are saying to one another, Kenisha does note the wemic and minotaur talking together and she smiles.
Getting Mad(dm sam) Monday August 13th, 2001 9:54:57 AM
at Raorr's words, Sargasso stops moving. frowning, he says, "Go play your own song, grouch. If all you can do is threaten me, then get someone else to help you. Im out of here." then without another word, he moves further into the woods
Kale Monday August 13th, 2001 9:58:27 AM
Kale, seeing the satyre move away, moves after him as quickly as he can
Kenisha Monday August 13th, 2001 11:14:32 AM
Kenisha gives Raorr a stern look. "You may wish to apologize for your rudeness, lest he not show us the way."
With that she hurries to follow after Sargasso. "Friend satyr!" she calls out to Sargasso, "Pray do not let the darkness of one to cloud your impressions of all of us."
Leets Monday August 13th, 2001 11:20:21 AM
"Raorr my friend, try to manage your word a little bit more, or I may both lose the only chance of my life of seeing again a grig and try to stop a thieves guild - and don't do that grin, try to follow the satyr instead!"
just after those words, Leets galops after the satyr in a hurry not to lose him.
Flat-top Monday August 13th, 2001 11:38:38 AM
"Now you went and done it, Raorr. And I hope when you two do fight, that Kale beats your tail into a knot!" said Flat-top. Then he brakes into a fast gallop. "Friend Sargasso, WAIT! I'm a soldier not a musician."
Zeoll Monday August 13th, 2001 5:32:26 PM
The wemic priest looks at Raorr, shrugs, and follows after the group.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday August 14th, 2001 12:55:51 AM
Kalon watches the group as they hurry after the satyr shaking his head,"I fear they do not even begin to comprehend you" then clapping Raorr upon his back,"And either you understand them completely or not at all I haven't decided which it is. Our god has a plan but it is up to us to decide to follow it."
Kalon begins to follow the group then turns to look back at Raorr,"Come along Raorr a whole new city awaits for you to insult, challenge, threaten and maybe beat upon. At least there will be some thieves for you to accost. Let us get the travel with the satyr done and over with."
Turning he catches up to the group.
Friends Again(dm sam) Tuesday August 14th, 2001 6:45:11 AM
after hearing everyone's apologies, Sargasso stops moving for a second and smiles. "Well, let it never be said that Sargasso isnt the forgiving sort. Follow me, the portal is just around that tree." then, moving quickly, he moves past the tree. once everone catches up with him, they see a stone archway with runes etched all over it, with ive twisting up and down it. "Its pretty easy to use. You play the tune, then you walk in. That reminds me, would you all rather sing the song or play it? Once you choose, thats the only way you can activate the portal."
Kale Tuesday August 14th, 2001 6:46:07 AM
"Ill sing, satyre." Kale says. "What's the song?"
Leets d20+2=7 d20+3=6 Tuesday August 14th, 2001 7:13:28 AM
"That's a pretty long time, but I think I can play it!"
Leets picks up a piece of reed near the water pool and begins piercing it to make a pipe (rolled a 7).
"I was used to make this in the evening when I was keeping sheeps...I did this one quite quickly, I don't know if it will work..."
Leets blows into his pipe, trying to play something...(rolled a 6 LOL) A high-pitched, irregular sound suddenly bursts out of the reed pipe, and a couple of birds flees from a bush. Leets throws the pipe where it comes from, and smiles to the satyr.
"Well...Hem...Would you have a pipe for me Sargasso?"
Zeoll d20+5=8 Tuesday August 14th, 2001 10:03:15 AM
Zeoll removes his drums from his kit. Those close to him hear a faint deep humming in his throat.
The liontaur bows to the satyr. "I would be honorred to learrn this song frrom you," he says. "I learrned chanting and drrums frrom a barrd who once visited my people, and I will do my best to play or sing, as you choose."
Zeoll does his best to perform the song well.
[OOC: That's my Perform check up there -- alas, not as good as I might have hoped!]
Flat-top Tuesday August 14th, 2001 10:44:45 AM
"Well, the last time I sang was at the keep and you all like it."Said Flat-top, " I'll be glad to learn the tune and Kale, Kenisha, Ceira and I, will do a quartet." So Flat-top clears his throat, "Me -- me -- do -- Rae -- me -- fa -- So -- la -- ti -- Do -- Do -- Do. All set."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday August 14th, 2001 1:16:23 PM
"Ahem... do we ALL have to sing?" Ceira whines. "My voice isn't up to par so I may do more damage than help. Hee hee."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday August 14th, 2001 7:18:21 PM
Glancing behind to see if Raorr is coming he then waits patiently for the Satyr to begin.
Kenisha Tuesday August 14th, 2001 8:42:32 PM
Smiling Kenisha votes, "I'm for singing it, I don't know how to play any mudical instruments."
Raorr the Minotaur d20-3=3 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 12:46:10 AM
"I always thought it was something about sewing that saved the Nine in Time!" Raorr says as he walks up around the tree. Noting the taurs still upset at him "My methods may not be nice but they have joined you all to a single goal, with a little more work I think the Taurs stand a chance in finally reuniting." He smiles broadly, "Oh well, If I must choose to sing or play an instrument, I will have to sing, My faults are mostly vocal but training in music was never soemthing I was taught."
"Come on Ceira a witch like yourself must have a beautiful voice if you can coax the Spirits Within to bend to your will"
Raorr walks up beside Kalon and says quietly "I fear sometime I don't know either my friend, I wonder sometims if it is actually me saying these things or someone else venting there own fustrations through me. Perhaps Domi wishes us to travel faster, or being the more wild one, my mind is easier to control. Either way I will follow this group, if only to save them from themselves, and from treacherous human theives."
OOC: Raorr will sing once the words are given (Unskilled Perform Roll 3), or perhaps not, there's always next time.
Singing Along(dm sam) Wednesday August 15th, 2001 6:13:46 AM
"Sorry, I dont have time to make you a set of pipes." Sargasso says to Leets. "Its a pretty simple tune. Just listen to what I sing, then try it yourself." Sargasso clears his throat, then sings...
"Geepers, Creepers where did you get those peepers where did you get those eyes where did you get those eyes"
then he says, "Pretty easy, huh, that song will take you to Lankhmar. Why dont you all give it a try?"(everyone make a spot check at DC10 to memorixe the song.)
Kale d20+1=18 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 6:15:19 AM
humming the tune Sargasso just sang, Kale pretty much nails the harmony on the head. "No sweat." he says
Zeoll d20+3=18 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 6:23:16 AM
The bard-wanna-be has no problem mastering the song.
Kenisha d20+3=12 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 9:26:09 AM
Kenisha tries her voice (and memory) to the song; getting the tune and words down correctly even if her voice is a bit weak.
Flat-top d20+1=16 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 10:10:11 AM
As Flat-top sings the song, his voice turns out to be a little bit above a bass. " I think I have it right? How did I do? I think I can remember that?"
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=10 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 10:35:11 AM
Trying to listen to Raorr at the same time as the satyr he manages to muddle through the song.
Leets d20=12 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 3:06:17 PM
The young paladin is a little bit disappointed not to have a pipe to play, but gladly imitates Sargasso when he sings the song.
"Pretty easy, and it sounds nice! Hey Taurs! All together now!"
Raorr The Minotaur d20-2=9 Wednesday August 15th, 2001 6:23:11 PM
Raorr once again shows his inability to do something simple and memorize a small tune. He tries to memorize it but it seems to come out like this. Raorr thought he had the song but instead of thinking of the words he went on his insticnts and bungled up the words... and in fact butchered a simple song. He roars out loudly:
"Geepers, Creeprs Your not my keeper Peepers, reapers Watch out or I'll rip out your eyes. Can't remember the lines though I try I hope we open the gate before I die"
After finishing he looks around the group "What, I say something wrong again?"
Song of Amusement(dm sam) Thursday August 16th, 2001 9:26:05 AM
hearing Raorr's attempt, Sargasso laughs out loud. "You almost have it. Try again."(make another check Raorr, same DC, but this time at an additional +2 since you have heard everyone else sing it.) once Raorr learns the song, Sargasso asks "Do you have any more questions?"
Kale Thursday August 16th, 2001 9:27:56 AM
Kale doesnt ask Sargasso a question, but he says, "I wonder if we have to leave now, or if we'll get a bit of a break before we go. I think we should take some time to outfit ourselves properly."
Flat-top Thursday August 16th, 2001 10:09:59 AM
Flat-top tries to fight back the snickers, trying not to get Raorr mad, "Naw! lets see what on the other side of the gate and what they have to offer. And beside you saw what happen to Raorr when he tried to go to the keep first?".
Zeoll Thursday August 16th, 2001 3:35:43 PM
"Indeed, Tomi has made his wishes known, and now we should follow them," Zeoll says, "Come, my frriends, prray forr his blessing and let us pass thrrough this gate."
Leets Thursday August 16th, 2001 4:45:34 PM
The young paladin puts his hand on his mouth to hide his giggling when hearing Raorr singing. He then has a slight cough, and tries to be serious.
"Tell me Sargasso, would we be transported to another place if we were singing another song?"
Raorr The Minotaur d20-1=6 Thursday August 16th, 2001 6:34:14 PM
"I'm telling you, I can't sing, my hears are tuned to the sounds of battle, cries for vengance and other more martial skills. It will take me a long time to learn this song. I can keep trying but it would not be me memorizing it. It would be me recting the words as you all sing. My voice would say the words but my soul would not mean the words. If this portal is magical then I must learn this song in an enviroment more comfartable to myself." Raorr says matter of factly.
RAorr thinks for a moment then says to the group "Perhaps Domi felt it was important for us to follow Sargasso so that he could show us the gate and the method of opening it." Raorr looks over to the Satyr "Did you not say you were in a hurry, Sargasso?" Turning back to the group "Perhaps Domi felt a few minutes spent learning the required steps to continue our journey was more important than gathering supplies first. Perhaps this shows us that Domi is not going to require us to leave immediately, perhaps some time is allowed for us to get better aquainted, and settle on going issues that are amongst the group's members. For example the mentioning of leadership and the like. I've not seen Theil in quite some time, perhaps he is waiting for us at the Keep."
With that Raorr starts to walk away back the way towards the Keep. He stops and turns back to the satyr "I still don't like you or what you did before but I am grateful for your assistance to Our quest. If you need Our assistance in the future We will assist you. And please don't let there be a next time, I suggest you learn to curb your own addictions, before someone else like myself loses control. I hear humans are less forgiving and less tolerant than even myself."
Kenisha Thursday August 16th, 2001 9:24:58 PM
Kenisha hides a grin behind her hand as Raorr tries to sing the song.
In respond to Raorr's thoughts on being able to go to the keep now, she nods. "I think you may be right. Now that we know the way, we could be able to take a little time to prepare. I am sure Tomi was just making sure we didn't miss Sargasso before he left- taking the knowledge of how to use the gate with him.
Kalon the Wemic Friday August 17th, 2001 1:42:40 AM
With a sigh Kalon sits down and waits for the group to decide where they are going. "We truly need to decide on a leader" he thinks to himself
Ceira Karwyn Friday August 17th, 2001 9:38:55 AM
*Rumble*
Ceira clutches her stomach and blushes. "Oops! Tee hee. I wouldn't mind going back home for some home-cooked food. Anyways, I think choosing a leader might be good."
Going Home?(dm sam) Friday August 17th, 2001 9:56:36 AM
"Yes, im in a hurry. Actually, I need to be leaving now. And yes, other songs will lead you to other places, but I dont really know but 2, and one of them leads me to my home, so dont ask for it." Sargasso says. then he nods to Raorr, then says, "Well, see ya all later!" and with that, he plays his pipes real quick and dissapears through the portal.
Kale Friday August 17th, 2001 9:57:31 AM
"Im for going home for a bit. If we arn't suppost to, Domi can throw another lightning bolt at us." Kale says
Flat-top Friday August 17th, 2001 10:56:39 AM
"Lighting Bolt?? Lighting Bolt?? Geee Kale! I like my tail the color it is, Not Burnt!" said Flat-top. "But a home cook meal sounds good to me and we do need time to teach Raorr the tune. Hmmm! O K let's go to the Keep, BUT who crosses the bridge first?" Flat-top turns and looks at Raorr.
Zeoll Friday August 17th, 2001 1:03:06 PM
Zeoll tries his best to memorize the music the satyr makes. Is it the tune he taught the taurs, or is it another tune? If it is another tune, could Zeoll replicate it? The liontaur impresses the notes into his mind as best he can.
Distracted, Zeoll does not realize at first that everyone is talking about heading for home, and about leaders. When he realizes it, he is surprized. He looks at his friends, one by one. "Did none of them hear his words?" he wonders to himself. Then he speaks aloud, slowly, with pauses, considering what he has to say.
"I know we all arre devoted to Domi," the priest begins, "And we know, as Chosen, ourr duty is to follow his will."
"So long as ourr consensus is strrong, so long as we all agrree on ourr path, we need no morrtal leaderr, because Imod is ourr leaderr. Thus has it been so farr in ourr laborrs."
"Moreover, when we have had discord, Tomi has shown us the way. So it was when some of us trried to go home a shorrt while ago. What need have we of leaderrs when Tomi will use lightning to guide us?"
"We need no leaderr. But if one of us is to be a leaderr, then I will follow. I am surre that Domi will corrrect the orrderrs of a leaderr if the leaderr strrays from Domi's will. Howeverr, I rreserrve the rright to act as Domi orrderrs, not as a leaderr orrderrs, if therre is a grreat contrradiction."
"And if I myself am chosen leaderr, then I will do my best to guide us to the correct path, but I will abide by the consensus of the Chosen, even as I do now, trusting Imod to tell us if we strray."
"Finally, I feel strrongly that Tomi wants us to use this gate now," Zeoll says, motioning to the gate, "but I do not object to going home, since I trrust Tomi to to alert us if we step on the incorrrect path."
Kenisha Saturday August 18th, 2001 12:03:07 AM
"Zeoll, I'm afraid I can't agree with your logic entirely." Kenisha replies shaking her head. "While it is true that we are the Chosen of Imod and therefore must obey his commands, I think we need to chose a leader from amongst our numbers. Even as there is a general in charge of all the army, each unit in that army must have it's own captain to lead them."
Kalon the Wemic Sunday August 19th, 2001 10:04:50 PM
Kalon listens quietly as each member speaks then he turns speaking mostly to Zeoll,"I too revere our great god and all his wisdom yet I think you are missing something. Certainly we should do our gods will but how are we to learn what we must if our god constantly throws bolts of lightning to show us we are doing wrong. If that is the case then why does he not throw bolts of lightning when others who embrace the old rivalries and hatreds fight one another. We have been set a task but we must find our own path. We must find a way to learn from within our hearts and how to teach that to others so they may understand. A leader is necessary amongst us to help lead us in a direction even if it is not the right one." he pauses moving closer to Zeoll,"Your love for our great god is evident but you should guard against your blindfaith. For that leads to prejudice, to the belief that others are not correct. It leads to divisiveness,to war and fighting. We must find our own path and not rely on Tomi to always guide us like lost children."
That said he moves toward Kenisha and stands beside her,"I agree we need a leader and we should decide now!"
Headed Home?(dm sam) Monday August 20th, 2001 5:16:20 AM
(hi all. posting may be a little slow this week. my fiance's uncle past away last night. sorry for any inconvience this may cause). the song Sargasso played was different from the one he taught the group, and Zoell realizes he'll have to be taught the song if he has any hopes in playing it again. the others stand around, wondering if they should go home or not
Kale Monday August 20th, 2001 5:17:26 AM
"We can vote for a leader, but lets do it at home. Im tired of standing around here." says Kale, then he begins to walk towards home
Zeoll Monday August 20th, 2001 8:53:47 AM
The wemic priest agrees with everyone else. "Cerrtainly," he says, "a discussion like this is a positive thing. It encourrages us to talk, sharre ideas, and then move forrwarrd."
Zeoll looks around and smiles. "Of courrse, if the grroup thinks a leaderr is a good idea, I am content as well. And as I said, I am happy to parrticipate. Do let us go home and discuss it."
He thinks aloud about a leader as the group walks back to the sacred invisible bridge to Hearthold Keep.
"Ceirra has the kindest soul, and a leaderr must use powerr with kindness ..."
"Flat-top is the brravest among us, and Imod values brravery in combat above all ..."
"Kale is thoughtful, and a leaderr should think beforre acting ..."
"Kalon does what he believes to be rright, no matterr what. We can trrust him, as leaderr, to be trrue ..."
"Kenisha is the wisest of us, and how can a leaderr lead without wisdom ..."
"Leets is humble and has the purrest hearrt. Good leaderrs think of otherrs beforre themselves ..."
"Rraorrr is strrong in will and spirrit. He would lead us without hesitation ..."
"And I ... I want us all to worrk togetherr. I hope I could encourrage us to do so."
"Trruly, selecting a leaderr frrom amomg Tomi's Chosen will not be a simple task."
Ceira Karwyn Monday August 20th, 2001 10:31:47 AM
"Oh my!" Ceira blushes at Zeoll's kind words. "I... I don't think... well, maybe but... no, I'm not fit for leadership. It would definitely have to be someone else." she giggles.
Flat-top Monday August 20th, 2001 12:26:31 PM
"Yes I agree with Zeoll, we should vote on a leader. But not here, I don't know about you, But I'm getting hungry and cold, let's go home." said Flat-top as he follows Kale over the bridge and on ward to the Keep.
Leets Monday August 20th, 2001 2:21:32 PM
The young Paladin looks at some of his fellows heading home, then glances at the sky.
"Wise and Mighty Domi, although I think you would prefer us to go to Lankhmar, I think we have much to do before. How would the member of a group go somewhere if they don't know who they are? Our group is like a young child, and has to find himself...Domi, in a way you are the father of this child...You may show him the way, but you have to let him chose how to go where you want..."
Leets follows the first ones who head to the keep, reciting the song not to forget it...
Kalon the Wemic Monday August 20th, 2001 7:30:03 PM
With a sigh and a glance skyward Kalon extends his hand toward Kenisha,"Would you care to walk back to the keep with me?" he pauses waiting for her response then adds,"Perhaps it will be less windy." he smiles.
Kenisha Monday August 20th, 2001 8:19:44 PM
Kenisha grins at Kalon and puts her hand in his. "That would be nice. Let's go see if we can make it across the bridge this time without a soaking." She giggles as they walk back.
Traveling(dm sam) Tuesday August 21st, 2001 4:59:44 AM
the chosen move onto the bridge without incident. no thunder. no rain. no lightning. once they cross the bridge the doors open up for them to enter Hearthold Keep.
Kale Tuesday August 21st, 2001 5:00:35 AM
once he enters his home Kale says. "Well, do we decide now, or do we rest a bit and think about it?"
Flat-top Tuesday August 21st, 2001 10:30:24 AM
"What I want to do first is to see the look on Raorr face when he meets Kular the Steward," said Flat-top, "then rest a little, a good meal and then we choose a leader."
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday August 21st, 2001 10:37:36 AM
Ceira lightly nudges Flat-top with her elbow. "Shhh! Not so loud." she whispers with a light giggle. "I'm curious to."
Leets Tuesday August 21st, 2001 2:54:48 PM
As he walks under the gate, Leets still look at the Keep as if he was seeing it for the first time.
"At least a place that no smuggler, or 'thieves guild' will have..."
Zeoll Tuesday August 21st, 2001 4:48:15 PM
[Darn -- my second time posting this today! My first post evidently didn't take!]
Zeoll is glad to be home, although he feels restless with Tomi's work undone. "Well, let us enterr in and spend the night. I suggest that we should meditate and talk among ourrselves. At ourr evening meal, those of us who think they should not be leaderr might take themselves out of the pool of possible leaderrs." [OOC: That could be tomorrow's post.]
"Afterr dinnerr, we might ponderr and converrse. I suggest that each of us visit the Once-Sunderred Hearrt to rreflect on ourr mission." [OOC: That could be Thursday's post.]
"Finally, in the morrning we can select ourr leaderr at brreakfast." [OOC: Friday and into early next week.]
"What do you all think, my fellow Chosen?"
Raorr The Minotaur Tuesday August 21st, 2001 7:44:17 PM
Raorr notes the rest of the group finally moved and caught up to him. "Took your time I see, well no harm in it I guess." He continues walking in unless stopped by someone.
Kenisha Tuesday August 21st, 2001 8:18:05 PM
Kenisha grins and winks at Kalon as they enter the keep. She calls out, "Kular! We have another Chosen in our midst! Come say hello if you please."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday August 21st, 2001 10:19:38 PM
Kalon looks at the great keep still feeling more then a little overwhelmed by it. "This is not where wemics were meant to be. Our home is the endless plains" he thinks to himself.
Continuing to hold Kenisha's hand he smiles back,"Perhaps after we clean up and have something to eat we could go for that run I suggested and talk about things as we run."
At Home(dm sam) Thursday August 23rd, 2001 8:30:31 AM
Kular appears and makes sure every one has something to eat and drink. once all the taurs eat, they realize how tired they are and soon drift off to sleep. after a good night's sleep, everyone begins to stir, feeling good and rested
Kale Thursday August 23rd, 2001 8:31:13 AM
"Kular, where are you? Im hungry!" Kale yells as he enters the main dining hall
Ceira Karwyn Thursday August 23rd, 2001 10:27:17 AM
Ceira stretches and is slow to get up but she eventually yields to the overwhelming aromas drifting from the kitchen. "Breakfast!" she says to herself as she goes to wash up and groom her thick mane.
Flat-top Thursday August 23rd, 2001 11:20:59 AM
After a good meal, Flat-top excuses himself and goes to the REUNITED HEART. There he stayed and looks at that beautiful Heart, after a while he whispered to the Heart,"Please, Domi, Help me choose a leader. One that can think of your intrest and can act when needed in your Great Plan for all Taurs. I see now that there are all kinds of Taurs and strange humans. But I know I'm not a leader, I'm a milatary centour and will fight for your will. Domi Please help me choose." After some time Flat-top slowly trots off to his room for a good night sleep. He dreams of two of the taurs in the party and in his sleep mumbles 'Thank you Domi'. In the morning Flat-top stirs to the smell of a fine big breackfast. He jumps, washes and comb his main and off to eat.
Leets Thursday August 23rd, 2001 1:52:15 PM
His choice beeing already made, Leets falls in a deep and dreamless night. This allows him to wake up early, and he then alternate sword practice and prayers for a couple of hours. However, he soon feels his tomach groaning, and smells the breakfast in the doorways of the keep.
*I know it's said that faith can feed one, but I think didn't go that far...I think it will be enough for this morning...*
Leets plunges his head in a water tub, and tries to look better before entering the kitchen.
Kenisha Thursday August 23rd, 2001 9:20:35 PM
Kenisha smiles at Kalon, "I would like that."
(ooc- Do you want to do the run through e-mail? It would keep things flowing better here in the board)
In the morning, Kenisha meditates in front of the Reunited Heart for an hour before joining the others in breaking her fast.
"Good morn, fellow taurs. Did you all rest well?"
Raorr the Minotaur Thursday August 23rd, 2001 11:54:23 PM
Raorr wanders around aimlessly as he explores the place, he talks with Zeoll and after Zeoll leaves Raorr finds a wall and repeatedly smashes his fist into it. While he wanders around he finally enters a room and notices a bag with a sign on it. He looks at the sign and opens the bag. Looking inside he sees some equipment he purchased, a little while ago and takes them out and equips himself. After doing so he looks again at the sign and becomes angry. "Stupid Humans" He yells loudly, "I can't read, why leave a stupid sign"
Raorr leaves some of his gear in the room and continues wandering aimlessly, once he feels tirees he returns to the room and sleeps.
In the morning he arrives eventually in the room where the rest of the Taurs are and says sarcastically "Well I think I found a room for myself, thanks for showing me around, it's a nice place."
Raorr is now wearing a new set of armor, its a thick grey leather, possibly made from an exotic animal. it seems extremely well made, and fits Raorr like a glove. He also seems to be carrying a Greatsword, which also seems to be well crafted. Attached to his belt seems to be a burning torch which rests comfortably against his thigh, against his new armour in that area.
Zeoll Thursday August 23rd, 2001 11:59:50 PM
ON THE DAY OF ARRIVAL, Zeoll, like Flat-top, finds his way to the Healed Heart, and there prays for guidance. The wemic priest also searches out his comrades, and talks with them about selecting a leader.
[OOC: The following are the conversations that Zeoll has with everyone (except Kale). PLEASE note that these conversations are private, and that, in character, any particular PC only knows what was said to and by themself. And please forgive the great length of this post, but I think everyone had very interesting things to say, so I hope it is worthwhile.]
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Kenisha, perhaps at the Healed Heart.
Zeoll ------------------
"Kenisha, I think you would be an excellent leaderr, and I want to encourrage you in this. Of those with the most experrience, only you, me, Flat-top and Kale rremain who completed the Quest forr the Hearrt and actually hearrd the worrds of Domi. You did not help kill Kularr when he was in spectatorr forrm. You werre brrave in fighting the wine thieves. And most of all, I think that you command the most rrespect frrom all us Taurrs. Please do not withdrraw frrom the pool of those who may be leaderrs."
Kenisha ------------------
Kenisha spends a few thought filled moments before she answers Zeoll.
"To be chosen leader would be a great honor and responsibility, my friend. I will admit that my first thought was to withdraw from the pool. But I will not. But neither shall I pursue the honor with vigor. I do intend to inform the others, that if I am chosen to be the leader, that I will ask for council from the rest of our numbers. I am not a great warrior, so in matters of combat I will certainly need help."
She smiles at Zeoll, "I'm, not sure my answer is what you were hoping for, but it is one I have had to think about since the subject of a leader was first broached."
Zeoll ------------------
Zeoll smiles back but replies seriously, "Yourr humility and honesty become a leaderr, and so you confirrm, forr me, my own choice. And I want you to know that I plan to speak in favorr of you tomorrrow."
==============================================
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Ceira, perhaps in the kitchens having a snack. He speaks to her in their mother tongue.
Zeoll ------------------
"Ceira, I hope you will not mind if I ask you to consider supporting Kenisha as our leader. Of those with the most experience, only Kenisha, me, Flat-top and Kale remain who completed the Quest for the Heart and actually heard the words of Domi. When Domi tested us, before you joined the group, Domi sent Kular in Beholder-kin form to meet us. I do not think we were meant to kill Kular, but some of us did fight and kill him -- Kenisha was one of those who urged restraint. But she has also been brave in battle, as when we fought the wine thieves. She is patient, clever, and wise. And I think that of all of us, Kenisha commands the most respect from all us Taurs. I hope you will open your heart and share your thought with me."
Ceira ------------------
Ceira sits back and consider's Zeoll's proposal as she takes a bite out of an apple. "Yeou knouue..." she swallows with a loud gulp. "Excuse me. Sorry about that." she grins. "Ahem. Of the four you mentioned, I would choose either you or Kenisha. Although Leets' training as a paladin would certainly be a big factor, the typical stubborn paladin might do more harm than good. If you know what I mean."
"In my opinion, this leaves only you or Kenisha." She paces back and forth in the kitchen. "I honestly cannot decide between the two. I have judged both of your abilities both on the mental and physical battlefields in our adventures. If I had to choose... then it would be for racial preference. Don't let the others know I chose you because you're a fellow wemic." she gives Zeoll a sly wink.
Zeoll ------------------
Zeoll smiles when Ceira says that Kenisha and himself would both be good leaders. "Thank you for your high regard," he says, in wemic. "But I think there is more support for Kenisha generally among the Chosen, and I plan to encourage her."
Ceira ------------------
"Oh really?" she shrugs her shoulders. "Well, think of it this way. I would choose you. If you choose Kenisha, then that means you can use my vote for her as well. Besides, as you know, I could have gone either way."
[OOC: Yes, you may include my post in a type of 'summary' today. Make sure you include my final statement. :) ]
------------------
OOC: Zeoll has been talking (via e-mail) with most/all of the Chosen. Would you mind if I posted our conversation with the others I have had -- probably tomorrow? I would mention at the top that the conversations are FYI only -- individual characters don't know what was said in these private conversations.
OOC: Yes, you may include my post in a type of 'summary' today. Make sure you include my final statement. :)
==============================================
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Flat-top. He speaks to him in Taur.
Zeoll ------------------
"Flat-top, I hope you will not mind if I ask you to considerr supporrting Kenisha as ourr leaderr. She prroved herr wisdom and rrestrraint on the Quest of the Sunderred Hearrt. In fact, only fourr of us rremain who actually hearrd the worrds of Domi, so she is experrienced as well. But she has also been brrave in battle, as when we fought the wine thieves. She is patient, cleverr, and wise. And most imporrtantly, I think that of all of us, Kenisha commands the most rrespect frrom all us Taurrs. morre so than you, I, orr Kale. I hope you will open yourr hearrt and sharre yourr thought with me."
Flat-top ------------------
As Flat-top clop down the hall to his room, Zeoll approaches him. Flat-top listens to what he has to say, then in reply "Yes I agree with you, Kenisha is my first choice because of the very quality of which you mention. My second choice will be you, if need be. My reason is all most the same reason. AS for Kale, he's a good fighter, NO! NO! a great fighter in his own way, But not as a leader. I myself am a marine of the Order, I fight for Domi and the quest, but as a leader I would not know where to start. Kenisha first, you second and the others are much too young and inexperienced. That will be my vote, so go ahead and nominate her, Good Friend."
Zeoll ------------------
"Thank you forr yourr input and forr the compliment!"
==============================================
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Kale. He speaks to him in Taur.
"Kale, may I talk with you about the coming decision? I hope you will not mind if I ask you to considerr supporrting Kenisha as ourr leaderr. She prroved herr wisdom and rrestrraint on the Quest of the Sunderred Hearrt. In fact, only fourr of us rremain who actually hearrd the worrds of Domi, so she is experrienced as well. But she has also been brrave in battle, as when we fought the wine thieves. She is patient, cleverr, and wise. And most imporrtantly, I think that of all of us, Kenisha commands the most rrespect frrom all us Taurrs, morre so than you, I, orr Flat-top. I hope you will open yourr hearrt and sharre yourr thought with me."
==============================================
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Kalon. He speaks to him in their mother tongue.
Zeoll ------------------
"Kalon, may I talk with you about the coming decision? I know I do not have to tell you about Kenisha's many strengths, so I hope you will not mind if I ask you to lend your voice in support of her as leader. She proved her wisdom and restraint on the Quest of the Sundered Heart. Of those with the most experience, only Kenisha, me, Flat-top and Kale remain who completed the Quest for the Heart and actually heard the words of Domi. When Domi tested us, before you joined the group, Domi sent Kular in Beholder-kin form to meet us. I do not think we were meant to kill Kular, but some of us did fight and kill him -- Kenisha was one of those who urged restraint. But she has also been brave in battle, as when we fought the wine thieves. She is patient, clever, and wise. And most importantly, I think that of all of us, Kenisha commands the most respect from all us Taurs. I hope you will open your heart and share your thought with me."
Kalon ------------------
Kalon listens carefully to Zeoll as he discusses his points about Kenisha. With a glance toward Kenisha he smiles then turns back toward Zeoll,"I have seen the strength and wisdom within her since I first met her. I agree that she would make a fine leader and will support your idea when it is brought up."
That said he extends a clawed hand toward Zeoll in a gesture of friendship.
Zeoll ------------------
Zeoll takes his fellow wemic's hand and grasps it warmly. "Thank you for telling me what you think," he says.
==============================================
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Leets. He speaks to him in Taur.
Zeoll ------------------
"Leets, I hope you will not mind if I ask you to considerr supporrting Kenisha as ourr leaderr. Of those with the most experrience, only Kenisha, me, Flat-top and Kale rremain who completed the Quest forr the Hearrt and actually hearrd the worrds of Domi. When Domi tested us, beforre you joined the grroup, Domi sent Kularr in Beholderr-kin forrm to meet us. I do not think we werre meant to kill Kularr, but some of us did fight and kill him -- Kenisha was one of those who urrged rrestrraint. But she has also been brrave in battle, as when we fought the wine thieves. She is patient, cleverr, and wise. And I think that of all of us, Kenisha commands the most rrespect frrom all us Taurrs. I hope you will open yourr hearrt and sharre yourr thought with me."
Leets ------------------
Leets winks at Zeoll and smiles as he whispers:
"Don't worry Zeoll, I was also thinking of Kenisha. I won't pretend to be a leader, for I have barely ever lead something else than sheeps. Moreover, I feel like I left my hometown yesterday, and I still have to see more of this world before claiming anything..."
Leets nods forward.
"My Wemic friend, we'd better follow our fellows, or they'll wonder what we are ploting..."
Zeoll ------------------
"Fearr Not! My policy is to say nothing in prrivate that I would not also say aloud. And I hope to talk to all of us in turrn."
"Thank you forr sharring yourr thoughts with me. But do not sell yourrself too shorrt!"
Leets ------------------
"I perfectly know you wouldn't really conspirate, brave Zeoll! I just don't want to make our friends wait" ;)
==============================================
At some point, Zeoll privately approaches Raorr. He speaks to him in Taur.
Zeoll ----------
"I hope you will not mind if I ask you yourr opinion on the leaderr issue. Do you have anyone in mind? Who do you think would do the best job?"
Raorr ----------
"Well Zeoll, as you know, your actions in the fight with the smugglers were not fair, to your opponent. You attacked him unarmed from surprise. I don't hold your use of tactics however your attack was foolish and could have gotten you killed. I believe a more intelligent plan, and a plan a leader would have to consider was to allow the enemy to pass and follow them. Your skills in nature and its environ are suited better that way, if danger was actually a concern, like them having drawn weapons or began to sneak up on our group then would have been the opportune time to pounce." Raorr says flatly "This is why I won't support your position as leader."
Zeoll ----------
I apprreciate yourr openness and honesty. I think we must agrree to disagrree on this. I simply do not think that crriminals who defile my rreligion deserrve to be trreated fairrly. Still, what puzzles me, since we arre talking about it, is this: Although I declarred my intention to set an ambush -- by definition, a sudden attack with surrprise frrom hiding -- no one objected beforre the event, but only afterr the combat took place. Did I not make my intention clearr?
In any case, although I will do my best as leaderr if selected, I think I am not the candidate who would be the most acceptable to the grreatest parrt of the Chosen.
Raorr ----------
"I don't trust magic so neither of the witches, Kenisha or Ceira, are even considered, especially since they have no backbone and are afraid to stand up for any position. Wisdom is important but one must be willing to stand up even when wrong, never be afraid of your beliefs, they both seem to me in capable of that, they both are intimidated to easily."
Zeoll ----------
I hope that you will rreconsiderr yourr blanket opposition to a magic userr. Kenisha in parrticularr would make an excellent leaderr. She has been brrave in battle, but she has also shown thoughtfulness and rrestrraint when necessarry. I cannot point to even one episode in which she seemed intimidated to me. But I can point to many in which she was carreful and thoughtful in making decisions, and she has never judged others based on their race or occupation. Morreoverr, we Chosen arre individually strrong willed -- Kenisha has demonstrrated the kind of diplomacy a leaderr needs to keep us on trrack rratherr than at each otherr’s thrroats.
Raorr ----------
"Kale is too secretive and cares not for the group, his intentions are nothing more than personal gain, I would never support him because he lacks the ability to care for the whole instead of himself. IF a threat came to the group I believe he would be the first to leave, and the last to volunteer to die for the cause. A leader unable to sacrifice himself even to succeed in a the cause is not a worthy leader."
"Flat-Top, may say he is a soldier but as a soldier he needs orders to follow. At no point have I seen initiative from him. He supports Kale, however I'm afraid that support may in the long wrong be detrimental. As leader Flat-Top would listen to Kale and therefore endanger the group with Kale's selfish goals and motivations."
Zeoll ----------
I do not think that I sharre all these viewpoints, but I agrree that ourr leaderr should be courrageous and willing to die forr ourr cause.
Raorr ----------
"Leets... He may have potential, however he is too unworldly, I mean he lacks real life experience. I don't mean combat experience but as a Holy Warrior, his decisions are biased to faith. I don't mean that faith is bad however, relying on faith would be as bad as your suggestion initially to allow Domi to guide us along like a young calf on a string, it embarrassing and other than keeping unsafe, we never learn danger because we are never allowed to wander. This is why I hesitate to support him."
Zeoll ----------
Herre we agrree in larrge measure. I too think Leets might make a good leaderr, but I also agrree that he would prrofit frrom morre experrience.
Raorr ----------
"Kalon is neutral, and although he supports my decisions up to this point I believe it may be because he sees what I see in this group. That it lacks direction, and a forward momentum. His lack of confidence in his skills may exclude him from leadership, solely because a leader who second guesses himself is already defeated, and he needs no enemy to oppose him."
Zeoll ----------
I am not so surre that Kalon lacks the confidence a leaderr needs, but I think he too would be a betterr leaderr with more experrience.
Raorr ----------
"I guess this leaves me. Now, I have my outbursts and violent reactions, which may be disruptive, but I get things done whether or not it is approved of. I took out the leader of the group without killing him, because I realized he was important to our investigation. I got the witnesses to speak, and I got us to leave town. I found out Domi didn’t want us across the bridge at the time, I got Sargasso to finally show the group the way to use the gate. I get things done, I don't like waiting, I am not an elf -- I live only a short time, I want to get this unity thing done with so the voices will stop tormenting me. I want to live a normal life one day and if leading this group is the way to do it I will."
Raorr steps back and says "As for preferences of leader. After myself, I would say Leets and Kalon, but I can not say which I would rather have."
Zeoll ----------
You arre a Taur of strrong opinions, and as leaderr you would be forrceful and effective, so long as you lead with the consensus of the grroup. If you arre selected, I will follow you, and I hope you feel the same for whoever is picked.
----------
OOC: IF you want I have no problem with the group reading this, as it is a part of Raorr's thinking, and Raorr normally doesn't whisper his opinions about other people since he views it as rude.
OOC: Thanks! I’ve been talking with most everybody, so hopefully I’ll post these conversations later this evening.
IN THE NIGHT, Zeoll sleeps, as is his practice, out of doors. Aside from a tentcloth, no crafted roof has ever kept his dreams from reaching toward the stars.
IN THE MORNING
Zeoll wakes and meditates on his dreams, since he believes that there are hidden truths in the visions that come in the night.
He gets to breakfast and enjoys the meal. He praises Neima, the wemic chatelaine, for the excellent table she provides.
After breakfast, Zeoll speaks to his friends.
"I think that it is time to addrress the issue of our leaderr. If we arre rresolved that a leaderr is necessarry, then perrhaps now we should suggest those among us who we think would best exemplify the title."
He looks at each of the Chosen in turn, receptive to hearing what each has to say.
Kalon the Wemic Friday August 24th, 2001 12:20:35 AM
Kalon awakens feeling refreshed. The dreams drifting away as remeberances of the time he spent with Kenisha lingers in his mind and heart. Rolling to his feet he washes himself thoroughly and heads down to the main hall.
Arriving as Raorr makes his comment he steps up behind placing a hand on the big minotaurs shoulder,"I am sorry my friend I had a more pressing engagement" he glances toward Kenisha.
Feeling the strange armour on Raorr he adds,"Is this new? It looks very unusual. I will be happy to take you for a tour after we have eaten and conducted our business. I am surprised Kular didn't show you around" he looks around for the steward.
OOC: Sure Kenisha we can do it off the official board.
Zeoll (Breaking the rules by posting again!) Friday August 24th, 2001 6:42:37 AM
OOC: I'm sorry to break the rule and post twice in one day, but I wanted to add Kale's response to Zeoll. Sam, if you want to edit my post above to add the text below and delete this post, that would be great.
Kale ------------------
looking at Zeoll from his hood, Kale is silent for a few moments then says, "Kenisha is a good choice, though I think you are a better one. I've seen you talking with the others, and I'm assuming that your asking them the same thing. If the others support Kenisha, I will too, but if it comes to a choice between her and you, I'll choose you. We have had our differences, but your ability to smooth things over with everyone and get everyone on the same page is a rare gift and shouldn't be wasted."
Zeoll ------------------
The liontaur ducks his head. "Thank you verry much forr that," he says. "But I will still encourrage us to worrk as a team if I am not the leaderr. And I think Kenisha is a candidate who will appeal to everryone."
Voting(dm sam) Monday August 27th, 2001 9:28:43 AM
as Zeoll wanders around gathering everyone's opinions on who should be the leader, Kular walks up to him and asks "What are you doing? You seem to be kind of secerative today."
Kale Monday August 27th, 2001 9:30:36 AM
seeing that Kular wont respond to him, Kale moves into the kitchen and makes himself a sandwitch
Flat-top Monday August 27th, 2001 10:38:16 AM
"I prayed to Domi for guidance on who should lead us. All are so good at what you do, and that why we were all chosen. After prayer time, I was very tired so I went to my bedding and fell into a deep sleep. I had a dream of all of us lined up in a row and we were all facing the Heart. Then there was this light that covered Kenisha and the light blink ONCE. Then the light covered Zeoll and the light blink TWICE. I knew then that to me Domi Who to vote for. AND my first vote goes for Kenisha to be Leader and if for some reason that she cannot lead. Then my second vote goes to Zeoll. That's my votes." Said Flat-top, then as he is very hungry, sit down ask for seconds.
Zeoll Monday August 27th, 2001 10:57:51 AM
Meeting Kular and hearing his words, Zeoll pauses before answering. As he gathers his thoughts, he is stunned anew by Kular's form, and the embodiment of Domi's will that the wemic sees expressed thereby. Zeoll remembers Kular saying, "I am a combination of the three races present ... according to the God of War, this form is that of the original Taur, before the Sundering of legend."
He looks at Kular's centaurlike mane and tail. He considers Kular's minotaur head and torso. He notes that below the waist, Kular is very much like a wemic.
After a moment, Zeoll answers the Steward of HeartHold Keep. "Oh, I have no secrrets of my own, Serrvant of Tomi, and I have made no efforrt to hide my actions. Indeed, I am only doing what I urrge all of us Chosen to do. Forr you see, we have rresolved to select a leaderr, and I have urrged all of us to talk with each otherr so that we can rreach a consensus. I myself think that Kenisha would be the best choice, and I have explained why to my frriends. But no, I have not trried to be secrret. My prractice is to say nothing to one perrson that I would not also say to any other."
The next morning, at breakfast, Zeoll listens carefully to Flat-top and smiles when the centaur warrior mentions his name. He continues to listen to what others have to say. "I've talked enough," he thinks to himself, "and now I should close my mouth and open my ears!"
Leets Monday August 27th, 2001 2:49:26 PM
Leets moves a little bit quicker when seeing Kular, and puts his hand on his massive shoulder.
"Kular! Good to see you! As Zeoll told you, we are about to elect our leader..."
Leets looks around and considers all the taurs who are there.
"My friend, the question is to know how we will proceed...I've seen some dried beans in the kitchen, perhaps we can put a reversed bowl for each of us on the table, and every one will enter alone and put his bean under the bowl of the one he chose...What do you think of it?"
Raorr the Minotaur Monday August 27th, 2001 7:40:33 PM
Raorr looks at Flat-Top and chuckles upon hearing his reason for voting Kenisha, and Zeoll. "You allow a dream to tell you who to vote for. That is almost a cooincidence as my sleep last night clarified my choice." Raorr shakes his head "No offense but if your going to vote based on a dream, then I should tell you about mine, it doesn't involve blinking lights or lining up this group, my dream, which until last night was more a nightmare than a dream. I have had for a long time, it is horrific and bloody, and at the core of it is the three taur races in constant battle with each other. I try not to describe it as details are gritty and not suitable for mealtime. Thep oint is until the day I met you all, I alone was the last survivor of the great battles, death every where, no one attacked me, and I was never able to appraoch any combatant, because everytime I did they died before I reached them. The day I met you all, was the first time that I saw another person there, the person look similar to Kular here" Raorr motions to Kular, the divine collage of Taurs. "My first belief was actually to believe it was Imod finally going to tell me why I was cursed with the nightmares I endure every night." Raorr grabs a leg of meat and rips a piece off, then continues while chewing "Of course the being told me that I was to go with with the group I would soon meet. I thought that was the only reason, until I spoke with Zeoll and our private conversation that I realized what the dreams were. I have determined that my nightmares have not been a curse they have been my tutor, my teacher and mentor to show me how to lead. The nightmares show me battle after battle, each time the races slaughtered each other, I remained the only one standing, at first I believed I was just an observer, but now after last night I have realized something" Raorr looks around at the group seeing if he's gotten anyone's attention "I could have stopped the battles if I had tried to stop them, I realize that my inner rage is fustration at believing I could not stop the battles from occuring over and over. I realize now that I was meant to stop the further bloodshed between our people, and becasue of that I must make the first step in stopping it." Raorr stands up and looks at Kale, "My call for Kayleb, although legitimate and deserving, is withdrawn. I forgive your insults to me, and my honor. I do this because I believe that I would be lose my temper in a battle with you and kill you. Imod has chosen you and although I may not like his choice, I must accept it." Raorr looks over to Kenisha and Ceira "I have treated you both with contempt, solely based on the gift Imod has given you, I can not fault you because of a birthright, you have used your gifts to continue the cause and have left your spells away from me, I now ask that you accept my appoligies." Raorr looks at Zeoll "You misunderstood my veiw point on the ambush scenario, I have no problem with an attack from surprise, it is both a sound tatical manuever and a method of causign fear to the enemy. My concern was that you sprung you ambush to soon, and that if you were more patient perhaps you could have been at a better advantage. As I recall you were severely injured because no one else was around at the time. If we were any slower you may have died. Again my appoligizes if you feel I belittled your plan, it was a good idea."
Raorr remians satnding "I do not believe in allowing others to do a Job I am not willing to do myself. I see a group before me that's individual talents are impressive, each of you have duties that require your attenions, and in our quest we need to be at the top of our game. Zeoll, Ceira, and Kenisha have their magics taht require time and diligence to remain at top form, leadership for any of them could interfere with their studies or practices. Flat-top and Leets have military training to maintain, on top of that Leets' dedication to Domi requires more effort, and leadership although a wise descision, would bring to him a moral dileiema, and his path must remain true and as a leader he may be forced to veer if he wants to succeed. I would not want him to lose his connection to Domi, nor do I think any of you would want him to either." Raorr pauses "Kale seems to best able to operate out of veiw and by that nature leadership would conflict drastically with his style." Raorr points to himself "This is why I beleive I'm here, to lead this group, I am not skilled in military tactics, nor do I desire it. Religion is not a intrest, merely a accepted truth. I study no magics, and I am far from being subtle. I am large, loud, and hard to ignore. I have already shown no fear, I know what must be done to suceed and get things done. I am not asking to be a spokesperson, leave that to Zeoll or Leets, but for real leadership I think I am the one you should chose to lead you."
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday August 28th, 2001 12:49:06 AM
Kalon sits quietly listening to first Flat-top and then to Raorr. He continues his thoughts about who he had felt were the correct choices would be. Waiting for Raorr to stop speaking he then clears his throat to get the group's attention.
"I to had dreams last night," he glances towards Kenisha,"however in none of them did I find Tomi guiding my path. Flat-top you are a fine warrior and brave but you are a good soldier trained to follow instructions so you are not my choice. Ceira I do not believe you truly would want to be leader and therefore would not make a good choice. Kale is best to do what Kale does best and that is more readily done by not being at the center of all things as a leader must. I know little of tactics but I agree with Raorr's ideas about Zeoll and his ambush. I also have the worry that you are to deeply devoted to our lord and god. I believe we as a group must stand on our own to feet. Finally about Zeoll I believe he can best serve our group as Kale does and this as well removes him from the leadership in my eyes. Leets would make a fine leader but I feel his "crusading" instincts and his heart of goodness and compassion would lead the group away from the goal to often." glancing at Raorr he continues,"Raorr you are a fine man brave and true but your nature is such that you are erratic. Perhaps you could one day be a fine leader but right now I do not believe you have the trust of the group or the ability to control your violent urges. We will not reach our goal through violence. Compassion, strength, resolution and understanding of all the differences of our peoples are the most important."
Taking a breath he looks at Kenisha,"My vote is for Kenisha. She has shown strength and courage in danger but she has also shown forsight and wisdom. She can control her emotions and can be counted on to do what is necessary. Finally though she is devoted to our great god she is not controlled by him as Zeoll seems to be"
"Furthermore I think Raorr should be battle leader for that is where the strength in him lies. Not just physically but I feel the strength of his soul as well. As for who should be second in command should something befall Kenisha I am unsure who I would pick" his opinion stated he again sits quietly.
Kenisha Tuesday August 28th, 2001 1:44:46 AM
When Kenisha speaks, it is with a soft but carrying tone. To Zeoll she says, "As I told you last night, I will remain in the running for the position of leader." To Leets she nods, "A secret vote is a very good idea and one I think we should adopt." To Raorr she say, "I accept your apology, friend taur. We all have our talents to lend to the group and wise is the taur that accepts that truth." She blushes at Kalon's words but says, "I could agree to to the idea of a battle leader so long as it is agreed that the leader of the group determines when we go into battle if there is a choice. But the idea is sound, especially if they can rally us in battle and direct us to where our efforts can have the best effect in winning the day." Then she addresses the other two taurs who haven't spoken up yet, "Kale, Ceira? Do either of you with to try for the position of leader?"
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday August 28th, 2001 10:59:09 AM
Ceira lets out a sigh, "Kalon is correct in his judgement. I am not fit to be anyone's leader nor do I aspire to be... ever. I grew up quite humble and wish to remain as so. I have yet many other personal issues to rectify before even being qualified as a leader. Raorr, worry not my friend for your apologies are well received and I thank you. You are also correct in saying that I will be intensely focused on my training in the arcane arts. I would be too distracted by my own interests and not on the overall interests of the group.
A leader is one who is capable of communicating freely among the group. Someone who can organize and collaborate ideas. As you all know by now, Zeoll has been meeting with us to collaborate our decisions. Thus Zeoll has my primary vote as leader.
Again, I agree with Kalon by suggesting that Raorr handle our military affairs. We have not had the opportunity to judge your tactical capabilities but by reading the confidence in your voice, I have no doubt they would be sound tactics indeed.
Zeoll, I apologize for having to continue beating a dead centaur..." Ceira coughs quite loudly. "AHEM, I mean a dead horse... but Raorr is right when he says that your ambush was a bit too abrupt when you could have planned it better. However, off the battlefield, you have proven to me that you are very capable in how to be a good 'leader' in the true sense of the word. Overall, we will be put in more diplomatic situations than battle scenarios. Probably on a 75-25 aspect ratio. Plus, you are also guided by our god and there is nothing wrong with that.
Now, we could certainly proceed with the secret vote but a few of us have already voiced our opinions. The rest of your unannounced votes can be the final factor in deciding who gets to be our leader."
Kalon TheWemic Wednesday August 29th, 2001 12:16:20 AM
Kalon sits quietly listening to the others speak their intentions.
Still choosing(dm sam) Wednesday August 29th, 2001 10:11:24 AM
(sorry about not posting yesterday. real life caught up to me) Kular says "It is good to see all of you again, and to see you for the first time." he says to Raorr, winking at him. "I know you are voting on a leader, but remember this: Imod chose all of you for a reason. Your leader should be the one who can best reconize all of your strengths and weaknesses." then the minotaur moves to the kitchen to get more refreshments.
Kale Wednesday August 29th, 2001 10:13:45 AM
Kale nods his head at Raorr, then turns to everyone. "Zeoll is the proper choice. We only need one leader, not two or three."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday August 29th, 2001 11:26:20 AM
Looking at Kale he says,"The burden of leadership is a great one I believe it is necessary for the leader to have someone they can discuss things with apart from the group. As well the leader who is fine in diplomacy is not necessarily fine in war. As for a secret ballot I see no reason we cannot just continue to speak our choices aloud as five of us have done already."
Flat-top Wednesday August 29th, 2001 11:36:59 AM
"Good choice, Kale, Zeoll is a good choice. "said Flat-top. "As for you Raorr, you never saw Domi face to face. And you scoff at my dream, well you can do just that and all of you can do that too. But I was bless to see Domi's face and if He shows me what he want in a dream. So be it, I will not change my vote." Flat-top stand erect with arms cross on his chest.
Leets Wednesday August 29th, 2001 12:03:50 PM
"Kalon? Do you mean we made our way back here to finally decide we didn't need a leader? Do I have to remember you that Domi himself wanted us to go elsewhere? My choice is made, and to my mind it's now time to vote once for all."
Leets makes one step in the direction of the kitchen.
"All I have to say about me is that I don't feel ready to lead you. Moreover as I wouldn't hesitate to risk my life for my quest, I fear I would risk yours by beeing your leader, and I don't want that. I also narrowly follow the way Domi drew for us, and the simple fact of us beeing here show us that I wouldn't be followed bu everybody."
Leets disappears for a couple of minutes, and comes back with eight wooden bowls and a handful of dried beans. He puts the bowls upside down on the kitchen table, and gives a dried bean to everybody here. There are taur letters carved on the bowls: FT KALON KALE KENISHA R C Z L
"If everybody agrees, we will go outside the kitchen, and come back one by one to vote"
The young Paladin opens the door, and waits outside.
Raorr the Minotaur Wednesday August 29th, 2001 7:47:35 PM
Raorr looks at the bean and the bowls, he gets up and walks over to Kalon and says quietly, in a joking tone "I don't think this bean will be enough to feed me, mind if I have yours?" Raorr looks at the bowls again and asks Kalon "So what's with the bowls? ANything important with the carvings?"
Kenisha Wednesday August 29th, 2001 8:25:51 PM
Kenisha smiles at Raorr. "Leets has put either the initials or the full name of all of us on these bowls."
She points to each bowl in turn and tells him the name that goes with each. "Flat-Top, Kalon, Kale, Kenisha, Raorr, Ceira, Zeoll, and Leets."
With that she leaves the room and waits for her turn to vote.
(ooc- Shall we e-mail Sam privately with our votes? )
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday August 29th, 2001 10:08:36 PM
"Well. We might as well get on with it. We are currently deciding on who should be our leader. Let's not waste more effort on figuring out what method to utilize. Since Leets has taken the initiative and set up this balloting system, we should get this done and over with." She proceeds to follow Kenisha as she leaves the room and waits for her own turn.
Zeoll Wednesday August 29th, 2001 10:23:50 PM
Zeoll looks carefully at each bowl in turn. "I, too, must memorrize whose bowl is which. These letterrs befuddle me."
He memorizes the bowl positions and leaves the room. When it is his turn, he votes.
[OOC: I'll send e-mail to Sam at SamsandMaries@aol.com.]
Voting(dm sam) Thursday August 30th, 2001 9:44:08 AM
(for the vote, you can either email me at SamsandMaries@aol.com or you can do it in a private post) "Dont make too much of a mess in there" Kular tells everyone as they make their way into the kitchen one at a time
Kale Thursday August 30th, 2001 9:45:30 AM
Kale picks up a bean and moves into the kitchen. after only a moment, he comes back out. "Next."
Ceira Karwyn Thursday August 30th, 2001 10:03:29 AM
Ceira walks in and places a bean under one of the bowls. She proceeds to leave the room as the next taur steps up.
Kenisha Thursday August 30th, 2001 11:11:26 AM
Kenisha tosses her bean up in the air and catches it before moving into to the room and casting her vote. She returns with a smile on her face. "Next."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday August 30th, 2001 11:43:17 AM
Kalon confused by Leet's statement to him watches in further confusion as the voting is done a second time,"Why is it necessary to have some kind of secret vote. I have already stated my vote and it will not change because it is in secret. If we cannot discuss things openly then there will be no hope for this fellowship." he shakes his head and takes his bean to Kenisha,"You have my vote as I said before. As Zeoll said I will do what I think is right no matter what and secrecy has no place amongst us if we are to learn trust" he hands it to Kenisha
Flat-top Thursday August 30th, 2001 1:04:06 PM
It was Flat-top turn to vote, But unknown to the rest of the party, Flat-top had sneek innn Two Beans and was about to vote for Kenisha and Zeoll (because Domi told him to). But just before Flat-top votes, Kular suddenly appears from no where and says "NO Cheating." Then smiles and takes one of the beans from the centaur "That woulddn't be Kosher". Flat-top steps to the table and votes. Then He prays "Let it be your wish, Domi. OH! by the way, Domi, What's a Kosher? A new Taur?" he mumbles to himself.
(ooc: our e-mail was to good to pass up, hope you don't mind)
Zeoll Thursday August 30th, 2001 1:08:26 PM
Zeoll, who has already cast his vote, nonetheless agrees with Kalon.
"I also think," he says to Kalon, "that generrally secrrecy serrves no good purrpose. But if some of us arre morre comforrtable voting alone, then I see no dangerr in it. I, of courrse, have made no secrret of my prreferrence."
Turning to the entire group, he adds, "Arre we agrreed that the perrson with the most beans will be the leaderr? I think that if therre is a tie, then a rrun-off would be needed."
After a moment, the wemic smiles secretly to himself and thinks, "Now, it sure would be a funny joke if the last person piled all the beans under one bowl, or put one bean under each bowl! Or swallowed the beans! But later we could guess who it was who ate them!"
Leets Thursday August 30th, 2001 2:34:03 PM
The young paladin nods at the comments concerning the secret vote.
"I think that keeping our votes secret will perhaps help some of us. As you probably noticed, some are hesitating, and being alone with yourself surely will help choosing, whereas an opened-talking vote may bring doubt...Moreover, some may feel ill-at-ease voting or not voting for somebody, so it's probably better for everyone..."
"I already voted, who's next?"
Raorr the Confused Minotaur Thursday August 30th, 2001 7:47:46 PM
Raorr follows the group out of the dining room and into the kitchen. After every one votes, Raorr shakes his head walks up to his bowl and picks it up placing the bean on the table under it. He filps the bowl to look inside and stares at the symbol carved in the bowl. He suddenly feels depressed relizing what is goinf to happen with the voting, he looks at the single bean he placed on the table and back at the bowl he shrugs and takes the bowl off the table, leaving behind anything that was under it. He holds the bowl looking at it from various angles watching the way the light and shadow play in the bowl. He mumbles something to himself and walks back into the kitchen, with the bowl in his hand.
Raorr smiles meekly "I'm done, I'm going to go for a walk outside, Once the new leader is ready I'll journeyt with you to Lankmar, until then I think I need to be alone"
Raorr walks out back into the dining room, and leaves.
A Leader
And the Winner Is...(dm sam) Monday September 3rd, 2001 8:01:56 AM
after everyone votes, Kular moves into the kitchen. after a moment, he comes out with Kenisha's bowl. it contains five beans. "It looks like your the winner." Kular says handing the bowl to Kenisha
Kale Monday September 3rd, 2001 8:02:42 AM
"Good luck." Kale says to Kenisha "You are probably going to need it."
Zeoll Monday September 3rd, 2001 8:19:24 AM
The liontaur priest smiles and offers his congratulations to Kenisha. "Tomi knows we arre a frractious lot, but I know we will rrally arround you!"
"So, do we leave today?"
Flat-top Monday September 3rd, 2001 12:08:19 PM
Flat-top extends his hand and then holds both of Kenisha's hand into his. "Congra - Cogreetu err Best whishes," Flat-top not being use to giving praises,"I know that Domi is very pleased." He whispers to her, then ask(so every body will hear,"Who is going after Raorr? Kale?"
Ceira Karwyn Monday September 3rd, 2001 12:18:55 PM
"That's great Kenisha!" Ceira walks over to shake her hand or hoof. "Under your guidance, we are sure to be in capable hands. Well, we should all get our things ready for the trip to Lankmar."
Kalon the Wemic Monday September 3rd, 2001 7:49:25 PM
Kalon reaches out and pats her gently on the shoulder,"I knew it would be you. Congratulations you will lead us well I am sure" then bows deeply to her and smiles
Kenisha Monday September 3rd, 2001 9:52:29 PM
Kenisha blushes deeply under all this praise. "Well um... yes. Thank you all. I'd say we should all get whatever we want to bring and meet back at the main doors. Kular? Could you pack some food for us that will travel well? Thank you."
Looking at everyone present she then adds, "I'll go get Raorr as I really don't have too much I need to prepare."
With that she will make her way outside and look for the minotaur.
Getting Ready (dm sam) Tuesday September 4th, 2001 9:40:44 AM
"Sure thing, boss," Kular says with a wink as he goes into the kitchen. Once she is outside, Kenisha finds Raorr sitting on the ground some ways from the castle, scribbling something in the dirt.
Kale Tuesday September 4th, 2001 9:42:10 AM
"Our leader has already left to go get him," Kale says to Flat-Top. Not needing to pack, Kale moves to the front door and leans against the left wall, waiting for everyone else.
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday September 4th, 2001 9:52:47 AM
Ceira runs into the kitchen and sneaks out with an apple in hand. "One for the road." she says to herself. She pauses and grins. "Better make it two." Ceira grabs another and proceeds to sneak out of the kitchen. She goes outside and waits at the foot of the bridge to enjoy the crisp morning air while devouring her first apple.
Flat-top Tuesday September 4th, 2001 10:50:45 AM
"Hey! Kular, last time we were in the rain I almost got a cold. Do you have an extra cape lying around and can I borrow it? Please!" ask Flat-top. Then trots to his chambers and pick up his back pack and shiels puts his Morning Star around his neck. Flat-top leaves his chamber and with a slow gate. will stand next to Kale. "I don't think that Raorr likes losing. I wonder what mood he'll be in."he tells Kale.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday September 4th, 2001 11:10:58 AM
With a quick check of his large bag he heads outside to await Kenisha and hopefully Raorr's return. Keeping an eye on their newly appointed leader from afar he hopes she can handle Raorr. However knowing the minotaur's quick temper he is ready for the worst.
Kenisha Tuesday September 4th, 2001 11:56:04 AM
Trotting up to the seated Minotaur, Kenisha tells him, "Voting done and I've been elected. I do hope you will help in counseling on matters of war and combat. As for now, we are getting ready for our trip through the gate. If you've got anything to get, do so now and meet us back at the main doors."
She turns to leave then turns back slightly to say, "If it makes you feel any better, I was hoping Zeoll would win." She then heads back to the keep and gets her things and returns to the doors.
Leets Tuesday September 4th, 2001 12:29:34 PM
"It looks like our boss has already decided. That's a good thing, Domi probably doesn't want us to stay here too long..."
The young Paladin goes to his room, and comes back a couple of minutes later, ready to leave.
Zeoll Tuesday September 4th, 2001 5:56:37 PM
Hearing Kenisha say that she is going to talk to Raorr makes the wemic priest smile. He feels even more confident that she is the right person for the job.
The wemic gathers his gear and prepares to depart. He meets everybody else at the main doors.
Raorr d20+3=21 Tuesday September 4th, 2001 7:37:59 PM
Raorr concentrates on his scribbles, beside the location where the lightning bolt struck the bridge. He tenses noticeably for a moment when he hears (Listen Check of 21) the approaching sounds of a Centaur. He looks over and sees Kenisha, and relaxes.
He listens to her words and nods.
When she's finished he stands up, placing a familiar looking bowl, an 'R' carved in it, into his one of his personal saddlebags. "Very well Kenisha, I will offer my help if you need it. The group is wise in choosing a more stable person, than I."
He begins to walk towards the group and then stops, turns around to Kenisha and approaches her.
He says quietly to her "Congratulations, Kenisha." He then offers to hug her. She probably notes a expression crosses his face, a combination of hesitation and awkwardness.
Leaving? (dm sam) Wednesday September 5th, 2001 9:48:28 AM
After everyone gathers their things they meet at the front of the castle. Just before they leave, Kular comes out with a big pack of food(a week's worth) and a cape. Tossing the cape to Flat-Top, he says, "Don't lose it." Then he waves goodbye and moves back into the castle.
Kale Wednesday September 5th, 2001 9:50:18 AM
"None of us like to loose." Kale says to Flat-Top. "But I seriously doubt he'll go against the voting." then he sees everyone gathered together, so he moves towards them and says "Are we ready?"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday September 5th, 2001 10:04:54 AM
"I'm ready!" Ceira yells from where she stands at the bridge. She casually takes another bite of her apple while waiting.
Flat-top Wednesday September 5th, 2001 11:15:21 AM
"Thank-you,Kular, I'll take very good care of it." Replied Flat-top as he puts the cape in his back pack. "I'm ready to leave," as kular brings the big basket of food, Flat-top ask, "who's going to carry the food? Not Ceira, she has her hands full with apples."
Leets Wednesday September 5th, 2001 12:19:27 PM
Leets patiently waits at the castle's gate, looking at the sky for any sign of Domi.
Zeoll Wednesday September 5th, 2001 5:19:10 PM
Zeoll thinks back over the group's recent adventures (and misadventures!). "What is it exactly that we seek in fabled Lankhmar?" he asks. "Let us rrememberr why Domi would send us therre."
[OOC: Lazy me! I guess I should go read up in the archives!]
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday September 5th, 2001 7:18:43 PM
Glancing at Zeoll Kalon says,"If Domi made his wishes known it was in the message told to Kale but I think that the easiest way to find out what lies ahead of us is to begin down that path." he then begins walking toward Kenisha. Happy to see that Raorr is not upset in his usual loud and physical way he trots up to her.
"Everybody seems ready to go Kenisha the next step of our quest can begin" he bows and sweeps his hand in the direction the bridge lays.
Kenisha Wednesday September 5th, 2001 10:23:29 PM
"Right, well then... lets be off, shall we?" Kenisha replies before starting towards the bridge.
Before passing Raorr, she whispers so only he can hear, "Do you know the words to the song we have to sing yet? If not you should try and review them."
Raorr the Confused Minotaur Thursday September 6th, 2001 1:14:24 AM
Raorr lowers his arms as Kenisha passes by him. The impression of hesitation gone from his face, now fully an expression of ackwardness.
Raorr follows Kenisha and then stops, and says. "Why travel there... This bridge to get over to gate, isn't it?" He point back to the bridge Raorr was sitting on.
He walks over to the hole in the ground and points at it. "Here lightning bolt hit. Kalon and Raorr nearly hurt by bright light."
He stops and waits.
Making Way(dm sam) Thursday September 6th, 2001 7:24:58 AM
everyone begins to travel towards the gate until Raorr calls everyone's attention to the lightning bolt crater
Kale Thursday September 6th, 2001 7:25:40 AM
"Im pretty sure we need to go back to Centaur Island and use the gate there." Kale says to Raorr
Kenisha Thursday September 6th, 2001 9:10:06 AM
Kenisha turns back to Raorr and says with a kind smile, "I think you've gotten turned around one too many times, friend. The gate is in Centaur Isle, not at Hearthold."
Zeoll Thursday September 6th, 2001 9:31:51 AM
Standing off to one side, Zeoll remembers the sacred poem. "Wander the streets with naught to see But this child with a prophecy. Infidels within must suffer their fate Whilst believers travel through a gate. Play the tune for the key to be found Then the Chosen will soon be Lankhmar-bound. Honor is all for a cause that's just, The truth will prevail, as it must..."
"Not too much there about about what to do when we arrive," Zeoll murmurs in his native tongue. "No doubt Tomi will show the way."
Ceira Karwyn Thursday September 6th, 2001 10:20:43 AM
"Ahh. Now that you have refreshed my memory, it seems that gate and the tune that Sargasso showed us has been spoken in his... prophecy. Well, let's not waste anymore time. Let's go!" says Ceira as she walks past the lightning bolt crater.
Flat-top Thursday September 6th, 2001 12:01:09 PM
"Hmmm! To travel to a gate, we have to play to open the gate, then we will be Lankmar BOUND, HONOR is for a cause that's JUST, TRUTH will prevail. Hmmm it sounds to me as if Domi wants us to sing or play to open that gate, then we won't be in Lankmar BUT on our way to Lankmar. What I don't understand is the part that goes 'Honor is for a cause that's just, Truth will prevail.'? "But if Domi want us to go there, that's where I'm going." Said Flat-top with his arms across his chest.
Raorr the Confused Minotaur Thursday September 6th, 2001 12:12:50 PM
OOC: Please explain to me then, how when we were on centaur island, an when I tried to cross I was on the bridge and the bolt of lightning struck in front of Raorr, while he was trying to cross to HEart hold keep. The Hoile Raorr is talking about is the hole on the BRidge to Centaur Island. So are you not suppose to cross that bridge? Or has the bridge changed locations on me? I had Raorr waiting by the bridge so he could join you guys when you crossed to go to the gate.
Please explain to me or send a map or something cause I'm getting more confused each turn since the player can't visualize the basic layout of the entire island setup.
Now for the Turn.
Raorr Runs back up to the grouphis old expression of concentration back on his face. "Go, Raorr catch up, if need be" He yells as he runs When he finally catches up "Raorr ready, hurry to gate."
Leets Thursday September 6th, 2001 3:52:07 PM
Leets was about to go ahead and follow Kenisha when he hears the questions about Lankhmar and the taur quest.
"I don't know for you, my friends, but I feel like there is a thieves guild waiting for me in Lankhmar..."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday September 6th, 2001 4:09:51 PM
Kalon listens to Leets,"Be careful about starting a fight with the Thieve's Guild. I have never seen one but I understand they can be very dangerous and they do not have the same sense of honor and fairness that you do." He then hurries across the bridge
Explinations(dm sam) Monday September 10th, 2001 9:12:59 AM
(the crater where the lightning bolt hit is near the entrance to the castle. it was sent so that those that crossed would realize that they needed to get to the portal on centaur island before Sargasso left) everyone continues to stand around the crater
Kale Monday September 10th, 2001 9:16:13 AM
"Domi didnt say why we are to go to Lankhmar, just that we are to go. I guess we'll find out when we get there."
Flat-top Monday September 10th, 2001 10:07:31 AM
"Well! If Domi want us to take the Gate on Center Ilse, we should take that that gate. But If we cannot open that gate, we can always try to open the one at the Vineard." What do we do now, Kenisha." Flat-top waits for an answer.
Kenisha Monday September 10th, 2001 11:17:27 AM
"I say we go back to Centaur Isle so we can go through the gate and find out what Imod has in mind for us there."
With that she heads to the bridge that leads back to Centaur Isle.
Zeoll Monday September 10th, 2001 12:44:38 PM
Zeoll follows along, crossing the bridge to Centaur Island and heading for the Musical Gate Sargasso showed the Chosen.
Leets Monday September 10th, 2001 3:01:29 PM
Leets follows the laeder and heads in the direction of the Centaur Island, to go back to the magical gate...
Ceira Karwyn Monday September 10th, 2001 3:28:12 PM
Ceira follows after Kenisha without much to say. She looks around for a raccoon and will lightly chuck her apple core so it can finish nibbling on it.
The Gate(dm sam) Tuesday September 11th, 2001 8:56:43 AM
at Kenisha's bidding, the party follows their new leader back onto Centaur Island. after about an hour they come to the gate in the middle of the forest.
Kale Tuesday September 11th, 2001 8:58:46 AM
"Well, I guess ill go first." Kale says. walking up to the gate, he sings, "Geepers, creepers, where did you get those eyes, where did you get those eyes." then he walks through the gate
Flat-top Tuesday September 11th, 2001 10:04:56 AM
Flat-top walks to the gate, then turns and ask "Raorr, Please come and stand next to me. I will show you how much you mean to all of us. Now repeat after me, 'Geepers (waits for a responds)Creepers (waits again) Where (waits)did you (waits) Get those (waits) EYES (waits) Where did (waits so Raorr to say it right) you get (waits) Those eyes, Now go ahead and walk through and I'll be right behind you." Flat-top think to himself ^ Domi! I hope I did it right.^ Then Flat-top follows Kale and Raorr into the gate.
Leets Tuesday September 11th, 2001 2:50:24 PM
"Geepers, creepers...."
Leets, following his fellows, sings the song, and walks through the gate, a little bit curious about how it feels...
Zeoll d20+5=19 Tuesday September 11th, 2001 7:39:33 PM
If Kenisha has no objection, Zeoll waits for Raorr to go through, with Flat-top's able example. If the minotaur has trouble, the liontaur will use his perform skill to help coach him through. [OOC: 19 above]
Then he will go through himself.
Kenisha Tuesday September 11th, 2001 9:38:47 PM
Kenisha will wait until everyone else as made it through successfully before she sings the song and steps through the gate. She'll gesture for everyone to go first and will give Raorr an incouraging smile.
Raorr Tuesday September 11th, 2001 10:54:10 PM
Raorr walks up and recites the song, although not pleasant he seems to have practiced it.
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday September 11th, 2001 11:04:36 PM
Kalon smiles at Kenisha,"See you on the other side." then he sings the song and steps through the gate.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday September 12th, 2001 12:23:35 AM
Ceira sings, "Geepers, creepers, where did you get those eyes, where did you get those eyes." and off she goes!
It Begins(dm sam) Wednesday September 12th, 2001 8:50:44 AM
one by one the Chosen step through the portal. as each of them enter, they see a sudden flash of light, blinding everyone momentarly. once their vision is cleared, they find themselves standing in the back of an alleyway, a arch similiar to the one back on Centaur Island carved into the wall on the back of the alley.(everyone make a spot check of 15 or better)
Kale d20+1=19 Wednesday September 12th, 2001 8:52:10 AM
Kale, though a little confused about what just happened, suddenly feels the hairs on the back of his neck stand up, as if somethings wrong
Flat-top d20+2=17 Wednesday September 12th, 2001 10:40:27 AM
Flat-top is blinded for about a second, when his eyes adjust he sees how still Kale is standing. Since he and Kale were chosen from the beginning and fought together, Flat-top knows something is up. Flat-top grab a hold of his Morning Star. Turns and indicate to Raorr to be quiet. Flat-top is on the alert and really look around.
Leets d20+2=3 Wednesday September 12th, 2001 11:53:32 AM
OOC: Hey, that's a botch, no? :)
Leets arrives just after Flat-Top, still blinded by the flash of light, perhaps just because he was more aware of what would happen during the "jump". Groping around, he bumps into Flat-Top's back, and hangs on Kale's armor.
"Hey my friends, where are you? Isn't there too much light in Lankhmar or is it me? Or maybe it's night? Hey? Where are you?"
Zeoll d20+4=23 Wednesday September 12th, 2001 3:45:33 PM
Zeoll lands softly, every nerve alert. He moves towards the entrance of the alley, ready for anything.
Raorr d20-2=6 d20-2=10 Wednesday September 12th, 2001 6:11:24 PM
Raorr steps though and closes his eyes after the light blinds him. In his head he curses Sargasso 'next time satyr, next watch out'. HE begins to clear his eyes and sees Flat top doping something with his morningstar, but through the spots in his eyes, he misses the gesture to remain quiet.
Kenisha d20+3=5 Wednesday September 12th, 2001 11:33:09 PM
Kenisha bumps into Ceira after stepping through the gate, her eyes still affected by the bright light. "Sorry. What's up?"
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=10 Thursday September 13th, 2001 1:14:03 AM
Kalon steps through and as his eyes begin to clear up from the bright flash looks back to see if Kenisha is okay. Failing to see anything else but her.
Noises(dm sam) d20=13 Thursday September 13th, 2001 9:31:06 AM
Kale, Flat-Top, and Zeoll hear some kind of yelling and screaming coming from the front of the alley. because of their companions, Kale and Flat-Top are not able to move at the moment, but Zeoll is able to sneak about halfway up the alley. once he gets there he can see a group of people, possible children, surrounding a lone figure, another child perhaps. just as he finishes moving, Zeoll hears a chant come from the crowd
"Rissa the dreamer! She's such a little schemer! Bumped her head an' went to bed-an' dreamed we are all dead!"
after he hears the chant, Zeoll notices that a couple of the mob look down the alley, but they dont seem to notice anything(make spot check of 10 Zeoll)
Kale d20+6=14 Thursday September 13th, 2001 9:34:05 AM
pushing Leets off him, Kale says "Theres something going on down this alley. Wait a moment and i'll find out what it is." moving quietly(move silently of 14), Kale catches up to Zeoll and says. "What do you see?"
Flat-top d20+1=18 Thursday September 13th, 2001 10:12:19 AM
Flat-top stays with Raorr and look down the alley to see if he can make out some thing. Tells Road or any body that's behind him. "I don't know what going on, but Zeoll and Kale went to see what the trouble is bruing".
Leets Thursday September 13th, 2001 3:03:01 PM
As the young paladin rubs his eyes, his sight goes from bright light to bright blur.
"Is there something happening? Hey somebody! Tell me!"
Zeoll d20+4=16 d20+5=22 Friday September 14th, 2001 12:31:02 AM
Zeoll whispers an explanation and plan to Kale in Tauric, so all the Chosen can understand, if they are close enough. "A mob is taunting a lone perrson, perrhaps a child. Odd that we should arrrive just at this point, one might think, but I believe therre arre no coincidences, my frriend. So I take this as a sign to act, to save the child. I will trry to distrract the mob; while I do so, please join with Ceirra or Kenisha and secrret away the lone child. I will find you then afterr I am done."
Zeoll removes his drums from his pack and steps out towards the crowd. His weapons are sheathed. He walks softly around until the mob is between him and the alley mouth (if he is seen, he ignores all until he is in the spot he has chosen). He keeps his eyes open and sharp [Spot roll 16]. Sitting in place and playing the drum, he begins a chant of his own in the Common tongue, but a more compelling one than the one the mob had been shouting [Perform roll 22]. Now listen frriends And hearr a tale Of fighterrs bold And lovers frrail. Of hearrts gone cold, And prride's travail That neverr ends.
Prrince Thom was brrave And glad in love With fair Lanorre, And herr white glove He took to warr And it above All else did save.
Now forrtune smiles On loverrs true But humbles last The prrideful few Who hold too fast To love's adieu. So Thom did whiles.
Zeoll continues the sad and tragic story of Prince Thom, hoping to distract the crowd with his chanted tale, so that other Chosen can whisk away the one they were taunting.
After he concludes the performance, the wemic tries to join the rest of the Chosen if he can do so without trailing a crowd.
Kenisha Friday September 14th, 2001 12:41:32 AM
OOC- I, the player, am really depressed and angry over what happened this Tuesday. So if I don't always reply everyday, that's the reason. I do want to continue playing this game, but right now my enthusiasm is very low for many things.
I'm a first responder for my company and so I know a SMALL PART of what it means to be in the EMS system.
I had a nightmare last night that I was at ground zero when the towers fell. That wasn't the worst of it however. In my dream, I was left untouched by any of the debris. I could see the smoke filled sky above me, but was totally cut off from escape and unable to get to the mirad number of people screaming for help. I couldn't go back to sleep and spent the rest of the night watching news reports.
A counselor I spoke to said that they were setting up group sessions for anyone, not just EMS personel and I intend to attend.
God Bless (or what whatever your religious/philosophical preference is) and Donate Blood if you are able!
Kalon the Wemic Friday September 14th, 2001 1:47:15 AM
Kalon waits near the gate to see the effect Zeoll has.
Tragity(dm sam) Friday September 14th, 2001 9:37:41 AM
i understand that everyone is feeling down and low and angry. for myself, its hard for me to concentrate on posting. so if anyone doesnt feel up to posting regulerly for the next two or three weeks, dont feel obligated to do so. all of us need time to think things through.
Run Away!(dm sam) Friday September 14th, 2001 9:43:00 AM
as soon as Zeoll starts chanting, some of the mob, who do appear to be children too, turn and look in his direction. as soon as they see him, they begin screaming "MONSTER, MONSTER!!!!!" and flee out of the alley. the little girl remains and seems nervous, but doesnt try to flee
Kale Friday September 14th, 2001 9:44:09 AM
after seeing the children fleeing from Zeoll, Kale sees no reason to be sneaky and approaches the little girl. "What's your name?" he asks her in Taur
Zeoll the Monster Friday September 14th, 2001 10:11:11 AM
The wemic laughs a huge laugh! "So much for music calming the savage beasts!" he says to himself. "Frankly, I think those humans are far more beastly than I am!"
Walking softly and slowly over to Kale and the child, he translates Kale's words into Common. Then he adds, first in Common and then in Tauric, "But I think I know yourr name. Arre you the one called Rrissa?"
The liontaur adds, "Drreamerrs arre specail people, you know. I believe that therre are trruths in drreams, if we know how to rread them."
Flat-top Friday September 14th, 2001 11:15:36 AM
Flat-top look's intently down the ally and tell Kenisha, Kalon, Leets and every body else who's behind him. "I see a small mob, yelling at what look like a small human female. Hee Hee Zeoll just scared off the group around this female and both Kale and Zeoll are talking to her." Flat-top turns to Kenisha and ask "Should we all go up the ally and scare the little female? Just look at the assortment of Taurs here! Now that's funny."
Kenisha Friday September 14th, 2001 12:07:51 PM
Kenisha shakes her head, "No we are not here to frighten little children." With that she makes her way to the little gir. She kneels down (so that she is not as intimidating) and says in Common, "Don't be afraid, little one, we are not going to hurt you. Are you alright?"
Ceira Karwyn Friday September 14th, 2001 11:21:16 PM
Ceira follows Kenisha towards the little girl. "Yes, we will not hurt you. Are you hungry?" Ceira pulls out the second apple she snatched from the kitchen this morning. "Do you like apples? Here, take it."
Raorr Sunday September 16th, 2001 6:35:38 PM
What's Funny Flat-top is that you are not advancing to protect our team members who may have been attacked by the mob up ahead." Roarr begins to quickly move up the alleyway while continuing to speak "They are on their way to get warriors to attack the monster whove just attacked them." RAorr thinks to himself that this group tries to hard to make jokes all the time.
Raorr bursts forth from that alleyway on alert for Human guards which he believes will arrive soon. "Hurry up taurs, trouble is coming, take her and go, talking to her here is not safe, were sticking out to much here." Raorr looks around "Ask her if there is a place where she could hide us, perhaps then we could question her at that time."
He looks at the child and notes that her posture seems not to indicate fear in her "What's wrong with her why isn't she afraid like the others? Is she blind?"
Talking(dm sam) Tuesday September 18th, 2001 9:53:47 AM
Raorr moves to the front of the alley to stand guard, but doesnt notice anyone at the moment. as the group surrounds the little girl, she takes the apple from Ceira and says "Thank you. Im not afraid." she puts the apple in one of her pockets and then she says. "Im Rissa. I know you, and you, and you." she says pointing to Zeoll, Kale, and Ceira. "You made a bit purple monster change into a nice man." then she pulls out the apple again and asks Ceira. "Do you have any candy?"
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday September 18th, 2001 7:52:49 PM
Kalon moves to stand beside where Raorr is.
Raorr Tuesday September 18th, 2001 10:13:28 PM
Raorr looks over his shoulder and sees the little human put the apple in her pocket and then take it back out. He hears her say something and then Raorr asks, "Ceira don't take or eat the Human's apple it might be poisoned."
He turns back and says to Kalon "Any idea what would be a good place to defend ourselves." Raorr looks around the alleyway and realizes that it looks like an acceptable location "Perhaps staying her is best, unless you have a better idea"
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday September 19th, 2001 12:54:40 AM
(OOC: Actually, I *gave* the apple to her. She isn't really offering anything to me.)
Ceira points to herself with a perplexed look. "You... you know me?" she stammers. "Big purple monster? How do you know this? Who are you? Wait, hold your thought, Raorr has a good point. We sort of stick out like a sore thumb here. Is there a place we can hide and talk?"
"By the way, I don't have any candy on me. But I assure you that the apple I gave you is extra delicious! Just one bite and the tender skin tears with a crack and then... well, just lead us to someplace safe Rissa." she giggles.
Flat-top Wednesday September 19th, 2001 3:23:00 AM
Flat-top keeping an eye out for trouble, tells the little girl"Sugar cubs are bad for your teeth, apples are better. It's true you know just look at Kales teeth." Flat-top smiles at Kale as he is trying to put the little girl at ease.
Zeoll d20+7=9 Wednesday September 19th, 2001 6:31:54 AM
Zeoll takes a moment to translate for Raorr.
"I believe this child is an orracle, a visionarry of some sorrt, and ourr meeting herre is no moment of chance, but of fate and Imod's will."
"The mob that had been torrmenting herr mocked herr drreams. She is not afrraid. And she says she knows me, Kale, and Ceirra." Zeoll pauses for a moment as the implications sink in. "And she knows about Sarrgasso's change from purrple monsterr to satyrr."
The wemic gently sits down and says to the child, in common and Taur, "Rrissa, you arre special perrson. Thank you forr not being afrraid of us. I hope we can be frriends. And I hope you will help us, even though we don't have any candy," he adds with a smile.
"Maybe we need a safe place, maybe not. Do you know what we need to do? Where should we go? Who should we visit?"
[OOC: That's a diplomacy check up there. D'Oh!]
Little Squirt(dm sam) Wednesday September 19th, 2001 9:24:28 AM
"I wish I had some candy. Momma cant afford it." Rissa says as she puts the apple back in her pocket. "I dreamed about you saving the purple monster, and i dreamed about you saving us from the bad lady. Are you here to save us from the bad lady." the little girl asks, hope gleaming in her eyes. meanwhile, Kalon and Raorr still see no sign of trouble
Kale Wednesday September 19th, 2001 9:27:00 AM
taken aback by Rissa's question, Kale refraims from answering, not really knowing what the answer is
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday September 19th, 2001 3:36:36 PM
"Well little Rissa. Do you think you can tell us a little more about this bad bad lady? Maybe we can go beat her up for you."
Kenisha Thursday September 20th, 2001 12:03:58 AM
The kneeling centaur with five stark white locks on her head smiles at the little girl.
"You are a seer.", she says in Common, "I am called Kenisha. I'm sure my friends and I would like to hear more about this bad lady, but first I think we need to find someplace less out in the open."
With that she stands up and adds, "Can you lead us to someplace safe?"
The Bad Lady(dm sam) Thursday September 20th, 2001 8:25:18 AM
"Whats a seer?" the girl asks, then she says "I can take you to the bad lady. I have dreams of her talking with very bad people. She runs an inn. Do you want to go?"
Kale Thursday September 20th, 2001 8:26:15 AM
Kale shruggs his shoulders and says, "Sure, anything beats just standing around here."
Flat-top Thursday September 20th, 2001 1:04:29 PM
"Bad Lady? HUH!" said Flat-top,"Well! It's better than letting the trouble come to us. I'm with you, Let's Go." then follows Kale.
Zeoll Thursday September 20th, 2001 8:04:50 PM
Zeoll shakes his head, and the beads in his mane clatter together softly. He speaks in Taur. "My hunting instincts say we should learrn morre about ourr prrey, then trrack, then pounce," says the wemic. "But in this city, therre is no way we can rremain inconspicuous and stealthy. So maybe the best thing is to go to this inn now, this verry moment, beforre ourr prrey takes flight orr rredies defenses."
He looks at Kenisha to see if she seems to agree.
"But I think we should take carre in ourr haste, unlike the time we killed Kularr. Let us be surre we arre doing the rright thing."
Turrning to Leets, he adds, softer, "And in matterrs such as this, I trrust yourr instincts morre than my own, good Leets. How do you feel about this child? And when we see the "bad lady," I will be looking to you to see how Domi guides yourr senses."
Kalon the Wemic Friday September 21st, 2001 12:17:32 AM
Kalon rolls his eyes to the sky and shakes his head then continues to watch for trouble beside Raorr.
Kenisha Friday September 21st, 2001 1:30:03 AM
Kenisha smiles at Rissa, "A seer is someone who either sees things that happen far far away, or things that may happen in the future."
Turning to Zeoll and the others, "As to where we should go, I think we should go someplace other than this inn since the bad lady runs it."
Turning back to the little girl, Kenisha asks, "Is there someplace else you could take us so we can find out more about this bad lady?"
Talking(dm sam) Monday September 24th, 2001 9:47:28 AM
"You didnt talk this much in my dream." Rissa says, pouting a bit. "Your suppost to come to the Journey's End inn and see the bad lady!!" she says, putting her hands on her hips
Kale Monday September 24th, 2001 9:48:25 AM
"This one has fire." Kale says. "I wonder if she realizes that we could tear her apart without even trying?"
Leets Monday September 24th, 2001 2:24:11 PM
Leets rubs his eyes one last time, and smiles to the girl.
"Don't worry Rissa, if there is any bad lady around, we will not let her arm you. Come on, just jump on my back, we'll see it closer..."
"I will keep my ears opened for Domi's voice Zeoll, he will probably show us the way like he always did until now...To my mind, if we met this girl first, it probably means that we have to follow her vision. She has to be some kind of guide for us, so let's go to the Journey's End, it looks like all begins there. What do you think of it Kenisha?"
While waiting for Kenisha's answer, Leets tries to locate the inn, and uses his Detection of Evil.
Zeoll d20+3=17 Monday September 24th, 2001 4:20:01 PM
Zeoll keeps a wary eye out [OOC Spot 17] as he waits for Kenisha's reply. He'll follow her suggestion wherever it leads.
If anyone asks, like he said last post, Zeoll thinks the group should head to this inn while they still have a chance to surprise the people there.
Flat-top Monday September 24th, 2001 4:45:38 PM
"Now! Now! Kale, Tear her apart?" Ask Flat-top, But I do like the part of her haveing a bit of fire. Just wait untill she grows up, then she'll be a Volcano... WHOSSH." Flat-top snickers as they trot along (at less Flat-top is troting.)
Ceira Karwyn Monday September 24th, 2001 9:36:26 PM
"The bad lady runs an inn huh? Well, we can certainly go visit her. But the question is..." Ceira touches the sides of her waist and then the top of her head. "I don't know if we could fit."
(OOC: As wemics and centaurs, do our widths exceed the standard 3ft-wide door? Or perhaps the Wold has a different standard? ^_^ Minotaurs can probably squeeze in sideways. We can probably handle the height by crawling or something. But even still, it'll probably be uncomfortable with a handful of Taurs packed in a room.)
Kenisha Tuesday September 25th, 2001 12:09:23 AM
"Perhaps it would be best if we just went to the inn now," Kenisha says. In Tauric she adds, "Now everyone, be alert, but let's not call an attack on us. No waving weapons about, just keep them at your sides for now."
Going To The Inn(dm sam) d20+4=6 Tuesday September 25th, 2001 4:57:36 AM
as he watches out of the ally, Zeoll sees two dwarves walk by. they look down the alley, but either they didnt see anything or they are not bothered by what they saw because they continue walking by the alley. when hearing that Kenisha agrees to go to the inn, Rissa jumps up and down and starts clapping her hands. "YEAH, LETS GO!!!" she yells and jumps on Leets back. grabing his horns, she says, "I wish I had horns. Then I could run over all those guys who pick on me. Now follow me, ill take you to the Journey's End Inn."
Kale Tuesday September 25th, 2001 4:59:11 AM
"I guess we're going." Kale says to Flat-Top. "Sargasso said that this town is very racial diversified. I hope we dont stand out."
Leets Tuesday September 25th, 2001 12:11:28 PM
Always trying to detect some kind of evil around, Leets trots along with Rissa on his back, in the direction showed by the young girl.
Raorr Tuesday September 25th, 2001 12:57:36 PM
Raorr, standing beside Kalon, sees the girl jump on Leets back, he instinctively tenses, and then forces himself to relax realizing that Leets must have allowed her to do it.
Raorr leans down to whisper to Kalon "I have a bad feeling about this supposedly innocent little girl" Raorr glances back at her "Going by the logic Leets and some of the others have proposed in the past, Domi should have sent a person who spoke Taur." Raorr thinks for a moment and then says "So we are going now, good"
Raorr begins walking.
Flat-top Tuesday September 25th, 2001 1:18:27 PM
Flat-top trotting (or prancing) beside Kale. "Hmmm! first the little female colt with a message, then a human female with a message of a Bad Lady at the Journey's End. But Domi do the strangest things."
Zeoll Tuesday September 25th, 2001 5:41:54 PM
Zeoll joins the group in going to this inn. He is not skulking nor swaggering -- but his tail lashes with unhappiness at finding himself in a human city, surrounded by dead stone, hard-packed earth, and scant nature.
At the inn, unless Kenisha says otherwise, he makes a quick scout around the building, noting exits. If there are several, he suggests that the group enter the building from several directions at once.
"When hunting," the liontaur says in Taur, "one may flusterr one's prrey by coming frrom both forre and behind."
[Umm ... Leets is a centaur, right? He doesn't have horns, does he? And Sam, if Zeoll gets to scout around, please make whatever rolls you need. Track +8, Spot +4, Search +1, Listen +3]
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday September 25th, 2001 7:17:52 PM
"Hee hee hee..." Ceira giggles to herself as she watches the Rissa play with Leets.
Turning to Zeoll, "You are very cautious by nature. Certainly nothing wrong with that but you need to lighten up a bit. Rissa obviously isn't terrified of this 'Bad Lady' so she might not be what she's cracked up to be. Leets is also a holy knight so he should be able to sense evil within a certain vicinity. With him and Rissa in the lead, we should be okay."
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday September 26th, 2001 12:24:25 AM
As he falls into line with the group he says to Raorr,"You always have a bad feeling about anybody who is screaming and yelling at the top of their lungs and brandishing weapons in violence," he takes a deep breath,"Face it my friend you were born to fight and you are always looking for one"
The Journey's End(dm sam) d20+4=18 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 6:09:20 AM
(Leets doesnt have any horns. my mistake) With Leets carrying her, Rissa guides the party towards the inn. as they walk through the crowd, they notice that people take notice of them, but do nothing to bar their way or do anything to hinder the taurs. after about fifteen minuets, the group arrives in front of an inn with huge doors(everyone make spot checks) "Here we are." Rissa says "The Journey's End Inn."(Zeoll doesnt notice anything unusual)
Kale d20+1=4 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 6:10:24 AM
"Those doors sure are big." Kale says. "I wonder what they are used for? Any ideas Flat-Top?"
Zeoll d20+4=15 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 9:31:22 AM
Zeoll takes a close look around. What kind of setting is this? Seedy? Mercantile? Well-to-do? What kind of buildings are nearby? Did he see anyone on the walk who looked like a constable or serjeant?
Raorr d20-2=16 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 12:06:42 PM
"Looks like a place thqat expects large people... any one wanna better the bad lady isn't human?" Raorr loosens up trying not to be tense. "your Right Kalon, I need a fight. The human city it too quiet, I haven't seen those evil theives yet. Wouldn't it be great if the bad lady's a dragon, now that would be fun." Raorr checks his weapons, seeing there alright "Yeah a dragon that would be fun. a good fight, we might even die fighting, glorious tales would be told, right Zeoll?"
OOC Spot check
Leets d20+2=8 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 12:34:52 PM
As he walks the streets of Lankhmar, Leets is amazed to see so many people. Always bearing the girl on his back, the young paladin tries not to make her fall, and lifts his head to look at the doors when arriving in front of the Inn.
"Perhaps we just have to knock? That would be great if there was a dragon we could talk to. Mother said they aren't all evil, although I have never met one..."
Flat-top d20+3=6 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 1:54:54 PM
OCC;opps should not have the (+3), so with a roll of 3,Flat-top does not know what horse shoes he has on.
Flat-top Looks at the door and turns to Kale, "Hmmm! Well, it seem to me is to let something or somebody Very BIG in ?? Or they that size because everybody in there all want to get out in one great BIG hurry??".
Ceira Karwyn d20+2=19 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 4:23:42 PM
"Well, let's not get too carried away now. For all we know, it might be big just for shipping purposes. Maybe this inn has an entertainment stage and they occasionally have to wheel in large harpsichords or pianos."
Kalon the Wemic d20+1=12 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 7:07:50 PM
Kalon walks along beside the Raorr marveling at the myriad different people. At the same time feeling trapped by the narrowness of the city streets. In his mind and heart wishing he was once again running the open plains of his home. When he hears Raorr and Leets talking about a dragon he winces inside,"Well Raorr I'm sure it would be quite a fight though I would rather live through the battle then to die gloriously" he says.
OOC: Spot check is 12
Kenisha d20+3=10 Wednesday September 26th, 2001 11:09:43 PM
Kenisha shakes her head smiling at Raorr and Kalon's talk. When the group reaches the inn she says, "I suppose we knock."
Sam Friday September 28th, 2001 9:45:08 AM
hello. in the last couple of days ive had some serious personal problems occur and it doesnt look like they are going away until monday, so ill be unable to post until then. sorry for any inconvience
Big Doors (dm sam) Monday October 1st, 2001 6:58:04 AM
Everyone who rolled a 15 or higher on their spot check reconize that the doors and the rest of the building resembles the architecture found throughout Centaur island. No one has seen anyone go in or out, but the inn does look respectable. Once the group approaches the door, Rissa says, "I can't go in there. Maldreen doesnt allow children in there. She's the bad lady."
Kale Monday October 1st, 2001 6:59:25 AM
"I dont know Flat-Top, but bad lady or no, im pretty thirsty." Kale says. "Im ready for a drink."
Leets Monday October 1st, 2001 9:56:26 AM
"This lady is probably not that bad if she is wise enough not to let a child enter this place."
Leets helps Rissa to jump on the ground.
"I would prefer you to wait here Rissa, I would less worry, and moreover, I don't think you want to meet this lady, right?"
Flat-top Monday October 1st, 2001 10:03:21 AM
"Kale I do love your sugestion." said Flat-top with a gleem in his eye. "Bad Lady or No, I'm a little dry. Aprey Vous, Sir, Aprey Vous."
Raorr the Minotaur d20+2=14 Monday October 1st, 2001 1:04:02 PM
Raorr notes the Centauric features, and begins stomping up the steps. Once he gets to the door he'll push them open and enter. He'll look (14) around for a female centaur who appears to be wealthy amongst the crowd. The expression on Roarr's face is a scowl, and like he's looking for something to provoke him.
Zeoll Monday October 1st, 2001 9:12:52 PM
Zeoll suggests that it is time to enter the building. He suggests that there will probably be talking before anything else. If Kenisha will designate a speaker, Zeoll will cast a Guidance spell on the person she picks before they enter to give a bonus to the speaker's Diplomacy roll. If she designates no one, he will cast it on himself just before they enter.
Kenisha Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 12:00:37 AM
"Well, let's go in. But everyone, be on your best behavior until we know what's up." Kenisha says as she follows Raorr.
Trouble(dm sam) Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 9:41:03 AM
Before the party is able to enter the Journey's End, a loud commotion erupts down the street. In moments a group of heavily armed and armored centaurs and minotaurs come marching up to the inn. The centaurs carry spears and shields and the minotaurs carry halberds. All wear plate armor and carry nets. One of the centaurs moves slightly ahead of the rest and says, "You are hearby ordered to appear in front of the Dual Council to answer for the crime of attacking human childern. Come peacefully or you will be dragged through the city in disgrace." The other taurs then pull out their nets and look prepared to use them. "You have one minute to decide."
Kale Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 9:43:00 AM
seeing the impressive display of force, Kale shows his hands in front of him and says. "Though we committed no crime, ill come peacefully."
Raorr Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 10:20:40 AM
Raorr leves and goes with the group. and mutters somethiung about wraping a net around the taurs necks if they touch him.
Flat-top Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 10:25:43 AM
Looking at the MOB of assorted Tour in frount of him. Looks at Kale and ask,"Does this mean we won't get our drinks?" Then follows the rest of the party.
Kenisha Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 12:19:20 PM
Kenisha answers with, "We will come peacefully. Rissa? Since you were there, will you come and speak with us as to the events that occurred at the mouth of the alleyway?"
Leets Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 12:56:21 PM
"What? To appear in front of the council? Is it a joke? How do you dare!?!? I don't even know of which child you are talking of!!!!"
Leets grins, blushes, and finally crosses his arms on his chest.
"Ok, let's go, but I really feel offended and when it's over I want you to apologize for considering us like vulgar criminals!"
Ceira Karwyn Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 3:58:11 PM
Ceira clenches her teeth in frustration before yielding to the guards. "Well, it appears we aren't the only Taurs on this island afterall." she mumbles. She turns to one of the guards and asks, "What makes you think we did it anyways? Who accused us?"
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 4:00:10 PM
Kalon follows the group.
Zeoll d20+8=21 Tuesday October 2nd, 2001 5:14:58 PM
After hearing the rest of the Chosen, Zeoll says softly, "A wonderr and a marrvel it is to me to see these ancient enemies, minotaurrs and centaurrs, joined in common purrpose!" The wemic grins. "Surrely Tomi smiles on them, though they may be mislead about ourr mission herre."
Then Zeoll stands straight up and answers the lead centaur in a calm and patient but determined voice, speaking first in the Taur language, then in Common if it seems that anybody does not understand.
"Hearr me, oh Taurrs," the liontaur says, "and know you that I am a prriest of Imod, and that beforre you stand the Chosen of Domi. We arre herre on a sacrred quest, so although we will accompany you willingly if we must, underrstand well, oh child of Domi, that yourr summons seems designed to obstrruct the will of the god of centaurrs, minotaurrs, and liontaurrs."
"Forr it is clearr that we arre falsely and basely accused! This happy human child, safely and willingly among us, puts the lie to yourr charrges. In Domi's name, I ask you to let us go frreely."
"Or if you will not, then at the least yeild to us the names of ourr accuserrs, that we may know those who dishonorr us. And tell us, too, good officerr, how much time this sojourrn to meet yourr Dual Council will rrequire."
"So leave us frree to rresume ourr holy quest, orr lead us swiftly to the Meet of yourr Elderrs. But in any event, I hope you will offerr us the full courrtesy we gladly offerr you in Imod's name."
Zeoll bows low.
[OOC: Diplomacy Roll 21 includes the +1 from the Guidance spell I just cast.]
==========
Zeoll's Status: unwounded one Guidance Spell Cast
Marching Orders(dm sam) Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 10:06:04 AM
the guards seem unimpressed by Zeoll's speach. "Lets get moving." the centaur says. "You'll have your chance to talk in front of the council." then with the centaurs taking the lead and the minotaurs guarding the rear, the group begins to march down the streets. as they march, the group notices that their guards seem very tense, as if they are expecting trouble to happen at any time
Kale Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 10:08:19 AM
Noticing the mood of the guards, Kale keeps an eye out for an opportunity to break free of the guards.
Kenisha Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 11:07:14 AM
OOC- Does Rissa come with? Or did she stay behind?
Flat-top Wednesday October 3rd, 2001 1:54:29 PM
Flat-top marching almost behind Kale, whispers"I'm with you,Kale, any time your ready."
Kalon the Wemic Thursday October 4th, 2001 12:17:56 AM
Looking towards Raorr he watches him closely expecting him to lose his temper at anytime. Undecided wether he will join the minotaur if he breaks loose or not. He hopes it will not come to a fight.
Raorr Thursday October 4th, 2001 1:32:38 AM
Raorr restrains his primal urge to fight. He says to the rest of the group, through clenched teeth "Our mission is to help unite the Taurs. The chosen should not resist a united Centaur-Minotaur council request." It seems difficult for him to say, but he looks back at Kenisha and gives her a glance waiting to hear her comments.
Raorr walks in the direction the guards moition for the group to go. Raorr stops suddenly and yells at something in the air "Shut up, or I'll slice out your tongue, boy! They hear you shut up!" He then looks around like he's searching for something or someone. "Where did you go?".
Raorr smirks at one of the minotaur guards. "Don't look behind you, you won't find him there, he's real sneaky"
RAorr continues to walk, after about a hundred paces he says "But Imod, says not to kill the guards. Why go against his word." He pauses as if listening to a voice "ALright I'll warn him" Raorr looks at another guard "If you snarl at him again he says, He's going to kill you" With that Raorr continues walking.
Ceira Karwyn d20+3=14 Thursday October 4th, 2001 1:56:20 AM
Ceira figures it doesn't hurt to ask so she picks out the most nervous guard and asks, "You seem tense. What is it that bothers you?" She bats her eyelashes in a flirtatious manner.
If the guard lets her get close enough, she will lightly run her forefinger up and down his arm. "Well...? You can tell me can't you?"
(OOC: Would this be some sort of Intimidation roll or Gather Information roll? Either way, I have a +3 bonus to my roll)
Zeoll Thursday October 4th, 2001 6:37:06 AM
Zeoll shrugs and travels with the group. He is alert for any sign of danger.
Arrival(dm sam) d20=18 Thursday October 4th, 2001 10:03:30 AM
The guards resist both Raorr's and Ceira's attempt to distract them. In short order the party arrives at a massive building with a statue of a centaur and a minotaur at the front. Before the party can see any more they are escorted in the building and put in a small room. "Wait in here, the Council will see you shortly," the centaur says and shuts the door, leaving the group to their thoughts.
Leets Thursday October 4th, 2001 3:24:44 PM
The young Paladin looks around, and discretly says:
"Did you notice? They didn't even take our weapons....And there are no Wemics neither among the guards, neither among the statues...I now understand why it is only a "dual" council"
Raorr Thursday October 4th, 2001 5:46:58 PM
Raorr speaks again to the invisible person sneaky person around the guards "Your right little one, I'll tell him" Raorr looks at Leets "Of course there's no wemics in the dual council, only until you saw Kular did the three races all seems closer together." Raorr shakes his head "Minotaurs and Centaurs have never cared about the Wemics, to them Imod and Domi created only the Mino and Cen. In general, The mino and Cen think the Wemics are deluded in thinking they are part of the original race created by Imod and Domi."
Raorr stomps something on the ground repeatedly "Anooying bugs! There like humans, so many to kill, and they come in swarms."
Flat-top Thursday October 4th, 2001 6:32:18 PM
"Yes! that's what we use to think. But after meeting Zeoll and his brothers, we got into a few fight. Now! we know better. Said Flat-top, then adding for Raorr benefit," I resally cannot wait to see how you fair in a real fight?"
Kenisha Thursday October 4th, 2001 9:19:07 PM
(OOC- DM SAM!!!!! I asked a question yesterday and I'd appreciate it if you would answer it, it's important for how we go on with things. Did the human girl, Rissa, come with us to this Dual Council or did she stay back at the inn? Thank you)
Zeoll Thursday October 4th, 2001 11:35:55 PM
Zeoll keeps his eyes open as the group enters the building and passes through. Does he note any sign of veneration or respect for Domi/Imod? Any sign of other gods? What language(s) were the guards speaking?
Kalon the Wemic Friday October 5th, 2001 1:01:28 AM
Moving closer to Raorr Kalon asks,"Who are you speaking to Raorr? You're talking to the air"
Ceira Karwyn Friday October 5th, 2001 1:15:33 AM
Ceira frowns on her failed attempt to flirt with the guard. She remains silent as she crosses her arms and pouts off to the side.
We who are about to die salute you (DM Carl) Monday October 8th, 2001 5:03:29 AM
The party are eventually brought before the Dual Council, the forum for all disputes between Taurs of Lankhmar. It exists to prevent an ongoing state of all-out war from existing between the races. It is made up of six members--three minotaurs and three centaurs. One minotaur moves forward and addresses the party. “It has been alleged that this motley band of disparate Taurs has assaulted human children earlier this day, and must therefore stand before the Council to receive judgement. Let it be known that we the Dual Council find these charges to be erroneous and false. These Taurs are not guilty. However a more serious allegation has been made, and in this we must act, for it is said that these Taurs name themselves the Chosen of Domi, and that they preach unity of the Taur races. All know our races are at War, at the bidding of our God!” The minotaur shoots a filthy look at the centaurs at the High Table, a look which is returned with interest. “For this heresy they shall be subject to Taur justice! You shall play the current Champions in the sacred Kok’Annar arena! According to our laws, if you win you will have proved the validity of your case” (The taur says this with a smirk,; clearly the party winning is not considered very likely) ”and if you lose… you shall be proved heretics, and put to death!”
Before protestation is possible, the party is marched from the audience chamber and are taken to a temple of Imod, where they are made ready for the bout. All weapons, armour and items are stripped from them, and replaced with blue cloth garments. Those able to use armour are given the option to don dyed blue leather armour. Any two weapons each are then made available, but it is made clear that no magic items are allowed, on penalty of forfeiture of the game. Even spells may only be cast once the game gong has been sounded. Finally each party member is given a set of blue, soft leather gloves, and the spellcasters are given a sash, white for Zeoll, red for Ceira and Kenisha. When questioned on this, the attendants will only say “Because Honour demands it!”.
As the party are led towards the field of play the sounds of the crowd filter down the tunnel. In answer to the party’s protestations that they don’t even know the rules of the game, the attendants grin and say “It’s simple. Five balls in the centre of the pitch, teams start at either end. The team that scores the most goals wins. Oh, and try not to fall into the pits!”
And then they are in the arena. The roar of the crowd is deafening, but seems to be unified in its support of the centaur side, all dressed in red, that are taking to the field. The pitch itself is an oval field of combed sand, and at its centre there are five spikeballs of metal--red, blue, green, gold and silver--laid out in a line that stretches about twenty feet from end to end. On either side of the line of spikeballs is a twenty-foot-round, twenty-foot-deep pit, spaced twenty feet from each other. About thirty feet away from each pit is the starting line for each team--the starting lines are about forty feet from each end of the field. At the each end of the field is a ten-foot-tall, twenty-foot-round wooden platform with a four and a half foot tall stone pedestal at the front of it; the goals. A long, narrow wooden ramp leads from field level directly in front of the platform...it winds up and around to the rear of the platform. The attendants position the party on the starting line, offer a brief, insincere offer of good luck, then retreat from the field of play.
The crowd suddenly stills in breathless expectation. The opposing team (looking very composed and confident) paw at the ground, ready for battle. Then a gong sounds from the Council podium, and the game has begun!
Flat-top Monday October 8th, 2001 12:31:21 PM
Flat-top comes out of to tunnel and onto the field. He (with the rest of the party) look around and spots the all the Centaurs are wearing red and one of then is wearing a white sash like the one Zeoll has on and two of the Centaurs are wearing red sashes like Ceira and Kanisha have on. Also a quick look at the goals and the pit. Also the five balls in the center. "OH! Great! they are all Centers. That means they are faster than our Minataurs and our Wemics. That means we centaurs will meet in the center at the same time, GEEES! that means two to one??" Flat-top turns to the rest of the party, "Even I we should get one of those spike colored balls, Which goal do we put it in?. THEN the gong sounds off Flat-top galloping at full speed for the center of the arena and those spiked balls.
Zeoll d20+1=16 d8+1=2 d20+1=8 Monday October 8th, 2001 2:53:01 PM
When Zeoll's sword is taken, anger is clear on his face. "Domi himself," the wemic priest says, "took this verry sworrd frrom my hand, blessed it and enchanted it, and gave it back to me. Do not prrofane this holy blade! I charrge you to trreat and hold it with rrespect!"
The liontaur claims a greatsword and a longspear as the two weapons he chooses to bring into the Arena. He can weild both weapons at the same time, one in each hand, but in a close fight he intends to use only sword and paws. The spear, which is a reach weapon, Zeoll intends to use against enemies as they close [OOC: the spear should afford an attack of opportunity against opponents within ten feet, especially one closing to attack at a five-foot range.]
Zeoll sheathes the sword and carries the spear ready.
As soon as the gong sounds, Zeoll sprints, and Flat-top may be surprised that this wemic, at least, is hot by his side [OOC: thanks to his Run feat].
"I guess we have to put the balls in THAT goal," Zeoll says, pointing to the goal far away from the group, near where the red team started.
If Zeoll gets to the center of the arena before the opposing team, he will pick up the blue spiked ball in his free hand. [OOC: that's a half run (under 100 feet) as a move action and a pick-up as a move-equivalent action, right?] If an opponent then moves in an area he threatens, Zeoll will attack if he gets an Attack of Opportunity.
If Zeoll gets to the center after the red team arrives, he will charge to attack with the spear, holding it in two hands. He makes the charge from ten feet away, so that after his attack, if an opponent want to fight with a non-reach weapon, Zeoll hopes to first get another attack as an AoO as the opponent charges.
Zeoll won't pick up a ball if there are enemies close by, since picking up a ball probably allows an AoO.
[OOC: Two attacks above to use as needed for a charge and maybe an AoO. The first hits AC 16 (AC 18 on a charge) for a measly two points of damage! The second attack (possibly an AoO) misses (AC8). It's possible, of course, that neither of these attacks will be used.]
Leets Monday October 8th, 2001 3:38:13 PM
The young Paladin bitterly let those people take his equipment, given by his mother, a paladin herself.
"And you'd better take care of it!"
Once allowed to take weapons, Leets will choose a wooden staff and a leather armor.
When he enters the arena, the young centaur is half amazed, half terrified. He looks around, very impressed by the crowd all around, and by being one of the center of interest of so many people. Suddenly, the gong sounds:
"Zeoll! Flat-Top, I'll go on one side, they will have to send more people to stop me and it will be easier for you!"
Leets begins to gallop along the wall on his left, going ahead as quickly as he can. While running, he focuses on the opponents to locate any real bad guy and prepare to some "punch below the belt" (detect evil).
OOC: anybody running by Leets' side will benefit from the paladin's aura of courage (+4 saving throws against fear effects).
Kalon the Wemic Monday October 8th, 2001 9:34:57 PM
Kalon emerges onto the field and stands by awaiting Kenisha's orders. As he does he flexes and bends loosening his limbs for the contest.
"This is insanity and foolish besides I think this council is in need of defeat not the team across the way." he looks back down the tunnel,"If we must fight these centaurs and are badly beaten we will be failing our god. Even if we win we are failing in our mission I say we do nothing. Face the council."
Ceira Karwyn d20+5=16 Monday October 8th, 2001 9:37:06 PM
(OOC: Umm... Ceira is a Wemic so I don't know if you had special intentions for her to wear red. Because she is female perhaps?)
Not being very proficient at any melee weapon, Ceira frowns but decides to grab a long spear. She might be clumsy with it but if she can swing in mighty arcs, she might get lucky. She dons the blue outfit given to her. "Bleh, what a tacky color." she comments.
Upon entering the arena, Ceira gasps at the sight of the centaurs. "Soooo many centaurs!!! Aaiiiyeee!"
As she attempts to regain her composure, she misses a few precious seconds at the sound of the gong. "Just focus on the field. Just focus on the field." she mumbles to herself as she prepares to make the dash. As her mind begins clearing again, she yells, "Hey! Let my Unseen Servant handle the balls while we all protect him in a circle. This'll give us one extra fighting hand... paw... hoof... whatever."
Ceira closes her eyes and concentrates to shut out the noise. She begins chanting the verbal words that calls forth an Unseen Servant. (OOC: Concentration Check = 16)
Raorr Monday October 8th, 2001 10:28:36 PM
Raorr looks at Kalon, and says "This city is tainted and impure, wild thoughts are in my head, I see little human children every where sneaking around the legs of the guards."
Raorr speaks uttering under his breath as he's shoved away. When they remove his equipment he's still muttering.
When they offer weapons he takes his Masterwork Greatsword (Total BAB is +6) and a Spiked Guantlet (Total BAB is +5), He takes the Blue Leather armour (AC is 16 or 17 w/Dodge vs. First Opponent met).
Raorr looks to Kenisha and says "I guess today is a good day to die, huh" He notes the three taurs already moving up ahead. "I wonder if this arena has hidden pits as well?"
Raorr will move toward the Goal of the Taurs, and walk up the Ramp.
OOC: Have fun guys. I'm not gonna do anything until I actually find out how many opponent there are and what they are equipped with.
Kenisha Tuesday October 9th, 2001 1:32:49 AM
(ooc- I'm guessing that the red sash means arcane magic and the white means divine magic)
Kenisha chose a sling and a heavy mace when offered her choice of two weapons and then entered the arena.
"Kalon, Raorr! Stay back here with me. We will defend this end from the opposing team in case Flat-top is right and they have to come this way to score."
Kenisha will be prepared to cast a Magic Missile if any of the opposing team come across the blue line.
Kale d20+1=12 d6=5 Tuesday October 9th, 2001 5:26:02 AM
not happy at all about loosing his robles, Kale dawns the blue armor and chooses a short bow and a mace as his two weapons. as soon as everyone takes off, Kale stands right where he is and shoots an arrow at the nearest centaur(hit ac12 for 5 if it hit) then he sticks six arrows in the ground in front of him and waits for his next target
And the winner is... (DM Carl) Tuesday October 9th, 2001 6:21:17 AM
Both teams of eight spring into action. Spells are cast, the front lines of each team charge towards the centre, and defensive positions established. Kale's arrow bounces off the red leather armour of a charging centaur, curt orders are yelled over the din of hooves and the roar of the crowd...
Then, mere moments after it has begun, it is over. From the Dual Council podium a venerable minotaur cleric rises to his feet, his oustretched, accusatory finger shaking with rage and disbelief as he points at the Champion Red centaurs. He cries out, in a roar of such terrible fury that the entire crowd is startled into silence, "DISHONOURR! We arre SHAMED! There is CHEATING at the sacred Kok'Annar!!"
Everything stops. The crowd turns to stare at their noble champions, who are frozen in place under that terrible, wrathful gaze. On each one of them, clearly visible, is a glowing red spot. "They are wearing TRRAINING STONES!!!!" The Council member, now incoherent with rage, has to be helped back into his seat. It seems the centaur team did not expect the Dual Council clerics to check them for magical enhancements, only these upstart Blues, the 'Chosen.'
The deadly hush explodes into a cacophonous din, as furious spectators hurl their rage, abuse and ringside snacks at the rapidly retreating Red Team. Soon the Chosen are alone at the centre of the arena, and slowly the crowd grow silent once more. For the realisation is spreading of what this means. Of what has happened here today. Without a ball even being touched, The Chosen of Domi have won!
Kale Tuesday October 9th, 2001 9:23:04 AM
Kale looks around a bit, then says. "That was easy." as he begins to pick up his arrows
Kenisha d20+3=21 Tuesday October 9th, 2001 10:30:25 AM
When the elder minotaur first stood and called out, Kenisha was confused until she realized that he was pointing at the centaur team.
"We've won?" Kenisha says a bit stunned. "We've won!" she repeats excitedly. She then hugs both Raorr and Kalon.
Once the crowd is silent gain, Kenisha trots up to the podium and the council. In a carrying voice she states, "We ARE the Chosen of Imod; who is Tomi and who is Domi. The war between Minotaur and Centaur is ended and we have embraced not only one another, but our brothers and sisters of the wemic race as well."
"Tomi in his wisdom sent us to this city for a purpose, clearly a part of that mission was to spread the word to those of his children whom have traveled far from their native isles."
(ooc- the roll above is her diplomacy check if needed)
Flat-top Tuesday October 9th, 2001 12:04:52 PM
Flat-top is ready to strike back at the first two or three that comes his way. The every thing stops and those word come to rim loud and clear. The Red Centaurs are wearing Training Stones, The Chosen Ones Have Won." Flat-top turns and faces the Dual Council and the Crowd, then he tears his tunic off to reveal that he had NO armor on. Flat-top yell at the crowd,"Thanks be to Domi(flat-top raising the only weapon he had) that is how much faith I have in our God." Then tells Kenisha," Kanisha ask the Dual Council Who among them is so afraid of us, that they would CHEAT by giving them(red Centaurs)Training Stones. Also ask the everybody to frogive them." Them puting his arm around Zeoll, "Let's go and pick up our gifts from Domi."
Leets listens at the elder, and then trots proudly before the red team, breaking his staff on his knee and throwing the two pieces on the ground.
"We should have known it was some test from Domi, once more he didn't abandon us!"
After that Leets comes by Kenisha's side while she talks, crossing his arms on his chest and noding. He gets a look at Raorr and finally says:
"Hey my friend, this time it was quite serious, but I'm sure we could have some fun with this game, don't you think so?"
Kalon the Wemic Tuesday October 9th, 2001 3:53:55 PM
Kalon blushes and feels happy at Kenisha's hug. Then calmly lays down shaking his head,"What was the point of that Tomi?" he asks to the air
Zeoll Tuesday October 9th, 2001 6:18:21 PM
Somewhat startled by this turn of events, Zeoll gapes for a second. Then he rejoins the group near Kenisha and listens to the wisdom of her words. He is less excited at their "victory," which he hardly felt was earned. But Zeoll nods in agreement with Kenisha's speech, and he cannot think of anything to say that would add to it.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday October 10th, 2001 12:38:08 AM
"YAY!" Ceira shrieks and hopping up and down. Realizing the crowd's eys are on her, she clears her throat and regrooms her mane as quickly as possible. She waves to the crowd with a big smile while walking back to the group. Ceira is loving the attention! She silently commands her Unseen Servant to continue following her until the one hour duration is used up.
When she overhears Kalon, she responds. "Perhaps it intended to show everyone a message. Look at us, a team of Wemics, Centaurs, and Minotaurs. All stand as victors to show that we can indeed be united. True, this was not a real victory but our willingness to work as a team is victory enough for Tomi. Do you not think so?"
Chosen! Chosen! Chosen! Wednesday October 10th, 2001 5:59:54 AM
The group stands before the Dual Council at the podium. At first these august members are too stunned to respond to Kenisha, until eventually the minotaur cleric who first denounced the Red Team rises to his feet once more. In a clear, ringing voice he says “Chosen of Domi, by the treachery of our Champions, by your victory in the sacred Kok’Annar, you have proven your words to be unassailable Truth. The dream shared by our peoples has been made reality. Domi has indeed spoken through you; it is Domi’s will that Taurs be united!” He turns to the crowd and cries “IT IS DOMI’S WILL THAT THE TAURS BE UNITED!” In turn the crowd begin to chant, hesitantly at first, then with growing passion; “DOMI’S WILL THAT THE TAURS BE UNITED! DOMI’S WILL THAT THE TAURS BE UNITED!”. A great Centaur, aged but powerful, moves to the Minotaur’s side, and places a hand on his shoulder.
“From this day on,” the centaur says to the party, “we who have fought so long amongst ourselves, we brother Taur, shall stand as one race, under one God, who is Domi, who is Imod, who is Tomi. ALL HAIL THE CHOSEN OF DOMI!!” The crowd launch into a rousing chorus of “CHOSEN! CHOSEN! CHOSEN!”.
A banquet is announced in your honour, both as winners of the Kok’Annar, and as bearers of Domi’s Holy Word., and preparations begin at once for a feast that same night. You are taken to sumptuous (by the standards of most of the party) apartments, and provided with grooming that leaves the fur of those that accept it wonderfully clean, fine smelling and soft. The party gather outside the apartments, refreshed and reunited with all their gear (which has been expertly cleaned and polished), as the councillors approach to lead them to the feast.
Kale Wednesday October 10th, 2001 8:48:36 AM
dressed again in his red robe, Kale puts the hood over his head as he enters the banquet hall
Zeoll Wednesday October 10th, 2001 9:06:43 AM
As the group gathers together before entering the feasting hall, Zeoll muses aloud.
"My hearrt bewarrns me that the changewinds arre blowing most strrongly, and with them, events are flying by fast! Well, let us fly with them, so that at least we will rretain more dignity than if we rresist and then arre blown away!"
Zeoll enters the hall with his fellow Chosen.
Kalon the Wemic Wednesday October 10th, 2001 10:03:05 AM
Looking toward Ceira he says,"The ways of the gods are not to be known by the likes of me but I ask you what unity did we demonstrate. Half ran ahead eager for battle not waiting for the appointed leader to direct their actions. We showed no effort to work together for in truth we did not know what it was that we were to do to succeed. As for our "victory" we defeated no one, they defeated themselves. Yet in their defeat they showed unity for they all "cheated" together. If there was a victory here it was by the will of our great god and not by our actions. I would not question the will of our god to do what is right but our people will not learn to live together without choosing that path themselves after many trials and tests" rising to his feet he returns down the tunnel he entered by.
Later with the feast plans announced Kalon quickly dismissed the groomers before attending to his own bathing and grooming. The heaviness in his soul not lessened by the comforts around him. Closing his eyes he feels his spirit return to the open savannah of his home. His feet upon the grass as he runs freely. The walls around him and the city around the walls no longer constraining him. For the time before the banquet he sits in this form of meditation. Feeling no joy over what occured today. He removes his amulet from his neck staring at it. "What will we become oh mighty Tomi if we cannot learn to stand on our own. To make our own choices to stand as brothers. Not because of your will but because of our own. You are our great father and wise beyond all here on this world but we cannot always rely on your wisdom alone. We must learn our own wisdom if we are to survive"he prays to the wind so absent from this place.
When the council arrives he is lost in his troubled thoughts and follows after the group.
Leets Wednesday October 10th, 2001 1:19:17 PM
The young paladin gladly takes his equipement back, and thanks the one who has been cleaning it.
Leets will only wear his blue tunic without his chainmail for the feast. While waiting with his friends before the doors, he looks both nervous and at the same time he can't wait seeing what the feast will look like, which people will be there, what all will have to do, and many more questions...Finally, he is simply happy to have a good time with his fellows taurs.
Flat-top Wednesday October 10th, 2001 3:47:24 PM
Flat-top bathes and groom and powders and polishes and so on andso on... Until he feels like a new colt. Dresses in his old armor, including his Morning Star(That Domi gave at the calling)around his neck. Out of his room and into the hall, where he meets with Ceira,"Ahhh! What a beautiful Wemic we have here, would you do me the favor of accompany me to the Banquet? Besides let's show them that Centaur and Wemic are Taur too." With this said, Flat-top holds out his arm for Ceira to take. Then into the banquet hall they enter.
Ceira Karwyn Wednesday October 10th, 2001 8:32:02 PM
Ceira exerts an awful lot of effort in preparing for the banquet. She spends several minutes picking out only the best shampoos, skin creams, brushes and other miscellaneous ointments that are provided. After a few hours of cleaning and grooming, she steps out of her room wearing a cherry red dress.
"Ahh! Greetings Flat-top and thank you for the compliments." Noticing the outstretched arm, she continues, "Thank you. I would be honored." and takes his arm as they march out into the hall for all to see.
Kenisha Wednesday October 10th, 2001 11:29:17 PM
Kenisha bathes and rebraids her hair, making sure that the five braids on the very top of her head contain only her white locks of hair. She dresses in her off-white tunic, puts the ring from Domi back on her finger and goes to join the others.
She smiles at Flat-top's over-the-top flattery and frowns a bit at Kalon's silent thoughtful face, but says nothing as she follows the with the others into the banquet.
Raorr the Confused Minotaur Thursday October 11th, 2001 2:36:53 AM
Raorr walks silently out of the field and waits for the banquet to be announced and arrives with the group.
Raorr looks at the group and then says "Do you realize I haven't killed something in at least a week, I'm going crazy with all this structured combats, no violence for sake of Violence, no one on one combat, nothing not even a barfight." Raorr touches his forearm noting the virgin hide still has no blood stains yet "I got this armour, I want blood. Of course I'll wait, as always. Raorr must wait and let Domi guide us like children. I'll behave, but I warn you now one anything provokes me I break, got it?"
Eat drink and be merry (DM Carl) Thursday October 11th, 2001 5:43:30 AM
The open air feast that night is beyond your wildest imaginings. Back home on the islands some have seen fine meals, but nothing to rival this evening’s festivities. Musicians, entertainers, dancers, fireworks and food fit for the gods all intermingle in a joyous maelstrom of colour, sound and laughter. It is more like some great festival than a meal. The joining of the races in brotherhood (and sisterhood) under one God is a profoundly joyous occasion, and the Chosen at are the centre of it all.
Kalon, lost in thought, is startled to realise that he has attracted attention. As he comes out of his reverie he notices a white bearded old centaur, with a wise and merry twinkle in his eye has been watching him. "What troubles you my son?" the centaur asks. Their resulting philosophical debate is lengthy, passionate, and ends in strong mutual admiration. "All I'm saying" laughs Palindale the centaur in closing, "is that it is not for the likes of us to know the wills of the Gods. Perhaps the lesson was that sometimes all you need is the courage to stand up for what you believe in, that fighting isn't always neccessary to achieve success. Perhaps Domi has some greater plan in play, or perhaps his intent was to get us talking! Now lighten up, my friend! Take pleasure in these celebrations in your honour!"
Roarr is formally invited to participate in the Minotaur sparring tourny. He participates in several bouts of the savage no holds barred combat, scoring many a deciding blow with his horns and fists. The attending clerics have their work cut out healing up those he has defeated. The Final is a spectacular affair; cheering crowds, an enormous opponent, quick and clever and strong. In the end, though outmatched in speed and skill, Roarr triumphs, surviving blow after blow through sheer will power and refusal to quit. His opponent finally topples to the mud and Roarr is proclaimed victor to raptuous cheering. Healed by the Brothers Roarr returns to the High Table where the rest of the Chosen have a place of honour, bearing his gold winner's medal.
Much laughing, flirting, and joy fill the night air.
Kale d20+6=20 Thursday October 11th, 2001 9:15:35 AM
"This isnt for me." Kale mutters to himself as he tries to move through the crowd unnoticed back to where he dressed for the party(move silently roll of 20)
Kenisha Thursday October 11th, 2001 9:43:02 AM
While watching Raorr fight, Kenisha asks one of the coucilmembers about the sacred game they almost got to play.
"I am very interested in learning more about it. How did it get strted? Also, and please don't be offended, but what precisely are the rules? We were told tht we had to move the balls from the center to our goal, but we didn't know which one of the two was our goal."
Raorr the Victorious Minotaur d20-2=5 d20+3=4 Thursday October 11th, 2001 3:28:24 PM
Raorr returns to the table and sits down relaxing "Now that got the blood pumping"
Raorr looks contemplative for a moment and then says "I think our purpose in Lankmar is finished, The whole part about Honor and the Truth, this day was definetly able to cover it." He looks at the festive Zeoll, whose probably banging on his drums and singing a song (my guess) and asks him "So Zeoll what was the exact lines the prophet girl gave us for Lankmar?"
Raorr's mood seems very relaxed now and he's lost the dumb barbarian look however when he touches his armour he grins he moves it over to see that Leets? That's tough Rhino Hide armor, and now it's bloodied, I'm ready for any fight now." Raorr bellow a cheerful yell into the air. "Feels good to be alive"
Raorr approaches the coupe of Flat-Top and Ceira "I see you two are comfortable, get up go out there show them you're not afraid of mixing taurs, be an example not a spectator"
Noting the old Centaur leaving the WEmic behind, Raorr approaches Kalon "So has my soul-friend learned anything that he could teach a wild Minotaur like myself? Did ya see me fight, almost lost that last match, I'm sure I broke something in my chest, but the healers fixed it up nicely."
As the Evening ends, or the sun rises RAorr will finally approach Kenisha "So are we going to deal with the Bad Lady or we gonna continue our journey elsewhere?"
OOC: Roll of 5 was to a Spot roll, but forgot I needed a Listen roll for Move Silently... result is 4 (of course, a botch).
Flat-top Thursday October 11th, 2001 3:32:35 PM
When entering the open air Festive Area, every body there was having a great time eating, talking and the games (that Raorr loved so much). But Flat-top thought that they needed more mixing of the Taurs. Since the music was so beautiful that Flat-top ask Ceira for a dance. "Come Ceira, let's dance together and show them How two different taur can dance together. " So off they go in the middle of the dance floor and started the Four Step and then go into the Jitter Paw. It was not too long when a hamsome Miniature Interrupted Flat-top to ask Ceira "Would err I mean err Could I have this Dance with you? Please?" Flat-top wink at Ceira and whispered' Go get them Girl.' Flat-top bowed at Ceira. "Here you go, You Good Looking Bull you!" Them off he goes to drink, Eat and have fun with the rest of his party.
Kalon the Wemic Thursday October 11th, 2001 7:39:31 PM
Shaking his head at the departing centaur he looks up when Raorr speaks to him,"I only saw a little of your fights. You fought like an epic hero from a storyteller's tale. However you rely on the same headlong charge all the time. Someday somebody will turn that on you my friend and hurt you severely" he shakes his head again as he looks out at the merriment around,"This is an illusion we have not learned anything. We like children have been told what we should do and we obey like children. Our great god's will and plan are certainly a mystery to me but if it could be turned so easily by our god why was it not done long ago. I am in no mood to revel the others feel that we won a great victory and that this revel surrounding us is because of something we did. I do not feel we have done anything to warrant such an event as this."
Kalon paused his eyes falling upon Kenisha, "Perhaps I will go ask Kenisha to dance my friend" he claps the big minotaur on his shoulder,"Congratulations on your victory"
Walking away from Raorr he goes to where Kenisha sits talking to some of the council. Waiting for a break in the conversation he bows deeply toward her,"May I have this dance fair Kenisha?"
Zeoll Thursday October 11th, 2001 7:54:17 PM
Zeoll struggles to remember the words of the girl that kale told teh group. But his good memory kicks in, and he recites, "Wanderr the strreets with naught to see But this child with a prrophecy. Infidels within must sufferr theirr fate Whilst believerrs trravel thrrough a gate. Play the tune for the key to be found Then the Chosen will soon be Lankhmarr-bound. Honorr is all forr a cause that's just, The trruth will prevail, as it must..."
"Not much left to do therre I think," Zeoll adds.
"I know that events seem to move most quickly, and it seems that change happens in ourr despite. But so it must be, I have been taught, when the gods so will."
...For tomorrow we die (DM carl) Friday October 12th, 2001 4:46:45 AM
Dancing and conversation continue into the night. Kenisha realises her mistake in asking about Kok'Annar; she has great difficulty in escaping the seemingly endless barrage of details about the game on offer. Kale, unimpressed with the festivities, slips away back to the apartments.
Despite the heady swell of reconciliation and unity, there remains one dark undercurrent that will not be silenced. The party cannot help but overhear a recurring theme emerge in the conversation as the evening wears on.
Bodies, it seems, are being exhumed. The wave of graverobbing that has been sweeping Lankhmar for weeks has extended beyond its human population. Centaurs, minotaurs, even wemics are no longer safe in their graves. Someone, it would appear, has been stealing the bodies of the dead. The party, in positions of honour at the High table of the Dual Council, are informed that spies and informers point towards an establishment known as the Journey’s End as a possible link in this dark chain. Suspicion has fallen on its owner, one Mistress Maldreen.
When the Chosen relate the tale of young Rissa and her dreams of ‘the bad lady’, the venerable Minotaur cleric (who informs you that his name is Kranak) grows solemn. “This girl knew of you and your actions, you say? She must be blessed by Great Domi Himself. Truly she has the Sight. And she has named this Maldreen as the one you must seek?” He rises, suddenly flustered.
“Chosen, your path is clear; you must seek this woman out without delay! In keeping you here we have been guilty of obstructing Domi’s Holy Will! My most sincere apologies!”
And so, having picked up Kale and their remaining gear from the apartments, the Taurs find themselves making their way through the (still busy, even at this late hour) moonlit streets of great Lankhmar, heading once more for the Journey’s End.
Kale Friday October 12th, 2001 9:27:37 AM
"No rest for the weary." Kale says. "But at least we're in my element."
Flat-top(one for the road) Friday October 12th, 2001 10:23:57 AM
Flat-top, after hearing that they are going the quest (the one they came hare to do). Flat-top grabs a goblet of very good wine and off he goes to Kale's apartment and knocks. When Kale opens the door, Flat-top gives him one of the goblet, "Well my friend, we are on the march. But before we leave, one drink for those who are about to die." They both drink and picks up their gear. Off they go to Journey's End.
Raorr the Minotaur d20+7=10 8d6(4+1+5+2+6+6+6+4)+12=46 d20-2=17 Sunday October 14th, 2001 2:50:21 AM
Raorr cheerfully places his gold medal in his pack for safe keeping, while he walks with the group.
"So our next foe has chosen to steal the bodies of the dead" He says to the rest, grimly he adds "I don't like it, but the situation seems very grave, indeed"
Raorr stops after saying that. turns to his left and looks up "sorry about that". He then continues back with the group. Upon arriving Raorr will offer to burst through the front door. If allowed he charge head first into the door.
OOC: First roll is attack vs. the door. I believe is the door's AC is 4 (10 - Dex [no Dex -5] -Size [large -1]) with a 10 should hit. Second roll is damage for the attack. Damage is 8d6+12(4d6+6 head butt charge doubled due to Rhino Hide armour) dealing a massive 46 Hit points.
I believe the door's toast...Minotaur Style!
Have Fun
BTW Third Roll is spot roll of 17, to see the startled faces of the people inside :)
Leets Sunday October 14th, 2001 5:19:36 AM
"Maldreen...I just feel like we'll remember of this name for a long time..."
Says the young centaur paladin while troting along the streets.
"So here we ar.." Leets watches Raorr "opening" the door, and smiles.
"I think we can enter now..."
Leets makes a couple of steps forward and looks inside the building.
OOC: using "detect evil"
Zeoll Sunday October 14th, 2001 6:00:23 PM
Zeoll follows Kenisha's lead, entering with the group.
Kenisha d20+3=20 Monday October 15th, 2001 1:38:52 AM
Kenisha smothers a laugh with a cough and answers Leets, "So I gather. That's using your ehad, Roarr. Everyone be on your hooves, I mean... well you know what I mean."
Kenisha will follow the Minotaur cautiously and looking around.(the roll above is a spot check)
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