Threshold of Change Tuesday February 5th, 2002 11:35:35 AM
At first, everybody enjoys a small break from the craziness of recent days. The Shady Vale is a refuge, and it is a pleasant place to take a breather, meditate, do homely chores, and chat with Janiss. Sly and his girlfriend are having a lovely time in each other's companyBut in Threshold, things are deteriorating.
In the streets, doomsayers and street preachers are common, and they all say the same thing: "The End of the Wold is coming!" Everyday folks seem to be taking this message to heart, judging by the large crowds that gather to listen.
Altemia finds the woods and fields outside Threshold more relaxing than the town itself -- although the handfuls of people leaving Threshold, and the Void to the south, combine to give her a sense of unease. [OOC: Altemia can get a common Animal Friend here with no problem; or a trip to the Black Genie Center is also a way to obtain an Animal Friend.]
Sir Thomas, in his visits to the Temple of Alemi, finds a disquieting trend -- groups of people are gathering outside the temple each day to chant slogans blaming Alemi for recent problems and chaos. Kimble the Kind doesn't know what to make of this, but he believes that someone is inciting these folks.
Ilsidur discovers that a new Power is being worshipped in Threshold, simply called "The Power of Power." The followers of this being are promising help and escape from the End of the Wold. Moreover, several town leaders and powerful people have been attracted to this new Power of Power, and a new temple is under construction.
Moreover, the feud between the followers of Caeroldra (following Isabel the cleric in green) and those of The Goddess (among them, Joshua, the cleric in blue), has descended into violence. A number of Love Cultists have been killed, and the clerics of Caeroldra have won control over the Temple of Love. Joshua and his folk have gone underground.
There is a sense of lawlwssness in the streets, and city guards are not always about when one would expect them.
Uteva and Trace avoid getting caught up in this mess, with a couple close calls. The followers of The Goddess, however, see them as friends, and Uteva has been invited to visit their secret safe house. She is most welcome there, and her songs are very well received indeed.
One day, about a week after they first came to the Shady Vale, Joshua visits the Shady Vale. He is visibly worried. It seems a street preacher has found the safe house, and is offering his help, but Joshua is worried about his intent.
"Would you all come to our Secret House," he asks, "In order to help us judge the words of this prophet?"
Sir Thomas Tuesday February 5th, 2002 11:54:50 AM
Speaking first, and hopefully for the group, Thomas offers this, "We will be glad to help in any way that we can." Thomas follows Joshua to the safehouse. He leaves Pryte-Honos saddled and ready to go incase they should run into trouble and need the steed's help.
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday February 5th, 2002 3:11:35 PM
"Vanesia and I will be ready in a moment, and leave with you to your Secret House. After we do our best with the prophet, I would like to ask a favor of you and Joshua?" ask Sly. "Come Luke! Vanesia you gather your things and be ready to leave in a few minutes. Then turns to Trace and asks,"Big Brother can you do me a favor by letting Vanesia ride behind you? It's only ti'll we get there, Please." Sly give him his little smile/smerk and wonders *I wonder if I can trust him? He's pretty good with the ladies. *
Ael d'Gaiaim Tuesday February 5th, 2002 9:22:51 PM
Ael spends a great deal of time with Gaius and his housekeeper, closeted away discussing what may be occuring. He is curious to know if his mentor plans to leave Threshold, or remain, come what may. He also shows the wizard the mark on his hand.
He also assists Ilsidur in identifying the items found, and even spends an evening drinking with his new dwarven friends! After all, there is nothing like a cantrip to cool a mug of beer.
(OOC: Unpleasantness at work again; if I have to miss another day I will email and ask for a substitute.)
Uteva d20+2=6 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 12:10:37 AM
"This fellow just stumbled across your Secret House?" she asks Joshua. "That's suspicious all on its own. Lead the way."
Teva follows along, musing over the possible motivations of this street prophet. She is too preoccupied to pay much attention to their surroudings. (Spot=6)
Trace and Radiant Wednesday February 6th, 2002 12:39:22 AM
Trace and Radiant saddel up shadow for a journey next to Sir Thomas horse and pays the stable hand for the care. "Sly, I will carry Vanesia on Shadow but you will have to walk with Uteva since she is my normal rideing partner. I'm sure she will understand. Untill then, lets follow the others to see what we can do."
Ilsidur Wednesday February 6th, 2002 12:42:55 AM
Ilsidur swings his pack over his shoulder and follows the party towards the safe house of the Power of Love.
The Doomsayer (DM Cayzle) Wednesday February 6th, 2002 10:30:35 AM
Ael catches his old master, Gaius, in a reflective mood. "Moving away? No, this is a nothing, a trifle," he answers. "Remembering the days of darkness behind us, I think this is not much to worry about. People seldom mention it, but I recall when Threshold, along with the towns of Abandon and Wane, were consumed by the Void and absorbed by the Vague Lands. Stalking the night there were vampires and werewolves and worse -- we were lucky to escape -- luckier than Abandon and Wane, still mourning in the Void."
"Comparing that with these new rumors, I do not have much fear."
Gaius looks at the spiral pattern on Ael's hand. He pauses a long time before he speaks. "In a shadow of a memory of a life now past, or in a fragment of from a tome now turned to dust, I have seen something like this. Being an omen of power, this betokens ... what? a Bell? A Chaos Bell? But what that means, I cannot say."
Later, Ael joins the group in time to hear Joshua's request. All agree, so with Trace and Vanesia on Shadow (And Sir Thomas on Prytte? Or is the warhorse left at the Shady Vale?), the group sets out across town. On the way, in a largish square, a tall muscular man with no shirt on is preaching to a crowd of 20 or 30 common people.
"Threshold is done for! The end is soon to come! Darkness is upon us all! Are not the evil cultists of lechery already preaching their foul perversions in the Temple where Love once reigned? The temple-house of Alemi is besieged, and the forces of goodness are trapped! Dark Powers hold sway, and the end times approach! All you of good faith, all true folk of noble heart, now is the time to flee! There is no cowardice in running from the volcano, from the flood, from the drowning wave! Depart! While you can still save your loved ones!"
Everybody, please make a spot check.
Sir Thomas d20=4 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:38:40 PM
Originally having planned to leave Pryte-Honos in the comfort of the stable Thomas changes his mind when Trace brings shadow. So Thomas now has quite a vantage for sight being so tall compared to the crowd. However, upon hearing what the man is saying Thomas becomes consumed with a response for the pessimist and does not notice anything amiss. (Rolled 4. I don't know my modifier, but I doubt it will get me far with the roll that it supplements.)
He also holds his tongue for the time being despite having at least a very accurate and passionate retort for the man.
Sly Foxx and Luke d20+4=18 Wednesday February 6th, 2002 1:41:33 PM
OOC: spot check 18, did I make it?
Sly smiles at Vanesia and help her on the horse, to Trace "All right, I'll do just that and I hope Uteva will like the idea." Sly walks beside Uteva, "I don't like the crowds around here," and watches the crowd. "I don't like this talk of vampires, werewolves and the likes. Give me the chills. You see anything."
Uteva d20+2=21 Thursday February 7th, 2002 12:13:57 AM
"Well, I'll give this fellow marks for effort. He certainly has a gift for exaggeration." Teva rolls her eyes and keeps scanning their surroundings for trouble. (Spot=21)
Altemia d20+9=21 Thursday February 7th, 2002 12:50:34 AM
Altemia joins the others on the trip to the safe house. She slows as they near the speaker and a wry grin crosses her face.
"I think we've heard this before."
She takes a look around (Spot 21) hoping that no trouble is about to start.
Trace and Radiant d20+9=19 Thursday February 7th, 2002 2:07:38 AM
Trace moves shadow closer to the crowd while Radiant flutters from time to time to keep a good balance. He then rises a bit to take a look at who is in the crowd (rolled 19).
A Lurker Spotted (DM Cayzle) d20+10=16 d20+12=32 d20+2=22 Thursday February 7th, 2002 10:16:45 AM
Sly, Uteva, Altemia, and Trace all spot a suspicious-looking fellow hiding in the mouth of a nearby alley. A common footpad? An enemy of the preacher? A love cultist? He's not doing a very good job of hiding -- even Joshua notices him -- so maybe he's trying to be obvious?He is wearing a soft leather jerkin and has a long dagger at his belt.
To Trace, the crowd itself is mostly shoppers, goodwives, apprentices, porters, and a couple people of indeterminate profession. Nothing out of the ordinary.
Either way, Joshua sees the preacher and the lurker as delays. "Please," he pleads, "ignore these distractions and come with me! My heart worries that disaster awaits if we dally!"
Flat-top and Luke Thursday February 7th, 2002 4:14:01 PM
"Oh! Uteva do you see that odd looking man over there." Sly points to the man in the near by alley. "Tell me is he trying to hide and he's not doing a very good job at it. Or is he going to try something out here in broad day light?" Sly bends and tell Luke to watch the stranger. "there's not much you can do untill he pulls that dagger ot of his belt." Sly will follow Joshua and the rest of the party.
Altemia d20+9=17 Thursday February 7th, 2002 10:07:34 PM
Altemia continues to watch to lurker and the crowd (Spot 17) just to make sure nothing is happening. She moves to the back of the group as they are following Joshua, so that she can watch longer.
Ael d'Gaiaim Thursday February 7th, 2002 10:10:44 PM
Unswayed by the self-proclaimed prophet, Ael's trust in Gaius' insight is solid. These months have seen everyone change - not the least of whom, the scholar.
Those who were with the party when he came to Hook city would say that he seems quieter now, more reserved, and less prone to droning lectures. He has seen the folly of his own darker urges, and become more serious for it.
He ignores all distractions, following Joshua with his thoughts turned inward.
Trace and Radiant Friday February 8th, 2002 12:09:47 AM
Trace cracks a smile. He then kicks his horse closer to the crowd just enough to make them look at him and then he sends Radiant, "Radiant, go to the man and back." Trace sends Radiant while pointing at the man trying to remain unseen. "Look everyone, my friend here loves to show off his flying ability." Depending on what happens next, if everyone or most of see the man, "Ok, we can carry on." If they still dont see him Trace will try a more direct approach, "Look there, who is that?"
Uteva Friday February 8th, 2002 10:46:49 AM
"Good thinking, Trace." Teva turns her head back to give the elf a wink. "Let's move on to the sa -- er -- on to our destination, then."
At the Safe Love House (DM Cayzle) Friday February 8th, 2002 1:21:33 PM
Trace's trick with Radient, makes the lurker turn red and run back deep into the alley.
The group turns to follow Joshua, and at length he leads the group to the back of a tannery. Evidently, based on the smell, it was also at one time a slaughterhouse. The horses are quickly stabled on the first floor, in stalls that have more often seen animals enter than leave.
The second floor, however, is empty and unused by the work downstairs, and has been converted to a dormatory and makeshift temple for about 40 devout followers of The Goddess. There are a couple of priests, a few fighters, and many temple workers and followers. Elbow grease, herbs, and perhaps some simple magic has purged most of the smell and dust.
The refuge is a huge open space. Blankets hung along the sides serve as makeshift walls for privacy. A simple altar has been set up on one side. A big central area is filled with makeshift chairs. Rushes and mats cover the floors. Newly-polished windows let in much light.
In the middle of this central area is a wild-eyed figure who is urging the people here to sneak away while they can. "I fear in my heart that enemies and worse are approaching! Please, I beg of you, no good is coming to this place. You must go!"
"In dreams I saw this place attacked, and I was sent to bring you all out of danger! And now I know I dreamed true, because in my dream I saw elves and a dwarf, and a bird and a dog such as this!" He points to Radiant and Luke. "The only think missing from my dream were two horses!"
Joshua is not sure what to think. "He made no mention of you before. I'm not sure what to believe!"
Sly Foxx and Luke Sunday February 10th, 2002 4:00:26 PM
"Look! Uteva, at what Big Brother did," Then sly yells at the bird,"Go get them Radiant!". Them he continue to follow Joshua to the tannery. Once there Sly meet up with Vanesia, "Thank you Trace. Now let's go in here, I guess we'll get use to the smell."
Sly, Vanesia and Luke go up the stairs and into the large Room. "Well, it smells better in here." Whispers Sly. They sit down together and Listens to what is being said. not making judgment one way or another until he has a chance to hear from the rest of the party.
Trace and Radiant d20+9=22 Sunday February 10th, 2002 11:50:35 PM
Trace and Radiant move into the building after hitching shadow. Trace says nothing, only staying within reach of the group and keeping an eye out for anything suspicous. (spot check-rolled 22)
Uteva d20+10=21 Monday February 11th, 2002 12:05:30 AM
Teva approaches the wild-eyed man, concern writ across her freckled features, her demeanor calm. "Are you certain that today is the day you dreamed? Can you tell us in detail about your vision?" She watches him carefully, trying to judge whether he believes his own words or is tricking them somehow. (Sense Motive=21)
Altemia d20+9=27 Monday February 11th, 2002 3:35:29 AM
Altemia watches the people listening to the "prophet" to see if any of the people there are being swayed by his words (Spot 27).
The Words of the Wild-Eyed Man (DM Cayzle) Monday February 11th, 2002 9:45:11 AM
Uteva senses that the man is sincere, but there is something more that makes her nervous. "Is he mad?" she wonders.
The people listening are getting nervous. A number are packing possessions and weapons and getting ready to leave.
The wild-eyed man turns, and points to the windows. "Look! Already doom approaches!"
In the near distance, the sun glints on a crowd of people -- glints as on armor and blades!
Joshua shouts out, "BAR THE DOORS!" Several people rush off downstairs.
[Make Spot checks to get a better idea of who/what is out there.]
Sly Foxx and Luke d20+3=23 Monday February 11th, 2002 10:47:53 AM
OOC: rolled a 23, I think I made it.
Sly get's up,picks up his sword and shield. "Vanesia, please take care of my back pack for me, please. Get into the far side of the room and stay there." Then Sly bends down and kisses Vanesia on the cheek, whispering "Don't look, I have to go to work. Waite for me."
Sly turns and joins the rest of the party. "Luke! Come! We have work to do."
Sir Thomas d20=6 Monday February 11th, 2002 2:44:48 PM
(Rolled 6 for spot. I don't know my modifier. I think it's probably +2. Safe to assume failure I think)
At the mention of trouble and barring of the doors Thomas glances outside to see what caused the rucus. He doesn't make out much in the little time he looks though. THe sight of sun on metal is enough to send him to the stables for Pryte-Honos. "If there is to be a fight, I don't want you couped up in some little stable stall." Following blindly for the present time, Thomas helps fortify the doors. "What do you see up there?" He shouts to his friends.
Altemia d20+9=20 Monday February 11th, 2002 9:11:57 PM
Altemia takes a look out the window to get a better idea of what or who is coming (Spot 20).
"Great...just what we needed. A welcoming committee."
Knowing it won't do too much good right now, she still pulls her sling from her waist and takes a hand of bullets.
Ilsidur d20+4=14 Monday February 11th, 2002 10:04:15 PM
Ilsidur takes a quick look out the window at the approaching crowds [OOC: spot 14]. He turns and hurries over to Joshua. "Well, it seems we have thrown our lot in with you, Joshua. Can you fill us in on what is going on? Who are those people approaching? Are they evil, or merely misguided? And who is this wild-eyed person here, that has seen us coming? Do you trust him?"
Once he has received his answers from Joshua, he hurries downstairs and plants himself near the most obvious entrance, readying himself for the approaching attack. He loads his crossbow, and crouches down behind his shield. If there is anyone downstairs organizing the defense, he changes locations as ordered.
He shouts over to Sir Thomas, "Sir Tom, these people approaching may not all be of evil intent, but just following a mistaken path. Can you scan them whenever you get the chance, and we can target the evil ringleaders? If we face anyone that is not evil, I suggest we use the flats of our weapons, and take them prisoner."
[OOC: Cayzle, if we are going to have combat here, I would appreciate a map, so that I can place Ilsidur.]
Trace and Radiant Tuesday February 12th, 2002 2:01:40 AM
Trace grins as he can feel the adrinlin begining to pump in his veins while his senses and reflexes sharpen. While moveing over to Utevas side he touches Radiant and chants, "Dmass"(magic fang +1 to attack and dmg). He nuges Uteva, "Hey Teva, trouble follows us link stink on a skunk. Even though I have fun useing my god giving skills in battle I cant help to feel that this is trouble. Like this might be something that were not ready for. Just a feeling I have but it is enough where I am not holding back. I think it's honorable for Ilsdur to fight with the flat of his weapons to save the innocent but I'm not going to chance it. This just dont feel right." Trace moves Radint to his sholder and draws his swords while moving to protect the people. While he waits and listens to danger approach, he shakes his head and wonders how they ended up here in the middle of this fight.
Uteva Tuesday February 12th, 2002 10:09:09 AM
The freckled bard nods her agreement with Trace while she prepares her bow. "I'll take high ground," she says. Teva looks for an upper window that will allow her to sight on targets at the door, while still putting her fairly close to the stairs.
Ael d'Gaiaim Tuesday February 12th, 2002 5:57:51 PM
Ael sighs and doublechecks his equipment, making sure that his crossbow is available.
"I, too, am ready to fight if need be. And yet, Joshua, should we not make certain of motives before expecting attack? ...Or do you know things of which you have not yet spoken?"
(OOC: How long has it been since Ael cast his armor spell?)
Beseiged! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:02:44 PM
I'm really sorry this is so late today -- blame the maps! _________________________________
Outside, it is now clear that a large mob of at least 100 has entered the market square outside the old slaughterhouse. It consists of unarmored folks and armed fighters, about in equal measure. Sly and Altemia note about 10 leaders: a handful of Servants of Love, lead by Isabel, and several clerics garbed in black cloaks. Make a Knowledge (Religion) or an Int check to recognize them as Priests of Death.
The mob is close to surrounding the slaughter house, but no attempt has yet been made to enter.
On the second level (the only level with windows), Ael, Altemia, and Uteva are watching, ready with missile weapons or spells. [Ael, if you want to cast Armor, that's fine. The other spell wore off -- it is days later, now.] The windows present no obstacle to missile fire, because the mob is throwing rocks at them!
The followers of The Goddess (including Vanesia) who are on the second floor cry out when the window-glass is shattered. Most lie down on the floor. Children are crying. Aside from a few tiny cuts, no one has been hit yet.
Downstairs on the first level, Sir Thomas and several others bar the doors. Both warhorses are down here, in stalls (see map). There are no windows on this level, but the angry growl of the mob is easy to hear, not to mention the sound of rocks hitting the building and its windows.
Joshua answers Ilsidur as quickly as he can. "Those are the Cultists of Caeroldra, our enemies, now. I thought this was a safe place, but we have been revealed. Only those few of us faithful to Alemi and The Goddess are here -- the majority went to the side of lechery! And now they are aligned with Death against us! Surely they mean to kill us all as a hideous sacrifice."
"As for this preacher, I know not what or who he is, but he came here saying he wanted to help us," Joshua adds. He goes to the ground floor to join the 15 or so Love cultists, poorly armored, ready to make a stand if the mob breaks down the doors.
Trace, wondering how the group has gotten into all this, also moves to the ground floor to prepare for attack. Luke and Sly join him.
The voice of the wild-eyed preacher resounds through all of the crying and the sound of the mob ...
"DOOM IS UPON YOU, BUT I WILL SAVE YOU! IT IS FOR THIS THAT I HAVE COME! DOWNSTAIRS! DOWNSTAIRS! ALL MUST GO DOWNSTAIRS TO THE GROUND FLOOR!"
He continues to urge everyone on the second floor to go downstairs. About half of the people there obey him, coming down to the ground level, where they huddle near the stalls. _________________________________
And now, everybody, the time-consuming-to-create maps!
Click on the link that reads "YOA Scene 7: A Love Cultist Safe House."
Sly Foxx and Luke d20+3=17 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:52:19 PM
Sly takes a look out side and don't like the look of some people down there. When the rock start braking the windows, Sly yells to Vanesia "Come down stairs with me, your not safe here. besides I think your father is out there." Sly take her by the hand, down the stairs they go (all three of them. Right after Sir Thomas and Trace.
Once down stairs Sly will hide Vanesia (southwest) under the stairwell and next to the last stall. Sly will put some boxes in frount of Vanesia and tells her not to move or scream until he comes back foe her.
"Come, Luke, we have work to do." Sly will go to stand next to trace and Sir Thomas for further orders.
Altemia Tuesday February 12th, 2002 9:00:37 PM
Altemia looks at the other two Southern Lighters still on the second floor with her.
"What do we have to lose besides our lives? I don't think we are going to do much good up here. Not against all those," she says pointing at the mob.
She begins to round up some of the other faithful and take them downstairs with her.
Looking over her shoulder at the other, "Coming?"
Sir Thomas d20=1 d20=12 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 9:12:38 PM
(Rolled 1 +5 Religion Knowledge mod = 6)
Since Thomas does not have access to any windows to see outside he does not really comprehend what the others are describing to him about who is besieging them. "There are too many doors down here, and not enough to fortify them with." Thomas informs the others. "Here's what we need to do. All of the women and children and anyone who is NOT going to fight get into the stall closest to the stairs. My horse, Pryte-Honos can protect you there. He can block the stable so that no one can get in without fighting him. If the fighting gets to close then you will go upstairs and that will be our rally point. We cannot protect ourselves from all sides at once; we need to limit their entrance capabilities. Any ideas about how to do that?"
Thomas racks his brain thinking of how the few of them can handle the onslaught of so many. "Bring the chairs down from upstairs." Thomas runs up the stairs, takes a look outside to quickly assess the situation, and brings two chairs with him when he returns. "Anyone else feeling deja vu? Too bad we don't have those wagons this time. I think if we can stop them from entering from the four single doors to the north then we can funnel them through the bottleneck of the two double doors to the southeast." He stacks the chairs in front of the northern doors and goes back upstairs.
Thomas does note Isable among those in the crowd. He thinks, "maybe she'll return the favor." He tells his friends he is going to try to reason with the mob. Thomas raises his shield and kneels next to a window so that he is covered by the wall to his side and his shield to the front. [OOC: My intent is to be at least 3/4 covered while looking out the window, but I would prefer more than that. ;-)] "Isabel!" He calls down. "It is nice to see you again." There is no lovey-dovey tone to his voice, pure business this time. "May I ask why you have come around these parts on such a fine day? I might be able to help you and we should have to fight this time." (Rolled 12 + 10 Diplomacy mod = 22 for Diplomacy)
[OOC: Note, if I have any moves left this round or whatever I'd like to detect evil on the crowd or if that's too much then on certain evil looking individuals.]
Ilsidur Wednesday February 13th, 2002 12:10:59 AM
Ilsidur moves to the bottom of the stairs and calls up to Sir Thomas, "Sir Tom, let us know what you find! If anyone out there tries to climb in one of the windows, let us know and a couple of us will come up to help you hold the stairs!"
Then Ilsidur starts to pile boxes in front of the 4 doors along the north wall.
Trace and Radiant Wednesday February 13th, 2002 2:14:41 AM
Trace sheaths his swords and arms his bow as he sprints upstairs. "All that have bows or cross bows or any other missle weapon come up stairs and be ready to repell the raiders. All others bar the doors except for one for possible escape. Hopefully we can take out the Jade and whatever spell she might have on some of the followers will even out the odds a bit. She must be our target before all others. Sir Thomas will try and talk us out of this but if his diplomacy dosent work we need to even out the odds quickly. If we cut the head off the body will die." Trace readies his bow and trains his aim on the Jade figure waiting for Sir Thomas to give a yea or nay on an attack.
Uteva d20+8=12 d8=2 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 9:12:27 AM
"Altemia, wait!" Teva calls. When she catches up to the elf, she murmurs, "Keep a close eye on the fanatic, will you? I think he believes what he's saying, but something about him seems off. And I'm suspicious that he wants everyone downstairs when that mob could easily climb in through the undefended windows. I'm staying up here for now."
Louder, she shouts, "Everybody who's going down, take a chair or two with you, please. If any remain, you can pass them along like fire buckets." Teva chooses a window that puts her within 40ft of the center of the thickest cluster of Caeroldra's and the unfamiliar clerics (Bardic Knowledge=12 to recognize). She readies herself to scream into their midst if one or more begin casting. (Sound Burst, all within 10ft radius take 2hp sonic damage and make Will vs. DC 15 or be stunned for 1 round)
Altemia helps lead folks downstairs, some carrying chairs. Joshua gathers a few relics from the altar and also goes downstairs. On the ground floor, most huddle away from the doors, behind boxes and in the stalls. Pryte has to be careful not to step on anybody. About ten brave defenders help bar the doors and prepare for a fight.
Isildur directs the effort to pile chairs and boxes up against the doors. However, the mob is making no effort to enter.
Sir Thomas helps organize the defense downstairs and then goes upstairs for a look. He sees Isabel and calls out to her. She yells back, "Hah! Two mice caught in the same trap! How delightful." Turning to the men and women in arms near her, she shouts, "FIRE!"
Several vials of burning liquid -- a form of alchemical fire, evidently -- are thrown against the building and burst into flame.
Sir Thomas senses intense evil from most of the people in the crowd -- especially Isabel and the clerics in black.
Downstairs, the sound of vials breaking against the side provoke cries from the children now huddled in the stalls.
Trace leads a few archers upstairs, plus Sly and Luke. They find Uteva ready to cast a spell. The bard watches as Isabel starts to cast a spell of her own, and Uteva casts her Sound Blast, hoping to spoil whatever deviltry the cleric intends. Isabel is not stunned and her concentration is not broken by the Sonic Blast. After she is done, the people on the second floor see a great pillar of flame strike the side of the old slaughterhouse. This, and the vials still being thrown, are setting the old wood building alight.
Some of the archers let arrows fly out the broken windows, and a few strike home, judging by the cries from the crowd. This just seems to madden the mob, which roars.
Alerted by Uteva, Altemia stands by the stairs, watching the preacher. He has gone over to one side of the room, walking jerkily, as in a trance. He steps down into the shallow pit, leaving footprints in the dry brown dust that has gathered in the depression. He says, just loudly enough for Altemia to hear, "This is the place. This is where I must draw the door. This is the way to the escape." He takes out a skin and splashes water into the dust, making some mud.
If nothing is done to counter it, the building will really catch fire in about a minute. Soon after, maybe five or ten minutes later, the building will be aflame both inside and out. Within 20 minutes, it is doubtful that anyone will be left alive inside. If nothing is done, that is.
The mob outside seems content to wait. A chant can be heard rising from the crowd, "Come out, come out, and don't be shy! Come out, come out, or you will die!"
[Feel free to describe the next minute of action (10 rounds).]
Sly Foxx and Luke d20+5=25 d20+5=13 d20+5=16 d20+5=23 d20+5=24 d20+5=19 d20+5=7 d20+5=23 d20+5=21 d20+5=21 d20+5=8 d8=7 d8=3 d8=2 d8=1 d8=8 d8=3 d8=7 d8=2 d8=6 d8=4 d8=6 d8=8 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 4:39:02 PM
For the next ten rounds Sly will shot arrows and alternate between the Clerics in black and Isabel. Round 1 - rolled a critical hit 25, rolled a 13- Damages 7 - 3 - 2. Round 2 - Rolled 16 - damaged 1 (if any) Round 3 - Rolled 23 - damaged 8. Round 4 - rolled 24 - damaged 3. Round 5 - rolled 19 - damaged 7. round 6 - rolled 7 - damaged 2 (if any) Round 7 - rolled 23 - damaged 6. Round 8 - rolled 21 - damaged 4. Round 9 - rolled 21 - damaged 6. Round 10 - rolled 8 - damaged 8 (if any)
After a little battle Sly pets luke on the head, "We'll go soon Luke. Trace get your bird out of here. Uteva, How are you doing?"
Sir Thomas Wednesday February 13th, 2002 6:02:22 PM
Thomas sheaths his sword and pulls back from the window after the rain of molitov cocktails. "Diplomacy definately has its bounds. Trace, you might be interested to know that there is nothing but evil intention beyond the safety of these walls my friends. Also, we are in real trouble because these walls are not really that safe anymore, as you already know. I hope the sooth-sayer has a way out, as he stated, or we are all going to remain here indefinately." Thomas grabs one of the hanging blankets and begins to try to extinguish the flames with it. Then, almost as an afterthought he offers, "Get her Trace. Aim for her throat." Since he can't really attack he spends the entire next minute fighting flames and talking under his breath (not praying) to Alemi. "See us through this my Lord . . . Grant me strength . . . sustain me . . . "
Pryte-Honos is indeed careful not to step on anyone. He does not even flinch at the sounds of eminent war that are upon them all. He almost appears to be calculating his defense as he looks around the room and takes in all of the environment and fortification efforts.
Altemia d20+1=17 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 6:45:38 PM
Altemia continues to watch the man as he mutters to himself (Spellcraft 17) and splashes water around. It looks like a spell to her and she hopes that she can figure out what it is in time to either help him or stop him.
Trace and Radiant d20+8=25 d20+6=10 d20+8=20 d20+6=20 d20+8=16 d20+6=15 d20+8=22 d20+6=24 d20+8=18 d20+6=13 d20+8=25 d20+6=26 d20+8=22 d20+6=20 d20+8=15 d20+6=21 d20+8=12 d20+6=13 d20+8=25 d20+6=23 d6=6 d6=3 d6=4 d6=4 d6=2 d6=6 d6=5 d6=4 d6=5 d Thursday February 14th, 2002 3:05:04 AM
Trace dodges the viels being thrown and looks at Sir Thomas, "After I unload my arrows at her I am going to charge her on Shadow while everyone tries to escape the fire." With that Trace moves back to the window remaining half covered and methodicly lets loos 20 of his arrows down upon the Jade.
(ooc: I rolled damage for all my rolls as if they were hits to be easier)
After that Trace sprints downstaris and mounts Shadow. Trace looks up top to Sir Thomas, "If I fall and yall can......raise my body from the dead." Trace sits ontop of Radiant and draws his long sword.
Uteva (Levitation) d20+2=15 d20+9=29 d20=5 d20=8 d20=19 d20+3=14 Thursday February 14th, 2002 11:02:13 AM
"Daughter of a goat!" Teva curses as she runs downstairs. "Ilsidur, I need your rope! You." She points to one of the more spry-looking of the Goddess' people. "Find water. Keep bringing it up to the head of the stairs.
"Ilsidur, can you or Ael use the Trump Deck to take the children and elderly to the inn at Heranmar?" She grabs the rope from the dwarf's pack and conscripts two more people on her way back up. "You, grab a blanket and help Sir Thomas. Keep this area at the head of the stairs flame-free as long as possible." To the third person, she hands one end of the rope. "Tie this around the window frame and knot it well," she says, pointing to the window at the head of the stairs, then securing the other end around her own waist. "You're in charge of keeping it damped down. As soon as I wave to you from the other side, start sending people across."
With that, Teva drinks down her potion of Levitation and takes a running leap out through the broken window at the top of the stairs (Jump=15 to give her some airspeed). She drifts over the heads of the mob to "land" crouched against the side of the city wall (Tumble=29), where she uses fingers and toes to cling and keep from rebounding out of reach. (Used 2 Hero points to reroll ?Grapple=19 or ?Climb=22.) The floating bard then levitates to the top of the wall, secures the rope (Use Rope=14), and waves to her helper at the window to start sending refugees across.
If enough rope remains, she'll secure a second length in line with the next window over. Either way, she uses the strung rope to propell herself back to the burning building and helps further with flame-control and escape coordination.
Choices (DM Cayzle) d20+3=17 d20+3=7 d20+3=12 d20+3=22 d20+3=14 d20+3=9 d20+3=18 d20+3=15 d8=2 Thursday February 14th, 2002 12:10:13 PM
The hail of arrows from Sly, Trace, and several others with bows drives the mob back. Several people fall and lay still. A couple clerics are hit, healed, and helped off. The priests, including Isabel and her followers, take cover behind buildings and booths. The mob pull back, but not more than a round of running away, leaving five bodies in the open.
Trace feels sure he hit Isabel a few times, but did not kill her. Sly maybe did too.
Meanwhile, Sir Thomas and several others are valiently fighting the blaze, but they do no more than delay the inevitable slightly.
Altemia watches the wild-eyed man. Whatever he is doing, it looks magical, but it is no spell Altemia has heard of. He takes a handful of the mud he has made and smears it on the wall. He makes one long up and down streak, from seven feet up to the floor. Then he makes another, parallel, about four feet from the first. Then he connects them at the top, making a rectangle. He takes a black rock from a pocket and sticks it in the center vertically, but off to the left. The rock stays attached to the now-warm wall.
The preacher reaches out, grabs the rock, turns it, pulls, and the section of wall he has outlined opens like a door! Thin wan flickering pours into the room, and through the now-open doorway a shifting pattern of light reveals scenes of a new town -- scenes that flicker in and out, from one angle to another, changing every few seconds.
Trace comes downstairs, mounts Shadow, and considers the chance of a charge and assault. In the chaos, some could escape.
Meanwhile, Uteva has cleverly sprung into action. After jumping, floating, and climbing, she stands atop the city wall. She then ties off the rope and is ready to receive refugees coming across.
She is glad to see that the mob has retreated, so that only a few people are between the building and the wall, braving flames and arrows. Two of those run off when they see what Uteva is doing. A larger problem, however, are the eight mounted bowmen on the outside of the city walls, not to mention the black-robed priest with them! Arrows fly, and one hits for 2 hp damage -- Uteva is glad for the cover bonus (+4AC) the wall affords her. [OOC: only one hero point needed -- that levitation goes a long way!]
Ael and Ilsidur consider the chances that using the Deck might help save a few people.
The preacher shouts, "COME THIS WAY TO SAFETY!" -- and a few brave souls pass through.
Sly hears Vanesia call out, "Sly! where are you? I won't leave without you!"
So choices abound! Uteva's rope bridge? Trace's charge into battle? The Deck? Or a portal into unknown dangers?
Sly Foxx and Luke Thursday February 14th, 2002 1:44:29 PM
Sly cannot make up his mind. Should he go with Uteva and the rope route? Still a big fight ahead. And Vanesia won't leave with out him and Luke. Trace's way is to fight it out, not good Same results Too much bad magic. The deck of cards? That's a good way out. Then there's the preacher's way out - the Portal. Hmmm! a better way? Live to fight another day? "Hey People we have to Organize. We all should decided together and act on the decision!"
Altemia Thursday February 14th, 2002 2:27:42 PM
"Trace! Don't go out there! Look!"
Altemia points to the door that the man had created out of mud.
"I don't think we have time to try and use the cards. Not for all these people and ourselves before the building burns. Besides, some of the people have already gone through. They might need us."
Altemia doesn't wait to find out what Trace does before she quickly runs to the others upstairs and lets them know what happened downstairs.
Sir Thomas d20=17 d4=4 Thursday February 14th, 2002 9:17:14 PM
Thomas knows that their efforts are useless against the fire. He considers becoming a martyr with Trace, but upon hearing that a portal has been opened he calls to Uteva. "Uteva, come back, we have a way out." To the rest of the group he offers suggestions. "Give her cover fire when she starts to cross! Trace, Uteva needs you up here! I don't think we will become martyrs today my friend. Altemia, where does that portal lead? Are you sure it doesn't lead to a place worse than this? Hard to imagine, but possible." Thomas pulls his dagger from his belt and hurls it at the bowmen that pose a problem for Uteva's safe return. [OOC: Assuming they are in range - 50 feet. If not, Thomas helps people downstairs because all but one option leads them there.] (Rolled 17 + 5 range melee mod. - ? range penalty = maximum of 22 to hit; rolled 4 + 4 STR = 8 dmg]
Pryte-Honos moves from in front of the stalls so that those who wish to leave those confines can feel free to do as they wish.
Ilsidur Thursday February 14th, 2002 11:09:45 PM
Ilsidur runs upstairs and calls to Uteva, "Teva, that crazy man has opened a portal out of this building, and a number of the followers have already gone through it. You better get down here, because I think the 'Lights' are on their way through as well!"
He continues to herd people from upstairs down to the portal, and makes ready to go through with the rest of the party.
Trace and Radiant Friday February 15th, 2002 2:12:26 AM
Trace jumps off Shadow and sprints back upstairs while sheathing his sword and arming his bow again. "Teva! you crazy loon, let us get ready and we we send arrows down upon them you fly your backside back over here. We have been givin another option." Trace draws his bow back and takes aim on one of the mounted archers with his second shot held in his teeth ready. His eyes narrow as he aims for the archers chest. Trace speaks out of the side of his mouth to Sir Thomas, "Have our other archers fire down on thoese mounts so Teva can make it across safely."
[OOC: Just to clarify -- the mounted archers are outside the city wall. Uteva is on top of the wall. The safe house is inside the city wall. Uteva has rigged a rope from the safe house to the top of the wall. -- Cayzle]
Uteva (Levitating) Friday February 15th, 2002 12:00:15 PM
Teva scoots back along the rope and back into the burning building. She grabs a hold of Trace's shoulder and let's him tow her downstairs.
"If you all want to trust this fellow, I'm game," she says, as they wait for the last of the Goddess' people to pass through. She studies the flickering scene through the magical doorway. "Let's do this right and hold onto each other so we don't get split up. Last one through makes sure the street preacher comes with!" She latches on to Pryte's saddle with her free hand as they head into the unknown.
On the Threshold (DM Cayzle) Friday February 15th, 2002 12:13:09 PM
Joshua speaks to the group of adventurers -- to everyone who has gathered now downstairs.
"Thank you for your help. I hope we can meet again on the other side. Good Luck!"
With that, he urges his people through the portal.
Joshua tells Vanesia that she is welcome to join her friends and step through. Vanesia, next to Sly, wants to stay with him, but she is not sure. She turns to Sly for advice.
Shortly, the room is empty aside from the wild-eyed preacher and our intrepid adventurers (and maybe Vanesia). He beckons.
The building is now burning briskly. One more minute and the smoke and heat will put the group in danger.
What next?
Sir Thomas Friday February 15th, 2002 4:56:56 PM
After seeing Uteva safely back into the burning building [OOC: paradoxical I know] Thomas checks the upper floor for any stragglers. Upon finding none [OOC: An assumption - correct me if I'm wrong] he follows everyone downstairs. Thomas asks the man, "Where does this portal lead?" Upon receiving an answer he speaks to Pryte-Honos, "You are first my friend. Go!" Pryte pauses for a few moments to let the others form a chain. Thomas takes position next to the mad priest and takes the man's hand in his own. He detects evil from the man while waiting for the chain to reach him.
Thomas will accept no other position except last in line. "I trust you good sir," he says to calm everyone's nerves and hopefully speed them through the portal. He knows it does not matter where it leads becaues they cannot stay even if they wanted to fight the mob; either is certain death, this is not.
When the chain has successfully been completed by all left in the building Pryte does not hesitate to hasten through the door. And they are on their way . . .
Trace and Radiant Saturday February 16th, 2002 2:07:47 AM
Trace moves shadow over to the new door and sends him through onto the other side. He then moves over with Uteva and becomes part of the chain as they all walk through the portal. "God speed"
Sly Foxx and Luke Saturday February 16th, 2002 9:27:00 AM
After shooting at the Cleric in black and that Love Witch. Take a look around and tell himself *Time to go*. Sly and Luke will rush down stairs and call to Vanesia, "Vanesia! get your gear and my back pack and we'll go through the portal together with the ot. . . What's the mater? Do you want to come with me? Or do you want to go with them? It's all right, I won't insist if you don't want to go with me. You know that I have this quest that drives me. (Sly shows her his tattoo on the back of his hand) If you come with me, I promise to protect you, but from time to time we will be in danger. You might be safer with the preacher and Joshua's friends, But it's up to you, Sweets"
Sly and Luke joins the others in the party and turns to Vanesia, "Hurry! time is short." Sly hold out his tattooed hand to her and wonders if she'll come with him or the Preacher?
Altemia Sunday February 17th, 2002 5:46:46 PM
Altemia hopes to herself that wherever they are going it is better than where they are.
She mutters to herself, "Oh well, it can't get much worse."
She quickly looks around to make sure nobody is being left behind and then steps through the portal to worlds unknown.
The Bell Rings Monday February 18th, 2002 11:07:27 AM
Vanesia chooses to stay with Sly. The group joins handsm including the wild-eyed preacher, who seems more subdued now that the door is open. Thomas is last. Even Pryte, Luke, and Radiant are ready. They step through the doorway as the building catches fire in earnest.
_______________________________________
The Wold pales, and becomes dim and shadowy. Some force grabs you and pulls you along. You sense motion and speed. The force begins to pull you apart -- first the preacher, then Vanesia, then Ael, just as you all hear the resounding tone of a bell, a bell you recognize in your hearts.
_______________________________________
You are in a town, not very different in architecture from the town you just left. It is windy and overcast, and the sky is a swirling mass of clouds.
Ael, Vanesia, and the preacher are missing. People on the street, dressed in drab, do not look at you.
[OOC: Ael will rejoin us when Tiny Tim can post again.]
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday February 18th, 2002 6:42:33 PM
Vanesia places her hand in Sly and the both of them step through the doorway. The bright light pales and soon becomes dim, shadowy, some force seem to grab you and pull you along. Then pulls you apart as the speed increases until it pulls Vanesia hand out of Sly's. "NO! NO!" Sly tries to yell, but all he can hear is that BELL, the bell reaches deep into your heart.
When Sly opens his eyes again, he is without Vanesia and cannot see Luke or the rest of the party. He is in a town, it's wind is cold and the sky is a mass of clouds. He feel lonely and very much alone.
Sir Thomas Monday February 18th, 2002 8:58:47 PM
Being his usual pragmatic self Thomas starts to assess the situation. "Is anyone hurt? Does anyone recognize this area? Too bad the priest wasn't more informative. Where are all of the other people that came before us . . . where are the priests . . . Joshua? Does anyone see them?" Thomas surveys the situation and takes in the environment while checking himself, Pryte, and the others for injury. He consoles Sly as he checks the young elf. "I'm sorry Sly. We may be able to find her. We'll certainly try. Who's got the deck of cards? Is one of Vanesia?"
Ilsidur Tuesday February 19th, 2002 12:36:42 AM
Ilsidur pats himself down, to make sure all his parts are still attached. "Although I live to explore, I never did like gates; you never know where you are stepping into."
He joins Sir Thomas, and says, "Now what?" In answer to the young paladin's question, Ilsidur pulls out the cards and searches through them to see if Ael or Vanesia have become images.
Trace and Radiant d20+9=29 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 1:49:44 AM
"Well I didnt like that but better than being roasted alive." Trace checks his things and climbs onto Shadow while taking a look around for anything of intrest. (spot check 29) He waits to see what the others have to say while he pets and consols Radiant knowing that must have been a bit tramatic for his friend.
Altemia Tuesday February 19th, 2002 5:27:47 AM
Altemia takes a look around.
"Well, maybe this isn't worse, but it is different."
She pauses a moment before continuing, "Did you folks here the bell as we came through, or was I the only one?"
Bleak Town (DM Cayzle) Tuesday February 19th, 2002 12:25:23 PM
Sly pops in facing away from the group, and at first he thinks he is alone! But a moment later he realizes that he is with Altemia, Ilsidur, Thomas, Trace, and Uteva -- plus the two horses, dog, and bird. Ael, Vanesia, and the wild-eyed preacher are all missing.
Sir Thomas and Ilsidur look over the Magic Cards. The ones you have right now are: Void, Ael, Uteva, Sir Thomas, Sly, Altemia, Ilsidur, The Crones, Swift Messenger Service Office, Unknown Elf, Heranmor(The Frosted Mug) and 15 Blank Cards.
[OOC: Please correct me if I am wrong, but don't you have to sleep a night through with a card under your pillow for it to be "attuned" to you? That's what the info on Thomas's PC sheet says -- so no Vanesia, I think. And if anyone has any OOC info on who the heck the The Crones, the Swift Messenger Service Office, and the Unknown Elf are, I would be grateful. Also, can you "reset" a card with an image on it by sleeping with it, or is it set forever once set? (if I may be a techno-geek, WORM or not?) Also, how do you set a card to a place? Did you guys slip a blank card under The Frosted Mug one night or something? Please forgive your newbie DM his ignorance!]
Trace, looking around, notices an unusual tradition here -- every house's doors and windows are hung with herbs of some kind.
A short conversation reveals the answer to Altemia's question -- everyone heard the bell.
Meanwhile, townsfolk are going about their bleak business, dressed in their bleak clothes, staring bleakly at the ground as they walk. Not a single person has even looked your way.
Sir Thomas Tuesday February 19th, 2002 2:13:37 PM
Now it's official, nobody knows where they are anymore. Thomas approaches one of the downtrodden townsfolk. "Excuse me kind sir/lady, could you please tell me where we are? It is a long story, but we are here in your town without knowledge of where 'here' is. Are we close to Heranmar, Threshold, or hook city? Have you heard of New Elenna by chance? Are there any temples in this area? Preferrably for Alemi, Caeroldra, Raven, or Domi." Upon receiving a cordial answer to his questions he replies, "you are very kind, thank you. Would you please direct us toward the nearest inn? Thank you again." [OOC: Assuming the person is helpful Thomas offers a gold coin for their help.] Thomas reports his findings to the group.
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday February 19th, 2002 2:25:42 PM
Sly just stand there, when he hears a whimper and a cold nose nudges his hand. A smile crosses his face, he turns and look around and down. There is Luke waiting for just a good word form his master. Sir Thomas hand on his shoulder and the rest of the party. Sly heart quickens and feel much batter, "No use to look for a card on Vanessa, there is none. She came along after Hook City (which is where we used them last). Vanessa was ripped from my grasp when we were in that void. But someday I'll find her again. I'll be all right now. But I'm a little tired, can we find an Inn some where in this village?" Sly will join the party and wait to see what they will do next. "Weird place, this town. You think that every body around here is spooked?" Sly gives Luke a good ear scratching and a piece of beef jerky.
Trace and Radiant d20+1=13 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 1:59:25 AM
Trace looks at the herbs across the windows and gets a worried look on his face. "Look, the string of herbs on the homes. I hope it is not some sort of garlic descent. Where I come from there are such creatures that fear this plant but have fierce power." (rolled 13 for knowlage of the nature of the herbs)
Altemia d20+9=24 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 11:07:57 AM
Altemia begins to take a really good look at the people around them (Spot 24). Something about this place just doesn't feel right to her.
"You would think that someone here would notice when we, with our menagerie, just popped out of the air like we did. Can they even see us?"
Uteva (Levitating) Wednesday February 20th, 2002 11:28:44 AM
"Lem take it! How did we lose Ael?" Teva begins looking around for people or building that look -- official. Quietly, she mutters, "The town does seem a little -- listless. Do you suppose this is what comes of staying in one place for too long? Well, no matter." She rubs her hands together, then flexes dextrous, string-calloused fingers. "It just means more of a challenge for us to bring some fun to town."
What's it like to be alive? (DM Cayzle) d20+10=25 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 2:54:33 PM
Altemia notices that passers-by DO smeak glances out of the corners of their eyes, and walk a little faster past. So the townsfolk do notice the group in their way.
Luke is glad to have Sly's snack, and sticks close.
Sir Thomas manages to draw out one person (Diplomacy roll above), an apprentice, judging by his age and leather work-apron. "Why, this is Abandon, good sir, of course." He hasn't heard of the towns Thomas mentions. And aside from the dead temples, there is only one active church, although, as the boy says, "most folk try to stay away from it, not go to it!"
The boy claps his hand over his mouth when he says that and looks around to see who might be listening. He runs off without another word, giving Sir Thomas no chance to give him a gold piece or ask about inns.
Trace does recognize the herb -- strings of garlic.
Uteva sees no guards or officials on this street -- a residential street with houses, a few shops, a merchant, a tailor, a cooper. There are a very few horses, and they seem like dispirited beasts.
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday February 20th, 2002 3:24:03 PM
Sly ask Altemia, "Look at those people, Altemia, the people around here really don't want to know us. Little Sister I really miss your wolves, have you empress any other gentle sole?" Sly fall in next to Trace, "what that garlic? I though that was used for food. Speaking of Food is anybody hungry? Sir Thomas I wonder if we'll find an Inn around here. The gentry look very scared of something."
Sir Thomas d20=4 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 11:47:17 PM
"Abandon?" Thomas recites the word quizically on his way back to the group. He reports what he learned, or didn't learn, to the group. "Sly, I don't know if we'll find an inn around here. We can certainly look." Thomas continues to think about the name of the town as he climbs atop Pryte-Honos. "Does anyone recognize the name of this town? You guys, I think this is the town that was swallowed by the void just beyond Threshold. I think we're in the void . . . whatever that means. If so this could be trouble. I vote we stick together whatever the cost." Thomas gets quite concerned at his belief of being in the void. "Let's go looking for an inn; ity does us no good to stand here wondering. What do you guys say?" Thomas leads the group through the town after making an educated decision about which direction looks to have an inn or is the center of town (As judged by the look of the buildings and building density - rolled 4 in case you need it . . . luck maybe?).
Ilsidur d20=4 Thursday February 21st, 2002 12:02:29 AM
Ilsidur tries hard to remember something about a town named Abandon, but nothing comes to mind. [OOC: Rolled a 4.]
Ilsidur says, "We need to find out what is going on in this town." He casts 'fly' on himself, and launches himself straight up into the air, to look around for any buildings that catch his eye. He looks for bigger buildings, temples, city hall, large inns, etc. He will keep the party in sight while he does this.
Trace and Radiant d20+9=24 Thursday February 21st, 2002 2:17:49 AM
Trace moves Radiant to his sholder and pulls Uteva onto Shadow then moves in the direction Sir Thomas leads. "Hey yall, not to be over cautious about this but the strings of herbs on the houses and buildings around here is garlic. The only time I have hever seen garlic displayed like this is when there is a vampire problem. I don't care for them too terribly much. While we have a minute, can anyone cast a cure light wounds spell on the pommel of my sword. I think this would be a good time for me to store it?" Trace contiues slowly ride along with one hand holding the reins and resting on the horn of the saddel and the other resting on the hilt of his long sword as he carefully looks around town for any suspicious beings. (spot check 24)
Altemia Thursday February 21st, 2002 10:18:22 AM
Altemia shakes her head. "I haven't found anyone yet, Big Brother. I'm still looking, but none have 'jumped out at me'. I'm hoping to find one soon."
She looks over at Trace. "I don't have a Light Wounds memorized. I usually leave those to Ilsidur. I have a Minor Wounds you are welcome to, though." If Trace wants her to, she will go ahead and cast it.
"I've never dealt with vampires before. Any information you want to tell me at this point would be very appreciated."
More Revelations (DM Cayzle) Thursday February 21st, 2002 2:17:01 PM
With Ilsidur in the air and everyone else ont he ground, the group learns more about Abandon (which does sound familiar).
The town is divided into four quarters:
A business district (where the party starts off).
A residential district, which includes several gardens and small farms, strangely enough.
An estate district, divided by high walls into parcels and manor houses. Some look empty, at least from air.
A poor district, with many empty buildings. A large graveyard cuts right through it.
At the center of the city is a large square with several municiple-looking buildings at one end and several temples at the other.
Near the biggest gate there are several large buildings that look like they could be inns.
OOC: Sorry this is late and short -- gosh darn computer crashes!
Sly foxx and Luke Thursday February 21st, 2002 5:05:57 PM
As Sly walks along side of Altemia, when it hit him "Garlic in windows? Town named Abandon? Vampires? Stay close, Little Sister. I don't want to lose you too." Sly and Luke will follow the party to an Inn and plan for tomorrow.
Altemia d20=18 Thursday February 21st, 2002 5:42:44 PM
Altemia thinks for a minute before remembering Abandon (Int 18). "I remember the owner of the Inn mentioning Abandon when we were looking for the hermit. Abandon never came back." In a softer voice she continues, "I just hope we will."
Looking around as they are walking (supposedly toward the inns?) "I have a feeling that this isn't where we were supposed to end up. The others aren't with us. I wonder if someone wanted us here for a reason...good or bad."
Sir Thomas Thursday February 21st, 2002 6:49:20 PM
Once learning of the temples in the center of town and the large buildings near the biggest gate, Thomas leads the group first for one of the buildings that appear to be inns. "Does anyone disagree with setting ourselves up with shelter first? That may also be the second most reliable source of information. We can head for the temples second. Then, at the least we will know what kind of following of which we are in the midst." Upon finding an inn Thomas leaves Pryte outside and enters. He inquires about the innkeep. "Excuse me sir, are you the owner? My friends and I are looking for a place to stay. Also, we are looking for the towns of Abandon and also Threshold. Can you please tell us how far away either town is located?"
Trace and Radiant d20+9=24 d20+9=15 Friday February 22nd, 2002 1:51:32 AM
Trace moves shadow in the same direction as Sir Thomas and follows him in to the inn. All the while keeping a sharp eye out for danger or any thing out of the ordinary. (spot check on the way to the inn 24, inside the inn 15)
The Pellet Can (DM Cayzle) Friday February 22nd, 2002 12:46:32 PM
The group wanders through town to the main city gate, which has several inns nearby. As they travel, Trace realizes that there are no open doors or windows. When people enter a building, they do not knock, and they close the door carefully behind them.
Altemia remembers that Abandon is one of the towns that fell to the Vague Lands, also known as the Void. The boy said that this town is Abandon, so it stands to reason that they may be in the Void right now!
At the great square that is next to the main gate, the traffic is greater, but still not heavy. There are three inns or taverns: The Bottle, the Pellet Can, and the Sun. The Pellet Can is marked by a can filled with round shot or marbles -- a bird with a large beak is on the can's label.
There is a large man with a barkeep's apron standing outside the Pellet Can, and it is to him that Sir Thomas speaks. He tells Thomas that he is the owner, that he has rooms, but that you'll have to go inside to rent them. As for Threshhold, well, it fell into the Void years ago.
Sly Foxx and Luke Friday February 22nd, 2002 6:22:16 PM
"You know Now that you mention it, your right, Little Sister, that Inn Keeper did say something about abandon never did come back." Sly looking around looking for anything odd and will pick up a strong stick. "I think I will do a little whittling tonight, Come on Luke, Stick close to me."
Sir Thomas Friday February 22nd, 2002 6:55:56 PM
"well then please lead the way in good sir." Thomas is overly cordial with the man because it seems that in this kind of situation the group should do their best not to offend anyone. He follows the man inside and tries to squeeze a bit more from the tightlipped man. "We saw some temples in this area on our way in, would you be so kind as to tell me which influences are housed there? Also, how long have you lived here? This place looks well taken care of. Do you get a lot of travelers through these parts? We didn't have much trouble as we traveled in either. We thought that was kind of odd because where we are from things are in an uproar. Could you please tell me if that is usual? Do you normally have dangerous beasts out beyond the town borders? Do troublemaking folk make their way into town often?" Thomas politely waits for responses to all of his questions before asking the next and sometimes lets a little business flow between them so as not to come off as overly inquizitive. He doesn't see any need to put the man on guard about anything.
During the conversation THomas works a deal for two rooms [OOC: Unless anyone in the group speaks up for three, four, or one room]; Hopefully at the smallest price possible. He also inquires about stable services.
Trace and Radiant d20+9=15 Sunday February 24th, 2002 11:19:48 PM
Trace moves into the bar and calls for a bottle of wine and bread. He scans the room for anything of intrest. (spot check 15)
An Odd "Welcome" (DM Cayzle) Monday February 25th, 2002 11:26:45 AM
The owner of the Pellet Can, named Alb, looks funny at Sir Thomas, and replies sneeringly, speaking very carefully.
"'Lead the way' huh? Ye'd like an invitation, wouldn't ye? Well, no sir. I will not invite you in. I do not welcome you. I am the owner, and only I have the authority to ask you to enter -- and I will not do so."
He then goes in quickly, shutting the door firmly in Sir Thomas's face.
Trace walks in and calls for wine and bread. The owner serves it to him without objection. The common room has a few people sitting at tables eating. They look like travelers.
Sir Thomas Monday February 25th, 2002 2:28:46 PM
Very offended by the response of the owner Thomas offers to let someone else converse with the owner. He grunts, "I'll not be staying here tonight. Let's look to one of the other inns. . . . and maybe one of you should talk." In a furry he climbs atop Pryte-Honos and waits for the group to lead the way to the next establishment. "Someone should get Trace."
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday February 25th, 2002 4:01:07 PM
Sly was taken back on how rude the owner was. "Well, I'm not staying here either, But I will go in and get Trace for you. Sir Thomas" Sly will enter the Inn and will find Trace and tell him the party will look for a friendlier Inn. Luke willm follow Sly.
Ilsidur Monday February 25th, 2002 10:50:35 PM
Ilsidur calls to Sir Thomas and Sly, "Wait, you two, I think I know what is going on here. I seem to remember that vampires cannot enter a home unless they are invited in. When you asked the innkeeper to 'Lead the way', he likely misunderstood you to mean that you wanted an invitation into the inn, and he mistook your intent. Let's go in and have a meal. I have a feeling that this is definitely the place that we want to stay."
Ilsidur steps into the inn, and pulls up a chair. He addresses the owner, "We are sorry, we meant no offense. There is no way that you invited us in. Now, how about a meal, some ale, and some information? We can pay for all of it. What can you tell us about abandon? We have ended up here trying to escape a bad situation, and appear to have entered another bad situation. Anything you can tell us would be really helpful."
Altemia Monday February 25th, 2002 11:21:37 PM
Altemia follows Ilsidur and Trace into the inn. Before entering, she turns to Sly and Sir Thomas, "He may be right. Let's go on in."
Trace and Radiant Tuesday February 26th, 2002 4:18:56 AM
Trace not sure what to do ask for some cups and begins to pour the wine and cut his bread. He leans over to the barkeep. "Sir, I have noticed the garlic on the buildings around town and how the doors and windows remain shut during the day. Dose this town have a vampire problem. I inquire for me and my friends protection since we are new in this town as of today." Trace takes another drink will talking.
Ablutions (DM Cayzle) Tuesday February 26th, 2002 6:37:45 AM [OOC: Given the later posts, I'm moving Sir Thomas and Sly into the tavern with the rest of the group rather than leave them in the street or at another establishment. I hope that's okay.]
Thomas, Sly, Altemia, Ilsidur, and Uteva enter the establishment, leaving the two warhorses just outside. Luke pads alongside of Sly. They join Trace at his table.
Alb, the owner and host of the Pellet Can, sees the entire group enter, and Trace notes that he seems relieved that Sir Thomas enters uninvited -- although he eyes the bird and the dog. He seems receptive to Ilsidur's questions, but flinches visibly at Trace's words.
"Hush!" he says, "please be more discreet! These are matters best discussed in private, if at all. Ye DO seem like strangers to our ways. But first, be at ease."
He pours water from a small crystal decanter into a bowl. He holds it out to each of you, indicating that you should each dip your fingers into the water. He also offers (with a nod of his head) a white cloth draped over his arm to dry your fingers.
Do you each choose to dip your fingers?
[OOC: Spellcraft or Knowledge (Religion) checks, everybody.]
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday February 26th, 2002 11:53:16 AM
"That makes sense. After you Little Sister, come Luke." Sly following Sir Thomas and Altemia into the Inn. Sly sits next to Trace and when offered the bowl of water. Sly looks at his hand and they are a little dirty, so Sly dips his hands into the water. "Can I wash Lukes face, the dog pick up some dirt in his eyes and it bothers him?"
Trace and Radiant Wednesday February 27th, 2002 1:53:21 AM
Trace nods at the barkeeps wish to be more descrete and cracks a smile at little brothers request to wash him and the dog with the offered water. "No no little brother. This is not a wash bowl, more like a show of faith to ease the nerves a bit." Trace dips his finger into the bowl and then dries it off.
Altemia d20+1=15 Wednesday February 27th, 2002 7:06:41 AM
Altemia, in an effort to ease the barkeep's mind somehow, dips her fingers into the water. She looks curiosly at the bowl and water (spellcraft 15).
"Perhaps you'll be kind enough to answer our questions later then, kind sir. But for now, I know that I, at least, am rather thirsty. And now that I think about it, I am rather hungry, too."
Sir Thomas Wednesday February 27th, 2002 11:11:10 AM
Still feeling quite sour Thomas enters the inn . . . and leads Pryte-Honos in behind him. "Excuse me sir." he states to the barkeep. "I was wondering if there are any stables that are safe for keeping my horse." Fully understanding that this will probably not have a welcoming response Thomas quickly finishes his statement. "Don't worry, you don't have to invite us in or invite us to use any stables that might be available, we'll figure it out on our own if you choose not to help us find the required facilities." He pauses while all that sets in and then adds, as if to spite the man, "Thank you for your help sir."
Partway Dipped (DM Cayzle) Wednesday February 27th, 2002 12:35:17 PM
Alb nods as Sly, Trace, and Altemia dips into the water. He waits to see if Uteva, Ilsidur, and Sir Thomas do the same.
He smiles as Sly dabs some of the water on Luke, and says to Trace, "No, good sir, I want the animals to be sprinkled as well. There is no welcome in Abandon, especially not for strangers, but all are welcome to dip into this water."
He offers his bowl to Radiant and Pryte as well.
Answering Altemia, Alb says, "Yes, as soon as ye all dip your fingers, I would be glad to sell you food, drink, and accomodations. And then we will have a chance to talk."
Sir Thomas Wednesday February 27th, 2002 5:52:40 PM
Stunned by the owners lack of response to having a horse brought into his establishment Thomas stiffens even more than he was and to some extent more than he thought possible. However, the man's cool reaction doesn't offend Thomas more. Instead it serves to cool the Thomas' temper. He neither shows the change in his emotion, nor makes any move to further provoke the man.
Before reacting, Thomas would like to detect evil on the man. [OOC: Assuming the response he gets from the magic intuition is not evil in origin, Thomas will continue. If the man is evil we may need to reconsider our approach a bit.]
"We will dip our fingers sir." Thomas turns and quietly whispers something to Pryte-Honos. He observes the effects on those it had prior to him and, assuming nothing ill starts to happen to them, he dips his fingers. He pauses only briefly before taking a naked hand-cup's worth of water over to Pryte and sprinkling it over his friend's head and saddle-covered back.
Sly foxx and Luke Wednesday February 27th, 2002 6:26:41 PM
"Sprinkle Luke, too! All right." Sly will sprinkles Luke after he washes the dog eyes." This is making me hungry I'll have what ever Sir Thomas will have and what ever Altemia orders. OH! yes and a bowl of nice juicy stew for my Luke here."
Sly will sprinkle the dog and wipes the dog down. Luke picks up his ears at the mention of the stew, BUT whimpers when the water was sprinkle on him and the whip down.
Trace and Radiant Thursday February 28th, 2002 1:43:05 AM
Trace dampens his hand a bit and rubs the back of Radiants head. Radiant feels the coolness of the water seep in and shakes and ruffels his feathers a bit. "I know Radiant, you dont like it but that is as close to a bath you have come to since we met, it might not be a bad idea to put more on you." As if he understood every word Radiant launches into the air and perches upon the nearest rafter still shakeing the water off.
Altemia Thursday February 28th, 2002 7:00:21 AM
Altemia watches and waits for the others.
A Welcome at Last -- of sorts (DM Cayzle) Thursday February 28th, 2002 2:24:06 PM
When all the group members are sprinkled with the water, even the animals, Alb relaxes visibly. He shows you to a stable in the back where the horses can be comfortable.
Sir Thomas is relieved to sense no evil in the man. Alb evidently feels the same way.
He smiles now, for the first time, and hurries to get drinks for all. He has a servant-boy fetch food and stew. But before the food is served, he has shrugs and asks to see the group's coin first. The prices are at least five times what you would expect, and for humbler fare: boiled vegetables, roasted meat, day-old bread, sour wine.
After the meal, he invites the group into a back room for a chat.
He starts off plainly. "I don't care who ye pray to or why ye are here. It's not my business, so long as ye are quick enough, and the holy water does you no harm. But ye are plainly strangers, and strangers have grown more common., so I am happy to give you a friendly warning and let ye ask your questions."
"The warning is easy enough: stay locked indoors at night, especially when the moon is full."
"Now, ask me your questions."
Trace and Radiant Friday March 1st, 2002 2:08:04 AM
Trace looks as the others as he ask his questions. "What problems does this town have besides vampires? Is there more than one? How long has this town been in the void and did your problems start when the town was overtaken by the void? And one last question, what is causeing the void and where is it coming from?" Trace pauses inbetween each question and nods at answers givin.
Sly Foxx and Luke Friday March 1st, 2002 4:15:03 AM
"What is a Vampire? Is it human? Animal? Bird? I have never heard or seen Vampires." Sly sits there petting Luke. "When some of us went to the Cross Road Inn and ask directions to this Paladin Place. We saw, what people called void, in the distance. The fog was big, very big, people avoided it. Where did it come from? Better yet When did it start? Before or After Domi died?" Sly shakes his head,"Big Brother, where did you hear of garlic and Holy water."
Altemia Friday March 1st, 2002 12:07:02 PM
"Alb, you said something about the other towns were in the void. But, from where we come from, it is Abandon that is in the void. What other towns are around here?"
Ilsidur Friday March 1st, 2002 12:55:58 PM
Ilsidur wipes his hands off on his cloak. He looks up at the owner, and asks, "How do we leave the Void? Can we just walk out?"
"If ye dare!" (DM Cayzle) Friday March 1st, 2002 4:57:39 PM
It takes Alb a moment to realize that what Trace calls "vampire" is what he calls "nightstalker." After that confusion is resolved, he tells you that Abandon is plagued by nightstalkers.
"They were human once, young fellow," he says to Sly, "and thou would do well to avoid those who are too pale, or who avoid the garlic, or loiter about an entrance waiting to be invited in. They are dead now, but they will not go on to their rest, instead choosing to suck the life of those such as thee. Usually they come out at night, but they will walk in the day at times, when the clouds are thickest. Some say they can take the form of bats or wolves."
"So it has been in Abandon for many years," he tells all the group. "Our history tells us that some time ago the lands were happier and brighter, but that the void came and swallowed up all the towns around except Abandon and Wane. For a time Threshold was free, but then it too was taken into the Void. Since then the night is not safe -- all sorts of foul undead and spirits roam. And outside the city walls, werewolves run. I hear it is the same in Wane, and in darker towns beyond Wane that I do not know."
"As for what once was before the Void came, I must tell you that those times have faded, and some say that they never were. May be our minds have been clouded with dread, or perhaps the seasons run wrong, but time passes strangely here."
"As for this Domi who died, I know him not. Who is he, that ye might expect me to know his name?"
"As for leaving the Void, I do not know. But ye can enter it easy enough, if ye prefer never to be heard of again. Just walk into in, if ye dare!"
Sir Thomas Friday March 1st, 2002 7:48:00 PM
Thomas listens intently to all the inkeeper has to say. He then poses a few questions of his own. "Is it safe in the stables? How far away is Wane? Can you draw us a little map? How do you kill a nightstalker? I know you said they were dead already, but if we didn't have garlic and we didn't have a door, how could we fight one? Do you have garlic we could purchase? Is there any need for work in this town?"
Thomas pulls Trace aside for a moment after all of his questions are answered. He whispers to his friend, "I say we walk back into the void and be done with it. I would be willing to bet that it is simply a magical portal of some kind. I feel very lost in this place, kind of like stepping off that ship the first time we set foot on Heranmar soil." Thomas awaits Trace's response.
Trace and Radiant Saturday March 2nd, 2002 1:53:29 AM
Trace looks blankly at Sir Thomas a bit, allmost like seeing beyound him somehow. His eyes then clear a bit and he refocus his attention on him. "I agree that we need to leave the void but another unknow step is not exactly what I have in mind and I wouldnt exactly call this the same as stepping off the ship. Goodness that seems so long ago. I think a test of some sort should be performed. Tomorrwo we will purchase a mule and tie it with rope. We will then lead it to the void and send it through with the rope on the other end. If we can send the mule and pull him back then I will agree that it is safe. What do you think?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Saturday March 2nd, 2002 3:39:06 PM
"Err, I dont mean to interupt or easedrop, but?" Sly look around, then back at the two men. "What happens if we have a diffuiculty with returning or cannot get taht mule back?"
Ilsidur Saturday March 2nd, 2002 10:36:53 PM
"Here's an interesting question. Just what exactly is this 'Void'? What causes it? Where does it come from? It seems to be expanding. For how long?"
He turns to the innkeeper and says, "How can we find out more about this 'Void'? Who around here can brief us on it?"
Then he turns back to Trace and Sir Thomas, "I think we should find out everything that we can about this Void before we head out into it."
Altemia Monday March 4th, 2002 6:59:41 AM
Altemia continues to munch on the low grade fare that they received. She listens to the answers that Alb gives as the others ask questions. When Ilsidur begins to ask his questions, it sets Altemia thinking.
"I, too, wish to know more about this Void. Are we actually inside the Void right now, or does it surround the two towns like a dome or sphere? Or is it more of a wall? Is there anyone here who has made a study of the Void?"
An Avalanche of Answers (DM Cayzle) Monday March 4th, 2002 9:25:51 AM
Under an avalanche of questions, Alb looks smothered for a minute. Then, like a mountain climber patiently making his way out from under a snowbank, he answers what he can.
"The stables are safe enough, since nightstalkers crave only noble blood, and wolves don't come into town."
"It usually takes about three or four days to walk to Wane, but sometimes it takes only two days, or maybe ten, if ye stick to the road. Wander off the road and ye will be lost and lucky to ever return."
"There's no map to draw. Just take the road out of town and follow it until ye get there. A well-armed group such as yourself has as good a chance as any. Make sure ye have good silver weapons with you before ye go."
"The thing I don't understand is how ye do not know this already. Where did ye come from, then, if not from Wane? No, forget it -- I do not want to know. There's danger to knowing too much, as ye might want to learn for yourself."
When the talk turns to nightstalkers, he becomes more nervous. "Ye can't kill such as them -- they are already dead! All ye can do is drive them off, with the holy water best of all."
His voice sinks to a whisper. "They say if ye stake one in the heart and then cut off its head, ye might do the trick, but they always turn to smoke and fly away before ye can try that. Some say the garlic will drive them away, but that doesn't always work. Ye can buy garlic freely in the market. As for work, merchants always need guards for the trip out of town, but that's dangerous."
The innkeeper listens to the talk of sending a mule into the Void, but shakes his head. He comments, "Ye do not understand the way of it. There is no wall or dome -- ye can't walk up to the Void and knock on it! They call it the Vague Lands, they do, and there's a reason for it. Ye might wander off the road, and be lost, and then ye are in it, and truly lost forever. What is it? What causes it? These are mysteries I have no wish to probe! The priests at the Temple know the answers, sure, but ye do not want then to know who you are!"
He shudders at that thought. Then he ponders for a moment.
"Well," Alb says, "there is a learned man I know of, who might be willing to talk to you. I could bring you to him. But I've told you much quite freely, out of my natural sympathy for strangers -- I would require a fee of 100 gold pieces to bring you to his attention, since it would incur some risk to myself. Is it worth it to you?"
Sly Foxx and Luke Monday March 4th, 2002 6:54:07 PM
Sly sits there after a good meal and plays fetch with Luke, using somebody else's hat or gloves. Sly is trying to teach Luke to fetch something else that is not of his scent. "I then wonder as to who or why we were separated from the others when we came through the portal?" Sly throws Trace's good gloves and Luke brings them back. "I'm getting a sinking feeling that we have a bigger reputation than we knew of. . . I sure this will be made clear after a while? OH! sir Thomas do we have enough gold for the man here? So we can meet this man with the answer?"
Trace and Radiant Tuesday March 5th, 2002 2:17:30 AM
Trace moves Radiant to his shoulder and dishes out the 100 gp's and then pulls out an extra 25 that are both out of his personal stash. "Here sir. The 100 gp's is for our contact and the 25 is for the information that you have given us. More gold and protection will be given to you in the future if you watch our backs and be a friend to us. Cross us and you wont have time to spend your gold. I believe you mean to help us and be true but as of late I have had reasons to second guess everyone. I hope you can understand. If you take care of us you have won yourself a decent ally."
On the Streets of Abandon (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 5th, 2002 5:52:16 PM
Alb takes the money and seems content. He shrugs off Trace's words. "I hope my deeds will speak more loudly to you than any words. Rest well, and we will be off in the morning."
Then he leaves, and servants lock up all the windows and doors. The group is given two adjoining rooms, and they spend the night with the door between the rooms open, and with someone awake at all times. However, the night is still and quiet.
In the morning, Alb serves breakfast, and then leads the group out into Abandon. There are many more people in the streets than there were yesterday, and in addition to the dour folks walking swiftly on errands that the group saw yesterday, there are others.
These people look lost. They are dressed in a wide range of clothing -- from cloaks and coats to nightclothes and workclothes. They wander around slowly, looking into each others' faces. Some are lying in alleys, as if they had spent the night out in the open.
Alb seems surprised to see these people, and steers clear of the biggest knots of them.
As they approach the house of the learned man, the group sees someone familiar -- a middle-aged man who had taken shelter with Joshua in the Safe House in Threshold. He runs up to you, exclaiming, "Thank The Goddess! Familiar faces! Where are we? Where is Joshua? What is this grey place?"
Sir Thomas(Ceil) Tuesday March 5th, 2002 6:56:12 PM
After a restless night,the Paladin gets up and washes, saying his daily prayes, making sure that all is polish and sharpen. Then he's readsy to go down to breakfast. Sit down and turns to Trace, "I hope this visit will reap rewards." When they arrived at house of the lerned man. This stranger come up to them and ask a few questions.
OOC: i would like to cast detect evil But don't havr the file right now.
Sly Foxx and Luke Tuesday March 5th, 2002 7:11:04 PM
The night pass slowly,Some time it was very still, just a little sounds in the distance. But the next day was just like the day before, only more people and more depress. As they make their way to this man house. Sly bearle reconize this man, asking as to where is Joshua? "We did not see Joshua and you are now 9in the town of Abandon. Don't mind the dog, he's just friendly." But Sly will watch the reaction of Luke, to see if he detect evil in this person. "Trace what do you think, I really don't like this!"
Ilsidur Wednesday March 6th, 2002 12:02:43 AM
Ilsidur answers the man's questions, "This place appears to be called Abandon, and is located inside (behind?) the Void. We haven't seen Joshua since we showed up here. However, we are staying at the Pellet Can Inn, if you want to meet us there later."
Then Ilsidur turns to Alb and asks, "Who are all these people that seem so dazed and confused? Where did they come from?"
Trace and Radiant d20+9=17 Wednesday March 6th, 2002 2:04:40 AM
Trace looks around to make sure that no advances are beign made on the group and then turns to Sly and shrugs at the the notion of somting wrong. "Don't worry little brother, it should feel wrong to you. We are in a strange land in a bad situation, you shouldnt feel fine. Keep that in mind and be on guard at all times, that will keep you safe and the rest of us." Trace continues to keep a wary eye about (spot check 17)
Unwelcome (DM Cayzle) Wednesday March 6th, 2002 11:04:59 AM
As the group walks through the streets, Sir Thomas concentrates on sensing the moral undercurrents of the town. As in any town, there are fleeting traces of evil here and there: a man hurls curses at his wife; a drunk kicks a dog; a group of children tease an idiot. Although more common than in most towns, these are hardly surprising, and they do not explain Sir Thomas's growing sense of unease. There is something bad about this place, this town, that feels like an old person moaning softly behind a wall, or like hinges that need oil screeching somewhere far away.
But there is no evil intent obvious in either Alb or this follower of The Goddess.
Sly notes that Luke tends to growl under his breath more than usual, but Sly keeps him calm.
Ilsidur talks to the follower of The Goddess who greeted them, and his words are no reassurance to the fellow. "Abandon! We're in Abandon? In the Void?" He looks around wildly, clearly in a panic. "We are doomed!" He runs off before Ilsidur can invite him to the Pellet Can.
Alb sheds little light on the puzzle as he answers Ilsidur. "I don't know who these people are, but it is clear that they are newcomers, like thou. They probably came the same way that thou and thy companions did.
While they are talking, Trace notes that some common people seem to be looking at the group covertly. Are they just curious, or something else?
Alb brings the group to the house of the learned man. It is a modestly sized but beautiful building on the edge of the residential district. Alb knocks on the door, and a servant answers, You are all invited into the foyer. Two burly men with swords in scabbards stand watch. The man himself, the serving woman explains, is with students, and will emerge shortly. The learned man enters about five minutes later. Alb explains, "Ser Mattric, these strangers come with difficult questions, and they have gold to spend for the answers. I thought thou would see them."
Mattric takes in the group. His gaze rests on the crossed swords and rubies symbol carried by Sir Thomas. He says in a cool tone. "Thou are mistaken, Alb. Very mistaken." He walks to the door and opens it. He speaks loudly, loud enough to carry into the street. "Did thou not see clearly that they carry the symbol of the forgotten ones? Such as these have no welcome in my house! I ask you to leave, and to disgrace my doorstep no more! Alb, stay here, for I would have a word with thee." The burly fellows put their hands on their hilts.
Sir Thomas(Ceil) Wednesday March 6th, 2002 4:42:15 PM
As they look after the fleeing and panic fellow. Sir Thomas look at Alb and he seem to have all the answers. "New People? I wonder? they came the same way as we did?" The follow Alb again to the big house and they enter. They are introduce them to his friend named Sir Mattric. when the man rebuff Alb and more or less threw them out.
"Let's go some place where we can talk in privet, I think there is something more going on than meets the eye." Sir Thomas is deep in though.
Sly Foxx and Luke Wednesday March 6th, 2002 4:56:11 PM
Sly keeps a weary eye on the people, as Luke growl low in his bowls, "Luke keep a good eye and ears on these people" Sly follow to the house and enters. Examines the guards standing there, "They look more like statues than guards." He tell Trace,"I don't like it!"
But when they meet Sir Mattric, and get the royal heave hoo out the door. Sly ask Sir Thomas, What happen? He (Mattric) look at your symbol and out the door we went?"
Trace and Radiant Thursday March 7th, 2002 2:06:37 AM
Trace recoils a bit at the mans command. He touches his hilt just as the guards do. "Sir we truly do not mean to offend, we are here by mistake and will go quickly but we come to this town by mistake and only want answers about the void so that we can find our way back. I insist since you are said to be the smartest and our only hope to find answers." With one hand on the hilt of his sword he holds up his purse with gold in it. "We can pay for your inconvience." Not showing any signs of leaveing Trace waits for an answer. Radiant begins shifting weight from one claw to the other senseing the tenson in the room.
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