Milo Wednesday June 12th, 2002 8:08:24 PM
"Name your sacrifice, I'm prepared to pay." Milo stands resolutely before the guardian.
Lian Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:29:19 PM
Lian listens to the other Talons and their answers. He kept telling himself, 'The Talons wouldn't agree to the sacrifice, but more than half HAVE agreed to it. You think you have people figured out, then they surprise you!'
"I will agree to your terms, though, it is against my better judgement. Greater elves than I, have left in this manner." Lian bows humbly to the beast.
Bertram (sub Jay) Wednesday June 12th, 2002 11:36:53 PM
OOC: I don't feel comfortable making such a decision for Mark, however, I will.
Bertram steps forward. "I agree."
Olana Thursday June 13th, 2002 12:34:38 AM
As the others make their decision, Olana becomes aware that there is no turning back here. Outside, they were surrounded. If they tried to fight their way out they'd be dead for sure. As for the alternative - She had no idea what lay beyond, but she was getting more afraid by the minute. Battling her fears, she tries her best not to let it show on her face, overdoing it slightly. Her jaw looks a little too firm, her eyes a little too impassive.
DM Kent Thursday June 13th, 2002 10:03:05 AM
As each Talon agrees to Mir Oculus' terms he lifts himself higher so that each member must pass beneath him to go through the portal. Just before Ingrge steps through Mir Oculus nods his head and comments, "Now that is quiet a nice staff you have there elf." Ingrge glares at him but continues walking through. there is a flash of light and then you see a dim Ingrge shaped figure on the other side.
As each of you walks through the portal Mir Oculus comments on your most powerful or favorite item and each of you step through the portal there is a flash and then the process starts over again for the next Talon.
Ingrge goes, then Milo, then Figment, Olanna goes thru, and is followed by Lian, K'nara and Bertram with Falin bringing up the rear.
As each of you passes through you turn to look back and see a very dim outline of a door with swirling colors behind it.
As Bertram comes through there is a final flash and the door is no longer there. Looking around you realize that Falin is no longer with you.
(OoC> Jay Mark says he will be ready to take Bertram back over Monday evening. Thanks for your help)
Figment d20+8=17 Thursday June 13th, 2002 12:26:01 PM
The mage's blood turns cold as his headband comes under scrutiny. He is relieved when he gets to the other side, with it still intact, but then looks around in alarm as Falin is not with them. He looks back through to se if he can see him through the gate (DC 17).
Olana Thursday June 13th, 2002 4:46:39 PM
Olana crouches slightly as she passes beneath Oculus, and is relieved to get through unscathed.
"Why didn't Falin pass though?" she asks as the doorway disappears, not wanting to openly suggest that it is he that was taken for the sacrifice. Mind you, she thinks to herself, the creature said no one would be harmed. She starts to wonder what shape her magic bow is in.
Lian Thursday June 13th, 2002 7:30:36 PM
Passing through the portal, Lian leaves the gate and his feet are bare. His slippers are gone, he barely notices as he rummages inside his pack and puts back on his sandals.
"Well, that was quite disconcerting. Where is Falin?" He looks around. "Where are we?"
He looks around for a familiar sight, if there is one.
K'Nara Friday June 14th, 2002 7:00:41 AM
The human bladesinger stepped through the portal, her grip on her beloved Lucia tightening unconsciously as Mir Oculus comments on the enchanted weapon.
She'd only just gotten it fixed! It was a gift from the Gold Dragons...how could she possibly give it up??? But then, again, with the entire Wold at stake--how could she not?
K'Nara didn't protest and simply passed through the magical opening...and was immensely relieved to find that she was still gripping Lucia. Whew!
But when Falin's absence was pointed out, the leader of the Emerald Talons whirled around and looked for herself.
"Falin..?" she asked, calling. "Falin? Falin!?"
Ingrge Friday June 14th, 2002 8:49:37 AM
Relieved to find his staff still in his posession, Ingrge waits and watches as the others pass through, giving each a nod as they enter the twilight zone. His only reaction to Falin not coming through is the raising of an eyebrow, it is almost as if he knew what was going to occur. As the others check their belongings, Ingrge checks the layout of the clearing they are in.
DM kent Friday June 14th, 2002 8:59:48 AM
Figment's look back at the gate comfirms what he saw before, and that is that there is no longer a gate visible. Where the gate would have been are two ancient trees: one an oak and the other an Ironwood.
As Ingrge looks aroound the clearing, he notices that there are two paths either entering or exiting the clearing. the rest of the clearing is surrounded By the largest trees you have seen outside of the Tree of Parting. What is surprising is that no two trees are alike. Each is ancient specimen of its species.
Sitting in the middle of the meadow is a small huumock that rises about three feet.
(Lian, your slippers are only left behind if you choose them to be.)
Lian Friday June 14th, 2002 9:33:55 AM
Having kicked off his Slippers just before passing through the gate and stowed them in his bag, Lian figured; 'Why get something so valuable, dirty. I do not know what is beyond the gate, desert, marsh...'
"Well now, there is Milo, K'nara, Figment, Olana, Ingrge, Brother Bertram and myself. We are dwindling. Seven... we were nine!" The monk broods, or was it sulking... was there a difference?
"Perhaps Falin was the sacrifice for us all. Perhaps the sacrifice is not yet apparent." As the elf looks, gestering in the direction of the meadow.
Bertram (sub Jay) Friday June 14th, 2002 9:40:16 AM
Gripping his axe as they pass through, Bertram bumps the monk who was removing his slippers. "Please warn me before you stop directly in front of me Friend." The dwarf just smiles and continues through the portal.
When Falin doesn't appear with them in the clearing, Bertram simply says; "Oh dear." Those two words seem to convey what all the Talons were thinking.
Milo Friday June 14th, 2002 9:56:36 AM
As Milo steps out into the open air, he realizes the amount of tension he was carrying through that last, most dangerous encounter, and letting it go, allows tears to well up in his eyes as he collapses to his knees. For a moment, he remains on his knees, silently praying to Alemi, and then for Alemi before he rises once again. Without shame he proceeds to the center of the clearing.
Olana Friday June 14th, 2002 11:06:12 AM
Olana looks around in wonder. "I wonder where we are?" she whispers, her eyes taking in the scene, her memory searching. Was this another part of Culverwood?
Figment d20+6=12 d20+16=33 Friday June 14th, 2002 2:22:27 PM
The mage considers carefully the legends of the ancient magic places of the Wold to mine for what place exactly this might be (Int DC12, Arcana DC 33). He also makes a request. "If nobody yet has donned it, I would like to use the cloak from the lich. It would seem it isn't evil and it most certainly is magic. After we determine what it is - whenever we have some time to spare I can do that - then we can decide what to do with it.".
After looking around the clearing (and making sure to memorize which trees the gate appeared between). He rolls the riddle over in his head once again...
"Beware the silent warriors!
Two Die!
He is stripping the skin from the earth.
Find/Use the Five Arrows of Death.
Darkness is both friend and Enemy.
The Destiny of the Wold is to conquer all.
Travel along the wandering path." "So we've found and used the 5 arrows I suppose. I'm not sure regarding the next 2 lines, but I wonder if the wandering path was the one we just got off of, or the one just now before us? I also suppose there's nothing that says these lines are in order either...".
The mage looks down both paths to see if there is any difference in them.
K'Nara Monday June 17th, 2002 6:36:06 AM
"I did mention that I hate puzzles, right..?" the worried human bladesinger reiterated, looking around the Talons' new surroundings.
"We don't have much choice, Figment," K'Nara admitted, "We have to keep going. Olana, Ingrge, Lian...do any of you glean any clues whatsoever about whether one of these paths feels...ummmm...'more correct' than the other..? If so, we'll follow that path. If not...well...we may as well go forward and bear right."
Ingrge Monday June 17th, 2002 8:35:19 AM
standing in reverent silence and running his hands along one of the ancient trees, Ingrge misses what the others are saying until K'nara asks her question. Looking around at the two paths, he nods his head and confers with Olanna and Lian for a moment.
DM kent Monday June 17th, 2002 8:56:03 AM
As Milo makes his way to the hummock and Ingrge starts to answer her questions, there is a loud vibrant hum and in front of milo, encompassing the entire hummock, is a golden colored rotating cylindrical column of shimmering light. There seems to be a figure inside of the column but who/whatever it is is not very substantive.
Milo make a general knowledge role DC10 to see if you recognize the figure.
Figment is only sure that there is no place like this anywhere within a week or two travel's time. while at the same time there is a feel similar to that of the DEEP Culverwood.
Olanna, Lian, and Ingrge feel confident without knowing why that the left path leads to the actual place of leavetaking and are kind of drawn that way. They also know that the right path leads away. Where they dont know.
Figment Monday June 17th, 2002 11:34:09 AM
The mage is drawn to the hummock as it ignites in gold. "We are in Deep Culverwood - somewhere... That's all I know. What have we here?".
Milo d20+1=14 Monday June 17th, 2002 9:00:35 PM
Milo is startled as the column of golden light bursts forth. Peering into its depths, the spark of recognition comes into Milo's eyes as he views the figure.
(OOC: Made the knowledge check DC 14)
Brother Bertram Monday June 17th, 2002 9:34:46 PM
Bertram is torn between wondering about Falin and marveling at thier new location.
Lian d20+15=20 Monday June 17th, 2002 11:25:37 PM
Lian humbly bows to Olana. "If this is Culverwood, you should guide us good Lady. This is your home, is it not?"
Lian looks at the left path and nods back to Ingrge.
The monk walks up silently to Bertram, not to disturb him in him reverance of this place. "It is quite beautiful, is it not Friend?"
OOC: Lian is paying very close attention to the forest and it's sounds (listen of 20).
Olana Tuesday June 18th, 2002 12:30:57 AM
Olana bows in return to Lian. "Part of it is my home, yes, and I would gladly guide if I knew where we were. The problem with Culverwood, is that it has a mind of its own and can deceive you. If it wishes you lost - then lost you become, and I do not immediately recognise this place. "It might be better if we all focussed our senses on the path."
She too nods at Ingrge, and then explains to K'Nara what they feel. "We are not ready for the left path - not yet. It draws us to the leavetaking place. As for the right path - that leads into the unknown."
She then takes position near the right path, on guard, as the others examine the cylinder.
K'Nara Tuesday June 18th, 2002 6:11:22 AM
K'Nara--in the middle of removing the lich's cloak from her backpack and giving it to Figment--was caught off-guard by the sudden appearance of the golden figure. She hastily gave the cloak to the party's wizard and warily took up her sword again, eyeing the magical glowing being.
"Milo..? A friend of yours, perhaps..?" she asked, nodding to the alien form.
Ingrge d20=1 Tuesday June 18th, 2002 8:01:39 AM
Ingrge too is drawn to the golden light and peers in, but can't even see the figure inside.
Brother Bertram Tuesday June 18th, 2002 8:33:20 AM
Bertram turns to Lian, "It cannot compare with a mountain morning but it is quite beautiful Friend Lian."
DM Kent Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:48:08 AM
As Milo peers into the goldem maelstrom he somehow recognizes that the being inside is none other than King Claudia. He relays this information to the others and those who were in the Butterfly Meadow on that day, which seems like decades ago, feel the tears welling up as they remember the meeting between Joe and Claudia.
After a few moments the swirling stops there is the smell of summer and then it is gone. Now sitting on the hummock is a gold-colored piece of paper and eight small vials, each filled with a live black and red twelve-legged grub.
On the paper is quite a bit of writing. First there is a story that confirms what most of you had figured out. The story is about Alemi and his battle with the Cult Gods and how he had to become an undead in order to defeat them.
The second part is in a different hand and signed by King Claudia, but is dated almost fifty years ago. It says.
Dearest Talons, If you are reading this, then what was feared has come to pass and things are now at a critical point. As you have figured out the only way a mortal may defeat a god is by becoming an undead being. The second part of the way to defeat a god is that you must enter the realm of the dead. So there are two tasks ahead of you. I can help with the first, and aid in the second, but you must find your way to making these things happen. The process of becoming an undead is not a pleasant one or one without dangers and consequences. You will not emerge unscathed from this, but I hope you see that the alternative is much worse. Use the grubs sooner rather than later. As for entering the realm of the dead, You know where and when to meet, and I will help you make your way in. Perhaps my husband will join you as well. Once again our meeting will be bittersweet, but perhaps once again good will triumph.
Claudia
(OOC, K'nara don't forget to contact Grey now that you all have found out the info you needed to. Please post your message and I will email to Anthony.)
Figment Tuesday June 18th, 2002 5:49:33 PM
The mage's blood runs cold as he reads the scroll being hit full in the face with what this says. He eyes the grubs. "So we are to become what we just destroyed?!? And how exactly are we to 'undo' this transformation? And if there are those who know how to kill a god - for at least 50 years - then why is it not shared with the Gold Dragons - or do they know this already?". The mages' mid reels at the possibilities - and his horrer grows, remembering all the dead things he has 'killed' in the past. Now he is to be one too!
Lian Tuesday June 18th, 2002 6:35:15 PM
The elf shudders when he looks at one of the grub filled vials.
"I mentioned once before that I did not like the idea of becoming undead. I still do not like it. How can we be sure that we can return to the 'living'? We may even run into friends who may try to kill us if they do not recognize us. I certainly would not blame them if they tried!" The elf looks more thoughtful than ever. "In fact, how can we be sure that we will even have our own wits about us when we become undead? Will we be puppets of the remaining Gods?" He ponders a moment. "Gargul. Is he not the lord of the undead? He may control undead..."
The elf gets a look of resolve on his face, then he picks up a vial. "Well, how do we use these things Figment... anyone?" Lian begins to unstopper the vial. "I will test it. This is a test, is it not? I am willing to serve as subject. If things go out of control, and I am NOT myself after this (if I begin attacking you all, unwillingly), I would like Bertram to put me down as fast as possible." The young elf looks at his dwarven friend. "Promise."
Olana Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:17:02 PM
Venturing forward to read the note, Olana's reaction is one of complete shock. She takes a few faltering steps backward.
"What cruel trick is this??" she exclaims, shaking her head and regarding the grubs with utter loathing. "After all we've been through? Whoever is behind this, is using our memories against us - hoping our recollections of King Claudia will lull us into swallowing the bait!"
Tears fill her eyes. "This can't be the answer - it can't be."
Then, as Lian takes out the grub, she takes another two steps back and nocks an arrow into her bow. Her head is swimming with the memory of those they already killed in the Tower - elves who's lives had been utterly defiled.
Ingrge d20+13=33 Tuesday June 18th, 2002 9:44:00 PM
A look of disbelief crosses Ingrge's face as he listens to Claudia's message. Wandering closer, he sees the grubs and with an exclamation grabs one of the vials.
"Lian, Put that back in the vial NOW!" Lian, Figment, Olanna, I feel much the same way as you, however, I expect that LIFE under Marteus might actually be worse than being undead. Now let me look at our small friends here.
Once again looking at the Grubs. (Knowledge Arcana DC 33) he tells the others that these are souleaters, they are a form of larvae that when ingested alive absorb the life essence of a being and then burrow its way out of the body, usually exiting from the abdomen. The whole process is supposedly excruciatingly painful and takes about 24 hours to complete. Souleaters were often used as a means of torture and interrogation because afterward the grub was through with it's victim the victim's body was still animated as an undead being similar to a Zombie.
"So I expect that if we are to do this we must either place them in our mouths and let then do the rest or we can swallow them alive and whole."
Milo Wednesday June 19th, 2002 2:51:14 AM
Milo's revulsion is as plain as day on his face as he picks up a vial and examines the creature within. "I'm not sure whether to believe this or not. I will say though, that the thought of becoming undead is not a pleasant one. I'm not sure I like this option." Thinking for a moment... then speaking, "So, this is what is to become of the Talons? Zombies wandering through the land of the dead?"
K'Nara Wednesday June 19th, 2002 6:46:41 AM
The human female was silent after all the fantastic happenings--somberly silent after Ingrge identified the bugs in the vials. She was thinking--or trying to, but it was difficult because intense pondering over moral dilemmas was not her forte...but K'Nara finally stirred, reaching out and taking up the note with one hand--and touching the silver dragon-shaped earclip in her right ear with the other.
"Master Greymalkin," the human bladesinger spoke, obviously addressing the Gold Dragon through the magic device, "The Emerald Talons finally have some small contribution to make towards the Dragon Consortium's quest. We've entered the Tower of Saryd, battled some undead that were in it, spoke to an undead beholder and then exited the Tower to some kind of clearing that appears to be in the heart of the Culverwood. Here we've been visited by the ghost of King Claudia...and she left us a letter...and some grubs in sealed vials...
"On the paper is quite a bit of writing. First there is a story about Alemi and his battle with the Cult Gods..it tells us that, apparently, he had to become...an undead in order to defeat them.
"The second part is written in a different hand and signed by King Claudia--but it's dated almost fifty years ago. It says:
"Dearest Talons,
"If you are reading this, then what was feared has come to pass and things are now at a critical point. As you have figured out the only way a mortal may defeat a god is by becoming an undead being. The second part of the way to defeat a god is that you must enter the realm of the dead. So there are two tasks ahead of you. I can help with the first, and aid in the second, but you must find your way to making these things happen. The process of becoming an undead is not a pleasant one or one without dangers and consequences. You will not emerge unscathed from this, but I hope you see that the alternative is much worse. Use the grubs sooner rather than later.
"As for entering the realm of the dead, You know where and when to meet, and I will help you make your way in. Perhaps my husband will join you as well. Once again our meeting will be bittersweet, but perhaps once again good will triumph..."
K'Nara swallowed hard.
"It is signed, 'Claudia', Master Greymalkin...and I believe that the ghost and this letter ARE genuine." the leader of the Emerald Talons told the unseen Gold Dragon. "Mostly because the live bugs left for us have been identified by one of the Talons as...souleaters."
Silence reigned in the idyllic setting as K'Nara awaited the response from The Wold's original bladesinger.
Olana Wednesday June 19th, 2002 12:41:53 PM
The elf lowered her bow dejectedly as she heard Ingrge's explanation. How could it come to this? Wasn't it enough to fight and die bravely? At least there was some honour in that. But no - if this was all confirmed as true, then they would lose everything, even their souls.
Ooh, how tempting it was to walk down that path toward the place of leavetaking. Subconciously, she even took a couple of steps in that direction. The only thing that stopped her was knowing she couldn't leave the others behind to face this on their own. She just couldn't.
Instead she found herself with her head lowered, tears in her eyes, praying desperately for GreyMaulk to tell them it was all a lie.
DM kent Wednesday June 19th, 2002 5:07:43 PM
The Talons each face their own set or fears and misgivings as what they will need to do in order to aid the Wold in the fight against Marteus.
After some discussion and thought the Talons agree that the place that they must meet Claudia is the Butterfly Meadow and that they will need to be there in just under a week.
After a bit more discussion and exploration of the two paths, although Ingrge cautions the leves of the party to not journey down the one path. It is decided that the party should take the other path to leave the area and make their way to the Butterfly Meadow.
Brother Bertram 9321560 Wednesday June 19th, 2002 5:08:44 PM
Bertram looks at the vials bemusedly for a moment before sitting down pondering fate and what was in store for him and his companions.
Lian Thursday June 20th, 2002 2:51:06 AM
Lian puts the grub back in the vial.
The monk follows the rest of the group happily.
K'Nara Thursday June 20th, 2002 6:21:23 AM
"I, too, don't like the idea of having to swallow these...grubs." K'Nara conceded out loud as she tucked one of the vials into her belt pouch. "I can only hope that we may yet avoid having to do that. Meanwhile, we can start off for Butterfly Meadow even as we wait for Grey to get back to me--I'll be able to hear him over my earclip whether we are camped or traveling." After making sure that everything was secure and that each of the members of the Emerald Talons had a vial with a grub in it, K'Nara squared her shoulders.
"Let's move out, Talons!" she ordered, starting down the path that would eventually lead them to the Butterfly Meadow...
...if all went well.
Figment Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:46:09 AM
"King Claudia said to use the grubs sooner than later. We must decide what we are going to do before too much longer I fear.".
Olana Thursday June 20th, 2002 11:33:52 AM
Olana takes one of the grubs from K'Nara, looking at their leader as if she's gone completely crazy, but she tucks the thing away in a belt pouch, and sets off alongside the others. For just a moment, she stops by one of the giant trees, and her hand caresses the bark. Her mind runs through various options - all seem to end in death, undeath, slavery and servitutde to a monster, or some other nasty conclusion. She knows that somehow she will have to deal with it.
It was like she was dead already. Funny - she'd heard someone say that once about themselves in a tavern somewhere, and he didn't appear to be troubled by it.
Alemi's tale doesn't exactly inspire her either, to her - all this mess is their doing anyway. If she is truly honest with herself, she is angry, and attempting to hold back some kind of blind fury which has been growing within like a poisonous vine. All this destruction - so pointless, so stupid. What about all these trees, and the animals, and her tribe elsewhere in Culverwood?
The only thing stopping her from losing it altogether is the sight of her companions here. They are all she has left. Something to fight for. Someone to fight with. And if she can somehow harness that fury, and use it...
DM kent Thursday June 20th, 2002 7:29:16 PM
The talons make their way across the field to the path and as they step through the ring of anciet trees, everything changes. Where just moments before it was twilight, with a new moon and the first stars showing, it is now mid day just as it should be. The surrounding trees are no longer the ancient ones and there is much more woodland noise to be heard. In addition there is the sm,ell of burning wood and something else not quite as nice wafting through the air. The path leads eastward and in the near distance you hear the sound of flowing water. Ingrge and Olanna appear to think that you might be somewhere north of the Pease Blossom River near the Windborn Hills. As you recal the Butterfly Meadow was just NW of the Tree of Parting which is on the eastern edge of the Emerald Kingdom.
Milo Thursday June 20th, 2002 9:40:51 PM
Milo grits his teeth as he slips the vial with the grub into a pouch. Then taking a deep breath he strides up on the path next to Olana, and looking up at her, he proclaims, "If it was good enough for Alemi, it is good enough for me."
Lian d20+15=34 Thursday June 20th, 2002 10:04:53 PM
The elf just follows happily, as always.
"Ho-hum."
OOC: Listening for strange or unusual sounds, DC 34.
Brother Bertram d20=2 Thursday June 20th, 2002 10:11:19 PM
Bertram follows along warily looking for foes. He also regards the strange vial and all that it might portend.
K'Nara Friday June 21st, 2002 6:26:29 AM
"Aye, mage, I know that the advice was to use the grubs sooner rather than later," K'Nara conceded to Figment, "However, I think we should travel until we are within a day of reaching the Butterfly Meadow before doing so, since--as Ingrge's explanation of the use of these things would have me think--we will all be incapacitated for at least a day when we do so..." Then a thought seems to occur to K'Nara and a strange look passes over her face. "...unless...unless we stagger the times each of us swallows their grub..."
Suddenly K'Nara's vial was in her hand.
"I would never ask anyone to do what I wasn't willing to do myself." she said firmly--then promptly uncorked the vial and, with the practiced finesse of a lifetime pub-crawler knocking back a shot of Deep Dwarf whiskey, she swallowed the grub within.
"Okay, then..." the human bladesinger stated with a nod, "...let's keep going. I'd like to get as far away from here--and as close to the Meadow as possible--before the next person has to swallow their grub."
Olana Friday June 21st, 2002 10:49:54 AM
Olana smiles, seeing the conviction in Milo's eyes, and does her best to give the impression she has accepted their fate.
She doesn't even flinch when K'Nara pops the evil grub into her mouth. Noting that Bertram and Lian appear to have the scouting under control, she keeps an eye on K'Nara for any signs of change and will help her if she becomes too incapacitated.
Figment Friday June 21st, 2002 3:17:35 PM
The mage is horrified as the warrior woman swallows the critter. With a look of defeat, he says "I think perhaps it would have been better to let one of our primary fighters go first - but I guess it makes no different now. I would suggest you give us your weapons quickly and sit down near a tree. That way I can web you if get out of control.". The mage sets up, ready to cast.
Ingrge Friday June 21st, 2002 7:40:09 PM
Walking along, lost in his thoughts, Ingrge doesn't register what K'nara is saying and doing until it is too late. "K'Nara, don't ..." Shaking his head for a second, he then turns toward K'nara and the others. No need to stop, at least for now, we have while before she become incapacitated and then we will need to stop walking for a full day once the grub starts it's work."
DM kent Friday June 21st, 2002 7:47:49 PM
K'nara pops the little beast into her mouth and swallows. Two things happen: First as the grub passes in to her throat, she feels it extend its legs and sink its claws into the lining of her thoat and come to a stop. Almost at the same time she feels/tastes some thing really acrid and bitter coat the base of her tongue and throat as it oozes downward. Bare moments later K'nara no longer has any feeling on her tongue and in her throat and she feels the numbness spread along her esophogus. As the numbness spreads she feels the grub start inching its way down her throat one claw at a time.
Lian Friday June 21st, 2002 8:48:18 PM
"Perhaps it should have been me K'nara. The Talons have need of a coherant leader at the moment. It would be easier to carry me about, as I am..." He pauses searching for the correct wording. "...of a more slight frame. By no means am I saying your neglecting your duty, however, my body may react differently than yours." Thinking a moment, the monk asks Figment two very simple sounding questions. "Are these grubs magical in nature? Or do the have an inherant capability of turning the host to an undead state?" He waits for an answer. "Oh, I guess, perhaps, I have other questions. Is the effect of the grub infectous in nature? Meaning, is it a decease carrier?"
Brother Bertram Friday June 21st, 2002 10:51:33 PM
Bertram murmurs a prayer as K'nara grabs the grub and swallows it down. He pales seeing the grub form a lump in her throat.. Bertram's knees feel weak as he tracks the grub by its agonizingly slow journey down the brave warrior's throat. "By the Gods that is no way for a valiant companion to die!" He then grows quiet knowing that they would all see this again, as one by one, they each had to face this nightmare.
Milo Sunday June 23rd, 2002 2:11:37 AM
Milo's head swivels to face K'nara as if in slow motion, and the look of surprise is evident on the halfling's face. Surprise quickly changes to frustration, "Oh Bloody Hell, Knara! You may be the leader, but I'm the point-man. You aren't doing this without me." With that the halfling's lightning reflexes take over as he deftly removes the vial with the grub from his pouch, pops the lid with his thumb, and likewise knocks back the critter, swallowing for all he is worth.
K'Nara Monday June 24th, 2002 6:29:12 AM This is NOT gonna be fun at all... K'Nara thought to herself with a bit of a grimace. She was also heartily wishing that Milo hadn't swallowed his quite so quickly--she wanted only one of their number incapacitated at any one time...but the deed was done, and the die was cast.
"Heah, Inghgeeee..." the leader of the Talons told the elven warrior-wizard, handing him Lucia, the scimitar, the spare bastard sword, her daggers and quiver of arrows, too. Her words sounded thick and slurred--speaking with a numb tongue felt weird and sounded even weirder. "...hooooold theve fo' meeeee...thummun take Miloooooo'th thtuffff, toooooo...then wait fo' theve twoooo grubth tooooo worrrrrrrrk b'fo' mo' uv yoooooou thwallow."
Figment Monday June 24th, 2002 10:38:19 AM
The mage sighs as the impetuous cleric follows suit. He makes sure they sit down next to a large tree. "Easy folks. No more until wwe see what happens to our friends here.".
Olana Monday June 24th, 2002 12:16:33 PM
Olana clamps her hand over her mouth to stop herself from crying out as Milo chows down on his own grub.
There are all kinds of horrible scenarios going through her head right now. What if this 'was' a trick and they'd have to kill those who'd taken the grub? What if watching the transformation was so horrific and repulsive that she wouldn't have the strength to take her own.
She found her hands trembling slightly, as she prepared to watch and help K'Nara and Milo through the transformation. This wasn't nice.... no, no - not nice at all.
Ingrge Monday June 24th, 2002 9:37:24 PM
Taking K'nara's weapons as she sheds them, Ingrge passes them out to the others keeping hold of only Lucia. "K'nara, we will hold these for temporary safe keeping and they will be returned.
As Milo impusively pops down his grub Ingrge shakes his head and mutters "Waard's Teeth! Does nobody listen!" and then watches as Milo to begins going thru the process that K'nara just started.
DM kent d100=1 d20+9=27 Monday June 24th, 2002 9:56:49 PM
Milo pops the grub into his mouth and swallows. Two things happen: First as the grub passes in to his throat, he feels it extend its legs and sink its claws into the lining of his thoat and come to a stop. Almost at the same time Milo feels/tastes some thing really acrid and bitter coat the base of his tongue and throat as it oozes downward. Bare moments later Milo, no longer has any feeling on his tongue and in his throat and he feels the numbness spread along his esophogus. And then Milo realizes that he can no longer breathe very welland is starting to choke. As the numbness spreads he feels the grub start inching its way down his throat one claw at a time.
K'nara having felt the grub inch its way down to upper chest feels a momentary burning sensation as if some acid had been poured under her skin and then she again feels the numbing effects begin to effect her upper chest. Those who look close enough notic that K'nara is looking a bit grey and ashy in her lower face and throat.
As Figment gets the two to sit down, the rest gather and distribute Milo's weapons and start to get settled.
Ingrge wanders over to the tree and facing Figment, If what I recall of my readings is correct, the effets will move fairly slowly covering each section of the body in a fairly set pattern and the final stages won't set in for another 4-5 hours at that point They will not be abe to continue to travel, but until that point continuing should not be a problem, but I will defer to the party's judgement.
Figment d20+8=15 d20+19=34 Monday June 24th, 2002 10:17:02 PM
The mage shrugs. "I wonder how far down this road we must travel? An hour, a day, a week, more? I don't know what we should do at this point. Is there some limit to the amount of time we can stay this way before insanity breaks in? My only thought at this point is to minimize the party's risk. We're here, we're fresh, and all of us can probably take K'Nara and Milo if need be. I don't know if we have that guarantee after 5 hours of travel. What do you think we should do?". After consulting with Ingrge the mage struggles to divine anything from his memory that might give him more insight (Int 15, Arcana 34).
Milo Monday June 24th, 2002 11:58:17 PM
With every ounce of concentration that he can muster, Milo lays himself down on the ground and closes his eyes, praying fervently to Alemi for aid and strength.
Lian Tuesday June 25th, 2002 1:39:17 AM
Lian catches Milo's movements out of the corner of one eye. The monk just stares, dumbfounded.
"Milo. By the remaining Three Gods, what ARE you thinking. We need you... needed you sane, a coherant cleric to guide us..." Lian pauses. "Okay then! That is two, whose NEXT?" The monk is annoyed. "I will go next, however, I WILL wait for confirmation from the lead... who is the Talons backup leader once K'nara is out of commission?" He says with concern. Then he gets a horrified look on his face. "INGRGE, you will not be able to... disarm me. Though, I am never really THAT effective in combat." Looking over at Figment, "Did you ever answer my question about the grub?! Is it a natural desease, or is it magical, supernatural or special to the grub?" (OOC: Question is in previous post)
Figment Tuesday June 25th, 2002 11:26:52 AM
The mage looks over to Lian. "Sorry my friend, I'm still thinking about it. Nothing has come to me yet. Seems as if Ingrge will be our guide this time.".
Olana Tuesday June 25th, 2002 11:40:09 AM
In an attempt to distract herself from the horror about to take place, Olana says -
"Why don't we move on as far as we can? We don't need to run or anything, but I reckon the nearer we are to our destination the better."
Brother Bertram Tuesday June 25th, 2002 10:13:10 PM
Seeing Milo also swallow the harbinger of death, Bertram drops to his knees and prays to to the ill-fated Domi for guidance. Surely there was something to be done to ease thier suffering.
K'Nara Wednesday June 26th, 2002 6:55:50 AM
K'Nara simply sat down, then, gesturing for Milo to do the same. This wasn't at all pleasant, but not because of the obvious physical discomfort--because of the obvious emotional distress that the others were going through. Had she realized that the rest of the Talons weren't quite ready to do what had to be done, K'Nara would have stuck to her first instinct to make the trip to the Meadow first and then swallow the bugs, rather than accede to Figment's point about Claudia's spirit advising them to use the bugs sooner rather than later.
The human bladesinger would have cursed then, but the souleater inching down her throat had numbed up even more of it as it went...
Ingrge Wednesday June 26th, 2002 7:39:50 AM
Turning at Lian's comments and questions, Ingrge has a sad smile on his face. Lian my friend, It would indeed be hard to disarm you and not very pleasent, but it could be done. Hopefully we will see that it is a precaution that won't be necessary with any of us, when our turn comes. As for the grub and what is happening, it is not a disease per se thought it progresses like one. The grubs were long ago magically altered so that now they are like this naturally. Their power is now naturally part of what they are.
Pausing long enough to walk over to stand in front of K'nara, Ingrge looks down at their leader. "I know that you can't talk right now, but I need you to answer a question by blinking your eyes. First off, what is happening to you is going to progress slowly over the next 24 hours until you can no longer move, at some ppoing all of your bodily liquids will exit your body through your skin, your heart will cease to beat and then at the very last the grub will travel to your head where it will take up residence while it completes its job. You do have about 4-5 hours before you will not be able to walk. Do you wany us to stay here for the next 24 hours or do you want to get as far as we can? Blink once for stay, twice for move on.
DM kent Wednesday June 26th, 2002 7:51:52 AM
Ingrge chats with Figment for a while and Figment remembers reading something that mentioned the souleaters, but it was just a mention, they are related to and may have been mutated from both rot grubs, and carrion crawlers.
Olanna is confident that under normal circumstances a party could get to the Tree of Parting from here, on foot, in just under a week.
Bertram Prays to a dead God, Olanna stares at the horror scene infront of her even as she tries to look away, Lian starts to lose control, and the river still calls to you through the trees.
Figment Wednesday June 26th, 2002 1:08:21 PM
The mage shrugs. "I really don't know much about these things. They are realted to other carion eating vermin. That's all I can say. If these two are able, why don't we go ahead and walk. If there was going to be some kind of extreme reaction it would have happened by now.". He helps the others up - if they agree. If they don't he settles in to watch them closely.
Lian Wednesday June 26th, 2002 11:22:24 PM
"I am not sure your right Figment. We still have about 4 and a half hours before things get really interesting for K'nara and Milo." Lian shrugs.
Milo Thursday June 27th, 2002 1:24:52 AM
Focusing himself, Milo's eyes snap open, and the halfling stands, blinking twice and then looking over at K'nara for confirmation. His face is ashen, but apparently his feet work for the time being.
K'Nara Thursday June 27th, 2002 6:10:41 AM Ingrge has the way of it...but then I'd always known he would be the one... K'Nara thought to herself. Looking squarely up into the elf's sombre face, the woman warrior blinked her bright hazel eyes twice.
Travel now, worry about becoming a zombie later.
Olana d20+12=23 Thursday June 27th, 2002 11:59:40 AM
"It's going to take about a week if we walk - or, it might be quicker if we travel by boat, like we did the last time? Let me go and take a quick scout around."
((Wilderness Lore DC 23)) If Olana figures the river is very close by, she will go and have a quick look, and see if there is a boat, see which way the river is flowing etc etc - anything that might speed up their journey.
Brother Bertram Thursday June 27th, 2002 6:27:50 PM
Rising slowly Bertram looks to his friends sadly but with determination in his eyes. "Let us get there as quickly as we can. Let us face this and be done. For good or evil I want it over with.
DM kent d20=20 Thursday June 27th, 2002 6:53:40 PM
As the Talons get up and start moving eastward again, Olanna does her quick walkabout and returns with tidings of the river. The trail you are on parallels the river for a good long way and Olanna relates that the river is flowing eastward at this point. She also relates that the path will probably be the fastest way to travel for now as the terrain along the river and the steeps river banks would make travel there a might awkward.
After several hours of travel, Milo and K'nara, while not uncomfortable, are beginning to feel Like they are missing parts of their bodies. The woodland breeze that is careesing their bodies cant be felt from their noses to their waists and even parts of their arms are without feeling too. About every half an hour or so they feel the grub, which seems to be growing, move to a new part of the body and squirt its numbing acid, and the process begin anew.
After another hour or so they can no longer feel their arms or hands and their thighs are starting to numb up. In the middle of the fourth hour Milo and K'nara fall flat on their faces in the middle of the path, no longer able to move. It is about two hours to dusk.
Olanna goes for a quick scouting expedition and about 30 minutes ahead finds the path ends at the river. There is a small natural jetty and a rough way station shelter of to one side. The wood pile is stocked and the door is shut. It appears as if noone is around or has used the station in several weeks.
Lian Thursday June 27th, 2002 8:46:13 PM
Stopping on the trail and hovering over K'nara and Milo, the elf looks up at Figment and grins, almost arrogantly. "Told you."
The elf turns Milo over onto his back so he's looking straight into the clouds, he crosses the halflings arms on his chest. "Boy, I am SO looking forward to this!" He says in a condescending tone. "Friend Milo, are you with us?" Looking into the eyes of his friend.
"Olana, can we make a travois of sorts?" Looking at Ingrge for encouragement. "Is that alright? Or should we just make camp and all take our 'medicine', then wait for morning."
Olana d20+12=29 d20+10=24 d20+10=16 d20+12=14 Thursday June 27th, 2002 9:33:08 PM
Once again, the elf looks at the river in order to determine if it will speed up their journey or not in terms of direction of flow, and the general direction of the river. ((Wilderness Lore DC29)) Approaching the shelter, and seeing no one around, she knocks, waits for about 30 seconds, then rapidly uses her 'other' skills in an attempt to open the door and see if there's a boat.
((Search DC 24, Disable Device DC 16, Open lock DC 14 ))
Brother Bertram d20+2=22 Thursday June 27th, 2002 10:03:38 PM
Bertam sighs down at thier friends sadly. "I mean no abuse of your dignity, Friend Milo. I will bear you to our campsite, Domi willing." Saying this, Bertram shoulders Milo, staggering under the weight. Without another word he starts forward looking for a site to camp.
Milo Friday June 28th, 2002 12:44:45 AM
Saddened by this cruel turn of events, Milo's eyes would begin to tear up, if they worked. It wouldn't matter anyway, cause even if they do, he couldn't feel it.
K'Nara Friday June 28th, 2002 6:40:48 AM
K'Nara had a lot of time to think about her life and the things that had happened so far.
Alemi, I don't pray to gods too often because they're always busy with things too big for a grunt like me to see, the female fighter mentally prayed, But I would ask you to kindly look after Milo while we're undergoing this...process. Hells, I'd like you to kindly look after everyone in the party--we're all doing this for your (and The Wold's) ultimate benefit. I know we're all going to do our best to get what needs to be done...done. If that isn't good enough, however...well, it was fun while it lasted...
Ingrge d20+4=19 Friday June 28th, 2002 8:40:01 AM
Bending down and looking at K'nara, Ingrge mouths a few words. "Sorry about this." And then with a little help from Lian in getting her up uncerimoniously throws K'nara over his shoulder and starts walking following Bertram and Milo down the trail.
Figment Friday June 28th, 2002 11:21:57 AM
The mage follows the others to the campsite to wait for the process to finish. "I am glad you were right Lian. I see we agree on the time we have before us. I'm not looking forward to this either.". He keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.
DM kent Friday June 28th, 2002 1:53:52 PM
Olanna reports back about her findings, the shelter was empty and dusty the river looks like it could speed you along your way really well, if you only had a boat.
The Talons make it to the jetty area and Ingrge basically collapses, having carried K'nara for the best part of two miles. Catching his breath he looks at K'nara's eyes and says, "If we are going to make a habit of this, You need to go on a diet." Getting the two of them comfortable seems to be the priority right now.
Milo and K'nara have no feeling in anything below their noses and those of you who are watching things progress notice that their skin seems to be tightening up over their bones and muscles. Occasionally you see what you assume is the grub, though it has nearly tripled in size, moving around under the skin, slowly making its way toward their heads. Both K'nara and Milo seem to radiating a lot of heat from their bodies and are taking on a mottled burnt ash color to their skin tone.
Camp gets set up eventually and a fire is lit in the shelter's pit, a watch is set and Milo and K'nara feel the grub move its way into their heads.
Lian Friday June 28th, 2002 8:28:32 PM
After assisting Ingrge and anyone else who needs it, Lian rests and meditates. Not finishing his meditation, Lian stands up and moves to the fire. Glancing at Milo, he watches the grub move back up his throat and work its way into his brain. "Eeeeewww! No, no, I am definately not going that way. By all that is natural, not that way!" The monk turns ashen by just looking at the bodies of his friends.
Brother Bertram Friday June 28th, 2002 11:14:33 PM
Bertram looks to his Lian with sadness in his eyes. "Friend Lian if you feel this is not the road for you, I cannot hold it against you. The thought scares me horribly as well. But I would ask a boon of you if you are willing. Please stay with us and look over us until we have all undergone this, ...change. No matter what happens my friend, there is no shame in avoiding this." Bertram walks over and reaches up, squeezing his comrade's shoulder. I am proud to have stood along such a warrior as yourself!"
Milo Saturday June 29th, 2002 4:02:26 AM
Laying there realizing that this is it... death is imminent, Milo comes to understand that ultimately, there is no pain... its all in his head. Inwardly, he smiles.
Figment Saturday June 29th, 2002 9:48:38 AM
"I'd say once this business with Milo and K'Nara is over that we build a large raft. There is plently of timber for that.". The mage simply stands and watches two of his friends waste away in horror, knowing he too will likely share the same experience soon enough.
Olana d20+10=18 Sunday June 30th, 2002 9:49:15 PM
For a while Olana sits beside Milo, keeping her eye on him, watching the progression of the worm and it's effects. Her skin is crawling as much as the halflings with the worm beneath it.
As Figment suggests a raft, she readily agrees, and distracts herself trying to figure out the best wood, how long it will take etc etc. ((Knowledge nature DC 18 on best available timber))
K'Nara Monday July 1st, 2002 6:30:59 AM I'm going to miss the taste of Mama's cinnamon rolls...
Figment Monday July 1st, 2002 10:32:35 AM
The mage uses his architecture and engineering skills to determine the best wood and the proper dimensions of the raft. He leave the manuel labor to those better suited for it.
DM Kent Monday July 1st, 2002 3:16:21 PM
Olanna and Figment figure that they have the perfect wood for a raft as well as the knowledge materials and abilities to make quite a sturdy one at that. Darknes is falling and thoughts of rest are ever on their minds as they will need it for their raft building.
The evening passes extremely slowly for those who await further changes with the two guinea pigs. There are no further visible signs of progression from the grub and things seem to have come to a halt as the grubs made their way into Milo's and K'nara's heads. For Milo and K'nara thought the change is readily apparent as the grub makes its say into their heads they start reviewing scenes from their past, almost as if the grubs want to find out about them. This goes on for about 5 hours and then with silent screams they both are siezed by massive siezures and start thrashing around (picutre a Grand Mal Siezure). Green foam starts bubbling from their mouths and from all over their bodies blood starts oozing from out of their pores. This continues for almost an hour and then the blood turns to clearer liquids and then ceases all together. As soon as it is obvious that all the bodily liquids have been expelled the siezures stop and the two lay quietly on the floor of the shed. (It is now two in the morning)
The rest of the night passes without incident and in the early parts of predawn the quiet calm of the forest is shattered by loud voices, and of all things they are raised in song.
As someone sticks their head out to see whats up they will see a large raftlike boat pulling alongside the jetty. It is obviously well taken care of and of all things has the likeness of a dragon forward on its bow.
Figment Monday July 1st, 2002 5:03:54 PM
The mage observes K'Nara and Milo. He makes sure they are still 'alive' after their done bleeding out. When the sinign is heard the mage exits the building and stands away preparing to cast.
Lian Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 1:42:47 AM
Lian looks at Bertram with kind eyes. "At the monastery, we were trained that life is a chain of challenges. The first link in the chain is our birth, but that link is no more important than the next, however, there is occasionally a flawed link that weakens the entire chain. However, if that link is tempered from purest ore and with the hardest hammer, upon the coldest anvil, cast from the hottest forge, that link will be just like all the others, unbreakable. I have been tempered. I am a link in the Talons chain, I will not break." The elf looks at his dwarven friend, then smiles. "The best challenge over body and mind, is death." He pauses. "Undeath... whatever." He looks slightly amused by his next statement. "Just think, for the AVERAGE persons' death would be the final link in their chain. In my case, it just a new beginning. "
When the seizures start, Lian leaves the scene, uncomfortable with the situation. In fact, he'll set up his bed roll outside the door of the tent (shelter) to meditate, then moves back in after the sounds of oozing and bubbling subside.
In the early morning hours, hearing the sounds of joyous song coming from the jetty, Lian steps outside awaiting what is to come. Observing the dragon on the bow, Lian pokes his head back inside the shelter and says; "Ingrge, I think the Gold Dragons are here, but I am not sure. Come out here. Bertram, are you awake my friend?! Figment, come over here, stay with your friends."
Olana d20+4=17 Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 2:18:47 AM
With shaking hands, Olana attempts to help clean up her two "about to become undead" friends with the help of river water and her scarf. This was just awful.
As the boat arrives, she tries to remember if it was the one they all traveled up the river with, all that time ago. (Wisdom check DC 17)
K'Nara Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 6:21:48 AM ...boy, oh boy, this HURTS..!
Milo Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 10:04:26 AM
'...blood.. there goes my blood... oh well, didn't need that anyways... I think. I wonder how Olana would react if I jumped up and gave her a big undead smooch... heh heh heh heh.... ouch!'
The Solution [CDM Jerry] Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 12:02:15 PM
Your minds cloud for a second and then clear a someone tries to communicate with you. In a moment, the message comes.
"He who has heart to fight against the evil that threatens, must hear my words. I am Valdor, the Dragonstone. Leader of the Dragon Consortium and the Gold Dragons. Friend to any who oppose the Usurper and brother to any who have taken up this fight.
Not so long ago, I told you all it had begun...and so it did. Many have found ways to triumph against the armies threatening and many have died trying. These days and weeks have been hard and has seen many good people slain for no reason but a lust for power.
My friends, it is time for us to strike back! Not at the armies, or Marteaus's clerics now, but at the very God himself. As most of you know by now, a God can be defeated and even killed by mortals. There is no easy way, but it can be done.
The Usurper has taken the fight to our God's lands and only in the Lands of the Dead, can a God be defeated by a mortal. The Dragon Consortium has concluded, with the evidence produced from many of you hearing my words, that there is only one way to enter the lands of the dead. This is by becoming that which we have all fought against or heard many horror stories about. We must become undead creatures if we wish to enter and fight the slug Marteaus.
There are two ways known at this time to accomplish this. The first is by eating a souleater. It is a slug rare and hard to find. We have arranged for it to be available at The Catacombs and therefore at all businesses in their network. Simply go to the nearest magic or general store and check if they have a Catacombs connection. [In gameplay we go to the Catacombs Board after entering a store in character.] There ask for the Dragon Consortium Discount when buying anything else. Do this while in a private shopping room to avoid being overheard. Eat what you buy. It is very painful. Be prepared.
The other method of becoming undead is to enter the lands that Marteaus has created called Koshe-Marr. Once there, you must enter through a gate and come back out. It is a new gate and part machine. That's all we know of it's description. Going through the gate will turn you undead. Return through the gate and escape Koshe-Marr.
Only by becoming undead can you enter the Lands of the Dead and retain your ability to strive and quest.
The next step is to enter the lands of the Dead. We know of only one means to do this at this point in time. Seek out a place called the Parting Tree in the northern part of the Badlands. It is South of Culverwood on the main Trade Route heading west from Edenmoor. It should be just a day or so west of Edenmoor and before you get to the Emerald Kingdom. In ten days hence, any who would dare to make a difference must come there to an Inn called the Hidden Viper. From there we will journey a short distance to the Gate through which we will enter the lands of the dead and take out this would be God who has caused us such grief.
It will soon be over and there will be many in need of help. We are all brothers and sisters who take up this fight and must support one another no matter the outcome. If you cannot do this vile thing, I surely understand and ask you to help the others we leave behind. I take no one who isn't sure of themself in this action. Bring your hearts and your courage. Be strong for the end is near. Have Courage!"
His voice slowly disappears on the wind and as you think it's gone you hear once more, but very faintly, " Have courage..."
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 4:26:21 PM
Bertram roused himself from his slumber hearing the words in his mind. He takes heart in the words and tries to prepare himself for the 'death' that now faces him.
Figment Tuesday July 2nd, 2002 6:35:51 PM
The mage listens to the Dragonstone but does not deviate from his preparations as he watches the new arrivals. At least in his mind he knows that these grub things are the right thing to do.
Lian Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 2:41:45 AM
"We have the grubs. Let us eat the things now and call it done. I am tired of waiting."
Lian askes Ingrge, "May I eat the grub or is it to soon?"
DM kent Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 4:05:12 PM
As Figment checks for signs of life he finds that there are none. K'nara and Milo are as cold and grey as any several year old corpse. The people on the boat seem to be harmless. It appears that there are several children on board with their families.
Olanna is pretty sure that the ship is symbiote ship Jerimia that they travelled upon what seems like years and years ago. It sees that there are about 10 travelers on board an that the boat I pulling in for a quick break.
All but Milo and K'nara receive the Gold Dragon's message and have moxed feelings about what they hear.
Ingrge responds to Lian with a shake of his head. I think that we should perhaps wait a bit we still have a long way to travel.
K'nara and Milo, are seemingly dead.
Brother Bertram Wednesday July 3rd, 2002 7:41:11 PM
Bertram snorts, then chuckles hearing Lian's words. "Friend Lian I didn't mean we had to be hasty to eat the dreaded things. While I think I am reconciled to this fate I am surely in no hurry for it."
Olana Thursday July 4th, 2002 2:15:23 AM
"Wait Figment," exclaims the elf. "It's the symbiote - I'm sure of it. A friend. I'm sure the boat will take us where we want to go."
After a quick glance at the inanimate Milo who, to Olana seems to have the hint of a smile on his face, she approaches the boat and addresses the dragons head.
"Hello," she says with a bow. "I am Olana. Do you remember me? We have sailed together in times past. I'm here with my friends once more, only two of them have died unfortunately. We need safe passage up to the Tree of Parting. May we travel with you?"
She's not quite sure what else to say, not knowing whether the boat has heard Valdor's message or not. She certainly didn't want to lie to it. But there's no way she's going to mention undead at this point, just in case it freaks out the other passengers.
Lian Thursday July 4th, 2002 2:40:55 AM
"I will wait." Looking at Milo, Lian smirks at his stillness. Even in sleep, he's never so still. This is the quietest he's been, ever.
"Cover our Friends bodies. Hide them."
Lian begins thinking of friends and family, and the monastery. Wondering how they are fairing in their lonely little corner of the Wold.
A Visitation [CDM Jerry] Thursday July 4th, 2002 11:04:10 AM
Even though the sky is clear, you are startled by lightning striking the boat from some unknown source and thunder follows.
Immediately as the smell of ozone fills the air and your ears try to recover, the rest of the pasengers and sailors collapse to the ground unconscious.
A few seconds later, two figures unceremoniously appear. One is dressed in black and looks regal and powerful. The other is of devilish ancestry and looks to be an imp. The imp stands erect and calm like his master.
"Talons, I am Gargul and I need your help."
Lian Thursday July 4th, 2002 6:17:19 PM
Feeling like the Wold is crashing in around him already, NOW comes the God Gargul, for us the Talons!?
'Wonderful.' Thinks the monk. 'What else will happen? I suppose we will all just sprout wings and breathe fire soon too! A God, one of three remaining, comes and asks us??! Does he not have anything better to do than to pester mortals!!?
Smiling happily. "How may we assist you Gargul?"
Figment Thursday July 4th, 2002 9:37:03 PM
The mage looks at the man and tries to assess the possibility that he is telling the truth. If not he asks. "Why would one such as you need our help? We are mere gnats in your presence if you are truly Gargul. I beg you forgive my skepticism, I have never been approached by a god!". And if he can see it is who he says he is, them mage declairs "What may we do for one of the only dieties left to the Wold?".
Olana Friday July 5th, 2002 1:29:36 AM
Olana's jaw drops, her reaction one of utter astonishment. She is hardly able to believe her eyes.
After giving a formal bow, she says -
"We are helping, honestly we are. Two of us have died already and the rest of us are -"
She stops mid sentence, knowing she's sounding jittery and on edge. Instead her eyes fall on the strange devil creature. Now what?
K'Nara Friday July 5th, 2002 6:36:12 AM
Valdor Dragonstone's message actually was received by K'Nara, it was just that it underscored about the only thing she could feel emotionally at the moment: The Wold still needed her and the Talons, and she would have to answer that call.
Lightning striking nearby and the voice of Gargul did manage to permeate the enui that enveloped the ex-human bladesinger. She sat up, then stood on her feet and turned to face the God of Death.
"Greetings, Judge of the Hereafter," K'Nara said in a hollow voice, bowing low and as gracefully as her emaciated body allowed, "I am K'Nara Illutu...leader of the Emerald Talons...and we are at your service. Tell us what you need to have done and we will do it."
Lian d20=12 Friday July 5th, 2002 7:22:19 AM
Lian waits until all of his friends have their attention on the God of Death, then he pulls out a vial, fully convinced this God was here for them. Convinced that their waiting has upset him. He is convinced, now, that the divine truly exists. He palms the grub momentarily and sits in a meditative position, then throwing his head back, the monk swallows the grub. The elf begins meditating, concentrating (Concentration of 12) on the feeling of awe he has in the presence of a God.
Ingrge Friday July 5th, 2002 8:07:46 AM
As the lightening striles the boat Ingrge stands there stunned and let's out a muttered curse. "Gargul's arse," Now I guess we will have to make it go by itself. As he tries to recall all the magic wods that the ship used, the odd looking pair strolls up. As Gargul announces whom he is, Ingrge steps back behind the other Talons trying to disappear recalling what he had just uttered. As Gargul speaks Curiosity overcomes his trepidation and he steps back around to the front.
DM kent Friday July 5th, 2002 8:12:03 AM
As K,nara stands and speaks the other Talons are quite startled at her appearence. several moments later Milo too makes his appearence shuffling along in the dirt.
Lian tosses down his grub in a moment of fear inspired divinity and the process starts anew with another Talon.
Figment Friday July 5th, 2002 8:50:48 AM
The mage waits until after the others have swallowed their grubs - but he does it once Gargul has spoken.
Favor [CDM Jerry] Friday July 5th, 2002 9:03:10 AM
"That's an interesting curse Ingrge." Gargul grins. "I haven't heard that one before."
He turns back to the others.
"I too have my plans for this upcoming showdown and I will be there. Part of my plans involve this imp. I have placed certain things within him. I need you to guard him, protect him and bring him with you to the Endgame as Alemi is calling it.
"Keep him hidden as much as possible. Marteaus' spies are everywhere trying to discover what you're trying to do. Be paranoid. Keep him safe. Bring him with you. He may be the key that bring us all through this.
"Alemi and I cannot do this alone. We're gonna need your help: for this and other things. All will be played out in it's time and we can but hope and trust each other.
"The Noble Races have proven themselves true in this matter as well as heroic. Remain true to the end and we may yet prevail against the Punisher."
"His name is Gimp. He will obey you in all things. Right Gimp?"
"Oh yeah Master! This will be fun! Wheeee!"
His voice is that of a kid and grates upon the hearing.
Gargul puts his hands on K'nara and Milo and then Lian. His touch is ice cold and full of meaning, deep as a bottomless chasm.
"Be brave. Domi would want that of....
Us."
He turns away from you and doesn't just disappear, but somehow is quickly gone into the shadows.
Echoing thunder far away denotes his location in the distance. Shortly the others on the boat begin to awaken unharmed.
Milo Friday July 5th, 2002 12:46:31 PM
Milo stands there as Gargul disappears, and looks dispassionately after the god of the dead, "If mom could only see me now..." Milo's face quirks up, but where it used to look quirky and funny, it now appears wry and cynical. Looking around at his friends in life and death, "Can I have my stuff back now? Something tells me I'm going to need it."
Bertram (sub Jay) Saturday July 6th, 2002 4:51:21 AM
With the God of the Dead before him, Bertram prays silently to and for his fallen Domi. He startles at the thunder then relaxes after Gargul is gone.
"That will certainly go be a memory I'll never forget!" He exclaims, turning to Lian. "What did you think of tha.....? Drat!" He sees the final swallowing action in the monks throat and realizes what has occurred. The cleric walks to his friend whose throat has begun to pale. "I understand your actions lad. It's hard to swallow..... casting sight upon a divine being. Belief is strong. Faith is stronger." He smile at the elf and lays him back. "Be comfortable friend. Rest now."
Bertram drags out his vial and takes a look at Ingrge, then nods. It's clear the dwarf is about to begin the transformation himself. "Now that K'nara and Milo are awake, they'll be able to watch us." He knocks back the grub and swallows, laying down, he says one last thing before closing his eyes. "For Domi." He closes his eyes.
Lian Saturday July 6th, 2002 4:56:08 AM
"I can'th blweave I thaw a Gawd!!" His throat and tongue go numb. The monks bites his lip while he was talking but he can't feel it. It begins to bleed, momentarily.
Ingrge Saturday July 6th, 2002 10:02:27 AM
With all his friends dropping grubs down their throats like some kind of bird. Ingrge walks over to Gimp. "Hey Gimp! see that pretty little elf lass over there? (pointing at Olanna) You are to saty with her unless K'nara (pointing out the bladesinger) or I tell you otherwise, OK."
"Figment, Olanna, herd all these guys to the boat. I am going to see if I can procure some transportation." Walikng down to the jetty, Ingrge strolls up to the boat and calls out. "Jerimia, permission to come aboard?"
DM Kent Saturday July 6th, 2002 10:12:11 AM
With Lian and Bert starting the process of Mumbiism, and Milo and K'nara shambling along Figment and Olanna head them down toward the water's edge. Milo and K'nara regain their equipment and Bert's and Lian's are removed.
Ingrge gets to the boat and calls out to it. The smallish man/captain looks down at Ingrge and gives him permission to board. After several moments of animated conversation, Ingrge leaves the boat and comes back to the Talons.
"OK everyone, Jerimia was more than happy to give us transport, until I mentioned our, ummm, different companions here. So after I reminded him how we saved him and his Simbyote's lives, he agreed to give us transport if we will stay near the stern of the ship and put up a sailcloth partition to keep us from the other passengers. I figure that if we are on board we can all take our medicine, as it were and be ready by the time we get to the Tree. Any thoughts, questions, or concerns?"
Olana Monday July 8th, 2002 12:28:46 AM
Olana is doing all she can not to be creeped out by the appearance of the re-animated Milo and K'Nara. At least the disappearance of Gargul brings a sigh of relief, because she has quite enough to comprehend as it is, thank you very much. It is enough to drive an elf completely mad, and she is finding it tough to take all this in her stride.
A little dazed, she turns to the imp creature. "Hello, Gimp," she says, offering a warm smile. "Would you like to wear my cloak? It has a big hood and might help keep you hidden."
As they board the boat, and Ingrge asks if there are any concerns, she shoots him a look but says - "Someone should keep their eye on Gimp while I change into a monst - into something else."
She attempts to explain to the imp what is about to happen, and then asks Milo if he'll look after her precious bow. If Milo looks into her eyes, he will see thinly disguised terror in there somewhere near the surface. Nevertheless, she takes out her container, pops the top and swallows the grub. After that, she settles down crosslegged, closes her eyes and starts to breathe deeply and slowly.
Milo Monday July 8th, 2002 1:09:51 AM
Milo takes Olana's bow, looks directly into her eyes and is saddened by her fear. Looking into Milo's eyes, it is clear that while they seem somewhat glazed on the surface, a fire burns deep within. The fire of the love that only Alemi can give to his free-willed devotee. "Do not fear Olana, not even this undead state can hide the true beauty that lies deep within you." Milo's voice rings hollow.
K'Nara d20+8=17 Monday July 8th, 2002 7:45:47 AM
Everything felt so...remote. And negative. Hmmm...K'Nara knew that she'd hate to have to stay this way, and--momentarily--felt rage boil up at the unfairness of it all!
How DARE they take exception to her, when she willingly sacrificed herself for the good of The Wold! How DARE they insist on her segregating herself from them--as though she were diseased or something! Didn't they realize what was at stake? What the Emerald Talons were trying to accomplish for them, the ungrateful, whiny, living wretches that they were???
For a moment, K'Nara's undead eyes blazed with an unholy anger...but then the rage faded away. (OOC: made a voluntary Willpower check for her to banish her sudden rage.) No...while the living were mistaken in their perceptions, the purpose of her becoming undead hadn't changed--K'Nara and the other must journey to the lands of the dead that they may battle Marteaus and--hopefully--send the god-wannabe packing.
"It is...the least we can do, then, Ingrge." K'Nara agreed to the boat captain's terms. "I know that my and Milo's...present state is disturbing to the unenlightened, and we MUST get to the Meadow with all haste." The unliving bladesinger turned and beckoned to Gimp.
"Attend me, if you will." she said to the imp. "Olana will soon be...preoccupied."
Figment Monday July 8th, 2002 9:42:21 AM
Nodding at the wisdom behind being segregated fromthe general populace onboard ship, Figment starts setting up the barricade and arranging places for the upcoming changers.
Ok, Let's see I think Milo, K'nara Ingrge and I should watch while Olanna, Fian, and Bertram go through their change and then I guess Ingrge and I will finish off the groups transformation. That way we will be able to help protect the boat if necessary.
DM Kent d20+9=20 d20+9=27 d20+9=26 d20+9=19 d20+9=21 d20+9=22 d20+9=16 d20+9=23 Monday July 8th, 2002 10:13:41 AM
As the Talons get settled in Olanna feels the burning squirt and numbness signifying the beginning ofher ordeal.
Bert and Fian, seat themselves against the side of the boat and settle in for their continuing change.
Milo and K'nara each fight their own tumultuous emotions and eventually settle down to standing and watching.
Gimp, swimming in Olanna's cloak until moments later it shrinks to a perfect fit, looks over at K'nara when she calls him over and flits over to her. Looking into her eyes, he gets a mischevious gleem in his eyes and in a voice shrill voice calls out, "Mummy! I've missed you soooo much!" And then buries himself in her bust.
Moments later the boat leaves shore and starts moving.
Two days later ALL the Talons are Mumbies and they have settled into a set routine. There are very few smiles in the group, little conversation and even less laughter as they practice and go about their daily rituals. On the morning of the third day the boat seems to be slowing down and moments later Jerimia appears in front of you from out of nowhere.
Umm friends, It appears that someone has stretched a series of cables across the river up ahead. I think we might have some company in a few minutes.
Just as he finishes speaking the unmistakable sound of bowfire is heard followed by the sound of arrows and bolts hitting wood and the sounds of screams as several strike flesh at the front of the boat.
K'Nara Monday July 8th, 2002 7:49:41 PM
The imp floundered in the area of K'Nara's chest, and the late bladesinger eyed the silly creature with faint distaste (odd--such an insulting maneuver would once have rated an automatic skewering via Lucia...but that was when K'Nara was alive...) before she reached up, grabbed Gimp by the tail and hauled the little winged menace up to dangle a few inches from her sunken-eyed face.
"Listen, Gimp," she told him in a hollow voice, "I promised that no harm would come to you--and it won't...but if you keep pulling stunts like this, I can also promise you that no comforts will come to you, either."
Still, the event didn't raise the ire it normally would have.
Later--when Jerimia appeared to give the Talons the bad news, K'Nara's instincts as a fighter immediately kicked in:
"Get all the other passengers under some kind of cover if you can, Captain!" K'Nara barked, immediately pulling out her short bow and an arrow. "Talons--fighters scope out and target the attackers...Figment, see if you can figure out what it will take to cut or disable those cables..! Olana--keep an eye on Gimp--NOTHING must happen to him..!" So saying, the leader of the Emerald Talons moved with determined (if slower than usual) steps to where the action was, her undead eyes seeking the enemy attacking the boat.
Olana Monday July 8th, 2002 9:46:18 PM
It was horrible. Every single part of it was horrible, and on awakening she had to spend a long time quelling feelings of rage. There was something dark inside, giving her a kind of power she didn't have before. It was hard to deal with, but she got on with it and kept her mouth shut, perfectly aware that her friends would feel the same or at least something like it.
The call to action from their leader found her putting her bow together in a very deliberate manner. "Stay low, Gimp!" she called in a deep voice, " grab my leg and hang on for dear li - well just hang on as tight as you can."
She takes position toward the rear of the boat, facing outward and forward so the creature is sheltered from oncoming fire. If it becomes clear he is not sheltered, then she will switch position. But if there's a chance he's sheltered and she can get off a few arrows - she will do so.
Milo d20+30=40 d20+25=45 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 1:37:31 AM
Looking over at K'nara, "I'll take care of the cables." Milo's grin is definitely more feral than funny as the halfling pulls his elven cloak tight and crouches low in the boat, all the while moving forward at maximum speed, while drawing his mystic short sword. (OOC: Made hide and move silently checks at -5 to normal bonus for moving regular speed. Made DCs 40 and 45 respectively.)
Figment 3d4(3+4+3)+3=13 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:34:59 PM
Noting that Milo said he has the cables under control, Figment parts the curtain and stepping to the port side of the boat looks and without pause sends several fiery bolts ripping toward several figures on shore. He remains passively detached as the missiles strike their targets.
Lian d20+7=18 d6+2=8 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:38:35 PM
Lian steps to the starboard side with his bow in hand and with a very steady draw releases his arrow toward his chosen target. He reaches back for another arrow as his first target is struck. (AC 18, 8 damage)
Ingrge 6d4(4+3+4+3+3+4)+6=27 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:43:02 PM
Shuffling forward Ingrge stepps along side his fellow mage and pointing a wand sends 6 energy bolts spitting towards another figure on the shore.
Bertram Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:44:46 PM
Bertram moves forward to aid Jerimia move the other passengers to safety forgetting what he has become.
Bertram Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:45:23 PM
Bertram moves forward to aid Jerimia move the other passengers to safety forgetting what he has become.
DM Kent d20+9=21 d20+9=17 d20+9=24 d20+9=17 d20+9=27 d20+9=29 d6+3=4 d6+3=4 d6+3=4 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 8:55:13 PM
Ingrge, Figment and Lian all send some sort of missile into the attackers and all are rewarded with watching their opponents struck.
Milo gets to the fore of the boat and see that there are two lines crossing the river above the water and possibly one below the waterline.
Jerimia and Bertram move forward to help the passengers and find that four of them were killed outright in the first assault. As Bertram approaches the passengers take one look at him and start screaming. One girl jumps overboard to escape him and starts swimming toward shore.
Six more arrows fly toward the boat striking three more passengers, Bertram(4), Olanna(4), and Ingrge(4)
Milo d20+14=32 d20+14=33 d20+9=20 d6+2=8 d6+2=5 d6+2=7 Tuesday July 9th, 2002 11:39:50 PM
As the boat approaches the lines strung across the river, Milo's blade is a shimmer in the air as the halfling swings at the pair of lines running up top, and then plunges his blade into the water to slice the one below as well. (OOC: Milo hits AC 32 and 33 up top for 8 and 5 hps respectively, and AC 20 down below for 7 hps)
Lian d20+12=15 d20+7=25 d6=3 d6=2 Wednesday July 10th, 2002 12:37:10 AM
OOC: I'm Mailing from a friends computer, hopefully my service will be working this time tomorrow! Darn cable was broken or something.
Mumbie Lian stays on the starboard and fires his shortbow twice more at a single target. Not saying a thing, he only moans and shuffles about.
Hitting AC's 15 and 25, for 3 and 2 respectively.
Bertram (sub Jay) Wednesday July 10th, 2002 12:44:47 AM
Bertram stays at the front with Jeremia. He watches the girl go over the side, his initial thought is the go after her, in a moment his thoughts drifted from her, drifting back into his undead coma. He thinks to himself, 'It's quite sad these poor folk are afraid of me, it's sad.'
K'Nara d20=19 d20=15 d6=3 d6=3 Wednesday July 10th, 2002 11:48:14 AM
(OOC: I, too, am away from the computer that has my Undead CS on it, but I DO know that K'Nara gets two arrow attacks, and has at least a +4 to hit due to her Dexterity, so she's hit at least AC23 and AC19 respectively, for at least 3hp damage each.)
K'Nara's undead eyes focus on the likeliest target for her to aim her arrows at and she lets two missiles fly...
Olana d20+10=27 d20+10=24 d6+1=7 d6+1=2 Wednesday July 10th, 2002 2:21:23 PM
Olana fires off two arrows at the attackers, all the while telling the imp to grip close and keep out of firing range.
She does not move too far, staying in a place that will protect Gimp the most.
DM Kent Wednesday July 10th, 2002 6:25:39 PM
seeing that they are overmatched the remaining outlaws disappear into the woods leaving behind at least 6 of their fellows to serve as fertilizer for the forest.
Milo manages to cut through the ropes without much difficulty and the boat is soon on its way.
The next two days pass uneventfully and with everybody healed and at full strength, the jetty closest to the Tree of Parting is soon on your right side. Jerimia pulls alongside and wishing you all well, sends you on your way. The early afternoon is spent making your way to your destination and about two hours before sunset you arrive.
Even though many of you have been here before it is an unbelievable sight. There rising out of apparent nothing is the largest tree any of you has ever seen. The trunk appears to be somewhere around fifty feet in diameter and the the tree itself rises several hundred feet into the air and has a spread of over a quarter of a mile. Beneath the tree can be seen an assortment of small buildings, most of which seem to be stables, vehicle storage and warehouses. Other than the size, what make this tree so impressive is that there seem to be many small dwellings along the main branches. all of which are lit in such a way to make the entire tree to have a golden glow. At the point where the main branches leave the trunk there is a large building that appears to have grown right out of the trunk itself. Leading up to this building and to the other main areas of the tree is a spiral staircase that winds around the trunk. There are also several rope ladders and elevators that can be used to gain egress to the Tree. It is to the large central building where most of the traffic seems to be going. The sign above the door simply says Tree of Parting - Inn and Tavern.
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