On the Commons (DM Cayzle) Wednesday November 6th, 2002 10:53:39 AM
Bordering the Culverwood, the Cinnamon Valley has always had a fair sprinkle of elvish folk who've made homes here. But those who are not human still stand out as a minority, and all the shorter folk know each other, at least all the ones in Jarlwolf.
So it is not a surprise that we find the young Turks of the town's non-human community all gathered together on the Commons, with the bright sun shining down on them. They know each other by face and name: four elves -- Andrath, Brontinas, Kedarn, Thram -- and a gnome -- Elerinn. And it's not a surprise to see Cadmar, a human -- everyone knows he has elves on one side of his family. One human stands out -- named Lorth -- but maybe Kedarn brought him along, since they hold to the same faith.
All sons of Cinnamon Valley, all young and strong and curious, just at a time when adventuring has become a respectable thing to do.
Used to be folks would frown on wandering off for glory or treasure or questings, but since the noble adventurers called Dragons destroyed the Jarl, people are much less critical.
In fact, the reason that Andrath, Brontinas, Kedarn, Thram, Elerinn, Cadmar, and Lorth are standing on the Jarlwolf Commons is to watch the construction of a big public board, on which the town intends to publicly post jobs and opportunities for adventurers!
Even now, workers hoist worked logs into deep holes, soon to be the posts that hold the public board upright.
Lorth Wednesday November 6th, 2002 12:22:01 PM
Lorth looks around, pleased at the perfect weather. "Looks like I got here a bit early," he remarks to no one in particular. "The posts for the public board aren't even set yet. I suppose I'll just have to wait."
He glances over to the others gathered around and nods politely, "It sure is a fine day to be out about the commons."
Brontinas Wednesday November 6th, 2002 3:57:34 PM
Brontinas stood, straight backed staring at the construction, waiting in tepid anticipation. His eyes were aglow, the thoughts of adventure ran through his head along side pictures of dragons and shining armor.
"Brothers, this is the chance of a life time. Just think of all that we could do with our skills to help out, slaying evil beasts and rescuing damsels. I remember when old Geoff of the caravan guard used to tell me stories of his adventuring as a younger man, how exciting it was."
Bronti grips the railing with his hands, the excitement in him obviously rising as his chance to become a real adventurer increases.
OOC Suggestion (DM Cayzle) Wednesday November 6th, 2002 4:13:25 PM
Gents, as you post, I suggest that you include a description of yourself -- race, distinguishing features, obvious equipment, etc.
Elerinn Wednesday November 6th, 2002 4:16:32 PM
Elerinn has been waiting on the Commons for quite some time. Today, his new life would begin! He left home early this morning, maybe for the last time in his life.
The small (even for his race) gnome looks at the perfectly blue sky, and takes a long, deep breath. A smile appears on his young face.
Impatient, he looks at the workers again. Then suddenly he hears a voice. He looks at his face, and tries to remember what this man's name is. Hoping his memory doesn't trick him, he cheerfully greets the man and says to him, in a voice maybe a bit too excited: "Oh, hi there, Lorth. Your name is Lorth, right? Indeed, it is a great day! What brings you here?"
While he says this, he quickly looks up at the faces of the others present. He is quite interested if there are others gathered here for the same purpose as himself.
Thramorilos Naimolien (Thram Nightsinger) Wednesday November 6th, 2002 5:31:23 PM
Thram waits patiently as the posts are placed on the sign. His shoulder length pale blonde hair blows slightly in the breeze. It seems to be the only part of him moving. He seems perfectly content to stand and wait without complaint however long he needs to.
He's rather tall and heavyset for an elf, which means that he's about the size of a thin 12 year old human boy. However his muscled frame speaks of an agility lacking in all but the most gifted human youth.
His calm, green eyes seem to take in all of his surroundings as he peacefully waits. His plain brown pants and cream colored shirt are simple and unadorned, yet they are neat and clean. The clothes are loose flowing and seem comfortable. Carrying no obvious weapons and wearing no armor, he would probably be unremarkable except for the shield and war hammer emblazoned in red embroidery upon the left breast of his shirt.
Kedarn Shadowglade Wednesday November 6th, 2002 6:02:21 PM
Kedarn looks at the others waiting for the posts to be placed and says in a faint but hearable voice "This looks to be an interesting gathering today." Upon saying this Kedarn nods to everyone gathered.
Kedarn looks to be a wiry built elven male with ice blue eyes and ebony black hair wearing black knee-high soft leather boots, medium grey pants with a light grey shirt and a dark grey hooded cloak. You can just barely make out what looks to be the symbol of Gargul hanging around his neck. Kedarn has what looks to be a sword on his right hip and a longbow over his left shoulder
Cadmar Thursday November 7th, 2002 6:16:58 AM
Cadmar stands with his face to the sun, eyes closed, enjoying the fine weather. The man is very young; in some other lands he would be still called a boy, but the Valley is a rough place, forcing children to grow up quick. His short black hair is already sprinkled with silver.
The man is rather small and slender. A dark green cloak is wrapped around his shoulders. His chainmail tinkles slightly when he moves. A longbow and a sabre are slung over his back, together with a large backpack.
When Kedarn makes his remark, Cadmar opens his eyes and replies:
"Interesting, yes indeed! Looks like all the restless spirits in Jarlwolf are already here."
He nods to everyone and smiles.
"So, does anyone have a hunch about the jobs the town has for adventurers?"
Sharoll and Co. (DM Cayzle) Thursday November 7th, 2002 7:02:23 AM
A young human in a breastplate walks up, flanked by a human in a robe and a half-elf in leathers. Her armor is dented here and there, and that greatax she has slung on her back has seen use. She bows low, maybe mockingly, and addresses the group. From her words, you can tell she's not a native to Cinnamon Valley.
"Greetings, newbies," she says, looking over your gear. "Searching for adventure, I take it? Well, the people here-abouts seem to have plenty of work for the likes of us."
"I am Sharoll, and this is Norton and Alarex," she gestures to her comrades, who nod and grin at you.
"Here's a deal," she continues, rubbing a nasty scar on her nose, "you tell us if you hear about any dangerous work, and we'll let you know if we hear about any caravans that need guarding!"
She smiles widely and holds her hand out to Cadmar.
[If Cadmar shakes her hand, make a Str check.]
Kedarn Thursday November 7th, 2002 7:40:15 AM
"Perhaps Sharrol might know of some work," Kedarn says to Cadmar while he smiles and nods to Sharrol, Norton and Alarex.
"Have you heard of any jobs Sharrol?" Kedarn asks.
Lorth Thursday November 7th, 2002 9:54:03 AM
Lorth is human standing at 6' even, his brown hair, cut short, matches his eyes. He wears travelers clothes, a vest and soft high boots all gray. A symbol of Gargul adorns his small steel shield, slung across his back, along with a large backpack and longsword. Hanging from his belt on left and right sides respectively are a warhammer and a heavy war pick.
Lorth turns to greet Elerinn and barely gets out a hello, when he's interupted by Sharrol. "As long as that caravan is heading north, I would be happy to guard it.", Lorth replies bowing.
Thram Thursday November 7th, 2002 10:49:43 AM
Thram raises his left eyebrow just the slightest bit when Sharrol and company arrive. He silently sizes up her two companions in case the bullies mean trouble, but he otherwise seems content to continue waiting for someone to post jobs. A caravan sounds just right to him. He would love to travel. He daydreams a bit about far away places and exotic lands as the group stands around.
Cadmar d20=4 Thursday November 7th, 2002 2:56:49 PM
"I'm Cadmar, one of the people here-abouts. Pleased to meet you." Cadmar smiles a happy little smile.
"I'm afraid the only dangerous job I've heard about is cleaning the bear traps. If you are not careful enough you can get tenatus." His smile widens to a grin and he claps Sheroll's hand (Str check of 4).
Elerinn Thursday November 7th, 2002 3:30:59 PM
As Elerinn listens to Sheroll, he double checks his backpack. <I>Do I have all things needed on a grand adventure?</I> Just as Sheroll finishes, he picks up his backpack again, now observing the rest of his equipment.
He looks at his oversized green cloak. <I>Maybe I shouldn't have taken my father's old one...</I> He tries to visualize his father, a gnome as tall as a small man. The only thing that prevents Elerinn from dissapearing in his own clothing, is a thight belt. It holds a very old dagger, and two things that look like pouches.
The huge cap of his cloak hangs over his backpack, revealing a large mess of curly red hair, which almost clashes with his blue eyes and certainly with his cloak.
OOC Posting Hints (DM Cayzle) Thursday November 7th, 2002 4:21:08 PM
You can add html-like tags to your posts if you like, but the tags use square brackets -- "[" and "]" -- instead of the usual sort "<" and ">."
So bold text is [.b.]done like this[./.b.].
Okay, remove the periods, and it comes out like this.
Sharoll Storms Off (DM Cayzle) d20+6=11 (Sharoll's Str check) Friday November 8th, 2002 3:07:03 PM
Cadmar's hand comes back pretty mangled, and you get the idea she wasn't squeezing as hard as she could!
"You dummies!" Sharoll says, "Don't you know that caravan work is the dullest and lowest-paying work you can get! Mercs and hired blades guard caravans! Adventurers go on quests! They have missions! They seek adventure!"
"You mewlings are too wet-behind-the-ears to know a good tease when you hear one!"
She storms off, muttering about babies.
Norton follows her, but Alarex shrugs and offers a word before he goes. "Boy, you guys really pissed her off when you got her name wrong." He chuckles. "It's Sharoll, not Sharrol or Sheroll! Did you do that on purpose? No wait, I don't want to know! And you didn't introduce yourselves. Well, if you ever make names for yourselves, let us know!
He too walks off, smiling.
As the day goes by, the adventuring billboard is almost finished. Other armed and armored folk gather on the Commons, with some spell-casting-types sprinkled in too.
Brontinas Friday November 8th, 2002 3:14:13 PM
Bronti looks as Sharoll left with Norton and Alarex.
"Interesting fellow that Alarex, I wonder why he holds company with one so pompous as Sharoll. Still, I suppose some healthy competition is a good thing."
"Odd that adventurers such as ourselvs are not more kind to one another, after all, we are pursuing similar ends."
Brontinas sighs and smiles a little as he ponders his own questions.
Thram Friday November 8th, 2002 5:22:59 PM
Thram finally feels compelled to speak, "Similar ends? What would those ends be? I imagine that she values profit a bit more than me, and I would guess that I value helping others a bit more than she."
Lorth Friday November 8th, 2002 5:54:25 PM
Nods in agreement with Thram. "Oh well, I tried my best to be polite, may Gargul keep her."
Cadmar Saturday November 9th, 2002 4:46:56 AM
"Oww, that hurt." Cadmar rubs his hand. "I bet she can tie a horseshoe in a knot."
"I agree, Brontinas. A most interesting and diverse trio, indeed. And I think they are after fame and all that, Thram." Cadmar imitates Alarex: "If you ever make names for yourselves, let us know."
"Obviously, we were not polite enough." Cadmar winks at Lorth. "I think she expected us to drop our jaws and go: wow, a real adventurer!"
Kedarn Saturday November 9th, 2002 5:33:29 AM
Looking at Thram and Lorth, Kedarn says "I agree with you Thram. It was a simple mistake on her name that was made."
Elerinn Saturday November 9th, 2002 2:16:24 PM
As Sharoll and her companions leave, Elerinn is left with a bit of a strange feeling. These adventurers, how they called themselves, were nothing compared to the people in his books. They weren't arrogant, they were...heroic!
But then, he shrugs and thinks "Maybe they are indeed better suited for caravans..."
Impatiently, he looks at the billboard again.
Adventurers Wanted! (DM Cayzle) Monday November 11th, 2002 10:12:23 AM
After the billboard is erected, one worker paints these words across the top:
Adventurers Wanted!
The first message to go up on the board is a notice that in a week's time, the famed Green Dragons band of heroes will be in Jarlswolf to provide a week of training to any would-be adventurers.
As you stand around talking about that, a fair elf maid approaches the group. Cadmar needs no introduction, but she tells the rest of you that she is Cassandra, an assistant to Dulcet of the Pitchfork Council. If you make an Int roll vs. DC12, you will recognize Dulcet's name as the council's witch representative.
Cassandra says that Dulcet has a task for true sons of the Cinnamon Valley that she did not want publicly posted. Too many here are strangers to the Valley, and are not to be trusted.
Cassandra asks, "Will you come to a private meeting?"
Brontinas d20+1=6 Monday November 11th, 2002 1:23:21 PM
Brontinas taps his chin for a moment.
"Wait, I have no problem helping the Pitchfork Council, indeed I hold high hopes for the Council and wish it much success... but uh... which one is Dulcet?"
Brontinas frowns a little at his own lack of knowledge.
"Assuming he is a good and kindly man, I will gladly attend a private meeting, I have no need for adventurer training."
Elerinn d20+2=18 Monday November 11th, 2002 2:32:18 PM
Elerinn tries to remember who Cassandra is, because he believes that he has seen her before. But when she mentions Dulcet, this thought fades away. Dulcet...wasn't he council's witch representative?
Elerinn is glad that the Green Dragons are coming to Jarlswolf. Finally he can meet some real adventurers! And of course, he would like to go the private meeting, this is his change!
"Count me in too!" Elerinn calls out, his voice high and excited. He looks at something sitting on his shoulder, some small creature. It rests in the inside of his hood, so it is barely noticable, but it looks like some sort of raven.
Kedarn d20+1=8 Monday November 11th, 2002 3:35:52 PM
Kedarn thinks for several minutes then he says "I don't know anyone named Dulcet but, I will attend the meeting it is for the council."
"Greetings Brontinas and Elerinn, I am Kedarn priest of Gargul. Perhaps we will be having a grand adventure in our future together.." as Kedarn turns to each and holds out his hand in greeting.
Kedarn gathers his gear and waits for Cassandra to show us to the private meeting.
Thram d20+2=18 Monday November 11th, 2002 5:00:24 PM
"Brontinas, Dulcet represents the witches on the Council. I harbor no ill will toward his constituents, however. So I for one would be happy to at least hear what he needs."
Cadmar d20+3=8 Tuesday November 12th, 2002 5:44:48 AM
Cadmar swallows hard and says in a voice that trembles a little bit:
"I'm Cadmar. I would be very happy to come to a private meeting with you. I mean you witches. And Dulcet."
He goes red on his face.
Lorth d20=11 Tuesday November 12th, 2002 7:36:04 AM
Lorth looks around to the rest of the volunteers. "Well Met Lady Cassandra", he bows slightly, "I also would like to attend this meeting, if you will have me."
A Walk Through Jarlswolf (DM Cayzle) Tuesday November 12th, 2002 10:28:44 AM
Cassandra laughs. "Dulcet is a very wise and understanding person. But she may not be very understanding if you refer to her as "he"! Come on, I'll take you to the meeting place."
The elf maid leads the group through the streets of Jarlswolf. The lands hereabout are wild, so the town is close behind walls, and the buildings are two or three stories high and near-set. As the witch's assistant leads the group up and down winding streets, she says that Dulcet wanted a group of locals with good reputations, and that you seemed to fit the bill pretty well.
She leads you up stairs into an alley, then into a private home. She smiles at the man and woman, both humans, who are evidently the ones who live here. They are are respectful but do not give their names. They show you all to a private sitting room with couches and chairs.
It will be a couple hours before Dulcet arrives, Cassandra tells you. The human man brings in water, tea, and beer. Also some bread and cheese.
Thram Tuesday November 12th, 2002 10:58:52 AM
Looking a little embarrassed about offering up faulty information, Thram shuts his mouth again and follows Cassandra through Jarlwolf. Arriving at the house, he nods to the residents and sits down on one of the chairs in the sitting room.
He settles in to wait, once more displaying a sense of calm patience. He takes a cup of tea and a little of the bread while he waits.
Lorth Tuesday November 12th, 2002 11:41:37 AM
Pleased that he has a good reputation, Lorth follows along. He bows slightly when greeting the residents of the house and then finds a simple chair to await his host.
Kedarn Tuesday November 12th, 2002 12:13:27 PM
Kedarn follows Cassandra to the meeting place. He glances around the room quickly before he sits down in one of the chairs. Kedarn takes a small glass of water and a little cheese while waiting for his host to come.
Elerinn Tuesday November 12th, 2002 3:21:16 PM
Elerinn follows Cassandra and the rest to the place where they are to meet Dulcet. He is glad that there are some refreshments, and takes a full glass of beer.
He raises his glass and says to the others present: "Maybe a little introduction is appopriate here, my fellow fameseekers! My name is Elerinn, from Merrydale. I'm humbly skilled in magical arts, and I've decided to do something usefull with it. From this day on! Nice to meet you all, my friends!"
"Oh, I almost forgot, my little fellow here is named Qamaro." He points at a raven sitting on his shoulder, and, surprisingly, the bird greets you with a creaky but understandable voice.
Brontinas Tuesday November 12th, 2002 11:15:42 PM
Brontinas grins at the mistake he made. "So, 'she' is well respected on the council? Your word is good enough for me Cassandra."
He beams at the thought of being well respected in a town in which he does not even know the names of the council members! Regardless, he follows obediently to the house. Once upstairs he introduces himself as well.
"Well, as long as we are going through introductions. I am Brontinas Del'Avian, but please, just call me Bronti, its easier for everyone involved. I hail from places beyond but I have spent so much time here in Cinnamon Valley I might as well say I live here. I think I know a few of you from around the tavern anyway."
He winks at no one in particular.
Cadmar Wednesday November 13th, 2002 4:13:19 AM
After entering the house, Cadmar leaves his weapons, backpack and cloak at the door. All can see now that he is wearing an old, but well maintained chainshirt. He takes a chair in the corner of the room and accepts a cup of herbal tea.
After Bronti introduces himself, he says:
"I'm Cadmar, of the Gondaval clan. I have grown up in the Valley. For the last two years I have been helping others to keep the forests safe."
Meeting Dulcet Wednesday November 13th, 2002 10:03:30 AM
While you wait and converse, Cassandra plays gently on a small hand-harp. After a couple hours, there is a knock on the door, and your host shows in a small human woman. Elf-sized, she is silver-haired and motherly, but with a grace and beauty to her movements. She is followed into the room by a young male elf.
Cassandra stands and introduces you all to her. "Dulcet, this is Brontinas, Thram, Lorth, Cadmar, Kedarn, and Elerinn. Gentlemen, the hmost honorable Dulcet."
The witch asks you all to sit down (if you stood up, that is!). She thanks you all for coming and also introduces the elf with her as Andrath, someone who might be a worthy addition to your group.
Then she gets right to the point.
"I need you, gentlemen, to help me retrieve a family heirloom. If all goes well, there will be little danger. But there is the possibility that others may try to steal it. All in all, it should take no more than a day or two. This would be a favor not only to me personally, but to those I represent -- and it would aid the cause of peace in this troubled valley of ours.
"I am sorry that I cannot give you any more detail than this unless you agree. And I would ask your utmost discretion about this meeting and about this task for which I am asking your assistance.
"Will you help me?"
Thram Wednesday November 13th, 2002 10:09:34 AM
"I think everyone here knows me, but if not, I am Thramorilos Naimolien. Of course, I'm known here in the Valley as Thram Nightsinger. I grew up in the Culverwood, but I followed my master Odigon to the Valley a few years ago. I have since decided that the traditional priesthood is not for me, so I am now seeking my own path."
Lorth Wednesday November 13th, 2002 12:19:16 PM
Lorth stands when Dulcet enters the room, bowing when introduced. He remains standing until Cassandra bids him to sit.
"My lady, I would be honored to retrieve this heirloom for you, but first I must know the cicumstances of why it has gone missing. I must be sure it is being returned to the rightful party. Please do not be insulted but I cannot partake in any sort of theivery," Lorth says matter-of-factly.
He then leans back in his chair, folds one arm across his chest, and raising his other he touches his temple with his hand and concentrates intently on the room.
Thram Wednesday November 13th, 2002 5:06:44 PM
Thram looks a bit confused as Dulcet apparently walked in while he was telling the others a little about himself.
When he realizes his mistake he stands then sits back again when bidden. He seems rather confused, but he does hear a request, "Since there seems to be a need, I will help."
Andrath Silverhand Thursday November 14th, 2002 12:25:39 AM
Andrath nods at the lady's introduction, and while the party decides their responses, introduces himself. "Well met. My name is Andrath Silverhand, and apparently we are to join forces, if you agree to take on the good lady's request."
Andrath is a smallish young elven male, wearing leather armour and carrying a longsword, longbow and backpack. He appears to have a difficult time sitting still, and his eyes always seem to be moving around. He treats the witch with obvious deference, however, and manages to keep fairly still while she is speaking.
Kedarn Thursday November 14th, 2002 1:10:07 AM
Kedarn stands up when Dulcet comes in then returns to sitting when bidden. Kedarn listens attentively to Dulcet while at the same time Kedarn is looking at everyone seeing what their reactions are. When Dulcet finishes speaking Kedarn nods to Dulcet and says, "I will aid you in this matter."
Bronti Thursday November 14th, 2002 1:23:46 AM
Bronti stands as Dulcet enters and sits floridly when she bids him sit. He is saddened by the lack of glory for the quest, though his smile does not slip. He has to pay the bills somehow after all.
"Madame, I would be most honored to help you in this matter. And I must admit, I am intrigued by the fact that your lips are sealed until we agreed."
He smiles waiting for the mystery to unfold.
Elerinn Thursday November 14th, 2002 3:32:36 AM
Elerinn had listened to Dulcet, but somehow, he is confused. He has some strange feeling about the odd request, but the elven woman seems very honest. He doesn't know why, exactly, but it's something in her sweet voice.
When all others have answered Dulcet, he realizes that he is the only one who hasn't agreed yet. He speaks quickly: "Of course, my lady, I would be glad to help you. Please tell us more about the matter..."
Cadmar Thursday November 14th, 2002 4:54:48 AM
Cadmar stands up when Dulcet enters and nods to Andrath when Cassandra mentions his name.
After hearing the offer, he thinks for a moment, letting others state their mind. Finally he answers in a cautious tone of voice:
"Well, if I can help to bring peace to the Valley, I am most certainly willing to assist you in this matter."
Dulcet opens up (DM Cayzle) d20+15=30 (Dulcet's Sense Motive Check) Thursday November 14th, 2002 10:51:52 AM
The witch talks with you all a little more, and then says, "Well, I feel that you all are people of character, so I will tell you more and count on your discretion.
"My great-aunt, Lalliote, has died. She was very old, and I am sure that she is at peace in the Lands of Havens Far. But her passing is dangerous because Lalliote guarded the Claw of Axios.
"The Claw is both a family heirloom and an evil and dangerous magic item. For generations my family has kept it safe. But I fear that others want to obtain it for their own dark reasons.
"I want you to quickly travel to my great aunt's house, burn Lalliote's mortal remains so that none can desecrate her, and retrieve the Claw of Axios.
"Now, I will ask again of those who were reluctant before -- will you help me?"
Thram Thursday November 14th, 2002 11:31:33 AM
Hesitant when he wasn't before, Thram asks, "I will still agree to keep such an item from falling into the hands of others, but I have a question, if the item is evil, why safeguard it? Why not just destroy it?"
Kedarn Thursday November 14th, 2002 1:53:53 PM
Kedarn says looking to Dulcet "I will agree to help recover the Claw of Axios and perform the rites for your great aunt as you have requested."
Turning and commenting to Thram, Kedarn says "by safeguarding the Claw of Axios it may in the future do some good."
Cadmar Thursday November 14th, 2002 2:25:30 PM
Cadmar listens closely to what Dulcet has to say, his tea cup left forgotten on the table.
He does not wish to interrupt the witch, so he only nods eagerly when her gaze falls on him.
Elerinn Thursday November 14th, 2002 3:07:20 PM
Elerinn looks at Dulcet, very glad he can be of any help. He speaks to her in a much calmer and controlled voice now: "Of course, my lady, I would be glad to help you!"
Then, he listens to Kedarn speaking to Thram. He immediatly remarks to Kedarn: "Use an evil magic item for good? It's like using a hammer for eating your breakfast! And who of us is capable of judging what is good? Are you, my friend?"
Andrath Friday November 15th, 2002 12:28:43 AM
Andrath turns to Dulcet and bows his head. "Of course I will help you, my lady. I only hope that I can prove worthy of the task."
Bronti Friday November 15th, 2002 1:11:02 AM
"My bow is ready to help you as I have previously stated. But I confes, it does seem odd that we are not questing to destroy an evil artifact, instead of safeguarding it. With it destroyed, no one may use it for evil."
Lorth Friday November 15th, 2002 7:24:24 AM
Lorth turns to Dulcet, "I will do ask you ask, my lady. But I must confess I agree with both my friends, Thram and Elerinn. Could we not just destroy this claw and be done with it?", he asks anxiously.
Dulcet explains (DM Cayzle) Friday November 15th, 2002 7:35:08 AM
"The Wold was remade with both good and evil, my friends. Do you not think the Remaker had a reason to include both?" Dulcet smiles, saying, "Be not overquick to simply destroy evil, since evil can sometimes be turned to good use!"
"In fact, if the Claw is bound, it is very useful indeed. But when the binder dies, it becomes dangerous again. Your mission is to bring the Claw to the top of Wolf Hill, where it will be properly controlled."
"The danger lies in those who would use it unbound. You must not let it fall into their hands!"
"I will send with you a guide, who will lead you to the Claw. Through him, you can contact me three times."
A calico housecat walks out of a shadowed corner, where perhaps he has been all along. He opens his mouth. "Meaow."
Dulcet smiles again, saying, "He says his name is Mell. He will lead you straight and true. When you want to speak with me, just ask him."
"Now, are there any final questions before I send you off?"
Cadmar Friday November 15th, 2002 1:01:13 PM
Cadmar straightens himself in his chair, surprised.
"Final questions? I thought this conversation has only just begun. Off the top of my head, how does the Claw look like? Is it dangerous to whoever is carrying it? Is it capable of acting on its own? Who or what exactly is Axios? Is he (or it) likely to come looking for the Claw? If not him, then whom do you expect to be looking for it? When exactly did Lalliote die? How did she look like? Did she live alone, or with an apprentice or a companion? Is the communication through Mell a one way message, or will a dialogue be possible?"
"Finally" - he hesitates - "I understand there is some reason why you are not sending one of the witches with us - or instead of us. Am I correct?"
Thram Friday November 15th, 2002 2:51:57 PM
Thram has a doubtful look but doesn't disagree. He said that he would go, and he will. He goes back to sitting quietly, apparently having no questions, or at least none that Cadmar didn't already ask.
Andrath Saturday November 16th, 2002 1:13:14 AM
Andrath grins at all the questions that come pouring out of Cadmar's mouth. "What a demanding young man," he thinks to himself. "I am sure that he will learn in time that all answers in life are not immediately forthcoming, and you just have to trust the fates."
He turns to look at Lady Dulcet, to see how she reacts to the multitude of questions.
Kedarn Saturday November 16th, 2002 2:04:42 AM
Kedarn sits back in the chair to listen to the answers to Cadmar's questions.
Kedarn asks "can the Claw be carrried by anyone or does it have to be carried by someone specific? I ask you this as I would not like a ny party member to pick it up and be injured or die just for picking it up or touching it."
Bronti Saturday November 16th, 2002 3:13:50 PM
Bronti sat quietly. What questions could be answered, the quest was laid out before them, the only thing to do now was exceute. However, he patiently waited for his oppurtunity to finally show his potence as an elf.
Elerinn Sunday November 17th, 2002 2:10:56 PM
There is but one thing that's on Elerinn's mind right now. It is finally going to happen! I am going to be an adventurer!
He sits quietly, waiting for the final answers. He takes another sip of his drink and thinks about the things that he may have forgotten to take with him.
Dulcet Explains Some More (DM Cayzle) Monday November 18th, 2002 7:42:14 AM
Dulcet laughs, and replies to Cadmar. "I am glad to see that you have a good head. These are excellent questions."
"The Claw looks like a wizened hand, black and shriveled. It is not dangerous if you do not touch it -- I recommend a Mage Hand spell, or tongs, or at least pick it up with a sack and not bare skin. It cannot act on its own, nor should it be dangerous for the short time you will carry it. As for who would contest you for it, my hope is that there will be no one. But if any struggle against you, they will probably be agents of those who wish the Claw for their own dark purposes."
"My Aunt Lalliote lived alone but for a servant, who brought me word. Her passing was quiet, coming in the night without warning, but so it is at times with the very old. Treat her with respect and I will be grateful. She lived north and west of here, only a few hours fast walk, but go slower and try to be subtle."
"As for smart Mell," she says, reaching down and petting the cat, "he does not speak on his own, but just tell him when you need to speak with me, and I will answer you through his mouth -- but thrice only in one week!"
I don't know where Lalliote set the Claw, but it is surely hidden. Mell will help you find it. Follow him."
"As for your final question -- my obligations with the Pitchfork Council do not allow me to go. Moreover, I would prefer not to attract attention by sending a witch."
"The time for questions is over! Go, now, with my blessing."
"Dear Mell," she says to the cat, picking him up, "we must be secretive, so you must suffer this indignity." She puts him into a canvas sack that Cassandra holds out.
She hands the bag to Elerinn. "Head west, my friends, and until you are out of town, don't let the cat out of the bag!"
She winks and whirls away, with Cassandra behind her.
Lorth Monday November 18th, 2002 12:00:12 PM
Lorth looks around at his new found friends. "Well I can't say I agree with twisting evil to work for good. I've heard it tried before and it never comes to a good end.", states Lorth, "But I suppose the pitchfork council knows what its doing."
He looks around at his friends once again and says, "Shall we be off? The cat can't be happy in that bag."
Elerinn Monday November 18th, 2002 4:49:37 PM
Elerinn tries to calm the cat inside the bag he has just received, stroking it gently. But, as it doesn't seem to like to be inside there at all, he agrees with Lorth and says, "All right, off we go!"
He looks at the others, and nods to Dulcet. Then, he starts walking towards the room's exit.
Thram Monday November 18th, 2002 6:35:48 PM
Thram tries to supress a grin as Elerinn wrestles with the sack. "Well it's a good day for a walk. Shall we?"
The elf stands and seems ready to go. To an absolute stranger he would undoubtedly seem calm, but to those that have seen him standing waiting patiently all day, he seems positively impatient to be off.
Kedarn Monday November 18th, 2002 6:56:08 PM
Kedarn stands up and looks at the others and smiles while saying "I am Kedarn of the church of Gargul. I hope we can all work well together in this adventure before us. I will aid everyone to my best ability." Kedarn then holds out his hand in greeting to everyone in the group.
Brontinas Monday November 18th, 2002 8:20:42 PM
Brontinas checks his sword at his side.
"Let us hope no evildoers do come at us, but if they should..."
He stands and looks around at the others.
"Let us be of, for the sooner we are gone, the sooner this evil is inaccesbile to the world."
OOC: Sorry if I have typos, I possily borke my thumb, so my typings a little off.
Andrath Tuesday November 19th, 2002 12:52:58 AM
Andrath bids the lady farewell, and follows the others through the doorway, eager to get moving.
Cadmar Tuesday November 19th, 2002 3:17:48 AM
Cadmar shakes Kedarn's hand. Then he picks up his cloak, backpack and weapons, grabs a wedge of cheese, and follows the others out of the house and to the outskirts of the town.
"Maybe we should spread a little bit when we walk through the town. A large group of travelers always looks suspicious..."
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