Nonam Monday April 14th, 2003 11:06:50 AM
"Umm, does anyone know anything about steering a boat down a rapids? I read a book about it once, and let's just say it's a good thing that we don't need the boat to get back."
Holm's Last Bit of Advice - DMJK Monday April 14th, 2003 11:12:09 AM
Holm helps get the smaller boat untied, and he finds an oar for everyone. "The key to navigating rapids is to have someone sitting in the front of the boat keeping an eye out for rocks. When he sees a hazard, he has to shout directions to move left or right. Then everyone paddles on the opposite side. You should also have a strong man in the back to run the rudder. And make sure that you don't get the boat turned sideways. That's a certain way to sink it in a fast current. You'll lose control and get smashed into a rock if you do."
Anything else before you set off?
Tericus Monday April 14th, 2003 5:29:08 PM
"I can try to scry Byron, but ill need a calm pool of water to do it." Tericus says. "These turtles are the only boat ive been on. I really dont know much about sailing, im afraid."
Gareth Monday April 14th, 2003 9:01:57 PM
The warrior considers the options. "I'd say Nonam on the front and Clangden or me on the back. That way maybe Nonam can use his magic to prevent any major disasters... Any chance we can find that pool for Tericus?". Turning to Holm, the warrior nods. "Your help is greatly appreciated. What are your plans? Return to the city or hang out here? I'd say the city would be the best thing for you and the turtles.". He makes sure and pet the turtles as well.
Jus Tuesday April 15th, 2003 3:26:19 AM
Jus nods to Nonam, "uh, not really." Lookout at the boats and the oars, he adds, "In principle, I know what you're supposed to do, but an ocean port is a bit different than rapids."
Thanking Holm for his excellent help, Jus promises to invite Holm up for dinner the next time the Storm's are in town. Jus then bids Holm a good trip and turns his attention to the trip ahead.
Addinein d20=13 Tuesday April 15th, 2003 7:08:25 AM
Letting the others take care of the farewell, Addinein tries to see if he can spot a calm pool of water. (spot 13) (not home for access to character sheet)
Nonam Tuesday April 15th, 2003 10:22:58 AM
Nonam isn't too sure about sitting in the front, but it sounds better than the alternatives. He takes up his seat and wonders what spells he might have to help save a boat. He decides to cast water breathing on himself before the journey gets started. That way he can cast underwater later if the need arises.
The spell should last 32 hours.
Scry - DMJK Tuesday April 15th, 2003 10:27:05 AM
After a bit of searching, Tericus finds a suitable pool for scrying. He gets a brief image of Byron in a swamp, but the vision fades quickly.
The rapids await. Nonam first, Gareth last, and everyone else in between. Any last preparations?
Clangden Tuesday April 15th, 2003 12:32:40 PM
um, i have a question, why couldnt we of wind walked or something to that effect instead of us taking the chance of drowning?
if we must ride this blasted boat, we should put all of our valuable and heavy things in a bag of holding or portable hole and someone who has the ability to stay above the water do so incase this thing flips.
Clangden looks very nervous
Tericus Tuesday April 15th, 2003 8:11:54 PM
"Windwalk would only last about an hour, and I dont think I can cast it on everyone." Tericus says to Clangden. "Just close your eyes and it will be over before you know it."
Gareth Tuesday April 15th, 2003 10:15:05 PM
The warrior considers Clangden's words. "Could we use fly, teleport or other spells to get us through this obstacle more quickly? I would think speed would be a good thing about now seeing Byron's progress.".
Clangden Wednesday April 16th, 2003 1:05:01 AM
(ooc Tericus, look in your spellbook, windwalk states it lasts 1 hour per level and effects yourself plus 1 person / 3 lvls. hence you and 5 others.)
Addinien Wednesday April 16th, 2003 8:04:19 AM
Addinein speculates, "I'm not sure you couldn't cast levitate after we get the boat in the water. that way the boat could still be moved by the water, but it might not sink?"
Jus Wednesday April 16th, 2003 9:29:29 AM
Jus patiently sits, waiting for Nonam and Tericus to decide what, if anything, to cast. None of the spells he has, save possibly Dimension Door, would help at this time.
Toying with one of the paddles, Jus reminisces of his childhood and playing sword fighting with some oars and belay pins.
"I say we take the boat. Sure, it might capsize and a few of us might drown, but we'd have a lot of fun doing it."
Nonam Wednesday April 16th, 2003 12:01:57 PM
"If I cast fly, it would last just under 3 hours, but I can't fly all of us. The spell won't work on an inanimate object, so I can't fly the boat.
Levitation might work, but I don't know it.
For teleportation to work, you have to know where you are going. That's why we didn't just teleport here in the first place.
There's a chance that I could teleport us to that swamp we saw in the scrying that Tericus just did, but it's risky. The rapids is probably safer because if the teleport spell misses, you could wind up with head stuck in the middle of a rock.
As for windwalking, Tericus is the expert there."
DMJK Wednesday April 16th, 2003 12:04:57 PM
The group talks about spell choices.
Tim is right about the windwalk spell, except I think Tericus might not be 15th level. As temp I don't have everyone's sheet. If he isn't it would be 4 extra people. That's everyone in the group but 1. Gareth and Nonam can fly without any trouble though.
Tericus Wednesday April 16th, 2003 3:16:20 PM
"I cant airwalk everyone(14thlv) and I dont have enough of them to keep us going for an entire day." Tericus says "Plus, its not like flying. You dont move any faster, your just able to walk in the air."
Gareth Wednesday April 16th, 2003 11:25:20 PM
The warrior offers "The key is the get past the rapids. After that, the boat will work fine. Can everyone but Nonam and I windwalk and perhaps together we can guide the boat with a rope down the rapids?".
Addinein Thursday April 17th, 2003 9:12:45 AM
"So someone that can fly would be the person that didn't airwalk?"
Nonam Thursday April 17th, 2003 10:08:21 AM
"I don't think that pulling the boat along with a rope would work. How about this... I cast fly on Clangden just before we get to the rapids, he can fly a little ahead of the boat and give us directions through his ring. If push comes to shove, Tericus can airwalk everyone out, and I can stay behind with waterbreathing and get our gear together."
Clangden Thursday April 17th, 2003 10:26:20 AM
(ooc Tericus, might I suggest you read the spell : Wind Walk. it states: a magical wind wafts a wind walker along at up to 600 feet per round (60mph) or as slow as 5 feet per round (1/2 mph). you at 14th level can effect yourself and 4 other people. meaning, we would travel at 60mph for 14 hours or 840 miles. who all do we have in group? Tericus Clangden Addinein Gareth Jus Nonam Gareth can fly. if you calculate how fast he can travel, and set the speed to him for the rest of us, we all can get really far in 14 hours without us having to worry about drowning.) amazing that Clangden figured this out and not the person who has the spell available to him.
DMJK Thursday April 17th, 2003 10:43:43 AM
Nonam puts forth a new plan, and unless Tericus casts his spell, it seems like what the group will do.
The group nears the rapids. If you move onto them everyone needs to make a str check and a wisdom check. If you have a skill like profession (boating) that is suitable, you can use it instead of the wisdom check.
[dm note on windwalk: it's a lot different than the 2e version. 1st it turns the subjects into "cloudlike vapor" this prohibits casting spells and pulling objects. 2nd, it lets you move 60mph (840 miles by the time Tericus' would wear off). Nonam has other means at his disposal if Tericus decides to get the rest of the group. Still, it's his choice. I merely put this here as an information service. I assume that we're using the boat unless I hear otherwise. Email each other if you want to spend anymore time discussing this.]
Tericus Thursday April 17th, 2003 12:24:49 PM
"Well, I didnt memorize the spell anyway, so I guess we're taking the boat." Tericus say to the others "I guess the thoughs of drowning can give dwarves information the dont normally have."
Gareth d20+8=28 d20=16 Thursday April 17th, 2003 8:30:43 PM
The warrior offers "Since Clangden is flying, I'll steer the boat." (Str 28 - nat 20, Wis 16).
Jus d20=2 d20+15=27 d20+12=28 Thursday April 17th, 2003 8:44:27 PM
Jus keeps his eyes ahead, but a chuckle does escape him. "Where Dragons," Jus says, "what else would you expect?"
As the rapids approach, Jus turns on his glove to enhance his strength [made strength check, by 16].
Using his Knowledge of Nature and Wilderness Lore, Jus watches the waves and exertly does his part [rolled Wilderness Lore check of 27, Knowledge(nature) check of 28].
Clangden Friday April 18th, 2003 2:03:32 AM
holds on the edges of the craft with all his might. (Gareth, i cant fly, i have no wings)
Addinein d20+2=19 d20=13 d20+6=13 Friday April 18th, 2003 6:42:12 AM
As Addinein settles into the boat he sees that Clangden is sitting in the boat. "Did you not want to fly with Nonam's help?"
(Str ck=19, wis ck= 13, balance=13)
Clangden Friday April 18th, 2003 1:02:51 PM
im sorry Add, i didnt know it was offered. i was too busy worrying about drowning to notice.
gladly accepts Nonams' offer to fly.
Nonam Friday April 18th, 2003 2:39:43 PM
Nonam casts fly on Clangden and waterbreathing on himself.
Then he sits down at the front of the boat and picks up an oar. He looks pretty clumsy. "Well, let's get going."
The Rapids and Beyond (DMJK) Friday April 18th, 2003 3:06:05 PM
The group moves forward down the river, over the small little waterfall and down the rapids.
Whooosh! The little boat shoots down the water with Clangden flying ahead and calling back directions. Spray shoots the air and everyone gets soaked... and cold. Adrenaline is in the air. Jus can barely stand it he has so much fun.
Perhaps it's because of Clangden's advance warning, but Nonam proves to know exactly what directions to shout back, and Jus keeps the group informed about what the changes in the river might mean. Gareth seems to even have a sense for the way to move the tiller. Addinein has enough sense to use his oar and follow directions. His style lacks grace or familiarity, but he gets the job done. (results of wis or alternative checks)
Nonam loses his grip on his oar almost as soon as he puts it in the water, and Jus doesn't do much better of a job. Luckily, Gareth puts plenty of shoulder into the tiller, and Addinein proves to be able to handle an oar with enough muscle to get the job done (results of str checks).
Tericus sits in the middle of the boat and gets soaking wet. (no rolls from Tericus)
Hearing Jus whoop and holler, Clangden feels like maybe he should have ridden with the others. Of course, he could have a sopping wet beard hanging down his chest.
An hour and a half later, the group is through the rapids. Everyone is tired and worn out, but it was fun too. Furthermore everyone worked as a team at a new and difficult task. You all feel a sense of accomplishment and excitement after all the long days on the boat.
The river maintains a brisk pace, so everyone keeps going and tries to dry out in the sun. The vegetation on the banks of the river remains hostile, and on occasion a strangler vine tries to lasso somebody and snatch them off the boat. There are also a punch of spines stuck into the outside of the boat as those dreaded purple flowers shoot at the boat as it passes by.
Eventually Nonam warns Clangden that the flight is about to wear off, and the dwarf lands in the boat, the thrill of flying about worn off by this time anyway.
By day's end, the terrain starts to change. You come out of the jungle, and a vast plain opens up before you as far as the horizon. The river widens up and becomes much more calm. The sun starts to set and the light reflecting off the wide river is truly a sight to behold.
Something strange off in the distance though. It appears to be another dragon. A small one. Silver, white, or blue. It's hard to say at this distance in the failing light. It's near a solitary raincloud that's dumping rain near what appears to be a collection of straw huts.
[and here ends my temporary stint as DM. I understand Tim gets the next 2 weeks. Tim, if Jan or Jerry didn't send you the module already, email me, and I'll send it. jkf@grm.net]
Gareth Saturday April 19th, 2003 8:58:29 AM
The warrior smiles as the Storms make it down the rapids. He makes sure all the equipment that fell out is collected and reorganized. He then directs Clangen and the others to start paddling - as does Gareth. "With all of us working I'd imagine we should be able to make up significant time on our quarry. I doesn't seem he was with a large crew so I doubt they could go as fast as we.". As the dragon comes into sight he looks to the others. "So what do we do? Avoid it or maybe see if we can get it tell us some things - like how far ahead the others are or maybe where we are and where we need to go?".
Addinein d20+6=21 d20+6=18 d20+7=8 Monday April 21st, 2003 3:20:46 AM
"Let's try to see what's going on first, before we make any decisions. First we need to see if we need to worry about that dragon or not."
Addinein quickly focuses his sight on the huts and the dragons. As the sun is setting Addinein should be enjoying an enhancement to his sight as this is more his level of lighting.
Spot - 21 Search - 18 listen - 8 (crit fail)
Tericus Monday April 21st, 2003 11:45:28 AM
"Things sure are weird around here." Tericus says himself. he pulls out a wand and touches himself on the shoulder. a moment later he dissapears from view. "Maybe we should go look and see whats going on. Anyone else want to get invisible?"
Nonam Monday April 21st, 2003 12:09:40 PM
Peering at the dragon in the distance, the wizard offers up his thoughts, "It isn't cold enough for that to be a white dragon, and blues are typically desert dwellers, so that isn't likely. Silver dragons have some control over weather, so that's a good possibility. If it is a good dragon, it could possibly help us find Byron. I suggest investigating. We should approach carefully of course."
Gareth Monday April 21st, 2003 9:23:22 PM
As I recall, Tericus, dragons see invisible things as if they were in plain sight. Lets just go see what's up. Maybe if we getjust a little closer we can see a little more to make sure things are OK.
Jus Monday April 21st, 2003 10:28:42 PM
Jus does a double take, then looks around at the party unbelievably. When he sees that everyone else sees what he sees, Jus looks down at his hands. "I don't think this is a wish ring.... I didn't say 'I wish', did I?"
Jus frowns a bit at Nonam's evaluation, but perks up again quickly, "Perhaps he could tell us where that rotten dragon went."
BigTim (acting ADM) Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 1:15:31 AM
* ok guys, bear with me for a few days so I can get in the hang of things, DMing a live game is different than this *
As you come out of the rapids, and take in the scene before you, the first thing you notice is that the Jungle in which was around you gradually becomes plains. Inviting, rolling plains with grass and spotted areas of trees. Unusually looking trees with branches shooting out in odd directions but inviting nonetheless. Occasionally you see a creature you would think native to the area except for 1 creature that you happen to catch a glimpse of. It is a rather odd looking beast, tan colored hide, that sits upright on rather large looking feet. Sprouting a tail about as thick as Addenien's arm, 2 short arms with clawed hands.
As you look at it, it turns and senses you and watches as you float down the gently floating river then without warning, it begins going away from you, getting faster and farther away until you can't see it anymore. The different between this creature and other creatures you have seen is that it seems to run and hop at the same time.
As you turn a bend in the river, everyone sees off in the distance a grouping of odd looking dwellings. You know them to be such for the fact smoke rises out from the top like normal cookfires and surrounding this village is fields of what looks to be crops of some sort. A strange looking crop but you can tell nonetheless it is, and as you draw nearer, you feel and smell the unmistakeable aroma of fresh rain. Looking closer you can see some of the fields dripping water from the stalks of whatever is planted there.
Jus is the first to see as what looks like a young boy, dressed in a cloth tunic and short breeches in one of the rows of the fields. With sunbleached hair and wide eyes, and a hard tanned colored skin. Dropping whatever impliment he had in his hands he begins racing down a track between you and the crops, waving his arms wildly and yelling something to your eyes as incoherent babbling.
And then another turn in the river puts you in a direct line of sight with the village. Just as you see it you also see the young lad huffing and puffing as he is surrounded by others in the village, where then women gather the young children and huddle them into their homes while men and boys gather about, with odd looking sticks in their hands, along the shoreline and at the only dock.
They do not appear to be making an aggressive stance, protective is more of the word.
As for the flying beast. When you make the turn in the river that puts you on a direct line with the village, you can see it fling off to the north, then, it disappears.
(btw, counting you see approximately 20 people, varying in ages, along the shore and on the dock)
Nonam d20+13=16 Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 10:32:25 AM
Nonam puts on a big friendly smile and shouts out a friendly, "Helloooo!"
He holds his hands out with the palms facing toward the crowd in a gesture of friendliness.
[diplomacy check=16]
Addinein Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 2:07:19 PM
Keeping his voice down for just the party to here, "If needed I can cast comprehend languages when the others are near. But I don't know how they would react to the magic."
Tericus Tuesday April 22nd, 2003 3:24:38 PM
hearing Addinein's words, Tericus decides to stay invisible for now, not wanting to startle any of the villagers
Jus d20+18=38 Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 10:17:07 AM
Jus smiles and waves with Nonam, hoping to portray the party as friends -- but all his weapons probably don't do much to calm their fears.
"This should be interesting," Jus says to no one in particular. "I wonder how long its been since these folk have seen someone come down the river." As he says these words, Jus realizes that Byron may have been the last. And if he came through, the village's cautious greeting could be fully explained.
As they approach, Jus turns to the others with the pretense of encouraging them to wave. While doing this, he scans the water and shore, looking for any possible ambush. Turning back to the group on the dock, Jus glances around for hidden trouble. (Spot roll of natural 20, 38 modified).
Clangden Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 12:04:12 PM
tries his best to look non menacing like the others, even dropping his axe and shield on the deck and leaving his hands open for all to see.
BigTim *acting ADM* Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 12:14:57 PM
Jus notices with his spot check that all is not tranquil, looking to the left of the village is another large section of crops, half of which are about dead and the other half is mush.
To all, the smell of acid hangs just slightly in the air.
As the craft slowly approaches the dock, 2 young men step forward and take ropes, tieing them around the aft and front of the boat to the dock, then stepping back as another man, presumably the leader steps forward.
The first thing you notice about him is on his left hand, he has 6 fingers.
In broken common he steps up on the dock, arm outstretched and palm facing down he says: Welcome travelers on the water of life to our (seems to be fumbling with a word) village.
(time frame: getting to be late afternoon)
Nonam Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 2:54:52 PM
Nonam whispers to Addinein while everyone is on the boat, "Don't worry. I cast a permanent comprehend languages on myself some time ago."
Then when the man speaks, Nonam shoots off a quick smile, "No need anyway it appears."
After the boat lands, Nonam looks to the man speaking and announces, "Greetings. I am Nonam Firstorlast, and these are my companions: Gareth Justinian, Jus the Elf, Clangden Swiftaxe, Addinein de Millithor, and Tericus the Blessed. May Alemi shine down his blessings on you and yours."
Nonam rather pointedly does not refer to the group as the Storm Dragons.
Gareth Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 10:30:48 PM
The warrior looks on as Nonam speaks to the leader. He smiles and nods, content to let Nonam do the intros. With his farming background he looks around at the crops to see if he can determine what has gone wrong with them, wondering if the dragon spoiled the crops.
Addinein Wednesday April 23rd, 2003 11:36:07 PM
Addinein nods in understanding at Nonam. Watching the others as Nonam introduces everyone, Addinein keeps his eyes out for anything untoward.
Clangden d20+9=24 Thursday April 24th, 2003 11:13:51 AM
grabbing his pack, axe and shield Clangden walks off the boat, standing with the others but like addenein, he watches.
(spot 24)
BigTim *acting ADM* Thursday April 24th, 2003 11:29:39 AM
Gareth can assume, without actually walking in to the field, that some type of acid might of been used on the field. What with the acid smell in the air and the field turning to mush.
Addeneins and Clangdens survey of the area and people reveal nothing of hostile intentions. Matter of fact, they see women and children peering out of windows and doors, gawking at the spectacle happening down at the dock. Hushed whisperings can be observed coming from them.
Stepping up to Nonam is the 6 fingered man, arm still outstretched, open palm facing down. Reaching down he takes Nonams wrist with his other hand, and leads it to look opposite his, arm our and open palm facing up. Then, he touches his palm to Nonams and then all the men and boys around the dock go from a worried, protective look to that of jubilation. Smiles erupt on their faces, the odd looking curved sticks go in to belts or hang in hands pointing down to the ground.
The six fingered man says: (still in broken common) Welcome fellow travelers on the water of life to our village. We were unawares that there were others in the area and would be happy to listen to your story but first, (patting his belly) it is time for sustenance and we welcome you all to our table. Let us partake of nourishment and company at the table and when we have had our fill, let us talk about each other.
Unless the group resists, you are escourted in to a large building made of stone, wood, straw and mud where, upon entering you notice 4 rows of tables. 3 facing lengthways and the 4th crossed at the top. Waftings of delicious food is smelled upon entering this building, and your bellies begin to rumble and you realize that it has been a long time since a decent meal has been had by you all.
You are all given chairs at the 3rd table, closest to the 4th table.
Pretty soon everyone it seems that is from the village is there, sitting, smiling, Gawking and whispering while pointing to you as the food is served. Meat on the bone, Vegetables of various colors, Gravy that has a spiciness to it is served as well as jugs of water.
You do notice that on the 4th table, one chair is empty, as well as on the first table, 2 on the 2nd table and 4 on the 3rd table.
Nonam Thursday April 24th, 2003 2:18:51 PM
Nonam surveys the bounty and exclaims, "It looks and smells delicious. We've been on the water for several days, and the hot meal is most welcome. You have our sincere thanks for your hospitality."
"I hope that you don't mind if I perform a ceremony of blessing over our food. It's a custom of ours." Assuming permission is given, Nonam uses the ruse to cast detect poison. If the food is safe, he eats with pleasure and tries to make small talk with the 6 fingered man or whoever else sat with the group.
"Ahhh, the food is excellent. Some of the best that I've ever tasted.... So what is the name of this pleasant town? You seem to be very isolated. I never even knew that there was a settlement in this area."
Clangden d20+9=11 Thursday April 24th, 2003 5:58:15 PM
leaning his axe against the table beside him and putting his armor and shield against the wall behind him, Clangden takes his seat. When Nonam says grace, he bows his head and places his palms, face up on the table. After that is said, wordlessly he eats his meal, all the while keeping an eye on the surroundings. Always expecting the worst.
(spot of 11)
Addinein Thursday April 24th, 2003 11:03:26 PM
Having plenty of questions about what can be seen around the village. Addinein openly displays his heritage and watches how the people react to him.
Tericus Friday April 25th, 2003 7:09:05 AM
fading into view before the group goes to eat, Tericus goes with the rest of the group. once they begin eating, he asks the nearest native "Why are those seats empty?"
Gareth Friday April 25th, 2003 7:54:38 AM
The warrior does not resist the offer of hospitality. He waits to see what the man will say regarding the field, content to not force the issue since they were stopping for the night anyway and would much prefer to sleep on dry ground.
BigTim *acting ADM* d20+24=30 Friday April 25th, 2003 9:45:49 AM
Addenein draws stares and points from people, especially the children as do Clangden.
Since no question was asked about the fields, Gareth, no answer is given.
One of the townsfolks sitting near Tericus hears his question and replies: except for <pointing at the empty chair at the head table and a chair near the door> those 2, the other empty chairs are those who was taken from us.
As Nonam says grace, the door opens up. In walks an aging gentleman, dressed in a dark colored tunic and breeches, walking with a slight limp and using a gnarled branch that was formed in to a cane. Taking off his hat, he places it on the back of the chair and after taking his seat he leans his cane against the table beside him. Eyeing the group without emotion as Nonam determines that the food is not poisoned, he then goes back to the food that is brought to him. You notice that the people dont really speak to him except for the serving people, and only to answer his replies or to ask a question. You also notice that unlike the villagers, all who are human, this man has a slight point in his ears. Unmistakeable of that of a Half Elf.
After Nonam says Grace, and after the man takes in his first mouthful, in Draconic he says aloud to noone in particular, but you know it's directed to you Nonam. So, is the food poisoned?
Bringing the group back to the people of the village is a answer from the six fingered man: Hone. (not a mispelling) And where is your hone? does it have a name too? are everyone in your hone like you? he rumbles off alot of question in succession then realizing, he says: there will be plenty of time to ask and answer questions, let us partake of this sustenance, enjoy its taste and then after, we will talk. And with that said, everyone digs in.
Nonam Friday April 25th, 2003 3:30:21 PM
Nonam smiles wryly and answers the half elf in draconic, "Not today."
Feeling that he's done enough of the talking, he decides to let one of the other party members answer the questions about "hone."
If no one else comments he'll start telling about the Floating City.
Tericus Saturday April 26th, 2003 10:37:11 AM
Tericus begins to ask about the missing people, but he decides that its not the best time to ask that, so he continues to eat and drink, though he keeps an eye on the newcomer
Addinein Monday April 28th, 2003 1:18:48 AM
Not wanting to confuse the poor man and wanting to see how he takes the information from Nonam, Addinein holds off on giving over any information about his ancestral home. Taking his time over the meal, Addinein looks at the food being served, and compares it beteen the floating city, and the food of his ancestors.
BigTim *acting ADM* Monday April 28th, 2003 12:22:52 PM
The meal served was not elaborate like you are all used to, but it filled the emptyness with a tasteful morsel. About halfway through the meal Nonam begins telling stories of the Floating City. (Nonam, please post that roleplay, you are new to them and I dont want to assume as to what you told them)
The people stop talking among themselves and listen intently to Nonam.
The Half Elf motions a server to take his plate. He gathers his things and moves to the 4th table, next to the six fingered man. Standing there he waits for the person sitting there to move to an empty chair without saying anything, then takes his place. The server places his half eaten plate of food before him and scurries off.
Leaning forward slightly, he half eats while listening.
Since he is now closer, you can tell for sure that he is a Half Elf, and his age appears older than you have ever seen, wrinkles galore and small age blotches on both cheeks, gnarled hands.
All is silent. Until.
Landing on the back of Clangden's chair is the Parott. the children starts pointing and laughing so do some of the adults. Looking to the left then right, the Parott flitters to the table besides Clangdens plate and starts eating some of the uncooked veggies and an occassional bug that happens to get in range.
Nonam Monday April 28th, 2003 3:18:15 PM
"Well, let's see, we come from what is known as the Floating City. It gets this name because it floats on a lake. I don't mean that the city is on an island, I mean that it literally floats on a lake. It was originally constructed by an ancient race of people known as the Teucri. They were capable of wondrous feats, and our home is one of them. The Teucri are no long gone, but the Floating City remains a testament to their knowledge.
Now to the city itself, I can't begin to tell you how it floats. That's never been something that I wondered much about. I suppose it sounds strange, but that's just what the city did. I sort of took it for granted I suppose. Anyway, the city is built in layers. We have the trash level on the bottom. It is below the water line and is continually dark. The lowest sort of people live there. Crime is rampant. Above is the Fence level. This level is on the water, and it's filled with taverns and smells continually of fish. It can be rough, but the guards ensure order because this is where visitors to our city first arrive. The next level up is the Barracks level. The city's guards are housed on this level and there are a few shops that cater to them and sell things like swords and armor. The heavy presence of guards here helps keep criminals from drifting up to the nicer portions of the city. Up above is the merchant level. Here are most of the city's shops and restaraunts. There are a few inns, and it is a comfortale place. Good merchants, artisans, and craftsmen make their home on this level. The next level up is known as the Gold Level. This is where the wealthy make their homes, and there are some shops that cater to them. Then, the upper most level is what we call the Open Air Level. This level opens up to the sky. The others do not because there is another level on top of them, of course. This would make the other levels seem dark and claustrophobic if it were not for the Teucri magic that brought in daylight. Anyway, the Open Air level is the place where any citizen can go for fresh air. We have our temples up there, and the palace of our governor, the Overlord. There is also an amusement park known as the Diamond Midway. It gives all the people a chance to come up and experience fresh air from time to time. It's a favorite hangout when the youth go out on dates."
As for the location of our city, that is an interesting tale indeed. Not so long ago, the city was located on large lake in New Elennia on one of the plateaus of the New Elennian peninsula. It had been there since its creation centuries ago. Then at the end of the war with the Dark God last year, the city was moved. The people merely woke up one morning to find the city on a different lake. It didn't fly there or anything. It just was there one morning. I can't explain it, and I know a good bit about magic. That's what we're doing now. Trying to figure out where our city moved too. We sailed south on the lake and followed a river through the jungle til we arrived here at your village.
And you are the first people that we've encountered since the city was moved. We're anxious to figure out just where we are and if we can figure out a way to reestablish trade routes with the people of New Elenna."
Clangden Monday April 28th, 2003 4:07:53 PM
feeding the bird some small pieces of food, Clangden whispers to it. motioning a few of the children to him he, if they come, holds the bird and lets them pet it. telling the children to be nice to the animal, that it has feelings too.
Clangden's mood seems to lighten up at this point. a small smile can be seen forming.
Tericus Monday April 28th, 2003 8:41:53 PM
"Yeah, what he said" Tericus says, pointing at Nonam
Gareth Monday April 28th, 2003 10:07:52 PM
The warrior sits back and smiles as the mage amazes with his stories. He decides to just eat, drink, and enjoy the fun. He bides his time to ask about the destroyed crops, missing people, and Byron to see what the folk tell them.
Jus (by JK) Tuesday April 29th, 2003 11:17:36 AM
Listening to Nonam's tale, Jus blurts out when Nonam mentions the Overlord's palace, "And Nonam here is in love with the Overlord." The elf grins from ear to ear and hopes he can get the mage to blush.
[since John is going to be gone for about another week, I'll post for Jus unless somebody objects]
BigTim *acting ADM* Tuesday April 29th, 2003 12:28:26 PM
The men at the head table listens intently to Nonams tale, they smile when the Parrot flies in and when Jus tries to make the Mage blush.
The half elf says to the other men at the table: isn't it time for the children be put to bed and the women tend the fires? and as if on cue, the Six Fingered man stands up, claps his hands together one time and says to the hall: time for bed, women, please tend to the children.
with awws from the children, the women clear off the tables and usher the children out of the hall and after a few long minutes, when the hall is finally empty save for the Storms and the men at the head table, the Half Elf nods at one of the other men who dutifullessly goes to a fireplace. pulling out a large rock, he reaches in and pulls out 2 dusty bottles. placing the rock back where it goes he brings the bottles back, placing one on your table and one on their table. popping the cork in yours the man places a empty cup in front of each of you, then pours it about 1/4 way full of this dark, thick, aromatic liquid. as he is doing this, another man is doing the same on the other table, same type of liquid.
when all the cups are filled, the men at the head table move to sit opposite you at your table.
the Half Elf is first to pipe up saying: how is it if this city of yours, that in all its splendor and grand magic, can't you determine where you are? If you have all these temples there, why do the Gods not answer your divinations? did you do something to have the gods decide to torment you and the people by sending you here without any way of finding out answers to simple questions? and what of your , overlord? is she like a king? you said this "trash" level is full of thieves and criminals, why do you allow them to survive there? what's to keep them from getting out of the city, and turning this area in to a wasteland? for every action there is a reaction. how do we keep this village safe when their are ruffians about now?
his questions are endless. after about 15 minutes of asking, he finally quites down like hes expecting you to remember each question and answer them all accordingly.
the other men sit quietly. watching, waiting.
Addinein Tuesday April 29th, 2003 3:50:11 PM
As the half-elf speaks Addinein inspects the drink in the cup. As the half-elf continues Addinein decides that he'll let the leaders of the group answer this one because Addinein realizes he doesn't have this many answers.
Gareth Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:23:44 PM
The warrior listens to the questions and offers a few answers. "The thieves play by certain rules. If they break them then the city guard or other special forces are sent to deal with them. They would never turn this into a wasteland as it would not be to their advantage. I was wondering something myself. Why was the dragon here? It would appear he destroyed your crops. We were at a distance and didn't see exactly what it did.".
DEH Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:26:11 PM
OOC: All, I am out of town a few days and I will not be able to post. Tomorrow (Wednesday) I can but TH, F and then M, T of next week I am not able. Will anyone post for Gareth? Thanks.
DEH Tuesday April 29th, 2003 10:33:35 PM
Email is gareth-3@juno.com
Clangden Wednesday April 30th, 2003 7:40:46 AM
politely as he can, when the man serving the obvious alcoholic refreshment gets to his cup, he places his hand over the empty cup saying: no thank you, I have taken an oath against such libation, water will be just fine. Clangden then goes back to tending to the parrot while listening in to the conversation.
Nonam Wednesday April 30th, 2003 10:38:19 AM
Rather than blush, Nonam shoots Jus a withering look.
He listens to the half-elf's, and he thinks about answering them all individually. Then he decides on a different course of action, "I wish I knew all the answers. Regardless of what they may be, the city is there, and answers won't make it go away. It is several days journey from here, and the trip is a difficult one. That will cut down on your ruffian factor quite a bit. Our city is not nearly so big a problem as a big black dragon. We saw one over the lake a few days ago, and it looks like something sprayed your crops acid. I can only surmise that the dragon we saw caused this destruction. I'd hate to think there was more than 1 black flying around here. I'm wondering why the silver that we saw flying over the village when we arrived hasn't done anything about it. Aren't silvers more powerful than blacks?"
Nonam stares at the half-elf for a moment and starts to put some things together in his mind. An ancient, out of place, half-elf. A dragon that was probably silver. Quick disappearance of the silver dragon. Silvers can polymorph and like to do so. The half-elf speaks draconic. Could it be?
The wizard suddenly changes course, "Have you ever heard of the dragon consortium? Or of the Dragonstone?"
Jus Wednesday April 30th, 2003 10:39:27 AM
Jus shrugs off Nonam's look. Everyone else really needs to have some fun. The boat ride is over, and its time to relax. Of course the dragons seem interesting. Maybe the group would get to fight the black. That could be fun!
BigTim *acting ADM* Wednesday April 30th, 2003 1:41:03 PM
the Half Elf nods his head slowly, frowning his mouth from time to time as all speaks, but seems to listen more when Nonam speaks.
When the mention of a Black Dragon is made, the other men at the table get frowns on their face that turn to sadness on some and others just nod their heads.
The six fingered man says: yes, you are correct, we have had some problems with a Black. Our fields get sprayed and at times it swoops down and carries off a villager. Just 2 days ago it took one of ours and headed toward the swamp to the southwest. If you remember, the empty seats at the meal? those were villagers who have been taken from us. We are farmers, and some times hunters when we need extra sustenance, we are not great takers like yourselves. As for the silver you asked about
The six fingered man is cut off by the Half Elf at this moment, giving him a stern look, then turns his attention to the group saying: in time, perhaps, you may meet her, but she is shy and wishes to remain away from such spectacles of men. She was attacked by the Black and being young she could not defend herself properly. We found her and rescued her from death, nursed her back to health and now, with her ability to control the weather, helps keep our crops well fed with much needed rain.
Right when he pauses the door bursts open, and a youth runs up to the head table and start blurting out rapidly Derakisgoneheleftanotesayinghewentafterhis the other men get him to calm down and when he does he continues. I checked the fire and it is a few days old, that's why he hasnt been to nourishment times for the past few days.
The men at the table start murmuring to each other, like village elders do, then the Half Elf says: Enough. Everyone gets quiet. He nods to each of them. Not with anger but pity and remorse, and then turns to the group and speaks: Derak, as the boy spoke of, is an Elder as well. It was his wife who was just taken from us and I am afraid he has gone in search of her. The boy says his bow, arrows and hunting knife are also missing and we are afraid he has gone off to get himself killed. If he hasn't already done so.
(guys, I messed up and I apologize, I was suppose to give you names almost from the start of supper, and I forgot. like I said to please bear with me at the start of my dming, so Im gonna tell you the six fingered man's name and the Half Elf and you can pretend you knew all along, again, my apologies)
Half Elf: Lathiese Six Fingered Man: Alorrn
Nonam Wednesday April 30th, 2003 3:36:58 PM
Deciding that Lathiese probably isn't a dragon afterall, Nonam frowns at the story of Derak.
Nonam looks to Gareth and nods when the story of Derak is told to the party. He hopes that Gareth understands that the wizard wants him to speak for the group on this subject. He also hopes that Gareth understands that the nod was meant to suggest that the group should help. Was he being too subtle? Probably.
Tericus Wednesday April 30th, 2003 7:14:50 PM
"I hope he didnt go after that Black." Tericus says. "By the way Lathiese, we saw what we thought was a black dragon, but it looked like it was dead. Is the one plaguing your village also dead?"
Gareth Wednesday April 30th, 2003 8:36:42 PM
The warrior takes the cue from Nonam. "Sounds like we should go and help him. Perhaps we can locate the Black in question and do something about it bothering you any more. That is, if you would like our help...". He looks to the leaders to see what they say.
Addinein Thursday May 1st, 2003 2:54:32 AM
Addinein leans forward in anticpation of what the leaders say after Gareth suggests that the group should help find Derak.
Jus (by JK) Thursday May 1st, 2003 10:20:56 AM
While trying to maintain a serious look, Jus imagines what the dragon fight could be like while the others discuss it. It reaches down and snatches up Nonam in its jaws, stomps Clangden with a front claw, and wraps its tail around Gareth. Tericus is unconcious and Addinein is trapped under the rock that fell from the ceiling when Nonam's fireball dislodged it. The situation looks bleak for the Storm Dragons, but then the mighty elf draws back his bow and lets a careful shot fly!
The arrow travels like it was in slow motion straight for the dragon. It hits the dragon square in the chest, penetrates right through its scaly hide, and pierces its heart. Its dead!
What an adventure!
Clangden Thursday May 1st, 2003 12:53:49 PM
nods in agreement with Gareth.
BigTim *acting ADM* Thursday May 1st, 2003 1:06:42 PM
when Gareth offers the group to help the village with the Black Dragon menace, and hopefully the rescue of Derak, the head table begins to murmur, with everyone save one nodding approval.
Lathiese speaks up: the only thing we might be able to offer you is, advice in the area, and some tactics when fighting certain things. take for instance we are sure you have encountered the purple sunflowers? that shoot needles at you? well, to defeat it with little threat to a large group is, you send in a decoy, someone with the ability to dodge in and out of danger easily, with alot of toughness, and while he has the attention of the plant, the others search out the core and destroy it, destroying all its sunflowers in the process. and we can offer your city something as well. rid us of this dragon menace, and then have some of your sages come here, and we will show them how to live off this land, how to hunt and eat the beasts, and I personally will help them in determining where exactly you all are.
Alorrn stands up when Lathiese is finished and says: we accept your offer in helping, as Lathiese says, we will assist you any way we can, but you must understand, we can not send anyone with you. what crops we do have are almost to the point where it is time to harvest and we need every able body to do that before the dragon returns.
one of the other Edlers stands up, raises his cup and says: to the Hero's before us, may they thrive in thier endeavor, may they come back safely, and may they find justice for our fallen friends.
BigTim Thursday May 1st, 2003 8:41:42 PM
hence ends my stint as DM. Jan comes back tomorrow.
YAH!
DM Jan Friday May 2nd, 2003 1:55:26 AM
((OOC - kudos to JK and Tim - excellent play, and thank you for covering for me. My apologies for an early post, only I'm away from the comp tomorrow until Sunday, and I want to set things up for the next scene. Take both mine and Tim's last post into account when posting.))
DM Jan Friday May 2nd, 2003 2:28:55 AM
It's getting very late, and there's a lot of planning to be done.
Alorrn tells the group they will gladly accomodate them for the night, only they might have to sleep in different places because there isn't room for everyone.
Outside, torches are staked here and there throughout the village, and moths the size of ogres fists flit dangerously near the flames. Beyond the light - pitch blackness, an acrid smell, and the sound of endless toads, frogs and other night beasts.
Some of the men smoke pipes outside their huts and talk softly amongst themselves before retiring for the night, and the Storms are offered to partake. It appears to be safe enough to split up.
Lathiese is seen wandering off to his own hut. (SPOT CHECK with regard to this character here please.)
Eventually, the group is told where they can be accomodated for the night. Scattered about the village -
Clangden - "Man with two voices" is billeted with a young widow and seven children, who are all wide awake and staring at him like owls.
Addinein, Jus and Gareth are placed in a hut with four young women - lean-limbed, scantily dressed. Weaponry stacked by the door, and hard predatory eyes suggest these ladies are hunters, and certainly not shy or afraid of the men now in their midst.
Nonam and Tericus get to stay in Derak's empty hut. It's bit chilly because the fire has burned out in the hearth. It looks as though someone has tried to burn some papers there but didn't quite manage it.
((Guys, I need you to tell me exactly what your character does this night.))
Clangden d20+7=18 Friday May 2nd, 2003 6:08:26 AM
rummaging through his pack, Clangden produces a toy for each of the 7 children, made out of wood. a horse, bird, doll, ball, wagon, boat, dog. thanking the widow for her hospitality, he hands her 2 sunrods and tells her how they work. he also will leave her 10 gold coins on one of the table chairs before he leaves.
Clangden goes outside, and partakes of the offered tobacco, listening to the villagers tales and adding some of his own. saying goodnight to them, he goes back to the home, and sleeps but 2 hours (having ring of sustenance) and then goes outside the home, and stands watch outside, in full gear.
(spot check of 17 for Lathiese)
Clangden also lets the children mess with the parrot a bit before making it a nest in one of the rafters in the hut.
Tericus d20+13=15 Friday May 2nd, 2003 9:10:23 AM
(spot check of 15)Teriucs goes straight to his hut after dinner. when he gets there he casts divination in order to find out if the black dragon is undead or not. afterwards he goes to sleep and memorizes his spells for the next day
Nonam d20-3=-1 Friday May 2nd, 2003 10:50:20 AM
As the elders speak of what rewards they can offer to the party, Nonam responds, "We'd be grateful for the sort of information you're talking about, but we don't expect any sort of reward."
Nonam doesn't spot anything as he walks to the hut. In fact, he has trouble even noticing the hut.
As Nonam and Tericus enter their quarters, the wizard looks around, then he offers to Tericus, "You know I was thinking of how to ward this room since we don't really have anyone to guard it tonight, and I thought to myself, we could teleport back to Floating City, spend the night in our beds, and teleport back here in the morning before anyone ever missed us. Now that I have a specific location to memorize, it would be easy to do. If any of our friends miss us or if there's trouble, they should be able to contact us on the Dragon rings."
The wizard gives the cleric a half serious look and says, "I really think we should."
Nonam sets about memorizing the hut for the return trip. Then he sends the rest of the party a message through the Dragon ring, "Be sure to contact everyone through the rings if there's trouble in the night. Oh, and nobody should come into our hut without alerting me first. I've trapped it, and I don't want to blow anyone up."
Nonam grins at Tericus, "Are you ready?" Then he teleports the pair into Nonam's room in Storm Dragon mansion (provided the cleric is willing of course). If Tericus won't go, he won't leave either.
Assuming they leave for the night: Back in the mansion, he finds Mitchum and asks for an early wakeup call. He also drafts a note to the Overlord telling her about the village and the dragon. He passes it into Mitchum's care for delivery after he and Tericus leave.
Addinein d20=13 Friday May 2nd, 2003 6:58:53 PM
(sheet not on me, add appropriate spot bonus)
Settling in for the night Addinein adjusts to the caution his hosts appear to be showing. Letting Gareth and Jus answer any initial questions, Addinein lightly meditates for as long as the others are engaged in talk. Addinein lets Gareth and Jus know through the Dragon ring that 'You two get some sleep when you are ready. I will do my best to talk with them, and keep an eye on things around here.'
Accustomed to not being trusted, the women don't phase Addinein with their stares or facial expressions.
Tericus Friday May 2nd, 2003 10:34:54 PM
"Sure, lets go. It would be nice to stay in my bed." Tericus says to Nonam
DM Jan Monday May 5th, 2003 12:21:13 PM
Goings on in various huts....
Hut 1 - the widow thanks Clangden profusely for the gifts. She tells him that all good things come out of the jungle (as the Storms appear to have done). "Like the jungle girl!" says one of the kids. Clangden is told about a girl who visits them occasionally, who has silver hair and who can't speak, and that they mash up her food then she can eat. "She came to us at the same time as Cloud. Cloud helps with our crops. We found it torn and bleeding strange blood in our fields, and so we helped it. We help her too. A beast must have caught her in the jungle, and she cannot eat like we can." He gets the impression that they have a very naive attitude toward strangers, and that perhaps they have little experience when it comes to newcomers in their midst - very open, completely lacking in suspicion. Outside with the pipe smokers, some of the men ask him to elaborate on what Nonam told them earlier about the Big Float. They seem to be totally in wonder about it. They are also having a good chuckle about seeing a boat sail past a few days ago. They could see two men ducking and hiding inside it - and it sailed right past them. They thought it funny, and odd. Clangden will note other slight oddities about some of them - extra fingers, one of the men has only one ear, but they seem healthy enough. This seemed to be an odd place all together, as though things weren't quite right. He'd noticed Lathiese looking strangely at him occasionally, his weapons in particular.
Over in Hut 2 - Addinein gets another story from the girls as Gareth and Jus get a little rest. Snippets of conversation (with the local colloquialisms stripped out) - "We seem to be surrounded by misfortune. Just when we think everything is going to be alright, something bad happens, and that horrible dragon comes along and ruins everything." "We wanted to go and find out where it lives, but Lathiese says its too dangerous." "I don't know why the men listen to him. He isn't one of us anyway." "He's supposed to be wise." "How can someone who's lived so long be wise? We all know you lose your mind when you get old. He must have lost his ten times over." Laughter. Laughter stops. "We want to go after Derak, Lathiese won't let us." "We could go anyway." "Yes, but these people are here now." Addinein will note the girls seem a little angry, and like Clangden will get the impression of a naive honesty coming from these people.
Hut 3 - Nonam sets up some wards, and WOOSH - he and Tericus teleport back to the Float to spend a MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE night at the mansion. Mitchum says he'll deliver the letter to the Overlord personally. "Having fun?" he asks, in his usual deadpan manner. The teleports go without a hitch - and early morning finds them back in the village. The night before, Tericus's divination will have revealed a life aura surrounding a black dragon, that an undead one would not possess. As for the villagers - funny old bloke, that half elf Lathiese is too, he may wonder. The way he kept looking at Tericus's fingers. Creepy.
Dawn breaks and for the first time in a long while, the Storms will notice a few slivers of morning sunshine breaking through the barrier of cloud that hands oppressively to the north, over the jungle. The villagers are up and about, getting breakfast, grabbing tools ready to enter the crop fields.
Clangden Monday May 5th, 2003 2:03:17 PM
when Clangden sees the other Storms rousing, he asks one of the villagers where lathiese resides, and goes there.
knocking on the door, he waits for him to either open it or yells a command to enter.
*if he opens the door* standing there, he looks at Lathiese in his eyes and says: what is it that you want from us really? why are you here? you obviously aren't the same as them, and why are they frightened of you?
*if he commands an entrance* Clangden enters the hut, shutting the door behind him. seeing where he is Clangden steps up to him and <asks the questions above>
Note: he is carrying his axe and his shield is in its cradle on his back, ready to be called forth. pack is left next to the front door of the hut he stayed in. so is the parrot.
Nonam Monday May 5th, 2003 2:30:34 PM
Nonam breakfasts and memorizes new spells in Floating City.
When the pair arrive back in the village, Nonam has a hard time looking at Tericus when the others are around without laughing.
He moseys (is that how you spell that?) on over to the breakfast area and waits for the group to begin the expedition.
[Is anyone playing Gareth for DEH? I'd do it, but I'm still running Jus. I think John said he would be back today though.]
Addinein Tuesday May 6th, 2003 8:00:43 AM
Addinein listens to the girls intently as they chatter away at him. As the girls converse about age, Addinein is unsure of what to say since in human years he could be considered old. He's not sure how the girls/villagers would react to what he has to say either.
"Lathiese is probably right that it is very dangerous to go after a creature like that. If they were easy to kill, then you would have them as a source of meat for your village. Did you happen to see how BIG this creature is?
Everyone in the Big Float would have second thoughts about going after a Dragon, even if it was bothering the city.
Tell me more about Lathiese. What's he like, how long has he been here, does he have any family, what can you tell me of the surrounding area, how far have you travelled from the village on your own? How many people live here?"
(ooc since Addinein can stay up most of the night, if you want to carry the conversation on in e-mail, let me know. (eventually the girls will tire and go to bed ;) ))
Tericus Tuesday May 6th, 2003 8:52:18 AM
before they go to breakfast, Tericus tells him "The dragon is alive. Also, people keep staring at my fingers. Weird." then he goes off looking for some breakfast, hoping to find some bacon
Jus (by JK) Tuesday May 6th, 2003 10:27:06 AM
Jus wakes Gareth up early for a little sparring. "We've been cramped up for so long, I need to get a little practice in before we face the dragon. Plus, the villagers might like a show."
DM Jan Tuesday May 6th, 2003 2:21:49 PM
Clangden is directed toward Lathiese's hut, only to discover that the old half elf is not at home. Allorn happens to be walking past. "I think Lathiese has gone walkabout," he says, his nodding toward the distant marshes and the mountains. "I think thats where he finds his eels. He has a funny diet, all he'll eat is fish. Strange though, I thought he would have been here this morning. Unless he's gone looking for Derak. But now you're here." He shrugs before continuing. "You must tell me what you all need. Anything we have that might help, we will give you gladly. Did you come by that parrot in the jungle?"
Breakfast in the village is highlighted by a blistering display of martial arts between Jus and Gareth - their techniques echoing their vastly different body types, and both proving equally effective. Nonam and Tericus will note that the villagers are astounded and completely in awe, and a growing positive expectation seems to be growing amongst them.
A little distance away, out on her own, a young girl is watching. She wears the same clothes as the villagers, but she has very long, startlingly silver hair, and even from a distance, looks to be horribly disfigured.
Smooth talking rascal Addinein (who knew? ;) ) has managed to get a lot more info on the place by talking to the girl hunters well into the night. No one can remember a time when Lathiese was not with them. Rumour has it, that he traveled with the first walkers who made their expedition across the Wasted Lands in the West, before they settled here. That was years and years ago - well before the girls were born. They say that the missing man Derak is the storyteller, and that he knows a lot more about the history of their people, where they came from etc. As for the girls themselves, they are proud to tell him of their accomplishments - how they fish in the river, hunt plains creatures, to supplement the villagers crop diet, and how they've even ventured a little into the marshes to the east, and the jungle to the north. No one goes West. They believe, from stories told, no life exists there, and the land is poisoned and 'changes' people. Addinein will recognise some of their jungle tales after his own experiences, although they mention there is some kind of stone building with a door, that none of them can open.
They ask him quite a few questions, too - why is his skin a different colour? Did he come from the Wasted Lands too? One of them shows him her feet. She has webbed toes. Is the Floating City like a giant boat? How big is the lake? On and on and on.
A few of the villagers ask Tericus and Nonam if they want any supplies, directions, anything else.
Clangden Tuesday May 6th, 2003 4:16:51 PM
says to Aloorn" nothing that I know of, Nonam would probably know what we need. As for the Parrot, we found him in the jungle right after we woke up. he kinda adopted us and I keep him fed and tended to. at least he fains listening to me when the others wont.
thanking him, Clangden goes to the hut, retrieves his pack, then heads towards the offstanding girl. in every attempt to not scare her, and to approach in a friendly manner. Clangden even has the parrot standing on his right forearm as he aproaches.
Addinein Wednesday May 7th, 2003 1:27:18 AM
Trying his best to keep the motion of the questioning to his advantage, Addinein asks "what is the Wasted Land?"
If that doesn't keep the girls busy for awhile, then Addinein will briefly describe a little bit about how he grew up. That he used to live under the ground with his family. That some of the people in the group rescued his family from possible destruction by helping them to move up to the surface.
Addinein smiles timidly as he continues to talk with the girls. It is rare for him to be asked this questions as if it were some children asking questions. Not like military precision questioning, which has happened in the past for him.
Tericus Wednesday May 7th, 2003 10:12:51 AM
"Im not sure if we need anything, but directions would be nice. Can you think of anything we need Nonam?" Tericus asks Nonam
Nonam Wednesday May 7th, 2003 11:31:24 AM
"I have a few questions about the dragon. They may seem strange, but that could prove useful to me in determining its power. The fewer suprises that a dragon has the better. How powerful is its magical fear? Does it terrify everyone in the village when it flies over or only a few? Have you seen evidence of it causing water to stagnate or become foul? Has it ever brought a plague of insects to the village? And has it ever cast any spells? If so, did it favor fire, lightning, or perhaps something else. And finally, has it ever attempted communication? Surely it must want something from your village or it would have simply destroyed it. Do you know what it wants?"
DM Jan Wednesday May 7th, 2003 8:21:18 PM
Addinein isn't able to glean much more information from the girls. If its geographical answers he wants, it seems like Derak is the one to talk to. He may also find it quite refreshing that these young women are talking to him as an equal, and are not treating him as the females in his homeland would.
While Gareth and Jus continue to OOOH and AAAH some of the gathered villagers, others try to answer Tericus and Nonam's questions.
"It always flies that way," says one, pointing in an easterly direction, where cragged, ruinous mountains break the distant skyline. "I wish Lathiese was here to tell you more. He's been the closest to the lair by all accounts. He said the horror turned him away once he got close, and warned us never to go there. None of the rest of us has dared go - except for Derak... gone to find his wife, a few days ago. He won't find her, you know. No one comes ba -"
The man stops, suddenly embarrassed, as it hits him where the Storm Dragons will be going.
Nonam's questions bring forth a flurry of discussion amongst the villagers listening. There's a general agreement that the black dragon is pretty frightening, and that it takes a while for them to recover their wits.
"I've wandered a little ways up there," offers one of the girls Addinein had been talking to, as the discussion distracts her away from the sparring. "It stinks - the water is bad and there are clouds of flies." She shrugs. "But its a swamp. Thats what swamps are like. I turned back when I saw a skeleton in one of the pools. There's a bad atmosphere. Derak must be crazy to go there."
They all seem quite baffled when Nonam asks about spells - a few faces look toward him, trying to figure out whether he's gone daft. They've no answer as to what the dragon wants, either.
About 50 yards away, Clangden and the parrot approach the silver haired girl with the ruined face. The parrot bobs its head up and down, and the girl smiles - or tries to. Two steps closer, and the dwarf experiences a shiver - fear? - something like that. It comes and goes, as fast as lightning. Weird - because he's experienced something like that before, and worse - and not all that long ago, either. The girl turns and bolts across the field.
Gareth and Jus finish their bout and bow to the crowd. Cracks in the cloud suggest the sun above it is starting to climb.
Gareth Wednesday May 7th, 2003 11:10:52 PM
The warrior takes time to clasp arms with his long time friend before moving on. Understanding from the others that they have all the info they are going to get he suggest they move on and get the journey started. "I'd say we should attempt to overtake Derak. I would wonder about the disappearance of the old man as well. That seems odd...".
Clangden Thursday May 8th, 2003 1:00:30 AM
stopping in his tracks as the girl bolts, he looks at the bird and says to it: see there, you scared her off. we need to work on your people skills. and with that said he raises his arm up high and fast, releasing the bird.
turning about, he heads back in to the village and to where everyone else is.
when arriving, Clangden sets out all his gear, unpacking and repacking his stuff. then, he dons his equipment and puts everything in their optimum reaching spots. when all is set, he commands his shield forth, then, heafting his axe, he takes a few 5 or 7 swings, making sure all is ready. he then commands his shield to stop, and then goes to Addenein and asks he put his shield back in its cradle on his back.
Clangden then sits on a stump, with a look of readiness across his face.
Nonam (endurance +4, cat's grace +4) d4+1=4 d100=43 d4+1=2 d100=27 d4+1=5 d100=77 d4+1=4 d100=48 Thursday May 8th, 2003 11:47:16 AM
Nonam mutters to himself, "So they believe in dragons but not magic. Brilliant."
Nonam wishes Lathiesse were around. If he recognized the detect poison spell, he might know the answers about spells.
As the group gathers up and is about to head off, the wizard offers, "The villagers haven't been much help to me in determining the strength of the dragon. It is clearly an adult. If Lathiesse were around, or if the silver would have let Clangden speak to her... yes I saw that. Silver's polymorph into human form quite readily you know, at first I thought it was Lathiesse, but the silver haired girl fits much better don't you think. Anyway, from having seen it it's clearly an adult. I had the opportunity last night to read up on black dragons," Nonam grins at Tericus and continues, "As everyone knows, they breathe acid. I have a potion to protect myself, and I've memorize a protection from acid spell this morning. I can cast it 3 times, and it will last just under 3 hours when I cast it. I suggest Gareth and Clangden get two of the castings. I'll let Tericus, Jus, and Addinein decide who gets the 3rd. Though I imagine Tericus' god will grant him some form of protection. Now, black dragons, as most everyone knows, can cast a magical darkness. I've memorized a daylight spell to counteract that. So if the world goes dark, know that I will dispell it soon after. As for what other powers it might have, I can't say. It can probably cast a few spells, but nothing as powerful as what Tericus and I can cast. It will be smart and I would favor fighting it outside its lair if it can manage."
"I've prattled on enough. Are we ready?"
Nonam casts endurance on himself and is ready to go. Nonam casts endurance on Clangden (+2 con) and Gareth (+5 con) too. There that should last you two all day. I can do Bull's Strength when we're closer. With the wand it only lasts about 4 hours.
Then he casts cat's grace on himself (Dex +4), and he takes off his gloves of dexterity. "Does someone else want to wear these? They won't work with the spell."
Addinein Thursday May 8th, 2003 8:43:04 PM
Watches as Gareth and Jus do their thing. When asked, he'll help Clangden get his shield back into the pack.
Commenting to the group when they are along, "that one that spoke over there. They were anxious to talk about the goings on in the village. It almost sounds as if they've isolated themselves here, because it sound like they don't explore much."
Addinein then goes on to relay the information that he got during the night.
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