Going Home (DM MikeK) Friday October 24th, 2003 10:39:58 AM
Talen looks at the offered wineskin with apprehension. "Uh, after you," he says suspiciously. Once Bog takes a swig, the warrior gratefully takes several himself. "Thanks," he tells the elf, relaxing slightly.
Tionel can't find any red stuff to take. Apparently, it was all in the crystal vial the Jack of Diamonds guy took.
Daphne soundlessly claps her hands as her offer to help is accepted. "Oh goody!" she chirps. She pops out of existence......and then pops back a few minutes later. "Go that way," she directs, pointing down a trail.
For the rest of the day, the party follows various paths, as directed by Daphne. While the paths do zigzag and occasionally double back on one another, Xenia can tell they are generally heading for the coast.
The sounds of the wood start up again, reaching its 'normal' crescendo once the group has put but a quarter mile between themselves and the witch's tree. Additionally, the 'feel' of animosity and of constantly being watched intrudes upon every member of the group. Talen is visibly pale as he trails along, constantly watching the sides of the path and grasping his sheath for a sword he doesn't have. Walking is much harder work than riding Max, and everyone is sweating in the sticky heat of the wood. The mosquitoes have found this new food source as well, and attack with abandon.
By nightfall, everyone is ready for a nap as a small clearing becomes visible. Roll Spot DC 13 to find and avoid the small bloodsucking vines.
Daphne is suitably sympathetic for a being who has forgotten what physical discomfort is like. "You're getting close," she encourages. "About a day and a half to go."
Xenia d20+8=22 Friday October 24th, 2003 12:41:04 PM
Xenia spends the rest of the day in thoughtful melancholy. Life is just not what you might expect. Or maybe it's just too much of what you might expect and not enough of what you might want.
Daphne, though sweet and very well meaning, doesn't seem to have the spark that the half-elven girl had imagined she might have. All things, perhaps are better in imagination than they are in real life. The problem is, what do you do about it?
And all of her new friends have turned out to be killers. Well, maybe some more than others. And she's gone along with it so doesn't that make her a killer too? What's more, as before she couldn't imagine her father ever having done something so horrible as to take someone's life. Now, knowing what she knows of the business he's in, she can't help but think that he has. Or, at least associated with many others who at one time or another have. The thought weighs her down both physically as well as emotionally, and finally, she drifts to the side of the Paladin of Domi.
"Florin, how do you deal with having to kill people? I mean, everyone must have someone they love, or someone who depends on them. Everyone must be doing some good to some other person in the world. How do you know you're not taking someone's dad or someone's sister or someone's friend? How do you know when killing someone is justified? And, how do you know that you're not, well ... that you're not liking it too much? How do you know that you're not evil yourself?"
[[ Insert Conversation? ]]
After a while, the forest gets rougher. In a way, it's good. The sweat and hard work moves the blood in her body, clearing her senses and taking her mind off of more existential matters. When they finally decide to break and make camp, Xenia is of a much more positive frame of mind. The cast of her face is stoic, the look in her eye, determined.
She points out a large patch of ground clear of blood sucking vines and sets her things down in with confidence in it.
Lastly, before settling in for the night, she finds a quiet moment with Tionel. "I'm sorry about crying all over you back at the tree, Tionel," she says. "I, I think you're cute. I like you. You're noble and caring and I don't know what more a girl could want. I know that can be kind of a weird thing, and I don't want it to be. Cause, more important than me liking you and all, is having you as a friend. I mean, if you like me back, that's great. But if I weird you out, you tell me, cause your friendship's more important. 'K? Friends?" And she takes her glove off and holds out her hand.
[[ Spot 22 ]]
Bralin d20+4=21 Friday October 24th, 2003 2:34:20 PM
The dwarf quickly remembers why he didn't like this forest.
He walks with the others, scanning the wood and forcing himself not to grab his axe and just start chopping.
Bralin is silent and dark-faced all day, and listening to the squeamish elf whine about killing people doesn't help his mood. He thanks the stones that its Florin who has to deal with her juvenile mewlings, and not himself.
He also spots the plants, and picks a safe spot to sleep.
Florin d20+1=19 Friday October 24th, 2003 2:47:47 PM
Florin moves along with the others and blinks abit when Xania falls back beside him, for a moment he is even alittle nervous but then he remembers himself and speaks to her gently, "I know what you mean Xania, if they attacked and left us no choice then what we did we had to do. The temple I grewup in also has some orphans in it and I and the others try to help them also. I can't justify the life I took back there in the tree beyond I had to but if it was wrong then Domi will punish me or forgive me in time, I also don't think Domi would of allowed me to strike down a innocent." Florin's mind travels back to his own anger at the tree and his thoughts and sighs abit, "We all have are worries and problems, I'll pray on this matter and see what comes about." Florin smiles to Xania even knows his face still is clouded by his memories.
After a long walk Florin enters the clearing with the others and decides to move over by the area Xania spoke of, looking for blood vines before sitting down and pulling out his canon (holy book, kindo l ike a bible just incase people happen not to know) and begins looking at it, reading abit before going to sleep himself.
[Spot:19, Florin will light his lantern if he needs to read the book.]
Tionel d8=8 d20+6=20 Friday October 24th, 2003 4:29:44 PM
Tionel gives the soldier some help by curing his wounds with a cure light wounds spell. (13 hp back) "There you go, Talen. Don't you mind the fact that we had to fight. I understand how being a mercenary is. You often have to join the side of a group you don't necessarily like." Tionel offers to play some cards with the guy and anyone else who would like to that night as well, as a good way to pass time. When Xenia comes on over and speaks with all those halting emotions, Tionel simply smiles and gives her a firm handshake. "Of course, my beautiful lady. And if you'd like to talk about anything or have any questions, feel free." It's always a pleasure to have a pretty girl as company, he thinks to himself. He spots some of the bloodsucking vines and helps everyone get settled without being near the vicious plants, and while doing so has a chat with Gordo and Syr. He thanks both for rushing inside, heedless of the danger, to help him out. "I know it was something of a risk to go in by myself, but at least that way we didn't harm anyone needlessly, you know? Anyways, that was a pretty good fight. I'm glad that it wasn't too difficult, and that you were all there to help me." He tips his hat.
Bog Friday October 24th, 2003 5:58:27 PM
Bog stops sometime during the walk and frowns, "Ah lost mah fuj, Doshdaggity doggit! Dropped it win da fite stahted."
Bog sighs and starts considering something. "Ti'nel...youz tokin bot som red stuf inavile dat the jack card guy stol', raht?Hmmmmmmm.... hey! member wen Ah saw him wen we garded da wine? Dere he took 'zactly one vile o' dat good purple wine. An now he takes dis vile o' red. I wonder wot he's mixin or if dis is jes some bazarre scavinger hunt n' thins."
Bog thinks some more "Ah wonder how old Drew's doin. Poor guy. Zeenya, Ah don' lahk killin peepel at oll bot wit guyz lahk da Jack stealin' peepel lahk Drew, I'd gladly kill em to mek em stop!"
Gordo (ADM Justin) Friday October 24th, 2003 6:35:05 PM
Gordo smiles when thanked for helping and claps the Tionel on the shoulder, "Your welcome friend. We got in alot faster after having the guard shoulder into the room."
Gordo settles down for the night and relaxation after the blood sucking vines are pointed out.
Xenia Friday October 24th, 2003 6:41:40 PM
Xenia considers Bog's words from a moment. A quiet smile turns the corners of her mouth as it hits her that she now understands him without trying.
"Thanks, Bog," she says to the grimy elf. "The more I think about it, the more I think it's like Florin says. When the day is done, you just gotta trust your own feelings about what's good and what's not. And, innocent people get hurt, and that's not good. But innocent people get hurt every day, and you gotta trust that by doing what your doing more people will wind up not getting hurt when you're done."
"'S kinda hard, though, you know," she says to the elf. "Say, who's Drew?"
Angus d20+4=10 d20+7=19 Saturday October 25th, 2003 12:44:56 AM
Since life has gotten less violent and more tedious with the hard hot truding through the less than frienly forest, Angus attempts to talk endlessly to all.
First with Bog. " Very nice magic back there, that ghoul touch was excellent. Where did you get your training? Was it in the Floating City or at some Magic User guild? Do you know about this Jack of Diamonds Character?
When Daphne reappears. " Thank you Daphne for your guidence through these difficult woods. Will you stay with us tonight? I will give you a personal flute performance in your honor.
Angus leaves Xenia to Florin since he only seems to want to deal with happy female emotions.
For Bralin. "Please find me a big flat rock to sleep on tonight so no vines will take my blood again.
Upon stopping Angus quickly scans the area for sucking vines (spot 10) and takes out his flute to begin warming up. Angus give a stirring performance ans everyone gets ready for the evening.
After the performance Angus apologizes to Talen about the magic missle. "No hard feelings and offers his hand." Off handedly Angus askes Talen. "How well do witches of the coven pay?"
Before beding down ANgus attempt to corner Syr to discuss the Jack of Diamonds. "Syr you mentioned that you had knowledge of the Jack of Diamonds Character. The whole idea of poping in and out and knowing what to take has me somewhat unnerved. Do you know of something going on?"
As Angus lays down to sleep he calls out to Tionel. "Tionel thanks for leading the charge."
Gordo (Carl ,back from holiday and full of posting) Sunday October 26th, 2003 5:47:37 PM
(OOC: Sorry for the 2nd Gordo post, but I've been missing posting too much not to pop one in!)
During the long day's march Gordo makes sure he finds time to have a few words with the troubled young half elf.
"Lass" he says quietly and with a warm, if somewhat rueful smile "don't feel so bad. Seeing a life lost is a hard thing, and being part of that loss, well, that's harder still. You should be glad that it hurts. When it don't, that's when you should worry.
Listen, each of us is our own person, and has seen our own sights. Bralin is battle-hardened, and has seen no small share of death, I'll wager. Bog has lived his life in the Undercity, where survival is the best you can hope for, and death an everyday thing. Tionel- well, I reckon you prob'ly know him better'n me, eh lass?" He gives herv a nudge and a friendly wink. "I'm sure the others have all seen no shortage of killing too.
But this is a hard Wold, lass. If you walk the path of the adventurer you'll see plenty more, and worse besides. The important thing is what you want to be.
Now me, well, Domi and me have this understanding, see? If I can possibly avoid it I'll take no life (OOC: all damage Gordo inflicts is subdual, unless otherwise stated). I'll bear no weapon save my own two fists. And if I show true Courage, then maybe Domi will bless me, and give me some of his strength.
But that's just me, an' my choice. I'd not expect another to live by my code. If Bralin or Florin strike to kill, then that's their code, and I'll not begrudge 'em that. If they fight a foe that wishes them dead, and is doin' evil, then that makes 'em right in my book. It may be a very thin book, with short words, big letters and lots of brightly colored pictures" (he winks again) "but it's served me true so far."
He sighs, then says "Listen lass, what I'm trying to say in my wandering sort of way, is that if you're going to live this life, you're going to need to decide how you live it. What are your rules? What do you think is the right way for you to act? When you find a code that fits, then you stick to it like glue, and it'll see you right or it'll see you dead. That's the long and short of it! Don't matter if it don't come quick, or come easy. It'll come, in time, and you'll know when it's right."
Some time later he overhears Bog, and his mention of Drew.
"Hey, woah there son; are you sayin' that Jack-in-the-box who popped up back there is one of the muckscrubbers who made off with old Drew? Them there Jack folks?"
He explains to the party members who didn't know him "Drew was one of Mama Flaust's orphans. Big as a house he was, and fierce with it when crossed. Orc blood, see. But he was the truest servant o' Domi I ever met, no offense intended Florin, old son, and he was a true friend ta boot. Syr, if them Jacks are the one's who took him, then we've gotta find 'em! I'll merrily pound their jingly noggins till they hand him over. No pointy-hatted popinjay kidnaps my mate Drew while I have anything to say about it!"
(OOC: Thanks for taking care of Gordo Justin, much appreciated!)
Xenia Sunday October 26th, 2003 8:05:26 PM
Alexandria Merryman Next lies awake on the ground. Tionel's blanket, on extended borrow, lies loosely over the top of her. It's a bit warm for a blanket, but it makes her feel snug and it smells like him. (At least she imagines it smells like him.)
She looks up into the dark night canopy, and thinks about all the things that have happened in the past few days that have lead up to this very moment and this very spot in the middle of the Crying Woods. Seems to her like so much longer than a few days. She's not really sure how to describe it, but she feels older somehow. As random and chaotic and sticky and grody and horrible as this whole experience has been, she feels like she's come out the better for all of it. If nothing else, she seems to have gotten herself hooked up with some pretty decent guys. She thinks of each of them in turn and smiles. Yeah. A pretty decent bunch of guys.
She thinks she understands now. Maybe this is what her Dad had been talking about. More valuable than gold, he had said. She turns on her side and pulls the blanket up under her chin. Maybe this is why you have to leave home.
Syr Monday October 27th, 2003 12:15:03 AM
Syr overhears Xenia's question to Florin and sighs. Thinking to himself, he recalls the time when he was so naive.
Addressing Talen, "One of my best friends and I fought before we were mates. He also picked the wrong side of the fight. Drew was a half-orc who ambushed us. After the fight he saw the light of Domi and we became close after that. I wonder what he is doing now?" With a sympathetic pat on the back, "We understand that you were just doing your job. However, where are your employers now... "
The elf flicks his dark pony tail and smiles at Tionel's thank you, "It's okay, I always prefer the direct approach myself. Just wait for everyone else next time." Turning to Angus, he shakes his head regretfully, "I have no idea what the Jack is doing. All I know is that he is a powerful member of an organization that is called the Lords of the Diamond. No one has ever been able to explain their goals or rules to me. It's an elite organization that many want to get into..." His voice trails off unsure of itself. With a sly grin at the elf, "Given the courage he showed in the last battle, I think Tionel could be our Knight of Hearts."
Another Day in the Woods (DM MikeK) Monday October 27th, 2003 8:29:48 AM
Talen passes on playing cards, apparently content with watching the unconscious Luna and staying as far on the periphery of the group as possible.
"They hired five of us for 50 gp a week," he responds quietly to Angus' query. Then, he snorts, and adds in a low voice, "didn't mention this place though." Talen shuts up, preoccupied with his own thoughts.
Daphne stays for the night, clapping delightedly at Angus' song and chatting amiably with whoever's on watch. This makes the watch more interesting, but does lessen its effectiveness. Its hard to hear anything 'out there' with a beautiful woman whispering in your ear, even if she is dead.
The night routine is the same. The forest noises gradually change over to the nighttime creatures. Eyes appear and disappear on the edges of the campsite, but never come close enough to identify. The 'feel' of the forest subsides, waiting for the dawn before resuming its endless oppression.
Fortunately, the night passes without incident, and the group is on its way again the next morning. As before, Daphne gradually leads them to the coast.
It is mid-afternoon when the girl in Talen's arms begins to stir. The former guard softly calls to the rest of the group and stops, setting her on the ground. Her eyes flutter open and she starts, scurrying backwards on hands and feet until she's backed up to a tree. "Who? Where? What?"
This is a really confused young girl (about 12-13-ish).
Xenia d20+1=19 Monday October 27th, 2003 11:53:15 AM
Xenia wake up for the final watch of the night in a much better frame of mind than she was in when she went to sleep. She spends a lot of the time talking with Daphne. (Not doing her job, yeah. But nothing happened, right?) Very interesting what happens to fashions when you're dead.
She gives each member of the party a cheery "G'Morning" as he rises from slumber.
The going's as rough as it was the day before as they set out again for the coast. This time, however, the half-elf is in good enough a mood to be annoyed by it. So, when Talen stops and calls them over, she's ready for a break. It's the girl, and she looks scared.
"Hey, Punkin'. My name's Xenia. What's yours?" she says wiping sweat out of her eyes and pulling a loose strand of red hair back up behind her ear. She kneels on the ground a few paces from the frightened girl with her hands on her thighs and smiles. "We're the rescue squad, and we're here to take you home."
[[ Straight Charism check 19 ]]
Florin Monday October 27th, 2003 2:30:49 PM
Florin stands his watch when he is wokeup and does talk to Daphne, finally givingup on his job and just speaking to Daphne though after he reliazes that the ghost was going to make watch hard. He isn't annoyed though and actually talks nice and enjoys the company.
In the morning Florin smiles, glad to see Xania in a better mood and he quickly packs his stuff up and heads out with the others. He stays to himself most of this morning and seems to be thinking over things to himself of the past few days. Only when the guard speaksup about the girl does Florin turn to look, seeing the girl awake he looks to Bralin, "Looks like she is finally awake, now to calm her down and keep going. I'm ready to be away of this jungle."
[If Daphne is around Florin will try to get her away from the group long enough that the group can calm down the girl. Telling Bralin that they should tell her of Daphne after she is calmed.]
(OOC: Welcome back Carl! Talk to you when you come on AIM :) )
Gordo Monday October 27th, 2003 4:14:28 PM
The big man keeps well back when the girl wakes and panics. The last thing she needs is to be approached by a large, bald, hairy great bear of a man who (it must be said) is now in sore need of a bath.
He sits, his back against a tree, and yawns. His eyes close, and he looks as if he might have gone to sleep.
Bralin Monday October 27th, 2003 4:48:18 PM
The dwarf gets what sleep he can and then endures the watch with the chatty ghost. His answers are short, to the point of being rude.
The day march is again spent anxiously scanning these infernal woods, searching for a foe.
Like Gordo, when the girl wakes he backs out sight, for very similiar reasons. "Mayhap Xenia should continue the ministrations," he answers Florin, "I long to be away as well."
Angus d20+7=20 d20+4=6 Monday October 27th, 2003 5:30:48 PM
Angus is glad for the stop and to see that Luna has awoken. Angus lets Xenia administer to Luna but watches and plays his flute to lighten the mood (20). The perfomance is grand but not long as Angus is also tired from the evil forest march.
Angus watches Xenia's progress and will only offer to help is Luna's need seems great. Its seems like female bonding is in order. (Cha check of 6 -not good)
For once Angus does not talk much. The hard walking seems to have taken alot out of him. Angus is obviously not built for this.
Away from the women Angus mentioned. "Normally when I play for my supper I get at least a meal, bath, and a bed and often more. Now I get to look forward to a pillow of a rock. Where is Max when you need him?"
Bog Monday October 27th, 2003 6:12:03 PM
Bog sighs, but is excited that Gordo has understood, "Das' wot Ah bean trine ta TELL ya! Tuldya dat daze ago n' winn it hopppind! Da Jack foncy-ponts dis'peerd wit Drew 'ND a vile fulla da purple wine! Nd naow 'e coms n' teks vile o' red! 'e lef' dat stoopid card. Ah tore up da las' one. Ah hope da guy eezn't bein torured'r nuthin."
To Angus, "Ooooh Ah lernt mah mage-ik fr'm da tr'sh level. Ah fund a old guy dat had died n' started learnin thins from 'is books. Dat's win Ah started."
Tionel d20+9=23 Monday October 27th, 2003 8:40:27 PM
Tionel smiles at Gordo's fine speech. A truly fine fellow, that. I'll have to buy him a drink or two when we get back. "Er...Gordo, you're allowed to drink by your order, right?"
Tionel mulls over some things while they travel. He smiles and shakes his head at the comment about the knight of hearts, but...kinda likes it. For a second he imagines himself dressed in full armor and parading around...As the girl comes to, and Bog goes on about the Jack of Diamonds, he replies to Bog, "You know, you've got something there. Jack seems to be interested in some magical concoctions, and perhaps together...I wonder what the most potent wine and a strange ghost-human affecting potion have in common?" He leads Daphne off to the side and softly queries her, "Daphne, did you notice what effect the potion had on you and the other ghosts, or on the girl when you watched? I hate to ask...and I know it's probably bad, but it might be important. It might explain why these guys ghostnapped you. Or do you know about these Lords of the Diamonds? I'd imagine besides Jack there has to be a Queen, and a King..." Tionel wanders by Xenia and the girl shortly after he finds out from Daphne. He wonders if Xenia knows that the girl is no innocent little waif, but a hard-bitten rough-raised orphan of the sewers.
Syr Tuesday October 28th, 2003 1:54:34 AM
Syr talks to Angus during their watch with occasional comments to Daphne. "I wonder when they will get here? I've never ridden a turle before, what's it like?"
As Luna awakens, he sees if she needs water or anything else and steadies her while she stands. "You've been out for some time. Do you recall how you got here?"
Luna's Up (DM MikeK) Tuesday October 28th, 2003 10:02:34 AM
Daphne hovers along beside Tionel on the trail, considering his question. "The red stuff did something," she replies. "I was in the Ghost, when two old ladies walked up to me and splashed me with it. It felt like I was being pulled out of myself and toward...someplace else. Almost like getting stretched. While that was happening, they put the box around me, and suddenly I was back, but couldn't get out. They carried me back here."
She looks at the waking Luna, backing away so as not to further scare the child. "Two of the guards brought her into the tree in a sack," Daphne continues in a hard voice. "She was crying and screaming and twisting and very scared. They kept her in that cell, and brought her out to place a drop of the red stuff on her head. Then, they'd watch to see what happened. The girl lost consciousness every time."
She shakes her head in regards to the question about the Lord of the Diamonds. "I don't know more than anyone else," she says. "Some kind of secret organization among the rich folk."
Luna quickly decides Xenia is a Nice Lady and clings to her while looking around. She very quickly recovers her composure. Bog will see abundant signs that this girl is a trash level resident. She immediately falls into the survival mode common to all Trash Level folk. Her eyes miss nothing as she assesses where she is and who she's with. As this ability is also common among adventurers, the rest of the group will only realize it's a bit peculiar in a 12 year old with a Sense Motive DC20.
"My name is Luna," she says to Xenia. "Are we going back to the city?"
Luna slowly rolls out her story, such as it is. She was going to meet some friends, when she got jumped by two men. The knocked her out. When she came to, she was in a sack. Then, she was in the tree, and the "mean hags tortured me with some red juice."
Xenia Tuesday October 28th, 2003 10:31:13 AM
Xenia smiles and hunkers down with the girl. "We're going back on a turtle," she says in reply. "Your friends Toenail and Smeel asked us to come find you. You do want to go back, don't you? We'll take you wherever you want to go, sweetheart. Won't we guys," she says, her tone challenging anyone to say different.
Then she sets about making introductions all around. "This is Syr, and that's Tionel." (I like him, she whispers to the girl.) "And over there, that's Bralin, and Gordo, and Florin, and Angus. And over there's Bog. That's Daphne," she says pointing to the ghost. She was captured the same as you. And, um, that over there is Talen. He was one of your guards, but we kind of pacified him and he's pretty much ok now."
Gordo Tuesday October 28th, 2003 2:58:33 PM
The big man, sat leaning against a tree, pops open one eye and grins at Tionel. "I'm in no order that I know of, son. I'm just a wanderer, following Domi's path. So there's no-one but me that tells me not to drink! Seems to me I'm closer to Domi that way than when my mind is mixed and fuddled by ale. Why do you ask, lad?"
To Bog he says "Like I say son, no gang of jangly-headed loons kidnaps Drew while I'm about. When we get back to the city I'm going to have me some words with those boys. If I can find 'em, that is.
As the girl begins to tell her tale the big man looks a little sad. Such cruelty towards one so young is truly a crime against nature. His face brightens again at Xenia's suggestion. "Aye, we're at yer service, wee lass!" he grins, opening his other eye. You need a bite to eat, a drink or a piggy back, you just up and ask!"
Florin Tuesday October 28th, 2003 3:57:31 PM
Florin's anger hints again as the girl's story brings back old memories and he speaks mainly to himself but outloud none the less, "I will speak to the temple of Domi of this matter. I can als inquire around abit since my err x-father is a noble." Florin looks to the girl and speaks to her gently, "You have my word and my pledge on Domi's name who I serve that I will inquire on this matter. You may also speak to my teacher and the head priests of Domi temple, I'm sure they will allow you to if I ask."
Florin turns now and goes off into his own thoughts while waiting for the group to move on, wondering if his father had anything to do with this or even knows anything. The again did he want to know or even ask, he could inquire with his sister who was a priestess of Flower and see what she says since their father still liked his sister.
Bralin Tuesday October 28th, 2003 4:08:44 PM
Bralin continues to wait. As everyone else is busy falling over themselves in pledges of help, he doesn't see any reason to add to the discussion.
Angus d20+7=26 d20+5=19 Tuesday October 28th, 2003 5:15:28 PM
Angus answers Syr Turtle question. "I hope you can hang on. I was not overly thrilled, being niether strong or dextrous I chose to ride in the trailing boat with Brailin. From what I have seen of you the last few day, you will Love it. I must say is is the better option over swimming."
Angus walks over to Xenia and Luna. "If either of you two women have a request I am up for it?" If Angus is given a request, he is overjoyed and puts in one of his best perfomances to date. "I love a receptive audiuance!"
Angus attempts to converse with Bog? " Once we are in the city I will attempt to find out some information about the jack of Diamonds. I did not realize that you were from the Floating City, maybe we can find some information out together?"
Angus is intruiged by Daphne. "Daphne I hate to ask, and I apologize in advance, but how does one so beautiful and fun loving become a ghost?" (Dipolmancy check 19 for tact as much as possible)
Bog Tuesday October 28th, 2003 6:54:57 PM
"Hmmmmm....perple stuff n' red stuff....perple stuff n' red stuff." Bog sits on a stump and scratches his head.
"Woll, da perple stuff made som bruts cry n' made some dance n' see perty colors and it made me see da paths of magic itself wich I wokked seein da great expns's o' majik 'orund me...den ah woke on da floor. So if perple stuff breengs da spirits o' folks in reel wold to other space in da mind...and da red stuff breengs ghosties into a differnt ples da the spirit wold lak physykall stuff....ummmmm....wen ya combine does effects ah wonder wot happins... er else wen ya use bot' o dose effects ah wonder wot yer tryin ta do n' thins."
Bog sees the scares Luna and goes over to her. "'ey lass" he says with a smile, "Ah herd da pertiest birdy da udder dey. Yoo lak birdies? It went: " Bog casts ghost sound and sounds like a pretty bird singing. He flaps his arms around to add to the effect.
Tionel Wednesday October 29th, 2003 12:29:40 AM
"Well, Gordo, I was wondering because after this is all said and done i wouldn't mind drying my throat with a drink or two, and I was hoping you would join me," he smiles. "Along with Angus, Bog, Florin, the rest of us... We all did a great job here. The first round will be on Happy, of course." Tionel doesn't bother to enlist any of his relatives to help either...mainly because he doesn't know any, and trusts that the orphan will be quickly overcome by so many offers. Instead, he offers the girl a waterskin and some dried fruit slices in case she's hungry. He claps to Angus's performance and smiles. "Delightful, simply wonderful. You're a better musician than I, Angus...er.. I quite forgot your last name, friend." Pondering Bog's words, he can't help but take a sip from his wineskin. "You would know far more about alchemy than I, Bog. So, do you think this Jack will be looking for more substances of magical types? Or does he have everything ready? And what would he use them for?" He ponders... "Too bad there was no more left of the liquid so that we could find out, eh?" While the rest of the group rests from their excursions and Bog entertains the girl, Tionel takes a seat against a boulder a few trees away and writes in his diary all that has occurred. He ponders the beetle and the strange flower it consumed, and can't help but wonder if they were related the red substance... (Knowledge: Nature roll, or what to figure out?0
Syr Wednesday October 29th, 2003 2:20:38 AM
Whispering to Bralin, "I know she says she was 'tortured' but from what I hear, all she did was pass out. Think she's confusing drugged with tortured? Maybe the red stuff gave her bad dreams? I wonder what it was..."
The elf quickly raises his eyebrows when Florin mentions his father and comments briefly, "Interesting."
Coming Home - Day 2 (DM MikeK) Wednesday October 29th, 2003 9:40:50 AM
Luna looks a bit confused at the "Toenail and Smeel" reference by Xenia, but is able to put that aside at the mention of leaving the woods. She beams happily at the suggestion. She is also very good at playing the crowd, asking Angus for another song, smiling playfully at Gordo's suggestion for a piggie back ride, and giggling happily at Bog's bird sounds. She is not all that uncomfortable around any of the party members, but does take pains to avoid Talen.
Daphne's face falls at Angus' question. "I was a tavern girl," she says softly. "There was a fire...." Daphne plainly doesn't want to get into the details.
Tionel doesn't have the slightest idea what the red substance is, and therefore can't figure out a relation to the flowers and beetle.
After this short interlude, the group continues making its way to the coast. Luna keeps close to Xenia and far from Talen. The former guard, on his part, does his best to stay close to Bog, and far from the girl. Given the size of the group, the two do a remarkable job on staying away from each other. Luna works the crowd, Talen stays silent.
The party makes good time but then notices a sudden lack of animal noise in the woods around them. It is almost as if there is nothing living in this area except plant life. Daylight is fading fairly quickly and they see up ahead on the left is a nice small partially open camp site, and the right side of the path is blocked by a massive mound of vegetation.
Xenia d20+8=17 d20+8=10 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 11:24:57 AM
Despite the heat and the looming oppression of the forest, Xenia is, all in all, pretty happy to be walking through the woods with Luna. She's never had any siblings and it's kind of nice to imagine that Luna is, like, a younger sister. Especially because she's, well, kind of popular.
At one point she even dances along to the music Angus provides. Some skips and twirls, a couple of cartwheels, and even this snaky little thing with her hips. It's fun and she's all smiles.
She's not real sure what's going on with the different liquids that everyone's talking about. And the guy Drew, and the Jack of Diamonds. But she'll hang some more and find out.
When they come upon the clearing in the fading light of dusk, Xenia, untrained in wood craft as she is, still senses danger in the "too quiet factor" that must be the same, she figures, no matter where you're at. She stops and kneels next to Luna. With a protective arm across her shoulders, she puts a finger to her lips for quiet.
[[ Listen 17 / Spot 10 ]]
Florin (Detecting Evil) d20+2=6 d20+1=6 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 11:53:28 AM
Florin looks at the clearing and tries to notice any vines or anything but fails in that so he simply pulls the silver holy sybol he wears of Domi from under his tunic and armor and whispers a small prayer to Domi (useing his detect evil ability.) Florin doesn't like the silence and frowns at this, he looks to Bralin and comments to him, "What do you think Bralin? something doesn't seem right I think but maybe I'm just tired."
[Listen:6 Spot:6]
Angus d20+4=22 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 1:26:06 PM
Angus stops with the group and is very concerned about the forest, since it nearly ate him once. Angus surveys the area in front (spot 22) especially the lump of vegitation.
Angus calls to Xenia "Watch Luna carefully, as you remember how the forest reacted our first trip. No running off into the woods."
Angus asks Tionel. "You know the forest best....that big lump of vegitation is not, I hope the forest eating the previous campers?"
When Angus get the opportunity he will apologize to Daphne for the rude question and ask her for a flute request.
Bralin d20+4=7 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 1:59:58 PM
At Syr's question, Bralin can only shrug. Short lived humans are hard enough to predict. Their children are clearly impossible.
The dwarf spends another day stoically marching with the group, fervently wishing to be out of these woods.
The noise stops. Thats a change. Change is bad. Bralin immediately draws his axe, getting a good grip on the comforting haft. He scans the clearing and the pile of vegetation. (Spot 7)
He gives a curt nod in answer to Florin. "I like this not," he rumbles.
Gordo Wednesday October 29th, 2003 2:24:10 PM
The big man comes to a halt with the others. He peers at the vegetation with some interest but hands back to let the xpert woodsmen do their thing.
Syrdeth d20+8=21 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 3:08:35 PM
Syr spends the day closer to Talen trying to draw him out with questions about his family and life. His questions tend to focus specifically with the mercenary aspects of his life.
Syr senses the others unease and moves to the front of the group attempting to spot a threat (Spot 21).
The elf flexes his chest and winces, he looks down at the partially healed ribcage and begins to regret not using the healing wand that Bralin offered. Thinking of the potion stashed away in his glove he shrugs to himself and prepares for any foes.
Tionel d20+6=9 d20+8=9 d20+10=19 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 7:19:59 PM
"Let me see..." (Spot 9, Know: Nature 9, Survival 19). Probably: "Beats me..." (bad day for posting for me...post more tomorrow)
Bog d20+3=5 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 9:29:58 PM
During the walk, Bog pleasantly hangs out with Talen making small talk and keeping an eye on the woods. The only two specific things he asks:
"Say, Tal'n fren', war yoo from. Ah'm frem da trash lev'l." (and proceeds to tell Talen a little about it.)
The other thing: "Bah da waye, Talen, yoo din' know dat foncy-pants guy in da robe dat popped in and lef' da card n' poppt out didya? Did da witches ev'r deal wit him befor as fren' er enemmemy?"
At the stop in the path. Bog quirks his lip, then decalres "Ah know wot ta do! 'Av yer wep'ns hondy!" Bog then steps a little to the side so his view of the big pile of vegetation is not blocked. Then he picks up a large stone or small log or even a gold piece and hurls it full force at the mound. It misses wildly. "Dagonnit. Woll you git the ahdeea. Somwon wit' bett'r aim wanna try?"
Xenia d20+7=20 d4=3 Wednesday October 29th, 2003 10:37:23 PM
Xenia gives Bog an odd sort of look, and then shrugs. She draws her sling from her belt and takes out a bullet.
She gives Luna a reassuring squeeze of the arm and a smile, looks at Bog again with one of those you-sure-this-is-what-you-want kind of looks, and then does the sling action in the direction of the large mound of vegetation.
[[ Hit AC20 / Dmg 3 (Tell me again, what's the point of damage here?) ]] [[ Sorry for the non-RP double post. Nix this if you like. But Bog was the last one on the roster with nobody to respond to him. ]]
Plant fight (DM MikeK) Thursday October 30th, 2003 10:29:33 AM
Talen's answers to both Syr and Bog are short. Either he's not real talkative, or he's unwilling to fully trust this company, or both. He is from the Fence Level, and sort of fell into mercenary work when he needed money and someone else needed a guard. The fight at the tree was apparently his first experience against seasoned adventurers, the result of which has put a bit of a damper on the man's enthusiasm for his current trade. He has never before seen the Jack of Diamonds guy.
Angus is mostly convinced that pile of vegetation isn't what it appears to be. Tionel and Bog are no help, but Xenia's stone clears up the picture nicely.
Upon the stone's impact, two long tendrils of tightly wound plant life extend from the mass toward the group. A huge maw opens, filled with sticklike teeth. And the whole thing also starts moving purposefully toward everyone.
The mass is really big, a good 15'x15' square. It is 30' from the party, and advancing.
Luna pales by several shades, and hurriedly backs up, putting as many people between her and the thing as she possibly can. Talen, weaponless, is right there with her.
Florin Thursday October 30th, 2003 11:42:39 AM
Florin frowns at the new enemy and also quickly pulls his backpack off to start searching it, "I have some oil for my lantern, we can use it to help with this enemy. Someone have soemthing handy to light it though." Florin thinks and looks to Xania, "You have a missle weapon, fall back alittle with Luna, we don't want her accidently getting hurt."
Florin will spend this round and however long it takes to get the oil out and throw it at the living plant.
Xenia d20+7=14 d4=3 Thursday October 30th, 2003 11:43:24 AM WAH! The half-elven girl is not sure what she expected, but it sure wasn't this.
Xenia quickly dips into her pouch for another sling bullet and lets fly before retreating back to stand protectively before Luna.
[[ Hits AC 14 for 3 Dmg ]]
Angus Thursday October 30th, 2003 1:11:37 PM
Angus moves to the back of the group and stands in front of Luna. "Stay behind me. If it gets real rough I will grap you an escape and do not run too far the forest is not safe."
Angus calls to Talen " Can you use a sling? I will not be using mine. Time to earn your keep!"
Angus readies a spell and watches how the group prepares itself for vegatable battle II. Angus pulls out his sling (belt) and detaches one of his pouch on his belt (sling bullets) and drops them to the ground.
Angus will also attempt to determine the speed of the attacking vegatable to see if we can outrun it if necessary.
Tionel (AC 15 vs. the plantosaurus) d20+4=21 d20+4=15 d4+2=6 d4+2=3 d20-1=10 Thursday October 30th, 2003 1:46:24 PM
"Well, this is a fine how do you do!" Tionel (sacrificing warp wood) summons a dire badger right in front of the vegecannibal, and commands it, "Get that veggie thing!" He hopes the gigantic creature will eat the badger. Even so, he steps forward 5' so that it will attack him rather than another group member. (Badger: AC 16, claw attacks twice: AC 21 and AC 15, doing 6 and 3, and AC 10 on a bite miss.)
Bralin (ac17) Thursday October 30th, 2003 2:54:16 PM
Seeing Xenia effectively using her sling, Bralin quickly empties his front pouch. Three sling stones roll onto the ground.
Bending over, the dwarf waves his hand and mumbles an incantation.
"Use these," he instructs Xenia, as he steps over the now glowing stones toward the creature (5' step).
Magic Stone - +1 atk bonus, 1d6+1 damage.
Gordo d20+1=18 d8+7=10 Thursday October 30th, 2003 5:54:01 PM
The big man cracks his knuckles and grins. "Well this soggy looking critter looks like a candidate for a serious thumping! And if it comes over here that's just what it's going to get!"
He positions himself ahead of the rest of the party, ready to batter the creature if it threatens to get too close.
(Readied attack if the creature moves into range, hits AC 18 (power attack 5) for 10 HP)
Syr d20+6=20 d8+5=12 Friday October 31st, 2003 3:39:05 AM
Syr watches the plant thing come at the party and remains where he is but readies for an attack if it should come too close (Attack of opportunity AC 20 damage 12). "After the beating from Talen's buddies, I have no problem staying in the background this time."
Plant fight - rd1 (DM MikeK) d20+4=5 d20+4=24 d20+4=20 d2=1 d2=2 d20+10=28 d20+17=30 d10+7=16 Friday October 31st, 2003 10:35:30 AM
The celestial badger appears direclty in front of the thing and rips into it with one claw.
Tionel, Gordo, and Bralin step forward, while everyone else stays behind them.
The monster pauses just long enough to swallow the badger, and continues forward, its two tendrils lashing out toward the party.
There is a 5' gap between it and the three people in front. Anyone else wanting to attack must move to the sides.
Xenia (AC17) d20+8=26 d6+1=4 Friday October 31st, 2003 11:22:18 AM
Xenia's eyes cloud with worry as the Vegetable of Doom sweeps down on them consuming badgers as it comes.
"Luna, honey, if anything happens to us, follow Daphne," she says her concern hemorrhaging from her voice despite her best attempts to put up a good front. "She can help you get home."
Then she scoops up Bralin's three sling stones, and moves right for a clear line of shot. (Hopefully no more than 5'.) "Ahhhh ra-ra ra-ra ra-ra ra-ra ra-raaaah!" her little war cry rings out into the darkening forest as her sling whirls and then releases.
[[ Hit AC 26 / 4 Dmg ]]
Gordo d20+1=19 d8+7=14 Friday October 31st, 2003 12:16:51 PM
As the badger vanishes into the creature's maw Gordo raises an bushy red eyebrow. "Hoom, hungry critter, ain't he?"
With a step forward he unleashes a powerhouse of a blow at the vegetable monstrosity (AC 19 for 14HP, power attack 5)
"Take that, you shambling cabbage patch!" he roars.
Angus d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d20+4=23 Friday October 31st, 2003 1:06:44 PM
Angus lets loose with a magic missle spell and the creeping vegesaurous. Two missles slam into the vegesaurous (9 dam.) and damaged plants matter flys into the air.
Angus frenticly call to Luna and Talen. "Luna its ok just stay behind us!! Talen pick up the sling and have at the creature! It is time to help protect your own life!" Angus attempts to use as much of his ample personality to convince Talen that action againt the vegesaurous is needed immediately. (Charisma roll 23)
Last round Angus had dropped his sling and one of his pouches that contains 20 regular and 5 silver sling bullets.
Angus kicks the sling and pouch belt toward Talen and prepares for another spell as the vegesaurous advances
Florin d20+6=19 d20+3=22 Friday October 31st, 2003 2:48:04 PM
Florin moves to the side now, armed with the lantern oil and throws it at the plant creature as hard as he can trying to get the oil bottle to break.
[Don't know if I need a to hit but here it is. To hit:19, Str:22]
Tionel (AC 15 vs. the herbonivorous) d20+6=23 d20+6=17 d20+1=18 d4+4=6 d4+4=7 d6+2=8 Friday October 31st, 2003 3:00:38 PM
Tionel frowns and takes a five foot step back and out of the way of the people behind him. Then, he casts another summoning spell. Actually, this has now become his favorite trick. Though he feels bad for the badger, it doesn't really exist, only temporarily, he thinks to himself...and it died honorably. This time, he summons a powerful black bear behind the creature, and has it attack the vegemonstrousity. Hopefully the others can flank the creature next round. "Margie!" he names it, "Attack the plant!" (Bear's stats: AC 13, hp 19, 2 claws +6, 1 bite +1, attacks this round AC 23, AC 17, and AC 18, does 6 and 7 on the claws and 8 damage with the bite.)
Bralin (ac19, expertise 2, seal of whooping) d20+10=19 d10+8=12 Saturday November 1st, 2003 10:30:05 PM
Bralin activates a seal (Seal of whooping +4 atk and damage), and wades into the plant thing, swinging his axe.
Hit ac 19 for 12 hp damage.
Syr (AC 18, HP32) d20+8=15 d8+5=7 d20+15=33 Sunday November 2nd, 2003 6:35:32 AM
Not used to being around this much magic, Syr's mouth drops at the displays of Tionel and Angus attacking the mound. Only pausing for a moment to admire his friends' spellwork he moves to the left of the party.
Syr skirts to the side of the creature and unleashes a kick (AC 21, flanking? damage 7)
Echoing Angus' comments he addresses Talen loudly without taking his eyes from the creature, "Now is the time to amend past errors. Take arms and protect Luna. (Diplomacy check 33)"
Plant fight - rd2 (DM MikeK) d20+4=6 d20+10=30 d20+10=16 d10+7=17 d20+20=38 d20+6=9 d20+6=16 Monday November 3rd, 2003 11:17:20 AM
(Plant monster has AC 16)
Xenia's bullet twacks into the monster.
Gordo's blows make an extremely satisfying crunching sound, as green vegetable pieces splatter the monk.
Angus' missile rips into beast.
Florin launches a flask of oil, which lands on the creature, and breaks. Oil oozes into the plant stuff.
Tionel summons a bear, which appears behind the creature and rips at it furiously. (No flanking attacks on the plant)
Bralin rips a powerful blow with his axe.
Syr lands a good shot with his foot.
Talen picks up the sling and makes a very poor shot that sails off into the woods. "I'd be more help with a sword," he answers.
Luna stays well back.
The wounds caused by Bralin, Angus, and the bear begin to close over. Everyone can see the severed twigs and vines growing and reattaching themselves. The smooshed parts of the creature, caused by the attacks of Xenia, Gordo, and Syr, stay smooshed.
The great maw of the creature closes over Gordo, (crit threat missed, but still 17 hp damage) (grapple check vs 38 or get trapped in the maw.
A tendril lashes out at Syr, missing.
And the other tendril strikes at Bralin, also missing.
Xenia (AC17 / HP13/13) d20+8=20 d6+5=9 Monday November 3rd, 2003 11:57:30 AM
Xenia's breath comes deep and heavy, less from the exertion than the excitement. She spares a glace toward Luna. She looks like a tough little thing, but Xenia doesn't know if she could live with herself if anything happened to her. Her eyes return to the Compost Heap of Death, and the half-elven girl narrows her eyes as it tries to engulf Gordo in it's brambly clutches.
"Anyone have fire?" she shouts.
She hits a round disk affixed to the outside of her thigh and her sling glows bright as she loads another bullet and lets fly.
[[ Activate Seal of Whooping. +4 to Hit and Damage one Round. ]] [[ Hit with AC20 (includes penalty for firing into Melee) / d6+1+4=9 Damage ]]
Angus Monday November 3rd, 2003 2:33:54 PM
Angus kneels down and peels off his backpack and takes out his spare set of cloths and separates the pants and shirt. " Oh well, I needed to buy new cloths any ways." Angus then splashes a half of a flask of oil on each (pants and shirt).
Angus then goes to town with his flint on the oil soaked shirt. Angus exclaims excitedly while watching the Forest engulf Gordo. "Fire is coming...just keep that Vegasaurous away!"
Tionel (AC 15 vs. the plantosaurus) d20+6=11 d20+6=25 d4+4=8 d4+4=8 d20+1=5 d20+3=4 Monday November 3rd, 2003 3:13:20 PM
For no reason he can think of, Tionel yells, "Taste fire, scarecrow!, er, plantthing!" And casts his last 2nd level spell spontaneously, to summon a small fire elemental like he did the other day. This one is place directly above teh creature, so it doesn't interfere with anybody else attacking it. (Bear: AC 11@8 dam, AC 25@8 dam, AC 5.) (Flame Elemental: AC 15, attacks AC 4.) "Gordo! We're trying to help you!"
Bralin (ac19, expertise 2) d20+6=10 Monday November 3rd, 2003 3:32:35 PM
Bralin, unnerved by the sight of Gordo disappearing into the creature, misses badly.
hit ac 10
Gordo (AC 17, HP 16/33) d20+9=18 d20+1=8 Monday November 3rd, 2003 3:48:16 PM
"AAaaarrgghh!" roars the big man as the teeth rip at his flesh. He struggles wildly against the that slavering maw, but cannot break free. Seeing he is caught fast he determines to prove a costly meal. He swings a fist at the Herbaceous Border From Hell, but he is thrown off balance and he cannot get weight behind it (AC 8).
Florin Monday November 3rd, 2003 5:16:15 PM
Florin frowns when seeing Gordo being sucked into the plant creatures mouth and is reminded of a sucking in a noodle. He quickly moves foreward towards Gordo, "If nothing else I can try pulling you out Gordo, I don't think any of us want a cajun style Gordo."
Syr HP 32 AC 18 d20+8=27 d20+8=28 d20+8=24 3d8(1+5+4)+15=25 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 2:34:20 AM
The elf calls out to Angus, "Careful with that fire! That is our brother in it's ...mouth?"
Resoved to take the creature down before it can do much harm to Gordo he uses his feet for two quick kicks. (nice set of rolls, Attack 27,crit threat and crit confirm for 25 points of damage).
Plant fight - rd3 (DM MikeK) d20+4=21 d4=3 d20+6=14 d20+6=7 d20+20=25 2d6(6+3)=9 d20+20=33 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 10:36:36 AM
Xenia's bullet impacts the beast with a great "thwack".
Angus sets his spare clothes on fire.
The bear gets in one good rip.
A small fire elemental appears above the plant, but seems a bit disoriented. It can't hit the creature.
Bralin misses.
Gordo struggles to break free.
Florin moves forward, sticks his hands into the maw of the creature, and grabs Gordo. The paladin tries to pull the monk out.
Syr lands two very nice kicks, but not as nice as he expected.
(No criticals, no flanking)
Talen launches another sling bullet. It impacts solidly against the whatever.
Quite a bit of the creature is now nothing but plant puree, but it continues to attack.
A tendril swings at Syr, missing.
The other tendril swings at Bralin, also missing.
Gordo is grabbed by a myriad of small vines that try and pull him deeper into the beast's gullet. [Grapple check vs 25 to avoid getting pulled into the stomach. If pulled in the stomach, take 9 hp acid damage, + make Fort DC 20 or paralyzed. If Gordo is still moving, he can make a grapple check vs 33 To climb out of stomach or mouth, depending on where you are. Get +2 on grapple checks while in mouth due to Florin's aid]
Xenia (AC17 / HP13/13) d20+8=27 d4=1 d6+1=4 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 11:28:43 AM
"Gordo!" the half-elven girl shouts as tiny vines whip around the big monk and jerk him toward the darkness of it's waiting intesticles. "You're not taking him," she yells and sets her face in lines of concentration before loading another sling bullet. "Yeeeeaahhh," she cries as the last of Bralin's stones flies toward the Mulch Monster.
[[ Hit AC27 / Dmg 4 (d4 was mistake. Forgot I had one of Bralin's stones.) ]]
Angus d20+1=16 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 1:07:12 PM
Angus takes our his last flask of oil and tears a piece of his oil soaked pants into the mouth of the oil flask lights it from his burning shirt and throws the flask at the vegasaurous (roll 16 to hit). Angus yells "Burning oil flask incomming watch out!!!!!"
Angus turns to Luna " See if you can keep the fire going we may need it"
Angus runs to join the fray (to the left flank) taking out his daggar in anticipation of having to cut Gordo our of the Vegasaurous.
Tionel (AC 15 vs. the man-eating plant) d20+6=19 d20+6=12 d6+4=6 d6+4=8 d20+1=7 d20+3=16 d4=1 d4=1 d20+4=18 d6+1=4 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 1:08:50 PM
Tionel glances around to make sure the kid and the soldier are okay. It would suck if the soldier had run off with the girl during the battle, or something. If they are gone, he quickly heads back into the woods to look for them... if they aren't gone, then he joins in the fight. (Margey: AC 19 @ 6, AC 12 @ 8, Ac 7. I think Margey dissappears next round.) (Toast: AC 16 @ 1 + 1 burn damage) (Tionel, if the girl and soldier are okay: attacks with his staff, AC 18, doing 4 damage.)
Bralin (ac19, expertise 2) d20+6=23 d10+4=11 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 1:26:12 PM
Bralin just keeps swinging. With an overhand chop, he plants his axe deep into the vege critter. (hit ac 23 for 11 hp damage)
Gordo (HP 7/33) d20+9=16 d20+9=16 d20+6=23 d20+9=14 d20+1=18 d8+7=11 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 5:22:18 PM
"Aargh! This thing stinks!" bellows the big man as he feet vanish into the creature's mouth (Grapple 18, used Hero Point to reroll, 18). There follows a nasty hissing and muffled yelling as he is dunked unceremoniously into the creature's stomach acids.
He struggles wildly to get free (Fort 23, Grapple Grapple 14), but is held fast in the creature's innards. Well, he thinks to himself, if he is to die digested in the guts of an overgrown cabbage, the least he can do is give it a nasty case of indigestion. He slams at the interior of the rubbery vegetable stomach walls with all his might (AC 18, 11 HP power attack 5). It occurs to him as the fumes begin to overwhelm him that given his time again he might have chosen something a bit more inspirational than "Aargh! This thing stinks!" as his final words...
Florin d20+6=10 d20+3=9 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 5:55:30 PM
(OOC:Please ignore the dice rolls Mike. I changed my post.)
Florin frowns when he sees Gordo get sucked in farther and the sound of the hissing and calls out, "We have to get him out now. Someone get some healing ready also."
After yelling Florin quickly does his best to hold onto whatever part of Gordo he has or atleast keep his hand on him as he whispers a prayer to Domi quickly, "May Domi's stregnth be felt."
[Used lay on hands 6 points of damage healed to Gordo]
Syr d20+8=27 d20+8=12 d8+5=11 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 1:51:25 AM
The elf sees his hardest kicks do a small amount of damage and wonders what is keeping this plant moving. Rather than switch tactics he continues to kick at the limbs, hitting once. (attack 29, damage 11)
The elf watches helplessly as Gordo's feet disappear into the mouth. "Somebody throw a healing potion down it's gullet!"
Yelling at the beast and praying to Domi that he is heard through the twigs and leaves, "Gordo! do you have any more growth potions??"
Plant poi (DM MikeK) Wednesday November 5th, 2003 9:56:57 AM
Despite Florin's best efforts, Gordo is ripped from his grasp and disappears into the creature.
Gordo has enough time to regret his last words, and then the tendrils dragging him down droop and stop moving. He finds he can crawl out without much effort. Given his condition, that's probably a good thing.
The combined blows of stone, staff, axe, foot, claw, and fire have finished off the critter. Nothing really remains but a pulpy green burning mass. A Spot check DC 15 will notice a medium sized wooden chest in the midst of the remains.
Talen wordlessly hands the sling back to Angus.
Daphne and Luna are standing in the path, watching wide-eyed.
It's getting dark.
Gordo Wednesday November 5th, 2003 11:11:59 AM
With a sticky "Plop!" the big man squirms out of the creature's innards and collapses to the forest floor. "Stone the crows, I thought I was plant food there!" coughs the slime-covered Gordo, his body a mass of bruises and acid burns. "My thanks, friends, you saved me from a pretty sorry death!"
He grins weakly and levers himself upright, trying to locate a part of his body that doesn't hurt. He sniffs the air and grimaces. "And I thought that thing smelt bad on the outside!"
Xenia d20+8=17 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 11:48:36 AM
Xenia almost collapses with relief when a hand reaches out of the planty mass followed, soon enough, by the rest of Gordo.
"Come on Luna, Honey. Lets move up the trail. It's probably safer in the middle of all the guys. Framble, I forgot how nasty and dangerous this place was, Luna. Before we got to the tree you were in, we had this big bug. I named him. Called him 'Max.' (I feel kind of bad, because 'Max' stands for 'Maximally Ugly.')," she whispers. "Max pretty much protected us from the forest. He was a good bug."
"Hey guys. What's that box?"
[[ Spot 17 ]]
Tionel d20+6=8 d8+4=11 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 12:49:46 PM
Tionel steps forward chanting softly under his breath, glancing to make sure his gloves are on before he pats Grymash's shoulder. (Cure Light Wounds for 11 damage) "Well, you're okay, friend, that's all that matters. What do you mean, chest, Xenia?" Tionel peers at the mass, but sees nothing but vegetable matter. He glances at Xenia, then realizes that his last comment could be somewhat misinterpreted...he blushes slightly and looks back to the mass. (heh.)
Angus d20+4=15 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 1:16:34 PM
Angus helps Gordo out of the burnt, hacked and smashed remains of the vegasaurous. "Gordo you are alive! You are one tough man! Think of the stories you will be able to tell..."
Angus takes back the sling and pouch of bullets from Talen. "Thanks for helping kill this mad plant. Are you ok Talen, you seem distant?"
"Tionel I thought I saw something rectangular just behind where Gordo crawled out of" (Spot 15)
Angus repacks his small backpack actually happy that it is lighter after all the marching and fighting the group has done today. Angus calls out to the group. " I vote we patch up Gordo and anyone else injured and get out of this place. Anyone have any idea how far we are from the beach?"
Florin d20+2=10 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 2:11:18 PM
Florin smiles and sighs in relief, "Thank god your okay Gordo, other then alittle slimy."
Florin isn't able to see the chest himself but moves closer to get a better look since a couple people have pointed and said something of seeing something. He also looks to see if there is any chance of avoiding the fire and getting the chest out.
[Spot:10]
Xenia Wednesday November 5th, 2003 2:11:20 PM
"Right over there ... " Xenia says and then she sees Tionel's blush and suddenly "gets it."
"Some guys like that kind of thing," she says quietly to herself. But, at least he noticed.
Good thing her own blush doesn't show against her dark skin.
Bralin d20+4=5 d8+1=8 d8+1=5 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 3:32:31 PM
Completely oblivious to the interplay between Tionel and Xenia, and in fact totally missing the reference to a chest at all (Spot - nat 1), Bralin pulls out a wand and helps fix up Gordo.
(healed 13 hp)
Then, he sets about getting the goop off his axe. "Do we camp here, or move on?" he asks Florin.
Bog Wednesday November 5th, 2003 8:56:58 PM
Bog twiddles his fingers and stops, then pulls out a wand from his belt and points it at the thing. "Bajjer!"
Summoning a Celestial Badger next to the plant thing to attack it.
Syr d20+8=28 Thursday November 6th, 2003 4:28:04 AM
Syr helps to pull Gordo free once his face appears. Giving the big guy a pat on the back he helps clean him off, "I thought we lost you for a second."
Hearing Xenia he turns to where she is pointing. Leaving the monk, he moves to the corpse and tugs on the chest, trying to remove it. (Spot check not needed).
Syr hears Bralin's question and sides with Angus, "Let's push on. Our mobile veggie friend here did not make this his home so we have no guarantees that this is safe for a campsite. Anyone know har far we have left?"
Dead plants and discussions (DM MikeK) Thursday November 6th, 2003 10:37:09 AM
Bog realized the plant thing is dead. (Do you still want to Summon Animal?)
Talen gives Angus an ironic half grin. "I am still sort of a prisoner, here," he points out. "Its not something to talk about."
Syr pulls out the chest and Xenia easily opens it. It contains -- 350 cp 670 sp 130 gp 6 pp 6 gems (all the same) 4 flasks alchemist fire 3 smoke sticks 2 tangle foot bags and 1 glove
Daphne enters the discussions to say its another 6 hours or so to the coast.
Xenia d20+2=12 Thursday November 6th, 2003 11:59:30 AM
Xenia looks down into open chest of "good stuff." Her eyes shine with that special light that girls reserve for the special man in their life or for rich emporiums full of silky, sparkly, sensuous, new wares. Well, maybe just the emporiums.
"Gloves!" she cries. "Hey, where's the other one?" She paws a hand through the contents of the chest. She holds the glove in two fingers and examines it, shaking and flapping it to ensure that it's mate is not hiding in some mysterious nook or cranny. "Humph," she shrugs.
"Maybe someone can figure out this glove thing."
She picks one of the gems out of the pile and holds it up to the dying light. "Wonder what these are?"
[[ Appraise 12 ]]
Syr d20+8=14 Thursday November 6th, 2003 1:06:09 PM
Syr marvels at the way Xenia easily opens the chest, "Someday you'll have to teach me a thing or two about locks." His grin widens as the trove is revealed to all.
"Xenia, you know the last time I found one lone glove it was this purple one. It stores 1 item within easy reach." With a flick of of wrist, he makes a pink potion appear in it and then quickly disappear. "Maybe it's the same thing?"
Looking back at the dwarf, "So now we have two chests? Do you think this stuff will fit into the one we are carrying from the witches?" (I think it was Bralin and Syr carrying the chest) Syr eyes both chests (Spot 14). If the contents fit into one, he combines the contents of the two into the one in better condition or larger. Before dumping the chest, he places all items on the ground for anyone to pick up. Anything unclaimed will go back into the chest.
Angus d20+4=14 Thursday November 6th, 2003 1:29:12 PM
After Syr dumps the contents of the chest out Angus casts detect magic on the lot and reveals his findings to the group.
Angus claims two of the alchemists flasks. "less for Bralin and Syr to have to carry. Do we want to split up the coins now so that it does not make the chest too heavy. I have no problem pleaving the money in the chest as it is less for me to carry, but it might help out Bralin and Syr."
Angus looks around the battle scene looking for more veve critters (spot 14). " I think we should at least travel for awhile before we make camp. Lets put some distance between us and the vege critter and any of his friends. I will cast a light cantrip or three on the chest while we travel."
Xenia Thursday November 6th, 2003 2:04:52 PM
"Sure," Xenia grins at Syrdeth, "I'll teach you, but then I'd have to kill you." She knows it's dumb, but she laughs anyway. It's the kind of joke her dad would make.
Then her eyes go wide when the elf does his trick with the purple glove. She looks around at the other guys around her, "Can I keep it?" she asks.
Then Angus casts his spell, and she looks down at the glove.
Tionel d20+7=26 Thursday November 6th, 2003 2:07:57 PM
"Only six more hours! We can make it, my friends! Let's press on. Bye Margie!" He waves to his bear and the fire elemental, and both disappear. "Anyways, looks like everything will fit inside this extra large sack that I brought. Put all that in here, and then we'll sort it out once we get back to The Giggling Ghost." He gives the sack to Bralin or Florin, the two most stable members of the group, and says softly to him while the others are busy, "Make sure to keep that away from the orphan."
"Well, onwards, ho!" Tionel, in an excellent mood, leads them onwards, and breaks out into a song he thinks would be amusing, given the context. (Woohoo! 26 on perform.)
RATTLIN BOG Hey-ho the rattlin' bog, Bog down in the valley-o
Hey-ho the rattlin' bog, Bog down in the valley-o In this bog there was a tree
Rare tree rattlin tree, tree in the bog and the bog down in the valley-o
Hey-ho the rattlin' bog, Bog down in the valley-o
Hey-ho the rattlin' bog, Bog down in the valley-o On this tree there was a limb
Rare limb rattlin limb, limb on the tree and the tree in the bog and the b og down in the valley-o
Hey-ho the rattlin' bog, Bog down in the valley-o
Hey-ho the rattlin' bog, Bog down in the valley-o On this limb there was a branch
Rare branch a rattlin branch, branch on the limb and the limb on the tree and tree in the bog and the bog down in the valley-o
(My apologies to Bog. :) )
Bog Thursday November 6th, 2003 2:53:21 PM
Bog lets out a belly-laugh. "Jee, Tanks Ti'nel! Ah niv'r hayd a song sung 'bout me! Ah Lak it!"
"Ah, c'mon man," he says to Talen patting him on the back, "We don' hold nuthin against you. You wern't doin any bad stuff, just doin a job fer money is all. Ah mean...you still don' wanna a-tack us 'r anythin do you? Yoo don' look lahk a bayd fello."
Florin Thursday November 6th, 2003 4:39:01 PM
Florin offers to hold on to the sack as far the Float, "We can split this up there. I have no problems with Xania keping the glove either." Florin looks to Bralin and smiles, "I guess we move on, majority has it on moving."
Florin will move out once everyone is done with the trasure as he moves along he keeps an eye out for any more problems and tries to move to the front of the group abit just incase they run into trouble and since he will be more use up front. As they travel and it comes to mind again Florin speaksup about his thoughts, "That Jack guy that showedup earlier, how high up in the nobles do you think you would have to inquire to find anything out about him or the group he is in? I'm not sure what answers my father will give me considering our relationship."
Gordo Thursday November 6th, 2003 5:03:58 PM
Scooping dollops of plant gunk from every nook and cranny, Gordo stomps along, wishing more fervently than ever in his life before that he could hop into a nice hot bath.
Bog Thursday November 6th, 2003 7:01:28 PM
Bog replies to Florin, "Wayl, shooot. If' nits nobells yoo want, den awl we gawtta do is tayl da foncy wooman wot gav us da new clotheses'nthin. She bilt 's oll a new house n' stoff. She'd know! Plus I got adopted by lahk 3 otherz dat we kin also ask!"
Bralin Thursday November 6th, 2003 9:47:54 PM
Bralin takes the bag from Tionel, and nods at his unusually perceptive words regarding the girl.
Seeing Florin range out ahead, he says, "I will take rear guard. My eyes can penetrate the darkness, so we shall not be surprised."
The dwarf takes up a defensive position behind the group, frequently checking the rear.
For some reason, he keeps finding himself humming Tionel's tune, albiet a full two octaves lower and really off key.
The Long Walk (DM MikeK) Friday November 7th, 2003 9:31:25 AM
Xenia is able to determine the 6 gems are worth 100gp each. The glove is magical, and with a bit of experimentation, the rogue finds it has the same capabilities as Syr's (Glove of Storing).
Tionel pours the combined treasure into a big sack that Bralin agrees to carry.
Encouraged by Syr, the group loads up and leaves the plant thing behind, determined to push for the coast. The trip is tiring, and nerve wracking. The ominous, watching, angry feel of the wood diminishes to be replaced by the sounds of animals moving around the group. Despite the seeming nearness of large predators, nothing pops out at the party.
The late hour, combined with the drain of the past few days and the constant adrenaline pumping scares from the wood take their toll. Daphne constantly flits in and out to report on the group's progress, and also encourages everyone with the report that turtle boats will be available on the beach.
But for some, it's just too much.
Luna falls asleep about halfway to the coast. Angus collapses from exhaustion with just over a mile left to go. Xenia makes it to the beach, then also drops into the sand. Dragging sacks of loot and carrying their comrades, the rest of the party stumble and shuffle in a daze toward two huge turtles sitting on the sand.
A half elf is there to greet them.
(OOC -- ACDM Jan to post next. Please wait for her. Also, my apologies, but I took some liberties to speed things up. Please note rules on Forced March, Fatigue, and exhaustion. My main point here is you probably don't want to do that again.)
Holm - turtle handler (Jan) Friday November 7th, 2003 12:14:24 PM
"A little closer..... c'mon, you know how you like the light. Just a little -" *THWAP* Holm's foot-square fly swatter connects with a fly the size of a man's fist. "Gotcha."
Light from a lantern, which dangles from a pole rammed into the sand reveals a lithe, male half-elf of indeterminable age. His long, brown-coloured braid sweeps over his shoulder as he leans forward to pick up the dead fly and put it in a large jar. Nearby, his two giant turtles lie on the sand, waiting. They both wear the typical rope harness that is used to carry folk on top of their shells.
At a sound from the treeline, Holm emits a high pitched whistle, and the turtles shuffle backward toward the water. The elf is reaching for the lantern to snuff out the light, when he sees the party hit the beach. He stops, leaves the lantern lit, and makes another, softer sound, which stop the turtles from their intended escape. "Florice, Phoebe - it's alright. These are our passengers. I think.. and they don't look in very good shape."
He starts toward the group, his mostly elven eyes adjusting to the gloom. "Hey - I'm Holm. I'm here to take you back. Are some of you injured?"
Gordo Friday November 7th, 2003 12:21:26 PM
"No need to worry about us son, we're fine" grunts Gordo as he keels over face first into the sand.
He lies there enjoying the sound of the waves on the beach and the cool night air, and tries not to fall asleep. Monster sap and stomach juices have congealed over his skin, and he itches like crazy. He forces himself to crawl down the beach until he is able to ease himself into the water. He scrubs half heartedly at himself, then rolls back onto the beach, where he looks up at the stars with a smile.
"Aah! That's better!" he sighs.
Xenia Friday November 7th, 2003 1:28:18 PM
Xenia lifts her face from the sand. Her eyes, half open, struggle to focus. With a supreme effort of will, she pushes herself up on a thin arm and rolls onto her back. Groping with one hand, she loosens one more strap on her armor to catch the cool air of the beach.
Her eyes blink and stray toward the light like two single celled creatures drawn instinctively to stimuli. Softly and weakly, a single word escapes her lips. "Awungahum."
Bralin Friday November 7th, 2003 4:17:51 PM
Bralin is the last out of the woodline. The dwarf carries the large sack full of coins and gems over his left shoulder like a peddler. In his right hand he grips his axe, as he has done for the entire journey this night.
His face is a thundercloud as he shuffles tiredly toward the turtles. "I am Bralin Stoneminder. And we are sore fatigued," he replies flatly to the elf. "Take great care in our journey, Holm, for I am in little mood for submersion this night."
Tionel Friday November 7th, 2003 6:32:27 PM
Very exhausted, the elf pitches in as they arrive, "Merry met there, Holm. Ah, give us a few, would you?" Holding one side of Angus, someone like Syr probably holding the other side, he comes up to the beach and lets the man slowly down. "There you go, bud." Next, he plops down next to Gordo, opens his sack somewhat wearily, and begins to toss around a canteen to those who want any water to relax.
Florin Friday November 7th, 2003 8:45:06 PM
Florin walks out of the woods with the others slowly, his breast plate armor feeling very heavy and he being even more tired from helping anyone who might needed help along.
Florin looks to Holm and nods to him in greetings, "Greetings Holm, bless you in Domi's name....we are really thankful for you coming to pick us up. Hopefully all of us will be ready to depart soon." Florin walks over to the nearest turtle and looks at it, colapsing to one knee before sitting back on the ground, "Next time we stop for a rest before moving on, eh friend Bralin?"
If Florin sees Daphne anywhere near he smiles to her, "When we get back to the GG I think we all will need a good drink. Even I may have a drink of something other the water or juice after this."
Angus Saturday November 8th, 2003 3:07:29 PM
Angus weakly lifts his head while being helped by Tionel and Syr. "Turtles....anything to get me to a bed, bath and a hot meal...." ANgus practicly fall asleep while being helped toward the turtles.
Bog Saturday November 8th, 2003 7:27:06 PM
Bog nods rubbing his feet and smiling to the gentleman. "Plised ta meetcha! C'mon Talen, we git ta ride, jes lahk we told ya."
Bog goes over to one of the turtles and climbs on board, then curls up near the neck and closes his eyes. "Wek me whin w' git thar."
Syr Monday November 10th, 2003 1:02:11 AM
The elf looks around at the other's fatigued faces with a sense of guilt. Answering Holm's question, "Yes, there are several of us who have small injuries here and there. Foremost on everyone's mind is just a wee bit of rest, I think."
The elf uses his remaining energy to make sure everyone makes it to the turtles and preparing for the ride home.
Turtle Ride (DM MikeK) Monday November 10th, 2003 9:27:25 AM
The weary heroes mangage to get themselves up onto the turtles.
Daphne flits around protectively as Holm prepares for the journey home.
Xenia Monday November 10th, 2003 10:25:52 AM
Turtle Ride! Turtle Ride! The corners of Xenia's mouth try their level best to rise up into a smile. She crawls and struggles and pushes her way onto the turtle's back, and, finally, picks Tionel as the safest and most snuggly place to collapse against.
She so does not want to miss this ride, but things keep going in and out of focus, and she's not sure she's going to make it.
Tionel Monday November 10th, 2003 12:50:22 PM
"Everybody aboard!" he calls out, and puts as much of his items as he can into his waterproof backpack. Strange how things always seem much smaller going out then going back in...oh well, he lets Xenia keep the blanket. Tionel notices Xenia's tiredness and puts an arm around her shoulder to steady her, and rests his other hand in a nice grippable groove of the turtle shell. A good solid support, in case the trip repeats itself. "Take 'er easy thar, cap'tin!" he chuckles. "I always wanted to say that."
Angus Monday November 10th, 2003 1:06:11 PM
Angus hold on to the turtle and for once is too tired to talk or to play his flute
Bralin Monday November 10th, 2003 3:12:27 PM
The dwarf, recalling his last turtle trip, isn't too sure about this mode of transportation.
But, he's much too tired to argue about it.
The dwarf sighs in resignation and struggles to get himself aboard.
Florin Monday November 10th, 2003 3:15:00 PM
Florin moves onto the nearest turtle and looks to Bralin, smiling to the dwarf, "I'm sure this turtle ride will be better friend."
Holm - turtle handler (Jan) Monday November 10th, 2003 11:17:35 PM
The half elf - having considerably more energy than everyone else appears to have - dashes around, making sure everyone is safely aboard and firmly gripping the harness.
"We'd best be off as soon as possible. Just being on land here makes me nervous," he says, taking his lantern off the hook and stowing it aboard Phoebe.
He winks at Daphne and breaks into a grin at Tionel's remark. "Don't worry, you're in good hands."
As soon as everyone is aboard, Holm feeds both turtles a large dead fly from the jar he carries, then hops aboard Florice and whistles softly. With a lurch... lurch... lurch... s l i d e.......... both turtles gently enter the water and begin swimming back toward the distant Float.
"Did you have some success in the jungle?" he asks the others by way of conversation. "With any luck we might see a few shoals of glowing fish on the way back. They really light up the water."
Gordo Tuesday November 11th, 2003 9:17:57 AM
Gordo lays out flat on the tutle's shell and falls fast asleep. His snores reverberate across the lake.
Sailing, Sailing...(DM MikeK) Tuesday November 11th, 2003 10:35:00 AM
Holm and his turtles quietly slide across the lake. The stars fill the sky overhead, and the soft lapping of the waves lull the exhausted group to dreamland.
Holm very rapidly finds himself transporting 10 sleeping figures back to Floating City.
Entirely too soon, the group is nudged awake to find themselves home. A small group of folks are there to greet the victorious heroes.
Happy stands beaming. "Fantastic job! Just incredible! Wardd's own luck is with you all! Come with me. We'll go back to the Ghost and celebrate in style!" The fact that its like 3 in the morning doesn't seem to disturb the innkeeper in the slightest.
Xenia Tuesday November 11th, 2003 11:06:18 AM
Xenia wakes to voices and light. She's not quite sure where she is. But she's lying next to Tionel, and his arm is around her. She smiles and snuggles in, content to simply be safe and warm for a moment before getting up and trying to figure things out again.
But the time comes for all things to end, and with one last snuggle, she rises up and rubs a sleepy eye with the knuckle of one hand. It's the guy from the Giggling Ghost, and behind him, he familiar night lights and buildings of the Fence Level.
"Hi," she says in a still sleepy voice. "Looks like a party."
Syr Tuesday November 11th, 2003 12:34:05 PM
The elf tries to stay awake and watch Holm closely as he moves the turtles through the water but the exhaustion of the trip is too much. He falls asleep with an arm protectively around the chest and dreams of salads attacking.
Happy to be back in familiar surroundings he does a little bounce as his feet hit the dock, "Hey, guys! While I'd like to celebrate are you sure Bralin and I should take the chest with us? Isn't there someplace safe where we may deposit it?"
(Sorry I missed Monday's post, I was confused by two DMs posting. I should have posted last night but postponed it when I saw Jan's non-DM post :)
Tionel Tuesday November 11th, 2003 2:07:30 PM
Tionel wakes up quite warm and feeling much better from that brief nap. Though he still aches a bit from the fatigue, he gently lets Xenia up, then says to Happy, "We'd be delighted for a nice toast of your famous drinks, Happy... And I'm sure our treasure will be safe as anywhere in your inn while we celebrate." (how much exp did we gain in the game? As far as treasure goes, Tionel would take 50 gp or so to donate to some garden or something in the city and another 50 gp to donate to the orphans, but other than that, nothing.)
(I assume next post is at the inn in celebration?)
Florin Tuesday November 11th, 2003 2:56:50 PM
Florin sleeps well on the turtle after the long trip and time in the jungle like forest they were in.
When Florin is awoke he offers his hand to Holms, "Thank you for coming and getting us good sir." When Florin sees Happy he chuckles, "Glad to see you again Happy and like my friends I could use something to eat and drink but a quick bath first."
Gordo Tuesday November 11th, 2003 5:04:40 PM
The big man awakes with a start. "is it time for breakfast?" he asks, somewhat confused. "Oh, hello there Happy. Celebrate, eh? If by that you mean supply me with a duvet, twelve pillos and a huge soft bed that sounds senstional, old son."
Angus Tuesday November 11th, 2003 7:31:15 PM
Angus wakes up quickly thinking the forest is attacking again and seeing it is not relaxes and takes in his surroundings. "Did I hear someone mention a party and breakfast. I am up for both."
Angus walks over to Holm. "Thanks for the ride good sir, much better the second time around. Where were you on the first trip?"
Angus then greets Happy. "It is good to be back on the Big Float. I think I am ready for a nightcap and some food if anyone else is up for it. Happy do you have a room with a bath? Until I get a bath I will not be much company outside of this group. I feel we must have the forest scent on us..... and maybe alittle more on Gordo."
Bralin Wednesday November 12th, 2003 10:25:49 AM
Bralin tries to remain alert, but he's just too tired. He sleeps, and dreams of the calming power of the rock.
He awakes with a start at the docks, and silently berates himself. Fool. No watch, with the situation unresolved? Bah.
Feeling the need for mead, the dwarf is quite willing to tromp off to the Giggling Ghost.
Syr's concerns are justified, however. "The treasure shall be as safe there, under our protection, than anywhere else," he responds.
Get down tonight (DM MikeK) Wednesday November 12th, 2003 10:33:23 AM
Happy leads the crew to the Giggling Ghost. The tavern floor is, quite naturally, completely deserted.
"Everything is on the house!" Happy declares extravagantly. Then he goes about waking up staffers to help fulfill that promise.
The day dawns joyously as the tired, but victorious, heroes drink to their success. At some point during the festivities, someone who cares and makes a Spot check DC 12 will figure out that both Luna and Talen have disappeared.
Happy also presents Gordo with a jingling sack containing 1000gp. "A small token for saving my tavern," he declares. "Oh and Daphne," he adds hastily as the ghost shoots him a hard glare.
The day continues, and as people show up for breakfast, they too join in congratulating you all.
All and all, its a pretty good day.
Florin d20+2=20 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 1:51:10 PM
Florin glances around the tavern when he first enters, he does notice that Luna and Talen are gone but says nothing.
He smiles to Happy, Daphne and the staffers and excepts one drink before heading up stairs to have a long bath. Florin of course excuses himself very politely to everyone before heading up.
Florin once bathed and clean of all the forest smell will come back down if he isn't to tired and join in the celebration abit, commenting to any of his companions, "I'll go offer the temple of Domi a small offering and then head to my home and see if I can get any info on the Jack guy we seen. Might be a good idea for whoever has the card to come or let me borrow it for a few."
[Spot: 20]
Holm - turtle handler (Jan) - bowing out Wednesday November 12th, 2003 2:22:36 PM
At the docks, Holm smiles and says "My pleasure," to Florin and Angus. Then he's off with his two turtles, gradually disappearing from view along the edge of the City
Tionel Wednesday November 12th, 2003 7:17:27 PM
Free drinks and food! Celebration! Times like this were made to last forever! Tionel leads the party in toasting the health of Happy and the longevity of Daphne, gives a toast to all the nails, another to all the boards, and another to all the bricks, and then another to all the doors, and the windows, and anything else he can think of, then starts toasting the turtles, then the trees, and so on and so on. Somewhere along the way, he asks Angus to play a tune and asks Xenia to a dance. After a delightful little dance, he grins and asks the stout dwarf to one, in the spirit of good will. Not a close-up dance, he explains, but a good old dwarven dance he's seen... He then asks Daphne to one, mistaking her for a real girl by this point. Shortly thereafter, having expended all his vigor, he finds himself somewhere nice and warm to sleep cuddled with a mug of ale, or lets himself be led off to wherever to sleep.
Angus d20+7=20 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 7:54:21 PM
Angus is overjoyed at being able to sit in a chair and have a mug of beer, mead and wine let alone some food that had not spent weeks in a backpack. Although tired from the adventure, the drink and the amazing amount of food the thin man just ate he is reenvigored by Tionel's request to perform for the group.
"Tionel it would be my pleasure" Angus takes out his flute and begins to play a wonderfull concert for the group. Once the dancing starts he picks up the pace of the music until the dancers have exhausted themselves.
When done Angus excuses himself for bed. "The sun is up and I should not be. This body is worn out. Happy is there someplace where I can borrow a bed?"
Xenia Wednesday November 12th, 2003 7:58:33 PM
Xenia is still a bit sleepy. And sore, and tired, and dirty.
These little stewed apple things with crumbly cake topping go a long way toward fixing some of that. And then a fizzy peach drink that's just a little bit bitter, makes the rest, pretty much slide right out the door.
Laughing and talking to Daphne, she tells her about the fan club she and her friends Oben and Beeble had started. She tells her three times, cause each time she forgets she had told her the time before.
And when Tionel asks her to dance, her eyes sparkle. And she tries not to step on his feet, but it's hard to remember if she's done that or not too. But she does remember watching his face. And she remembers it being a quiet face and a noble face. Not overly handsome, but nice. And it's nice to be just nice. And she remembers thinking about just how nice it is to watch someone's face while your dancing.
And then the song ends. And she laughs and claps as Tionel dances a dwarven dance with Bralin. And after that, the night gets all kind of the same, and she must have asked the happy guy if there was some place she could stay here, cause she sure as Hemple wasn't making it back to the bell tower. And the next thing she remembers is the feel of a comfy pillow and soft sheets against her cheek, and, well, can you blame her if she doesn't remember one blessed thing after that?
Syr Thursday November 13th, 2003 4:14:43 AM
The elf samples the beverages very sparingly and can only sit back and watch as his fellow elf indulges a bit too much. He smiles affectionately and moves to catch him as Tionel falls to the floor attempting to kiss a ghost. He spends the early morning hours helping his family into beds at the inn.
Gordo Thursday November 13th, 2003 8:40:12 AM
Gordo takes the sack of coins, but seems almost embarassed to do so. "Well, thanks happy! That's mighty good of you!" he grins, not too sure what to do with the sack. "Um, hey, Syr, why don't you keep an eye on this?"
He smilingly turns down all offers of alcohol, but seems to be enjoying his goat's milk well enough. It is not too long before he retires to bed, where once again the timbers of the Giggling Ghost are subjected to a bravura snoring performance.
Bralin Thursday November 13th, 2003 9:30:15 AM
The dwarf happily partakes in the drink, until he's feeling very, very fine indeed. He bellows a counterpoint to Angus' tune in a rumbling bass voice.
The dwarf can't sing a lick, but he makes up for it with his volume.
By the time Tionel wants to dance, Bralin is all for it. In time with Angus he stomps around the tavern like, well, like a drunken dwarf. Bralin's dancing is fast and involves lots of throwing himself to the floor and pushing back up with his hands to a standing position. The dance plays to the dwarven characteristics - strength, stamina, and short of stature.
Its about the point that Bralin locks Tionel up in a wrestler's grip and throws his own legs out behind him, slamming both men to the ground, that the druid decides to head off in search of fairer game.
Bralin finds a nice corner, and goes to sleep.
R&R (DM MikeK) Thursday November 13th, 2003 10:26:28 AM
The party finally dies out and everyone returns to the apartments.
The next several days are spent resting, recuperating, praying, investigating, etc.
(Let me know what you're up to over a several day period)
Xenia Thursday November 13th, 2003 4:43:03 PM
Xenia wakes up nestled deep in the folds of a warm feather bed. Someone's removed her armor and arranged it neatly and properly on a cedar chest nearby. "Hum?" she murmur's to herself, softly and sleepy eyed. She takes a deep and lazy breath and then crawls out of the mounds of down on all fours.
After a long hot leisurely bath she wraps herself in a big fluffy towel and drifts over to her clothes to dress. Note to self: Bring extra clothes when you go out with these guys. She dresses in her old smelly clothes anyway and stuffs her armor, weapons and everything into the haversack. Next order of business: Breakfast.
She's still kind of sore and achy when she comes down into the common room. The world is still all kind of fuzzy and a little bit too bright. The happy guy is over behind the bar and she goes over and introduces herself. Turns out his name really is Happy. She smiles and thanks him for the room, and she tells him what incredible feather beds they have here. And she thanks him for the food, and the party, and the pink fizzy drinks. And things are still really kind of bright and she asks, "Was there, maybe, any alcohol in those?"
Florin d20+7=18 Thursday November 13th, 2003 5:57:04 PM
After a very interesting night and watching his friends have fun Florin calls it a night. Florin no more then hits his bed and is fast asleep, his body and mind to tired to care at the moment that Gordo's snoring is so loud.
It's early afternoon when Florin finally awakes and he quickly gets bathed and brushes his hair before pulling it back into the normal pony tail. After all this Florin sits down to clean his armor more and checkup his weapons. Finally after all this is done he dresses in his now clean and shiny armor and goes down stairs, feeling much better. Seeing Xania and Happy he smiles to both, "Good morning Xania and Happy. I hope you slept well my friend."
Florin takes time to get something to eat and gets a glass of juice before sighing, "Well, I'll go see the temple first and donate some money to them and then go looking up my father to see if I can get any info from him." Florin looks rather unhappy at the thought of seeing his father but shrugs before looking to Xania and Happy, "If I happen not to come back for awhile then let the others know, my father and me don't exactly get along, this could end up being a very big fight."
With that said Florin will make his way to the temple and donate a 100gps and see the paladin who trained him to be a paladin to tell him of the events that went on so far.
After this Florin will make his way to his home to see if he can get any info from his father on the Jack guy but not expecting much.
[Diplomacy:18]
Gordo Friday November 14th, 2003 6:30:49 AM
Waking much refreshed, the big man heads off to call upon Lady Firiona, their benefactor and connection to high society. It was she, he recalls, that purchased their lodgings for them, and provided fabulous clothes as a reward for finding the Mask of Illgilon.
Once he finds her he brings her up to speed with all the party's recent adventures, and then informs her of Drew's kidnapping.
"You remember Drew, right? Big fella, kind of serious-looking? This Jack fellow just popped up an' took him!" he explains, and then he mentions the red liquid stolen in the jungle.
"Now I don't know about you, but I take it bad when some tinkle-headed popinjay just ups and steals one of my friends! I mean to find these "Lords of Diamonds" and have some stern words with 'em, if you take my meaning. Now, seein' as these Lords are, by an' large, your sort of folks (no offense lass!), I thought perhaps you might be able to give me a steer on where to find 'em. Do you think you can help? For all we know they might be doi' horrible stuff to old Drew, an' we need to get him back."
Angus Friday November 14th, 2003 7:50:31 AM
Angus sleeps well in to the afternoon. When he awakes Angus make a beeline for the baths wanting to freshen up and get the forest smell off of himself. When done he goes to the main room for food and relaxation. It looks like Angus does not want to do much today besides sitting in a chusioned chair.
Bralin d20+12=18 d20+12=18 d20+12=29 Friday November 14th, 2003 9:52:56 AM
The dwarf awakes in the corner of the tavern the next morning with the standard after party headache.
After helping himself to some breakfast, he goes back to the apartments.
Bralin spends the next several days working on the small stone statuette he started in the woods. Through the open door of his room, passersby can hear the steady scrape of metal on stone, and observe the heavy handed dwarf work the stone with deftness and skill.
Three days of craft checks 18, 18, 29
Interlude (DM MikeK) Friday November 14th, 2003 10:51:21 AM
The various members of the group go about their business.
Florin's meeting goes pretty much the way the paladin predicted. His father won't even talk to him without receiving an apology for 'embarrassing the family name with your walk out stunt'. Then, the conversation deteriorates. By the end of a very difficult afternoon, Florin is mostly sure his father has no knowledge of the Lords of Diamonds.
Gordo gets almost the same result, although the process is much more pleasant. Lady Firiona graciously receives the monk, and plys him with cakes and drink. At the mention of the Lords of Diamonds, her eyes narrow and she suggests a walk in the garden. "You must keep your opinions hidden," she warns seriously during the walk. "No one knows who they are, but we do know they are extraordinarily dangerous when provoked. Others have looked for them, and disappeared forever for their efforts." She sees Gordo will not be swayed. "I will find what I can," she promises. "But it will take time, for I must be very careful. You must promise me not to be rash, good Gordo. I don't want my heroes dead in an alley because of this."
Florin Friday November 14th, 2003 12:07:11 PM
Florin makes his way back the the GG after his long and hard talk with his father, before leaving he glares at his father, "You only care about your position in this city. Think about the other people for once. Stop using everyone like pawns." Once he enters the tavern after seeing his father or fighting with him anyway, Florin does something terribly unusual and against his nature, "Happy, I need something strong to drink please."
Florin sits down at the bar and sighs waiting for his drink. Only talking is spoken to firstb ut seeming to be in a horrible mood from his meeting with his father, "Hasn't changed abit, still a jerk in everyway possible. God I pray to Domi something sets that man straight." Florin doesn't seem to care if his words about his father is taken wrong.
Tionel Friday November 14th, 2003 2:47:46 PM
How do elves sleep in when they only need four hours? Somehow, Tionel doesn't show up early like the rest, instead choosing to mull around in bed till the night. It's too comfortable to get up, he thinks to himself. Gradually, the dwarves pounding on the hammer with morningstars go away, as the hangover dissipates. Throughout the morning he sleeps and tosses about in his luxurious bed in their new apartments.
(Just so everyone knows, read back two adventures or so; we spent a good few weeks rebuilding an apartment for our own home and personalizing it. It's divided into male and female areas, and there's more than enough room for most people I believe.) When afternoon finally arrives, his hunger forces him out of bed. He puts on a luxurious green robe which is more of a nightgown than anything else, and heads downstairs for some breakfast.
Xenia Friday November 14th, 2003 4:24:37 PM
Xenia leaves the Giggling Ghost and returns to her place in the bell tower on Riverfront Street. Oben and Beeble are out, so Xenia spends most of the day doing laundry and oiling down her armor. The leathers are well crafted, but sea water and humidity can't be good for them. And besides, the suit of armor was a gift, and that means a lot to her.
Her roommates return in the evening and the three girls talk long into the night. Xenia tells them all about these new guys she met and the adventure in the dark and creepy forest. Their single lamp burns into the early morning with the dark expanse of the lake, and the Crying Woods beyond, visible right from their very own window.
The next day, she borrows one of Beeble's outfits, and sets about trying to find the guys again. She starts back at the Ghost and gets directions. She walks the streets, feeling somewhat self-conscious in the low cut white cotton bodice. And, seriously, she hasn't worn a skirt in ages. But the soft white material makes a dramatic impact against the black of her skin, and deep inside, she's pretty pleased with the effect.
When she finds the place she knocks at the door, and then stands holding her hands in front of her hoping that Tionel will answer.
Bog d20+3=19 d20+1=16 Friday November 14th, 2003 5:22:35 PM
Bog seems saddened upon his return, having offered his friendship to someone where it is obviously refused. Trying not to let that get the best of him, he first goes to all the bouncers of the Giggling Ghost, then to those houses and shops in the immediate area, then to those people and places between the GG and the Turtle Docks asking all if they saw the man that looks and was dressed like Talen and/or the little girl (giving descriptions of her too), telling that they may have been either together or apart. [Gather Information 16]
[BTW, I was nominated by two different people for a hero point but wasn't given one. Was this a mistake?]
Angus Sunday November 16th, 2003 10:42:34 AM
Angus continues to hang out at the Giggling Ghost as he is waiting for Tionel.
Angus spies Xenia and is floored. "Wow very very nice. Not quite a disquise of blending into the woodwork, but real nice none the less. Try this." And Angus turns Xenia invisible. "Just something I have been practicing, kind of neat. Now I can't wait for you to reappear for the WOW factor again."
Angus waits for Tionel to discuss seeing the groups apartments since he need a more permanent place to stay.
Angus asks Xenia " Do you wants to go cloths shopping tommorow, you have obvious good taste, and I need new outfits after the run in the forest."
Xenia Sunday November 16th, 2003 1:46:17 PM
Xenia beams at the sorcerer's compliments. "You like it?" she asks rhetorically, white teeth shining out of her dark face. She turns for him, and then goes invisible.
"Whoa!" Xenia's laugh of delight rings out across the bar from thin air. "Can you hear me over here?" she calls out as she dodges around a nearby table.
"Hey, um, wait. I kind of wanted, um, Tionel to see ... Um, how long does this last?"
Later: "Sure, I'll go shopping with you. I'm kind of broke right now, but I could stand looking for another adventuring outfit. Especially if we're gonna be out crawling around in the woods and stuff." She steps back and takes in the tall thin human with an appraising look. "What kind of look are you after? You want tall dark and mysterious? Sophisticated man about town? Or, you wanna look Dangerous?" And she says the last with a wicked smile.
Gordo Sunday November 16th, 2003 3:39:22 PM
Gordo's usual brash and cheery attitude is quietened by Lady Firiona's words. Concerned he says "Lass, I had no idea these bozos were so dangerous. I don't want you puttin' yerself at risk 'cause of me. I just thought you might know something. I don't want to see you get into trouble 'cause of us, after all you've done for us. Don't worry, we'll find these jokers, and I'll take your advice. I won't do anything stupid." He winks, and his normal easygoing manner is back once more.
The big man returns to the Giggling Ghost and spies Florin cursing into his ale.
"Hey there son, don't let your old feller grind you down. You can't choose your family, and if he's no good it's no fault o' yours. Just be thankful you turned out as good as you did, in spite of him! If you're angry with him it's probably because you wish you could change him, and it's hard enough changing normal folks, let alone your own family. C'mon, don't sit here drowning your sorrows. Seems funny telling a fellow like you this, but if I were you I'd be asking my god for answers, not the barman. No offense, Happy."
Tionel Sunday November 16th, 2003 7:41:50 PM
Tionel answers the door a bit belatedly, having taken his time to dress and prepare for the day. He hums to himself as he goes to the door, intent upon stepping out to take a walk down to the orphanage to tell the kids his latest story. But as the door swings open, he finds himself looking out into the street where Xenia and Angus are chatting about clothes. Right now he's dressed rather flashy and most unlike the previous adventure; he's wearing tight black breeches, a v-necked white shirt emblazoned with a golden dragon, and a hooded black cloak that makes him look somehow debonair. His golden hair lightly bounces off his shoulders as he hops down the steps and he greets the two with delighted blue eyes and a whimsical smile. "Xenia and Angus! Well, it's a pleasure to see you so early in the morn-er, mid-afternoon," he revises his timetable at sight of the sun. "You look fantastic, Xenia! If you take her down to the market, you'll have to fight the merchants' sons off her with a stick, Angus. You two should afterwards go on a little exploration of a fine place to dine, the Bullseye Keep, where they would feed you a most delicious variety of foods and wines, just perfect for a date," he subtly hints, his eyes mischevious. "Sometimes I sing there, romantic music for couples."
If they mention wanting to move in; "Oh, sure, sure. Come on in, move in! We have more than enough space, and what with Gordo and Syr---at least, I think my fellow elf is moving in, it will be most suitable for us, er, venturesome sorts. Trouble comes seeking us, you know, and the more the merrier."
Xenia Sunday November 16th, 2003 8:00:05 PM
"Well, I ... " Xenia begins somewhat taken aback. "Well, only if you'll consent to show us, Tionel," she says recovering. "You're looking very handsome yourself," she smiles, taking a slow walk around the elf and admiring his attire. "You aren't, um, headed for a date yourself, are you? I mean, if you are, we won't keep you. But if you're not, then I'd love to have you take me to, I mean we'd love to have you come to dinner with us tonight. We were just kind of out shopping. As friends. And Angus was looking for you guys. And I was looking for you, I mean you guys, and so we decided to come down here together."
And Xenia can feel herself getting deeper and deeper into it, to the point at which she's not sure she can salvage anything out of this. She's feeling kind of panicky and she's not really sure what she's going to do next. Ideas flash through her head, even a few drastic ones.
Florin Sunday November 16th, 2003 8:02:14 PM
Florin looksup at Gordo when th man speaks and nods, still downing all his ale and making one last grumble, "One day I think Domi will allow me to change him...one way or another."
Florin glances at Xania when she reappears, now and his cheeks go crimson in a blush, "By Domi's hand." Florin goes speachless after his starting comment but is quick to cetch himself, "I agree with Angus and Tionel, you look very nice Xania." Florin thinks for a moment, having heard Xania's comment on clothing, "I will loan you some money for clothes dear lady." Florin smiles and then turns not wanting to seem to foreward.
Xenia [[ Back-Post ]] Sunday November 16th, 2003 9:31:44 PM
"Thank you, Florin," Xenia says with a smile. "That is so sweet."
She considers taking the paladin's loan. And then she considers it again. The only real alternative is to go out and steal something of her own, and she's pretty sure he wouldn't approve of that. That, or go without.
"Let me think about the loan, ok, Florin," she says touching his arm. "You are so sweet," and she gives him a peck on the cheek."
Bralin Sunday November 16th, 2003 10:42:25 PM
Bralin stays in the group's apartments. He stashed all his belongings in an empty room after the bar fight, and sees no reason not to call it his own.
In one corner of his mind, the dwarf hears Tionel go out. But he is working the stone, and the elf is quickly forgotten.
Syr Monday November 17th, 2003 1:04:25 AM
Syr awakens early from the festivities and immediately heads across the street for some breakfast. Spying Mother Flauset, he asks how things are going and if she needs anything.
Quick on the offer, she pulls him to the back where he spends the rest of his day around the kids and building more bunk beds in the orphange.
As dusk settles in, he leaves with a satisfied smile on his face and makes his way back home. Seeing the three-some across the street he stops.
"Come on in." Noticing the newly attired group, he shakes his head quickly and smells the sweat of the day on his shirt. Embarrassed he points to the room with the outside entrance. "Xenia, you should probably take Jez's old room, I doubt she'll be back." With that he excuses himself to shower and change.
Interlude 2 (DM MikeK) Monday November 17th, 2003 9:44:07 AM
Angus and Xenia get some new threads.
Gordo and Florin spend some time in the bar and talk about life and Lords and such.
Bog spends the day looking for Talen and Luna, without success. Bog does get a Hero Point. Sorry about that.
Bralin carves on his rock.
Syr provides some much needed labor for the orphanage.
The day and night passes as folks figure out where they are going to stay.
A new day dawns over Floating City.
Florin Monday November 17th, 2003 11:30:11 AM
After speaking to Gordo the biggest part of the day and actually enjoying having the big mans help in sorting through his thoughts he claps Gordo on the arm, "Thank you for your help Gordo. I most deffinelty hate being of noble birth but do try hard to be more like others and not the common noble."
If Florin can speak to Syr sometime he will speak to him, "You help the people of the orphanage out right? If there anyway I can help out? I'm not as agile as most but I can put my muscle to use if there is anything I can help with." Florin smiles politely, not wanting to sound like he is butting in to anything but he does believe that helping the orphans in anyway would be what Domi would wish of him also and something the temple of Domi would ask of Florin also.
Tionel Monday November 17th, 2003 11:53:21 AM
Somehow, Tionel manages to guide Xenia and Angus along through their tour of the city. He seems to know many of the fashionable places to be, and always welcome, if not expected, at them. He shows them to the fine inn he suggested, and at one point in dinner he suddenly stands up in the middle of the first course. "Would you believe it?" he says, looking like he just remembered something extremely important. "I have forgotten a very important task...don't you two lovebirds worry about it, you just enjoy your dinner and each other's company." He flashes a smile at both of them and vanishes off into the crowd before they can say a departing sentence. Humming to himself, he hopes the two get along famously. For a moment the thought occurs that maybe Xenia was interested in him for a few moments back there at the house, but it passes. Nah. Besides, Angus, he thinks to himself, is far more deserving of Xenia than a wretched rogue like himself.
Tionel spends that night getting in contact with some very important friends --- drinking holes and bars that he has missed very much in his trip to the wild. There's nothing like the city, he thinks to himself in the midst of the noisiest, most comfortable bar he can find.
The next day, he first heads over to Mama Flaoust's. There, he asks her, (Calling her a respectful Ma'am of course), if he can take a few of the kids out to the docks to enjoy a fine dinner. He uses all his flaunted charms to convince the lady, and spends the morning bringing the kids along with him to the docks to enjoy fresh fish food, watch the workers, and spin stories to pass time. Hopefully it all works out well, and he drops back around noon with a bunch of tired but excited orphans.
(Tionel will do avoid doing *actual* work, btw.)
Xenia Monday November 17th, 2003 1:10:30 PM
Tionel's early departure is something of a shock. Xenia sputters with but's and I-thought's as she watches him leave. For the rest of the evening she is in a foul mood. Her dark face is even darker, and she's surly and incommunicative.
She wakes up the new day to the sound of the gulls and does nothing but lie in bed for a while, thinking. Then she rises and dresses in her usual clothes, strapping on each piece of leather armor, adjusting each buckle just right. She ties her hair back tight against her head, and then she leaves the bell tower in search of Angus.
"I'm sorry about last night," she apologizes, when she finds him. "I must have been a real bear to be with last night. I'm really sorry. You're a real nice guy and you deserve better." She looks down and sighs.
"Hey, Angus, you know that room Syr was talking about yesterday? Why don't you take it? It's a really nice single room, right in the center upstairs. I mean, I know you don't have a place to stay. And I think I'll be staying in the bell tower with my roommates for a while. It's got a nice view. And my roommates are nice. I've told them about you. Beeble says you sound cute. She's human too."
After talking with Angus, she finds herself out on the street with nowhere, really to go. She wanders a bit before finding herself in front of the orphanage that these guys always talk about. After a moment's hesitation, she knocks o the door and lets herself in.
Angus d20+7=16 Monday November 17th, 2003 11:43:25 PM
Angus watches Xenia's reactions during dinner and sees the writting on the wall regarding Xenia's interests. Angus was only interested in a shopping partner. As conversation evaporates after Tionel leaves Angus pulls out his flute a plys a merry tune (Perform 16). "Xenia thank you for the day and for your expert eye in picking out new cloths for me. Why did you pick this particluar color combination?"
The next day Angus answers Xenia about Jez's" I believe the room Syr offered you is in the female wing and should be yours. I can stay with the Gentlemen in the other wing."
Angus will ask Syr where to stow his gear in the apartments. "Syr where can my area be in the rooms and can you give me a tour? Syr how quite can you be?" Angus asks as he touches Syr in an attempt to turn him invisible.
Syr Tuesday November 18th, 2003 5:45:39 AM
Syr's face lights up with excitement as Florin offers to help at the orphanage. "Occasionally, I slip over there for chores but most of the time, it's just fun telling stories to the kids. I'm sure Mother will have no problem at all with you stopping by. In fact, I can introduce you later today!"
Overhearing Angus and his conversation with Xenia, the elf's eyebrows shoot up at the wizard's chivalry, clearly impressed. As Syr is touched by Angus he says, "Not very quiet when I'm giving you the cheap tour, remember?" He says with a grin and a rough elbow at the mage's ribs.
Moving past Drew's old-chair his face saddens. "Down here we have the living room, kitchen, and everything else... Up these stairs are the bedrooms." Stopping at the Mask Day Mural, "See that is me!"
Moving on, "You can put your stuff in my room. Since Drew isn't here, I guess I have a bed available." He becomes very quiet after that statement.
(OOC: Read the March the 5th post for a fairly accurate description of the apartment. It seems I never received the attachment of the map, can someone forward it to shansen2@houston.rr.com).
Gordo Tuesday November 18th, 2003 6:09:20 AM
If the big man notes the romantic undercurrents he doesn't let on. He merely smiles and jokes cheerfully, then stretches his arms and announces it's time to go and do his excercises. He heads out into the yard, strips off to the waist and begins a punishing series of punching and kicking excercises. Then, after building uip a good sweat he heads off for a run. He is gone for several hours.
Bralin Tuesday November 18th, 2003 9:47:53 AM
The dwarf tinks away on his statuette long into the night before drifting off to sleep.
The next morning, he grabs a quick bite of whatever he can find, and then goes back to the stone.
Bralin occasionally looks at the new ring on his finger. Syr showed him the party treasury, and the dwarf gladly gave up claim to that strange voucher Xenia brought back in return for this ring. It is always beneficial to be protected in combat.
Turning back to the stone, he loses himself once again in the intricate lines.
Interlude 3 (DM MikeK) Tuesday November 18th, 2003 10:07:27 AM
Things get interesting between Xenia, Tionel, and Angus.
Syr shows off the apartments.
A new day dawns.
Xenia Tuesday November 18th, 2003 11:35:36 AM
Xenia has tossed and turned all night, thinking about the room at the apartments, the rest of the guys, and Tionel, and Angus and the whole mess. When day breaks, bringing with it again the sound of the gulls and the smell of the sea, she's not very rested and kind of bad tempered.
She dresses again in full armor and makes her way out to the apartments again. She looks for Angus and finds that, sure enough, he has left the single room unoccupied.
"Angus, you might as well take that room," she says when she finally finds him. "I don't know if I really want to move in here. I mean, I do. But I'm not sure I should. I mean, I'm not sure it would be really comfortable for everyone. I mean ... Oh, I don't know!" she says throwing up her hands in frustration. "I think I've made a mess of things, Angus. I really do. And I'm not sure what I should do now."
"Angus, you're a nice guy. Really you are. And I respect your advise. Could you tell me? Could you tell me what you think I should do? I don't know anymore."
Later that day, Xenia wanders back across to the orphanage. She had been reluctant to speak to anyone the other day and had simply watched the children at play. This time, she spies a little blonde haired human girl playing alone in a corner. "Hi, my name's Xenia. What's yours?"
They talk. And Xenia tells her about her parents. How she was an orphan too, for a little while. Until her father and mother found her crying in a puddle outside a sewer culvert and took her home. They chatted away the rest of the day. And when Xenia returns home that evening she feels much better about herself.
Florin Tuesday November 18th, 2003 1:02:23 PM
Florin spends a small bit of time out shopping before coming back to the orphanage. He hunts up Syr to speak to him again, "I would gladly meet with Mother as you call her. I don't know what I could do to help for sure, any stories I would tell would be of Domi and his feats and of my experiences at the temple of Domi....minus me and my father's history. As long as they don't find out I'm of noble blood, don't want to scare anyone and I hate that being common knowledge." As he speaks to Syr he also thinks, "Syr, I would like to give up my money for one of the rings of protection+1 we have. I spent 100gps which I gave to the temple of Domi but I would be willing to make up the rest on future adventuers we have."
While at the orphanage and when Xenia shows up he pulls out the package from his earlier shopping and approaches her, "umm...I thought about the quest we were on and such and got this." He holds the package out to Xenia and quickly turns to go, abit embarassed considering he has never shopped for someone before let alone a lady.
[In the package Xenia will find 2 pairs of explorer's outfits made of fine silk, warm green in color. Also is a necklace (strand of rose quartz) with a pendant attached made of rose quartz which is carzed into the shape of Domi's holy symbol. A small note is with it saying, "For luck. Domi is always watching."]
Gordo Tuesday November 18th, 2003 5:46:22 PM
The big man decides upon a 700GP catacombs voucher from the rewards of their recent adventures. "Should see me right for a rainy day!" he smiles.
Bog Tuesday November 18th, 2003 8:37:59 PM
Bog scrawls a well-written note on some nice yellow crinkly paper and places it on the mantle in the front room of the apartments.
"All, I've gone to Lady Firiona's for a few days. I need a rest after all the excitement. Perhaps I can find out more about all those in our lives that have gone missing. If you need me for anything, check with her. Best to all, Bog"
He packs up some of his clothes (including at least one particularly fancy robe) and books and heads to Lady Firiona's and asks the good lady if he might spend a little holiday at her estate to calm his nerves.
He will spend his time relaxing and chatting with her and taking tea and attending any fancy events she might have (rubbing elbows especially with those he has met before) and work on improving himself a little, in particular asking her to help him with his manner of speech. He will of course work into his chats about Talen and Luna and their whole adventure and how the two have disappeared and that's really bothering him.
Bralin d20+12=23 Tuesday November 18th, 2003 9:09:30 PM
His statue is complete, and Bralin sets it on a mantle. Using common stone, the dwarf has created a scene of a minotaur and a human, locked in an upright wrestling embrace. The human, a large bald man with flowing whiskers, looks awfully familiar.
The dwarf ducks out of the apartments, and returns with a block of green marble, delicately laced with white lines. This stone might take longer, and Bralin smiles as he bends to his task.
Craft check 23. DC 15 x 23 = 335cp out of 1500cp
Angus Tuesday November 18th, 2003 10:38:55 PM
Angus is pleased with his tour of the apartments and is especially pleased that Syr has given him a bed in his room, feeling somwhat honored. "Thank you Syr. I am very pleased to call the apartments home."
In respnse to Xenia. "Please take the room, as I will be rooming with Syr. This is a good group hear and you should feel comfortable with everyone. I know you have some issues you need to work out, but I have a feeling that everyone wants you around, especially me. You have proved to be a good adventurer, companion and friend and I am sure everyone else feels the same way. You just have to see how everything works out. Just give everyone time."
Angus hangs out at the apartment feeling very proud and accepted.
Syr Wednesday November 19th, 2003 2:36:57 AM
From the common room, Syr watches as Xenia enters and searches out Angus. Shaking his head, he nudges Tionel, "Do you think it's the human side that makes her so moody?"
Handing the ring to Florin, "Not a problem, I'm sure the ring will help you." Once everyone has taken their shares of the treasure, he shows the new members where the secret entrance in the library is and how to open it by raising a bookshelf. He quickly stores the items left over and closes the door. Later on in the day, he deposits any additions to the group treasury at Karinthis' Temple.
In the evening, he tells Bog, "You can have both book cases. I don't really do aot of reading. I really just like this room for the three windows."
Interlude 4 (DM MikeK) Wednesday November 19th, 2003 10:40:12 AM
People start taking over rooms, and Xenia and Florin find themselves in an interesting situation. There are but 7 beds.
Syr and Angus share one large room. Gordo, Bog, and Tionel are each in a single room. And Bralin has moved into the other double.
Bog takes a much needed vacation, leaving the others to figure out new sleeping arrangements.
Mama Flaust is a fine, caring women who takes any help she can get, be it fixing, cleaning, or just taking some kids for a walk.
During his tour of the local bars, Tionel starts picking up a persistent rumor that a noble is planning to set up a colony on the shore of the lake. Public opinion is divided as to the intelligence of that particular venture.
A new day dawns.
Need sheets from Angus and Syr
Xenia Wednesday November 19th, 2003 11:34:56 AM
Florin leaves so quickly after giving her the package, that Xenia has no time to react. She simply sits next to the little blonde orphan girl, who's name she has discovered is Kyria, and watches the paladin as he walks swiftly out the door. After that, well, the package simply doesn't register attention until later that evening after Xenia has returned home. She opens the plain wrapped package with curiosity, and her eyes go wide as the contents reveal themselves. Two beautiful new outfits in the softest warm green silk. The half elven girl's eyes glow as she lifts each item out and holds it up. So light. So soft as she puts it to her cheek. (And, boys and girls, silk is warm in the winter/cool in the summer, too.) When her roommates return from work later that evening, they are soooo jealous.
The next day, Xenia puts on one of the outfits and heads for the apartments. The green tunic is loose and belts at the waist over tight green silk leggings that some clever craftsman has somehow gotten to stretch and move with the wearer. It has pockets at the shoulders of the sleeves and the front opens in a plunging V that can be buttoned up to form a short collar against wind or cold. Today, she leaves it open and the rose quartz pendant rests reverently against her dark skin. The outfit comes with a beautiful silk lined cloak. Normally cloaks are out, for movement reasons, but today, she throws this one over her shoulders with a smile. And she tops it all off with a jaunty little beret of dark green that drops loosely down the right side while sporting a pheasant plume on the left.
When she reaches the apartments, the first person she button-holes is Florin. "Thank you, Florin!" She hugs him, and reaches up on tip toes to kiss him on the cheek, and then hugs him again. "They're both so beautiful." She hugs him again and then does a little swirl with the cape. "Thank you, thank you. Thank you, thank you. Thank you, thank you. Thank you!" She jumps on him again and kisses him laughing with delight. "I'm going to show the guys," she says and rushes off.
Later, she goes up to the second floor to see the single room. It's nice. Really nice. But she thinks of her place in the bell tower with it's view of the lake and her two nice roommates, and she worries her lip with indecision. Maybe she should just try it. It's not like she couldn't just go visit Oben and Beeble whenever she wanted. And they could come here. She'll miss her view of the Lake. But the garden is so nice. She can already envision having kaffe out in the garden in the early morning. She finds Angus. "Thanks for being so nice and patient with me. I decided to take that room. I mean, if you don't mind. And I'm really sorry again for the other night. Maybe we can go out for some fun another night. I'm not always ... boy, I was pretty bad that night, wasn't I," she says with a sheepish laugh.
When things have quieted down, Xenia walks across the street to the orphanage. She finds Kyria. They spend the rest of the day playing and talking. They go down the street to the a baker's, and Xenia spends some of her meager funds to buy Kyria some treats.
Florin Wednesday November 19th, 2003 2:41:21 PM
Florin decides to keep his room at the temple and will let Xenia have the room. Not minding at all and feeling at home in the temple where his teacher lives.
In the morning Florin smiles when he sees Xenia, "The outfits look great on you Lady Xenia." Before Florin can say anything else though he is hugged and kissed on the cheek by Xenia and he blushes deeply and feels rather akward, "I...uhh...I...I'm glad you like the clothes and necklace..." Florin clearly isn't use to such acts but his eyes give away that he is happy that Xenia liked the gifts and finds that the hugs and kisses were even nice and he thinks of all this the rest of the day.
Florin will spend his day after seeing Xenia, helping Mama Flaust in anything he can and decided to ask something, "My friend Gordo is a very nice guy, if he would and you would allow Mama Flaust, then we can take some of the kids to the temple of Domi to visit. My teacher and the other priests I doubt would mind them being there." Florin thinks abit and grins abit, "Xenia likes the children also, maybe she would go."
Syr Wednesday November 19th, 2003 2:55:29 PM
Getting up early, Syr decides to go out on the town. He spends most of his time visiting the marketplace roaming randomly about the town.
Tionel Wednesday November 19th, 2003 7:06:18 PM
The elf laughs lightly at Syr's comment. "Yes, it is, no doubt. Ah, my brother, you don't mind if I call you that? For you do seem like one of my brothers, and his name was Sarandon, but we called him Sar, which sounds a lot like your name, and he shared a few of your mannerisms, I'm pleased to say. Anyways...let me share with you some elven wine that I keep to remind me of home." Up in their room, he opens the bottle (Syr notices a few other ones, all rather good wines), and if Syr declines, than he drinks one anyways. "Syr, I'd hate to say this, but I'm afraid that Xenia seemed to have been a bit taken with me. I admit, I find myself occasionally attracted to the human and mixed inhabitants of this city a bit too much...well, you know, at least, the problems that abound in such a union. I'm afraid to say it caused me a bit of sadness, to have to ignore the fine lass, especially since I'm sure she would be very good to get to know. But I had to put off her advances nonetheless... The reason I tell you this is I wish for her to know, and I'm afraid that telling her directly might do more damage to her feelings." After another glass of (hopefully shared) elven wine, Tionel continues, "In any case, life is meant to be living, and I was hoping she would cater to another. I wanted to thank you, brother, for helping me back there in that fight. To be honest, I was a bit in over my head... Strangely the only fights I've ever fought have been against women. I mean, not marital fights, but ... evil cooks in disguise, these witches, it's quite peculiar. I admit, I haven't had much training in how to fight, but I'm getting better I hope." Basically, Tionel blabs on a bit more, about the group, about things worrying him, and then suddenly sits up. "You know, some noble may be starting up a colony, and I'm sure that if this is true, he'll need a couple of fine fellows to scout the land and protect the people. It'll be a much easier adventure, and hopefully that interfering Jack character will not be involved." Tionel smiles. "I'm going to head over to an inn--- the Inn Famous. A new pub I noticed in the docks area yesterday, rather interesting name, no?"
Angus Wednesday November 19th, 2003 7:13:00 PM
Angus just lounges around the apartments enjoying the new abode. "No attacking plants..."
Angus entertains Xenia's offer. "I will be happy to go out on the town anytime you want. I am always game. Do you want to go invisible....."
Angus overhears the elves talking. " I am ready for something new, tell me about this Famous inn..."
Bralin d20+12=26 Wednesday November 19th, 2003 10:49:17 PM
Bralin notices Xenia planning to move in to one of the single rooms. Given that Syr and Angus are sharing the other double, and Florin is staying at the temple, that means either Tionel, Gordo, or Bog is moving in with him.
Within 30 minutes of arriving at that conclusion, all of Bog's stuff is in the double room.
Then, having staved off potential disaster, he goes back to his stone.
Craft check 26 DC 15 x 26 = 390. 725 of 1500 complete.
Gordo Thursday November 20th, 2003 12:25:57 PM
Oblivious to getting the cold shoulder from Bralin (and who can blame the dwarf with Gordo's nocturnal cacophony), he congratulates the dwarf on his carving. "Hey son, that looks a bit like me!" He peers closely. "You, know, that's pretty good!"
He happily accompanies hordes of orphans to Domi's temple along with Florin.
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