ADM Carla: "Long Day's Journey Into Night" Tuesday November 4th, 2003 7:40:17 PM
The Bloodpack wake up and start to break camp.
Grymash and Jake revisit their dreams. Later, Gry predicts the weather. Clear, sunny, and hot! Flea plays at being the spy. During their early morning meditations Anuk and Gilan notice the ominous dawn. They have seen the sun rise, already shimmering like a mirage at such an early hour. It's going to be a hot one! The wooden orb, cool against Gilan's palm, indicates they are to go West. Trellus motivates the group to get going, as he senses the heat already starting to rise up from the ground.
By mid-morning the terrain has started to change. The grass is shorter and a little sparser, the ground a little dryer, a little rockier. The temperature is starting to soar. (Fortitude Check DC 15, or else take 1d4 nonlethal damage).
(OOC: I will be posting the DM posts in the P.M. around supper time this week to give everyone 24 hours to respond.)
Gilan d20+13=27 d20+6=23 Tuesday November 4th, 2003 11:57:02 PM
Gilan leads them along in the direction of the orb, trying his best to not get too far ahead of the pack. When he reaches the land change he wipes his forehead with a cloth and then wraps it back around his forehead. "Not a pretty place is it." He takes a small drink from his waterskin and then to the others.
He glances to each in turn studying them closely to see how they are holding up (survival check 27). "Anyone in need of an endure elements?" He figures that he could use one himself but there maybe one of the others that needed it more (Fort 23).
Grymash d20+9=15 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 1:15:03 AM
Gry watches Gilan wipe the sweat from his brow. "SEE ... Gry say it be hot today! Clear, sunny an hot. See uhh uhh! How me know this?"
(Fort Save 15)
Trellus d20+6=12 d4=2 d20+7=23 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 10:25:00 AM
Fort check 12 - 2 hp damage
Survival(plains) - 23
Trellus is sweating profusely in his armor. "Dude, its really hot," he murmurs.
The young man remembers Black talking about the heat. "We need to slow down, conserve energy" he says.
(Survival check 23, +2 to Trellus' Fort save and +1 to everyone else's Fort save (after this round) if we reduce speed by half.)
Turning to Gilan, Trellus takes inventory. "I've got one endure elements spell," he says. "Who else has one?"
The young man continues on, although at a slower pace.
Spell List -- 0 -- Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Guidance, Light 1- Bless, Endure Elements, Remove Fear, Shield of Faith 2- Hold Person, Sound Burst, Spiritual Weapon
Domain spells - Enlarge Person, Bulls Strength
Grymash d20+9=29 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 10:54:37 AM "Maybe pack need to rest in day an walk at night. Pack find shade in grass, huh, maybe cave!"
(Survival check 29, natural 20)
Anuk d20+6=8 d20+9=19 d20+12=28 d20+6=18 d20+10=23 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 12:20:03 PM
As the grass begins to dwindle, Anuk takes advantage of the open space and does a quick visual sweep as they travel. The heat bears down on him, though, and sweat drips into his eyes, making it difficult to see clearly. So, he cocks an ear for any noise not made by the pack. (spot=8, listen=19)
Tearing a strip of cloth from his cloak, he fashions a band and wraps it around his forehead to keep the sweat at bay. The band bunches his curly hair and raises it upward, giving his head the appearance of an odd sort of mushroom. The constant grin he wears just adds to the humorous effect.
Listening to Gry's suggestion, he says, "Ummm...I like the idea. Anyone have any ideas on how we can travel at night and avoid the bugs?" He looks at the grass around them, hoping to see some strains that might be useful for repelling the insects that come out at night (survival=28, knowledge (plains)=23)
(fortitude=18)
Jake d20+6=14 d4=3 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 12:46:02 PM
Jake takes off his rather large hat, the one made out of some weird creature he'd heard called a "Bovine" - though how a vine can ever have flesh is beyond him - to wipe his brow, and then puts it back on. He stops to take a gulp of water, and wonders how sunburnt he's going to be. (3 nonlethal damage.) "Yeah...that or we should find some permanent shade. Still, I think most creatures come out during the night, don't they?"
Flea d20+2=3 d4=4 d20+6=26 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 7:09:26 PM
The heat really gets to the little gnome (Failed Fort. Check, 4 pts dmg) as her dark leather armour seems to absorb the sun's rays rather than repel them. Flea takes a small sip of water, but just enough to moisten her lips. As she walks along with her pack, her mind drifts to thoughts of treasure, and the challenge of interesting locks to be picked. She shakes her head clear of the day dreams and looks to see if there is anything unusual that might signify the next event the pack is to witness. (Spot=26, nat. 20)
ADM Carla "Here Comes the Sun..." d20+3=19 d20+6=19 d20+6=25 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 8:03:19 PM
Grymash ponders, and instinctively knows that with the right skills and a little luck he can forecast the day's weather.(*1) He and Gilan cope with the heat and keep an eye on the others. They notice that Trellus, Flea, and Jake show the tell-tale signs of early sunburn. The ranger at first seems okay, but his armour results in an increase of his body temperature, and his face starts to redden as the heat takes it's toll.(*2) The animal companions are non-plussed by the heat.
Anuk and Flea notice that behind them the mutlicoloured grasses wave enticingly, whereas in front of them the terrain becomes more barren, drier, the grass even sparser and shorter. Anuk knows that to travel at night would mean death from a humming, buzzing, invisible enemy. They must continue under the clear sky and blazing sun.
The hot Plains sun can be as deadly an enemy as any physical foe, and prolonged exposure to high temperatures can quickly wear down an adventurer. (Fortitude Check DC 16, or take 1d4 non lethal damage. +2 to Fort. Check due to the combined efforts of Gilan, Gry, Trellus and Anuk. Remember the -4 armour/heavy clothing penalty!)
(*1) p. 83 PHB (roll 15 "Predict weather up to 24 hours in advance") (*2) "Anuk" roll 1d4 dmg. you're wearing armour, right?
Gilan d20+13=22 d20+13=24 d20+4=10 d4=3 d20+13=32 Wednesday November 5th, 2003 11:26:28 PM
Gilan glances to the others again and calls a halt. "Lets take a short break for a few and cool down." He reaches into his pack again and takes out his waterskin, taking a drink motioning for the others to do the same.
With a nochalant attitude he makes his way to Flea, Trellus and jake. He gently checks over the exposed part of thier skin and clicks his tongue. "Trellus we had better break out those endure elements spells for the three of you...you are showing signs of extreme sunburn." He will take the time to cast his two endure elements spells on Flea and Jake, letting Trellus save his for himself.
Making his way to Grymash he stops and confers with him about the weather. "What do you think...going to continue you would say...the weather that is (survival 22)?" He glances to the big half-orc again and appraises him for a few. "How you holding up Gry...you feel ok?"
He keeps an eye on everyone to keep them on thier feet as they travel onto thier destination. (survival 24). Gilan has not traveled much farther with the group when he starts to feel the effects of the heat himself (fort 10, damage 3). He stops as he pulls his cloak tight about him, starting to feel a little cold. He glances to Gry and shakes his head. "I don't feel too good Gry...I am sure it is the heat getting to me (survival 32)."
Grymash d20+10=27 d20+9=21 d20+11=28 Thursday November 6th, 2003 1:05:38 AM
Grymash looks back at Gilan with concern. "Gilan ... you ok? Gry hot too. Gry thanks Gargul dat steel grass armor is light an airy." (From Anthony's discription, my steelgrass breastplate armor is lighter than leather, only 10 pounds. Do I get a penalty?)
Gry looks up at the sun and sticks his moistened finger to the wind. Grymash gathers more clues by watching the wildlife around them. Taking the time to notice how they are reacting to the weather. After exhausting everything thing he knows about wilderness survival, Grymash turns to divine guidance. After mumbling a short prayer (casting Guidance, +1 to skill check)Gry turns to Gilan with his answer. (Survival check to determine weather: 27. That's good enough to predict the weather for the next three days)
Gry also continues to provide aid to the others who may need it. (Survival check: 21, to give the others a +2 to Fort saves vs. the weather.)
"Pack need ta slow down uh bit (walk half speed) an no get sunbaked. Here, put Gry face paint on. Not get burn!"
Trellus d20+4=13 d4=2 Thursday November 6th, 2003 9:10:40 AM
Fort check - 13, 2 hp dam (4 total)
Trellus guzzles some more water as the heat continues to plague him.
He shakes his head at Gilan. "Let's hold onto this last one. Gry's fine, but either you, me, and Anuk may need it most, later on.
And we got the healing wands if things get truly bright."
He gives Gilan a wan grin. "Tomorrow, let's remember to get some extra Endure spells."
Anuk d4=3 d20+6=22 d20+12=15 Thursday November 6th, 2003 12:10:32 PM
(OOC: sorry, I pressed an incorrect link and lost my last post before I hit submit. This one'll be a bit abbreviated as I'm pressed for time.)
Anuk feels the heat bearing down on him and takes a small drink to quench his thirst. He reminds himeself to fashion a hat when the group camps for the night.
(3 pts damage from previous post. Anuk wears leather armor.)
Realizing the seriousness of the growing threat, Anuk redoubles his efforts to protect himself from the elements (fortitude=20 (22-4+2)) and tries to help the rest of the pack where he can (survival=15).
Jake d20+8=14 Thursday November 6th, 2003 12:50:43 PM
What with the spell against the elements on him, Jake's pace resumes normal speed and he seems okay. For a while. When the spell wears off, he starts showing the same signs and quickly starts peeling again. "Dagnabit..."
Flea (Endure Elements) d20+6=24 Thursday November 6th, 2003 7:13:27 PM
Flea stands still in the druid's shadow as he casts his spell. She wonders at how much more comfortable she is after Gilan's magical treatment. As the party continues, the rogue scans the horizon looking for anything that might offer shelter or provide shade (Spot=24)
ADM Carla "We're Not in Kansas Anymore!" Thursday November 6th, 2003 8:00:08 PM
Gilan and Grymash study the clear skies and the position and size of the sun, and come to the conclusion that the next couple of days will be more of the clear, sunny, and hot conditions the Plains are known for. Flea and Jake accept Gilan's protection, and feel better for it. The heat starts to take it's toll on Trellus. Anuk makes some accomodations, and fares better.
Flea studies the horizon then calls out a warning to the pack, as she spots a small funnel shaped cloud directly in their path. There is almost no time to react to the small whirlwind as it whips up dust, sand, and other debris. With barely any time to react, the dust devil bears down.
(Reflex Save: 12 to take half non lethal damage from irritating particles 1d6 15 to avoid being slammed to the ground, take 1d6 (regular) damage 18 for small characters to avoid being blown away, 1d4 x 10 ft, 1d4 non lethal damage for each 10 ft blown away)
No longer is there any grass. The terrain is a rocky, dusty, barren waste, and yet the compass directs you onwards. From it's zenith, the sun bears down on the adventurers. (DC 17, or take 1d4 non lethal damage, +2 to Fort Check due to combined efforts of Gilan, Gry, and Anuk.)
(OOC: I will post Friday P.M. for Friday, and then Sunday P.M for Monday response. *Stephen* your's is the only character sheet Kent sent that I couldn't open. No armour penalty for steel grass armour.)
Gilan d20+8=24 d20+13=23 d20+3=9 d6=6 d6=2 Thursday November 6th, 2003 11:06:45 PM
Gilan is feeling slightly better after a short rest and some more water. The sick feeling passes rather fast as he looks to the rest and smiles weakly. "I am feeling better." He will follow along with the rest leading as the orb directs. He has taken off his armor and pulled his cloak out to shade the sun and heat (fort 24)(survival 23).
The sudden appearance of the sand devil does not give him time to prepare for it at all (reflex 9). He finds himself bombarded by particles that irritate his skin and more or less peel of some of it (damage 6). As it draws nearer he finds himslef picked-up off the ground and then slammed back down hard some feet away (damage 2).
Trellus d20+4=9 d4=1 d20-1=2 d6=1 d6=1 Friday November 7th, 2003 9:41:48 AM
Fort check 9 - 1 hp dam (5 total)
The heat continues to plague the cleric of Domi, but he grits his teeth and plods on. He's not in bad trouble, yet. And they've only one Endure pick left.
(Reflex 3, 1 hp nonlethal (6 total), 1 hp lethal) The young man sees the dust storm whip up, and has time to sigh in resignation before he's engulfed and slammed to the ground.
He lies there, coughing, for a couple minutes before taking out a water skin and getting a good, long drink.
"Everybody OK?" he coughs out. He is especially keen to find Flea, hoping the small gnome got out of the way.
Anuk d20+8=18 d20+6=12 d4=2 d20+12=29 Friday November 7th, 2003 11:30:35 AM
Anuk hears Flea's warning, sees the dust devil approach, and performs a complex series of twists and turns, narrowly avoiding the twisting column of wind. (reflex=18). Once it passes, he checks on the others and spends some time gathering any scattered equipment and returning it to it's owners.
Forgetting himself, he exerts a little too much energy in gathering up the scattered belongings and starts to feel the exhausting effects of being out in the sun (fortitude=10 (12-4+2), 2 pts non-lethal (5 pts total). He takes another draught of water and spends a few moments resting. Trying to lighten the situation a bit, he looks up at the rest of the pack with his burnt face. "Hot enough for ya?"
When he begins to feel a little better, he again helps the pack wherever he's needed. (survival=29)
Grymash d20+3=8 d20+3=14 d20+11=19 d6=5 d6=4 d20+2=19 d20+8=28 Friday November 7th, 2003 12:29:19 PM
Grymash is hit by the dust devil. (Reflex save 8, fail. 5 points of non-lethal damage). Sand and little bits of gravel pelt his body and eyes. Grymash would have narrowly escaped the twister if he hadnt tripped over a loose stone. (Reflex save 14, fail. 4 points of damage). Not to worry, a bed of sharp pointy rocks breaks his fall. "GRRRRRR," growls Grymash, half mad at the dust devil and half mad at himself for being bested by swirling dirt.
Grymash hops to his feet and looks back at his party. (Wisdom check 19, perception) Many have already fallen but the whirlwind is heading right for Flea. Realizing that if the dust devil could knock him to the ground, it could easily pick Flea up and carry her off.
"FLEA ... WATCH OUT!!" yells Grymash. Gry prepares to run to her aid. (Preparing an action. IF Flea fails her reflex saves, THEN Grymash will run over and throw himself into the dust devil again and try and act as a barrier against its force and give something for Flea to grab onto -or - if Flea is in range, he will simply grab her. Hit touch AC 28, natural 20.)
(Fort save 19 vs. the weather)
Anuk d20+8=19 Friday November 7th, 2003 3:17:46 PM
Anuk avoids being thrown to the ground by the twister.(Reflex=19)
(OOC: Sorry for the second post...just re-read the DM post and realized that we need to make two saving throws. I originally thought the list was a sliding scale of possible damages for a single roll.)
(Response: Your first interpretation was correct. Sliding scale-1/2 damage, full damage, thrown to ground, blown away. Everyone takes at least 1/2 damage (non-lethal) from the blowing debris.)
Flea (Endure Elements) d20+8=28 d6=2 d20+6=18 Friday November 7th, 2003 5:12:56 PM
Having spotted the mini twister and alerted her pack, the nimble rogue deftly sidesteps the spinning cone. She squints her eyes to avoid getting any grit in them, as the fine sand picked up by the wind pelts her face. (Reflex=28, nat. 20! Can you believe it! half (non-lethal) damage=1)
Thanks to Gilan's spell cast earlier in the day, the heat isn't bothering her. She continues to search for something that will offer the pack shelter from the sun. (Spot=18)
total non-lethal dmg. =5
Jake d20+3=7 d20+8=22 d6=5 Friday November 7th, 2003 6:29:58 PM
Jake is slammed by the dust violently and manages to stand in place with only great discomfort and some minor pain. He accepts it stoically, however, trusting that they will get through this obstacle in time, if not without some travails.
ADM Carla "Dust in the Wind " Friday November 7th, 2003 7:58:25 PM
The extreme heat of this barren place takes it's toll on Trellus and Anuk. The sudden appearance of the small whirlwind adds insult to injury as it slams the cleric to the ground along with Gilan, and Grymash. Through clever manoevers Jake and Anuk avoid getting tossed, while only a miracle saves the gnome from being carried away.
Gry's concern for his pack shows, as he checks them out. The ranger and druid are also paying close attention to the health of their companions as the sun continues to beat down. (DC 18, or take 1d4 non lethal damage, +2 to Fort. Check due to the combined efforts of Gry, Gilan, and Anuk.)
As the group trudges westward, there is a gradual increase in elevation, and the land appears to drop off at the horizon. In the shimmering haze, something very small seems to be making it's way directly towards the pack.
Anuk d6=6 d20+6=25 d20+6=25 d20+12=19 Sunday November 9th, 2003 5:33:40 PM
(OOC: Carla, thanks for the clarification. Anuk takes 3pts non-lethal from the whirlwind (6pts total))
The gentle upward slope is not as difficult as Anuk thought it would be, and he manages to move on without succumbing further to the heat (fortitude=23).
When he sees the thing approaching, Anuk scans the horizon at either side to see if anything might be trying to flank them while this thing has the pack's attention. (listen=25, spot=19)
ADM Carla "Day Tripper" Sunday November 9th, 2003 9:40:58 PM
[OOC: Everyone who was unable to post in response to the Friday P.M. post, please roll your Fort and dmg. What follows is for Monday response!]
Anuk hears only the low lonesome whistle of the wind. He can discern no living thing in this barren waste, except the figure that makes its way deliberately towards the pack. As the figure rises above the crest of the incline, the sharp eyes of the ranger make out what appears to be a lone female. There is a staff of some sort in her right hand.
(Party's initiative. The woman will be within speaking distance after the next round.)
Jake (Mikey) d20+8=14 d4=1 d20+3=19 Monday November 10th, 2003 4:39:06 AM
(Er...I thought we responded on Monday, not on Friday?) (4 damage total) Jake can feel his skin blistering slightly in the heat. Ouch, and painful. But he ignores it hardily, trudging along. None of this sunstuff of Gry's or Gil's seems to work. He glances up and notices the girl on the horizon. "Ey, Bro's, looks like somethin's a'comin'." It approaches fast, so he draws his sword...even though it's a woman, you never can tell. He quickly moves to the left of the group, just in case they need to flank it, about 30 feet.
Stephen ooc Monday November 10th, 2003 9:25:39 AM
(Carla - The player response to the DM's Friday post is considered the players Monday post. We arent required to post over the weekend. We should have been given all day Monday to respond to your Friday post, until you post again this evening.)
Trellus d20+4=13 d4=1 Monday November 10th, 2003 9:53:20 AM
Fort save - 13 1hp dam (7/1 total)
The heat continues to bother the cleric, but he keeps drinking to help lessen the effects.
A single person in this sunbaked spot could be a really bad thing. "Flea, Anuk. Spread out," he suggests wearily.
"Jake, hail her." Trellus takes another swig of water, and is obviously trying to conserve what energy he has left.
Gilan d20+8=20 d20+6=26 d20+6=18 Monday November 10th, 2003 4:39:47 PM
Gilan slows down some as they continue on so that the sun will not hurt as much. He tries to keep his attention on the stuff before him but the sun causes everything to be a little wavy as the heat rises from the ground (fort 20).
He takes another drag from his waterskin and weighs it in his hand. He will have to refill this one before long that he can tell...maybe another drink or two.
Looking up he notices the lone female walking thier way and pauses with the others. "Lets just be ready for anything but try to look friendly at least." He hangs back a little as those that will talk move on forward. With darting eyes he scans the surrounding area as he sends his wasps out once again to see what is around (spot 26, listen 18).
Anuk d20+9=10 d20+6=19 d20+10=28 Monday November 10th, 2003 5:50:27 PM
"Good idea, Trellus." Anuk moves off to one side, and makes sure his bow and an arrow are within easy reach. He also sends Twinge off to hide behind a few nearby rocks. No need to look like a threat, but no need to be unprepared either.
As the stranger approaches, he takes in all the details that he can -- her way of dressing, her weapons, her voice and accent if he can catch it -- hoping to get an idea of who she is and what she might want.
(spot 10, listen 19, knowledge (plains) 28)
Flea (Endure Elements) d20+11=31 d20+6=14 Monday November 10th, 2003 7:40:20 PM
The rogue nods in Trellus' direction, and slips soundlessly (Move Silently=31) to the right of the pack. She checks out the newcomer (Spot=14).
ADM Carla "Good Day Sunshine" d20+9=21 d20+9=26 Monday November 10th, 2003 7:58:45 PM
Trellus continues to be plagued by the heat, but finds the wherewithal to strategize, and sends Anuk and Flea out to flank the newcomer, along with Jake. Anuk does not recognize the woman as being native to the plains. Gilan's companion wasps quickly return from their reconnaissance of the area west of the group. They fly in excited circles, buzzing encouragingly to the druid. As Gilan scans the surrounding area he notices some bleached bones amongst the sand and rocks. Grymash ponders.
Out of the shimmering waves of heat emerges a slim young woman of athletic build. Her brightly coloured tunic contrasts with the sandy and rocky place. Neat leather breaches tucked into soft leather boots complete the look. She approaches the group, openly and directly.
(OOC: Kelly, you may begin posting.)
Grymash d20+11=30 d20+11=28 d20+2=16 d20+7=12 Monday November 10th, 2003 10:12:10 PM
(Fort Saves against the heat: 30 and 28)
Grymash ponders until he can ponder no more. "Trellus, why not weave magic ta fight heat ... it be too hot for Trellus?!"
Grymash walks over to Trellus, after mumbling some words of power, and lays his hand on his shoulder. (Casting Endure Elements on Trellus)"See, now Trellus no too hot. That Gry only feel good in sticky hot spell. Trellus need pray for own sticky hot spell! Cuz ... you no look so good! You uh shade boy, hee hee hee hee!"
Grymash turns back to the pack. "Hey ... what pack do wit Milo skiff. Me be dragin' dis thing. It harder on rocky dirt ground?" Then Gry gets a look at the female in the distance. He growls to himself as he scans the surrounding countryside. (Spot 16, Listen 12)
Gry speaks once again, but this time lower so only the pack can hear. "Keep eyes open pack ... orcs lots of times put weakie female in front, be bait for packs, then orc raiders surprise attack rear end!!"
Liana Monday November 10th, 2003 11:04:45 PM
Her left hand is shielding her eyes from the blinding sun as she nears the group and then lifts it to wave in a friendly gesture. Her face is lightly tanned and her dark hair is pulled back away from her face with a few stray strands that blow in the breeze. She carries a wooden staff in her right hand and digs the end of it into the rocky sand as she comes to a stop before the pack. She offers them a small smile as she looks to each with green eyes and wipes her brow of the sweat that had formed there. "Greetings travelers! Ive something to show you all..something special.." She brushes the wild strands of hair from her eyes and continues. "Its back the way I came, westward..will you come?" Her eyes sparkle with excitement as she waits for response.
Trellus (endure elements) Tuesday November 11th, 2003 10:44:31 AM
Trellus takes the spell from Grymash with a bemused expression.
"Gry," he remarks, as patiently and calmly as he can, "When I asked who had Endure spells earlier this morning? I was talking about the sticky hot spell. I've got one, but was saving it in case Gilan or Anuk needed it more."
The young man claps his hand on the half-orc's shoulder to show he's not upset. "Do you have another one for Anuk?" he asks.
When the woman addresses them, Trellus shares a quick look with Gilan. "Well, we're going that way anyway," he murmurs to the druid.
"We'll come," he calls warily, "but we'd like to know who's weaving with us. We're the Bloodpack. How are you out here alone and without water?"
"Keep shuttlecocked," he warns his friends.
Jake Tuesday November 11th, 2003 2:02:31 PM
Jake instantly changes his mind about the whole situation when he sees the pretty lady closer. He instantly decides he'll do whatever she wants, er, if she's real and not a mirage that is. Then she speaks. "Oh, we'll all definitely go alon', take no notice o' mah friends harsh words or looks, ma'am." He takes off his hat and bows to her. "Mah name's Jake Connell. Please, lead us onto yer site."
Anuk Tuesday November 11th, 2003 3:58:00 PM
Anuk relaxes his stance as the woman addresses the pack. She doesn't seem threatening...since she's headed the same way we are I'm not sure we've got much of a choice but to have her tag alo--
Right then Jake bows extravagantly and Anuk can't help but grin at the showiness of it, remembering how many times he's seen Jake do this to a pretty girl. Well, Jake's never led us too far astray. Hope he's right this time, too.
When the talking dies down, Anuk turns to Gry and says, "May I lend a hand with the skiff?"
Gilan Tuesday November 11th, 2003 5:44:10 PM
Gilan watches as an endure spell is used on Trellus by Grymash and laughs lightly. "We must be more specific in the future for poor Gry." He then turns his attention back to the lady before them and her offer to show them something neat.
With a nod to Trellus he cannot help but agree. "Yeah...we are going that direction." With a shrug he lets things flow as they will, after all this maybe part of the stuff they are to witness. With a nod to the lady he smiles showing no sign of worry or trepidation. "We will follow you to this site."
With a look to Jake he shakes his head and then shrugs it off. She should be able to take care of herself if she is out here alone. Though he is sure she caught his reaction and will know it for what it was. Muttering, he knows that only Gry and Trellus will hear him. "Poor Jake."
Flea (Endure Elements) Tuesday November 11th, 2003 6:23:06 PM
The rogue is a little suspicious of the newcomer, but her curiousity overcomes her cautiousness. Flea approaches the woman, ignorant of the frightening spectacle she must present: a 3 ft., 3 in. figure clad in dusty black leather armour, hair, once strawberry blonde, bleached to the colour and consistancy of straw by the sun, and bright blue eyes staring out of a face streaked with black and green paint. When she smiles at the newcomer, her teeth are startling in her camouflaged face.
"Who are you?" blurts out the gnome.
ADM Carla "Hit the Road, Jake!" Tuesday November 11th, 2003 7:39:33 PM
Grymash and Trellus are suspicious of the newcomer, while Gilan and Anuk are a little less so. Jake is all politeness. The half-orc weaves a little shady magic so that the cleric with fair skin might better cope with the heat and the sun. Anuk, in turn offers to help the big guy haul the skiff over the sand and rocks. Gry, too, notices some bleached bones scattered amongst the rocks, and one looks like a skull!
Members of the group query the newcomer as they make their way westward. Not far ahead is the edge of what appears to be a steep embankment. From the edge, a view of what is to come. As the group makes its way up the gradual incline, the sun continues to bear down. (Fortitude Check 15, or take 1d4 non-lethal damage.)
Anuk d20+6=11 d4=1 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 12:42:49 PM
Anuk attaches a bit of rope to the skiff and begins to pull alongside Grymash. He knows Gry is still pulling most of the weight, but he's glad to help where he can. Eventually, though, the heat begins to slow him. When he has a moment to rest, he takes another drink of his dwindling supply of water. (fortitude 11, 1pt non-lethal (7pts total))
As the pack travels and asks questions, Anuk listens to the stranger's answers with interest.
Gilan d20+8=15 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 3:50:13 PM
Gilan keeps his pace by Trellus, slightly feeling the heat but not too bad (fort 15). He glances around at the others as they follow along, some seem comfortable and others a little suspicious.
Glancing to Trellus he smiles slightly. "What do you think?" He glances to the girl with Jake and shakes his head. "Seems wiser to take her with us then leave her at our backs." He sees no reason to hide his feeling though he is not as fearful of her as some.
Glancing to the ground and the skulls, some maybe even human he shudders. "This place does not hold much hope...we will have to be extra careful." With that he loosens the scimitar at his side, he just wishes that he could put back on his armor too.
Trellus casts Endure Elements upon the ranger, and then goes back to Gilan.
"Looks like you and Gry get to do it the hard way," he tells the druid, with a half-serious grin. He nods soberly at Gilan's assesment of their surroundings. "Say, didn't those dudes we passed a couple days ago talk about a Wyrm's graveyard?
Hey Gry! What kind of bones are these?"
The woman sure isn't that talkative. "I'm Trellus," he says, falling in step with her and Jake. "And you are?"
Liana d20+3=15 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 5:21:10 PM
She drops her pack to the ground and removes a flask of water as she glanced to Trellus. (Fort 15) "Not without water, friend..not in this heat.." She takes a drink and offers the nearly full flask to anyone else in the party who may want it before slinging the flask strap over her shoulder to carry. She nods and looks to Gilan and Trellus, and Anuk who seem to be wary of her. "Ah..I forget my manners at times..My name is Liana.." She smiles to each member of the group and she arched a brow at the little gnome who approached at last and the half orc whom is a bit of a surprise to see out here as well and wonders what he is dragging behind him, but Jake seems friendly enough. She offers her hand in greeting to any who would accept.
(OOC: Okay, need to check something here. I am very new to the 3.5 edition and how the rolls are done. Im not sure if I made my fort roll or not or if I need to add damage. If anyone could help me out with rolls and ect, Id appreciate it..thanx. Im not sure when or what I need to roll..yikes. Also, what is a Skiff? Sorry for the interruption )
Jake Wednesday November 12th, 2003 7:12:12 PM
"Ma'am," Jake says, taking her hand when she offers it and kissing it with all the rustic courtesy he can muster. "Such generousity as givin' your water says that you, ma'am, are a truly kind soul. Pardon mah friends for their words, ah am sure we all are a bit on tha edge, aftah so many days in tha plains. Please, accept mah apologies. Perhaps we should stop for a water break and get to know each other?" He smiles, his dark eyes very welcoming... (A skiff is a boat floating on the grass that we pull along behind us.)
(ADM Carla: Doesn't Jake have Endure Elements? See post for Gilan Nov. 5/03.))
Flea (Endure Elements) d20+6=7 d20+10=17 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 7:24:52 PM
Flea accepts Liana's hand, then moves aside as the rest of the pack make their introductions. She overhears the conversation between Giland and Trellus, and decides to walk just a little in advance of the group keeping her eyes peeled for anything of interest. (Spot=7, Search=17)
ADM Carla "I'll Follow the Sun" Wednesday November 12th, 2003 8:27:23 PM
As Liana makes her introductions,and shares her precious water, Jake presses his advantage. The fighter is in a feverish state, but not from the sun! Anuk assists Grymash but the effort costs him, until Trellus' divine intervention. Afterwards the cleric, in conversation with Gilan, discuss the significance of the remains spotted along the trail.. Flea scans the landscape of sand and rocks under the vast sky.
Below, in a large bowl shaped depression is a sight beyond comprehension. Great piles of bones littered over the field. Huge bones that could only be from the Great Wyrms that sometimes darken the sky of this arid desert land. There are bones of other creatures as well. In the center of the field is the biggest pile of bones. It forms a nest of sorts around a monstrous cocoon. Glowing opalascent under the glare of the sun, and spanning some 100 ft. the silky case is an awesome sight.
Here and there, groups of dark figures, like ants with a prize far too large for them, move about the bone-yard as if to a common purpose.
From the top of the bluff, it is a 20 ft. drop. Liana leads the group towards a narrow path which seems the only way down. It is a treacherously steep, narrow little path, about 7-10 inches wide that appears to have been made by child-sized feet.
(OOC: Using the path requires a Balance Check DC 10. Fail by more then 5, take 1d6 dmg. otherwise Reflex Save DC 15 to catch yourself and make it successfully to the bottom.)
Grymash d20+9=15 d20+9=26 d20+3=5 d20+3=9 d6=5 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 9:07:30 PM
(Fort save 15 verses the heat, from previous post)
Grymash looks out over the bone field. His grimacing expression changes to one of wonder. "What dis place be? Gry think it ... it... beauuttifulll!" There is a great deal of awe in his voice.
Gry drops the rope to the skiff and picks up the nearest small bone or skull within reach. He grins as he looks it over and places it next to his rapke skull in the skiff.
Gry then takes a drink of water and looks after those not enchanted with feel good in sticky hot magic. (Survival 26)
When everyone starts to make their way down into the bone field, Grymash will retrieve a quarterstaff straped to his back and use it for leverage, like a walking stick. (Balance check 5, Dex check 9, failed twice)
As hard as Grymash tries, his big feet are just too big for the little trail down the slope. Again, Gry does a header down the slope and rolls to a stop once reaching the bottom. (5 points of damage) Gry isnt a happy camper. The angry half-orc quickly jumps to his feet. His growls are mixed with orcish cursing garbled by gravel. Grymash hurridly paces back and forth trying to calm down. (Down 10 hitpoints.)
Liana d20+4=9 d20+4=21 d20+4=14 Wednesday November 12th, 2003 11:37:43 PM
She merely arches a brow to Jake, amusement and intigue seen in her bright green gaze as she picks up her backpack and shrugs it over her shoulders once more. "There will be time later..for now, follow me.." She glances to the others breifly and turns to lead them down the small path..her face is flushed by more than just the sun as she uses her staff to pick her way down the steep trail,(balance check 9) where she slips on the loose rock beneath her feet but catches herself and regains her footing quite deftly.(reflex check 21)She cringes a bit as the half-orc slides most ungracefully down the path. She keeps an eye out for anything unusual as she makes her way to the bottom, waiting for the others to join her.(search 14)
Flea (Endure Elements) d20+10=19 Thursday November 13th, 2003 12:08:04 AM
After admiring the dramatic view, Flea skips down the path after Liana. She has no difficulty whatsoever on the narrow track (Balance=19). She winces when the half-orc takes a header.
"This is becoming a habit with you, Gry," she volunteers unhelpfully.
Trellus (endure elements, guidance) d20-4=2 d20+1=5 d6=2 d8+1=5 Thursday November 13th, 2003 9:09:32 AM
Trellus can only share a look with Gilan and theatrically roll his eyes as Jake makes his waxed pick on Liana.
His humor lasts until he sees what awaits them. "Dudes," he breathes in an awed voice, "what comes out of THAT?"
The trail Liana leads them to is very small. Very small. Seeing Gry's graceful handling of the descent doesn't help the cleric's confidence either.
Trellus murmurs a quick spell, Domi, guide my steps, and starts down. (cast Guidance, +1 on that Balance check)
He takes about 2 steps before missing the path, overcompensating, and tumbling down the slope like a drunken merchant. (Balance- 2, Relflex- 5. yikes. 2hp damage)
At the end of his inglorious descent, Trellus can only hang his head and sigh in heavy embarrassment. He reaches into his front pounch, and pulls out two vials. He hands one to Grymash and keeps the other.
"Here Gry, its a healing drink." Trellus raises his potion in a mock salute. "To level paths."
The cleric drinks it down. CLW - 5 hp.
Gilan d20=9 d20+8=12 d4+8=12 d4=4 d20+13=30 d20+2=15 d8+1=3 Thursday November 13th, 2003 3:34:21 PM
Gilan continues to follow along with the rest. With a sideways glance at Trellus he smiles. "Yeah the heat has not been too bad." He can feel himself starting to overheat (fort 12) and slows down some as he takes another drink of water.
He watches as Trellus moves up beside Jake and the new girl. He shakes his head again as Jake makes a move on her and smiles, trying hard not to laugh. He tries his best to keep an eye on the others for signs of fatigue and heat to set in on them (survival 30).
With a shrug he moves up toward Trellus, Jake and Liana. Taking her hand he shakes it gently and smiles. "My name is Gilan...thanks for the offer of water." He does not take any seeing as he has his own but it was a nice gesture on her part. He moves out when the rest start moving and takes his time.
When they reach the area that Liana wanted to show them he cannot help but stare in awe. It is a beautiful sight until she shows them the path they must take and he swallows hard. It is even worse when he sees both Trellus and Grymash take a spill to the paths bottom. "May nature preserve me." He starts down the path himself, trying to take it easy (balance 15) he somhow balances himself good enough to make it to the bottom with no incident.
He makes his way to Trellus and Grymash offering them a clw potion if they want it. "I have an extra one if you want it?" He takes one himself and down the elixir, feeling the flood of healing enter his body (heal 3).
Jake (Endure Elements) d20-6=-2 d20+3=6 d6=2 Thursday November 13th, 2003 4:13:20 PM
Jake, carrying heavy bags and a number of things (which makes my balance check crap...) tumbles down the dirt most ungracefully. He gets up immediately, brushing the sand and dirt off himself. "Not hurt a bit," he states and smiles. Indeed, he is a pretty hardy guy. (6 damage total so far, I forgot he had Endure ELements) "This place is kinda nice," he admits, looking around as he slings his pack back on.
ADM Carla "If I Fell" Thursday November 13th, 2003 8:30:50 PM
Most of the group make it to the bottom in one piece. Jake, Trellus, and Grymash suffer some scrapes and bruises, while Liana slips on a little scree, but catches herself. Gilan walks the narrow path with care, while Flea's small size proves an asset.
The half-orc and druid check the status of the individual pack members, while tonic is passed out to those who need it.
Waiting for Anuk to attempt the descent, there is no escape from the sun (Fortitude Check DC 16, or take 1d4 non-lethal damage. +4 to Fort. due to combined efforts of Gilan and Gry, and standing still) The sun glistens off the pale buff coloured rocks, and the multitude of white, bleached, bones. Big bones and little bones. Bones of the Great Moths, of Rapke and Bounder. There are even bones from the races of the Plains, Manfri and Men!
The individuals milling about the glistening cocoon pay no attention to the activities of the group.
Without warning a tiny spider-like hand sqeezes the great bicep of the half-orc, and Gry hears a familiar chuckle. A tiny ancient man with a black weathered face makes his presence known. It is the Manfri from Rattledam! The Mankife smiles his familiar toothless smile, his eyes bright. He leans heavily on his staff and fixes you all with his intelligent gaze full of wisdom and grace. He gets up on tip toes again, and places his wrinkled hand, palm down, on Gry's chest, "Talki fresal, dondit liki" he intones, and you all feel a thrill course through your bodies.
(OOC: This is the last (and 5th) post for the week. Next one is Sunday P.M for Monday response. Anuk. Come on down! Don't forget to roll your Balance check.)
Trellus (endure elements) Friday November 14th, 2003 10:55:00 AM
The cleric bows respectfully to the Manfri.
"Many shadows, teacher," he replies. "The land, my life."
Trellus sends a 'heart tickle' to the venerable manfri and his friends.
"What is this place?" he asks. "And what are we to do here?"
Grymash d20+9=19 Friday November 14th, 2003 2:24:44 PM
(Fort save 19)
Grymash takes the potion from Trellus and is about to drink it when the elderly manfri arrives. His sudden touch almost made Gry jump out of his skin.
"UHhhhhh!!" is all Gry can say. He stands frozen in place like a slack-jawed statue.
Gilan d20+10=20 Friday November 14th, 2003 3:57:30 PM
Gilan watches as Gry almost jumps out of his skin and hides a smile. With a bow of respect he smiles to the Manfri. "It is good to see you again teacher." He gives him the palm over fist over heart sign and sends out a heart touch to everyone present.
With a glance around he takes in the sights and holds his breathe for a minute before speaking. "Is this a holy place? I have read of them in books about places that animals congregate to die...they are sometimes called holy places." He cannot help but wonder what it is that they will be witnessing here.
Liana d20+3=15 d4=4 Friday November 14th, 2003 6:22:59 PM
She begins to feel the heat as she stands there to wait for the others. (dam 4)She takes another drink of water as the Manfri approaches. She gives a weary smile and in turn sends a heart touch to the others..in case they had any doubts and leans upon her staff for extra support.
Jake Saturday November 15th, 2003 6:41:43 AM
For some reason, ever since he first met the little guys and crashed that party of theirs, Jake has had the urge to adopt the guys as his little brothers, and play tricks upon them, clap them on the back in greeting, or see if they can get drunk. As it is, though, it seems like the others always treat them with respect, and Jake doesn't want to push his way around... "Hey, little dude," he casually drawls, taking a page from Trellus and using that word he's fond of. "How's it weavin?"
Flea (Endure Elements) Saturday November 15th, 2003 9:08:57 AM
The gnome makes a fist with one hand, placing it over her heart and covers it with the other. Bowing her head slightly, she repeats her vow to protect the plains.
Flea looks sideways at Liana, when she experiences the familiar sensation of the heart tickle, but with a different nuance, coming from the newcomer's direction.
Liana Saturday November 15th, 2003 12:36:36 PM
Liana says nothing but gives Flea a wink upon her sideways glance before ruturning her attention to the Manfri.
((ooc: was I supposed to make a fort check earlier in my last post?)
(ADM Carla: You're posting just fine, Kelly. If you forget a roll, I'll let you know or roll for you!)
Anuk (endure elements) d20+4=17 Saturday November 15th, 2003 4:39:14 PM
As Trellus' spell washes over him, Anuk feels a cooling, comfortable sensation. "Thank you, Trellus. Many shadows."
When the group reaches the lip of the bluff, Anuk watches the others alternately walk or slide to the bottom. After everyone completes the descent, Anuk follows, stepping easily to the along the trail and reaching the bottom in one piece (balance 17).
The bright sun shining off the bones makes Anuk put up his gloved hand to shade his eyes. He stares at the mound and the cocoon nestled in its center. He turns to Gilan. "According to the orb, is this what we've been looking for?"
He looks back up the trail they descended. To no one in particular he says, "Think the skiff is safe up there? It's got most of our water." He's still wondering if someone should go back and look after it when the mankife shows up. He stifles a laugh at Gry's reaction and then feels the mankifes "touch" go through him. He's still wondering what it means when, almost as surprising, he feel's the newcomer's heart touch. Any reservations he may still have felt about her start melting away.
"Greetings," he says to the manfri, politely bowing.
Then, turning to the newcomer, he says, "I'm Anuk. Thank you for coming with us. I'm not sure I caught your name." He returns her heart touch, and wonders if she might be a stranger to the plains like he is.
(OOC: Sorry about dropping out there. We had a major windstorm come through our town the other night and it took out our power for the evening. I spent the next couple of nights helping get fences and roofs repaired in the neighborhood and just plain forgot to post.)
ADM Carla "From Me to You" Sunday November 16th, 2003 10:16:49 PM
Respect is shown for the Mankife, that tiny ancient wiseman from the plains. A few discrete questions are asked. The ranger, Anuk, carefully makes his way down the hillside to join the pack. The sign of acknowledgement, the 'heart touch' is sent out as confirmation that you are all there as part of the Second Circle, and therefore pledged to protect the secrets of the plains. Protect with force if required, the secrets you are even now just witnessing.
The Mankife goes to each and with a look of utmost kindness and warmth, he places his tiny hand on your chest and utters the words of the vow, "Talki fresal, dondit liki", the land, my life. The air crackles with magic, and then all is calm. The little man brings his staff down hard on the ground and four Manfri appear. He barks in the gutteral language of the people of the plains, pointing up at the skiff left precariously close to the edge, at the top of the bluff. The four head off up the narrow path at a trot.
When Liana turns to Flea, and gives her a wink, she sees a hand emerge from the rock wall, just behind the gnome. The hand pushes aside what looks like the face of the hill as if parting a curtain and the thin dark form of the Walker, Mordri emerges. "Come along now, " he chides, "isn't it time you all got out of the sun?"
Black, as you know him, then speaks a few words of that incomprehensible language. His tone towards the Mankife is full of respect. The little man's head bobs up and down, as he grins his toothless grin before entering the cave made visible by the walker. Black continues to hold the curtain back, gazing expectantly at the pack.
(Party's initiative.)
Trellus Monday November 17th, 2003 11:26:15 AM
Trellus' eyes widen slightly as Liana sends out the heart touch. He grins at Gilan. "Well, I guess she's shady, then."
When Black appears out of nowhere, the cleric's grin breaks into a wide smile. "I think I could stand to get out of the sun."
He steps into the shelter.
"Is Sterlin with you?" he asks the Walker.
Anuk Monday November 17th, 2003 3:46:56 PM
At the appearance of the walker, Anuk turns to Gilan and says with a smile, "Umm...nevermind. I'm pretty sure this is the place."
He gratefully accepts the offer to step out of the sunlight and enters the cave as well, greeting Black with a friendly "Well, hello again." as he does so.
Gilan Monday November 17th, 2003 4:48:50 PM
Gilan shakes his head and smiles at the heart-touch. He had really not expected much less, after all they had been through. With the request he is just about ready to take out the orb again when Black shows up. He forget about it knowing that this must be the place.
"Hello again Black." He gives him the salute and oath of fist over heart with open palm over that. "The land, my life." He sends out the heart-touch to everyone present as he smiles.
With another bow to Black he enters the cave, welcoming the shade and cool. He steps off to the side and waits for everyone to enter.
Jake d20+4=7 Monday November 17th, 2003 4:56:25 PM
Jake trudges into the cave and takes off his hat. He looks for somewhere to sit. "Phew...thank y'all for the respite." He bows uncertainly to their hosts. He looks around the cave...(spot 7.)
Grymash d20-3=12 Monday November 17th, 2003 6:34:07 PM
The still slack-jawed Grymash spots Black suddenly appear. He turns his eyes up into sky and shakes his head in confusion and mild perturbation. He brings his gaze back down to the ancient manfri and begins to speak. Gry pauses in mid-utterance of his first few syllables as he re-thinks how to word his question to his teacher. (Int. check 12, not bad for Gry)
Speaking in the most respectful way he knows, Gry tries to mutter the creed in the manfri language. "Uhhhh ... TAlkie frEEsal, uhhh, donKey likEy ... uhh yeah! Could ya teach Gry dat "pop out of no wheres" trick?"
Gry will enter the cave with the rest as soon as everyone is inside.
Flea d20+6=26 Monday November 17th, 2003 6:56:36 PM
The gnome ducks into the tunnel, glad to be out of the hot sun. Her eyes quickly grow accustomed to the dim light, as she looks about with quick eyes. (Spot=26, nat. 20) Flea stays as far away as possible from the plains man.
Liana Monday November 17th, 2003 7:22:51 PM
She is glad to step out of the sun and enters the cave behind Flea. "Much better in here.." She takes a look around as her eyes adjust to the lighting of the cave. She turns to Anuk and the others with a small smile. "My name is Liana.." She then arches a thin brow when Trellus calls her 'shady' but says nothing and returns her attention to the one who offered them shelter. "Thank you.."
ADM Carla "Here, There and Everywhere" Monday November 17th, 2003 8:11:50 PM
The Mankife stops and spins around. He looks very serious as the great half-orc makes his simple request. The tiny man works his way back to the tunnel entrance and stops in front of Mountainback. He lets his stick fall, and on tip toes reaches both his hands up to the big fellow. As Gry stoops, the ancient Manfri places a hand on either side of his great head, and pulls it down until their foreheads touch. The cleric of domi, fighter, and barbarian hears words echo in his head "Talki fresal, dondit liki" as the dark, pupil-less eyes gaze into his.
Meanwhile, Mordri smiles at Trellus, showing his red-stained toothy grin. Gilan notices the orb is cool to the touch, and does not urge one way or another. He pockets the compass to focus on the task at hand.
Flea points out to Jake the low table near the entrance. It is piled high with flat, yellow coloured bisquits. There are flakes of some sort of red and green grass throughout. There is a small jug on the table, and a very large clay vessel beside the table. Small clay bowls surround the large vessel. Inside the jug and vessel are fragrant liquids. They watch, as Black picks out a bowl, dips it into the large clay vessel, then adds a tiny libation from the jug.
(Party's initiative.)
Grymash Monday November 17th, 2003 10:03:10 PM
Inside the amply-sized brain pan of Grymash, there is plenty of room for echo. The words seem to weave themselves into his soul. Visions of the land race through his mind. Night and day pass by so quickly that the streaking light of the sun's harsh rays strobes his minds eye to near blindness.
Suddenly, all is calm and Grymash finds himself alone gazing upon a land he doesn't recognize. A low rumble from below his feet greets Grymash with a sudden rush of grass shooting up from the earth. Gry is quickly engulfed by the grass. It wraps and entangles his body, pulling him deeper and deeper into an abyss of green. Gry tries to scream, but the grass invades his mouth and lungs as it completely takes him over.
All goes black. All his senses are muted. No touch, no taste, no sight ... but Grymash hears something. It starts low and begins to grow. The sound of riping and tearing, chomping and chewing, biting and nawing. The constant smacking, and chewing chewing chewing licking and scraping ... louder and louder, growing and growing. The chaos becomes to great for Grymash to bear. Grymash screams a piercing cry. The grasses part and the light streams down as countless swarms of vermin spring forth from his mouth and spiral into the sky like a snake.
Grymash awakens to find himself stooped down staring into the eyes of the Mankife. The words, with perfect pronouncation, sing from his lips, "Talki fresal, dondit liki ... Talki fresal, dondit liki ... Talki fresal, dondit liki."
Grymash falls back onto his rear and sits there at the entrance with a wildly dazed expression. The only words he can utter after he stops saying the Mankife's creed is, "WHOOOAAAAA!!!"
Grymash will later return Trellus' cure potion sinse it seems to be no longer necessary.
Jake Tuesday November 18th, 2003 3:35:50 AM
Jake glances at Gry, wondering what the heck is going on in that big, empty head of his. The luvable lug. He sits down next to the table and glances over at 'Black'. "Hey, are these for us to eat? Do ya want some of our water?" After listening to the responses, he gets comfortable (eating a biscuit if available), and asks, "Couldja tell us about this part of the plains?"
Liana Tuesday November 18th, 2003 10:20:51 AM
She listens and watches everyone around her not saying much at all..after all she is the newcomer here. She does however wonder what the Mankife does to the half-orc to make him act in that manner. She waits to see what happens next.
Gilan Tuesday November 18th, 2003 4:55:32 PM
Gilan takes a seat in the cave a little distant from the others and takes the time to cool down. He watches the others as they go about thier own business and then closes his eyes.
He is still listening to anything that may be said around him. He figures that they must have reached thier destination, after all the compass is quiet.
Flea Tuesday November 18th, 2003 5:44:42 PM
As the gnome watches the walker help himself to victuals, her stomache growls. She overcomes her distrust of the tall man with the disconcerting red teeth, and approaches the table. With a gesture she will enquire if she is entitled.
If the food is for them, Flea will help herself to one of the bisquits. She will immitate the the walker and dip a bowl in the large vessel, taste it, then add a little of the liquid from the small jug.
Anuk Tuesday November 18th, 2003 6:40:16 PM
Anuk finds a place to sit in the cave and is happy just to sit and rest. If victuals are offered, he accepts. He eats and drinks politely, despite his deepening hunger following the pack's travails in the heat.
When a moment presents itself, he questions Black. "Umm...sir...what's going to be coming out of that thing resting on the bones out there? And what brings the bones here? Are we here to observe? To fight? I mean, we are certainly learning, but I tend to feel a bit unprepared each time we encounter something on this trek."
Trellus Tuesday November 18th, 2003 8:51:35 PM
The cleric takes the potion back from Grymash, and gives the half-orc a long look. "You shady, Gry?"
Trellus notes that Grymash has been doing some totally twisted stuff ever since the pick with the Moth way back when. He resolves to keep a closer eye on his friend.
Sitting at the table, the young man follows Black's lead, grabs a bowlful of this and a dab of that, and helps himself.
ADM Carla "Tell Me Why" Tuesday November 18th, 2003 9:21:48 PM
Grymash has an epiphany, while Liana observes the pack, and Gilan and Anuk chill. Jake, Flea, and Trellus sample the fare.
The bisquit, made from wheat grass, is a bit dry, but has a nice flavour and fills the stomach in a satisfying way. The liquid from the large container is the pale yellow-green of lemon grass and is both sweet and sour. It quenches the thirst. The fluid in the smaller jug seems to add a little 'kick'.
Black looks at Trellus and Anuk, "so many questions" he says. Then he says a few words to the Mankife who starts to laugh a funny barking sound, quickly joined by the loud gaffaws of the walker.
Wiping the tears that came with the laughter from his eye, Black walks up behind the newcomer, Liana, and places a dark hand firmly on her shoulder, before speaking. "This one was a member of a pack on a quest similar to yours. However, her pack was killed off before they could witness the complete cycle." He looks at each member of the Bloodpack with solemn eyes. "She has seen some terrible things!" The walker gives Liana's shoulder a supportive squeeze before letting go, and continuing, "Malafret has sent her to join the Bloodpack and complete the mission. You need her, and she needs you."
(Party's initiative.)
Grymash Wednesday November 19th, 2003 12:49:26 PM
Grymash quickly sobers from his epiphany. "WHAT!" barks Grymash uncontrolably. He slowly rises from the cave floor and tries to regain a little of his composure. With a greater strangle-hold on his temper Grymash continues what he was trying to say. "What Gry means is ... Gry not smart as most but me know dis not right." Turning a compasionate eye towards Liana, "Why Liana pack an Milo die for ..." glaring back at Black, "to learn piggies are rapke!! Dis lesson no helpin' them now! Gargul no cares they know bout piggies. Ah lesson Black could have taught wit words an not wit lifes of packs. Young lifes cut down before their time. Dis not right! Gry think Milo be glad to know uh piggie ate him," Grymash says sarcastically.
Turning his back on Black, Grymash walks into the shadows of the cavern, away from the fires light and takes a seat by himself. The only features not obsured in shadow are his glassy feral eyes reflecting the flickering light of the fire.
"Do you not hear their screams. Do their voices not haunt you in the night. Don't you feel their cold touch against your skin. I do! Death is all around us. Talki fresal, dondit liki ... indeed!!
After a short pause, Grymash continues, "Gry swore ta guard land wit life ... so Gry will. If Grymash must kill ... me will kill many lifes. If me need be uh monster ... Gry be biggiest monster ta walk land. If Gry die for land, den land can have body, BUT soul is Gargul's, land not have dat. For all dat Grymash Mountainback need only truth ta know. Can ya tell da truth before ya feed Bloodpack ta land. So we know why pack has ta die!" Grymash bows his head, "Gry need ta pray ta Gargul now."
Trellus Wednesday November 19th, 2003 1:59:55 PM
Trellus looks up sharply as Grymash launches into his tirade. The cleric makes a move to cut off the half orc, but stops.
Because Gry is right. Milo is dead, Sterlin has gone Walker, and Liana's whole pack got their thread cut for nothing more than three or four sentences in Anuk's journal.
The young cleric's eyes flick between Black and Mankife, full of the same accusations his friend just vocalized.
Gilan Wednesday November 19th, 2003 4:21:52 PM
Gilan glances to Gry as he shoots into his tirade and finds himself wondering the same things. Was it really neccessary for them to find out these things in such a manner. He glances to the Manfri and the Walker to see what they will say on this.
"Is this also part of our test for the circle?" He cannot but wonder if he has made a wise choice in this now. The loss of two of his best friends for the information that they have learned...it does not seem worth it to him. "What are we to gain from this...feelings of hate for the rapke...maybe a feeling of contempt for that which we are to join? I don't know......it just seems a waste to me and I have doubts." He sems at a loss and seeking answers for the loss of friends. He is searching to see if he has done the right thing.
Jake Wednesday November 19th, 2003 8:10:44 PM
Jake sighs, and wipes his head. He's going to try a course of action that might be dangerous with Grymash...in fact, is very dangerous with Grymash (in Jake's mind), but the big lug has been continually bad tempered since Milo died, and shows no sign of improving, only blaming everyone they meet. "So, what you're saying, Gry, is we got to see a miracle of the plains and we protected those creatures from dying and breaking the cycle, we helped the plains go on, and you make it sound like we did nothing. Heck, what do you want them to do, Gry? Point at a bunch of barons and have you attack 'em? "Sounds to me like you need to step back and think about what we're doing. We all knew it's a risk to go out into the Plains, and we're all clueless about what they really are. Life has meaning, yes, and death has meaning as well. I hate saying this to a cleric, but ya gotta have faith, brother. And continue on, learnin'."
Flea Wednesday November 19th, 2003 8:24:09 PM
Flea listens as Grymash confronts the walker, and her jaw drops open when Gilan voices his discontent. If we get out of this alive, and make it back to Rattledam, I'm catching the first trading barge out of here! she thinks to herself.
The gnome reaches her hand to her neck to scratch an old bug bite, and accidently pulls the pale blue ribbon out of her hair. She stares at the now faded silk, and then at her anguished friend, her eyes glassy with unshed tears.
Anuk Wednesday November 19th, 2003 8:52:43 PM
Anuk listens as Black and the Manfri seem to laugh off his questions. He's thinking what to say next when Gry explodes with fury. Anuk thinks he knows just how much Gry is holding back, because his anger is expressed only verbally, and no blood has been shed here.
As Gry retreats to the corner and silence fills the room, Anuk turns to Black again. "We've continually asked for help in understanding what we've accepted by taking the oath, yet you once again evade a direct answer. Why?!"
ADM Carla "We Can Work It Out" Wednesday November 19th, 2003 10:48:12 PM
Grymash has a crisis, and is joined in pressing his issues by Gilan and Anuk who give voice to their frustration. Trellus, Flea, and Liana look on in silence, keeping their thoughts and feelings to themselves. Jake makes a profession of faith.
Black moves in on the half-orc. "Do I not hear screams? Am I not haunted? Do I not feel their pain?" He stares but his eyes are unseeing. His mind somewhere else. Turning to Anuk and Gilan, "Am I to persuade you to trust me with proofs? And what proofs are enough?" He gives the ranger and the druid a hard look, "I have had a hard life, and long. Lonely men are we, Grasswalkers of the plains, hunters of the Enemy and their servants."
The Mankife grasps his stick with both hands and leans heavily on it, his eyes on Mordri, as the Plainstrider closes his eyes.
Break the ring, disturb the cycle, ruin the circle of life. Unnatural beasts and evil men bring conflict, struggle and strife.
All that is gold does not glitter, wanderers may not be lost. Stong men do not wither, deep roots are safe from the frost.
They are only nature's pawn, prairie meat to bounder spawn, Bounder do twin rapke make, rapke to great moth awake.
From destruction life is woken, as wild things with love are tended. Renew that which once was broken, 'til the circle is full mended.
With both hands on Gilan's shoulders, and looking the druid full in the face, the walker gently says, "For my part, I forgive your doubt." He then turns away from the group and walks deeper into the tunnel, disappearing into the shadows.
(Party's initiative.)
Liana Thursday November 20th, 2003 12:21:58 AM
She cannot help but feel compassion for Grymash and the others. She cannot find words when he looks at her but knows full well the pain they feel..she too feels it for her own pack who died for this cause, but she also knows that they must not give up. She lets them all gather their own thoughts as she takes a seat and lets the days events wash over her.
Trellus (endure elements) Thursday November 20th, 2003 1:43:16 PM
Trellus' head drops at Black's words.
"We ask questions, and you answer with riddles," he softly replies to the retreating figure.
Looking at the cup in his hand, the young man takes a long drink, followed by a deep cleansing breath. The pack is but a pawn in this game. Perhaps, someday, one of these beaters will be nice enough to tell them the rules.
He glances from Grymash to Jake. When we get alone, we need to have a talk
Facing the manfri, Trellus tries another question. "The compass pointed us here. We have come. What is this place? And what is our task?"
Grymash d20+6=21 Thursday November 20th, 2003 2:10:24 PM
The low, gutteral words of orcish prayers are suddenly interrupted by silence as the half-orc sits in the darkness. A deep, heavily tormented voice replies to a comment directed at the barbarian. "what gry think? jake want know what gry ... think?" To the left of Grymash, the holy symbol from his buckler begins to faintly glow in the darkness. The illumination reveils the faint visage of a grimacing half-orc. His huge chest heaves hot breath through a mouth of nashing tusks and teeth. Almost immediately, Grymash lunges at Jake with a ferocity most never live to tell about. But Gry suddenly stops before reaching his packmate. "GRRRROOOWWLLL ... ORCS NO THINK, JAKE! ORCS JUST FIGHT ..." Grymash struggles to step back and calm down. His effort at restraint, taking all his willpower, fatigues Grymash into a breathless wreck. In a lower and calmer voice Grymash continues his statment, " ... orcs just kill!" (Will Save 21)
His muscles still taut and swollen with blood, Grymash pauses for a second as he attempts to catch his breath. He looks back at Jake and then the rest of his pack. Grymash then hangs his head in shame and asks for Jake's forgiveness. "Sorry Jake ... but if me was not half-breed, Gry would have hurt Jake ... sorry Jake!"
Grymash slumps over and grabs his head in pain. "Uhhhh... du pain, Gry head splitin' in two!" After a short moment Grymash stands upright again and he slowly combs down his wild hair with his hands. "See what rage is in Gry ... rage burns wit orc-blood. Life an death means nuthin' ta orcs. Mal, in orc speak, mean Life an Death, just one word. Orc make no difference btween da two. Gry born with same mind. Human mind too an both sides in Gry always fightin. Gry get confused wit me feelin's: mad, happy, sad. Gry at times be glad Milo gone. Milo small an weak ... milo make Gry angry sometimes. Then Gry miss Milo, an it hurt da strange hurt ... da hurt from inside. Make me confused. Gry pray ta Gargul ta give Milo back, but Gargul wont! Then we walk around plains an kill piggie bounder rapke things, an walk an walk an walk long time. Pack find Mankife, an Black again in weird bone place. Liana pack die and Gry not know why. Everyone talk bout stuff that make no sense ta Gry. Ya think me supposed ta know but me not. Gry just follow pack an fight for pack. Me kill barons, an rapke, an bounders an piggies ... make no difference to Gry. Me try an do good for pack an teachers. But Gry still no understand why. Gry want ta do good... really good." The rest of what Grymash says turns into babble as his words mix with orc. The frustration of the situation has just gotten too much for his fragile mind to handle.
With sorrow in his eyes, Grymash pleads with the Mankife, "Please ... can Mankife make Grymash understand. Me want ta soo bad."
Anuk Thursday November 20th, 2003 2:24:58 PM
Watching Black disappear into the shadows, Anuk calls after him, "When have our actions ever shown anything but trust in you?! When have we deviated from our oath?!! When will you show trust in us?!!! We're not asking for help, only for understanding!!"
Frustrated, he slumps to the floor and leans against the nearest wall with his arms folded across his chest. Stewing, he thinks of his father for the first time in many months. The scene of his father's death plays in his mind;locked in a battle of magic and wills with another, Anuk rushing in to help only to discover too late that his help was actually an interference--that it caused his father's death instead of saving his life. Lost in these thoughts, he slowly removes his glove and stares at the withered, skeletal hand.
If I had only known beforehand, he would be alive today and I would be home. I would be whole. We only ask for understanding, so we might do what we've sworn to do as best we can. Why is that so wrong to these people? Why is the death of our friends just an object lesson to them?!"
Gilan Thursday November 20th, 2003 5:06:31 PM
Gilan glances to Black as he speaks and he figures out a few things, but is still not sure. When Black says that he forgives him his doubts he feels somewhat better. Maybe Black has his own doubts about taking them into this mess.
Looking down at the floor he shakes his head. "No...I will not doubt my choice in taking on this path. I owe it to the memory of Milo, Sterlin and all those that have died doing what we are." With a last thought on the path he had been taking just a few minutes ago he cannot believe it. "I lost my faith in the cycle and Mother Wold...if only for a second and that will never happen again."
He then gets himself some of the food and drink that was set out for all earlier. He will not let the pack down...not ever again.
Flea Thursday November 20th, 2003 5:56:42 PM
The gnome watches and listens. She is a little surprised by the emotional outbursts from her pack mates and Black. When Anuk calls out in frustration, Flea goes over and stands by his slumped form. "'Nuk!" she says in a whisper, bending down a little to look in his face, "I don't think he has all the answers. He's no leader. He's just a plainstrider, a walker, a ranger...like you!"
Flea sits down and signals to Grymash to come sit beside her. She puts her finger into the dirt on the tunnel floor and draws a circle. "I'm not very good when it comes to nature and animals, but I think I've figured a few things out." The gnome draws a lumpy bump at the top of the circle, "this is a piggie, what he called 'prairie meat'. I guess in nature they turn into wild bounders" she draws a blob with spikey teeth, "and they turn into wild rapke" she adds a thin stick figure like a lizard. Further along the circle, she draws a thing with wings, "and the wild rapke can become a moth". Flea looks up at Grymash, there are still some empty spaces along the circle, "I'm guessing that big bump out there in the graveyard is a Wyrm that's gonna turn into something really big! Do any of you know what is bigger than a moth?"
Jake Thursday November 20th, 2003 11:10:24 PM
Jake looks at his big half-orc buddy. He leans over and pats him on the back as the guy breaks down almost. "Just let it weave, dude." He offers him a biscuit. "Ah know you're havin' a difficult time, jus' follow and try yer best."
ADM Carla "Nowhere Man" Thursday November 20th, 2003 11:39:31 PM
Liana watches silently as her new pack struggles with the riddles left by the enigmatic Black. Trellus, Grymash, and Anuk all nurse a little resentment. Gilan grapples between his dedication to his friends and his vocation. Flea repeats the cycle as she knows it, as much for her own reassurance as to help the half-orc. Jake stays cool.
While Anuk stares at his shrivelled hand, the Mankife weaves his way over to the ranger. With one hand on his staff, he reaches out to grip Anuk's wasted limb in his own tiny spider-like one. Anuk feels a growing sensation of discomfort in the hand, but a thrill of energy surges through his body. As he meets the manfri's gaze, he reads in the dark eyes an offer of very powerful magic. The Mankife lets go of Anuk's hand. Bringing the hand holding the staff to his heart, he then covers it with his other hand, but he remains silent.
With a look, the Mankife urges the ranger to rise and follow him as he moves down the tunnel in the direction previously taken by Mordri. The little black man waves his arms and natters on in his own language, urging the tired adventurers to follow him as he sends out the 'heart touch' in order that the mushrooms lining the tunnel might glow, and illuminate the path.
As the tiny man enters a small side chamber, each pack member feels a bittersweet thrill as someone hidden in the shadows of the room returns the manfri's signal.
(Party's initiative. Last ADM post until Sunday P.M.)
Liana Friday November 21st, 2003 1:12:45 AM
It is best she doesn't say anything and earn her trust slowly. As they will begin to realize she is not one to speak much and appears to be a quiet reserved type. She is as confused about whats going on as are the rest..perhaps more so. She eats a biscuit and partakes in the drink set out for them before pulling herself up with help of her staff and following the others down the dark tunnel.
Grymash d20-3=2 d20-3=11 d20-3=6 d20+2=14 Friday November 21st, 2003 12:35:12 PM
Grymash crouches down next to Flea and watches attentively. As she re-tells the story of their travels, Grymash nods as he remembers each thing she touches on. Gry isnt sure what is meant by the circle. At first he thinks it's the path they've been following all this time. Or that it's the same shape of the icy orb the pack uses to find our way around. One thing is certain, Grymash accepts the idea that prairie pigs become bounders, and bounders become rapke, and rapke become moths.
A devilish toothy grin forms on Grymash face as he turns to face Flea. He reaches back to his belt pouch and pulls out a crudely carved piece of bone. It doesnt have much resemblence to anyone particular (not much detail) but it's easily a humanoid shape. The bone carving is partially wrapped with dry grass (mimicing clothing) and a bit of Gry's hair tied to the head.
Grymash then takes the tiny bone sculpture and lightly taps on Flea's drawing of a rapke. "Heee hee hee, Flea forgot ta draw Gry beatin' rapke ... chop, chop, chop, chop!" Grymash continues to snicker as he then takes his toy and start to pound on the bounder, "Gry get bounder too, hee hee hee!" Then suddenly he pauses as a spark goes off in his head, an idea. He places his mini-Gry over the prairie pig and drops it. "Gry get it ... rapke come from bounder an bounder from piggie ... if Gry kill all piggies, dat mean no more bounder an rapke!!! Did Flea know dat? Gry understand!!" A very awestruck half-orc sits there amazed at his discovery.
Gry takes his bone toy and gives it a little toss in the air and catches it in celebration. "Look ... Gry figure it out. All pack has ta do is .... uhh, ohh biscuts!" Grymash takes two hands full of biscuts and starts chomping away. "Hmmmmm, duhh bu goota, hmmm!"
When the Mankife directs the pack to follow, Grymash doesnt hesitate. Though he takes more biscuts with him.
Trellus Friday November 21st, 2003 12:42:22 PM
Trellus slowly rises and approaches Grymash, clasping the half-orcs right forearm with his right hand. The young man looks into his friend's face and speaks calmly, gently. "None of us know what exactly is happening, or why we've got to weave this thread. Right now, all we can do is follow." Trellus pauses to let Grymash catch up. "But, I promise you. We won't forget Milo. Or Sterlin. And I will make sure you understand everything, just as soon as I understand it myself. I put my words on Domi's Anvil on that."
Clapping Grymash on the shoulder, Trellus turns, gathers his equipment, and follows the manfri, wondering all the which of his friends won't survive the next 'lesson'.
Entering the chamber, he sees the other figure. Now, who's this? he wonders.
Gilan Friday November 21st, 2003 4:27:20 PM
Gilan feels the weight of his decision on his shoulders keenly, but he will not turn away from it this time. No he will meet it head on.
With a nod he looks around a little as he snacks getting a feel for the place. Then the Manfri indicates that they should follow along. He does not hesitate as he has come to a decision that he can live with. He nods to the Manfri and mouths the words...Thank You.
A lot changed and happier he follows along with the rest munching on a biscuit that he almost chokes on when the answer from the dark comes. He had not expected the heart touch from the dark and it surprised him.
Jake Saturday November 22nd, 2003 2:35:23 PM
Jake chuckles at Grymash's behavior. Now he's back to normal, he thinks to himself. Following the little guy into the dark, he feels strangely tired and yawns... lately, they've been walking during the day and sleeping during the night, so being underground like this naturally makes him seem a bit off-balance. He glances over at the darkness, wondering what's there...
Anuk Sunday November 23rd, 2003 2:24:36 PM
Sighing, Anuk looks up at Flea. He smiles weakly and says, "You're right. Black doesn't know everything anymore than we do. I know that. I just wanted to feel more...prepared...this time...you know?" He watches Flea walk over to Gry and offer her explanations to him. Anuk's smile grows as the big guy sees it all begin to make some sense...sees how he can make a difference.
Just as Anuk is about to cover his hand with his glove again, the wizened Manfri ambles over and grasps it. Anuk isn't sure what to think, but a look into the mankife's eyes tells him that if he is to learn what this oath means, he'd best follow. He puts on his glove, rises, and follows the small figure through the dark passage into the next cavern, wondering what will come next.
Sterlin Sunday November 23rd, 2003 3:14:55 PM
A friend steps forward from the shadows. " Hello, bloodpack, I've missed you. "
Flea Sunday November 23rd, 2003 6:13:27 PM
"No! No! NO! Gry" cries the gnome. "We can EAT some of the piggies, but we can't break the circle!" She sighs a heavy sigh, and continues, "that teacher of yours, Malafret, said she wants us to protect each event with our lives. This changing into other things is supposed to happen!"
Flea continues to give her arguments to the the half-orc as they follow their manfri guide deeper into the tunnel. When a familiar voice comes from the shadows, she asks in a whisper, "Sterlin?"
ADM Carla "Yesterday" Sunday November 23rd, 2003 6:42:44 PM
A tired Jake, curious Liana, and supportive Trellus watch as Gry lets off a little steam on the imaginary beasts of the plains drawn by Flea. Gilan is reflective. Anuk, confused and curious, leads the pack as they follow the tiny manfri elder into a small room off the main tunnel.
Sterlin, their old pack mate, steps from the shadows. The druid smiles knowingly and explains how he made his way to this place in the company of the plainstrider as Mordri, too, steps from the shadows. Nearby, Sterlin's companion spiders knit a web. The Mankife dances and hops about, enjoying the reunion.
While the group reunites with Sterlin, several manfri enter and exit the room without a sound. A small table is set up with more of the bisquits, a smaller version of the clay pot with the tart liquid, another jug, and enough small clay cups for everyone in the room. Those who are observant will note a bench of sorts carved out of the stone along the perimeter of the room.
(OOC: Welcome back Kevin!)
Trellus (endure elements) Monday November 24th, 2003 2:49:59 PM
Trellus nods at Flea's explanation. "Right. The bounders and rapke are part of the circle, as long as they're wild. But, if the Barons get a hold of them, they twist the beastie's threads and turn them evil."
He gives Flea a grin, "now, if you can explain how the Moths become Piggies again, we'll have our circle."
Trellus' concerns evaporate at the sight of Sterlin.
"Sterlin!" he shouts joyfully. Quickly the young man steps over and gives his friend a hearty slap on the back. He happily grabs up some food and drink and quizzes the druid about his escapades.
About this point, he remembers the newcomer, Liana. Somebody should really introduce her around.
Trellus steps up. "Many Shadows. Welcome to the Bloodpack. I'm Trellus, priest of Domi. That's Grymash, priest of Gargul and a very shady guy to have on your side. Gilan, and his wasps. Gilan's a druid of the Plains. He's not as into them as Sterlin here, right dude? But he's still real helpful in the heat. Flea is our resident sneaker. Anuk's kinda quiet, but very good with that bow. And Jake, I believe you've met."
Jake Monday November 24th, 2003 2:54:34 PM
"Sterlin!" Jake can't help but grin and pat Sterlin on the back, but is too embarassed to hug his fellow brother (in front of the others). "How's it weavin'? This calls for some glass grass." Jake takes out a skin of the potent stuff and pours it into several mugs and offers it around. Of course, the first one he offers it to is Liana...with a charming smile. Then to his bud, Sterlin, then to the rest. He listens to the story of Sterlin unfolding, and relaxes.
Gilan Monday November 24th, 2003 4:24:19 PM
Gilan glances to Sterlin and smiles as he makes his way over to him. Taking his hand he shakes it and looks the young man over. "Learned anything new?" He cannot help it but wonder what it is that his friend has learned in the company of the Walker.
With the offer of glass grass he accepts a mug, which is not actally like him at all. He sits and sips it as he listens to all the catchup gossip that is going to go on. He glances to the Manfri and wonders once again just how closely attached to the land they are.
When he sees an opening he makes his way over to the aged Manfri and bows to him before taking a seat. "Sir...I was wondering if I might be able to learn more about your people and your connection to the land?" He silently hopes that he has not overstepped any bounds with his question, but his curiousity would not leave him alone.
Anuk Monday November 24th, 2003 4:46:11 PM
The sound of Sterlin's voice causes Anuk's grin to break out in full. He makes his way over to his old friend and asks excitedly, "So, how has life with Black been? Are you returning to the pack?"
As the group surrounds surrounds Sterlin and asks their questions, Anuk grabs some food and begins to eat. When Jake offers the glass grass, Anuk hesitates for a moment, remembering the pack's adventure harvesting the glass pod and the hangover it gave him. "Ah, why not? Fill 'er up, Jake!" and he puts a cup forward.
Still curious about what the manfri may be planning to offer him, he keeps an eye on the small man while he talks to Liana.
"Black said your pack died out there on the plains. I am truly sorry for your loss. Tell me, what were they like? How did you escape the same fate?"
Flea Monday November 24th, 2003 7:37:03 PM
The gnome stares open mouthed at the druid, as he emerges from the shadows and greets the pack. Suddenly shy, she watches as the others welome their old friend.
As she serves herself another bowl of the drink, spiked with some of Jake's glass grass, she explains to Liana in a hushed voice, "Sterlin used to be one of us, but he went walker.
Grymash Monday November 24th, 2003 8:50:32 PM
Bits of gooy half-chewed bisquit drop from Grymash's mouth when he sees Sterlin emerge from the darkness. "UHHHH .... Sturwinnn!!!," mumbles Grymash loudly as he stumbles over himself and other packmates to get to the young druid. Grymash greets Sterlin with a big goofy tooth filled grin. In his giddiness, Grymash almost tackles the poor unsuspecting druid to the cavern floor.
"Where Sterlin be ... How ya doin' ... Bless Gargul Sterlin not be ate by rapke, or bounder, or piggie, or moth .... Ohhh what ever!!! Gry is completely unaware that he is showering Sterlin with bisquit bits with every word.
ADM Carla "With a Little Help From My Friends" Monday November 24th, 2003 11:40:33 PM
Everyone's spirits are lifted by the return of Sterlin. Jake shares his stash of glass grass and an impromptu party breaks out as Trellus formally introduces the group to Liana. Gilan tries to talk mano-a-mano with the Mankife, while Anuk keeps an eye on the little fella.
As the pack take seats on the stone bench carved around the perimeter of the room, or on the floor, Mordri, or Black as the pack know him, moves to the center of the room. In a voice barely above a whisper, he explains to the group. "Once in a great while the rarest of the Wyrms comes to a graveyard such as this. It comes to a holy place, a good place. In such a place, it creates a cocoon. When the time is right, the Wyrm is reborn! Reborn not as another Wyrm, but as something extraordinary. It is reborn as the wisest and noblest of the beasts the Plains will ever know, and few will ever see."
Fire flashes in the strider's eyes, as he draws his weapon, "and there will be a battle!" His eyes search out one by one each member of the bloodpack. "We of the many circles are not alone in witnessing this event! There are others! Those who would break the circle, and corrupt what is natural into something aberrant, a perversion, to be detested and despised!"
Liana Tuesday November 25th, 2003 1:24:31 AM
She enters the room along with the others and takes a seat, leaning her staff beside her. It feels good to sit she thinks and quietly watches the reunion when the other(Sterling) shows himself. She is not quite sure of the others position within the pack but turns a inquisitive eye to Trellus when he speaks to her and introduces her to the others. She smiles and nods her head respectfully to the priest. Jake offers her a drink in which she accepts with a smile and turns her attention to Anuk upon his query. "Yes, my pack had perished..the plains is a harsh place..most of them the heat got to them..others were attacked by those things you speak of..I believe you call them Rapke? I escaped by luck only..my spells helped but sadly they weren't enough to save the others.." She reached a hand to rub the back of her neck and then took a drink of the liquid given to her by Jake. "I am not very familair with the plains..having only been here for a short time, so forgive my ignorance if you will for I am learning still, but my oath to the plain stands..Talki fresal, dondit liki.." The last said quietly but from within there was an inner fire that burned behind her emerald eyes as she listened to what Black had to say.
Grymash Tuesday November 25th, 2003 2:23:28 AM
Grymash listens to Black's every word. A devilish grin forms across his face when he mentions there will be a fight. "Battle! Now we talk bout sumthin' Gry understand. When it start? More rapke an piggie bounders? How many Gry have ta kill?"
Sterlin Tuesday November 25th, 2003 11:32:57 AM
"Grymash, you are ready for battle as always. It is the Wyrm we must protect. Anything which attempts to break this cycle is what you must kill. I'm very glad to see all of you and I'd join you in this battle if you will have me at your side."
Jake Tuesday November 25th, 2003 1:48:28 PM
New women, drinking, party, old friends, and a battle...Now This is what getting away from Rattledam is supposed to be like, Jake thinks to himself. "Don't worry, hun. Good ole Jake'll look af'er ya," Jake grins at the girl. His teeth are all there and nice, one of his proudest features. "Just tell us where to stand, Walker, and we'll fight them nasty cretins." He draws his own sword with gusto and takes another swig from his glass grass cup.
Trellus Tuesday November 25th, 2003 2:15:09 PM
"You know," Trellus muses, "We've been calling that thing we saw at the lightning grass a Moth. What if that was a Wyrm, and the Sarg Moth is the weaver thats in the cocoon?"
He surveys the pack's battle eagerness with a wry grin. It's always easier to deal with what you know he decides.
Once the general roar of approval dies down, he queries Black for some specifics. "What should we expect? Where do we go? Will we have time to prepare before battle?"
Anuk Tuesday November 25th, 2003 4:02:32 PM
When Liana tells Anuk about her pack, he understands a little of what she must have been through. The Blood Pack's past dealings with rapke were nearly all narrow escapes. Then end could come so easily. When she repeats the oath, Anuk clasps one hand over the other and bows his head slightly in return.
"To be honest," he tells Liana, "I don't know much about the Plains, either. On this trek we have traveled further outside of the walls of Rattledam, our home, than ever before. But what knowledge we have, we will gladly share with you. I'm glad you're with us."
Anuk settles in and listens to Black elaborate on the cocoon and the pack's upcoming fight. As the walker tells them more about what they are about to face, he feels a bit of shame at his earlier outburst. But, when the others begin to stand and proclaim their readiness, Anuk leaps to his feet, throws his fists in the air, and shouts, "Bloodpack!! Yaaargghh!!!" Looking around at the others his face goes a little red with embarassment, and he sits down with a grin.
Flea Tuesday November 25th, 2003 5:42:44 PM
Sitting cross-legged on the floor, Flea listens with great solemnity. She finishes the glass grass liquor provided by Jake, and then pours herself a full cup of stuff from the small jug on the table. The rogue joins the chorus of excited voices when their next mission is explained. The gnome gets to her feet, staggering a little, then announces, "I love you guys!" before lurching towards the half-orc and giving him a big hug around the knees, "I love you Grymaaassshh!"
Gilan Tuesday November 25th, 2003 6:12:07 PM
Gilan sets his mug down having only finished about half of it. Though he could feel the beginnings of warmth in his body he fought it off as best he could. "I think I speak for most of us when I ask if you know anything about what we may have to face in protecting this last event?" He glances to the others though some of them had asked the same question. "Do we have time to prepare...at least a days worth...I would like my spells to be at full strength and maybe some different ones at that." You can see a new eagerness in his voice and attitude. That he will do what it takes to help his friends and nature without doubting his course again.
He glances to Flea and smiles as she falls over Gry. "I believe that some of us will need time for them to sober a little." He can feel the effects of glass grass himself and knows that it will hamper his abilities. He picks back up his cup and raises it high. "Talki fresal, dondit liki....to the cycle and friends...the battle to come." He drains down the last of his mug and sits listening to the things said around him. He thinks about The Wold Mother and what to ask her for to use in the coming battle.
ADM Carla "A Hard Day's Night" Tuesday November 25th, 2003 9:27:36 PM
The group cheers Mordri's news of a pending battle, though many questions remain. As the pack bonds further over food and drink, the manfri elder moves to the center of the room beside Black. He spreads his arms wide, and the room seems to grow darker. Everyone in the room grows quiet as he begins to speak in the odd language of barks and clicks, which the walker translates.
The combined effects of a hard day on the plains, high emotions, a full stomach, and spirits take their toll. As the Mankife with the help of Mordri spins his tapestry of words, the tired adventurers fall into a trance like magical sleep.*
Trellus, Gilan, Anuk, Flea, Liana, Sterlin, Jake and Grymash relive the past week on the plains, witnessing a different event each day. Only, in this dream, the cycle is broken as the Bloodpack questioning and unsure, fail to protect the wild beasts as they evolve. Heavy black clouds scuttle across a blood red sky as the Baron's men riding huge abominations of the wild rapke attack the evolving plains wildlife. The grunts and screams of the wild beasts rends the air as they are killed or corrupted. A subtle change in the cries and the scene changes to the foundling city of Rattledam, it's great protective grass dome ablaze as climbers fight in vain to supress the flames, only to succumb to the heat and smoke and fall to their death, into the frenzied crowd. As the citizens run to the fountains in panic, the monks try to restore order, but are cut down by the onslaught of Raiders and the Baron's men. All around, the grass of the plains is ablaze, and the roar as the hungry fire consumes the grass is deafening...
*The magic sleep will be a full 24 hours, after which all HP are recovered, all resources restored.
(Party's initiative. Please post your PC's personal version of the dream as they all sleep/dream through the next round.)
Trellus Tuesday November 25th, 2003 10:37:36 PM
The cleric twitches repeatedly, willing himself desperately out of this nightmare. He had led the mutiny, refusing to continue until one of these bright faced beaters had the common decency to just tell him what he wanted to know.
Now he finds himself in the burning city of Rattledam, watching helplessly as Baron-mounted Rapke tear through his home. His brother, Danner, is cut down. And he hears the screaming of his mother in the next room. Rushing to her rescue, he is stopped by a wall of fire. He cannot get through. The young cleric turns to see his sister, Jenny, consumed by a bounder. The creature laughs evilly at him as it bends to feast....
"NO!" Trellus charges... and is cut down by a rapke that rips his stomach out. As he once again looks down at his opened stomach, the boy's last thought is, This is my fault
Liana Wednesday November 26th, 2003 1:18:18 AM
Darkness consumes her in a fit of dreams. Men riding wild beasts..the thundering of their hooves is deafening as they slaughter wildlife in their wake. Her breathing comes in short rasps as she fights for air from the thick black smoke that fills her lungs and burns her nostrils. Screaming children as an unknown city burns but somehow she know it is Rattledam, the mysterious city of the plains. Sinister laughter echoes within her head..it is all around her and she cries out in her sleep.
Jake Wednesday November 26th, 2003 1:47:33 AM
Jake dreams back to when he was a much smaller version of his current self, a mere boy of seven or eight. Every day, getting up, and endless cycle of raising the piggies, feeding them slop and making sure they don't get out of the pen, catching wild ones, pulling them back into the pen with bare hands... And then the riders come, attacking and burning while the little boy watches in awe and fear. Lighting the farm on fire, killing his sisters, a young version of Anuk getting caught by an axe, another packmate getting hauled off in a net to be fed to Rapke...
Grymash Wednesday November 26th, 2003 1:21:09 PM
Grymash seems whipped around the plains by the winds and then materializes back into Rattledam as the attack begins.
The shock of watching his home go up in flames holds Grymash still ... hesitant to act. Raiders emerge from the grasses edge. The orc raiders, mixed with barons and their mounts, charge into the open. The fury and hatred of Grymash, for his orc captors, burns to a white hot intensity like the holy symbol of Gargul on his buckler. His armor transforms into a horrific, sadistically twisted, spiked suit of breastplate. Grymash slams on his helmet, full of blood, down upon his head. The blood runs down his face and body, covering him with crimson, fueling his blood frenzy.
Grymash surges forward with his double axe spinning and twirling. The lead orcs are the first to fall headless to the ground. Then another and another. A rapke and baron rider charge in to strike at the half-orc. Gry side steps and takes out the legs of the rapke. After the rapke stumbles and crashes to the ground, Grymash decapitates the baron as he lay pinned under his mount.
More rush in and surround the barbarian. Again heads are cut, bodies are slashed. Blood and guts are slung and sprayed in every direction. Grymash, lost in his rage, revels with every wave of attackers and quickly cuts them to pieces.
Suddenly they stop coming. Grymash looks around at all the remains of bodies piled on top of each other. He lifts his head to the sky and roars in celebration ... in victory. When Gry looks back down he is shocked at what he sees. Throwing his helmet off, he clears the blood from his eyes and looks on in total and complete shock. What he sees cuts him deeper than any sword or fang. He sees the bodies of his packmates, Malafret, Black, Mankife, and towns people of Rattledam. Gry killed them all.
"WHAT GRY DONE??!! NO ... NO.. NNOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"
Gilan Wednesday November 26th, 2003 6:07:26 PM
Gilan rolls over in his sleep, seeking shelter from the nightmares that plague him this night. He sees them fail at all the events that they had witnessed. One after another they are unable to prevent the death of that which they are to protect, though they live themselves. He whimpers in his sleep as he rolls over again.
Then they return to the town and find themselves in even worse trouble with thier failure. Exile is talked of and even death for what they have done. But that is not to happen as the dome bursts into flames and rapke invade the town. People are torn to pieces before his eyes and that of his pack. He sees Flea torn to pieces and he is splattered by her blood as he tries to save her.
He moans and shifts in his sleep again. He witnesses Gry caught in a rage killing rapke and bounders by the dozens. Then he cuts the head clean off of Trellus as he moves to stop a bounder from hitting him from behind. The screams of the people shake him in his shoes as he sees them dragged out of houses and killed. His own Kaili is brought out into the square and used by the Barons as some kind of toy. He races to get to her only to have himself pinned to the ground by spears through his legs. Hiding his face he only wishes for a quick death as he sees her head bit clean off.
Jerking awake with a start he looks around at the others. He is pale from the nightmares and shaking with fear. He realizes that no more sleep will come and he hopes that morning is fast approaching.
Flea Wednesday November 26th, 2003 8:01:09 PM
The rogue rolls over in her sleep moaning as she sees herself pulling back from her commitment to protect the evolving circle of plains life as confusion and doubt cloud her judgement. She hears the screams of the wildlife, and then bolts upright in her little bed in Gilan's hut. Just a dream she thinks as she plumps the pillows, before realising that the screaming hasn't stopped. Before she can arm herself, the door is knocked off its hinge by evil looking raiders accompanied by a tall hooded monk. As the raiders hold her down, the monk breathes smoke in her face, then starts to laugh.
The gnome's head feels like it will burst, her eyes hurt, and her tongue feels rough and heavy. She moves over to the little dresser to peer in the mirror and spies an insane cross between a frog and a bulldog. Her mouth is an obscene grin of razor sharpe teeth. The mirror catches the image of Gilan, his face contorted in terror as he sees what Flea has become.
The small rogue with the bounder head brushes past the druid and out the door, only to slam into the blood soaked Grymash. Not recognizing his pack mate, Gry chases her through the burning streets laughing, "Me kill piggie bounder! Hee! Hee! Hee!" As she tries to yell, "It's me! It's Flea!" But only disgusting noises come from her mouth.
Somehow escaping the raging cleric of Gargul, Flea finds herself in the tunnels, wandering until she is in the room with the many animal pictures and the hand prints, and the magical golden door! Kneeling in front of the door the rogue fumbles for her theives tools, but can not find them. Remembering her feeble reasons for commiting to the first circle before she fully understood the meaning of her promise, she falls against the door crying. "Let me in! Let me in! I'm sorry! I'll be good! Talki fresal, dondit liki. The land, my life."
Anuk Wednesday November 26th, 2003 8:24:58 PM
Anuk dreams quietly at first, smiling as he relives the experience of taking the oath and leaving Rattledam with his pack on their adventure. His hopes are high until their first encounter. The rapke come and Anuk readies his bow only to find himself suddenly behind a wall of glass. He can see the creatures he must protect, he can hear the cries of the savage predators, but he cannot reach either of them. He fires an arrow, hoping to shatter the glass, but the missile bounces harmlessly off of the wall and falls to the ground. He tries to run around the wall, but it seems to move with him, to surround him. Helplessly, he watches the rapke destroy the piggies and retreat into the grasses. Only then does the wall fall.
With each encouter, the scenario repeats -- the rapke come and the wall appears. Anuk stands and watches the creatures he's sworn to protect die beneath the savage onslaught. His frustration grows until it is replaced with rage and anger. He screams, hoping to shatter the barrier between him and the fight. He runs, jumps, crawls, digs, but always the wall surrounds him.
Next, Black appears. His voice is low, gutteral. "Why don't I trust you, you ask? Why don't you trust yourself?" The walker points to Anuk's back. When Anuk looks over his shoulder, he realizes the glass wall is sprouting from his back, like some hideous perversion of wings. It comes from somewhere deep inside him.
"Wha?! But...I didn't...I can't...I didn't know! It's not me...not my fault...not me! I didn't know!!" He twists and turns, trying to reach the glass, moving faster and faster in tighter and tighter circles and then he is underwater. The glass is gone, but he is beneath the surface of a pool. He is home in Rattledam, swimming again. The pressure builds on his lungs. He needs air. He swims upward, but the surface is always just out of reach, always a stroke away. Grymash appears at the pool's edge. Big and strong and friendly, Gry smiles and offers a hand. Anuk reaches out to grasp it when a giant rapke appears behind Gry. Anuk screams, but no sound escapes the water. As Gry looks calmly down at Anuk, still reaching, the beast's maw opens and then Grymash is no more. Beheaded. The body falls to the ground, but then slowly rises again. It's not Grymash this time. It is Anuk's father. He looks down and asks "Why didn't you ask what was happening? Why didn't you trust that I would know what I was doing?" Again a rapke appears and again the figure loses its head. When it rises this time, it is Flea. She looks into the pool. "'Nuk?" she asks plaintively before dying like the others.
Each member of the pack, even Liana, the newcomer, rises and dies. Anuk screams again, his lungs fit to burst, but he cannot reach the surface of the water. He writhes frantically in the water. Everything begins to fall away. He looks at his right arm, and his glove is gone, exposing the twisted remains of his hand. Anuk stares as his arms and legs each begin to shrivel and age. He weakens as the light about him fades into blackness and then oblivion.
I'm sorry. I didn't know.
ADM Carla "The Sun Shines on the First..." Wednesday November 26th, 2003 9:20:17 PM
Terrible visions of what would become of the Sargrass Plains and Rattledam should they fail in their mission, plague the Bloodpack's dreams. Although wild creatures of the plains may be fierce, they are as nothing to the corrupted versions used by the barons and their men.
Trellus, Gilan, and Anuk realize that making a personal sacrifice for the greater good of all life on the plains, is both a noble and worthy cause. Flea and Grymash are tortured by personal demons, while Liana and Jake, who never doubted their commitment to the plains, rest a little easier.
Upon waking, the pack notice Mordri, and the Mankife are gone, but they are not alone. There are nine little straw mats on the ground. Five of them are occupied by tiny dark bodies curled up in sleep. Three males are discussing something in quiet tones, while a female is applying daubs of colour to the wall. When Flea cries out in her sleep, the painter and the three debaters turn to stare at the rousing pack. Clutching their fists to their chests, they repeat, "Talki fresal, dondit liki". This sudden commotion causes the sleepers to wake. They smile at the members of the Bloodpack, roll up their mats, and start to don various combinations of light, woven grass equipment. One slim female has several small pouches hanging from the belt around her simple shift. From one pouch peeps a hairless dessert mouse. They all carry steel grass knives, and a few have javelins. All nine have a smudge of blue paint drawn on their right cheek, just under their eye.
Before any words are exchanged, a tall, gaunt woman with very dark skin, and long silvery hair stands in the doorway and barks and clicks at the group. A few grab bisquits off the table, before filing out after the female walker. Within moments, the woman's place if filled by Mordri, as he grins his devilish grin at the pack and announces, "It's time!"
Liana Thursday November 27th, 2003 12:46:50 AM
She awakes with a start and reaches for her staff which to her relief is beside her. Her heart pounds from the nightmarish dreams she experienced and her brow glistens with sweat against the dim lighting of the cavern. Letting her eyes adjust to the darkness she notes the others are waking as well and hears Mordri speak. She slowly pulls herself up and dusts herself off.
Jake Thursday November 27th, 2003 12:13:54 PM
[Thanksgiving and the follow up events might mess up my posting till Monday. Sorry.] Jake wakes somewhat fretfully and sits in the back, staring at the Manfri and his packmates. He silently watches the others get up, and follows suit. When hearing it is time, he draws his sword and checks the edge...can never be too sure of that.
Sterlin Thursday November 27th, 2003 5:16:39 PM
Sterlin joins those outside. A big battle is coming and he hopes that he does not lose any friends.
Gilan Thursday November 27th, 2003 6:39:00 PM
Waking from the nightmares of his own making he feels strangely rested. Though he still feels some of the fear of the night he pushes it to the side. No he has many reasons to take on this commitment and he will not fail.
He eats a little as he sits in one corner of the cave taking his time to commune with the Plains themselves. With a new look of purpose he makes his way back to the others. The announcement that it is time bring a grim set to his face. "I am prepared...Talki fresal, dondit liki." He slips into his armor and shield, then pulls out his scimitar. Testing the edge he loosens up with a couple of swings.
Anuk Thursday November 27th, 2003 8:11:50 PM
Anuk recalls bits and pieces of the strange dreams that tormented him as he follows Black and the others outside. He watches the little warriors getting ready, and then steels himself for what's to come.
Flea Thursday November 27th, 2003 11:17:07 PM
Flea slowly shakes her head, and sticks her tongue out, smacking a bit to get rid of the hairy sensation. Quickly she fishes out her little steel mirror and checks the reflection. What she sees isn't pretty. Green and black smudges of paint, red rimmed eyes, and sun bleached hair sticking out at odd angles. Bad as it is, it's not as bad as what she saw in the mirror in her dream.
She keeps an eye on the pint sized pack that seems to be sharing their room and is intrigued when they are called out. She makes an attempt to smooth out her clothes and fastens her armour securely about her, before performing a quick inventory of her weapons and ammunition.
When the plainstrider summons the pack, she follows without hesitation.
ADM Carla "...and the Second Protects the Dark" Thursday November 27th, 2003 11:53:17 PM
The pack exits the cave, and despite the trial of their dreams, feels physically and emotionally renewed. They now know what they must do! It is a full day, and then some, since they entered the tunnel, and it is now early evening. The sun is all but gone from the sky and a few stars twinkle as the blanket of dark night is pulled across the sky.
Outside the tunnel and stationed haphazardly along the edge of the rock face is a small assortment of plains vehicles, the group's skiff among them.
The cocoon seems to glow with an inner light as whatever is inside roils and writhes. Gathered around it, as if in worship, are many manfri and walkers. Leaning against spears, waiting, or imobile as statues, facing the darkening sky as if gathering strength from meditation. The pack of manfri with the blue mark on their faces trots by, and takes up a place on one side of the cocoon. A company of very tall and very thin individuals marching in rigid formation moves around to the other side of the nest of bones, and disappears in the dark, crossing a squad of silent monks on the way.
Other than the crunch of feet on shale and bone, it is deathly quiet. The excitement is palpable. Something momentous is about to happen!
(OOC: This is the last ADM post of the week.)
Gilan Saturday November 29th, 2003 3:44:27 PM
Gilan looks to all those that have gathered and swallows hard. This is most definitely going to be a major even and battle. He glances to the others and smiles. "Looks like we have our work cut out for all of us." With a sigh he smiles again and then turns to the pack. "I have a couple of defensive spells and a spell that gives you greater strength...anyone interested?" He knows that they will be needing all the help that they can get in the coming battle.
Trellus Sunday November 30th, 2003 2:13:03 PM
The young cleric takes in Mordri's appearance, and follows the rest out of the cavern with an expressionless face. Almost absentmindedly, he reaches out and pops a biscuit in his mouth on his way by.
The man's thoughts dwell on last night's dreams. Clearly, the dream was directed by the manfri to explain the lesson. And, sure, Trellus gets the pick. Defend the Circle, fine. So why can't these beaters just tell him instead of invading his mind and playing games? He shakes his head vigorously, as if to expel whoever else was in there. He'll accept that protecting the circle is necessary, and he'll accept he has much to learn. But, Trellus is not overly fond of the teaching methods.
Bringing himself back to present, he answers Gilan. "I'll hit Gry with my strength spell. Anuk'll put one on Jake. Use yours on yourself or whoever looks like their about to get in melee. Hold on to it for now, 'cause that's a short lasting pick."
"Sterlin, is that tangling spell gonna work here? I don't see any plants."
"Liana, when we get into it, Anuk and Flea tend to disappear and hit from a distance. Gry and Jake attack. Gilan, Sterlin, and I either attack or support, depending on numbers. What should we expect from you?"
Having covered as much as he can, Trellus gets into position to see whats gonna happen. His grin starts coming back as he waits for the hatching with increasing excitement.
Liana Sunday November 30th, 2003 6:46:49 PM
Once outside she listens to the others plan out what they will do and looks over to the strange thing in the middle. She looks to Trellus when he speaks to her. "I prefer to stay out of melee if possible..I am a spell weaver and will cast spells from afar.."
Flea Sunday November 30th, 2003 8:04:50 PM
Flea sidles up to Anuk, and with a grin asks, "You wanna' dance?"
When Liana mentions her expertise, Flea fishes around in a side pocket of her pack, and pulls out a scroll. "If things get hairy, can you make this work for me?" Flea hands the woman one of the scrolls given to her by Gilan, Mage Armour.
She watches the manouvres of the others who comprise the army that is standing on guard around the cocoon, and shifts her weight from side to side, ready to get on with whatever it is they have to do next.
(OOC: Sorry Kevin, but I'm unable to send e-mail at this time. Can you add some things to my PC sheet? Potion - Lesser Restoration (L&B prize), and Seal - Improved Evasion Feat +1 for everyone when opened)
Anuk Sunday November 30th, 2003 10:52:06 PM
"Sorry, Trellus...Jake...we used the strength spell that was in the stone. I won't be able to help with that." Anuk spends a few moments recounting what spells are currently available in the ioun stone: Pass without Trace, Shield of Faith, Remove Fear, Entangle, Expeditious Retreat, Cure Light Wounds.
At Flea's offer to dance, his grin breaks out. He draws a sword and bows extravagantly. "Milady, it would be my pleasure."
Grymash d20+2=15 d20+5=19 Monday December 1st, 2003 12:41:42 AM
Grymash takes the opportunity to retreive his whetstone from his belt pouch and begins to run it the full length of his double-axe blades. Every grating pass of the stone creates bright colorful sparks that quickly die before reaching the ground. When Gry finishes, he blows on the blade and tests it with his finger. Feeling its sharpness, Grymash forms a devilish grin across his face. "Ohhhh ... axe be ready ta chop chop choppy!'
He only starts to begin to wonder who or what they are going to be fighting. Are all these people on the "good" side or is the enemy walking amongst us? He takes a hard look at everyone involved. (Spot 15, Listen 19)
In a low Gry voice, Grymash asks his pack, "uuhhhh, is everybody here on Gry side or some enemy?"
As Gry listens for an answer, he reaches into the skiff and pulls out his rapke skull. He takes the U-shaped lower jawbone and ties a single leather strap to each side, making a morbid toothy necklace. A nice trophy of a past kill. Grymash proudly places the necklace around his neck. He wonders if it was possible to attach the rapke skull to his helmet, but there's no time at the moment. It will have to wait until after battle. The jawbone necklace will have to do.
Not even bothering to bow his head in prayer, this barbarian speaks to his god with his eyes wide open. "Gargul ... Gry bout ta send many dead your way. Guide Gry axe so me chop, chop n hack... cleave der flesh meat from bones. Help Gry bury'em with me big feet an stomp der no-life bodies back in ground. Let Gry feed bugs an creeper worms on body mushy bloody meat. Gry spit curses with der blood as Gry raise AXE AND SHOUT IN GARGUL NAME!!
Liana Monday December 1st, 2003 12:10:23 PM
She looks over the scroll from flea and nods. "I can do my best.." She hands it back to her. "When you are ready for it.." She goes over the spells in her head that she has memorized. <i>detect magic x2, detect poison x1 Read magic x1, Endure elements x2, Magic Missle x1, shield x1, scorching ray x 1 and false life x1
Jake Monday December 1st, 2003 1:55:39 PM
To Grymash, Jake says, "They're weavin' our grass, bro." He nods respectfully to them all, and draws his own sword. Glancing at the others, he says, "You know, it's always hurry up an' wait... ah bet we have at least an hour before whatever happens."
DM Kevin Monday December 1st, 2003 6:00:43 PM
The Mankife from near Rattledam is there to greet the party. He utters the words, "Talki fresal, dondit liki; the land, my life," to each.
The Walker Mordri is there as well and explains things a bit. 'Once in a great while, the greatest of the wyrms comes to a graveyard such as this to change into the wisest and noblest of beasts."
He draws his weapon. "And there will be a battle. If we can defend the cocoon long enough for the beast to emerge, then you will some something extraordinary. The raiders and the baron's men will be here by dark. If there is anything any of you needs like healing, now is the time to speak up."
Flea (AC19, HP28) d20+8=20 d20+6=7 Monday December 1st, 2003 9:16:59 PM
Flea makes a couple of passes with her short sword, then replaces it in it's sheath. She leaves the restraining flap open. After adjusting the quiver of arrows on her back, she strings her bow, and tests it. Her ears are attuned to what is going on about her (Listen=20), but she doesn't catch much (Spot=7) due to her preoccupation with her weapons. She is ready to witness the next event.
Trellus Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 10:00:09 AM
The cleric responds to Mordri, "Dude, it'd be totally shady if we had a few minutes warning before the battle. We got a lot of waxed spells, but they don't last long."
Checking out his weaponry, Trellus nudges Grymash. "Gry, I've got a spell that will make you grow to twice your size. You'll do more damage, but you'll be easier to hit. Do you want it?"
Liana Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 12:45:49 PM
She glances around to the others. "I have an extra endure element spell if anyone needs one.."
Grymash d8+2=7 d8+2=7 d8+2=7 d8+2=9 Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 1:21:58 PM
The barbarian's pointy ears perk a little when Trellus mentions that he can grow him to twice his normal size. Then slowly, as the idea sinks into his dim-witted mind, a grin grows across his face. Eventually his grin bursts into a devilish, tooth-filled grimacing smile. "Hee hee hee ... Gry BIG! OOOOhh ... shaaaddy!" Grymash nods his head with much enthusiasm. "Yeah, yeah ...Gry beat down many piggie rapke bounder thingies when BIG. Gry got protection spell ta weave on me too. Gry be good!"
Grymash turns his attention to a potion that he pulls from his belt pouch. A potion that he's been carrying for a long time. He thinks it may be needed now, and since the pack was away from the grass, they were now in a safe place to use it. The vial has a strange red lizard carved on its stopper and has always been hot to the touch. Holding it up close to his eyes, he gives it the closer look. Grymash drools a little from his slack-jawed mouth. The idea of finally drinking the potion, when the battle starts, makes him as giddy as a half-orc can get. "Think of da stories an songs thay write an sing bout us. Doh! Pack no can talk bout this, Piggie Dumps!!"
Grymash then checks himself for injuries when Black mentions it. (We all gain back 4 points of lethal damage after we had slept for 8 hours. Non-lethal damage is cured completely.) Grymash zaps himself with his "feel good stick" (cure wand, 7 points) curing himself to full health. "Anybody need ta be hit wit Gry's Feel Good Stick?" Gry will "hit" anyone with it whenever they speak up. (three hits: 7, 7, 9)
Grymash turns to Liana and blurts, "Dat Feel Good In Sticky Hot spell is good spell, but it night time!?"
Anuk Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 1:52:32 PM
Anuk casts a look around the area, searching for Twinge. He finds the snake basking on a rock in the dwindling light. Thought you'd be here, he thinks to himself. Things may get a bit sticky soon.
He sits down on the ground near the snake and goes into a mode of quiet contemplation. (Prepares Summon Nature's Ally.)
(OOC: I thought that after the magical 24-hour sleep we were all healed and re-stocked.)
Jake Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 3:37:47 PM
"We have till dark, he said. Cast yer spells then," Jake says softly to his friends, not wanting to insult his guests. He sits in the grass to wait and wishes he had a bit of shade. In his lap sit his heavy shield and his sword.
DM Kevin Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 7:48:02 PM
More manfri show up as time passes, as well as additional walkers. A small army now waits for the approach of those who would break the cycle.
Black speaks to the party, " I believe we will have notice of the enemy's arrival. It will be an army at least as large as our own. Still, we should be ready for any subterfuge which they might use."
Gilan Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 10:27:28 PM
Gilan glances to the rest and nods his head in understanding. "Once the army reaches so that we can see them I will start casting my spells then." Glancing to the others again he smiles. "I also have one of those big potions if anyone wants it to use." He silently goes through the spells that he knows so that he can make best use of them. Glancing around at the valley he suddenly wishes that he had not taken the entangle spell.
Flea d20+10=19 Tuesday December 2nd, 2003 11:58:02 PM
When the rogue hears Trellus offer up a spell to Grymash that will double his size, she pipes up, "Hey! What about me!" If the cleric looks like he might seriously consider it, she will pipe up, "Just kidding, although it would be shady to be 6 ft."
Having stayed close to the ranger, she whispers, "Anuk, lets sneak around a bit and see if we can find a good place from which to provide a ranged defense." Flea will scout about to locate a good spot from which she can see, but not be seen. (Search=19)
Trellus Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 8:45:02 AM
The cleric grins at Flea. "A six foot gnome, sounds like trouble," he kids.
Addressing the group, Trellus says, "I've got that wand we got a while back that makes you immune to the Rapke's poison." A quick look at Gry, and the young man tries again, "The poison can't hurt you."
"I'm gonna weave it on all of us once they start getting close. Then I'll weave up Gry with my get big and get strong spells. Gilan, you power up Jake. We also need to cast whatever protection spells we got. I've got Domi's Ward for Flea, a shield for myself, and Domi's blessing for whoever stays near me."
Trellus keeps looking at the cocoon as he speaks more and more rapidly. This is the first time they've really been able to think about the impending battle for very long, and the anticipation is making the young man a bit nervous.
Liana Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 12:49:04 PM
((Thought it was daytime..oops sorry))
Liana will take the time to switch spells..switch 2 endure elements to get 1 magic missle and 1 shield...all 1st level spells.
Anuk d20+5=19 Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 2:32:24 PM
"Good idea, Flea. I'll check for good locations, too." (search = 19)
Grymash Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 6:15:14 PM
On second thought, Grymash wonders if it is time to unleash such a potion upon the Plains. So he exchanges the potion with the funny stopper for two others from his belt pouch. Gry carefully looks one potion over and hands it to Jake upon realizing it to be the right one.
"Jake, dis potion help Jake hit hard an be tougher, be more Jake than Jake ever be!! Drink when battle start." (Potion of Heroism)
Grymash keeps the other potion for himself. Through the clear glass vial, the thin green liquid shurns, spins and swirls. As if in a constant and perpetual aggitation. Grymash smiles and nods with approval with his choice. "Dats duh stuff ... hee hee hee!" (Potion of Haste)
Jake Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 8:07:57 PM
Jake nods, sitting back in the shade and taking it easy. "Well, thank ya, partner. Could always use a shot of something special." After taking the potion thankfully from Grym, he sits back. He tips his head over his eyes, and for all anyone knows, as the wait continues he could be sleeping.
Gilan Wednesday December 3rd, 2003 8:30:00 PM
Gilan will hit himself and Grymash with his barkskin spell before the battle starts. Then he will hit Jake with his bull's strength spell before they have to engage the enemy as well.
Depending on how soon he needs to enter combat he will pull out his club and hit it with his shillelagh spell so that he is more effective in combat.
Glancing to the others her stashes the potion till later, figuring that it maybe not a very good choice for anyone else in the group. "Seems we have a fairly decent battle plan going." He smiles to the rest hopeing that it will rub off on the rest.
DM Kevin Thursday December 4th, 2003 3:26:11 PM
Nighttime slowly approaches. Many places which were clearly visible become pools of darkness. No sign of the army yet, but you all fell it will be upon you very soon.
Black speaks, " Be alert everyone. I know they will be here soon. When they arrive, I'm sure they will be chargeing towards us thirsty for battle. They will not be alone, for I thirst for battle with these beasts as well. "
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) Thursday December 4th, 2003 4:01:41 PM
"Sounds like a warning to me," the cleric mumbles. Trellus gets busy.
He pulls a wand out and casts Neutralize Poison (duration 70 minutes) on all 8 party members.
Then, he lays hands on Flea, invoking Domi's Ward (+4 on next save, lasts 60 minutes).
Then, he casts four spells - Shield of Faith on himself, Enlarge Person on Gry, Bulls Strength on Gry, and Bless (+1 morale bonus on atks AND +1 bonus on saves against fear effects)
"Stay together, dudes," he cautions, looking specifically at his half orc packmate.
Grymash (ac20, hp46, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, longstrider, neut. poison, fb) Thursday December 4th, 2003 6:01:10 PM
Grymash quickly crouches down so to not draw much attention as he begins to grow almost 13-ft tall. He feels the ground give a little under his massive weight (approx. 1,920 pounds). He feels strong ... stronger than he has ever been. However Gry feels more vunerable, being a larger target and feeling a little less light on his feet. Grymash marvels at the size his axe has become. Each blade is almost as large as Trellus himself. (size: large, +2str, -2dex, -1size mod, +4str checks, carry compacity x2, 10-ft reach, etc.)
Grymash quickly casts Protection from Evil and Longstrider upon himself (+2ac & saves vs evil. +10 movement). Gry goes ahead and pulls out the potion with the funny red lizard stopper and downs the hot liquid inside. Grymash's grey skin turns to a slight shade of red. Gry turns his head back to his pack and smiles. A small trail of smoke flows away from his mouth!!
Gry holds the other haste potion tightly in his left hand. He readies an action to down the potion when the other army finally begins to attack.
Anuk Thursday December 4th, 2003 8:57:24 PM
Returning from his search for a good spot from which to shoot, Anuk stops and gapes as Grymash suddenly grows...and grows...and grows.
He gives a low whistle and mutters, "Light,". Moving to stand directly below his gargantuan friend, he puts a hand to his mouth and hollers, "How's the weather up there, Gry?"
As the tension in the air increases, Anuk readies his bow and nocks an arrow. Looking about, he finds Flea. "I think I found a couple of good spots. Wanna stay near each other through this? We can gang up on a few of 'em when they get nearer."
Flea (AC19, HP28) Domi's Ward, Bless Thursday December 4th, 2003 10:37:50 PM
As the cleric lays his hands on the gnome she gets that calm feeling she had once before. That feeling is enhanced when the blessing is made over the pack. I must get to know this god, Domi. When this is over, I must ask Trellus to tell me about him. She doesn't say anything, but she gives the cleric a genuine smile and a nod of appreciation before she follows Anuk.
Liana (AC17 due to shield spell, HP17, nuetralize poison, Shield ) Thursday December 4th, 2003 11:10:06 PM
She closed her spellbook and put it away, her studying and switching of the spells complete. Trellus casts a spell on her..she nods her thanks and casts Shield (+4 to AC and negates magic missle, duration- 4 minutes) upon herself.
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh] Thursday December 4th, 2003 11:23:22 PM
Gilan looks to Black and nods as he turns to the group. "I have to agree Trellus..sounds like a warning to me." He makes his way over to the enlarging Gry and touches him as he casts barkskin.
With a look to the others he makes his way to Jake and gently lays his hand on his shoulder, casting bull's strength on him. Lastly he moves off to stand near Trellus, he invokes his last barkskin on himself along with shillelagh. He takes a couple of swings with the club in his hand and smiles. He slips a potion into his shield hand as he looks on and waits.
DURATIONS barkskin+2 40min or 240rounds bull's strength+4 4min or 24rounds shillelagh 4min or 24rounds
Jake Friday December 5th, 2003 4:42:11 AM
Jake tilts his hat when Gilan shakes him while casting the spell and yawns theatrically as he stands up. He bows to everyone present, and picks his sword out of the soil. "To life..."
Grymash Friday December 5th, 2003 12:16:43 PM
A loud rumble grinds and whines from Grymash's enlarged gut. Gry quicky places his hand on his stomach. Suddenly Gry bellows out a loud, >"BLLUURRPP ... URRAACCH!!"< A larger puff of smoke blows from his mouth. Grymash's expression is a mix of amazement and the bitter taste of acid reflux! "Ohhh ... dat uh biggun!!
DM Kevin Friday December 5th, 2003 4:17:17 PM
Darkness falls accross the plains. From the distance a sound can finally be heard which sounds like rolling thunder. Ocassionally, the blowing of a ram's horn may be heard as well. They are coming. Ready or not, Battle is on its way.
Flea (AC19, HP28) Domi's Ward, Bless d20+23=42 Sunday December 7th, 2003 7:10:31 PM
Flea sneaks into a hidden nook (Hide=42) and carefully lays out 5 arrows. Anuk is in view, as is the pack. She says a little prayer, "Domi, I do not yet know you, but the blessing bestowed by your cleric, Trellus, has protected me in the past. Please, protect me,Trellus, and our pack this day as we fight to protect that which is intended by nature to happen."
Flea shrugs her shoulders, unsure if the message of a small gnome would be heard by a great god of the Wold. She chooses an arrow, and winking an eye shut, examins the shaft.
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) Monday December 8th, 2003 8:22:30 AM
The cleric waits nervously beside his friends.
"C'mon already," he mutters. Waiting to get attacked totally bites grass.
Liana (AC17 due to shield spell, HP17, nuetralize poison, Shield ) Monday December 8th, 2003 1:39:19 PM
She stood at the ready, looking over the horizon towards the sounds of approaching battle.
Grymash (ac23, hp46, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, barkskin, longstrider, neut. poison, fb) d20=12 d20=18 d20=6 d20=19 Monday December 8th, 2003 2:42:08 PM
Grymash hears the booming roar of the approaching army in the darkness. He stands up to his full size and shouts out to the masses.
"EVERYONE ... GARGUL WATCH BATTLE DIS NIGHT. LET OUT SHOUTS AN ROARS AN BATTLE CRIES!! LET GARGUL KNOW THAT IF WE DIE DIS NIGHT DAT WARRIORS WILL COME TA MEET HIM! DAT WE DIE ON FEET AN WIT WEAPONS COVER IN ENEMY BLOOD! LET OUR WORDS ECHO ACROSS DA LAND ...TALKI FRESAL, DONDIT LIKI! SHOUT WIT GRY, TALKI FRESAL, DONDIT LIKI ... TALKI FRESAL, DONDIT LIKI!"
Grymash continues to rally the troops as he roars his battle cry. For added effect, Gry stomps the ground and clangs his weapon against his buckler. Grymash also releases every bit of positive energy that he can possibly channel. (Turn/Channel positive energy checks 12, 18, 6, 19) Hoping the positive energy will fuel their rage and inspire everyone to fight until their very last drop of blood.
(Gry continues his readied action.)
Anuk Monday December 8th, 2003 3:13:03 PM
Bow in hand, Anuk anxiously awaits the arrival of the enemy.
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh] Monday December 8th, 2003 3:29:59 PM
Gilan steps over beside Trellus and looks to his friend. "Looks like we are going to take a healers role again till things get really bad." With a smile he gently laughs and then turns his attention to the sounds of the approaching army. With a look to the others he sends a prayer to Mother Wold to look after them this night.
He smiles again at Gry as he tries to stir their battle lust. It was always good to have the barbarian on thier side. With another smile he adds his own voice to Gry's as he shouts out the last. "TALKI FRESAL, DONDIT LIKI!" Testing the weight of the club in his hand he shakes his head and prepares himself for that which comes.
DM Kevin Monday December 8th, 2003 7:30:50 PM
Formations of barbaric raiders emerge in your area running full speed towards you. Behind them are groups of the Baron's men riding on rapke. It is a horrifying sight. The army chargeing you is obviously bloodthirsty and outnumbers the manfri and walker army by at least two to one.
(party's initiative)
Flea (AC19, HP28) Domi's Ward, Bless d20+9=28 d4+2=3 Monday December 8th, 2003 9:42:19 PM
Flea notches the arrow, and pulls back on the bow. She sights the most logical target and waits for a signal before letting fly her first arrow.
(Held action: Hit AC 28, for 3 HP damage)
Liana (AC17 due to shield spell, HP17, nuetralize poison, Shield ) d4+1=3 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 1:17:16 AM
As soon as she sees the massive army she picks a target(one of the Rapke riders) and when that target get within 100 feet of her, she will cast magic missle.
Jake (Heroism, 37/37, AC 21/21) d20+12=23 d10+4=11 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 7:27:05 AM
Jake chugs the potion, then drops the empty bottle into the sand. He sweats, watching the line of guys approach, and will follow the leads of the walkers and such. If they charge to meet the oncoming onslaught, he will as well. If his pack stays where it is, he will as well. In any case, he moves now in front of his members, but stays crouching low with his sword waving small circles in the air and his shield now raised at ready...waiting, as arrows and spells whistle above him.
(When they come in range, I will charge if anyone else is charging, yelling a battle cry. If I do go charging, as Jake always does, he will use his power attack to inflict maximum damage on the first try. Otherwise, I will wait till they come into melee range then hit them. Hit AC 23, 20 if I was charging, did 13 damage (I forgot the +2 morale bonus to damage from heroism in the roll), 18 if I was charging.)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) Tuesday December 9th, 2003 9:35:42 AM
Trellus quietly waits behind Grymash as the half orc roars his battle cry.
The cleric breaks a Seal at his side and then waits for a group of the raiders to get within 30' before unleashing its energy.
(Deep Slumber, Will save DC 13 or fall asleep for 3 minutes. Affects up to 10 HD of creatures)
(Everyone remember that Bless spell!)
Grymash (ac20/22 against evil, hp54, RAGE, bless, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, barkskin, haste, longstrider, neut. poison, fire breath) d20+6=25 3d6(4+5+6)=15 d20+17=33 d10+15=23 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 10:18:34 AM
(Grymash downs the Haste potion from his readied action of the previous turn.)
The fire that burns within explodes into an infernal rage. Eye of Gargul from Grymash's shield lights the night sky with a bright shimmering light. All who stand this night cant help but see the ferocity in his giant size frame and expression. Bloodshot eyes, smoke trailing from his tooth nashing mouth, muscles and veins gorged with blood.
Grymash charges forward 30-ft in front of the others. The ground shakes under his stomping feet. Spinning his huge double axe, Grymash bellows a deafening roar of pure savagery. "GRROOOWWWAAAUUUUGGGGHHHHH!!!" (echo ... echo ... echo)
(Intimidation check. Demoralize Opponent option, under the skill description. +4 Size bonus to Intimidation skill. The front combatants that are charging who can see Grymash in all his glory must make a d20+HD+Wis modifer check against my DC of 25 or become Shaken for 1 round from Intimidation.)
Grymash punctuates his battle cry with a cone of hellfire shooting from his mouth. (30ft cone for 15 points of damage, reflex save DC 13 for half. If in range) The 13-ft tall, 2,000 pound, fire breathing, berzerking half-orc giant stands ready with his first victim. (Gry has a 10-ft reach, so first medium-sized victim in range will recieve an attack of opportunity. Hit AC 33 for 23 points of damage.)
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, bracers of archery) d20+11=26 d8+2=6 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 2:57:45 PM
"Talki fresal, dondit liki," mutters Anuk to himself as the raiders come flying into view. He pulls back on his bowstring, his gloved right hand resting on his cheek. He sights a raider near the front of the oncoming horde and waits until he is within 30 feet to fire.
(Held action. Hits AC26 for 6pts of damage)
Twinge glides silently on the ground nearby, keeping within a couple of feet of Anuk at all times.
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh] d20+6=12 2d6(2+5)+3=10 Tuesday December 9th, 2003 10:08:09 PM
Gilan watches as the horde charges down on them and swallows. He mentally runs the numbers through his mind and shakes his head. It is easy to tell that they are outnumbered.
With a last glance to the others he screams once again at the top of his voice. "TALKI FRESAL, DONDIT LIKI!" He then prepares himself to smash his club into the first enemy that draws near.
LOG ON