ADM Carla ["The First Wave"] d100=57 d20+3=15 d20+3=6 d20+3=6 d20+3=14 d20+3=14 d20+3=13 d20+3=21 d20+3=12 d20+3=19 d20+3=4 d20=5 d10=6 d20+1=9 d20+1=6 d20+1=14 d20+1=7 d20+1=4 d20+3=4 d20+3=5 d20+3=4 d20+3=11 Sunday December 14th, 2003 3:34:51 PM
The moon hangs in the sky casting a dim reflection of light as clouds scuttle in front of it. Behind the modest army of protectors the cocoon in it's nest of bones glows dully, as the life within roils and thrashes. The deep beat of some sort of low drum can be heard, punctuated by hornblasts, but more frightening is the rhythmic crunching of hundreds and hundreds of feet marching in unison. As far as the eye can see, a dark crawling thing moves towards the boneyard, the light of torches glinting dully off armour as it advances.
Grymash charges forward huge and terrible, all sound and fury. Half the ranks on the Bloodpack side stop in their tracks, where they fall victim to a volley of arrows and throwing spears launched by the protectors of the cocoon. Ten barbaric raiders break through right in front of the group, but pull up short at the sight of the half-orc and his mightly axe. For a moment there is an ugly startled face, and then nothing but a twisted black corpse as the fellow is toasted. His buddy doesn't have a chance as he is neatly cleaved in half.
Flea's arrow strikes true (#9), as does Anuk's (#3), and Jake's opponent (#4) staggers after the wiry fighter lands his blow.
Liana's attack slams into midsection of a brute (#7) causing him to double over in agony. Gillan smashes at an enemy (#8) but the agile she-orc dodges the blow.
Trellus, standing quietly behind Grymash releases Deep Slumber catching the closest six creatures. Raider #3, #4, #7, #8 succumb, but Grymash is also in range. (Please make a will save DC 13, or fall asleep for 3 rounds.)
Swinging his great axe, a barbarian orc raider (#2) steps over the sleeping #4 to get at Jake, but slips on the gore created by Grymash's attack and swings wildly. #1 Follows suit, but comes swinging for the big half-orc, and misses! #9 and #10 come after Liana, and Gillan respectively, but trip over the slumbering #8.
(Party's initiative!)
(OOC: Map to follow)
Liana (AC17 due to shield spell, HP17, nuetralize poison, Shield d4+1=4 d4+1=2 Monday December 15th, 2003 2:03:16 AM
Upon seeing the 2 raiders coming her way( #9 and #10), she casts magic missle again but this time splits the missle into two to hit them both.(#9 for 4 points damage and #10 for 2 points of damage)
Grymash (ac20/22 against evil, hp54, RAGE, bless, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, barkskin, haste, longstrider, neut. poison, fire breath) d20+6=14 d20+6=25 d20+17=28 d10+15=24 d20+17=30 d10+15=19 Monday December 15th, 2003 12:58:35 PM
Grymash howls in bloody delight from sending the first couple of combatants to Gargul. Suddenly Grymash feels the compulsion of sleep but is barely able to shake it off (Will save 14. Whew, thanks to the +2 morale bonus to Will saves from rage!!)
For a very brief moment, Grymash turns his head back to Trellus. The glare from his blood red eyes focuses hard on the cleric. (Will save 25) The giant berserker, deep down, remains aware that Trellus is on his side. Gry turns back around and attacks the oncoming horde of orc raiders.
Grymash stomps forward to attack the closest raider on his still on his feet (orc10). (Im not sure about distance, but Im assuming it will take more than a 5-ft step). Grymash will step on the sleeping orc in his way. Crushing the helpless grunt (orc8) under his 28 inch feet (2000 pds.) as he swings at the other (orc10. Hit AC 28, for 24 points of damage.)
If another raider (orc9) comes into Gry's reach (10-ft radius), he will take his opportunity to attack. (Hit AC 30, for 19 points of damage)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) d20+8=22 d8+2=4 Monday December 15th, 2003 2:26:48 PM
Trellus casts his spell and watches in horror as it catches Grymash as well. He can't think of anything worse than knocking out the pack's best fighter.
Then, Gry turns around, and young cleric gulps. There's at least one something worse.
Fortunately, Gry still has a bit of control left, and goes back to killing orcs. The cleric surveys the battle, seeing everything seems pretty much under control.
Except Liana. Trellus runs over to her side, pulling his mace as he does. He meets orc #9 and swings mightily. (Hit ac22 for 4hp damage)
Jake (AC 21, hp 37/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+9=26 d10+11=21 Monday December 15th, 2003 2:35:14 PM
Jake engages the orc that has moved to swing at him. (#2 I believe). Pressing his shield to his advantage, he swings his sword and hacks deep into orc flesh, putting all his strength behind his blow. (Power attack) (Hit AC 26, with -5. Did 21 damage. Oh, +2 from morale, so 23 damage. Man, I'm almost keeping up with Gry!)
(Had to go back and write down all the spells cast on me. I think that's it...)
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh] d20+6=26 d20+6=23 2d6(3+5)+3=11 4d6(4+3+2+6)+6=21 Monday December 15th, 2003 6:03:50 PM
Gilan meets orc10 as he/she comes his direction. Seeing that Trellus is on his way to help out Lilian he will try to hold of the other orc for as long as he can.
With a smile he brings his club sailing in at the orcs head (hit: 26 (crit 23)). To his surprise it has more impact behind it than he expected (damage: 11 (crit 21)). For once he feels like he is a part of the group that is actually doing something beside being a sponge.
Flea (AC19, HP28) Domi's Ward, Bless d3+1=4 2d6(4+3)=7 Monday December 15th, 2003 8:01:36 PM
Flea switches her bow to her off hand, and pulls a dagger as she runs towards the sleeping raider (#7). With a swift movement, she slices at the exposed throat. [Coup de Grace=11 dmg]
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, bracers of archery) d20+12=26 d8+2=3 d20+4=7 Monday December 15th, 2003 8:44:58 PM
With a flash another arrow is nocked in Anuk's bow and the string snaps as he looses it on the raider attacking Jake.
(Shoots at #2. Hits AC26 for 3 pts)
Twinge hisses with anxiety, moving into a striking position should any raiders come near.
(hits AC 7)
Carla "Second Wave" d20+8=9 d20+8=16 d20+8=15 d20+6=25 d20+6=15 d20+6=8 d8=4 Monday December 15th, 2003 10:55:28 PM
Liana's missiles streak across the gloom and hit their targets with the sizzle and hiss of their magic. Grymash fights off the sleep spell, and turning his back on his attacker (#1) he steps on the slumbering she-orc in front of Gilan . The female's ribcage gives a sickening crunch, and she momentarily awakes only to descend into the permanant sleep that is death, joined almost immediately by her companions (#9 and #10) as the beserking barbarian finishes off Liana's work.
Trellus, advancing to Liana's rescue takes in the raider stalking the giant half-orc and centers his attack on this opponent (#1). Gillan steps in and with a mightly swing of his club dashes the creatures brains across the field of battle.
Jake's opponent (#2) doesn't have a chance, as he is pierced by Anuk's arrow, and then cleaved in two, shoulder to thigh by the force of the wiry fighter's blow.
Running forward to the nearest sleeping foe, Flea demonstrates her ruthlessness, when with a quick slice of her dagger she administers a Coup de Grace.
Arrows thick as rain come whistling over the pack, clinking and glancing off the armour or the raiders. To the party's right there is a surge forward as raiders attempt to break the ranks of the protectors. Tall and grim, a huge orc slashes with his great axe, a grim reaper collect a gruesome harvest. The small sorceress with the blue smudge under her eye lies disembowled, as her tiny mouse escapes it's pocket and scampers away. The orc and his fellows press on, cutting down the manfri who have no time to launch their flimsy spears against the horrible attackers.
The assailing hosts surge forward, the orc raiders at the front screaming, waving spear and sword and axe as behind them are revealed the cavalry of Baron's men riding their terrible mounts. The Bloodpack find themselves confronted with the cavalry as three mounted bounders break through the raider infantry and attack!
The first attacker singles out the fighter, Jake. The bounder's bite misses, but the rider's long spear jabs down wounding the man (4 HP dmg. from bounder and rider #1). Pulling up in front of the cleric of Domi, the bounder's (#2) jaws snap at air, as the rider's jab is equally off it's mark. The third attacker makes for the most obvious target, but the beast and it's rider also miss on their first attempts made on the mad half-orc, Grymash.
(Party's initiative)
Grymash (ac20/22 against evil, hp54, RAGE2, bless, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, barkskin, haste2, longstrider, neut. poison, fire breath) d20+17=32 d20+15=24 d20+15=29 d10+15=22 d10+15=25 d10+7=14 d20+17=23 d10+15=22 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 1:27:14 AM
Grymash smiles grimly at the mounted bounder that would dare attack him. Through a foam-dripping mouth Gry bellows, "Hee hee, Stupid piggie ... DEAD PIGGIE!!!"
His huge axe spins and cleaves into the soon-to-be-dead piggie bounder and rider. (Hit AC: 32, 24, and 29. For damage: 22, 25 and 14. Total 61 points of damage.)
(If any med-sized or smaller attackers enter my threatened area, Gry will take an attack of opportunity. Hit AC 23 for 22 points of damage)
Liana (AC17 due to shield spell, HP17, nuetralize poison, Shield d4+1=2 d4+1=5 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 9:06:33 AM
The agonizing death cries of others is resounding. She gets her bearings as she looks around quickly and picks out 2 more targets.. (a bounder and its rider as it breaks the calvary line) casting her last magic missle..again splitting it into two missles. (rider=2 points damage, bounder=5 points damage)
(BTW Shield lasts a total of 4 min, so not sure when it will be done)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) d20+8=25 d8+2=4 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 9:15:37 AM
Trellus bails out of the way of tooth and spear as the bounder comes crashing toward him.
"Gry!" he calls, to get the raging orc to look his way.
Dude, you're supposed to stay out of direct combat he reminds himself as he swings his mace, and busts the bounder in the nose.
Grymash d20+6=20 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 9:38:15 AM
(Will save 20) Gry shouts back, "Huhhh!!???"
Jake (AC 21, hp 33/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+9=12 d20+9=17 d10+13=23 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 12:20:34 PM
Remembering what he does about bounders, Jake decides to take out the rider first. Ignoring the gnashing jaws of the awesome beast in front of him, he puts all his strength behind his swing and thrusts forward with his sword, giving out a cry of "KIyaaaaaaa!" as he does so. (Another power attack, hit AC 12...I think I'll burn a hero point. On the reroll, hit AC 17. If I did hit, I'll do 23 damage.)
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, bracers of archery) d20+12=21 d8+2=8 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 2:19:44 PM
As raiders begin to fall, Anuk develops a grim smile, until suddenly the mounted raiders appear. When Jake is speared, Anuk cries out, "NO!!" and sends an arrow speeding toward the mounted orc.
(rider #1 hits AC21 for 8pts)
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh] d20+6=12 2d6(3+3)+3=9 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 4:55:08 PM
Gilan moves to get in behind the rapke and rider that attacked Trellus a few minutes ago. He tries to bring his club in at the rider's back with as much force as he can muster (hit: 12, damage: 9).
He takes a quick glance around to see what is happening and to see if anyone needs any immediate help.
Flea (AC19, HP28) Domi's Ward, Bless d20+11=13 d20+7=20 d3=2 2d6(2+6)=8 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 7:40:48 PM
Feeling ruthless after taking the life of the orc raider (#7) Flea tumbles (Tumble=13) into a flanking position behind the bounder attacking the Bloodpack's cleric and plunges her dagger into it's hide (Hit AC 20, for HP dmg, 8 pts sneak attack dmg)
ADM Carla "Second Wave, continued..." d20+4=9 d20+4=19 d20+8=28 d20+4=16 d20+8=13 d12+4=15 d20+6=15 d20+4=8 d20+4=13 d20+8=21 d12+4=10 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 8:11:45 PM
As the cocoon bulges and glows behind the army protecting it, the villains press forward.
Grymash dispatches his foe, and stands behind a pile of unidentifiable carrion.
Liana fires successfully on the bounder and rider (#2) attacking Trellus, while the cleric connects with his mace. The druid misses, while Flea's dagger sinks into the mount's flesh, after she barely escapes the beasts swipe. In a rage the beast swings 'round at Gillan, barely missing the druid, but spying the huge half orc. It rears up, then chomps down (Hit AC 28, for 15 pts. dmg) on Grymash, as its claws scrape along the steel grass armour that protects his chest. The rider struggles to control his mount as he jabs down at the cleric of Gargul, and misses.
With a mighty thrust of his sword, Jake dispatches the rider (#1), while Anuk wings the bounder. Squealing in pain, the bounder swipes wildly at the fighter with both claws. Missing on both attempts, it then attacks with razor sharp teeth, ripping into Jake with brutal savagery (Hit AC 21, for 10 pts. damage.)
(Party's initiative.)
OOC: Liana's shield would last 4 rounds.
Grymash (ac20/22 against evil, hp54/39, RAGE3, bless, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, barkskin, haste3, longstrider, neut. poison, fire breath) d20+17=28 d20+15=27 d20+15=35 d20+15=21 d10+15=24 d10+15=25 d10+7=16 d10+7=9 d10+7=17 d20+17=24 d10+15=20 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 9:05:05 PM
Grymash roars with fury. He doesnt seem to notice his wound as he brings his steel down upon flesh.
Grymash will take his 5-ft step over the bodies, if bounder and rider die, toward the last bounder thats attacking Jake. If Gry is within reach of the bounder (since Im not sure about distances), Grymash will take his attack of opportunity since the bounder is attacking someone else from his threatened area.
(AT. of Opp. Hit AC 24 for 20 points.)
Anuk ((AC 20, bless, point blank shot, bracers of archery, seal of whooping, favored enemy, rapid shot) d20+14=32 d20+14=30 d8+6=12 d8+6=10 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 9:37:46 PM
Anuk's smile changes to a look of horror as the bounder tears into his friend. Offering a silent prayer to any gods that may be listening, Anuk quickly reaches down to touch a small seal embedded in the hem of his cloak.
(Activates seal of whooping: +4 to hit and damage for 1 round. OOC: I'm not sure if activating a seal is a free action or a standard action. I'm going to treat it as a free action and use my rapid shot feat.)
Anger fueling his actions, Anuk fires two arrows into the bounder. Each arrow rips into its hide and nearly disappears from sight from lodging so deeply inside the creature.
(hits AC32 and AC30 for 26 total points of damage (forgot to add an extra +2 to each of my damage rolls for fighting a favored enemy))
(IF Anuk CANNOT use his rapid shot feat, then one arrow hits AC34 for 14 points of damage)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) 2d8(1+4)+3=8 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 10:28:34 PM C'mon Gry Trellus thinks as he engages the bounder, I got your attention, now come on over and...
SLASH HACK CRUNCH
"Yeah! Waxed pick, Gry!"
The cleric drops his mace, and takes a quick step behind the raging half orc as he pulls out a wand and taps him lightly on the shoulder. (Cure Moderate Wounds - heal 8 hp)
Liana (AC17 due to shield spell, HP17, nuetralize poison, Shield) d20+2=21 d4=2 Tuesday December 16th, 2003 11:39:59 PM
She will take a quick glance to see what is happening. Removing her sling from her side she loads a bullet, dropping her staff as she does so and aims at the bounder attacking Jake. (hit AC21 for 2 pts damage)
(assuming she is within range, she gets a -2 for non proficient weapon with the sling)
Jake (AC 21, hp 23/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+9=21 d10+13=21 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 12:27:35 AM
Jake draws his breath in at the pain but smiles in pure excitement. Adrenalin rushing through him, he gives out another cry as he brings all his force crushing down with his sword onto the rapke's shoulder, curving towards its chest. In his mind, he's having the time of his life..
(Hit AC 21, if I successfully hit I did 21 damage.)
Flea d20+11=23 d20+6=25 Wednesday December 17th, 2003 11:57:14 PM
Flea tumbles out of the way of the front line fighters and back behind Trellus, nearer to Anuk. She looks towards the sounds of combat for trouble (Spot=25)
ADM Carla "Third Wave" d20+5=9 d20+5=18 d12+4=15 d20+6=17 d20+6=18 Thursday December 18th, 2003 12:37:12 AM
The bounder and rider (#2) are no match for the half-orc barbarian, as he gives in to his rage. Grymash makes it over to Jake's side, in time to witness the wiry fighter dispatch a beast (#1) mortally wonded by attacks from Anuk and Liana.
The celebrating is short lived as two orc raiders shake off the slumber spell and rush at the exposed cleric and wizard. Trellus' attacker (#4) misses, but the ugly brute (#3) on Liana swings (hit AC 18 for 15 pts. dmg) with disastrous results for the party's newest member.
The sky crackles with electricity and Flea notices a huge form blocks out the stars in the firmament as the smell of ozone and sand is stong in the air. The already hot night becomes stiffling. A loud and horrible scream pierces the air. The recognition that it is rapke doesn't lessen the effect it has on the pack. (Will Save DC 12, or be Stunned for 1d4 rounds.) Two rapke come at the party from the outside swiping at Jake (#1) and Gilan (#2) and barely missing.
Looking about it seems the line of protectors is falling back.
(Party's initiative.)
Grymash (ac20/22 against evil, hp54/47, RAGE4, bless, enlarge, prot./evil, bull str, barkskin, haste4, longstrider, neut. poison, fire breath) d20+6=20 d20+17=30 d20+15=26 d20+15=16 d20+15=23 d10+15=21 d10+15=19 d10+7=15 d20+17=36 d10+15=21 Thursday December 18th, 2003 2:23:27 AM
(Will Save 20)
The shrill of the rapke fills Grymash with hatred so foul that it leaves a very bitter taste in his mouth. A taste much like stinky dungsucker beetles. A "treat" introduced to Gry by Gilan as a joke.
Grymash bellows, "NO ... MORE ... DUNGSUCKKEERRRRSSS...AUUGHHHH!!!" His double axe comes down on the dungsucking rapke attacking Jake. (Hit AC: 30, 26, 16, hero point 23. Damage: 21, 19, and 15. For a total of 55 points.)
(If the rapke entered my 10-ft reach and attacked Jake, Gry gets an attack of opportunity. Hit AC 36 for 21 points of damage.)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) 2d8(3+4)+3=10 d20+9=22 Thursday December 18th, 2003 9:24:19 AM
(OOC - BLESS gives +1 bonus on that will save!)
Will save 22 Trellus barely notices the Rapke scream. He's got plenty of other things to worry about.
This totally bites. Jake's hurt, Liana's really hurt, Gilan's about to get hurt, and I'm weavin' with two Raiders holding nothing but a healing wand.
Trellus takes a deep breath. This could hurt
The young cleric steps away from his attacker (#4), and between the mage and her attacker (#3). He taps her with his wand as he readies for the coming blow. (Cure Moderate Wounds heals 10 hp on Liana)
"'Nuk! Jake! Get over here!"
Liana/AC18 due to shield/12 HP/nuetralize poison/shield d20+3=15 d8+1=2 Thursday December 18th, 2003 1:01:33 PM
((ouch!!))
The blow she took drives her to her knees. She is in too much pain to notice the Rapke scream.(will save=15) She feels a bit better when Trellus heals her with his wand. She gets her own wand out and hits herself with it.(CLW=2 yeehah)
Stephen ooc: Healing Thursday December 18th, 2003 1:09:02 PM
(House rule: You can reroll 1's when rolling how much you heal from a heal spell. So Kelly, you can reroll that 1.)
Liana/AC18 due to shield/13 HP/nuetralize poison/shield d8+1=3 Thursday December 18th, 2003 1:36:33 PM
((Thanx Stephen..thats a bit better, not much though! *laughs*))
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] d20+13=18 d20+6=18 2d6(1+4)+3=8 Thursday December 18th, 2003 4:04:10 PM
Gilan ignores the screams of the rapke as he concentrates on his own skin for the moment. As if feeling the flow of the battle around him he will start to retreat, but not before bringing his club in at the rapke that attacked him (hit: 19, damage: 8).*forgot about bless*
Take a glance around he confirms his assumption and looks around to the rest of the group. "The protectors are falling back...I suggest we do the same a little at a time." He hopes that they will make it back far enough to keep everyone alive.
Jake (AC 21, hp 23/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+2=7 d4=4 Thursday December 18th, 2003 4:50:40 PM
Jake's shield meets the rapke's flesh, but he is knocked back by the sound of the shrieking. He stumbles backwards, his ears filled with ringing echoes of the rapke's screaming, and he can't seem to find his strength... (Stunned for 4 rounds. Ugh.)
(ADM Carla: Jake should count +2 for Heroism, and +1 for Bless, but alas, still too low!)
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, bracers of archery) d20+4=17 d20+2=9 d20+12=24 d8+2=10 Thursday December 18th, 2003 5:34:31 PM
(Will saves: Anuk-17, Twinge-9)
Anuk breathes a sigh of relief as the towering figure of Grymash makes its way over to Jake. He'll be better off now, Anuk thinks.
Suddenly the rapke's terrible cry fills the air on the battlefield. Steeling himself, Anuk ignores it as he looks for another victim. He hears Trellus' call and looks to see the cleric healing the fallen Liana despite the danger to himself. Targeting the raider nearest Trellus, he lets another arrow fly. It finds its way through a chink in the orc's armor and strikes home.
(#3 hits AC24 for 10pts)
"I'm on my way, Trellus!!" C'mon, Twinge...let's go!" Charging forward, he stows his bow over his shoulder and prepares to draw his longsword. He comes to a stop just outside of the orc's reach.
He fails to notice that Twinge is not with him. The green form of the snake stays fearfully behind a stone.
Flea(AC 19 ,HP 28) Domi's Ward, Bless d20+5=14 d20+6=17 d3+1=2 Thursday December 18th, 2003 7:40:20 PM
When he placed Flea under the protection of his god, Trellus provided the gnome with a very great gift, since the added protection makes all the difference in her ability to fight off the horrifying scream of the rapke (Will Save=14) and attack creatures that would otherwise give her reason to run away.
As the cleric moves to minister to the fallen Liana, Flea cries "Look out, Trellus!" then moves forward and plunges her knife into the nearest assailant (orc raider #3, hit AC 17 for 2 pts. dmg.)
ADM Carla "Third Wave, continued..." d20+6=18 d20+6=18 d20+12=28 d12+8=13 d20+6=24 d20+6=22 d4+2=6 d4+2=6 d20+12=13 d20+5=13 d20+10=16 d20+10=16 d20+10=29 d20+10=13 d20+10=26 d20+10=30 d20+10=11 d20+10=16 Thursday December 18th, 2003 8:47:33 PM
Despite a valiant defence by the protectors of the cocoon, the assailants start to make inroads as abominations of the natural rapke enter the fray striking fear in the hearts of the combattants, and wreaking havoc with tooth and claw.
Moving to Jake's defense Grymash smashes at the reptilian monstrocity albeit failing to end it's life, while Jake trembles in uncharacteristic fear.
Trellus makes the supreme sacrifice, and goes to Liana's aid. Anuk provides effective cover, while Flea ends the unfortunate's (OR#3)life with a quick slice of her dagger.
Gilan unsuccessfully tries to defend himself with his club, but misses. The rapke scrapes at the druid with it's claws, but effects no damage until it bites down on the man (Hit AC 28 for 13 pts. dmg).
Ignoring the cowering half-elf, the severely injured rapke focuses on it's tormentor and rakes the rabid half-orc with it's razor-like claws (Hit AC 24, and 22 for 12 pts. dmg), missing with its bite.
Domi must be watching his cleric because, the surviving raider swings his great axe wildly in the direction of the blonde youth and misses!
On the far right of the battle, a massive wall of fire shoots up into the sky, as shrill screams and shouts in Plains language ring throught the air. Dark shadows run through the night and back towards the shimmering cocoon. A whoosh of hot air blows against the pack, as something huge moves through the night sky and alights effortlessly at a distance in front of the pack. As the cleric of Gargul looks up he feels a burning stare bearing down on him, singling him out from the pack. From the dark, a deep voice resonates, chanting words incomprehensible to the half-orc, although he can sense he is the spell's focus. (Dispel Magic - Bless, Enlarge, Prot./Evil, Barkskin, Haste, Neut. Poison (gone) Bulls Strength, Longstrider (kept).)
With a rush of air, and a crackle of electricy, the goremoth and the shaman are gone!
(Party's Initiative.)
(OOC: Need a 1d4 roll for Twinge, and a UMD roll DC 20 for Liana to discharge the wand (see p. 85 PHB))
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith, casting defensively) d20+11=24 Thursday December 18th, 2003 9:29:37 PM
Trellus raises a quick eyebrow when Liana uses a divine wand on herself. Ask about that pick later
Continuing to pretty much ignore the rabid orc trying to take his head off, the cleric concentrates on getting a spell off and his shield up at the same time. He manages it somehow, sending a calming wave over Jake.
(Defensively Cast Remove Fear, no AoO. Successfully cast spell with Concentration check 24 vs DC 17. Suppresses the fear effect on Jake for 10 minutes)
"'Nuk, take this guy. Flea, help me and Gilan."
Trellus leaves the orc raider and moves over behind the druid.
"Gry's too shuttlecocked to pull back," he tells Gilan. "We gotta cut some threads first."
Jake (AC 21, hp 23/37, Calm Emotions, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+12=23 d10+10=18 Friday December 19th, 2003 12:42:50 AM
Jake is pulled out of his fear by Trellus. "Thanks, Trell, I don't know what bit me...YAaaaaa!" He launches himself in the air and swings at the rider of the rapke, keeping some of his strength back. (Power attack at +2, hit AC 23, did 18 damage to the rider.)
Grymash (ac19, hp35/54, RAGE5, bull str, longstrider, fire breath, other effects in limbo this round) d20+13=22 d20+13=29 d8+14=18 d8+7=13 Friday December 19th, 2003 1:34:16 AM
Grymash's rage is fueled even more. With his bloodied axe shaking high in the air, Grymash becomes increasingly angry that the huge flying beast ran away, in fear of Gry obviously, and that his axe never got to taste its blood. "AUUGGGGHHHHH ... GRRROOWWWLLAAAUGGGHH ... cough, cough ... EERRRROOOOWWWWWLLL!!!"
The wounded rapke stares upon its executioner as his axe chooses to drink its blood instead. (Hit AC: 22, 29 for 18 and 13 damage. Total 31 points of damage.)
Liana/AC18 due to shield/10 HP/nuetralize poison/shield d8+1=3 d4=4 d20+1=17 Friday December 19th, 2003 12:29:44 PM
So the wand didn't work. She will spend this round looking around. She picks up her staff as well. Glances to Trellus. "Thank you..I have a similar wand." She points to the wand tucked in her belt. "I can't use it, If you need it, feel free to use it on me or anyone else..."
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 21/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] d20+7=27 d20+7=12 2d6(6+2)+3=11 4d6(6+5+4+2)+6=23 Friday December 19th, 2003 8:40:07 PM
Gilan bites back the pain form the wound that the rapke just inflicted on him. He nods to what Trellus is saying but is a little preoccupied to reply to him.
Maybe with a little desperation he swings his club at the rider (hit: 27*crit 12*, damage: 11*crit 23*). This impact is not that jarring but it is at least another showing of him not being totally useless in a fight.
Flea(AC 19 ,HP 28) Bless d20+11=27 d20+6=7 Friday December 19th, 2003 11:27:31 PM
Unsure which way to go, Flea looks to the cleric for direction. When Trellus moves behind the druid, Flea dives (Tumble=27) by the rapke (#2) to come up on the side opposite Gillan. Her dagger in hand, she attempts a stab at the beast, but the blade just bounces off the tough hide.
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, rapid shot, bracers of archery) d4=2 d20+10=25 d20+10=23 d8+2=9 d8+2=4 Sunday December 21st, 2003 6:14:37 PM
(OOC: sorry about forgetting to roll for Twinge...got a 2, so this is the second round he is stunned.)
"Nice one, Flea," says Anuk as he watches the nimble gnome make quick work of the raider he had struck earlier. "Very shady."
Keeping his sword sheathed, he draws his bow again and turns to face the nearby raider. "C'mon, big fella," he says. The bow's string snaps twice in quick succession and two arrows fly toward their target.
(#4 - first arrow hits AC 25 for 9 pts, the second hits AC 23 for 4 pts)
"Not bad, eh Twinge?...Twinge?"
The snake continues to cower behind his rock.
ADM Carla "Third Wave, continues..." d2=2 d20+6=24 d20+6=14 d20+12=13 d4+2=3 d20+6=20 d20+6=11 d20+12=27 d4+2=4 d12+8=12 Sunday December 21st, 2003 8:52:09 PM
Trellus rallys his troups, freeing up Jake, and directing the others. Jake goes after the rapke, and misses by a hair, but Grymash smotes it mightily.
The rapke screams in pain, and rakes at the half-orc, drawing blood with one of it's claws (Hit AC 24, for 3 pts. dmg.) then snaps it's jaws at empty air.
Liana tries her hand at some difficult magic, but is unsuccessful. Gillan hits hard, giving his rapke it's first wound, while Flea gets into a flanking position but is ineffectual with her dagger. The furious beast ignores the gnome, going after the druid with tooth and claw (claw hit AC 20 for 4 pts, dmg, bite hit AC 27 for 12 pts dmg.)
Anuk covers Trellus back, and successfully takes down the raider.
The air is heavy and hot, as smoke and soot from the raging fire wall are cast into the sky only to fall on the defending host. The incessant drumming continues punctuated now and then by the sour blasts of an enemy horn. The enemy horde surges forward, answered by manfri spear throwers who rain their light, flexible and deadly weapons down on the raiders. Still the baron's men press onward towards the glistening cocoon. On the left, a group of extremenly tall, and thin men in robes and large hats of woven grass, climb in a wedge over a particularly difficult heap of bones towards the enemy. As they start to hum and chant, the riders of the rapke struggle to control their mounts. There is a roar, like thunder behind the pack as the cocoon starts to rend. Bright light shoots up into the sky from the tears on it's surface.
(OOC: Please e-mail me if you are not able to post over the holidays.
Grymash (ac19, hp32/54, RAGE6, bull str, longstrider, fire breath) d20+13=17 d20+13=21 d20+13=30 d8+14=21 d8+7=14 Monday December 22nd, 2003 12:39:32 AM
Rage ... RAGE, blood boiling, heart blackening, bone splintering RAGE! Steely knives, fang and claw, hacking bashing mashing maw. Flesh cleaving riping and bleeding, salty cleansing, coagulating. Muscles taut, hard veined like marble, wielding tools of death most horrible. Again and again, blades keep swinging. Insatiably gorged with crimson feeding. Dual ax charges the beast to fall, roaring half-orc heralds deaths grim call.
(Attacking rapke. Hit AC 17 hero point, 21, 30. Damage 21 and 14. Total: 35 points of damage. Im running out of ways to say he's raging!)
Liana/AC18 due to shield spell/HP10/nuetralize poison d20+2=18 Monday December 22nd, 2003 1:58:49 AM
Her shield spell wears off and she casts another(her last one) upon herself and then readies her sling once more and aims at one of the Barons men who rush towards the cocoon.(hit AC 18)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) 2d8(8+1)+3=12 Monday December 22nd, 2003 9:12:10 AM
Trellus takes a quick look around. Other than Gilan, everybody seems shady. Whatever's happening with the cocoon can wait.
"Help is coming, dude" he encourages the druid, "just hold on."
The cleric taps Gilan with the wand in his hand. Need the stronger one, but no time (Cure Moderate Wounds heals 12 hp on Gilan)
Jake (AC 21, hp 23/37, Calm Emotions, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+14=22 d20+14=30 d20+16=21 d10+8=12 d10+8=17 Monday December 22nd, 2003 11:54:25 AM
(If the Rapke he faces is still alive) Jake feels Gry smash into the creature, hard. If it's still alive, he adds a much more calculated slash, this time using all his precision to get through the heavy hide of the beast. (Hit AC 22...knowing this would miss, I used a hero point (my last! *sniff*), and hit AC 30. Did 12 damage) (if Grymash killed the rapke) Jake sees the Baron's men moving up, and can't let them proceed any further. Even though it might mean his death, he charges, alone, right at their ranks, swinging wildly and yelling, "you'll have to come through me first!" (Hit AC 21 with my charge bonus. Did 17 damage)
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 21/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] d8+1=7 Monday December 22nd, 2003 3:45:59 PM
Gilan glances to Trellus and smiles, nodding in thanks. He steps back away from the rapke and rider as he switches the potion he has been holding in his shield hand. He activates one of the little discs on his armor (seal of liquid sharing) and downs it in one gulp.
He then warily watches the rapke and rider as he pulls his shield into position. "We need to get Gry over here to cut this things thread." He hopes that Trellus will take the hint and try to get Gry to help them out if possible.
*seal of liquid sharing: when you activate this seal with a free-action, you must also use a Standard Action to drink a potion. The magic of this potion is experienced by every being in your party for a duration of one round. Both the potion effect and the seal effect end after that one round.*
Flea d20+6=17 d20+11=26 Monday December 22nd, 2003 7:25:00 PM
The rogue grunts as she takes another stab at the rapke. Realising that she has put herself in a precarious position, she dives back towards her back. (Tumble=26)
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, rapid shot, bracers of archery) d20+10=27 d20+10=15 d8+2=9 Monday December 22nd, 2003 8:07:15 PM
Anuk takes careful aim at the rider on the rapke approching Gilan. He shoots and the arrow is embedded in the raider's side.
(#2 - hits AC27 for 9pts)
Hoping to finish the rider off, he fires again. But in his hurry his aim is sloppy and the arrow flies wide of the mark, disappearing into the night.
(#2 - hits AC15)
Twinge moves from his hiding place and moves quickly to Anuk's side.
ADM Carla "The Beginning of the End" d20+6=25 d20+6=12 d4+2=4 d20+12=25 d12+8=20 Monday December 22nd, 2003 11:43:28 PM
Dark figures are silhouetted against the glowing light of the cocoon. As the thing within struggles to emerge, the nest of bones appears on the verge of being overrun by the enemy army. The odour of ozone is once again strong as a wave of hot air rushes down from above.
With a mighty heave of his axe Grymash rends the rapke and the beast's eyes go dull, as it thuds to the ground. Jake runs towards the baron's men who are swinging to the right of the group in an effort to climb the nest of bones. The fighter runs headlong into the rapke attacking Gilan, and he slices at it, cutting it deeply, while Flea misses. Liana's slug becomes part of a defensive barrage of stones and darts sent to the baron's men by the manfri defenders.
Trellus and Gilan share the gift of healing with the pack.
The only threat within immediate range, the rapke that had previously threatened Gilan, now swings wildly at the pesky fighter, Jake, hitting with it's first claw (claw hit AC 25 for 4 pts damage). Before the half-elf can recover he is plucked off the ground, as terrible jaws clamp down on him. Swinging wildly side to side as it grinds down, the rapke eventually drops the limp figure of the fighter in a bloody heap in front of the pack.(Bite hit AC 25 for 20 pts dmg.)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) 2d8(6+4)+3=13 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 8:15:09 AM
"Gilan?!" Trellus asks incredulously as the druid steps away from the rapke to take a potion. Which leaves the cleric face to face with the treadle, and that wasn't in the plan at all.
Jake comes to his rescue and pays for it dearly. "GRY!" Trellus bellows. Just look over here, Gry. Look over here and see the live rapke. C'mon dude.
Trying to keep his shield between himself and those teeth, the blond man steps to Jake and taps him with the wand in his hand. (Cure Moderate Wounds heals 13 hp)
Next time, pull the big wand first he reminds himself.
Grymash (ac19, hp40/54, RAGE7, bull str, longstrider, fire breath) d20+6=25 d20+14=18 d20+14=34 d20+14=29 d8+14=20 d8+14=19 d8+14=21 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 12:53:28 PM
Grymash seems disoriented with the sudden fall of the rapke. His focus broken from the rapke brings all the sounds of battle crashing in around him. He whips his head back and forth, knocking slobber in every direction.
Upon hearing the words GRY shouted in his direction (will check 25), he becomes aware that it's his name being called. Grymash spins around and faces Trellus and his pack. Upon sight of the rapke and the fallen half-human, his eyes widen once again with fury.
Grymash's grimacing expression gives way to an explosion of rage in the sound of a deafening roar. The half-orc comes charging at his foe. Axe in hand and arched back ready to bite into rapke flesh.
(Hit AC: 18 last hero point, 34 crit threat, 29 crit. Damage: 20, 19, 21. Total 60 points of damage. Warning: Rage ends this next round!)
Jake (AC 21, hp 18/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+9=28 d20+9=13 d10+13=22 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 1:27:03 PM
Jake, horribly wounded, is saved from unconsciousness by the magical seal that Gilan had activates...somehow, the healing liquid swelled throughout his body, not for much, but enough that he didn't fall after the bite. He remains hunched over, gasping for breath, and when Trellus taps him with the wand, healing again goes through him. After Grymash's devastating attack, the Rapke is probably no longer standing, but regardless, Jake draws all his energy in, yells out and jumps forward, swinging his sword deep into it with all his strength. Then he pants over the body. "I'm okay," he gasps repeatedly. (power attack -5, Hit AC 28, no crit tho, did 22 damage to it, regardless of if it's dead or not...)
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 21/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] d8+4=11 d20+2=10 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 5:27:46 PM
Gilan glances to Trellus and shrugs his apology before speaking. "Sorry about that...found myself in a bad way." He had not really meant to leave his friend in the way of great harm, it had been an impulse on his part.
With a look back to the fight he sees Jake go down to one knee and moves forward as well. He may have put Trellus at risk last time but he would not see Jake also pay for him. He goes to one knee by Jake as he sees Gry come in with that big axe. He gently lays his hand on Jake after laying his club down. He hits him with a little bit of nature's healing (cure 11hps) as he glances around (con 10 if hit).
Anuk (AC 20, bless, point blank shot, rapid shot, bracers of archery) d20+12=24 d8+2=5 d20+9=13 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 9:33:55 PM
Anuk watches the attacks on the rapke and waits for an open shot on the beast. When one appears, he fires.
(Hits AC24 for 5 pts)
He rushes toward the other members of the pack and stands guard while the wounded are healed.
(Spot 13 (15 if rapke or bounder because of favored enemy))
Liana d20+2=17 d4=1 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 10:15:49 PM
She will stand watch with her sling ready to go, this time firing at Rapke. (Hit AC17 for 1 point damage)
Flea d20+6=7 Tuesday December 23rd, 2003 11:57:11 PM
The rogue studies the sky, in an effort to discern what is out there, but only sees darkness. (Spot=7)
ADM Carla "Beginning of the End, continued..." Wednesday December 24th, 2003 12:13:31 AM
Trellus gets Grymash to redirect his attention, and the half-orc makes quick work of dispatching the last rapke threatening the group. Jake slices at the bloody mass for good measure, as his grievous wounds start the healing process after the laying on of hands by Gilan, while Liana stands guard with her sling.
Flea can't make out anything in the dark sky, but Anuk notices that although the Bloodpack has dispatched the enemy in their vicinity, the battle hasn't been going so well closer to the cocoon. The ranger spots a familiar figure silhouetted against the cocoon. It is Black, the plainswalker. Standing on the edge of the nest of bones, he waves to the pack and calls, "To me! To me!"
Climb check DC 10 to reach the side of the longstrider.
(OOC: During the next few days, I will delay ADM posting until everyone has been able to respond. No PC's will be killed for lack of posting over the holidays.)
Grymash (ac19, hp32/48, bull str, longstrider, fire breath) d20+4=18 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 2:22:40 AM
Grymash holds his axe into the air and shouts out a victorious roar. Suddenly a dramatic change transforms the half-orc. His arms drop to his side as his weapon becomes heavy in his hands. Grymash falls to one knee from the sudden onset of fatigue. He's drenched in sweat mixed with the blood of rapke, orc and his own. Streams of drool and mucus flow from his mouth and nose. Grymash's overall appearance becomes a stark contrast to the raving lunatic the pack just witnessed a few short seconds before.
Grymash looks up with a teary bloodshot gaze to any pack member near him. "Pack ok? Everybodies doin' good," questions Grymash breathlessly? He coughs and spits to clear his throat. "Do Gry ...," pausing to gasp for air, "kill good?"
After hearing Black yell for them, Grymash now uses his bloodied double axe as a crutch to lift himself from his knelt position. "Lets go, Black need pack help!"
Grymash is too tired to run or charge, but powerful magics keep him fleet of foot. However it doesnt make his climb any easier in his near exhausted state. (Climb check, with -2 Armor check penalty, is 18.)
Thankfully in his weakened state Grymash can still muster plenty of strength to haul himself up the nest. He grunts with every step. (Gry's movement is 50-ft, 100-ft if he doubles his movement.)
Flea d20+4=24 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 7:08:47 AM
Flea scrambles quickly through the boney obstacle course to stand beside Black. As she passes Grymash on the way up, she reaches out to give the big guy a pat, and says, "We've all done out best."
(Climb Check=24, nat. 20!)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) 2d8(4+1)+3=8 d8=6 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 9:43:00 AM
Trellus flashes Gilan a quick grin as Gry comes over the top to finish off the rapke.
"Its shady, dude," he answers in reply to the druid's apology. "Just surprised me."
The cleric gives the group a quick once-over. Jake, Gry, and Gilan are hurt, but not dangerously so. Then Black calls to the pack, and the man's heart sinks for a moment. Gry's in no shape for another one. And these dudes still need fixed up. And where's my mace? Light, what do I do first?
Decisions, decisions. Too many decisions. He takes a quick, cleansing breath.
"On our way!" he calls to the Walker.
Trellus taps Jake again with the healing wand, (Cure Moderate Wounds: 13 hp healed [re-rolled the 1]) "Right behind you dudes," he says as he turns and races the other way, picks up his discarded weapon, and then sprints back toward the pile of bones.
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 32/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] d8+4=11 d20+1=11 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 5:13:03 PM
Gilan follows along behind the others as they make their way towards Black where he stands on the pile of bones. With a prayer to the Wold Mother he lays his own hand on himself and channels the powers of nature into his own body (heal 11hps).
Looking to Trellus he smiles and pats the man on the back. "Good thing you don't hold a grudge that is for sure." He continues on his way up the bone pile, just barely keeping his footing as they shift under his weight. "Going to need a long hot bath and a good massage after this...maybe lay out in the soft grass and sun with Kaili." He smiles again as he thinks of his love back in town and a new thought occurs to him...she is another reason why he is doing this.
Jake (AC 21, hp 37/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20-2=9 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 7:44:17 PM
Jake looks fine now, though he's a bit gorey and still breathing hard from the exertion. Seeing the rest of his group rallying about the Walker, Jake takes off after them. With all the gear and weapons he's carrying, it's hard to climb, but since that wall, Jake's been practicying finding his footing...But scrabbling along, he's just weighted down too much to climb the steep surface with all the recent combat. (I have a -10 due to the -1/5 pds I'm carrying. And I suck at rolling. )
Anuk d20+3=15 d20+11=12 d20+9=16 Wednesday December 24th, 2003 11:16:45 PM
"Things are lookin' a little quiet here...let's go help Black and the others."
Anuk works his way up the side of the nest to stand near Black. (Climb 15) Twinge keeps near him all the way to the top. (Climb 12) Bow in hand, Anuk surveys the situation and looks for the best target. (Spot 16 (18 if sighting any rapke or bounders))
ADM Carla "There's Got to be a Morning After" Thursday December 25th, 2003 12:43:15 AM
Fatigued from their endevours, the pack straggles up the pile of bones that is the nest for the cocoon and the thing that is striving to burst out from it. While Jake and Liana try to catch up, the rest of the pack join the walker. The view is vast and horrific. The battle has been fierce and there are many dead from both sides. The defenders appear to have paid the greatest toll and the manfri the greatest of all.
A faint pink cast stains the sky in the east and the shadows are no longer so deep and dark. Anuk notices one star stands out on the horizon. It is large and bright and strong. Gazing upon it, the ranger is filled with a sense of hope.
Grymash (ac19, hp32/48, bull str, longstrider, fire breath) d20+4=14 d20+7=22 d8+4=12 Thursday December 25th, 2003 1:14:41 AM
Grymash finally gets to the top of the bone pile with all the others. From this high spot he can better appreciate the size and scope of the carnage they were just knee deep in. Ever the warrior, even in his fatigued state, Grymash sets his double axe down and pulls out his mighty composite bow. The wood of the bow slightly creaks as Gry draws back an arrow. Taking careful aim he will try and spot a raider attacking a vunerable defender (Spot 14). Once in aim, Grymash lets the arrow go. The arrow shrieks to its target as it cuts through the air.
(Hit AC 22 for 12 points of damage)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith, fly[1]) Friday December 26th, 2003 3:32:39 PM
(I asked Kevin before, and he said the second moon was out.)
Arriving at the bottom of the bone pile, Trellus sees most of the others have made it to the top. And by the looks of Gry's bow, there is still some fighting left.
The man is well aware of his own difficulties in getting all this armor uphill. Instead, he activates a Seal at his side, and lifts off into the air (Fly).
On the way up, he grabs Jake by the armpits and pulls. He can't completely pick his friend up, but he can help lighten the load (+2 assist bonus?). "Time to weave, dude."
(Seal of Night Flying - Fly, as spell, for 2 rounds by light of 2nd moon, Wardd.)
Jake (AC 21, hp 37/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) Saturday December 27th, 2003 3:07:09 AM
"Thanks, Trellus!" Jake manages to get up the hill with the flying guys help. His eyes boggle at Trellus' own means of travel. He looks over the fighting and feels vaguely heartened. The sunrise is always a good thing, he thinks to himself. He looks to the sun coming, and hopes that with it, these creatures flee...
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 32/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] Saturday December 27th, 2003 1:38:48 PM
Gilan watches the small bands of fighting going on and sighs. It was not a good sight with a lot of the defenders dead or dying. He glances to the pack and see that most of them are most likely thinking the same thing.
He watches as Gry lets an arrow fly at one of the attackers and smiles. "At least one of us can be of some use up here." He suddenly wishes that he would have invested in a missile weapon and plans on making it a must get next time he is in town.
Flea d20+6=9 Saturday December 27th, 2003 6:48:28 PM
The rogue stands at the top of the pile of bones and looks out over the battle scene to see what she can see. (Spot=9)
Anuk (AC 20, bless, bracers of archery) d20+11=24 d8+2=3 Sunday December 28th, 2003 1:19:12 AM
Anuk looks with sadness at the bodies of the manfri strewn about the field. Anger at the raiders starts to fill him, gnaw at him, enrage him. He draws an arrow and targets a raider nearby. The missile lands with a sickening thud. (hits AC 24 for 3pts)
He begins to despair at the the monumental task of saving the cocooned creature when he notices the star low on the horizon. As the light of day rises, so do his spirits.
"We can do this!", he shouts to the pack. "Talki fresal dondit liki!!"
Grymash Sunday December 28th, 2003 2:57:33 PM
Grymash shouts with Anuk as best as he can. His voice is dry, hoarse and grating, "TALKI FRESAL DONDIT LIKI!!"
Grymash reaches for another arrow.
ADM Carla "The Sun Also Rises" d20=17 d12=4 d20=18 d12=12 Sunday December 28th, 2003 8:31:05 PM
The stain of the new day spreads on the horizon, and the field of battle is devastation itself. Two loads of rocky debris fly overhead hitting the cocoon at 4 o'clock and 12 o'clock as twin enemy catapults discharge their loads. Where the charge rends the cocoon, beams of bright light shine up into the indigo sky. A roaring sound like the fountain at Rattledam, only ten times magnified, is heard behind the pack as they stand together with Black at the top edge of the bone-nest.
The arrows of the archers Grymash and Anuk strike true while Trellus hovers in the air after helping Jake achieve fair footing. Everyone watches and waits, and an odd stillness descends as a golden slice of the new sun gains tenure on the plateau. The strange quiet is broken when Anuk shouts his loyalty. The ranger's voice is joined by the booming barbarian's, and then a chorus of shouts and cries rises from the parched throats of the defenders of the circle. The cry, "Talki Fresal Dondit Liki" breaks upon the enemy army, who stop, momentarily confused.
But now a dark swooping shadow of vast proportions stretches across the front as a birdlike form, horrible and cruel as death swoops nearer. It ventures almost within bow-shot, then circles away, only to come again as the cocoon is rent end to end with a great roar and pure white light spills out into the sky.
Then, circling once again, the goremoth with it's dark captain swoops and screeches (Will Save DC 20, or be shaken one round) and all about the defenders cower and cover their ears. Yet, what is in the cocoon continues to rise up and it is beautiful and terrible to behold!
(Party's Initiative)
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) d20+9=18 Monday December 29th, 2003 10:08:36 AM
The blond man arrives at the top of the bone pile and takes in the devastation by the light of the rising sun.
He settles to the ground in stunned awe. "Light," he breathes softly.
Wand in hand he heads for Grymash when the huge shadow creature swoops in and lets go its piercing cry. The sounds rips through the young cleric, and all he can do is drop to his knees and cover his ears, trying to block out the horrible sound. (Will 18)
Flea d20=8 Monday December 29th, 2003 3:03:56 PM
The gnome stands beside Black, her shortbow in one hand, her dagger in the other, and surveys the devastation. When the beast shrieks, Flea drops her weapons, and covers her ears with her hands. She bends over and crouches low to the ground, squeezing her eyes shut.
Jake (AC 21, hp 37/37, Heroism, Bless, Neutralize Poison, Bull's Strength) d20+2=5 Monday December 29th, 2003 3:30:04 PM
Jake nearly drops his swords. "Dust! What is that ole thing??" He nervously fidgets, and hopes nobody notices the changing color of his breeches in the midst of the fight. (heh)
Anuk d20+3=16 d20+1=8 Monday December 29th, 2003 4:08:17 PM
Unable to move or look away, Anuk and Twinge gaze fearfully toward the skies as the terrible figure shrieks and crosses over.
(Will saves: Anuk 16, Twinge 8)
Grymash (ac19, hp32/48, bull str, longstrider, fire breath) d20+4=24 d20+7=18 d8+4=7 Monday December 29th, 2003 4:10:38 PM
(Will save 24, nat. 20!!!)
Grymash grimaces as the piercing shrill of the beast assaults his ears. The sounds of the battle are muted by the intense ringing in his head.
Grymash can almost feel RAGE creep upon him at the sight of the shaman, but it fails to come. Aiming now at the Shaman atop the flying beast, Grymash pulls back another arrow as far as he can. The bow strains against the pressure. His fingers begin to bleed as the sting cuts into his flesh. Gry bellows out a curse to the shaman. The foulest curse he could think of at the moment. "DIGA BU CHAKAKA MU SATISH PIGGIE!!" Roughly translated it means, "Die you big pile of dung from a diseased and bloated prairie pig of dubious conception and inferior birth," but not in such nice terms!
Before he lets the arrow fly, Gry shouts out another, "TALKI FRESAL DONDIT LIKI!!"
(Shooting at the shaman. Hit AC 18 for 7 points)
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 32/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] d20+8=11 Monday December 29th, 2003 4:45:05 PM
Gilan continues to stand there looking upon the carnage that lays before them. He cannot help but feel great sorrow for all the lives given this day. "Wold Mother...please look over all those that have died this day and those that may still die." Glancing around to the rest he nods to them, what maybe a farewell to all of them.
Then the rocks fly overhead to slam into the cocoon and he feels anger tug at him with force. But that is soon stalled out as a black shadow falls upon them for a second and then a piercing scream, not unlike the rapke but sharper. He covers his head with his shield as he tries to fight back fear. Dropping his weapon and shield he brings his hands to his ears to check on the sensation of liquid running from them. He finds nothing, but still wants to crawl away and hide.
ADM Carla "A Beginning, and an End" Monday December 29th, 2003 10:06:12 PM
The barbarian shouts his defiance as the rest of the pack cover their ears and try to close their minds to the awful cry of the goremoth.
Suddenly a glowing light emerges from the cocoon, white like sunlight seen through the purest cloud, lighter than air. The monks that had previously climbed the bones begin to hum, and an answering drone comes from the thing emerging from the cocoon.
Crisp, sharp, bolts of lightening streak across the sky, as the dark shadow wheels across the sky with it's rider silhouetted against the slowly ascending sun. With every beat of it's mighty wings, there is the stench of putrifaction.
The light from the cocoon falls back, and something unseen and invisible lifts off. The beat of this new thing's wings sends a cooling sweet air over the combatants. The dark-rider screams in frustration as the sun climbs higher revealing the empty cocoon. A huge shadow covers the ground as the new thing that has emerged takes wing and moves surely over the battle area. The remaining enemy cry out in fear and flee by whatever means they can, as the goremoth wheels 'round once more before flying off and disappearing into the blinding light of the rising sun.
The Grasswalker leans on his sword, and looks at the pack. Covered with filth and gore, streaked with dust, and bleeding from wounds un-mended. Tears slowly course down his cheeks creating rivulets on the dust caked planes of his thin face. Raising his arms to the sky and arching his head back he yells the pledge, "Talki Fresal, Dondit Liki!" and your hearts swell with the knowledge that this day you have done your duty.
(Party's Initiative.)
Flea Monday December 29th, 2003 10:26:25 PM
Flea rises unsteadily to her feet, and witnesses the route of the enemy. She looks at her pack-mates, almost unrecognizable from the hale young adventurers who had set out from Rattledam many days before. She looks at her own hands, covered in the life blood of the raiders she slew. In a voice barely above a whisper, she repeats the creed, "Talki Fresal, Dondit Liki" as a single tear begins it's course down her cheek.
Trellus (ac 20, neutralize poison, bless, shield of faith) Tuesday December 30th, 2003 9:01:03 AM
Trellus looks up fearfully to find the horror has passed. A new day has dawned. The treadles are running, and something wonderful emerged from the cocoon.
They did it.
Revelation comes slowly, and elation follows.
They did it!
"YEAH!" Trellus jumps up, pumping his fist into the air. The need to do something more overtakes him and he casts a spell, throwing it high into the sky. The SOUND BURST explodes over their heads (safely out of the area of effect) like a gigantic firework.
"Talki Fresal, Dondit Liki!" the man roars, gleefully purging himself of all the fear, frustration, and doubt of the past several days.
Anuk Tuesday December 30th, 2003 11:33:16 AM
Dust covered and weak with exhaustion, Anuk stands in awe of what they have just witnessed. He drops his bow slowly to his side and then to the ground as he realizes that they have survived. They're alive.
For the first time in a long while he breaks into a big toothy grin as he watches Trellus' spell burst in celebration. He starts to feel giddy, and the next thing he realizes he's dancing atop the pile of bones, humming a bright little tune he learned as a child, and giggling uncontrollably. He reaches down to the ground and lets Twinge climb up to his shoulders then he stands back up and starts twirling in a circle.
"WOOOHOOOOO!!
Grymash Tuesday December 30th, 2003 12:50:17 PM
The barbarian is a little slow to realize what the heck is going on. He has his hand on another arrow but becomes confused with the sudden sensations of cool wind and heart tickles. Looking back at his pack, Grymash is met with cheering happy faces. He cant hear them well, his ears still buzz and ring with the roar of the flying beast.
His anger turns to pure elation. Gry starts to jump up and down with fists raised in victory. Every attempt to shout and cheer with his pack is silenced by the loss of his voice. But that's alright with Gry, he doesnt care ... he cant hear himself anyway.
In celebration, Grymash blows off the rest of his fire breath into the sky. Adding his bright red light to the streaks of yellow and orange from the coming sun.
Jake Tuesday December 30th, 2003 2:49:06 PM
Jake joins in the cheers, then takes out a skin of glass grass, his last one he brought with him. He pours a large amount into a wooden tankard he usually carries on his belt, sips and laughs, and passes it to Trellus or Grymash. "Ah cannot believe we did it!" He looks over to the other groups and toasts them as well. Then a thought occurs to him. Ah wish ah could ride one of dem things...fly through tha sky...
Gilan (AC: 20, HP: 32/34) [neutralize poison, barkskin, shillelagh,bless] Tuesday December 30th, 2003 4:28:15 PM
Gilan feels the effects of the creature as it bursts out of the cocoon. The flood of warmth breaks through the feelings of fear that the large moth had created earlier. With a look around to the others he cannot help but smile. "We did it...all of the defenders." He looks once again on the carnage that lays on the battlefield, under the dawning light. "So many lost."
He hears the screams from all around him and out on the battlefield. The feelings are infectious and he finds himself throwing back his head. "Talki Fresal, Dondit Liki!" He looks again to the others and his face turns to one of concern. "Anyone needing any healing?" He still has access to his few potions and will use them if needed.
ADM Carla "As the Wyrm Turns" Tuesday December 30th, 2003 5:54:12 PM
A wave of glorious sound bursts over the field of battle as the victors raise their voices in exhaltation. Black rubs at his eyes, and wipes at his face, then turns to the pack. His dark visage streaked with tears and dirt, is split by a huge smile. "You have witnessed a mighty thing this day. Only the greatest of the great wyrms can change into this noble beast we have seen emerge today. It has different names in different places, but here we call it the Drake. Every turn, when it is time for a Drake to be born, the evil ones come. They wish to break the cycle. The men of the baron want to end the cycle, and keep the circle small. They want to end the cycle with the rapke, because they can corrupt the rapke."
In the distance, like a shimmering silver mirage, there is a vague shape outlined against the sky. Although it is almost invisible, the Drake casts an immense shadow over the land as it circles the battle grounds protectively. With every stroke of it's wings, the pack is soothed by a cool, sweet smelling breeze.
Carefully picking his way down from the pile of bones, the walker points to a growing mound at it's base as he gives his instruction, "It is now time to tend the wounded, and collect the spoils of war!"
Flea d20+10=21 Wednesday December 31st, 2003 11:10:17 AM
Flea picks up her weapons and puts the bow away. Wiping at her eyes, and sniffling a little, she follows Black down from the bone pile. Using the blade of her dagger, she pokes around the bodies of the enemy, with hopes that she might find something interesting. (Search=21)
She doesn't wander too far from her pack-mates.
Trellus Wednesday December 31st, 2003 11:25:50 AM
Having released the emotion of the day, Trellus gazes out over the morbid landscape. The sight of a multitude of dead and dying bodies is sufficient to dampen his mood.
He turns back to the task of caring for his packmates, and notes that only Grymash seems to still have wounds.
"Gry," the cleric says, stepping up next to the half orc, "use your feel good stick."
Once his friend is OK, Trellus will turn to follow Black and the others. His eyes flick grimly over the battlefield. The cleric is more concerned with finding any seriously wounded allies he might be able to help rather than 'spoils of war', but he won't pass up anything interesting that catches his eye.
Anuk d20+6=25 Wednesday December 31st, 2003 11:55:46 AM
Anuk retrieves his bow and follows Black and the others. As they descend the bone pile he watches for signs of life from the bodies of those who fell during the night. If he can help any of the wounded get out of the heat of the rising sun, if he can offer them water to comfort them, or if he can simply staunch the flow of blood coming from a dying comrade (Heal 25), he does.
Grymash d20+5=20 d8+1=8 d8+1=8 d8+1=2 d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d8+1=8 d8+1=3 d8+1=2 d8+1=9 d8+1=5 d8+1=4 d8+1=7 Wednesday December 31st, 2003 4:56:39 PM
After putting down several swallows of Jake's Glass Grass, Gry is able to get limited use of his voice again.
"Whut?!" blurts the half-orc. Grymash probes his ears with his pinky. After taking stock of the contents retrieved from each ear, Grymash replies back to Trellus, "Gry not hear ... good wit ... da buzzin'."Grymash moistens his finger and continues digging through his left ear (heal check 20) and manages to clear it up some.
With a raspy voice Grymash continues, "Gry gonna get out feel good stick ... many no ready for Gargul yet. Trellus should get out better feel good stick too. Many hurt. Then Gry help dead find Gargul." Grymash pulls his holy symbol out, that hangs from his neck, from underneath his armor and begins to administer to the wounded, dying and dead.
(Ten charges from wand: 8,8,4,6,8,3,9,5,4 & 7)
Grymash looks up after healing a wounded manfri. He is angered by the severity of his wounds and yells, "Any ORCS still livin' are for GRYYY!!"
Gilan d20+8=21 Wednesday December 31st, 2003 4:57:21 PM
Gilan makes his way back down the mound to those that lay out on the battlefield. With a critical eye he starts to check out the bodies of fallen defenders. He tries to help those out with his mundane healing abilities that are in the most serious shape (heal 21).
Several of the defenders that he comes upon are rended to pieces and most obviously dead. He tears himself away to go onto those that he can actually help out...prayers will have to come later. "A heavy price we have paid...but the one we protected was well worth it...the cycle stays unbroken." It is actaully a bitter-sweet victory that he hopes he will never have to experience again...but knows he will.
Tiev and Zilia Wednesday December 31st, 2003 5:07:17 PM
In the light of the new day, two wasps weave their way over the area in what appears to be some sort of pattern. Any who would observe them, might think they were searching for something, or someone.
Jake Wednesday December 31st, 2003 7:22:11 PM
Not knowing how to help bandage or such, Jake does his part by going to check for booty amongst the enemies and finishing off any that seem bluffing death or might still be a threat. It's a bloody task, he grimly thinks to himself, but a guy's gotta do, what a guy's gotta do.
ADM Carla Wednesday December 31st, 2003 8:49:06 PM
While Flea and Jake add booty to the growing pile being accumulated by the victors, Trellus, Anuk, Gry and Gilan minister to the wounded. Any mortally wounded enemy are quickly dispatched to Gargul with a slice of Jake's blade or a chop of Gry's axe.
While clerics and other healers move across the battlefield searching for survivors, members of other packs along with the walkers who have been their guides and mentors reverently pile the dead at the base of the bone nest. Not far from the Bloodpack, the walker-woman with the long grey hair gently lays out the broken bodies of the little manfri pack with the blue marks on their left cheek. Her only helper is Liana. With a mornful look in her eye, the wizard approaches her former pack and explains that she can not go on with them. The bereft strider is her aunt, and Liana feels she must stay with her, and help her deal with her grief over the lost pack.
The Mankife appears near the elbow of the walker-woman, who bows her head and takes a step back. Waving a small square of red cloth the Mankife raises both his hands up to the sky and chitters and clicks in his language. A swarm of flying beetles descends upon the bodies of the dead pack. In seconds the bodies are picked clean, leaving nothing but white bone. This scene is repeated as other druids and mages exercise the death-rites of the Plains.
When the sun has passed it's zenith, Black leads the pack back towards the bluff, where the little skiff awaits. "You have fought well, children of Rattledam" he says, "Malafret and the council will be advised. Now, here is your share of the spoils of war!"
Placed inside the skiff are the following:
1 Mace 1 Longsword Bracers of Armour Shield(large, steel) Case of Potions:( 2 red stoppers, 2 green stoppers, 1 blue stopper, 1 black stopper) Scroll case with 7 scrolls Alchemists fire (3 flasks) Silver bracelet set with 5 amber gems Silk Scarf Belt
40 PP 250 GP 200 SP 5 CP
Trellus Thursday January 1st, 2004 9:55:45 AM
The cleric grins at Grymash's admonition. "I will, Gry." He points to the half orc's own wounds. "Just remember to weave it on yourself, too."
Trellus' exultation has completely evaporated by the time he's gone through several hordes of dead and dying bodies. He helps where he can, using all his spells in the process.
Liana explains her situation, and the young man can only nod. He places a hand on her shoulder. "Stay in shadow, Liana," he says formally, and turns back to his pack.
Trellus nods in thanks at Black's praise and lets himself be led to the skiff. "How often does this Event with the Drake happen?" he asks, shuddering at the thought of another battle.
At the skiff, he takes up the mace. Nobody but me gonna weave with this he figures. He takes a few swings, places his old mace in the skiff, and takes in his friends.
"Lets go home."
Grymash d8+1=8 d8+1=4 Thursday January 1st, 2004 3:11:32 PM
After the healing and dispatching is done, Grymash heals himself with his last remaining spell left uncast (Doom spell spontaniously cast as a Cure Light Wounds for 8 points of healing.) Then another cure spell cast from his feel good stick. (4 points of healing.)
Grymash is left with nothing but minor abrasions and is satisfied that a good night sleep is all he needs now. However, before he joins his pack, back at the skiff, Grymash will say a prayer for the fallen defenders.
"AUUGGGHHHHH," cries the half-orc cleric. His way to get his gods attention. "GARGUL, OH GARGUL ... lots many warriors come dis day. Victors on battle ground, even in death. Der blood spilt in glory of full fightin spirit, nuff ta pay for uh warriors rest. Let them keep enemy blood fresh on der blades an uh warrior roar on der tongues. Though Gry eyes Gargul see dis ta be true. Amen."
At the skiff, Grymash forms a big smile. "Wow, lookie at all dis stuff!" Gry nods when Trellus takes the mace. "Look Jake ... dat sword looks shady!" Gry doesnt care for the bracers or have any need for the shield. He passes over them to look at the potions. "Hmmm, pretty colored drinks." The bracelet looks a bit too dainty for Grymash's taste, but he gives it a good look... and a sniff! Grymash takes the silk scarf and holds it up with a perplexed expression. "Whut it be? Smoothy wound wrap ... bandage?!" Gry puts it back down. When he comes to the belt, Grymash looks at with some interest. He checks out the design (is it plain or tooled leather) and how sturdy it is.
A thought hits Gry, "Ohhh ... Is pack thinkin' what Gry be thinkin'? Dis stuff mite be Maaggic!! Gry casts Detect Magic and concentrates on the belt and the other items.
Flea d20+9=11 Thursday January 1st, 2004 6:43:40 PM
Flea looks at the loot (Appraise=11) but decides that to really get an idea of the value she needs to examine each piece individually, once she is better rested. Her eye is drawn in particular to the silver bracelet with the amber gems.
Gilan Thursday January 1st, 2004 8:01:52 PM
Gilan can feel the sickness in his guts as he comes across several bodies of defenders beyond anyones help but the clerics. He continues to make use of his limited healing abilities as he watches the others going about thier business.
The picking clean of the bones of the dead by insects seems fitting somehow. They give back to the plains even in death. With a last look to the bonefield that was once a battlefield, he follows the rest to the skiff.
He lets his eyes slide over the stuff on the skiff and then turns to Black. "I now know the honor that we have been given in protecting the plains and the cycle." With a sigh he shakes his head and tears roll from his cheeks. "I am sorry that I let doubt cloud the real picture." With a better understanding of what they are here for he can now put everything behind him. This is something that he can see giving his life for if needed...yes this is a noble cause.
Anuk Friday January 2nd, 2004 11:44:26 AM
As goodbyes are said and the pack prepares for the return journey, Anuk looks back at the bone pile and stares thoughtfully at the battlefield. His gaze wanders up to the sky and memories of the unseen drake. Wishing he still had his journals, he makes a few mental notes about the cocoon, the cooling feel of the drake's wings, and roles of the defenders of the Plains. He clasps hand over fist and bows his head. "Talki fresal dondit liki," he says quietly, then he turns to the pack.
"Let's go home."
Jake Friday January 2nd, 2004 2:02:05 PM
Jake stares at the departing form of Liana and sighs deeply, forlornly. Maybe they'll meet again, he thinks to himself, but realizes the chance of that is nil... He looks over the items and glances at the others. They'll probably want him to take the sword, he realizes, but he likes his own sword more. he's trained with it so much, it's like he knows every inch of the blade. The half-elf says just so, then goes on to mention, "it's just this typa sword, y'all know? Besides, this one's been used in battle. Ah'd hate to use someone else's sword." It occurs to him, then, that they don't really need any of this stuff....and then Grymash mentions it might be magic. Surprised, Jake looks at the items. "If it's magic," he reckons, "they'll start shooting fireballs or stuff. "Ah don't want any of that." He loses interest quickly and wanders over to help others.
ADM Carla Friday January 2nd, 2004 7:26:11 PM
Trellus swings the heavy mace, and it feels good in his hand. The walker answers the cleric, "Sometimes the circle cycles small, and sometimes it cycles large. I have only witnessed the birth of one other Drake, and that was a long, long time ago, when I was very young. Like you."
Black sighs as he watches the tiny Mankife climb the bone nest, and then on to the back of the invisible beast within. As the Drake lifts off, there is one last sweet sensation of a cool breeze. "Every Drake carries with him the strength and the spirit of those who died defending him," continues the walker, then "you should depart now. You can make a safe camp at the edge of the grass plains before nightfall. Rest up there, then continue your journey the next day."
Gilan and Anuk assimilate the experience as they internalize the lessons recently learned.
While Jake looks on dubiously, Flea and Grymash inspect the booty. Flea thinks if none of the party want the items, they might get some decent coin on trade in. Grymash detects an aura of magic coming from:
1 Mace 1 Longsword Bracers of Armour Shield(large, steel) Case of Potions:( 2 red stoppers, 2 green stoppers, 1 blue stopper, 1 black stopper) Scroll case with 7 scrolls Belt
(OOC: DM Kevin resumes on Monday. Thanks for your wonderful, and regular posting, guys! You made my temp. job a lot of fun.)
Gilan Friday January 2nd, 2004 11:43:27 PM
Glancing to Black he smiles an lays his fist over his heart with the other on top. He bows to him as he looks back to see the leader manri get on the almost invisible drake. "Despite my earlier doubts...I am more than honored to have been a part of this. I have seen more in the past days than most of my kind see in a lifetime." With a last look to Black he bows again, sending out a heart touch to all those around him. "Talki fresal dondit liki." He once again smiles to Black sensing that they will meet again, he can learn a lot from this man.
Gilan walks along with the rest as they make their way to the camping spot that Black had mentioned. He will wait to see what they can find out about the spoils they got and for it's distribution. Moving up to stand beside Gry he taps the big guy on the shoulder. "I was good to have you around Gry." Looking to the rest he smiles again. "It was good to fight by all your sides."
[Carla - Congratulations on a DM job very well done. It was an honor to play under your posts. I will miss that, but know that it was hard to play DM and Flea at the same time. Good to have you back among the players full time.]
[Kevin - Welcome back from a much deserved vacation. We hope that you will pick this up and challenge us some more. I personally have been having a blast with all of the gaming.]
Trellus Saturday January 3rd, 2004 11:51:46 AM
The young man inclines his head slightly toward Black and the Mankife. "We've seen quite a lot to think about," he admits. "Many shadows"
Leading the pack back to the Plain's edge, Trellus thinks about the treasure. "Can anyone identify this stuff?" he asks. "Flea, any idea how much that bracelet is worth? We need to figure out what's here before we start twistin' our threads on what we're gonna weave with them."
With that in mind, Trellus takes a look at the scrolls, trying to figure out what they are.
Grymash Saturday January 3rd, 2004 12:51:43 PM "Thanks Gilan, fightin' with all be good. When fightin', pack become more alive after facin' death. Gargul like. Do pack feel more life in them now? Dont air feel better ... food taste better too. Dat is from bein' more alive."
After scanning the loot, Grymash awe-struck face forms a big toothy grin. "Yaahhh, lots shady... err no, COOL BREEZE magic here! Trellus' head thumper is magic. Da sword, colored drinks, da tube wit papers, da bracers an shield, an da belt is all cool breeze magic! Da silky bandage not an da wrist chain not. They pretty though ... yes?"
Grymash takes the belt in his hand and straps it on. "Only way ta figurin' out whut stuff does. Maybe Gry see whut belt do on way ta camp. Hee hee, Trellus an Jake can fight at camp ta see what weapons do!"
Grymash grabs the rope and starts to pull the skiff back to the grasslands, just like before.
Mikey (OOC) Saturday January 3rd, 2004 1:56:54 PM
((Ohhhhhh please please please let the belt be a belt of femininity/gender change. That would be soooo hilarious.))
ADM Carla ;-)
Stephen - It stops being funny when someone gets kissed.
Flea d20+6=11 Saturday January 3rd, 2004 11:24:23 PM
Flea trudges along a little ahead and to one side of the pack, scouting for anything (Spot=11) untoward. She doesn't see much.
Returning to her pack to report, she does a double take when she spots the barbarian.
Grymash Sunday January 4th, 2004 2:14:24 AM
Grymash stops for a short moment to catch his breath and stretch his tired muscles. His chest heaves with every breath as he slowly wipes the glistening sweat off his body. Moistened skin reflects the hot rays of the sun, accentuating Gry's rippling muscles and other chiseled features. Gry suddenly feels a little uncomfortable when he notices Flea watching him. He quickly returns to his work at pulling the skiff.
Anuk Sunday January 4th, 2004 7:36:11 PM
Marching throught the heat, Anuk starts thinking over their recent adventures. He turns to Gilan. "So, we've seen each creature changing from one to the other. But, if this is a cycle, does the drake become a pig somehow? Light...I shoulda asked Black while I had the chance."
Gilan Monday January 5th, 2004 4:36:48 PM
Gilan walks along with the others and then stops in his tracks when Anuk comments. "Light...you are right...we have no idea how the cycle starts again." He shakes his head and then catches back up with Anuk. "Maybe Malafret can clue us in to what happens after that." He hopes that she will and can give them a piece of the puzzle they had forgotten about.
Glancing to Trellus he moves to walk beside him. "Having any luck with that scroll?" He glances to the others as he walks along beside Trellus. His eyes settle on Grymash for a few seconds as he ponders things...then his eyes flash back to thier big friend. Something seemed different with the big guy.
Grymash Monday January 5th, 2004 5:01:44 PM
The half-orc is beginning to feel a little self-conscious with all of the sudden stares in his direction. With a perplexed eyebrow raised oh so slightly, Gry inquiringly asks, "Whut?!"
DM Kevin Monday January 5th, 2004 8:50:35 PM
Blood Pack walks and talks after finishing a task which has changed each of them in different ways. After a very short time, the group hears movement around them in the grass. Manfri approach from all sides. Malafret is with them.
Malafret (dm kevin) Monday January 5th, 2004 9:02:10 PM
" You have done well blood pack. There is more to the cycle for you to learn but, you have learned enough about the cycle for now. It is time for you to roam. You are no longer naive children. You must explore and learn about those around us in the plains. Where you go is up to you. I have news about a few things going on you may be interested in. A cavern has just been discovered in the area of Crystal Mountain which was destroyed by a druid. It is possible that the cavern is being used by someone. If there is a new danger present we would all like to know. There is also the dwarves. They have carved out there own space in the plains and have been experiencing ambush and theft on trade routes by mysterious bandits. If you want to see somewhere completely different, there is always hook city. Where you go is up to you and it does not have to be somewhere I have mentioned. I only ask that you return to me with information when you have completed your journey. So for now I will leave you and wish you well until you return."
Trellus Monday January 5th, 2004 9:13:29 PM
The young cleric spends some time going over the scrolls. Their contents seem to be escaping him, but he tries again.
At first, Malafret's appearance is a welcome sight. "Many shadows, teacher!" he cries happily. "Could you help us identify these magics?"
But, after she tells them its time to go out, alone, he's more subdued. "But," he asks hesitantly "but what of home, my folks? Can't we go back and see them? And, what about Milo's parents? How do we tell them Milo died out here, without giving away the secret of our pack?"
He looks pleadingly at Malafret. "Teacher, how do we tie off our old threads?"
Flea Monday January 5th, 2004 9:35:23 PM
Flea stands next to the cleric and listens to what Malafret says. The gnome was really hoping for a good bath in one of the fountains of Rattledam, and the opportunity to buy some paper and write a note to her folks back home.
"Trellus?" She asks in a small voice, "Maybe we can sneak back to Rattledam, get some provisions, and then head out again?"
Flea keeps glancing sideways at Grymash, who doesn't quite look himself.
Grymarsha (aka Grymash) Monday January 5th, 2004 10:53:48 PM "AAAAUUUUUUGGGHHHHHHHH!!!!" cries a females voice!!!
"IT MISSING ... IT MISSING!! WHUT THESE BE, AUUGHHH??!! WHUT DAT DOIN' THERE??!!! AUUGHHH GRYS POPPA BECOME UH MOMMA!!! PIGGIE DUUMMPPSSS ... AUUUGGHHH!!"
A very feminine half-orc just keeps screaming and running back and forth, in and out of camp, in every direction. He, err I mean she, is delirious and doesn't know what to do.
Anuk Monday January 5th, 2004 11:24:20 PM
When Malafret approaches, Anuk's smile broadens, but when he learns that they are to continue journeying away from Rattledam he is a little crestfallen. "More adventuring, eh? A moment at home might have been nice, but I suppose we ought to continue on. I've not seen a dwarf yet here on the Plains, perhaps we shou--HOLY JUMPIN' PRAIRIE PIGS!!"
Anuk is looking in the direction of...uh...Grymash?
Jake Tuesday January 6th, 2004 6:41:41 AM
((Woah...I thought I was joking about the belt thing!)) Jake looks at Gry in surprise, having just about been to open his mouth to say something about dwarves. He has no clue what's wrong with the half-orc, but obviously it's something bad. "Hey, Grymash, what the dust is going?"
Malafret (dm kevin) Tuesday January 6th, 2004 1:35:09 PM
" Your quest does not have to begin this moment. You are more than welcome to journey home first. Spend a bit of time there if you must while you decide where to go next. Per haps, there is someone where you live who can identify your items. You will find that you have more freedom at home than you have had in the past. Gry, dear, you might want to consider some clothing which is less revealing considering your recent change."
Jake Tuesday January 6th, 2004 3:10:10 PM
"Uh...thanks ma'am," he nods to Malafret. "Uh...so, let me get this straight. I mean, clear. So, Grymash...is now a girl? 'cause of magic? Well, hell! I'm not using any of this stuff!" Jake looks at the ring he's wearing suspiciously. "This isn't gonna like, cut off my finger, is it?"
Grymarsha d20+10=26 d3+5=6 Tuesday January 6th, 2004 4:45:45 PM
Grymarsha comes charging out of the tall grass straight at Jake. Her long flowing hair full of crawling insects and bits of grass. Her eyes wild and filled with feral rage. A look Jake has seen many times but never directed at him. Grymarsha swings a clinched fist at Jake. (Hit AC 26 for 6 points of nonlethal damage.)
"GRY NO GIRL!!!" bellows the emotional half-orc. Grymarsha continues to stand there with fists of hard white knuckles. Her ample bosom heaving from winded breath. Her raged expression suddenly shifts to one full of pain and mental anguish. Gry falls to her knees with hands over her face. "gry no girl .... gry .. uh womans!"
Gilan Tuesday January 6th, 2004 5:26:29 PM
Gilan glances more closely at Gry and then averts his gaze. He slaps his hand over his mouth to keep from laughing out loud but his shoulders are still shaking.
Looking to Malafret he ponders what she has just said. "You say that a druid destroyed an area of the plains." This peeks his interest but will not make his decision for him. "I have never really seen a dwarf up close either...maybe helping them out would be interesting as well." He thinks to himself that he would not have minded going home first. Then when it is mentioned that they could go home and then plan out thier next move he cannot help but smile.
To his dismay Gry comes charging back out of the grasses and takes a shot at Jake. He cannot help but start laughing as the big man losses it. He keeps a respectful eye off of Gry as he wipes tears from his eyes. "Is there...anything that...we can do...for him....Malafret." He somehow gets his sentence out through gasps for air, from laughing so hard.
Flea Tuesday January 6th, 2004 6:28:10 PM
Flea looks at her great friend Gry, and then at the rest of the pack as they tease the poor unfortunate. She moves over beside the big barbarian, and places a gentle hand up on her generous hip. "Um, why don't we take the first watch, Gry, then maybe I can help you out with that hair."
While the pack makes camp, and sets up for the night, Flea stays close to the half-orc.
If Gry is willing, during their watch, Flea will weave her long flowing hair into many rows of tiny braids, then tie them off into one great shiny tail at the back of her head with a leather thong. "That will keep your hair out of your eyes, girlfriend" volunteers the gnome.
(OOC: Don't expect Flea and Gry to make dinner, boys!)
Jake (Just asking for it. AC 23 on defensive) Tuesday January 6th, 2004 6:37:43 PM
Even though Jake takes a slam that would make most guys silent for a week, the half-elf can't help but tease his (newly changed) packmate. "A woman? Y'all ain't no woman, yet. Most women ah know can at least cook and clean, and dress appropriately. Now don'tch'all get flustered, Grymarsha, ah'm sure someday ye'll make Trellus a nice wife, once ya learn ta braid yer hair and wear nice skirts, and stay in the kitchen cooking us cookies." The half-elf's voice has a teasing edge to his macho side, as it usually does when he talks to women. He can't really help it...he loves making jokes about women doing men's jobs. Even when Malafret punished him for it by making him clean out his mouth with piggie plop.
Trellus Tuesday January 6th, 2004 10:39:58 PM
Trellus nods at Malafret. "OK, dudes," he announces, "Let's go home first, and then....we'll...
DUDE! What happened to Gry?!?
The young cleric is at a complete loss about what to do and/or say until Jake opens his big mouth and Grymash goes off on him.
Light of the Sunbaked Grass!
Risking some serious injury, Trellus steps between Gry and Jake. "Gry! Warp down! We'll fix it! I promise! We'll go back to Rattledam and get it fixed. Just wait!"
Then, he whirls, grabs Jake by the arm and hauls him off about 30', swings him around, and looks him right in the face so Jake knows he's pretty ticked. "Light, Jake. Use your brain for a second," he growls. "Stay away from Gry. Don't talk to him, don't wave at him, don't wink at him."
Time to play the trump card. The cleric is well aware of Jake's aversion to magic. "I got spells that'll keep you quiet, and spells that keep you asleep, and spells that'll wrap you up tighter than a new loom. You go after Gry again, and I'll twist your thread to that skiff and we'll pull you unconscious all the way back to Rattledam."
He relaxes just a bit. "After we fix him up, you have fun. But, we don't need him running off or killing you or anything else twisted right now."
Then, its back to the half-orc. "Have you tried taking the belt off, yet?"
Then, its time to camp. Trellus makes sure he privately addresses every packmate, advising them to be extra careful around the barbarian for awhile, and emphasizing its only a temporary condition. He's a lot nicer about it than he was with Jake, because everyone else is a lot more sensible.
DM Kevin Tuesday January 6th, 2004 11:35:55 PM
Malafret replies to Jake, " I think if the ring was going to cut off your finger, it would have already done so. You should let this experience teach you that when it comes to magic, caution is not a bad idea."
Gry loses his cool after discovering the loss of his manhood.
Malafret says to Gry, " Relax, my friend, I know this is traumatic, but I'm sure something can be done about it. "
" Yes Gilan, a druid by mistake, destroyed a part of the crystal mountains. The crystal mountains are however, a creation of the baron's men. "
Malafret watches as Trellus gives the blood pack words of advice.
" There is much to be done, so I reccommend you begin your travel home. Be understanding with dear Gry. What if it had happened to one of you? Goodbye now. Have a safe journey. "
Anuk Tuesday January 6th, 2004 11:51:36 PM
Anuk watches Gry in stunned silence for a moment. The transformation is unexpected to say the least, but Anuk finds it fascinating.
He studies the big gal's actions as she goes after Jake and talks with Trellus. When Gry has calmed down he approaches.
"Say, Gry...when we get back to Rattledam, you mind if I make an entry about this...uh...you in my new creature journal?"
Grymarsha Wednesday January 7th, 2004 1:50:46 PM
When Trellus returns from talking to Jake, teary eyed Gry impulsively grabs the young cleric in a rather constricting hug. Almost picking Trellus up off the ground. Grymarsha softly states in Trellus' ear, "It good dat Trellus step in when did ... Gry wuz 'bout ta make Jake uh girl too!!" Gry quickly releases Trellus after realizing what she was doing and hands Trellus a dagger she had palmed in her hand. "Give dis ta Jake. Jake need protection if he keep sayin' doze words ta Gry."
As Grymarsha turns to go back and sit next to Flea, she answers Anuk's question. "No no no no!! No one will know of dis. Forget dis now!!" Gry starts to tug on the belts buckle but it wont budge.
Gilan d20+13=20 Wednesday January 7th, 2004 7:40:08 PM
Gilan glances to Gry again and settles himself. "I am sorry Gry...I should not have laughed." With an ashamed look he listens to Trellus tear into Jake and takes some of it as his own too.
He looks back to Malafret and then nods in understanding. So the barons have control of the crystal mountains and it may not be a good idea to go there right away after all. "I see."
When they set up camp for the night he makes of to gather some foodstuffs that the plains provides (survival 20). He comes back with an armload of roots, grasses and the like to spice up what they have already.
Flea d20+6=8 d20+8=12 Wednesday January 7th, 2004 7:59:37 PM
Flea hopes that Jake does the cooking. As is her usual habit, she will volunteer to clean up the dishes, using handfuls of grass and sand to scour the simple utensils clean of any food remnants. She will invite Gry to work alongside her, and they will talk about 'girl stuff'.
Flea will take which ever watch is assigned to her, during which she will keep her eyes open and ears tuned to the sounds of the plains. (Spot=8, Listen=12) The rogue doesn't do a very good job though, because she is tired from the battle and distracted by thoughts of what lies in the little skiff.
In the morning when she thinks no one is looking, she will move over to the skiff and look longingly at the silver bracelet with the amber gems, and finger the silk of the scarf lovingly.
DM Kevin Wednesday January 7th, 2004 8:55:04 PM
Anuk finds himself wanting to study Gry's new form. Grymarsha, very close to hostile actions at this time, politely discourages any study. Ashamed by his actions, Gilan corrects himself and then begins gathering food. Flea also does her part prepareing for dinner, but with an ever watchful eye of her surroundings.
The food is good and when it is not their turn for watch, everyone sleeps wonderfully. After a night with no disturbance, as everyone begins wakeing, Flea makes makes time for quiet reflection.
Jake Thursday January 8th, 2004 12:26:23 AM
Jake looks at Trellus, pretty sure he's bluffing. The guy could never play poker properly, the half-elf thinks to himself. But then again, he doesn't want to annoy anybody else that night, just tease 'em... he winks at Trellus as he agrees to leave Grymash alone, and wanders off.
Jake does the cooking for that night as he has had since Milo left the group.
In the morning, as usual, he wakes up earlier than most people and begins practicing. Unlike Grymash, he does not have incredible strength or the fury of orcish blood...so he makes up for it with diligent study of swordplay. As the sun rises, he repeatedly goes through his training moves with the sword he's always used, since he first could lift one. Of course, back then it was too heavy for him to swing, let alone dip and weave with... But now it seems an extension of his arm, almost part of himself. Afterwards, the others just waking up, Jake wanders by Flea, still sweating and puffing a bit. Glancing around to make sure they're alone (as alone as one can get in the camp), he gently remarks, "Hey, Flea...ah was only kiddin' about the womin bit, y'know? Ah'm sure Grymmy knows that, but ah don't know if ya do. Ah joke ta make horrible things seem okay. ah can't help it." That said, he gets his gear together to get ready to go back to Rattledam.
Trellus Thursday January 8th, 2004 8:11:12 AM
"Erph," is about the best response Trellus can manage as Grymash nearly crushes him in thanks. He does make sure to take the dagger, though.
The next morning, as is his custom, the cleric moves off a short ways for his morning devotion to Domi. A quick grin flashes across his face as he briefly considers asking for a Silence spell this day. But, he discards the notion. He does make sure to pray for that extra Endure Elements though.
Time for breakfast, and a quick reminder to Gilan and Gry to also load up on Endure Elements spells, or whatever Gry calls it. Feel good in Sticky Hot? Dude.
Trellus walks home with the rest of the pack.
Grymarsha Thursday January 8th, 2004 3:44:03 PM
Grymarsha wakes uneasily after the sun rises. Being unaccustomed to his new form, she found it rather difficult to find a comfortable position. She notices that her hair had been brushed and tied in braids. Gry sighs deeply after remembering what she has become. Normally he would be mad at Flea, but she understands Flea was only trying to be helpful. Even though it made her look more "girlie!"
At breakfast Gry remains mostly quiet except to ask one request of her pack. "Gry not know when fix dis problem but if pack get back ta Rattledam befo we fix Gry, then me not be Gry. Call me someone else. Me Gry's sister or girlfriend or sumthin' ... ok! If dis get out, Gry be joke for town an other packs. An Gry no want ta beat up WHOLE town! No ways! "
Grymarsha spends a little longer than usual praying to Gargul this morning. However, the extra time seems to give Gry a greater sense of peace and calmness. Or maybe its from a severe lack of testosterone!
Grymarsha (has an idea) d20+8=22 Thursday January 8th, 2004 5:32:19 PM
After pulling the skiff for a little while Gry gets an idea (Survival 22).
"Lets put sail post down on skiff an dis night time pack help weave grass cover ta put over skiff. Then skiff be hid from raiders eyes as Gry pull skiff from below in day. Huh, what think?"
Anuk d20+9=14 Thursday January 8th, 2004 6:09:39 PM
Anuk looks Gry in the eye and says, "No problem, my friend. No word of this event will pass my lips or enter my journals."
After a night of (thankfully dreamless) rest, Anuk wakes up feeling fine. He looks in the direction of the rising sun and wanders off that way to find a little time to think and meditate.
(prepares entagle)
Upon returning to the pack, he helps with the chores of cooking and cleaning. When Gry mentions building a cover for the skiff, Anuk responds positively. "Sounds like a great idea...I'll be happy to help."
When the time to depart arrives, Anuk takes a position near the front of the pack to keep an eye out for anything unusual. (spot 14 -(16 if spotting bounders or rapke)) Twinge moves along quietly nearby.
Flea d20+6=24 d20+8=20 Thursday January 8th, 2004 6:43:28 PM
Flea starts to reach out a hand towards the silver bracelet, when Jake sneaks up behind her mumbling something that sounds like the skinny fighter's version of an apology. The rogue quickly pulls her hand back, flushes, and mutters "whatever" under her breath, as the elf moves on.
As the group wend their way home to Rattledam, Flea scouts out ahead of the group. Able to multi-task like most women, she keeps her eyes open and her ears attuned to the plains.(Spot=24, Listen=20)
She composes a letter to her parents in her head,with plans to commit it to paper once she is safely back in Rattledam.
DM Kevin Thursday January 8th, 2004 8:28:22 PM
As Flea recollects past memories, Jake performs graceful swordplay exercises. Trellus finds his own quiet time to pray to the divine. Gry spends the morning in worry, until Gargul reassures him in prayer, that all will be fine. Anuk helps Gry prepare for the days travel. Flea gives Jake a taste of woman's scorn, and then with an alertness only possessed by a rogue, moves ahead to do her part in the journey.
It is a slow journey, but after days of travel, which might be called boring compared to previous travels, Rattleda is finally in sight. If the party chooses, they will arrive at Rattledam with only a few more hours of walking.
Gilan Thursday January 8th, 2004 11:49:10 PM
Gilan spends his morning in quiet repose and commune with the Wold herself. With a heavy sigh he makes his way back to the group and nods his willingness to move on.
With his gear packed he starts out with the others. It is a sure thing that Gry is going to make a big splash back at town and he is not looking forward to it. With the suggestion, put out by Gry himself/herself he nods at the idea. "That could work...though I would like to find out if we can change you back before we get to town." He feels sorry for his big friend and hopes that he will look before leaping next time.
They are nearing the town when he looks to the rest. Then Gry makes another suggestion that is sort of out of his nature. "You seem to be thinking pretty good there Gry." He will then help out as much as he can to build something to cover the skiff.
Tiev and Zilia Friday January 9th, 2004 1:03:31 AM
Never far from the druid during the daylight hours, Tiev and Zilia seem to dance on the light breezes wafting over the plains.
Flea Friday January 9th, 2004 1:04:14 AM
Approaching Trellus, Flea makes an enquiry "do we just march on in, armor and all, or shall we go back through the tunnels under the fountain?"
"by the shady gold door with the big magic lock!" thinks the rogue to herself.
Grymarsha Friday January 9th, 2004 1:47:54 AM
Gry replies to Gilan. "It not dat big of idea. Gry just thinkin' of ways ta hidin' real face. Me see packs skiff up there on grass, up high, tellin' whos ever lookin' wheres we be. Gry not know why pack not thinks of it sooner."
As the huge dome over Rattledam appears on the horizon, Grymarsha feels a bit torn. One side is glad to finally be home, the other isnt looking forward to kind of reception she is expecting on getting. In a last desperate act to fix the situation, Grymarsha pulls down the skiff and begins looking through their newly gained booty. "There gots ta be sumthin' here ta fix Gry. Maybe magic sword cut belt off! Maybe da magic drinks. Light, da magic papers. Trellus, Gilan ... why cant us read what on paper wit magic readin' eyes (Read Magic). Maybe there Make Man from Woman Magic on da papers. Lets take dis stuff ta tunnel befores pack go in ta town.
Trellus Friday January 9th, 2004 9:26:57 AM
The dome of Rattledam rises before them, and Trellus can't help but giggle in relief. Home
Grinning widely, he nods at Flea's question. "We'll use the tunnel and come up through the fountain," he says. "Maybe we'll meet someone down there who can help Gry, and figure out the picks on the rest of this stuff."
The half-orc's suggestion about reading the scrolls leaves the cleric shaking his head sheepishly. "I'll have to do it tomorrow, dude," he replies. "I didn't ask for that spell this morning."
Trellus leads the pack down into the tunnels beneath Rattledam and the cubbyholes for their equipment.
Grymarsha Friday January 9th, 2004 10:56:02 AM "Gry gots Magic Readin' Eyes. Sigh, if Milo here, pack have magic papers read by now.....!!! Oh Milo ... what pack says ta Milo Momma?!!"
In dealing with his current ordeals, Grymarsha has completely forgotten about another problem that is still unresolved.
Jake Friday January 9th, 2004 1:29:59 PM
Jake shrugs in response to Grymash, and looks at the dome of Rattledam. He wonders if he'll still have to do those neverending chores he used to do for his family and the community. Life was so exciting out there, and now back to this boring little village where everything is protected. He can't help but feel a bit of boredom seeping into him just thinking of it.
Anuk Friday January 9th, 2004 1:30:02 PM
"Home...it's gonna feel nice to have a swim in the pool. I definitely think that's how we should enter." Anuk turns to Gry,"Maybe Trellus is right and there will be someone down there who can help us before we ever get to the surface. It's gonna be okay." He sends a heart touch to Gry in sympathy.
When Gry mentions Milo, Anuk becomes a little subdued. He follows the others into the cave, wondering who should talk to Milo's parents and what they should say.
DM Kevin Monday January 12th, 2004 9:16:52 PM
Gilan shows concern for Grymash. Flea ponders her entrance into Rattledam. Grymarsha wishes to enter through the cave. Jake at home in the outdoors seems concerned about boredom in the city. Anuk is glad to be coming home. All wonder how to deal with the Milo situation. Trellus begins leading the party to the cubbyholes.
You all stop for a moment when you reach the entrance, and then enter, one by one. You are back in Rattledam now, for better or worse.
Gilan Monday January 12th, 2004 10:00:39 PM
Gilan follows along to the cubbies and stows his gear in his marked spot. He glances around to see if anyone else is already here, hoping to see someone that can help Grymash. With a last look around he changes into his swimming clothes and takes up to the pool.
He breaks the waters surface and looks around his home. He slips out of the water and waits for the rest to surface. When everyone is up and out he will smile a little. "Lets head to out homes and then meet back at Milo's house...this is a pack duty and not one for one of us." He waits to see if anyone else has anything else to add or comment on.
Flea d20+9=20 d20+4=24 Monday January 12th, 2004 11:05:50 PM
The rogue bundles up her gear carefully, sure in the knowledge that what she puts behind the cubby marked with the elegant "F" will magically appear behind the cubby above ground near the fountain. She can then retrieve her possessions and bring them home for cleaning and repair.
Flea locates the goofy bathing garment and finds a shadow in which to hide while she changes (Hide=20*) Noticing that the newest female member of the party may be in a quandry, she whispers "why don't you use that silk scarf to make a bandeau top? I can help?" If 'Grymarsha' is willing, Flea will tie (Use Rope=24, nat. 20) the scarf in a neat halter top around the buxom half-orc.
When Flea emerges from the fountain, she retrieves her gear, safely stowed in her pack, from behind the cubby, and follows Gilan home.
* subtracted bonus to hide due to shadow armour ;-)
Trellus Tuesday January 13th, 2004 12:29:37 PM
The young cleric stows his gear as well as the stuff recovered from their battles, and looks up toward his home with some reluctance.
What do I say to Milo's mom? he asks himself yet again. And how do I help Gry?
So many picks he's obligated to weave, and yet, near last thread, he still doesn't know how.
Nodding with Gilan, he can only manage, "Agreed". Then, sending a 'heart touch' to Grymash, Trellus ascends into the cleansing water of the Rattledam.
He passes the children froliking in the waters, and finds he can't join in their elation. Too much has happened. (Milo) Oh, to join in their blissful ignorance again.
He goes home, embraces his parents with fierce determination, and then prays to Domi for the strength to perform the most difficult pick in his young life. Then, squaring his shoulders, he goes to Milo's house.
Jake Tuesday January 13th, 2004 3:04:07 PM
The half-elf nods, but secretly is tempted to go get drunk and forget about the whole Milo thing to avoid further anguish... but later on, as he sits on the porch of his house with a flask of glass grass, he realizes that he still misses the little mug. So, he heads on over to Milo's house to join in the condolences, just to get it out of his system.
Anuk Tuesday January 13th, 2004 3:19:03 PM
After stowing his gear, Anuk rises through the pool and surfaces into the bright sunshine. As the others leave, he spends some time swimming and thinking; the first mentally relaxing moment he's had in some time. Eventually, he climbs out of the water. While drying off, he casts his eyes about for Dancer, or any other members of the Black pack. Wonder if they've ever been tapped for going out into the Plains like we were?
Anuk makes his way to his solitary home for a bit of rest. When the time is right, he joins the others at Milo's home, a sense of sadness settling over him.
Grymarsha Tuesday January 13th, 2004 3:45:02 PM
Gry exhales a large sigh. There was apparently no help for the half-orc in the cave. Her head hangs low depressingly as Gry accepts Flea's help with the quick make-over.
"Jus remember everyones, dat NOT be Grymash up theres in Rattledam. So no be callin' me Grymash. Gry be pretty now but me still hit like Gry," warns the barbarian. "So me be Grymarsha, pretty half-orc, who join Bloodpack, in place of Grymash."
Gry's eyes roll once again when she looks down at her ample bosoms getting pressed together by Flea with the scarf. Suddenly the word "Cleavage" means much more than just the act of hacking and separating meat from the bone.
Gilan Tuesday January 13th, 2004 9:46:40 PM
Gilan heads for his home with Flea and lays a hand on her shoulder as they walk along. "Feels good to be home again." He spends the time at his home getting himself cleaned up and changing some of his equipment for later. He spends time cleaning up and just trying to keep himself busy.
At last he looks to Flea and nods his head. He will follow along with her to Milo's house and meet up with the others. When he gets there he will look to the others and scuff his feet. "You know that this is not going to be easy." He is wondering who is going to do the talking as he takes in a long breathe.
When the subject is finally brought to the families attention he cannot help but tear up and five his own apologies. "I am sorry for your loss and ours...your son was one of my best friends and I will miss him." Almost to the point of being unable to talk he takes a few breathes. "If there is anything I can do." He leaves it hanging not really knowing what else to say.
Flea Tuesday January 13th, 2004 10:58:37 PM
Once they are home, the gnome spends some time setting her gear out to air, tending to her sunburn and bug bites, and cleaning up. She locates some standard paper, ink, and an inkpen, and spends a quiet hour writing a letter to her parents.
When Gilan indicates that it is time to go, she dons her spare tunic, and her little red pointy hat, reserved for solemn occasions.
When the pack pays their respects to Milo's parents, she quietly offers her condolences. Her heart is breaking for her friends, whose grief over the loss of their halfling friend is so palpable.
DM Kevin Wednesday January 14th, 2004 9:57:09 AM
(Sorry for the missed post. I'll make this short and post again this evening.)
Everyone heads where they need to and then meets at Milo's parents' house. After a knock on the door, Milo's mother answers. "Hello children, how may I help you."
Trellus Wednesday January 14th, 2004 12:09:03 PM Domi help me. She doesn't know.
Trellus stands in shock before Milo's mom, aching with the knowledge that what he will say will destroy her.
"I...We..." Trellus' voice catches, and he looks to the ground in shame and agony. His stomach tightens up, followed immediately by the constriction in his throat. He looks back up, as tears stream down his young face.
"It's Milo," he says at last. "It's bad." He sighs heavily, weariness and nearly inconsolable sadness washing over his features. "Really bad."
Trellus waits for Milo's parents to absorb that and let them in. Hopefully they find a good spot to sit down for the rest. The cleric pours out the story in a near monotone, barely daring to actually think about the words he's saying.
"We went out into the Grass. All of us. And...and the bounders found us. We fought back, and Milo was up on the boat."
Trellus looks pleadingly at the folks, aching for some reassurance that they have no reason to give. "We thought he was safe there! Domi help me, it was the safest place on the field!"
"But a bounder came up, and he was huge, and we couldn't get to Milo in time, and, and," The tears flow freely.
"And he's gone." "Milo's dead."
The cleric bows his head, totally despondent in his silence.
Grymarsha Wednesday January 14th, 2004 3:40:57 PM
Grymarsha stands with her pack at the front steps of Milo's parents house. Gry is still a bit on edge, she doesnt want to draw any attention. She nervously looks over her shoulder, the slightest sound catches her attention.
She leans on her quarterstaff that she retrieved from her hut. She wonders how the halflings mourn their dead. Gry has never witnessed a halfling funeral. She just hopes there isnt a bunch of crying. Gry cant stand the obsessant blubbering of the humans. Milo with Gargul, nuthin' wrong wit dat. Any cleric of Gargul know dat," thinks Gry to herself. She begs Gargul for no blubbering and crying ... Gry hates that so much. "Jus get mad, fight someones, drink glass grass, have uh party, even get revenge if ya have ta, but no cryin'," Gry continues to ponder. Whatever happens, Grymarsha is prepared to give Milo's family a funeral service or comfort them in some way if they so wish. For it is the duty of an Eye of Gargul. Although Gry much prefers the Funeral Party approach. She likes to celebrate someones life and remember their great battles, and not get sad because they're with Gargul. "Dat jus selfish," thinks Gry.
Flea Wednesday January 14th, 2004 6:24:02 PM
Flea waits uneasily in the home of Milo's parents while the Bloodpack pay their respects. After a while, she finds a quiet corner in which to wait until the rest of the group are ready to leave. Alone, her thoughts turn to the treasure they were awarded after the battle at the cocoon and how it might be equitably distributed.
Gilan Wednesday January 14th, 2004 7:36:04 PM
Gilan listens as Trellus tries to explain it to Milo's parents. The death weighs heavily on all of them, but he also can see the circle of life going on here. That gives him little comfort though as he knows it would not give to Milo's parents.
Glancing to the parents he tries to help out Trellus as much as possible. "Trellus is right ma'am...it happened so fast that we could do nothing." He let his gaze fall to the floor again as tears slip down his face. "I...I am sorry." He knows it sounds weak and lame, but it is all he can muster. He slips into silence wanting to hear some kind of anger or the like for the pack. Milo had went out with them of his own free will, but that still did not mean too much for Gilan.
This would be a burden they will all carry for some time to come. He will always be expecting it to happen again...another sad story.
Anuk Wednesday January 14th, 2004 8:34:21 PM
Anuk watches the floor as Trellus explains Milo's fate. Probably best if they hear this from a cleric, he thinks, trying to justify his silence.
Finally, he manages to glance up at the halfling family and feebly mumble, "We're so...sorry."
DM Kevin d100=98 d100=63 Wednesday January 14th, 2004 11:37:46 PM
"What ... it can't be," mutters Milo's mother. She sits down in shock, in disbelief. She buries her face in her hands and goes quiet. Milo's father suddenly becomes stoic in expression. He gets up and walks to the kitchen without saying a word.
"It can't be," repeats the halfling woman. "I never thought I would live to see this day ... he was such a healthy boy, my little boy. My little boy ... my little boy is finally gone ... GONE for GOOD!!" She sounds like she's about to cry, but no, it becomes a growing laughter. Tears flow from her eyes but they arent born out of sadness. No, she cries out with unrestrained joy.
"Ha haa haa haa, oh glorious day, I'm finally rid of that brat. Oh sweet justice, it's only fitting that lil tart was eaten by a beast in the wild. Do you all know how sick I am of the smell of cookies! His stench is in everything. You cant get rid of it. The smell of cookies will haunt me no more. Oh glorious day, ha ha haa haa haa!"
At that same time the father returns to the front room with a jug of glass grass. He appears to be well on his way to drunkeness and completely ignores you all has he heads out the front door to finish getting snookered. "Yes, you go do that you miserable, worthless excuse for a halfling," shouts the mother. "Too bad you didnt get eaten too. You're as bad or even worse than Milo, you no good for nothing tenderfoot. Just like Milo, always complaining about my cooking, making my life so bright and hot. This too bland, mother. This too spicy, mother. Can Grymash come over to eat dinner mother ... again and again and again. It's good that lummox isn't here either. That stupid stupid half-orc always eating and drinking me out of house and home ... he stunk up the place too. At least Grymash never complained, unlike that little spawn of the devil, Milo. Ohh that miserable rat blew my kitchen up so many times with his magical experiments. I lost my little toe from ....," she continues to ramble on.
Milo's mother gets up and stomps her way back to Milo's bedroom. She returns with a bundle of his personal belongings and starts throwing them out the front door. "Here take what you want. As far as Im concerned, I never had a son!" She stomps back to get another load.
Jake Thursday January 15th, 2004 1:53:00 AM
Jake isn't on the scene when Milo's mother gets mad; he would be arriving just as she ends her tirade, walking slowly with a bottle of glass grass ready. He nods to Milo's father as he passes the halfling on the road... and frowns at the little guy's expression. Sighing, he slows his steps as he approaches the house and keeps a good distance, watching and sipping at his supply.
Flea Thursday January 15th, 2004 9:39:24 AM
Flea is abruptly awakened from her reverie by the outburst from Milo's unhappy mother. She stands in the corner her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. When the woman stomps off to Milo's bedroom, Flea makes her escape from the place. Running into Jake, she gasps, "Don't go in there! It's terrible!"
Trellus Thursday January 15th, 2004 1:28:05 PM
The young cleric pictured a lot of reactions in his mind as he had approached this meeting; despondance, bitterness, blame. The father's response fit right in there.
But Mom's response is so totally outside of Trellus' expectations that all he can do is stand there staring at her for several minutes.
Has she totally flown off the loom? he initially wonders. No. She's serious. She's actually happy Milo's dead!
A cold anger begins building, but the cleric decides he's not even going to dignify this woman with a response. As she starts laying into Gry, his thoughts quickly turn to protecting his friend. We're half a minute away from a murder he realizes.
"Out," he grates to the pack between clenched teeth, "Everyone out." The blond man puts both hands on Grymash and gently guides him toward the door. "She's not worth it, Gry" he says in a low voice filled with rage. "We'll remember him in our own way."
Outside the door, he remarks to Gilan. "Dude, maybe you and Marsha should go back to your house. Anuk and I will get Milo's stuff."
The entire time, Trellus keeps his body between the half-orc and the thrice sunbaked mother. Not that it'd make a whole lot of difference should Grymarsha decide to rip her threads.
Anuk Thursday January 15th, 2004 2:06:17 PM I expected an outburst, but...not this.
Anuk's jaw drops as Milo's mother suddenly expresses glee at the demise of her son. He stands with his mouth opening and closing, fishlike, trying to think of something to say...some way to respond...but he can think of nothing...no way to react.
This makes no sense...she's happy?!
He follows Trellus' lead and exits, bewildered by what he just saw. It takes a moment for him to process what Trellus just said.
"Wha?...M-milo's stuff?...Oh, yeah...sure...I'll help." He goes to collect Milo's possesions, muttering "happy? happy?!!" under his breath the whole time.
Gilan d20+8=22 Thursday January 15th, 2004 4:55:45 PM
Gilan cannot help but wonder what just went wrong here. How could any mother be happy that their son was dead. His hands clench into fists and he suddenly feels the need to throttle the woman. Anger seething he tries to keep control and it is only with willpower (check 22) that he does.
Glancing to Flea he sees her go running out of the house and had started to move to go to her when Milo's mother started cutting into Grymash. "Oh Mother Wold help us." He steps almost as fast as Trellus does to stop Gry from any outburst that he/she may have intended. He knows that his small form will not stop the barbarian but maybe they can keep him/her calm. "Easy...Trellus is right she is not worth it." He will attempt to guide Gry out of the house with Trellus.
Glancing to Flea who is attached to Jake he shakes his head. "Flea...it is ok...please help me get Grymarsha to our house...fast." He continues to keep himself in front of Gry and the house. "Come to my house and we can have something to eat...tea or some glass grasswine." He is mentally pleading with Mother Wold or Gargul to please not let his friend lose it.
Without a look back he tries to guide Grymarsha to his house. "Everyone rally at my place to talk...you can put Milo's stuff in my loft."
Grymarsha d20+5=23 d20=10 d20+8=25 d3+5=6 Thursday January 15th, 2004 8:12:48 PM
Gry stands there, with slacked-jawed expression, totally surprised by this display of hate-filled speech. Words filled with so much venom, she felt dirty listening to them.
"Kill her," whispered a voice in Gry's ear. "yesss... kill her, she deserves not to live," says another. "snap her neck ... it would be so easy. beat her down. kill her. she curses our souls. avenge us ... avenge the one called milo. kill, kill, kill..." hiss the voices.
"No no no NO NO!! SHUT UP, SHUT UP, SHUT UP ... STOP TALKIN', STOP IT NOW!!," bellows the half-orc. Grymarsha looks to Trellus and Gilan and says, "Me good, Trellus, Gilan ... Gr, err Marsha, have words ta say ta Milo's momma. Gargul words."
Grymarsha turns to the halfling woman and begins her speech. "It be written dat it be no good ta speak bad of da dead." She holds up her hand and shows the tattoo of Gargul's eye on her palm. At that moment Grymarsha channels a wave of positively charged energy (channel roll 10). The effect seems to calm Gry somewhat and quiet the voices. "Never speak bad of dead, even more when dead is mothers own blood an bone. Words have power, dat stir da dead spirits. Shadow be only thang dat separate da livin' from dead," Gry begins to hiss, "an da shadows be seein' an hearin' whut ya say, ya fool halflin'. All life be connected by blood an it all flow ta da same place. Da restless dead will be lookin ta be cuttin' threads, dat be sure. An for once, me hopin' they find ya!" With that being said, Gry cant help but connect the holy symbol on his palm with the side of the mother's face, in the form of a slap. (Hit AC 25, for 6 points of non-lethal damage.) "Shame be on ya!! Bad Milo Momma!"
After her speech, Gry leaves with Trellus and Gilan. She will also help with gathering Milo's things before heading to Gilan's hut. On the way there, Gry says, "Gry thinks dat bein' uh girl has made Gry more nurturin'. Do ya thinks?"
DM Kevin Thursday January 15th, 2004 8:14:44 PM
Jake isn't on the scene when Milo's mother gets mad; he approaches the house and keeps a good distance, watching and sipping at his bottle of glass grass. Running into Jake, Flea gasps, "Don't go in there! It's terrible!" Trellus does his best to ensure there is no murder. Anuk begins gathering Milo's possessions. Gilan guides Grymarsha to his house and asks everyone else to rally there as well. Before leaveing, Grymarsha preaches words of Gargul, but they fall on deaf ears. Everyone finally makes it to Gilan's house. It has been an interesting day and the group begins discussing what to do next.
Flea d20+9=19 Thursday January 15th, 2004 11:09:34 PM
Once they are back at the tiny home she shares with Gilan, Flea notices that her roomie and the cleric have a pretty good handle on things. The rogue starts to poke through stuff that was awarded to the pack, doing a mental inventory.
The big Mace went to Trellus, and Gry, no, Marsha's got the belt and the silk scarf. No one seems interested in the Longsword or the Bracers of Armour, the Shield, the Case of Potions, 7 scrolls. The gnome remembers that the barbarian had said they seemed magic.
Flea picks up the silver bracelet set with 5 amber gems, and gives it a good look, trying to estimate it's value (Appraise=19). She sets it down with the rest of the loot, next to the 40 PP, 250 GP, 200 SP, and 5 CP.
Jake Friday January 16th, 2004 6:09:34 AM
Jake looks down at the frightened little Flea and awkwardly consoles her with a brush of his hand on her shoulder, sorta a gentle pat combinated with a millisecond hug. He glances at the hut, not knowing what's going on, and decides that it's better not to go remember Milo right now. "Right, Flea." Later on, at Gilan's, he looks at the amount of money and booty before them. For a long while he's lost... "Uh, pack, ah don't get it. Ah mean, we're rich now. Ah've never had much money. Ah could live well for months!" The half-elf scratches his chin, lost on how he could have made any money from just running around fighting things. Shouldn't it cost money to be doing what you like doing?
Grymarsha Friday January 16th, 2004 7:47:41 AM "Yeah Jake, Thay calls it spoils of war. Find bad people, kill'em, take der stuff. Dat 'bouts it!"
Gry opens the scroll case and begins to look through the scrolls. She casts Read Magic to identify what each one does.
Trellus Friday January 16th, 2004 4:20:45 PM
The young man dutifully picks up every shred of clothing or equipment that thrice baked treadle throws at him. A multitude of nicely descriptive adjectives cross his mind as he purposely goes about his duty. When he runs out, he makes up more. Being pretty bright, he comes up with a lot.
Finally, he walks with Anuk to Gilan's place. The cleric enters, and carefully deposits Milo's things in a good place. He searches through them to find an appropriate marker for his halfling friend.
Noticing the other discussing the treasure, he brings himself to the present. "Flea's right. Malafret said we'd find help. I'm going down to the tunnels and see if I can find somebody." He pauses, "Is anybody at all interested in the sword? Gilan? Flea? Anuk?"
Trellus makes the trip through the waters of Rattledam, looking for someone to help tell them what they've got. He also places Milo's cooking gear in the halfling's cubbyhole as a permanent memorial to his friend.
Grymarsha Friday January 16th, 2004 4:37:24 PM "Jake ... stop lookin' at them. Gry's eyes up here!"
Anuk d20+1=11 Friday January 16th, 2004 7:04:31 PM
After he helps Trellus bring Milo's stuff to Gilan's hut, Anuk joins the others in looking at the treasure. He pokes through the box of potions, gingerly holding the bottles and peering into them. "Wonder what these do?"
He holds the sword in his hand and it feels good...nicely balanced and weighted (appraise 11). "This is nice...better than mine, I think. But, I've been finding my bow much more useful lately. If nobody wants the sword I'll be happy to take it. But if we can sell it or trade it for something that will help the pack, that'd be better."
Gilan Friday January 16th, 2004 7:27:43 PM
Gilan takes a seat in one of his chairs and then looks to the rest. "As I said, you can put Milo's stuff in the loft...there is a empty chest up there." He puts his head in his hand and rubs it gently.
He nods to Trellus as he goes out to see if someone can help them with the identifying of their spoils. "I can help out with the scrolls there if you want Mar." He gives his one male friend a smile as he holds out his hand for a scroll.
Looking to the others as they start discussing the items he shakes his head about the sword. "It is nice but not my kind of weapon...Mother Wold would be very upset at me and take my powers if I tried." Glancing at the potions he smiles a little bit at them. "If anyone has some skill in alchemy...that maybe useful with the potions." He lets himself sink a little further into his chair as he thinks of what has been going on lately. Then the reaction of Milo's mother...it is just too much to handle really.
DM Kevin Friday January 16th, 2004 11:45:59 PM
Flea studies the bracelet and feels confident it is worth around 1200 gold.
Jake revels in his new found wealth.
Grymarsha determines she has the following scrolls: 1 summon monster 1 fly 2 invisibility 3 magic weapon
Trellus begins searching for help.
Anuk feels that the blade is very superior and keen.
Gilan helps look through the spoils of war.
The night goes well. Trellus runs into a monk while searching, who is able to return the heart touch.
Monk (dm kevin) Friday January 16th, 2004 11:46:46 PM
" How may I assist you, brother? "
Trellus Saturday January 17th, 2004 4:09:05 PM
"Brother, many shadows," Trellus responds.
"My pack and I have just returned from the Battle for the Drake. Plainswalker Black gave us some strange and wondrous items, but we cannot determine what magic is on them. Can you help us?"
Flea Sunday January 18th, 2004 9:46:04 AM
If nobody wants this stuff, we could take it to The Catacombs and see what they'll give us for it? I think we could get around 1200 GP for the bracelet.
Poking at the case with the vials in it. I've never had one of these before. Maybe you guys could sniff them to see if they smell familiar?
Flea then tries to tilt the large shield up, in order to see her reflexion in it
Jake Sunday January 18th, 2004 1:22:44 PM
Jake looks at the bracelet. "A thousand gold? An' two hunderd? Wow." He picks it up and juggles it in his hands. "It'd make a perfect gift for un pretty lil lady. Here, Flea, try it on." He chuckles at Flea's attempts to use the shield as a mirror, and reaches over to pick it up. "Y'all know, this shield ain't so bad. Kinda heavy compared to mah old wooden one...but mind if ah use it next time, packmates?"
Grymarsha d20-2=5 d20-2=-1 d20-2=2 Sunday January 18th, 2004 3:01:25 PM "Yeah Flea, but it sooo pretty," pouts the large half-orc. Gry's eyes quickly widen as she realizes what she had just said and how she said it. Grymarsha quickly interjects, "Uhhh, NO it ugly, Flea sell at Catacombs quick, money good!"
To change the subject Gry lets everyone know what the scrolls say. "Papers do be weaved wit magiks. Be most ungodly magiks of worldly magik weavers. Gry try an remember whut it called ... huh, Cane Magiks, no dat not it! (Int checks: 5 and -1) Gry not know whut it be called. It too arcane for Gry. But me know whut they do. Dis one make ya fly, dez two make you be see through ... not be seen (Int check 2) ya know, Investable. Dis one make ya call uh creeper ta help ya fight. Dez last two are godly magiks. Trellus and Gry can use them. It be Magik Weapon spells. Very shady!! See Gry smart, me thinked it all up by meself."
Another idea hit Gry. Why not Gry and Jake spar an train wit da new shield. Wez can find out whut it do to. Gry got me trusty fightin' stick (you all see a quarterstaff in her hand) and Jake can hold magik shield. Gry can hit Jake really hard an see whut happen. Gry looks on with a big grinning face filled with much enthusiasm.
Anuk Sunday January 18th, 2004 9:35:59 PM
"Sure wish I knew how to find out what all these potions and stuff do. Maybe Trellus'll find someone who can help."
He overhears Flea talking about going to the Catacombs. "Sellin' stuff? Sounds good to me. This sword is nice, but I think we can buy some things that'll help the pack out even more. Is there anything that'll help us beat the heat next time we're out in the grass? Or, maybe something that can help us store more stuff in a smaller space? That raft is getting awfully full."
Jake Monday January 19th, 2004 5:08:33 AM
"Woah, woah. Ya're right...that shield is magical. And ah wanted to use it...it's prob'ly cursed! Ah'm not touching it." Visions of the shield tempting him and then Jake turning into a woman are too frightening, and he backs away from the offending item. "Danged magicks."
Grymarsha Monday January 19th, 2004 9:58:50 AM
Gry's devilish smile quickly turns sullen with a roll of her eyes. "No be scared of magiks Jake. Any thang dat keep Jake out of da rapke mouth be a good thang. Cuz da rapke know Jake's taste an theys like it. Pack had pulled Jake from rapke mouths too many times already. So use da shield, if ya wont use da sword. If ya scared of little ole shield, then Jake should be big scared of da casters in own pack."
Gry spits at the ground in disgust and goes outside to practice with the quarterstaff.
Flea Monday January 19th, 2004 6:03:11 PM
The gnome struggles under the weight of the big steel shield and tries to drag it outside, as she calls to the barbarian, "Gry! Wait for me!" Huffing and puffing, she drags it as best she can, calling, "I'll hold it up, and you can bash it!"
Flea is happy to change the subject from Milo and his dysfunctional family, and to have an opportunity to 'play' at sparing.
Gilan Monday January 19th, 2004 6:48:32 PM
Gilan glances to the rest of the group as they go about thier business in his hut and snuggles down deeper into his chair. He lets his mind drift over some of the things that he had been studying over the last few years.
The idea of selling what they don't really need appeals to him...he will be needing to scrape together a fairly large amount of cash and he is not sure how long that will take. Still he shrugs as he has time...yes quite a bit of time it would seem.
DM Kevin Monday January 19th, 2004 9:12:27 PM
Flea and Grymarsha head out to try out the shield.
Jake trys working his charm on Flea.
Anuk and Gilan bith think about what they might buy if they can sell some stuff.
Monk (DM Kevin) Monday January 19th, 2004 9:16:09 PM
The monk responds to Trellus, " Yes, I can help you. We try to keep magic to a minimum around the populous, but there are those of us who know a thing or two. Bring your stuff to the main monastery tomorrow. My name is Brother Falin and you can ask for me by name. "
Flea d20+6=23 Monday January 19th, 2004 11:43:16 PM
Flea hides under the big shield, and yells out to the barbarian, "YOU HIT LIKE A GIRL!" Smothering her laughter, the gnome braces for Grymarsha's attack, then thinks to try a little magic. If I can emulate a fighter, maybe I can work this shield?
Use Magic Device=23
(OOC: I'm not sure if I did this right. I could be way out of my league!)
Trellus Tuesday January 20th, 2004 8:11:23 AM
The blond man trots excitedly back to his packmates. He stops with his heart in his throat as he sees Grymash going after Flea with his quarterstaff?
It takes a few minutes, but Trellus figures out what's going on and enters the house with a grin. "Dudes, you gotta see this. Flea's weaving with that big shield. You can't even see her under that thing."
"Oh yeah! I met a monk named Falin who says he can tell us what this stuff is. We just bring it to the main monastery tomorrow morning, and we're waxed!"
Anuk Tuesday January 20th, 2004 11:25:03 AM
Anuk steps out of Gilan's hut and sees Flea's small form under the giant shield and Grymarsha towering over her.
"Way to go, Flea! You can take her!" he yells in encouragement. Then, he sidles up to Trellus and says in a low voice, "Ten gold pieces on the half-orc."
Grymarsha d20+6=17 d20+6=23 d6+7=11 d6+4=10 Tuesday January 20th, 2004 12:51:04 PM
The half-orc looks down at the spectacle in front of her and she smiles slightly. "Flea, dis uh fighters job ... Gry mean, well, Flea not even holdin' shield right ..." then Flea spouts off her remark about hitting like a girl, "Huh .. Ohhhhhhhhhh," says Gry as she realizes she's being taunted. "OK ... guard ya self Flea ... HERE GRY COME, GRRRRR!!!"
The quarterstaff whips and twirls at a velocity far greater than the double axe due to its lighter weight. However, Grymarsha doesnt want hurt Flea so she holds back a little in order not to cause permanent damage. However, the staff comes crashing down on the little shield bearer.
(-2 penalty to do non-lethal damage*. Hit AC 17 and 23 for 11 and 10 points of non-lethal damage.)
(* Im not sure what the penalty is so I picked -2.)
Gilan Tuesday January 20th, 2004 8:52:36 PM
Gilan smiles as the others go about thier business at his hut and he is happy to hear that they have found someone that could help them identify the loot they got.
Looking up he smiles. "Hey Trellus...let the others know that they can stay the night here if they want. You all know where the spare blankets and stuff are at." He snuggles into his chair and lets his eyes close...maybe he will get a little sleep.
ADM Mike Tuesday January 20th, 2004 10:27:20 PM
The pack gathers outside Gilan's home as Grymarsha and Flea begin to "spar". With unnerving speed, Gry's staff slices through the air and lands with a resounding *thwack* on the shield covering the tiny gnome. Though the huge shield absorbs most of the blow, Flea feels a shudder that runs through her bones and stars dance before her eyes. She doesn't appear permanently hurt, but she's most definitely dazed for several minutes afterward.
The pleasant cool of evening in Rattledam begins to settle on everyone as the sun dips below the edges of the dome. As the light shifts, everything takes on a golden glow--the buildings, the trees,...even the people. In the distance you hear the sounds of children playing in the pool and you see the workers beginning to close the dome.
You are home again, and the night lays before you.
Flea Tuesday January 20th, 2004 10:46:12 PM
Flea slips out from under the shield, and let's it fall to the ground. She staggers towards the barbarian, calling, "hey Gry, I didn't know you had a twin?"
She shivers a little in the cool air, and notices that it is getting dark. "Can someone help me get this shield back in the house?"
Grymarsha d20+8=26 d20+5=17 d20+3=23 Wednesday January 21st, 2004 1:07:06 AM
Grymarsha doesnt seem to stop twirling the quarterstaff. She continues building up momentum. The whooshing sound of the staff shrieks through the air for another strike on the fallen gnome. Gry's guterally grinding growl hearlds its coming. (Hit AC 26, Strength check: 17, Dex check: natural 20)
After a loud resounding bark, all goes silent. The end of the staff hangs suspended in the air just above Flea's head. It never touched her. It halted just before it would've hit. Grymarsha's face still frozen with a menacing grimace. After a few seconds, Gry's feral facade melts into laughter. "Gry scare Flea, hee hee hee..." drops to her knees, "Hee hee, Gry make funny, HAAAhaa Haa aahhh haa haa haa HHAAAA Haaahaaa!!"
Grymarsha helps Flea to her feet and gives her congratulatory slap on the back. "Ahhhh Flea... ya do good for sneaky gnome. Big good, hee hee hee." Gry picks up the shield for Flea and helps her walk back to Gilan's house. "Gry gots dis shady medicine dat will help ya feel good. Medicine in dis." Gry presents what looks to be a green-colored waterskin.
"By da ways Trellus, ya figure out way ta gets dis belt off?"
Trellus Wednesday January 21st, 2004 11:31:02 AM
The man cringes as Gry's staff streaks toward Flea. It hangs there in front of her like a rapke in mid-pounce, and then the half-orc lets everyone in on the joke.
Chuckling, Trellus retrieves the shield from Flea. "Light Gry, you had me going there," he says. He waves his hand in front of Flea's face with a smile, "Hello? You still in there?"
Gry's question brings him around to the half-orc's situation again. "Let me pray again on it tonight, Gry. Gilan said his home is open to whoever wants to sleep here. I'll see you all at the monastary tomorrow morning and we'll see what this stuff is. Good night, all."
The young man goes home to enjoy the company of his family, and hits the sack.
Gilan Wednesday January 21st, 2004 7:23:35 PM
Gilan lets his eyes slip open as Flea and then Gry walks into the house. He lets a smile play across his face as he looks to the others.
Proping his feet up he lets his eyes close and he pulls a blanket across himself. A comfortable chair and a warm fire was all he needed right now.
He would let his friends decide if they wanted to go home. He figured that he would have at least Gry and Flea staying the night...Gry due to his problem with the belt. "Night Trellus...see you at the monastery."
Flea Wednesday January 21st, 2004 8:21:25 PM
Still dizzy from the first blow, Flea cringes when two half-orc barbarians bring their quarter-staffs down on her. She closes her eyes tight, but there is no impact. Orcish laughter fills the air, as her big friend makes a joke at the rogue's expense. Being a gnome, Flea enjoys the prank, and makes an attempt to give the half-orc a friendly punch in the leg, only to be slapped on the back and nearly laid out!
Flea follows her friend back to Gilan's house. Holding her finger up to her lips, she whisper's "Shhh!" then points to the druid. "He needs his sleep!" Flea leads the barbarian to a comfortable corner near the hearth. She opens out her bedroll, and scouts around for some spare blankets from Milo's abandoned possessions which she uses to make a comfortable nest. Inviting Gry to sit down next to her, Flea reaches out for the "green medicine."
Jake Wednesday January 21st, 2004 9:08:58 PM
For the last little while, Jake had been wandering about the town checking out the local things and quickly grew bored. Seeing the others head over to Gilan, he joins them, then takes a spot slumped against the wall comfortably. Jake lets a chuckle or two escape as Flea and Grymash have their little testing thing going on. He sits in the background, quietly leaned against the wall, his hat tipped over his head, snoozing slightly. He's more than happy to stay and sleep there at the other's house in his current spot than go home.
Anuk Wednesday January 21st, 2004 10:28:51 PM
"Here, Flea...lemme help you with that." After the match between Gry and Flea, Anuk lifts the shield off of the gnome while she steadies her legs. He touches her on the shoulder. "You doin' okay, there?" he says with a smile. He walks into Gilan's house and sets the shield down against a wall.
Walking back outside he looks up into the darkening sigh and says, "Well, I'm off for some rest. See you all in the morning!" and he heads home, intent on spending the rest of the night fashioning a new journal to keep in his pack. Gotta figure out some way to waterproof it, this time. Didn't ever think that'd be a problem out here in the Plains.
ADM Mike Wednesday January 21st, 2004 10:40:07 PM
Following the match between Gry and Flea, some pack members retire to thier homes while others stay and sleep at Gilan's. The night passes quietly and uneventfully--a nice change of pace after your time in the Grasses.
Morning comes and you wake to the sounds of the Rattledam coming to life. The voices of monks, farmers, children, and others float through open doors and windows as people begin their daily work and chores. The smell of breakfast cooking wafts through the air--delicious! Too bad it's not yours...
Flea Thursday January 22nd, 2004 8:13:14 AM
Flea wakes up as the first light of the new day enters Gilan's tiny abode. The gnome moves over to the tiny dresser and props up a small steel mirror. First she checks her tongue, which feels fuzzy, then she pulls down her lower eyelids, to check out the redness. Shaking her head, slowly, because it aches, she slips out the door to have a little run around the neighborhood. She ponders how Grymarsha's green medicine could be so much like the Green Gnomish she had once sampled in a tavern called The Giggling Ghost.
Flea ends her exercise with a swim in one of the Rattledam fountains, then returns home to Gillan's house to get ready for the trip to the monestary. She is interested in learning more about this Domi, who's blessing passed through his cleric, Trellus, has saved her skin on more than one occaision.
Grymarsha Thursday January 22nd, 2004 12:48:41 PM
Gry gets up a little early. Sleeping in a unfamilar body and on a small section of the floor of Gilan's house made her nights rest not the best it could be. However, she gets up before everyone else and works out the soreness and stretches in the early morning sun.
The pleasant smells of breakfast meals from the surrounding residents of Rattledam makes her stomach growl. Instead of going to the market and risk being recognized, Gry goes outside the dome and tries a little foraging. She takes her time, making sure not to miss anything. (take 20, Survival check 26)
Lucky be a lady this morning, as the half-orc comes across several nests of eggs. From the slightless birds, no doubt. Shaking an egg Gry can hear the thud of its contents. "Ahhh, good good! Hard-boiled baby blind bird... Mmmmm good." Gry also find some freshly grown wild wheat grass. Makes for an excellent morning brew she thinks. Its too bitter for most tastes, but its great for hang overs and irregularity. Happy with her little bounty, she heads back to Gilan's. Gry has enough for everyone in her pack.
Back at Gilan's house, Gry takes a good sized boiling pot and heads out again for water. She spots Flea swimming in the pond. "Hey Flea, Gry ...er, uh Marsha find breakfast. Blind bird eggs. Come gets sum when ready."
When Gry returns with the water, she builds a small fire. While Gry waits for the water to start boiling, she thinks about the treasure.
Gry thinks, Me no use da shield or sword. Gry hate belt, belt curse, hate it ...bad. Papers good, most for ungodly magic weaver though. No use bracers either. Me wear red silk wrap thingy, but it gettin' too loose. Gry bumpys showin'. Where Flea ta tie silky wrap back on rite. Sigh. Da silver an gold ginglies be great, wut ta buy wit them... hmmm?
Gry can't wait to crack open the eggs. To chip open one end and look down at that little savory featherless chick that lies curled up within. So delicate and so tasty. "Food of da gods," Gry thinks. Though she also wishes she had found some fat and juicy grubs to go with them.
Gilan Thursday January 22nd, 2004 5:31:31 PM
Gilan wakes the next morning feeling a lot better after a nights sleep that you did not have worry about waking up. He stretches and looks to the others that stay, noticing that most of them are up early and doing their own things.
Grabbing his bath stuff he heads off to take a bath after getting a little exercise. He smiles as his two wasps come flitting up and buzz around his head. "Morning little ones." He watches as they buzz off to get something for thier own breakfast.
After a quick little bit of exercies that leaves him feeling loose and heart beating at a good pace. He then takes a bath and dries off as he watches the other of Rattledam go about thier work. He wonders what exactly Kaili is doing and if he will get a chance to see her before leaving.
Making his way back to his hut he finds Flea and Grymarsha are already back. He smiles and flicks his still wet hair as he enters. "Morning...I hope you both slept semi well." He looks to the preparations that Grymarsha is makeing for breakfast and shakes his head again. He finishes getting himself ready to head to the monastery. "Just about got some breakfast finished there Grymarsha?" He slips a bowl of fruit out on the table as well with some bread.
Trellus Thursday January 22nd, 2004 10:00:36 PM
The cleric wakes up and performs his morning devotion. A huge smile breaks out on his face as he prays. Domi has blessed him again, granting him another thread for his tapestry.
Trellus cheerfully breaks his fast with his parents and siblings, excuses himself, and sprints to Gilan's hut. He enters beaming, and walks right up to Grymash.
"Dude, check out this pick," he says, casting REMOVE CURSE on the half-orc.
Anuk Thursday January 22nd, 2004 11:15:57 PM
Anuk wakes up a little bleary, but happy. Stayed up a little too late writing in his new journal and trying to remember everything the pack has been through.
After getting cleaned and dressed, he heads over to Gilan's house. Poking his head through the door he addresses Grymarsha as she cooks.
"Mmmmmm...that a mess of blindbabies you're cooking?"
ADM Mike Thursday January 22nd, 2004 11:27:21 PM
Gry's cooking and Gilan's bread and fruit are surprisingly tasty and there is plenty to go around. All who want to eat their fill.
When Trellus arrives and casts his spell, everyone watches to see what will happen. There is a brief but brilliant burst of light. It dies down, and Grymarsha is still standing in front of everyone. It would appear nothing has changed. Until Gry notices that the belt seems to have loosened a bit...
Flea Thursday January 22nd, 2004 11:50:03 PM
Flea sits at the table, moving a little bit of Gry's cooking around the plate. There is a little pile of crusts of bread, and the remains of some fruit on the table beside the plate.
She asks the other's seated at the table, "If no one wants the stuff Black gave us, why don't we trade it in for something we do want? If we're ever going to go back out there I want one of those nifty cloaks I've seen in the market."
Flea goes on to explain a finely woven, unadorned cloak that is especially favored by merchants who traverse the Grass.* It offers protection from extremes of heat and and cold.
When Trellus arrives, the gnome watches with interest as the cleric weaves a shady new spell.
*Cloak of Comfort in Oshirr House.
Jake Thursday January 22nd, 2004 11:58:42 PM
Unnoticed, Jake continues to sleep in Gilan's house. Later on he wakes up, and in that weird, non-human way he sometimes adopts, wanders off to stare at nothing in particular for most of the day. Then, as night comes, he visits upon their 'enemy pack', with a peace offering of glass grass. Before they can react, he's off to assume his more human self, heading to pick up more glass grass at the local distillery, amazed at how much money he has and how easy it is to get now.
Grymarsha (maybe Grymash) Friday January 23rd, 2004 2:06:34 AM
"WHoooshh" and Grymarsha rubs the white light, from Trellus' spell, from her eyes. "Trellus whut dat be ... me eyes no see!?" After the inital shock wears off, Gry feels the grip of the belt weaken. Her eyes widen with excitement. Feminine half-orc hands quickly attack the buckle. If Gry is able to take off the belt, he flings it to the ground, grabs his quarterstaff and commenses to beat it to death. "GRY HATE BELT, GRRR ... BELT, HUH, BAD ... UMF, DIE BELT DIE!!"
Gilan Friday January 23rd, 2004 5:15:23 PM
Gilan takes the time to eat and glances up when Trellus enters. He smiles as Trellus casts a remove curse spell upon Gry.
As Gry hopefully rips the belt off and tosses it to the floor he watches as Gry starts to beat it. He laughs lightly to himself as the half-orc cusses the belt. With a last laugh he looks around to the others and motions to the food. "Eat up people...we have to go to the monastery this morning."
Trellus Friday January 23rd, 2004 9:45:28 PM
The cleric waits in anticipation.
Will Gry change back?
Anuk Friday January 23rd, 2004 10:20:06 PM
Anuk cleans up the last few morsels of food from breakfast and then helps clean the food and plates. "Thanks for the food Gilan! Good birds, Marsha!"
When Trellus performs his spell Anuk looks on in anticipation. After a moment he says, "Umm...was something supposed to happen?" But then, Gry takes off the belt and begins beating it. "Ah, yes...I see. Back to normal," says Anuk with a smile.
ADM Mike Friday January 23rd, 2004 10:57:05 PM
As Marsha fumbles with the buckle and removes the belt, suddenly Grymash is back before your eyes! The roar of his curses and the crack of his staff fill the air as he vents his fury on the belt. Oddly, despite the beating, the belt seems to remain in fine shape.
This cheerful moment is interrupted by the sound of a rap at the open window. Standing outside the window and looking in is a monk.
"Many shadows, my young friends. My, that's quite a bit of noise you are making. Some of it is quite...how shall I say this...colorful? Please, mind the ears of the children playing outside," he says with a smile.
"Oh, I've forgotten my manners. My name is Brother Kensi. I come with a message for the one called Trellus. Brother Falin bids you to come to the monastery at your earliest convenience if you desire his help today. He has business that will take him outside the walls of Rattledam by mid-day."
With a slight nod, Brother Kensi bids you farewell and disappears down the path running past Gilan's hut.
Flea Saturday January 24th, 2004 12:04:04 AM
Although Flea doesn't think she can use any of the items Gry identified as being magic, she is none the less curious about what they might be.
"So what are we bringing to this Brother Falin?" she asks. Looking over at the pile of stuff, she adds, "the bracelet isn't magic, nor the silk scarf, and Gry knows what the scrolls say, right?"
So what's left?
Jake Saturday January 24th, 2004 2:33:20 AM
"Grymash, ye're back!" Jake runs over and claps the half-orc on the back cheerfully. "Hah! Trellus is da new king of shade. Hey, don't harm it..." Jake snatches it from the floor before Gry can hit it again and looks at the item. And thinks. His next words are slow and considered... "Say, Trellus, you can do that again, right...?" A glint comes in his eyes, and before anyone can say anything, he dashes off heading out with the speed of a rapke.
(Muwahahaa....!)
Trellus Saturday January 24th, 2004 10:35:37 AM
"Yes!" Trellus crows as Gry becomes Gry again. "Praise to Domi, you're OK!"
"Jake, don't....light." The man sighs in exasperation. "Lets get this stuff to the monastery and get going before a lady Malgo or Galafar show up at our door. The image of Galafar as a woman lingers in Trellus' brain for a while, and he can't help but chuckle.
The summons to the monastery breaks his daydream. "Right. Let's take the shield, sword, mace, bracers, and the potions. C'mon dudes!" The cleric helps bundle all the stuff up, and leads everyone over to find Brother Falin.
Grymash Monday January 26th, 2004 1:12:54 AM
Grymash's brow wrinkles with confusion when Jake grabs the belt and runs off with it. Gry wasnt finished killing it! He looks at all the smiling faces staring at him. "Huh, whut?!" not knowing why everyone is so happy. Gry realizes his voice sounds deep again. Suddenly he pulls off the silk scarf. "Gry bumpys gone, me hairy man chest back!!" Grymash turns his back to his pack and checks down stairs. "Gry poppa back too ... it ALL BACK!!! Me Grymash again ... GRY IS BACK, WHOOOOOHHHHH!!!"
Gry becomes so excited he starts to hop up and down. He lunges at priest of Domi in a fit of pure joy. Slapping shoulders and hands of anyone in reach. In fact Grymash reaches out to whomever is close and squeezes them all in for one huge hopping group hug.
Freshly Squeezed [DM Matt] Monday January 26th, 2004 10:45:03 AM
"Errrrrrrrg!" is the sound that comes from Trellus, Anuk, and Flea as they are bearhugged by a surprisingly joyful Grymash. Just think what it would be like to be hugged like this if he were mad!
Jake beats feet out the door with his prize. Giggling to himself about what he plans to do, he runs across the village, passing Brother Kensi on the way.
"Ah, ah, ahhh!" he hears from behind him, "Slow down, child. This isn't a race."
Trellus Monday January 26th, 2004 4:45:47 PM
"Errrrrrrrg!" Trellus grunts as he's orchugged.
Finally managing to disentangle himself from Gry, Trellus picks up the bag of stuff and says, "Let's weave, dudes. Brother Falin is waiting!"
He goes with his pack to the monastery. On the way, he remembers Flea is pretty new to Rattledam. "Flea," he grins, "All these beaters are priests of Pantheon. They don't have much of a sense of humor. So try to look as sober and miserable as you can till they help us out."
At the monastery, he finds Brother Falin by simply asking everybody he sees where the man is located.
Gilan Monday January 26th, 2004 6:24:59 PM
Gilan takes the slap from Gry as stoicly as possible, despite the fact it almost knocks him down. He rubs his shoulder as the big man enwraps the others in a hug. "Glad to have you back Gry." He sobers as Jake go running out his door and groans. This will most likely not be too good for the pack.
He follows along with the others as they make their way to the monastery. He slips up beside Trellus and nods. "That was a good weave with the spell earlier...I think Gry will remember this in the future." He glances to Flea as Trellus speaks up and grunts. "Yeah...any sort of happiness is like a sin to them." He adopts a somber face as they make it to the monastery. He is actually no longer pretending to be in a bad mood after they have had to ask almost everyone in the monastery about this brother.
Flea Monday January 26th, 2004 6:34:16 PM
Flea hopes she looks somber enough in her black leather garb. She pulls the faded blue ribbon of finest silk out of her hair, and tucks it in a pocket. It is hard to keep the smile from her lips, or the sparkle from her blue eyes. She knows the treasure is of significant value, and when she gets her fair share, she's going shopping!
Anuk Tuesday January 27th, 2004 1:29:28 AM Gry, you're back! This is the shadiest thing ever! Woohoo!! thinks Anuk as he's crushed in the big guy's embrace. Trying to express his feelings, he looks at Gry and utters the only thing he can.
"...erf..." **wheeze**
When all is over he follows the others to the monastery. He keeps low, hoping to hide his face from so many monks he and the others have played pranks on over the years.
Grymash Tuesday January 27th, 2004 5:13:06 PM
Grymash finally calms down from his celebration. He feels good, the first time in a long time. He grabs the red satin scarf and wraps it around his waist, like a sash. He thinks, It no kill any one ta have uh splash of color ta make outfit not so plain. Gry thinks it's strange that he's never considered such things before. Plus red is Gry's favorite color. Shady color ... pretty like blood!
After they start on their way to the monastery, Grymash practices a somber facial expression. He experiments with various frowns, jutting his large jaw in and out. He wonders how much tusk to show. Should he just stare at the ground the whole time. Grymash turns to the others and asks without moving his lips, in order not to mess up his expression, "hayy, ezz diz fass uh guud wonn?"
Flea Tuesday January 27th, 2004 11:14:03 PM
After spending a great deal of time walking about the monastary looking for Brother Falin, Flea starts to get a little worried, and a little hungry.
She hangs back, and asks the half-orc, "got anything good to eat, Gry?" Noticing the silk scarf lied sash-like about the barbarian's waist, she nods approvingly, adding, "it suits you!"
No Running in THIS Pool [DM Matt] Wednesday January 28th, 2004 12:23:41 AM
Jake immediately stops his run, annoyed that he's been caught.
"What have you got there, child?" says the monk approaching. "Ah! a belt. Well, you'd best be careful with that. You wouldn't want to damage it. Off you go then. Ah, children, you're on your way at last."
This last he says as the rest of the party comes galloping up on their way to the monastery. He turns to leave when something catches his eye. "Very nice, son. That's quite striking." indicating Grymash's new sash, "Mind your manners in the monastery, now."
He walks towards the now visible large structure of the monastery. A small brown and black dog , perhaps a terrier type of mutt, comes up to bark at you.
[My rules regarding posting: I won't post until I've gotten at least half of the group (or more under certain circumstances) posting for the day. I don't mind double posts if it's just to reply to another player's comment or question (although don't make a big habit of it), but do not perform any other actions in a second post.]
Jake Wednesday January 28th, 2004 12:37:26 AM
Jake stammers out an apology to the monk and subtly tucks the belt into his coat when he spots the group approaching. He sneaks off again, this time facing one of the toughest decisions in his life; to try to sell the belt as a way of making money, or to try to trick someone into wearing it. "Decisions, decisions," he mutters to himself.
Trellus Wednesday January 28th, 2004 5:05:09 PM
Inwardly groaing at the prospect of getting called "child" a couple of dozen times, Trellus takes the load up to the monastery to find Brother Falin.
"Woof right back at ya," he laughingly tells the dog.
Grymash Wednesday January 28th, 2004 5:16:34 PM "If dat little yappin' piggie bite Gry, me havin' it for dinner!" says Grymash to his packmates.
Gry is already getting ticked. He hates being called a child.
Flea d20+7=17 Wednesday January 28th, 2004 5:23:52 PM
Flea follows along with the group, a little confused by what is going on. She scans about (Spot=17) to see if she recognizes anyone.
Gilan Wednesday January 28th, 2004 6:52:44 PM
Gilan seems slightly distracted as the packs makes their way to the monestary. He seems to be lost in thought as to something but he has not brought it to the packs attention. Then again maybe it is a personal problem that he needs to deal with.
Jake Wednesday January 28th, 2004 9:44:10 PM
Jake thinks to himself. This sort of thing could be quite useful in other ways... in fact... the more Jake thinks about it, the more he decides he can't just use it and waste it. This sorta gag or gift or bribe, whatever it may be, has to be saved and lulled, waiting for just the right moment... He heads back to a place where he sometimes hides things and puts the belt there along with a few other things he needs to unload, then heads back to the monastery, figuring he'll meet the group up there.
Anuk Wednesday January 28th, 2004 9:45:29 PM Wonder what those potions do, thinks Anuk as they wander through town to the monastery. Hope we find something useful in there.
"Need a hand carrying any of that, Trellus?" he asks his friend. If Trellus says yes, he gladly grabs whatever needs to be grabbed. "Always best to look busy around the monks, eh?" he says with a wink.
Looking Busy [DM Matt] Thursday January 29th, 2004 1:15:35 AM
The group obediently trudges to the monastery. Anuk tries to look busy as he thinks about "all those old guys" looking down on him.
Flea sees people here and there, typical day in Rattledam. Everyone kind of looks the same....dirty.
Grymash growls back at the dog and it whimpers and runs off, knowing full well what Grym is thinking of doing.
The large wooden doors of the monastery creak open. The inside is full of candles flickering and a sweet smell which tries to cover up a very old smell. Various bald heads and large cowls bob and weave their way in and out of view. Someone quickly approaches you and quietly says, "Quietly and quickly please. This way. Hats please." indicating you should remove any headgear while inside.
You meander through the place not even knowing who your guide is. Until he unlocks a series of doors with a large key. He opens a dark redwood door and inside is a man on his knees with his back to you. He mutters deeply but you can't quite make out what he's saying. In front of him is a symbol on the wall. Your guide ushers you in and then leaves closing the door behind you.
Flea Thursday January 29th, 2004 7:12:27 AM
When their guide goes through the machinations of opening the locked doors, the rogue's hands twitch. As the party passes through each door, she runs her hands lovingly over the door knob and bolting mechanism.
When the group arrives in the room with the kneeling monk, she takes a place to one side and back of the pack, in order that the more charismatic members can present their case.
Trellus d20+7=18 Thursday January 29th, 2004 2:31:45 PM
The cleric happily hands Anuk part of the equipment the pack is bringing for the promised identification.
Frowning slightly at the reception, Trellus dutifully follows the priest into the dark room. He glances at the symbol in mild curiousity (Knowledge - Rel check 18).
Taking the mumble for a greeting, the young man says, "Brother Falin? I brought the stuff to get identified as you instructed."
Anuk Thursday January 29th, 2004 6:25:21 PM
Anuk enters the monastery with the others. Looking around reminds him mainly of a lot of hard work when he was younger. Just the thought makes his back ache a bit.
When they enter the room with the kneeling man, Anuk tries to hide his discomfort with a barely audible, "Uh...hi."
Gilan Thursday January 29th, 2004 7:22:27 PM
Gilan slips in with the others but keeps himself busy with other thoughts. He glances up once to see this Brother Falin and then looks to the others.
He silently wonders what the others have decided for thier future or if they have even taken the time to ponder it yet.
Senility Creeping in? [DM Matt] Friday January 30th, 2004 8:18:22 AM
Brother Falin raises a hand indicating "patience..." while continuing to mumble and you realize he's not mumbling to say "hi" but as some form of ritual. (Spellcraft 20 to tell what it)
You all continue feeling uncomfortable. Trelus thinks to his knowledge, that symbol, a green ship's wheel-looking thing with the tiny hammer coming out of it, looks like Pantheon.
FINALLY the monk rises, having a little trouble balancing on aging knees, and takes a large leather pouch with a long strap which he slings over his head and under his right arm.
[Spot check 16]
"We are ready," he declares and to your surprise, LEAVES THE ROOM!
A bit flabbergasted, you follow, not quite having any idea where this guy is leading you. He goes through lots of doors again and finally exits the building.
Trellus d20+6=23 d20+8=18 Friday January 30th, 2004 10:01:48 AM
[Spellcraft check 23]
Realizing that Falin is casting a spell, Trellus waits patiently. After all, he probably needs to do something like that to identify the pack's goodies.
[Spot check 18]
Then the beater leaves the room. The cleric sighs inwardly. He should have known better than to expect help from these guys without getting some kind of secret run around first. What is it about the Circles that makes people flat refuse to just answer the grass-bit question?
His mouth tightly set, Trellus rolls his eyes and nods his head toward the door in a "c'mon" motion to the pack. In resignation, he follows Falin, wondering how long this is going to end up taking.
Grymash d20+2=8 d20+2=21 Friday January 30th, 2004 3:39:52 PM
Grymash looks on with his manufactured somber facial expression. He hears some mumbling coming from the old monk but isnt aware at what was being said (Wis check 8). If it were a spell, he wouldnt know how to determine what was cast since he could never get a grasp of basic Spellcraft. Cedric, his clerical mentor, nearly ended his own life out of frustration when trying to train Grymash in the art. Only through the power of Gargul himself could Gry cast his spells at all.
However in the monk's dark room, Grymash's eyes are keen with the absence of light (Spot check 21). "Dat be strange!," Gry thinks after seeing what he saw.
Grymash's eyes roll with aggrivation when they have to keep on walking through the maze of doors and corridors only to go back outside again.
Jake Friday January 30th, 2004 6:14:37 PM
Jake heads back to the cathedral but doesn't see the others outside...sighing, he decides to wait around for them to show up, unless it takes too long. In the meantime, he tries to hang around outside of the sight of the monks, in the refreshing shade of the cathedral.
Flea d20+7=22 Friday January 30th, 2004 7:07:25 PM
Flea gamely follows her pack-mates. The rogue keeps her eyes open for any unguarded trinkets that might be easily pocketed.
Gilan Friday January 30th, 2004 10:11:26 PM
Gilan glances to Trellus and shakes his head in frustration. Will this secrecy thing never end for them. Though he has decided to join full heartedly with the circle and ask no more questions too soon...he is started to feel a little bothered by half answers.
He keeps an eye out for any possible problems as they continue to follow Brother Falin to wherever he is leading them.
Oh to be out in the sunlight again, with the cool air blowing across his face.
Anuk Saturday January 31st, 2004 12:01:26 AM
As they wait in the darkness, Anuk carefully begins to lay out the collection of treasure so that the identification process can move smoothly and quickly. Then, Brother Falin exits!
"Wha? Oh, light!" mutters Anuk as he gathers up the armload of stuff and then hurries to catch up with the monk outside.
Field Trip [DM Matt] Monday February 2nd, 2004 12:20:24 PM
Trellus realizes that the mumbling sounds somewhat like a prayer, seeing as how he's kneeling to a holy symbol and all, but there are distinct magical tones within that resemble rites of identification. So he has actually started after all!
As Flea is looking around she sees a type of message board with notes and schedules and assignments and a large scroll scrawled with "Performing a service for group of kids coming in the morning. Please guide them to me in the chapel. Brother Falin."
Jake watches the monks go in and out. Some of them give him dirty looks as they exit. One even takes a damp cloth and starts scrubbing his face. As this happens the door opens and out walks Brother Falin and the rest of the party.
Falin leads you all through the streets still muttering to himself and concentrating very succinctly on an object in his hand. Trellus spies that it is a smooth gray stone. It somewhat seems like it's pulling him. "Be ready children. We'll be exitting the city for a bit. It doesn't always go this far." he finally says. Well at least he's talking to you now.
As you pass through the gate, you do indeed feel the heat and wind on your face. Looks like its going to be a scorcher today. The grass sways and bakes with you as you start tromping into it. Then suddenly Brother Falin stops, not from the rock but by something he sees poking over the grass and coming round a bend in the trail.
He turns to you all in a little bit of panic, "Quickly children. Back. Back into the city. Now!"
Coming around the bend about 60 feet away is a very strange looking eight foot tall creature of immense proportions. This aberration seems to be a very muscular barechested human wearing black bants with a large frame, but with what looks like a bull's head. Its hair is dark and ratty and the sharpness of his wide black horns look almost as painful as the large axe it carries on its shoulder.
Juxtaposed to this is the beast's accomplice, an average sized and average looking human woman dressed in browns and greens with a black belt and a long sage green cloak that billows around her in the wind. She carries a tall staff with very strange symbols carved into it.
[They are sixty feet away and don't notice you yet. It is your round to act.]
Grymash d20-2=15 Monday February 2nd, 2004 1:24:45 PM
Grymash's jaw drops at the sight of the horned beast that walks upright. The image reminds him of an illustration in his book of Gargul (Int check 15). An image of a huge humanoid figure with horns atop its head. Gargul, with a choir of angels, casts the creature back into the infernal realms. Then it becomes all too clear to Gry ... this large horned figure must be a DEMON!!!
Grymash reaches for his double axe, but it isnt there. He holds a quarterstaff instead. He growls in frustration. He's not wearing his armor either. His growl becomes more furious!
"STOP DEMON ... NO COME HERE ... DEMON ONLY FIND DOOM IN DIS PLACE!!" bellows the loud barbaric priest. "GRY SPEAK IN GARGUL NAME, AN GRY SAY YA BE DOOMED!!" With the utterance of those final words a wave negative energy shoots from Gry's hand and engulfs the horned giant. It's embrace is cold and full of dread. (Casting Doom spell. Will Save DC 13. If fail, the target becomes Shaken and suffers a -2 to attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks and saving throws.)
Trellus d20+3=17 Monday February 2nd, 2004 3:52:51 PM Where is this beater taking us? the cleric wonders.
It is all too soon before Gry's warp is way up, and even Brother Falin is panicky.
But, there's something about these two that Trellus swears is familiar. He can't place it, just a tickle in his brain saying these dudes are shady. Unless Gry really twists em, anyway.
"Everybody just warp down!" he yells. More quietly, he starts giving instructions, "Nuk n Flea, left. Gil n Jake, right. Stay easy."
Making a mental note that leaving the armor in the caves may be a bad idea, the unarmored cleric of Domi moves around Gry and plants himself directly in front of the half-orc, effectively blocking his immediate path.
Facing the two strangers, the young man, sweat trickling off his blond crew cut, speaks loudly again. He keeps his tone nice and easy in an attempt to offset somewhat the effects of Gry's spell.
"You shady, dudes? Sorry about the spell." He smiles easily, "You dudes really scared us there. We kinda got this rule that sneaking up on people in the Plains is a pretty bright idea. Anyway, It'd be most waxed if you just stop there, keep your hands off the really big axe, and let us know what you're up to out here."
[Diplomacy 17]
Anuk Monday February 2nd, 2004 6:42:16 PM
Anuk follows Falin and the others outside of Rattledam, carrying his armload of stuff. Goin' outside the walls just to find out what this is? Better be worth it is all I can -- whoa.
Anuk stops mid-thought at the sight of the creature and the woman. Trying to gather his thoughts and wishing he'd brought his bow, he steps to the left of Trellus and stands there trying to look fierce. Frankly, it's not working so well.
Gilan Monday February 2nd, 2004 6:59:05 PM
Gilan follows the monk out of the city and into the grasses. He shakes his head wondering where this monk is taking them and why it needs to be outside of the city.
When the others start pulling up short he glances around and almost trips over Flea. He takes a double take of the huge horned beast that stands on two legs and then to the female with it.
He moves off to the side as Trellus orders but then stops as Gry goes into his spill. "Ohhh...bother...not again." He just wishes for once Gry could not do that to everyone they meet. Being unarmed is bad enough but that big one has a very large axe. "As he says, please forgive our big friend...he often acts before he thinks...but that is not his fault." He hopes that they can smooth this over and he also wonders why it is that the monk seems so afraid.
"Brother...would you mind telling us what is wrong?" He glances between the two newcomers and the monk as he asks. "They have shown no signs of hostility to us?" Still he makes ready to beat a hasty retreat if need be.
Machesthai d20+2=18 d20+4=21 Monday February 2nd, 2004 7:54:38 PM
The minotaur stands his ground, whispering thanks he gives to Domi for his continued favour as the spell breaks over him (Will save = 18, 21 vs Fear) and subsides. His dark eyes attempt to pick out any scurrying for cover (Spot check = 21) as the others begin to speak and defend.
"There are noo de-amons here. Just a lass seeking out her kith an' kin inside yon' gates, an' I'm a'makin' sure she gets there unassailled." He exchanges a brief, reasuring glance with Tishe' before acknowledging to the group ahead "You donnae look much like bandits..."
Grymash Monday February 2nd, 2004 8:05:44 PM
(Historical note: Gry has never attacked anyone he's met in the wild without being attacked first. He does have a problem with trusting them, for good reason; but he's never attacked on sight. Until now. :)
"Not you see da DEMON?! Big dude wit pokey horns on head. Gry see him in Gargul book. DEMON EVIL!! DEMON come ta stomp Rattledam!" Grymash is amazed that some in his pack dont believe him. Gry has never seen such a creature in all his life. Only within the pages of his holy book of Gargul. The one thing in the world he puts his complete trust in.
Flea d20+23=29 d20+9=17 Monday February 2nd, 2004 9:08:40 PM
On Trellus' command, Flea sweeps left following Anuk. The rogue makes every effort to blend into the grass (Hide=29) as she takes up a flanking position. As she passes the ranger, she whispers, "pass out the gear, some may be able to use it if we must defend ourselves." The gnome then listens intently to what the fearsome fellow with the horns is saying (Listen=17) and is surprised to hear him invoke the name of Trellus' god.
Jake Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 12:15:11 AM
The half-elf watches the scene with some vague amusement. If the two do attack, he expects they'll be able to take care of them. Though he wouldn't want to get in fight with the lady... "He don't look like a demon to me, he looks like one of dem things...........a bull?" He shrugs at the looks of others. "I hear they're like horses." As if that explains anything. His eyes go back to the pretty woman with the strange staff. Nuts, he thinks to himself. More magic.
Tishe' Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 12:21:19 AM
Talking animatedly to Mac towering three feet over her head, Tishe' doesn't notice anything in the grass until an angry shout about demons and black pall momentarily assails them. Unprovoked attacks are the worst kind of bullies! Nothing is wrong with her reflexes as she lets go of her staff, and raises her hands in an obvious spellcasting gesture. She doesn't get her hands to shoulder level before her large companion answers the shouts. Well, if Mac is willing to give talking a try, Tishe' will not be the lesser person. She lowers her hands. "If Mac wants to talk, we'll talk, but if you are just a bunch of hoodlums trying to pick our weave, you've got another thing coming." And she moves to address the short-haired blond man stepping in front of the angry orc. "I don't know about any bright ideas, but we're certainly not shady." She glances at her large companion. "We're fine upstanding travellers!"
Stephen: Game Notes will soon be deleted :) Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 10:04:10 AM
I like to welcome the newcomers to the game. The Sargrass Plains is a very special place. Very unique. And I invite the newcomers to the game to follow these links (and even some of the current players) and read up on what makes the Sargrass Plains so unique. There are explainations for almost everything a player needs to know so far. Even info on the local slang.
Quick note: Shady means good. Bright means bad. And there are no bulls or horses in the Plains. If none of us have left the plains, we would more than likely have never heard of such beasts. However, more Plains creatures are in development. The area is still being invented. :)
Whooooooooo are you? Who Who. Who Who! [DM Matt] Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 5:53:24 PM
Brother Falin comoes forward cautiously as the two being talking.
"Excuse me for staring. But what are you?" he inquires of Mac. "Children be on your guard." he whispers to the rest as he moves forward a bit?
"And madam I note your Hook City accent. Am I correct?" "Pardon my panic but you surprised me. I thought you someone else. But what are you seeking here in our city please?"
He seems very interested in the newcomers.
Gilan d20+2=13 Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 7:05:18 PM
Gilan takes an easy stance as he watches the events unfold before the group. He looks to the minotuar and shakes his head. "I seem to remember some of your kind back at my home." Searching his memory (int 13) he slightly remembers about a race like this. "I believe that he is a minotaur...they use to come and trade at my dad's store." Giving Mac an appraising look he nods and slowly steps forward beside Trellus. "They have an honor system...so I believe him."
With a bow to both the people he glances back to the others. "We are not hoodlums but we are curious about both of you...if you have the time we would love to hear your stories." He glances to Mac and wonders if he will grace them with tales of his homeland and race.
[Gilan was not born and raced in the Plains originally. His father and mother were wealthy merchants so it is most possible that he has seen minotaurs before.]
[I was not talking about Gry attacking anyone before. Just that he speaks that way before he thinks. I know that Gry is challenged in that area. :) This is what makes him so fun to play in the same game with. :)]
Grymash d20-2=12 Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 9:04:40 PM
Grymash grits his teeth in frustration. Trellus is always hopping in front of him at the worst possible times, blocking his path. Just like his old pet lizard, Hissy. "Poor squished Hissy," thinks Gry as his mind strays for a brief moment. Grymash's attention quickly returns and he glares back at Trellus. He hasn't forgotten that his friend has given back his manhood and that was enough to keep him from getting smacked.
"Hissy ...err uh, Trellus, yew not hear girlie say dat biggie horn dude no shady? Gry never hear words 'bout minotar or horsebulls ever!"
When the old monk makes mention of the Hook City accent it reminds Gry of something that happened out in the wilds. "Dat funny girlie talk," Gry thinks. He's heard it before. (Int 12) Suddenly his eyes widen when his thought connects with a memory. Pointing at the female accusingly, Grymash blurts, "YOU ... da funny talkin' magik weaver dat blabbed in Gry ears all nite when Gry sleep, lots many nites ago!! Why do dat? Girlie not wit big horny dude then."
Trellus Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 9:36:58 PM
The cleric breathes a quick sigh of relief. Only a Rattledam wannabe could butcher the local slang as badly as that girl just did. Brother Falin's comment about a Hook City accent cements it. These, uh, dudes are not demons.
"She's just got the words wrong, Gry. Just like all the white-faced traders that try to get us to buy their junk," he assures his large friend. "C'mon dude. No demon would twist our talk that badly."
Deciding now would be a good time to get out of Grymash's path, Trellus eases his way over to Brother Falin. He gives Gilan a quick wink as he does, aware that the druid and Anuk have a running bet going as to when the 'jump in front of Gry' stunt gets the cleric stepped on.
"Brother, if these, uh, folk are simple travellers, may we continue our quest to identify our stuff?" he asks politely.
Machesthai Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 10:22:49 PM
Mac moves up to the right of Tishe' - he knows it isn't strategically smart, but he's not going to leave the girl in the thick of things and unsupported. Besides, this is just getting interesting. The word and memories catch up as he gets a closer view of these... people.
"I am Machesthai of Heranmar -- a minotaur, the son of Antonio, grandson of Xerros, and great-grandson of Morpheus and Aurora, who left their homeland in the Taur Isles some two centuries ago..." he looks at the faces displaying no recognition of the names, "I regret that I have little gift for tales though, and I am not due to travel that way for some time yet."
The half-orc's talk of dreams sparks a memory. He is suddenly aware of Trellus' religious acoutrements, and says with respect and a slight bow, "Tis an honour for one who does Domi's work to meet one who speaks his word!"
Despite earlier requests, the axe remains rested up on Mac's shoulder - the sun's rays reflecting sharply off the undecorated portions of the millstone sized blade.
Flea Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 10:50:32 PM
Sensing that discretion could be the better part of valour in this situation, Flea emerges from the grasses. The gnome with strawberry blonde hair, and clear blue eyes set in a slightly sunburned face, approaches the one called Machesthai. She holds her hands open, palms out, at shoulder height to show she bears no arms and greets him with a wide white gap toothed (and slightly strained) smile.
Flea decides to say nothing, until she is addressed directly, leaving introductions to the more charismatic folks.
Tiev and Zilia Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 10:53:54 PM
Two shiny bodied wasps, one slightly larger than the other, appear near Gilan. They hover protectively near the druid.
Tishe' Tuesday February 3rd, 2004 11:25:18 PM
"My, that's a lot of information to cover at one time!" Tishe' laughs pleasantly, all but forgetting her combative stance a moment before. She bends down and picks up her staff, looking at the group that comes out of the grass. Her face clouds in concentration on the many references to dreams. It couldn't be... could it?
Well, one things for sure, it looks like the Monk is in charge. "Indeed I am from Hook City," she says with a slight bow in his direction. "Though my mother was a foundling from Rattledam. As Mac has said," indicating the minotaur, "we met on a merchant boat travelling here. And since then, we have woven a like path."
The small, plain looking woman cocks her head at Trellus' patios. "My mother often picked a slang that others in the City found amusing. I couldn't understand some of it, but being a family of weavers, some made sense."
She seems to completely lose her train of thought when Flea steps out of the grass. Her eyes sparkle as the small gnome moves up to Mac. "Why, you are facinating!" Dropping her staff once again, Tishe' takes her own palms and places them against Flea's in an obvious gnome-greeting gesture, and smiles back.
"I am Tishe' Spellweaver, and it is a pleasure to meet you."
Anuk Wednesday February 4th, 2004 12:26:39 AM
Anuk watches as everyone's guard begins to drop. Things do happen fast around here, some days, he thinks.
Still carrying his armload of stuff, he offers a friendly smile to the woman when she approaches him. It fades a bit as he realizes she walked over to talk to Flea. He studies the large, bull-headed creature and recalls reading of others like him in the past, back at home in his father's study. Hoping not to offend, he approaches the minotaur and bows slightly. "I'm Anuk. Welcome to our home. May we ask what brings you here?"
Crunching through the Grass [DM Matt] Wednesday February 4th, 2004 12:06:23 PM
Brother Falin relaxes a little as the tales are told, "I'm Brother Falin", he says with a bow, "One of the monks which oversees this our abode. You will follow us now," he says to Tishe and Mac, "for we are on an errand and then I will lead you into the city. It would be unwise to enter by yourselves as you would be accosted even more than you have been now."
He turns and starts walking through the group again. He stops at Grymash and whispers, "Watch them."
He takes a few more steps and whispers to Trellus, "Watch HIM." (indicating Grymash)
He leads you all off the path and through the tall grasses. Dried grasses and insect exoskeletons crunch under your feet. Brother Falin continues to hold his hand with the stone out in front of him. He finally slows down his steps and then stops. In front of Brother Falin, you see a sunken path of sand. Brother Falin opens his bag and pulls out some sort of dust. He begins releasing the dust very succinctly and in spurts while starting to mumble again. The sand begins to separate as the dust hits it and after several more seconds of holding the stone above, the sand starts to spill downward out of site, but there strangely seems like an inexhaustable supply of it.
"Hand me the items." he says firmly.
Gilan Wednesday February 4th, 2004 8:18:31 PM
Gilan looks to the rest as Brother Falin decides it is time to move out again. He follows along as he watches the grass for plants that he recognizes.
When Brother Falin finally stops and begins his spell he watches with interest as the sand starts to part. He is even more curious to find out what will happen next and watches intently.
Tishe' d20+11=23 d20+11=21 Wednesday February 4th, 2004 9:56:31 PM
Like quicksilver, Tishe's attention is drawn to somthing else again, this time as Brother Falin speaks again. She quickly retreives her staff and, with a glance and shrug at Mac, follow the Monk.
"I don't want to be the cause of a disturbance in the city." She walks with the group, but makes sure she is next to her large companion.
She is VERY interested in what is obviously a spell that Brother Falin is casting in the dust. Perhaps it is something similar to what she knows of Spellcraft(23) or Alchemy (21)?
(OOC: Thank you for the info. I've read both several times already, but since Tishe' hasn't, I deliberately made her misunderstand.":)
Trellus Wednesday February 4th, 2004 10:02:30 PM
The young man grins in reply to the monk's instruction. He's been watching over Gry for years, and vice versa. That's what makes them the Bloodpack. They're all weft and web.
When Brother Falin completes his preparations, Trellus eagerly helps Anuk hand over the mace, shield, sword, bracers, and 6 potions.
He hovers in gleeful impatience to find out what they've got.
Flea Wednesday February 4th, 2004 10:15:06 PM
Flea is surprised by the strange woman's reaction to her presence, and taken aback when the magic user places her hands on Flea's own. The gnome giggles, "No! No! I'm just showing you that I bear no arms, and mean you no harm!"
The rogue nods her head in response to Tishe's introduction, then makes a fist with one hand, placing it on her chest, and covering it with her other hand. She bows her head first to Tishe' then to Machesthai, "Furtif Aeanora Flibbertigibbet of the Bloodpack, Rattledam, Sargrass Plains." Then with a big unrestrained smile, she adds, "my friends call me Flea."
Jake Wednesday February 4th, 2004 10:41:54 PM
Jake has been following along, and doesn't seem at all worried about this whole thing. "Hey there, big guy." He claps the 'minotar' on the back friendly-like. "Woah, shady seta muscles you got there. Say, ah betcher ev'n stronger 'n Grymash." he chuckles. "Ah bet you, that's a sight some people'd pay to see; an arm-wrasslin' contest between the two of yas. Ah'll tell ya right now, friends, ah would be willin' ta take bets on either side. Thou' ah'm naturally disposed ta favor the underdog, in account of mah respect for heroic undertakin's. In this case, you being the new guy, ah'd put mah money on you." Of course, Jake says all of this just so Grymash can hear the admiration in his voice, but there's a genuine current of friendliness towards these new guys as well, like he's accepted them into the community through his decision to play tricks with them.
Of course, through all this he smiles back whenever the pretty lady glances towards him. He's already decided to introduce himself at a more proper moment.
Grymash Thursday February 5th, 2004 12:49:40 PM
Grymash rolls his eyes when he hears Jake trying to strike up a deal with the horsbull demonotaur. "Wut did da demon call itself ... huh Macintar, huh demon ... NO me call him dat! Uh Minitaur? No, oh wells, Gry goes wit Demonotaur for now," ponders Grymash to himself.
Anuk Thursday February 5th, 2004 1:39:26 PM
Anuk approaches Bro. Falin and hands over the treasure he holds. He stands with Trellus and watches the ritual intently.
While they wait, he turns to Trellus and remarks, "Busy day today, eh? Just wanted to say, that was a good thing you did for Gry this morning. Nice pick on working out the countercurse. Thanks for figuring that out."
Gilan d20+14=22 Thursday February 5th, 2004 9:46:42 PM
Gilan takes his time to look around and see what he can find plant wise. He knows that there are plants out here that will help with muscle aches and relieve slight pain (survival 22).
He lets the others take care of the treasure and talk to Brother Falin. Keeping an eye on the newcomers he cannot help but wonder what this minotuar could tell him about minotaur life. The real question is should he ask or would it be a breach of ethics.
Tishe' Thursday February 5th, 2004 10:54:27 PM
Tishe also smiles at her mistake. Knowing Flea is now showing her a proper gnome greeting, she watches carefully. She places a fist on her chest and covers it with her other hand (noting which hand Flea uses). She then bows and returns the gnome's grin. "I think I'm going to like it here."
Christmas in July [Dm Matt] Thursday February 5th, 2004 10:58:29 PM
The monk solemnly takes the items. They all do things so proper and ritualistic, don't they...
He hovers the stone over each in turn and places them in the descending sand, which causes the items to spin as if caught in a whirlpool. He casts a last bit of dust upon them and mutters something else unfamiliar. Tishe picks up magical words and phrases and clauses and determines that Identification is their function.
Shortly the items begin to glows slightly in different colors The Shield and Bracers glow Green. While the Sword and mace glow red.
Two of the potions glow a faint white while two others glow a little stronger white. The last two glow different. One is marly white and black with white being dominant. The other is Red and purple.
"Now my friends, the mace and sword will help you a little in battle hit more accurately. The Shield and bracers defend you a little in battle. These four potions will heal you up with these two (indicating the stronger glow) being more potent. This will make you grow larger (the purple and red) while the other will slow down any poison in your veins."
The sand soon stops and he picks up the items and hands them back.
"Now we must return..."
He quickly leads you back to the village.
Tishe' Friday February 6th, 2004 11:05:33 AM
Tishe' obiediantly moves to follow the Monk to the city. No matter how much she picked from her mother, she realizes that she has much to learn out here on the Sargrass Plains.
"You must be quite important," she murmurs to Flea as they walk toward Rattledam. "Identification is an expensive spell. Why, I would have to destroy a pearl worth 100 gold to cast that spell."
Grymash d20-2=5 Friday February 6th, 2004 11:36:29 AM
Grymash says boastfully, "Gry identify magik papers all by me self. Gry can read magik words for free. Gry can read lots many words." His eyes dart back to the demonotaur. Making sure his attention doesnt stray too far and allowing his guard to go down.
Gry comments on the items. "Only thang Gry like ta keep for Gry is Make Big Potion. Dat make Gry one big shady beater. Bigger than horn dude over here. Gry like da silk belt now, but me sell if worth lots many gold ginglies."
Gry attempts to appraise the silk scarf based on what he would have payed for the silk rope if he hadnt gotten it for free. (Appraise 5) He hasnt a clue! "Flea does ya knows how much ginglies dis red silk thingy be worth?"
Mac Friday February 6th, 2004 12:14:18 PM
The Minotaur returns Anuk's bow. "Wanderlust for the mostpart. Since my grandfather's time the only distant travelling my kin have done are return trips back to the Isles to find wives. For the now I'm happy to find out what is out here."
Whilst Brother Falin does his thing (like Mac has a clue) he takes a few moments to fold -- bringing one foot across the other and after one nearly fluid motion is sitting crosslegged before Flea. "Greetings Flea. If people here use short names then I'm also called Mac.'fact most people do." He deftly brings the polished and honed greataxe off his shoulder and brings it to rest on both of his palms, with the backs of his hands resting on each knee. "This says that I openly bear a weapon, but that I do nae weild it ag'in' ye. Be there better way o' saying that 'round here?"
To Flea's sight Mac winces as Jake's clap contacts scar, and he exhales deeply through his nostrils. "Shady... yes. Been working the forge since I could weild hammer and tongs."
"Brother who or what did I remind you of when you first saw me?"
Grymash Friday February 6th, 2004 1:19:05 PM
Gry's eyebrow raises and he looks to Mac with much interest after he spoke to Flea. "You's uh smithy ... you's weave an beat dat axe togethur?" Gry's first civil words spoken to the visitor also expresses a small degree of acceptance to their presence.
Gilan Friday February 6th, 2004 6:29:34 PM
Gilan listens as the monk goes over what the stuff they have does. He shrugs as the others make comments as nothing is of particular interest to him.
When the time is called to return he makes his way back to town with the rest. He continues to listen to what the others are talking about around him. He moves up to walk by Trellus and nudges the man. "Seemed that we got some stuff that should help in our cause." He keeps some of his words cryptic as to not alert those around them, especially the new people.
[What is the email for our new DM? Not sure which one is his on the lists and need to send him a Catacombs purchase.]
Anuk Friday February 6th, 2004 6:39:31 PM
Anuk scoops up an armful of the booty and heads back to Rattledam with the rest of the group. As they walk, he addresses the monk. "Thank you, Brother Falin, for your help. How may we repay you for this kindness?"
When he has a moment, he turns to Mac. "Someday I'd like to hear more about the places you've been. You should know, though, that once we're inside Rattledam, the monks don't like anyone discussing the outside world. Not entirely sure why, to be honest, but that's how it is. Still...I think you'll like it here. I know people are gonna show a real interest in you," he says.
Tishe' Friday February 6th, 2004 11:22:12 PM
The small plain-faced woman is suddenly interested in the large one calling himself Gry.
"Magic papers? What sort of magic papers? And you can read them? How interesting!" Her eyes sparkle with energy.
Then she looks crestfallen. "No, if you could read them, they are yours, and I shouldn't pry."
Jake Saturday February 7th, 2004 2:56:14 PM
Jake trots on back to the town, humming. THese dirt-baked walkers are in for a surprise when they try to stay in Rattledam, he thinks. They're the most obvious outsiders he's ever seen. And if he's caught with them...Jake blinks, and says to the group, "Hey guys, I'll meet you back at Gilan's house. See ya." ANd he heads on.
Flea Saturday February 7th, 2004 8:59:58 PM
"Mac", Flea tries the name out, and smiles up at the huge creature, even in repose he is greater than her 3 ft., 3 inch self. "Can I touch it?" she asks, reaching out a tentative hand, before adding, "me mum and dad are craftspeople of a sort. Not from here!" she wispers hooking her thumb over her shoulder, to indicate the town of Rattledam, "I'm kind of new here, myself."
After examining the weapon admiringly, if Mac permits it, Flea excuses herself and moves over by Trellus, keeping her voice low and her eyes on the two newcomers, she asks "should we bring them back to town with us?"
Brother Falin [DM Matt] Sunday February 8th, 2004 12:51:13 PM
Brother Falin smiles and shakes his head, "Ah child. There is so much you do not understand. The only pearl I need is Pantheon. Perhaps you are in need of coming to some of our services."
When you arrive back in town there seems to be a big to do around. Just more people bustling then there was before. Before you enter, Brother Falin turns to Mac and Tishe and says, before you will be allowed into our city we will need to remove your weapons from you. You will get them back of course but it is for your safety as well as ours. Please hand them to Grymash please.
Mac Sunday February 8th, 2004 7:52:33 PM
OOC: Playing catch-up after one heck of a weekend. My apologies.
Still seated with Flea, Mac turns to Gry and his question. "This axe belonged to my great-grandfather Morpheus. There are some conflicting tales about how he came by it, but I'm willing to believe that he fashioned it himself..."
"Yes, Flea. You may touch it, but beware the edge -- if you'd like to keep your fingers." He says with with a serious smile.
"...His son -- my grandfather Xerros -- reforged the broken weapon while I completed an order of weapons for Captain Kelin of the Heranmar militia, and he entrusted his father's axe to me when I took up my apprenticeship with the militia as their weaponsmith, and soon militia-man. He has taught me how to care for it, but if it ever breaks again, I will seek his instruction and repair it. Adamantine is only ever worked by the master."
Mac nods to Anuk, "If this was anything to go by..."
Later... Mac follows Falin's request and carefully hands the axe to Gymash. The haft is clearly too far around to be held in less than two hands, so it is the bulk, and not the 24 pounds of metal that is cumbersome. He reaches into the backpack and produces from it a large dagger, and hands that over to Gry also. He turns to Falin. "Will he be needin' my smithing apron as well?"
Flea Sunday February 8th, 2004 10:22:04 PM
When they enter Rattledam, Flea ignores the small crowd. Addressing those that hold the items gained from the pack's recent defense of the cacoon, she asks, "if no one is claiming these items, perhaps we could trade them in at the Catacombs? I am in need of new equipment if we are ever to venture out into the plains again."
Flea remembers an item she once heard described. It was some sort of cloak* that protected one from the elements and was designed specifically for travel in the Sargrass Plains.
(*Flea is interested in purchasing a Cloak of Comfort as described in Oshirr house. Cost 1000.)
Gilan Sunday February 8th, 2004 10:56:15 PM
Gilan ignores the crowd that gathers to see the newcomers. Looking to Brother Falin he moves over to stand by him. "Brother...if it would help I could take the newcomers to my hut. It is not too big but it will allow them to find a place to stay and get away from the crowd?" He looks to the others of the group to see if anyone will back him up in this. They need to discuss a few things anyways as a group and the newcomers will not interfere with that.
Waiting to see what will come of his offer he will head for home with anyone that wants in tow. He already figures that Flea will be along as she might want to relax. With a thought he makes his way to Flea and gets her attention. "If you want to talk to Tishe' some more...how about bringing up the scrolls I have to you." With a smile he cannot help but laugh a little at the idea. "She maybe really interested."
Tishe' Monday February 9th, 2004 4:14:45 AM
Tishe' listens intently at Brother Falin's words (as well as the other comments around her), and she doesn't fail to notice Jake's hasty exit. Obviously, being a stranger in Rattledam is not easy.
"My mother revers the teachings of Pantheon, and I would love to learn more in the Temple of Justice." she tells the Monk. "As for weapons, I will follow your pick.", and gives Gry her staff carved in geometric designs and a light crossbow and quarrels produced from underneath her cloak. "They are only tools, and tools can be replaced. It is knowledge that is important." and she taps her temple.
At the same time, she understands from the others that questions and magic are also frowned upon. She may burst, but Tishe' sternly reminds herself to NOT talk or weave magic unless these new friends indicate otherwise.
"Master Gilan," she says with a nod, "your offer of your home is good weaving." She laughs at a thought and continues. "And growing up with three older sisters, I've no fear of small spaces!"
Trellus Monday February 9th, 2004 8:04:42 AM
The cleric happily follows the rest of the Pack back into Rattledam. Everyone seems to be taking to the new dudes quickly.
He nods at Flea's question about them. "Looks like Gilan's already voted them in," he remarks with an easy smile.
That treasure is still picking away at him, though. "Dudes, if nobody wants this stuff, I'd love to take both the shield and the mace. It just doesn't seem fair for me to take half the good stuff. None of you want the shield?"
"Flea, good idea about the catacombs. That cloak sounds shady".
Grymash Monday February 9th, 2004 10:26:53 AM
(What kind of axe is it and what is its size: medium, large, huge and so on. Im playing it as a huge weapon.)
Grymash takes the massive weapon from the demonotaur and his dagger that looks to be the size of a short sword. Gry has no trouble bearing its weight, however, even with Gry's large hands, the handle is quite large for him. Making it a bit too unweildy as a weapon. Though he hasn't any trouble carrying it across his shoulder.
Then the girl hands Gry her staff. He has to slide the knife under his belt and grasp both his quarterstaff and her staff in one hand. Gry is beginning to think that this is getting ridiculous. "Gry no carry any mores stuff. Gry no Load Beetle!"
Anuk d20+10=26 Monday February 9th, 2004 10:58:33 AM
"Well, thank you again for your help, Bro. Falin. Perhaps I will see you at services...um...sometime."
Anuk feels a bit guilty as he says this, knowing that he has no real intention of going. Just seems like it would be best not to insult the monk by just say no. So, with a grin he bids the monk farewell as they enter Rattledam.
The crowd does seem a bit bigger than usual, and Anuk glances around to see if the commotion might be caused by anything other than the arrival of the new people (spot 26).
Gilan Tuesday February 10th, 2004 12:12:45 AM
Gilan glances at Trellus and just shrugs. "It is not that...this crowd though could be bad for all of us." He will continue to move towards his hut.
Glancing to Tishe' as he walks he smiles and laughs. "Well I can at least offer the two of you that and some tea." He continues onto his hut while thinking over the past few events. He also ponders everything that they have witnessed and been through over the past few weeks.
Flea Tuesday February 10th, 2004 12:41:56 AM
"Lets have one last look at the stuff Black gave us after the battle. I'll take whatever isn't useful to the party to The Catacombs in exchange for six vouchers of equal value. Okay?"
Falling back to walk beside Tishe', Flea volunteers, "Gilan gave me some special papers, but, I can't read magic well enough yet to make good use of them. Maybe you would be interested in seeing them?"
Tishe' Tuesday February 10th, 2004 3:09:45 AM
Her eyes sparkle. "I would indeed, Flea. That would be..." she searches for a word, "shady."
Initiation [DM Matt] Tuesday February 10th, 2004 5:12:59 AM
There seem to be several gossip pools forming. Some kids. Some parents. Some seamen. Some of them are definitely staring in your direction, covering their faces, making strange gestures with their hands or hurrying children away from you. Brother Falin confides again, "Children, pelase help me escort our guests to the temple."
As Grymash is the unfortunate beast of burden, how can you refuse. You walk VERY uncomfortably through the streets. And you thought you'd get away from this kind of thing by coming to Rattledam where everyone has secrets.
Finally you arrive at the temple and enter the outer sanctum where you're placed in a room. Several monks wander by and are frightened away or intrigued in a rude stare-y way. Brother Falin then leads you into another room with three other monks which sit at a table, one of whom you recognize.
"So what have our 'favored' imps done now?" comes the patronizing voice of Galafar. Brother Falin explains the newcomers very slowly. In the room the rest of you quickly get bored. Your eyes glaze over and the incense smell makes your stomach turn. The questions are hurled quickly at Tishe and Mac, wondering what they are doing here, who knows they are here, who brought them, what they intend on doing, what they know, what their skills are, etc, etc, etc, etc.
And they seem to mean business! The monk are even more aggressive and patronizing than usual here.
After a bit they are all whispers and wait... and wait...
Finally Galafar says, "Our newcomers seem to require guidance in the ways of this city and as the good Brother Falin informs me, you have already made yourselves, shall we say, hospitable to them. Good. That will do. YOu will watch and guide them and teach them how to behave in Rattledam. As they are staying with you you may as well get some use out of them. Consider them part of your "pack" as of now." With that it seems the discussion is over and Galafar doesn't hang around for an argument.
Brother Falin quickly gathers you up and silently leads you all, sore butts and all out of the temple again.
Flea d20+23=39 Tuesday February 10th, 2004 7:18:10 AM
Trying to hide from the prying gazes (Hide=39) Flea feels sorry for the newcommers. She remembers all to well the rude welcome she recieved at the hand of some bullies when she first arrived in Rattledam.
When the pack is dismissed, Flea walks beside Tishe'.
Mac Tuesday February 10th, 2004 7:18:54 AM
OOC: Greataxe, two handed, large. Dagger, light, large.
"Well, thank you Brother Falin. What just happened? And you still haven't said what it was I reminded you of..." Mac says, rubbing the top of his snout.
Tishe' Tuesday February 10th, 2004 9:42:49 AM
While Tishe' loves questions and thier answers, this grilling by the Monks seems to be pointless badgering, and it really gets her dander up. While she answers as best she may, her sentences become progressively short. And sharp.
Outside of the temple, the plain woman sees Flea next to her. "My mother called my sisters and I a 'pack'. Does that mean we're like siblings now?"
She rubs her posterior. "Either way, after an afternoon of THAT" (she gestures) "all I want is someone to weave a good dinner and a bed."
Trellus Tuesday February 10th, 2004 10:00:16 AM
Trellus endures the interrogation stoically, knowing from past experience that talking or even sighing will accomplish nothing more than dragging out the process even longer.
Once out of the temple, he turns to the two newcomers with a half grin. "Welcome to the Bloodpack," he says lightheartedly. "Let's go to Gilan's place."
Once back, the blond cleric launches into some fast instruction. "OK, dudes. First rule in Rattledam is, nothing exists outside of Rattledam. You don't ever talk about it with anybody. 'Cept us. And then only when we're alone. That's part of what's twisting everyone with Mac. He's so totally not of Rattledam, they can't get around him."
Looking up at the huge bull head, Trellus addresses the taur directly, "Dude, this totally bites grass, but you have GOT to stay totally peaceful here in the town. Don't even appear slightly threatening, 'cause the beaters, er, thats what we call the monks, are looking for any reason to toss you out."
He takes in both of them again, and smiles widely as he glances at his packmates. "The good news is we've all felt what you're feeling. Some more than others (nods toward Gry, Flea, and Anuk), but we're all different from most dudes here. We understand. We'll help. A pack is a family, weft and web, woven together as one fabric. Stick with us, and we'll watch out for you."
His smile becomes wry once more. "Don't stick with us and we all get tossed out of here."
Jake Tuesday February 10th, 2004 1:34:10 PM
They come into Gilan's house to see Jake already occupying the most comfortable chair with a glass of wine in his hand. He can't help but grin at their obviously scrubbed faces and such. Listening to Trellus, he looks at the newcomers...more new packmates? Well, maybe not true packmates yet...just taggers along for now. He offers a drink to them. "It's glass grass," he explains. "Not exactly the best, but pretty good."
DM Matt Tuesday February 10th, 2004 3:15:10 PM
[Yes you're right. I meant Galafar, not Malafrat. Thanks to the braintrust that gave them such similar names. :) I've edited Flea's and Trellus' post to take out the appropriate bits about this issue. Or you may repost if you wish]
Gilan Tuesday February 10th, 2004 6:12:09 PM
Gilan cannot help but smirk just a little as Galafar makes his snide comment. He was always out to get them in trouble and thus kick them out of town. One of these days he would find that he needed the Bloodpack and they would have to decide if they would help him. He was not sure what he would do at that time...must wait and see.
After much sitting and listening to some of the same questions asked over and over they had been allowed to leave. As they left he took a big sigh of relief and then turned to Trellus. "One of these days that man will need us...we will decide how his thread is weaved." He could not help but smile a little at the thought.
As they enter his hut the find Jake already there relaxing with some glass grass wine. "You missed it Jake...a fun time with Galafar." He makes his way to his stove and quickly gets some water boiling. After a short amount of time he will have some tea ready for those that need it, a relaxing tea of his own make. "If someone would like to chech I am sure I have some eggs, sausage and onions in the cubby." He moves some day old bread out on the table with a jar of jam for anyone to snack on.
Anuk Tuesday February 10th, 2004 7:36:32 PM
Visibly agitated, Anuk stands nervously as the beaters jump down the throats of the newcomers. It wasn't pleasant for him when he had to go through it, and he doesn't particularly appreciate the reminder. When it's all over and the pack begin to file out, Anuk covers his mouth with a gloved fist and goes into a short coughing fit.
*bracghh!* *becghh!* *beaters!* *brach!*
If anyone looks askance at him, he feigns innocence and makes his way hurriedly out of the temple.
As they head to Gilan's he moves up alongside Tishe'. "We haven't really met yet, but I'm Anuk. Just wanted to say welcome to the pack."
Flea Tuesday February 10th, 2004 10:56:33 PM
When the group arrives at Gilan's place, Flea invites Tishe' into the cubby with the tiny bed and small chest of drawers given to her by the druid. She fishes around in her pack, hanging from a peg nearby, and pats the small bed, inviting the plain woman to sit. Flea hands Tishe' 4 scrolls* that had been given to her earlier by Gilan. "My friend gave these to me, but it is only with great difficulty that I can decipher the script to activate the magic they contain."
While Tishe' studies the scrolls, Flea excuses herself. Putting the longsword, bracers, silver bracelet set with amber, and the fine silk scarf in a plain bag of some woven stuff, she heads off to exchange the goods. "I'll be back soon. Jake, make us something good to eat, and don't let Grymash eat it all!"
* 4 scrolls of Mage Armour
Time to relax [DM Matt] Wednesday February 11th, 2004 5:48:02 AM
Brother Falin's only remark to Mac is "I feared evil and discovery." He does not seem to look at Mac for the rest of the way to Gilan's place.
Back at home base, things are definitely more relaxed and Jake has already started the party without everyone else and ironically Trellus is saying his "Don't stick with us and we get tossed out of here." line when they enter and see him sitting there in comfort...by himself.
After showing Tishe around a little, Flea starts taking things out of other people's bags. Among the items she takes are the magic sword and magic bracers.
[I don't really care how you guys divvy up magic items. But just so everyone is on the same page, you need to speak up now in character to claim things. Or if you guys want to start doing this in email that's fine too, but just make sure everyone has a chance to speak up. Last chance to speak while Flea is still in the room with you.]
The evening sets in and you indeed all become hungry and tired. Various people try to look in the window, wide-eyed or glarey.
[Do any business or whatever for the night]
xMac Wednesday February 11th, 2004 10:15:07 AM
Mac looks ernest enough as he thanks everyone for the welcome. His expression barely flickers as Trellus gives him the news. "I understand - I have seen this before.
Flea Wednesday February 11th, 2004 12:51:59 PM
Before she leaves for the store, Flea does a quick run down of the items the pack will keep:
1 special mace (Trellus) 1 special shield (Trellus) various potions (to be distributed as appropriate) scrolls (to be distributed as appropriate including to Tishe'!) 1 belt of gender change (Jake)
1 special sword (to be traded) special bracers (to be traded) silver bracelet set with amber (to be traded) silk scarf (to be traded)
vouchers and coins will be split 6 ways by the party that fought in defense of the drake.
"Did I forget anything?" asks the rogue as she stands on the threshold of the hut.
(OOC: Matt, there is mutual accord regarding the distribution of the treasure. We've been e-mailing each other.)
Cool. Copy me on those emails please. fenrsisulf@juno.com Thanks -Matt
Grymash d20-2=0 Wednesday February 11th, 2004 1:15:48 PM
Grymash returns with the pack and is more than ready to relieve himself of his burden. He takes his time and closely inspects the huge great axe. Showing it far more reverance than either his or Tishe's quarterstaffs.
Gry turns to Mac and asks, "Mac say dis made of Antman Tin ... uh me not can say. What Mac call it? Duh "A" word ... da name Mac give dis metal?" (Int check 0)
Knock Knock [DM Matt] Wednesday February 11th, 2004 4:30:47 PM
While handling your evening business, there is a sudden knock at the door. It is not a sharp aggressive knock, more that from a meek mouse, but it's a knock nonetheless.
Opening the door in the dimness you see the silhouette of a dingy robe and cloak. "Oh great, what do the monks want now?" you think.
You are relieved that this six foot tall "gentleman" is not from the circle. Despite the more-than-usual grime and dirt on his face and clothes, you see that it is in fact Sterlin Ebb.
Gilan Wednesday February 11th, 2004 5:15:46 PM
Gilan makes for the windows first and pulls the curtains to block out the lookie-loos. He turns to the two new people and bites on this lower lip. "I think I have enough room for both of you to stay." Indicating the upstairs piece of his hut he smiles slightly. "You could throw out a bedroll up there if you want...it would be hard to find another place to stay so late." With a nod at Trellus's words he looks to both Mac and Tishe'. "The man asking most of the questions was Galafar and he has a grudge against us....so he will not cut you any slack now that you are part of our pack." He shrugs again and starts gathering some of his supplies.
Gilan looks up at the knock and shrugs his shoulders, he had not been expecting anyone. When the door swings open he is surprised to find that Sterlin is the one behind it. With a smile he motions the man in. "Back for awhile?" With a look to the others he will let them greet the man first as he prepares a little meal of his own out of the onions, potatoes and sausages.
Sterlin Wednesday February 11th, 2004 5:54:04 PM
Sterlin nods and enters. " Yes, I'm back for awhile. I hope to be back for a long while now. That is if the bloodpack will take me. "
Anuk Wednesday February 11th, 2004 7:36:38 PM
"Sterlin! Welcome back!" Anuk stands to greet his old friend. "We've, uh, grown since you last saw us." He gestures to indicate Mac and Tishe'.
"Mac...Tishe'...may I introduce our friend and packmate, Sterlin."
Trellus Wednesday February 11th, 2004 10:19:00 PM
The cleric accepts Mac's reply with a nod. "Shady. If you get twisted too much, stick with Gry. They'll still push at the fabric, but nobody in this town will purposely get Grymash mad."
Answering Flea, the blond man responds with "sounds right".
"Gilan, when Flea comes back and we finish the last thread, I'll clear out and go home. That ought to give you some space."
The appearance of Sterlin is a pleasant surprise. "Sterlin! Welcome back! Whaddya mean 'take you'? You're weft and web!" Trellus looks a bit closer.
"You OK?"
Tishe' Thursday February 12th, 2004 4:44:28 AM
She listens closely to Trellus and the others, especially about Galafar's emnity. While not liking a bully in power, there are times when one has to be patient. "I take it I shouldn't call them a 'beater' to thier face," she says with a smile.
She accepts Gilan's hospitality for a place to sleep and the food. "I've slept in worse as an apprentice, never fear, and I am glad there is other food besides a merchant's bean soup to eat.
Looking at the strange new drink Jake offers, Tishe' rubs her stomach and seems to remember something. "Jake, that's sweet, but I've had poor experience with new drinks, and I think I'll stick to the famous clear water of Rattledam for now!"
Flea hands Tishe' some scrolls, and after a Read Magic spell, the wizard can hardly believe it. "You've only met me today, and you trust me with so much?! I've done nothing to earn this!" Her eyes go moist with tears. "The rest of Rattledam may not like the outside, but you have made me feel more at home than the day I left my apprenticeship. Thank you all, you are the weft and web."
The plain-faced Tishe' smiles and nods as she is introduced to Sterlin. He looks rather bedraggled, but his friends know better than she. She makes herself a cheese sandwich and takes a seat near Mac, fondly patting his huge knee in passing.
Mac Thursday February 12th, 2004 8:34:45 AM
Mac runs a smith's eye over the items to be traded. He smiles a slight smile towards Flea as they are bundle up. "I 'spect their worth much more, but if ye're not offered 25 platinum for the bracers, I'd give you that. I'd give you more if I had it." He tests the weight of his belt pouch in his hand. "Make that 25 platinum pieces and 25 gold pieces."
Mac turns to Gry "Adamantine" He pauses for a moment. "Ad-ah-man-teen. Works like steel, but it is tougher, harder and much rarer." As he turns the axe, he notices one side of the double-blade is polished clean and reflects with odd distortion, and the other side is also well kept, but the upper third is covered in intricate designs.
"So, Trellus, the monks are also Rattledam's watch? I knoo about bein' in the watch, but not so much about monks. An' yes, I'll keep nearby Gry, just incase some of them decide to test out their horns." He thinks for a moment that that phrase didn't translate well into common, and tries to leave it at that.
Mac takes up Jack's offer of a drink.
"D'y'think this Galafar put me with you so all his problems are in the one basket, Gilan?"
He raises half a glass to Sterlin as he is introduced - assuming (with a drink or two under his belt) that he isn't terribly out of place at all.
The minotaur smiles as Tishe' passes and takes her seat, and remembers that it was only that morning they were talking on the merchant ship - it feels more like a week, he thinks.
Grymash Thursday February 12th, 2004 10:20:40 AM "Ohhh shaadddyyy!! Ad-uh-man-teen is tougher an harder ... Gry want some too," says Grymash full of awe. Then an idea hits him. "Gry have sumethin' ta shows Mac. Gry be back quick." With that being said, Gry springs to his feet and scampers off into the darkness.
Gilan Thursday February 12th, 2004 6:11:10 PM
Gilan motions to an empty chair that Sterlin can sit in. "Sit Sterlin...you look about done in." Soon he has a nice big amount of food fixed up and lays it out on his table with some bowls and more bread. "You may want to get a little of this too Sterlin...you will need your strength." He smiles at him and then turns back to cleaning his other dishes.
With Tishe''s comment he just smiles and nods. Then he turns as he is drying a pan. "Not a problem really." He then glances to Trellus and shakes his head. "Do not worry about taking off too soon...have a little bit and lets talk of our next bit of plans." He nods to Mac and sighs. "It is exactly that Mac...he has no great love for any of us. It was another little way of getting back at us...or so he thinks." He cannot help but laugh as Galafar has just given the Bloodpack a couple great recruits.
Soon he settles into his own comfy chair and slowly eats some of the food he cooked. "What would everyone like to do next...see the dwarves, see about the Barons or check out the mountains?" He shrugs his own shoulders as he snuggles down into his chair. "All of them have some appeal to me...maybe we should wait for Flea...though thoughts would not hurt." He looks to the newcomers and his eyes sparkle. "At any rate we should let Mac and Tishe' in on what we have gotten as suggestions to explore next from Malafret."
[Going to say that Malafret gave us the different directions we could go for game purposes. I am not sure if we every made an actual decision.]
Jake Thursday February 12th, 2004 7:55:05 PM
Jake snorts. "Great...Whenever Grymash learns of something new or better, he always decks himself out in it completely. One time I had him convinced that if he doused his muscles in piggie plop, it would strengthen them after exercises..." Jake grins, stopping his story, realizing the amusing and embarassing story might make a bit of an impact on the new guys.
Flea d20+6=21 Thursday February 12th, 2004 11:16:12 PM
Stepping back from the door, Flea acknowledges Mac, "these still haven't been properly identified. If I learn anything about them that leads me to believe they would fit you properly, I'll bring them back!"
After pinching a sausage from Gilan's plate (Sleight of Hand=21) the rogue makes a hasty exit, smiling at Sterlin as she passes him by the door. She is growing used to the druid's mysterious comings and goings.
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