DM Jan Wednesday April 7th, 2004 12:22:35 PM
((OOC - sorry this is late folks. Very tired last night.))
Kernorn looked at Zayne with alarm as he was awoken suddenly, and surprisingly the man wouldn't go with him. Zayne would have seen fear and confusion in the man's eyes - frighteningly so. Kernorn's mental state seemed to have deteriorated significantly. This was not the same man the ranger had originally met, and he refused to budge.
(Vorelle would have been witness to this if she was on watch. Up to her if she tells anyone else. If anyone else can beat Zayne's DC23 move silent roll, they might have seen it, too.)
And so to the present -
The party heads down the Sewerfall ladders and lands at the spot where they'd had the fight with Mattison and his thugs. Kernorn is behaving very erratically. He seems afraid and jumpy. Rest didn't appear to have done him much good. He looks a mess. Some of his behaviour is almost childlike. Obviously there's something wrong, but its pretty baffling as to why a man can deteriorate like this in such a short time.
It takes him a little while to figure out which passage to take, but eventually, he leads the group in the direction they were originally heading.
It's pitch black in this section of the tunnel, and soon a strange, sweet smell drifts under everyone's nose.
Dietrich Wednesday April 7th, 2004 12:50:48 PM
The day before... Dietrich is surprised as Zayne doesn´t accept to drink with him and Vauhwyt and leaves the room. The fighter doesn´t understand why his friend is so upset, but, as he can´t do anything about it, he drinks with Vauhwyt. As Rose asks about the beer, Dietrich says it´s from his personal stuff and offers her and everyboody else a cup too. The soldier doesn´t like the idea of letting KErnon and the monster go away after they catched the beast. It´s not the consensus the party had reached before and it´s absolutely against his sense of justice and of risk assessment. When Kernon starts behaving even more like a mad man, it confirms Dietrich point about what to do with them later. For him, KErnon needs treatment and should be delivered to the Temple, while the Prince should decide what to do with the monster.
Now... Dietrich too puts the beewax in his ears and hopes it will protect him from the singing. He marches behind Kernon and feels the tension of adventure. He makes a silent short pray to Domi and stays alert. When the group senses the smell, he keeps the net prepared and a lantern ready to make light.
Rose HP: 12/12 DEX 15/16 d20+4=13 d20+3=8 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 12:59:30 PM
Rose is very worried about Kernorn and tries to figure out what is wrong with him. Before leaving she slaps some bread, meat and cheese together and eats it on the way.
Rose tries to figure out what the smell in the tunnel is but doesnt' recognize it. As it is dark in the tunnel she casts light.
heal check: 13 int check to id smell: 8
rose Wednesday April 7th, 2004 1:04:08 PM
oops we posted at same time:)
Rose politely declines the beer, explaining that she does not drink alcohol. She also casts mage armor on herself right before entering the tunnel. (she casts mage armor when entering tunner and light later in the tunnel)
Vauhwyt (HP 16 of 19, Dex 13 of 15, all spells available) and Mookie (HP 9 of 9) d20+1=5 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 4:02:39 PM
Vauhwyt is concerned about Kernorn. She wonders if he might be addicted to some exotic drug or venomous poison, and is in withdrawal (Local knowledge untrained roll = 5).
She whispers to the group that if he continues to deteriorate, they will have to get him some help. Vauhwyt still thinks they should try to capture Edgar, and in the worst case scenario, she knows some people who might be able to take care of him (not kill him!) discreetly.
Anyway, in the sewer, when she smells the sweet smell, Vauhwyt asks the group to pause. "Give me 20 seconds, friends!" Then she casts in quick succession, Blood Armor on Mookie, Blood Armor on herself, and Enlarge on Mookie.
"Thanks Rose," she says, when Rose makes the light.
With her spear on her back, a good net in one hand, and the othe fist ready to punch, Vauhwyt walks close to Kernorn near the front.
"Be ready, Mookie," the liontaur says.
"Sure, Boss!"
Zayne d20+5=21 d20+5=21 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 5:22:49 PM
Frustrated that his plan didn't work out the way he thought it would he spends the rest of the night trying his best to sit patiently and wait for the rest of the group to take action.
As the party finally heads out Zayne ranges out ahead of the group,without a word to anyone.
Doing his best not to be caught unawares he takes in his surroundings carefully. (Spot 21 Listen 21)
Vorelle d20+6=13 d20+6=9 Wednesday April 7th, 2004 6:06:33 PM
Vorelle drifts along at the rear of the group, trying to stay alert for danger.
Spot 13 Listen 9
When they start to smell the strange odor, she downs the antitoxin.
Olyn Wednesday April 7th, 2004 9:27:20 PM
right before Kernorn starts leading us off in the right direction, and while Vauhwyt spells herself up, I'll cast Light on a torch, handing it to Zayne, then will cast another Light on another torch and carry it near the back. *notice I said near the back, not AT the back*
DM Jan Thursday April 8th, 2004 12:59:38 AM
About 50 yards down into the gloom, the light from Rose's and Olyn's torches picks up something big ahead in the tunnel, and as light plays along the surfaces of his head, the group get a sudden introduction to Edgar!
He's horrible to look at - his massive head almost blocks the tunnel, and the solid body behind it completely blocks any passage beyond. Huge compound eyes twinkle in the lamplight, set into a hairy face that almost splits in two as a nasty looking sharp set of mandibles rear up and confront the party. They flank a long proboscis, needle sharp at the point and dripping some kind of mucus. The sweet smell is quite heady now, like strong honey. The front feet contain barbs like daggers. He's about 20 feet away.
And if the sight isn't enough -
Give.. him.. to... ME!!
It pierces the mind like a white-hot iron. He wants Kernorn who - is standing staring ahead, and by the Gods you're going to give him to him. ((Will Save DC 15 or do what he says.))
And if THAT isn't enough -
Zayne's sharp ears pick up something behind the party. Someone coming down the ladder?
Olyn * ac21(beast), hp19, Bless* d20+6=17 d6=4 d6=6 Thursday April 8th, 2004 8:27:09 AM
*will save of 17*
looking at the creature in front of us, then looking at the puny nettings. um, folks, I dont think we are going to get that thing in these nettings.
pulling out a set of dice, rolling them in my hands, and tossing them onto the ground at the groups feet. *4 and 6*
Hail Wardd, father of greatness, grant us this day from you a Bless.
*casts Bless on the group, +1 to attack, +1 save VS fear*
***Jan, ill stay on til this module is over with, then ill take my leave***
Dietrich; AC 17; HP 13/13; blessed d20+2=12 Thursday April 8th, 2004 9:48:03 AM
Although Dietrich was expecting an ugly monster, Edgars appearence shocks him and he must control himself not to feel sick. He is used to fight men and neve saw something as annoying as this enormous fly. Then he suddenly listens this voice in his head and strangely agrees with the command (save 12). Dietrich tinks: 'Yes, let´s give this crazy bug-man to his creation.'and pushes Kernon forward towards the beast.
Vauhwyt (AC 19 (maybe 21 if Mookie has time to Aid Other), HP 16 of 19, Dex 13 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP 9 of 9) d20+3=19 d20+4=21 d20+5=24 d20+4=19 d20+4=21 d20+4=9 d4+4=8 d6=1 d4+4=8 d6=2 Thursday April 8th, 2004 10:41:21 AM
[OOC: Holy smokes! Both Vauhwyt and Mookie resist the compulsion! I guess I have to save the Bugs-Bunnian riff I had planned for Mookie in wishing Kernorn farewell!]
"Hah!" Vauhwyt answers the big bug. "Think again!"
"Yeah," adds Mookie, "your Jedi mind tricks don't work on us!"
"GO!" shouts Vauhwyt.
If there is room for Mookie to fly around the bug, he will do so (double move 80 feet). If he can avoid attacks of opportunity, great! If not, his tumble check of 24 avoids them anyway! Mookie ends up on the other side ofthe bug rom Vauhwyt, if he can. If he can do it in 40 feet or less, then he uses his remaining action to Aid Other, successfully boosting Vauhwyt's AC by two.
If there is not enough room to fly behind and flank the bug, then Mookie just flies within range and distracts it (that same Aid Another roll).
Vauhwyt, meanwhile, charges the bug, leaping on it with both paws! She hits AC21 and AC9, or AC23 and AC11 if Mookie is flanking.
The paw that hits AC21 or 23 does 8 or 9 if Mookie is flanking. The other paw, if Mookie is flanking, hits AC11 for 10 points more (almost certainly a miss).
Vorelle [AC 15; HP 17/17; Bless; antitoxin] d20+1=21 d20+6=10 Thursday April 8th, 2004 12:08:07 PM
Vorelle scarecly heeds Edgar's command (natural 20 to Will save!), and instead fires a shot at the unnatural beast. It's a terrible shot (hit AC 10 before the penalty for shooting into melee), and Vorelle begins shoving her way forward to try to close with the creature.
Theodore and Macaw (HP 8 AC 17 with dodge against Edgar) d20+5=21 Thursday April 8th, 2004 12:22:02 PM
Theodore experiences a momentary twinge of fear at the size of Edgar. Kernorn most definitely underestimated, or flat out lied about, his pet. He resists Edgar's attempt to influence his mind, though he was considering giving Kernorn to the bug as a meal regardless of his suggestion.
Seeing Vauhwyt leap bravely into the face of Edgar, Theodore pushes down his insecurities and clenches his fists. Macaw doesn't feel the same way and flaps noisily back down the sewer. Theodore motions with his hands and a slight blue nimbus appears around him.
"Vauhwyt, get out of the way!" he shouts. "Let me try my spell." The young mage readies himself to sling some magic.
(21 to resist Edgar. Casted Mage Armor on myself, good for two hours.)
DM Jan d20+5=11 Friday April 9th, 2004 11:43:53 AM
Confronted by the true horror of Edgar, Olyn casts BLESS on the party. This beast is HUGE! It manages to get past Dietrich's mental defences and the tall warrior gives Kernorn a hefty shove toward the giant insect.
About the same time, Vauhwyt leaps into the fray. Unfortunately Mookie is unable to get around the great bulk of the monster, but the liontaur gets a good thwack in with one paw.
Vorelle lets off an arrow that glances off the wall of the tunnel, then moves in to get closer.
Theo also moves in, to try and get the creature in his spell range.
Macaw flutters back along the tunnel, past Zayne and Rose. There's more noise back there now. Someone is definitely coming down the sewerfall ladders.
Edgar's proboscis rears up and he spits out mucus toward Vauhwyt. (Rats) It misses, splattering on the floor.
Kernorn turns and tries to get between himself and any attackers of Edgar. "Noooo! NOOO!!" he screams. "NOOOOOOOO!"
Vauhwyt (AC 19, HP 16 of 19, Dex 13 of 15) and Mookie (AC17, HP 9 of 9) Friday April 9th, 2004 11:57:31 AM
"Get out, Mookie!" Vauhwyt shouts. The familiar flaps out of the fight.
Then Vauhwyt stands in place, glaring at Edgar. "You'll have to do better than that, my friend!" she tells the bug.
And she does not attack. Instead, the liontaur carefully listens for Theo's magic, and when the mage begins to cast, she tenses, ready to dodge back and out of the path of the magic. Until then, she stands blocking the way so Edgar cannot attack anyone else, and no one can get to Edgar.
"Do it now, Theo!" she shouts.
[OOC: Readying a move action to get out of the way when Theo casts his spell. Not allowing Kernorn to pass through her space.]
Zayne (Ac 17 HP19/19, bless) d20+2=7 Friday April 9th, 2004 1:03:31 PM
Straining to hear the sounds behind the group and distracted by whats been going on,he lets his concentration slip and Edgar's suggestion sounds like a great idea to Zayne. (Will 7)
The young ranger begins to move towards Kernorn,to obey Edgar's command.
(OOC And I had been on a streak of rolling high when I needed to,oh well I knew it wouldn't last forever.)
rose d20+5=20 d20+3=21 d4+2=4 Friday April 9th, 2004 5:08:42 PM
Seeing that the others are occupying all the room by the big huge frightening bug. Rose turns and runs back to see what is comming up behind them, ignoring the bug as she does so and preparing to attack if necessary.
move and hold attack
will: 20 attack: 21 damage: 4
Vorelle d20+6=21 Friday April 9th, 2004 5:52:57 PM
Now that she hears the sounds behind them (yes?), Vorelle gives up on her efforts to get closer to Edgar. She moves once again to the back of the party, nocks an arrow, and peers into the gloom, trying to see what's back there.
Spot 21
Theodore and Macaw (HP 8 AC 17 with dodge against Edgar) Friday April 9th, 2004 7:52:57 PM
Theodore steps to within ten feet of the huge monster, gritting his teeth as he battles his fear. He speaks the words of power, and the familiar burst of color shoots from his fingers towards Edgar. "Get him, now!"
(Theo casts Color Spray against Edgar; Will save vs DC 14 or unconcious, blinded, and stunned for 2d4 rounds, then blinded and stunned for 1d4 rounds, then stunned for 1 round if 2HD or less; blinded and stunned for 1d4 rounds, then stunned for 1 round if 3-4 HD; stunned for 1 round if 5 or more HD.)
Dietrich AC 17; HP 13/13, blessed Saturday April 10th, 2004 6:35:35 PM
Dietrich is still confused about what happened in his head, but danger quickly calls him back to reality. The soldier swears a lot about their bad position, catched between the monster and unknown enemies and, as the way to Edgar is blocked, he turns to the noise in their back and readys his bow, while running to help Vorelle and trying to stay out of the lights.
DM Jan Monday April 12th, 2004 12:13:55 AM
Things happen awfully fast.
Rose, Vorelle and Dietrich dash back to the Sewerfall, only to find that its got rather busy. Rose may choose to hold her attack, for right now there are three men at the bottom of the sewerfall brandishing swords, two more halfway up with bows drawn. They look ready to use them. Vorelle will note blue ribbons attached to the shoulders of the men.
Another man is climbing down, tall - with a mustache. "Well, well," Th'Ayvanen says dryly. "Are we going to fight this out, or do we talk?" His eyes sweep dismissively past the females and land straight on Dietrich. The familiars find a perch.
"Sorry! Thought it best!" comes a voice, hurled down from above. The face it belongs to is that of one of the Knife Tower guards.
A short distance away down the dark passage, there's a sudden BOOMF!!! as Theodore's color spray spell goes off. Vauhwyt, Zayne and Olyn are probably quite glad they're not in the firing line of THAT! The torchlight captures the scene before them. Kernorn is on the floor holding his eyes. Edgar had already started to move, shifting two of his legs over his creator's body (protection?), but he's swaying, obviously stunned, but not for long. The pair of them have taken on a ridiculous hotch potch of hues.
Theodore and Macaw d20=20 Monday April 12th, 2004 9:39:39 AM
Theodore takes advantage of Edgar's confusion to run in and grab Kernorn by the ankles. He then tries to drag the unconcious lunatic back to relative safety.
(Push and drag is 575 lbs, but I made a strength check just in case. 20. Hmmm...can I redo my post and say that I hit Edgar with my Quarterstaff?? :P)
Dietrich d20-1=13 Monday April 12th, 2004 11:40:12 AM
Dietrich is surprised and happy to see Th´Ayvanen and the Prince´s men, for he was expecting more sevants of MArteus. He imediately puts the bow away and the arrow back in the quiver, showing his open hands to the newcomers.
The fighter would have prefered to let Rose talk, but as Th´Ayvanen obviously respects Dietrich´s steel more, he will talk with him.
"Greetings Master Th´Ayvanen! We´re glad to see you and your men. We have just found the monster responsible for the murders. Please help us catching it!", he says, looking eager to go back towards Edgar. (untrained diplomacy 13)
Zayne d20+3=19 d20+1=20 Monday April 12th, 2004 3:49:24 PM
Seeing Theo attemtpting to pull Kernorn away from Edgar,Zayne grabs Theo from behind and tries to take the mage down and keep him there.
(Hit AC 19 Gapple 20) As he grabs hold of Theo,"What are you doing,don't you see that's not what he wants." (OOC go figure I would roll well again now)
Vorelle Monday April 12th, 2004 7:47:20 PM
Seeing who it is, Vorelle lets out a little sigh of relief and lowers her arrow. She turns and begins making her way back toward Edgar, content to let Dietrich do the talking.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday April 13th, 2004 12:04:03 AM
The liontaur and her enlarged familiar use this opportunity to take the powerful net they got from the mercenaries and try to wrap it around Edgar so as to entangle the big bug. They spend the whole round trying to secure it to the creature.
rose Tuesday April 13th, 2004 12:28:20 AM
rose moves back to where she can see the bug she casts a spell (unseen servant) and has the servant take rose's rope that's hanging on Vauhwyts back and begin to tie up the bug.
DM Jan Tuesday April 13th, 2004 12:44:17 AM
Surprised at his own strength, Theo drags the stunned and blinded Kernorn from under the giant insect's feet, only to be leapt upon by Zayne, who still has Edgar's demand ringing in his head.
In the meantime, Vauhwyt and Mookie take a chance and hurl the net at the huge creature while its still bleary-eyed. It catches in various places over Edgar's head and legs.
In the sewerfall, Th'Ayvanen nods tightly at Dietrich, and he and his men follow the warrior, as he in turn follows Vorelle and Rose back toward the monster.
Rose's rope starts to snake around the creature.
"Good grief!" hisses Th'Ayvanen tightly and turns to his men. "Kill it!" Bows are drawn, arrows are nocked.
The giant bug shifts its horrible head toward Zayne and Theodore. This time it isnt a command - its a plea, that everyone in the tunnel hears.
No hurt! No hurt! No hurt...
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=17 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 10:36:50 AM
[OOC: Not bothering to make a will save to resist Edgar's command, since V has no intention of hurting Edgar anyway.]
Vauhwyt, already standing between Edgar and the archers, quickly casts Enlarge Person on herself. Suddenly 13 feet tall and 20 feet long, (plus blood red all over from her Blood Armor spell) she physically blocks the archers from firing at Edgar.
Mookie sees Vauhwyt's plan to act as a living shield and shouts, "Boss! Are you nuts! Get out of there!" The eagle-sized raven ducks behind Vauhwyt, using her as cover.
Vauhwyt smiles and says to Mookie, "Don't sweat it, pal."
To the prince's men, she says, "Please, there is no need to be hasty, good soldiers. This creature is now netted and captured. No good would come of killing it. Let's ask questions first and shoot laterr, if we have to. In the meantime, we can question it and find out more about this situation."
To the bug, she says, "Edgar, tell them you will cooperate, and save your life."
[OOC: Untrained Diplomacy check is 17.]
Dietrich d20+2=7 Tuesday April 13th, 2004 11:45:47 AM
As Dietrich arrives with Th´Ayvannen and the soldiers, he is satisfied to see the monster bound and also that the Prince´s men would kill it. He never had any sympathy for the dangerous and treacherous beast, and Th´Ayvannen decision would do what he wanted, without causing any embarressement for Dietrich with his more pityful friends.
But suddenly there is again this strange thought in his head and he changes his mind. The nasty giant-fly appears now as a defenceless, poor animal and Dietrich doesn´t want to harm it. He sees Vauhwyt risking her life to save the monster and calls loudly in his deep, gutural voice: "Wait, don´t shoot! The monster might be valuable for the Prince!" He also keeps ready to draw his sword, if need be.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday April 13th, 2004 12:30:26 PM
Theodore is surprised by Zayne's attack. Seeing that he can't do anymore than he already has, he goes limp and trusts that Zayne isn't so far gone that he would hurt a friend without provocation.
As he lies entangled with the stronger man, he hears the sudden commotion from Th'Ayvanen and his men. Out of the corner of his eye, he watches as Vauhwyt grows to immense proportions and places herself in front of Edgar. He swallows tightly and waits to see what happens next.
Zayne Tuesday April 13th, 2004 5:30:06 PM
After taking Theo down,(ooc Sorry about that)and feeling him go limp he decides that Th'Ayvannen and his men pose a more serious threat to Edgar,so he lets go of his grip and places himself between the men and Edgar.
The young ranger shouts,"Don't shoot him!
Vorelle Tuesday April 13th, 2004 8:52:57 PM
Unable to wax eloquent in defense of Kenorn's sad creation, Vorelle lets out a little squeak of distress and raises a hand as if to forestall the volley from Th'Ayvanen's men.
rose Tuesday April 13th, 2004 10:10:49 PM
rose waits as the others decide what to do with edgar. although she doesnt want edgar to be killed, she doesnt think they should let either edgar or kernorn go free.
DM Jan Tuesday April 13th, 2004 11:33:00 PM
There's an awkward moment as Th'Avanen's men try and get a bead on the captured beast, while the group urge them not to fire.
A half disoriented Kernorn attempts to crawl back toward his giant bug thing companion. "Be still," he's whispering, "be still..." No more thoughts come from Edgar. Instead it makes a small click click clicking sound as Kernorn gets a little closer.
Th'Ayvanen signals for his men to hold. "Is it safe? Can we carry it?" he barks, still on the alert. "Corell will need to adjudicate over this. I've heard talk of murder and Marteaus so far, and frankly I've no patience for either."
He raises an eyebrow at Dietrich, as though something he said might have caught his interest, but says nothing about it.
"We move fast, and take it to one of the Palace's lower halls," he continues, "before the rest of Dirt City wakes up. There'll be enough panic as it is with those Knives blabbing to all and sundry."
Dietrich Wednesday April 14th, 2004 9:17:36 AM
Dietrich is relieved with the outcome of the situation and that nobody perceived his nervous sweating.
The fighter realizes Th´Ayvannen´s look and knows all too well what motivated the powerful man. He slightly nods his head to the Prince´s second in comand, than starts helping to carry Edgar and Kernon away.
Theodore and Macaw d20=14 Wednesday April 14th, 2004 9:26:29 AM
Theodore makes a grab for Kernorn as he tries to crawl back to Edgar. If he succeeds, he just hangs on and waits for someone else to take the loony into custody.
Macaw, deciding things have calmed down a bit, perches on one of the ladder rungs behind Th'Ayvanen and his men. He watches in interest.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday April 14th, 2004 9:50:13 AM
"Well, events have outpaced us this morning," says the liontaur. "And now, Kernorn, your fate and freedom are in the hands of the Prince." She sounds regretful, but does not say anything more in front of the Prince's men.
Mookie, however, is not as reserved. "That, Bug Boy, means 'Good Luck,' and you'll need it!"
"Hush, Mookie," says Vauhwyt. She uses her temporary large size to help get Edgar tied up, and to move him to the place that Th´Ayvannen wishes.
Vorelle Wednesday April 14th, 2004 6:28:39 PM
Vorelle slings her bow on her back and lends a hand with either Kenorn or Edgar, wherever she is needed.
Zayne Wednesday April 14th, 2004 7:29:46 PM
Still not trusting of anyone associated to the Prince,he hangs back and let's them handle the situation,while he sorts out what made him want to help Edgar so badly in his own head.
DM Jan Thursday April 15th, 2004 1:08:35 AM
Getting Edgar up and out of the sewerfall proves to be a difficult task. It takes a lot of shoving, pushing, and howling from Kernorn to be careful. Vauhwyt and Dietrich need all the brawn they can muster in their efforts to help out. Olyn has probably heard worse language at the docks, but not much worse.
Vorelle and Theo find themselves with the task of seeing to the entomologist, and although he's obviously upset, he seems more together than he was before being re-united with his enormous, ugly charge. What bond lies between them is a mystery - but one seems to have a stabilizing affect on the other. Kernorn hands Rose the box with the wasp in it for safekeeping.
The giant beast's telepathy is obviously very strong too, and right now he seems confused. As Zayne tries to figure out things, there's a background line of thought -
Why? Why.... why...?
Luckily - for some - the Prince's Castle isn't far, and as the group move into one of the upper tunnels, part of the tunnel wall - covered in frescos of desert scenes at this particular point - slides away with a mechanical clink clink clink.
Halfling ingenuity has seen fit to construct some kind of lift, that moves slowly upward on clanking chains - it takes the party, Corell's men, and the captives up to ground level.
The 'lift' opens out into a large, stone-walled room - perhaps some kind of good receiving area for the castle, for there are packages and barrels stacked up here and there. Even on the inside of this room, everyone can smell the fresh sea air that tells them they are on the surface. Tracts of blown in dust trail across the floor.
Opposite the lift doors, at the other side of the great room, are two double doors, currently shut. To the left, is a wide set of stone steps leading into the interior of the castle. Stood at the top - is Suran Corell. His blond hair is mussed, and half his shirt is hanging out of his breeches. He looks like a man who's got out of bed in a big hurry. Th'Ayvanen marches straight over there, snaps to attention for a moment, bows his head, then talks rapidly to the Prince about what he's found out. From what the group can hear - its everything they'd told him, plus what they told the Knives guards, who Th'Ayvanen has obviously questioned.
Corell walks down the steps, and raises an eyebrow as he spots Edgar, all bundled up. "By the Seeker's white eyes, what have we got here?" he wonders aloud. His own eyes take on an icy glint as he turns his attention to the party, and he asks -
"So - what kind of a threat do we have here? Is it merely this 'thing' and -" pointing at Kernorn and rolling his eyes "- him?? Or does it run deeper? Th'Ayaven's words suggest a threat with quite a few branches."
Dietrich d20+2=19 Thursday April 15th, 2004 9:23:16 AM
Dietrich is one of the more enthusiastic promoters of bad language as he helps to move the disgusting monster.
His fear of Edgar has only increased with the beast´s use of telepathy, the so called "singing" Kernon had mentioned before, and Dietrich just want to get rid of it, see what the loot might be worth and get some revelrie in Dirt City above.
The fighter admires the halvling mechanical work at the Prince´s tower and is glad to smell some fresh sea air. He hasn´t got accostumed yet to live underground and, despite the risks and the dust, prefers to have real, open places around him. Dietrich also analyses the disposition of the tower under military aspects (military knowledge 19), for he dreams to build his own castle in future and always trys to learn about such constructions.
When Corell arives, the soldier feels his strong presence and respectfully stays back, letting others respond to the inquire, though he feels secure, for he has nothing to hide. In truth, Dietrich appreciates the opportunity of improve their relations to the Prince and even hopes for somekind of reward. After all, they have discovered the murderer, avoided his use by Marteus servants and neutralized it.
Vauhwyt (and Mookie) d20+3=13 Thursday April 15th, 2004 11:30:22 AM
[Both Vauhwyt and Mookie are back to normal size, since the spell only lasts a minute. But they are still both blood red head to toe due to the armor spell.]
As soon as she sees the Prince, Vauhwyt grabs Mookie and stuffs him in her sidebag. "Hush!" she whispers fiercely.
When the Prince poses his question, Vauhwyt steps forward.
"Lord, there are two dangerous parties at work. The first consists of Edgarr" (she points at the bug) "and Kernorn" (she points to the bugologist). "Edgar got lost, and when the two are seperated, they become mentally unbalanced. Hungry and crazed, Edgar killed several innocent people. We got into this trying to help the Knives solve the mystery of these deaths. I believe that when reunited with Kernorn and well fed, Edgar is very controllable, and could even be an agent for good. But watch out for his mental powers."
The liontaur takes a deep breath. "The second, more dangerous threat, is this. The Knives were infiltrated by at least one agent of Marteaus. We killed that agent, a half-elf named Mattison, who was trying to capture Edgar to use for his own purposes. We caught a couple of Mattison's hired mercenaries and turned them over to the Knives -- maybe they can tell morre." Vauhwyt's accent reveals her nervousness, as does her twitchy tail.
"This is the second time in the past several weeks that we have discovered an agent of Marteus at work in Dirt City -- the first was an assassin trying to kill the Alpha Wolf's daughterr. Both agents that we killed bore the same markings in an ancient script."
[Untrained Diplomacy check = 13]
Theodore and Macaw Thursday April 15th, 2004 12:18:39 PM
Macaw has reclaimed his perch on Theodore's shoulder as the party stands before the Prince. The young man's clothes are dirty from the scuffle in the sewers and his hair is more mussed than usual.
He is keenly interested in the fate of Kernorn and Edgar, and watches in silent attention.
Vorelle Thursday April 15th, 2004 5:37:43 PM
Even more tongue-tied and overwhelmed than usual, Vorelle stays to the back of the group and keeps her lowly Grubber eyes averted from the prince.
rose Thursday April 15th, 2004 6:00:28 PM
rose listens to the others and stays hidden behind vauhwyt....isn't it nice to have such a tall friend?
DM Jan Friday April 16th, 2004 1:05:13 AM
"Oh, they'll tell us more all right," snarls the Prince as Vauhwyt mentions the captured mercenaries. "I don't know what all that's about but I mean to find out more."
As soon as the liontaur finishes her report, Kernorn speaks up. "Please! Let us go! I'll take him away - we'll promise no harm. Have mercy. Just let us go. Please, I beg you!"
Th'Avanen smirks as Corell steps closer to the entomologist and the monster. "Will this thing breed?" asks the Prince. "No Sir." "What about the dead?" "We're sorry. We have funds.... we can pay."
Corell raises an eyebrow then turns and walks back to the group. He does a double take as he passes Theo and MaCaw. "You look like I feel," he mutters, followed by -
"Very well, citizens it appears we have a slight dilemma here. There's no room in our jails right now. The last few days have seen fit to admit quite a few members of the Wolves, and 'some' of them won't be getting out for a while." He sighs. "So - I see only two choices. I kill them both, or I declare them banished."
"He did mention mon -" starts Th'Ayvanen, interrupted by a brusque wave. "Does he look like he has two coppers to rub together?" snorts Corell. Th'Ayvanen shrugs.
"So!" Continues the Prince. "Never let it be said that I do not heed the advice of my fellow citizens - and you people ARE fellow citizens are you not? So, whats it going to be? Death or banishment? "Your choice!" His last words are delivered to the group with a smile.
Kernorn starts to tremble like a leaf.
At this particular moment, Dietrich can see nothing beyond these four walls to suggest this is nothing more than a fortified warehouse, but there's time, yet.
Dietrich Friday April 16th, 2004 10:03:09 AM
Dietrich stays behind and trys to get as much information as he can from what he sees. Particularly the comments about the prisons and the wolves are quite interesting.
The soldier isn´t very pleased with the alternatives offered, for banishment will mean to have the monster free abroad, and killing them is too much. Also, it is a trick of Corell to push responsibility of the punishment on the group, what Dietrich doesn´t like either.
As Dietrich is no "citizen" of Dirt City, but a Knight of the WIndbourne Hills, he´ll prefer to abstain, if this is possible. If not, he votes for banishment. But before leaving the two culprits go, he asks:
"What about the eggs, Kernon? Can you give some compensation to the victims? Will there be other Edgars coming out of these eggs?"
Theodore and Macaw Friday April 16th, 2004 10:19:27 AM
"I think he should be banished, your honor," says Theodore.
"Eat!" screams Macaw. Theodore quickly snaps the bird's beak shut with his forefinger and thumb.
"Banishment, your prestigousness," reiterates Theodore.
Vauhwyt Friday April 16th, 2004 2:12:08 PM
The liontaur looks directly at the bug expert. "Kernorn, you said you would swear to never let Edgar hurt innocent people again. You have promised it again to the Prince. Therefore I ask him to grant you exile."
"My lord," Vauhwyt adds, turning to the Prince, "May I ask a boon? Let my friends and I escort Kernorn and Edgar from the city and into exile. We will do our best to make sure that the servants of Marteaus do not waylay him, and we will guide him to a secret place in which to spend his exile."
Zayne d20+1=21 Saturday April 17th, 2004 12:40:33 PM
Listening carefully to the Princes words for any hint of a lie.(Sense Motive 21 natural 20)
Zayne makes no effort to hide his dislike for the Prince or his men.
Then boldly and probably not well thought out,"I don't think I like you and I don't know if I ever will. How sure can we be that you or none of or men are going to hunt him down and kill him later?"
Vorelle Saturday April 17th, 2004 2:26:42 PM
Still and quiet as a mouse, Vorelle keeps her head down and tries to remain unnoticed.
rose Sunday April 18th, 2004 6:13:55 PM Exile Rose says from behind Vauhwyt
DM Jan Monday April 19th, 2004 1:05:23 AM
The Prince listens to the groups decision, and barks out a harsh laugh as Zayne voices his suspicions. "You'll have to trust me lad, won't you. Not that you're in a position to do anything else." Zayne's study of the man's face reveals nothing to suggest he wears the mask of untruth or ulterior motive. Not at the moment, at any rate. Th'Ayvanen says nothing but darts an angry glance toward the rash young ranger.
"So!" announces Corell, not missing a beat. "Exile it is to be, then. And you wish to escort this -" He's interrupted by Kernorn.
"Please, there's no need. I do not wish to be any more trouble, and - no offence, but the less people know where my Edgar is the better. If you will help me untie him and open those doors, we can be off, and as this gentleman here says, " he nods toward Dietrich, "we do have the means to lessen the suffering of those who have lost their loved ones."
"If you're seen within the City limits, you're dead," growls Corell. "What do you intend to do - fly out of here? I see no wings." He nods to his guards, and some of them gingerly approach the giant insect and detangle him from the net.
The doors are opened, and a sharp breeze blows in. There's an awkward moment as Kernorn whispers something to Edgar the others cannot hear. But then there's a feeling of what can only be joy, tickling the edges of everyone's mind. It verges on euphoria, like the effect of a drug, or being halfway through a bottle of exceedingly good wine.
Freed of the nets, the beast shakes itself, then starts to shiver. The rear of its abdomen starts to swell, raising some apprehension from some of the guards. Suddenly - a large round object drops with a heavy thud, from Edgars rear end! The object rolls slowly for about 5ft then comes to a stop. The floorboards creak and groan, complaining of the weight of the thing. It's an 18" diameter gold ball. Perfectly round, perfectly shiny. Perfect. "Look at that!" yells someone.
That isn't the only surprise. There's a cracking sound - like breaking wood, and part of Edgar's carapace falls to the ground. Wings unfurl - multicoloured, shimmering - beautiful on a thing so ugly. Then before anyone can do anything, or say anything - Kernorn hops on Edgar's back - the wings emit a high pitch whine - and they're off - out of the building and away, up into the air.
Corell and his men stare, open-mouthed.
rose Monday April 19th, 2004 1:36:36 AM
rose peeks around vauhwyts legs and sees what happens gold poop she says in amazement as they take off.
Theodore and Macaw Monday April 19th, 2004 10:38:03 AM
Theodore scratches his head at the bizarre events taking place. He looks at the golden egg with more than a bit of skepticism. "I kind of regret not having a chance to examine that thing," he says to no one in particular.
After that, he remains quiet and waits to see what comes next.
Dietrich Monday April 19th, 2004 11:45:21 AM
At Zayne´s undiplomatic comments, Dietrich shakes his head, but says nothing, only hoping it won´t have negative consequencies for the group.
Again, he is surprised with Kernon´s sudden change, from a lunatic almost unable to speak to a strong and corteous man. But that´s just the beginning of his astonishment, as the golden egg is produced and Edgar flys away. Dietrich skeptically thinks: "It was good for them to fly fast, for the Prince would never had let them go after that gold egg! Let us see what will be done with this gold, and let´s hope we won´t hear of Edgar and Kernon anymore."
The fighter waits to see what´ll happen next.
Zayne Monday April 19th, 2004 12:11:57 PM
Returning Th'Ayvanen's look,Zayne is interrupted by the golden egg and Edgar's transformation.
As Kernorn and Edgar fly to freedom,"Fly away and be free. I hope you find the happiness you have been searching for."
Then turnig around to face the prince again,"If you don't have anymore questions,I'd like to go get myself something to eat. I haven't had time to eat much since yesterday."
Vauhwyt (Mookie still stuffed in sidebag) d20+3=4 Monday April 19th, 2004 3:03:54 PM
Vauhwyt's jaw drops when Zayne tells the Prince he does not like him. (rolled a natural one on a Will save). She can't believe he would be so rude! Oh, wait. It's Zayne. Maybe she's not so surprised!
She is definitely amazed when Edgar unfurls wings and the two of them fly off. As they head into the sky, Vauhwyt cups her hands to her mouth and shouts, "Good-by Edgarr! Good-by Kernorn! Don't forget your promise! Fare well!"
After a moment the liontaur walks over to the golden egg, picks it up, and carries it to the Prince. "I hope some of this can be used as wergeld for the families of those Edgar killed," she says, holding it out.
Vorelle Monday April 19th, 2004 9:22:03 PM
Vorelle stares at the golden ball as it plonks to the floor, then gasps as Edgar takes flight. She's so surprised she forgets to keep her face downcast and stares after Kernorn and Edgar with wide gray eyes.
DM Jan Tuesday April 20th, 2004 12:53:22 AM
Out of the door fly the odd couple - man and insect. Out of the door, up into the air, and are last seen heading east.
"Well, you don't see things like that every day," mutters Corell, running a hand through already dishevelled hair, watching Vauhwyt struggle with a gold ball that must weigh at least 600lbs. "Th'Ayvanen - sort this out will you. Give them something for their trouble. Providing that thing and its owner don't come back, we appear to have a satisfactory conclusion. And something for the families, too," he adds, nodding at the liontaur.
He addresses the group. "I don't pretend to know what you went through to apprehend this creature, but it was obvious something needed to be done. As for the Marteaus cult... anything you learn, we'll pay for. I don't like it, not at all... "Good day."
The man strides off, tucking his shirt in while taking the steps two at a time.
Th'Ayvanen asks the group their address. "We'll melt this down. Those boys at the Knife Tower seem to know who died, so I'll talk to them. Now if you'll excuse me ladies and gentlemen - I have a pressing engagement with those captured mercenaries." With an evil grin, he gestures toward the open double doors. "Better stuff some food in that boy's mouth then he can't get himself in any more trouble."
It seems the party are being dismissed. It's time to go home.
Dietrich Tuesday April 20th, 2004 11:06:19 AM
After the astonishment with the end of the case, Dietrich is pretty satisfied with the results. He bows to Corell and Th´Ayvannen (though he didn´t like his last comment) and leaves the Tower with his friends, eager to share the loot and feast their successful adventure in a fine restaurant, with wine, meat, music and dancing girls...
"Well done friends! I´m going to a bath-house now, to get that sewers smell of, shave my beard and relax a little. Let´s meet later and have some fun!" During the last sentence, he looks longer at Zayne, specially inviting his 'nervous' comrade for some relaxing revelries.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday April 20th, 2004 12:12:02 PM
Theodore bows to the prince as he takes his leave. After being dimissed by Th'Ayvanen, the fledgling wizard looses a deep sigh. It appears as though another adventure has been successfully completed. He smiles foolishly at the rest of his party. Over the past week, he has come to depend on them so much, that he can't help but feel a certain fondness for them, as if they were a family.
Always eager to learn more knowledge, Theodore returns back to the apartment and sits down to study through the contents of the confiscated spellbooks.
(Theo casts read magic and reads through the books to see what spells are contained within.)
Zayne Tuesday April 20th, 2004 2:27:48 PM
Scowling at the Prince and his men as he leaves ,he is in surprising good spirits considering the the recent events.
Looking around at the group,"So what's for breakfast? I know a place not too far from the apartment that has the best food. Come on lets go."
rose Tuesday April 20th, 2004 5:34:07 PM
Rose hurries home and washes. She then looks at whats available food wise on the shelves. "Who has the group money, we need to buy some food later. Why dont we decide as a group what we want bought at a meeting tonight to discuss the treasure and stuff."
She then goes to a restraunt for breakfast (french toast with fruit and whipped cream, and hot cocoa). And heads to the catacombs to sell her dagger.
jan, dont forget to figure out everyone's cost for eating out:)
Vorelle Tuesday April 20th, 2004 6:44:55 PM
Relieved to be dismissed, Vorelle gladly heads for a bath house before accompanying the others for a meal.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday April 20th, 2004 10:20:36 PM
Dealing with authority always makes Vauhwyt feel small and guilty -- so she feels relieved that they got off unpunished, even though they didn't do anything.
"Thank you very much!" she tells Th'Ayvanen.
On the way home, she lets Mookie out of the bag. He seems a little ruffled and looks Vauhwyt square in the face.
"What?" asks Vauhwyt.
"Just checking to see if your nose is still brown. You sure did polish that guy's apple."
"Shut up, Mookie!" she says a little harshly.
"The prince said to give us something for our troubles, but I bet that Th'Ayvanen guy will 'forget' about us."
"Probably you're right," Vauhwyt says, "but since we didn't do this for money, so what?"
"You're such a patsy, Boss."
She stuffs him back in the bag and goes to eat breakfast with her friends.
DM Jan Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:54:31 AM
After a night trawling through the sewers, there's a lot of smell, and a lot of dirt to scrub off. It feels wonderful afterwards, and the party enjoy a hearty breakfast so much more because of it. Hey, there are folk under all that grime!
As for revellry - there's plenty to be had if you know where to look, especially of the bawdy, raucous and high-spirited type - Backstab Quarter, and the Midnight Bazaar in particular.
Theo's study of the spellbooks reveals the following - The mercenary's book looks fairly typical - a scratty book of odd scrawly writing. Theodore thinks he might recognize the following if he studys long enough and is able to grasp the meanings successfully -
Some stuff he has already studied ((all the 0 level spells)), and Shocking Grasp Endure Elements Featherfall Tensers Floating Disk Hypnotism Magic Missile
Scorching Ray Darkness Bulls Strength
As for Mattisons little black book of doom - there's a tingle of magic in this one, and as soon as Theodore's eyes examine whats written on the page - the thing starts to fall apart. The writing strokes shift and change - turning into dark little worms that wriggle and fall off the parchment. One tries to bury itself in his skin! The pages start to rot.
A few days later - Th'Ayvanen arrives with some men bearing payment promised by the Prince. "800 GP each," he announces in his usual dour manner. "Try not to spend it all at once. And no - don't ask where the rest of it went. Just know that the families of the lost are being taken care of."
((OOC - Good play everyone! I'll email you with your XPs. We're about to move into that in-between section we talked about. Don't forget to work on those skill points in Craft or Profession.))
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+4=20 Wednesday April 21st, 2004 3:42:57 PM
Back at the apartment, Vauhwyt asks Theo about the captured spell books. She is sorry that one fell apart. As for the other one, she does some quick math. "Hmm ... 19 ... plus 6 ... plus twice 3 is another 6 ... 17 ... carry the 1 ... times 100 ... 2,700!"
She says, "Well, if my old days working in the Catacombs still serve, I would guess the spell book should sell for about 2,500 gold pieces, give or take." [rolled a 20 on V's untrained appraise check].
"I suggest that the wizards copy the spells that they want, and that then we sell all this stuff at the Catacombs and split the proceeds. Okay?"
rose Wednesday April 21st, 2004 4:26:24 PM "Sounds good to me, but it will take a while for us all to study and copy the spells. That money we received will be just enough for me to buy materials for copying these spells."
When the worm trys to get theo rose jumps up and tries to get it off him (with out getting it on her)
Dietrich Wednesday April 21st, 2004 4:35:18 PM
Dietrich enjoys the day with his friends and at night returns to the appartement to discuss what to do about the treasure and their furhter actions. He´d like to know how much the whole loot is worthy and than sell it all. If the party decides to keep a part in the group savings he approves the idea.
The fighter says Olyn good-bye and wishes him luck, hoping to see him again some day. He also remembers to let the healing-wand with the party and to pay off the clerics part.
After business is finished, he leaves for the revelries with the comrades that want to accompany him.
When Th´Ayvannen arrives with their reward, Dietrich can´t believe it and is amazed with the real treasure they received. He shows his gratitude and disposal to have further positive contacts with the Prince´s men in future.
The first thing he does with the money is to pay back Vorelle´s generous loan of 200 gp. Then he goes to a market and buys Vorelle a fine, blue, silk dress as a gift (ooc: entertainment dress)and incentive to loose her shyness a bit.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday April 21st, 2004 9:58:14 PM
Theodore is surprised when Mattison's book begins to fall apart. In disgust, he flips it away from him and watches as it disentigrates. "Evil magic," he scrunches his nose in distaste.
He then shares his findings with Rose so that she might share in the bounty of the remaining spellbook. "There are a few spells here that we could use, I believe. But I think it important to take at least one day off. I believe that I might go to dinner. Would anyone like to join me?"
Vorelle Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:00:45 PM
Vorelle seems pleased with the money from Th'Ayvanen, and accepts the payback of Dietrich's loan with a smile. She spends some time at her bunk, carefully counting gold pieces as if she has something specific in mind for them.
She turns an interesting shade of scarlet when Dietrich presents her with the dress, and stammers something incoherant which may be a "thank you". She sets it aside, but you can all catch her glancing over at it when she thinks nobody's looking.
rose Thursday April 22nd, 2004 12:29:04 AM "I'll go. How about everyone gets dressed up and we have a nice night out. That dress will look great on you Vorelle."
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