Big Float (DM MikeK) Monday May 3rd, 2004 9:17:29 AM
Xenia tests all her known potions and writes down their effects. Then she tests the unknown liquid. Its different from the rest. For just a second, the rogue thinks she see a shimmering field enclose her hand and forearm. It disappears quickly.
Syr and Florin discuss strategy, while Angus gets out his flute.
Angus' first tune is a toe-tapping little number that leaves everyone (who's still awake) with a smile on their faces.
Wynn and Angus then join forces on a powerfully wistful melody, transporting the thoughts of one and all to lost loves and bittersweet regrets. As the bard's final note fades into the lapping waters of the lake, Floating City breaks the horizon.
"Nother hour," Minos quietly informs the group.
Fifty minutes later, the Swift makes its final tack, and pulls toward the docks of the Fence Level. Minos guides his sturdy vessel toward the southwest tower, closest point to the group's apartments. There is quite a bit of commotion on this section of the dock. Streams of people are emerging from the gate into the city and flowing eastward along the dock. City guards are gesturing them along. What the crowd is retreating from becomes obvious as the Swift pulls into her moorings.
Black smoke pours from the gate.
Angus Monday May 3rd, 2004 12:56:57 PM
Angus takes note of the black smoke and says to the group "I have not been in the Floating City for that long, but I believe that the smoke is not normal or a good sign of things to come."
Angus turns to Minos. "Any other docks available? If not I will drink a shot of mash with you as you will have a long day upon mooring by a fire."
Angus thinks to himself; We are home but what trouble awaits us and those we protect.
Xenia (HP 20/23) d20+9=18 Monday May 3rd, 2004 4:18:28 PM
Minos announces an hour till they reach the dock thingie. Xenia gears up again, tying back her hair, tightening the straps on her leathers, and climbing to her jacket again.
"Hahahahahahahaha," Xenia laughs when Syr brings up the fan club. "Oben and Beeble still think we should do it. They wanna get some more girls together for a bigger membership. But, get this, they're afraid to go down there to the Ghost. Hahahahahahahaha." Then her face grows still as she seals up the front of her jacket. "I should go visit them sometime," she says.
"And maybe I could visit some other people too, Syr," she says. "See if we can't just figure out where these Anvil Hearts hang out."
And then they near the dock. And there's smoke pouring out of the gate. And the orphanage and the apartments are pretty far north of here, but still, Xenia's heart jumps into her throat.
"Oh no," is all she says as she jumps up on one of the seats and grabs hold of the mast. Shielding her eyes with a gloved hand, she scans the smoke billowing over the stream of fleeing people. She follows it back, hoping to get an idea of where it might be coming from.
[[ Spot 18 ]
Florin Jadenth Monday May 3rd, 2004 6:14:39 PM
Florin stretches abit and stays in his own thoughts even when Minos comments on how long till they make it to the Floating City.
When Florin notices the black smoke he frowns and comments to himself, "That smoke better not be....." Florin frowns more as he looks to Minos and comments, "I hate to ask Minos but can you speed the ship up by chance?" Angus suddenly wishes Angus or someone might have a ability to cause a gust of wind.
Tionel Monday May 3rd, 2004 6:16:49 PM
The quasi-sleeping elf can hardly react to the singing, but it rouses a smile and peaceful countenance at the very least while he reveries. Tionel is only half-asleep after all, and merely trying to find his refocus. In his heart, he wishes he could join in the song... He wakes up if anyone shouts particularly loud when they approach the docks and sits up, assessing the situation himself. "A fire? That could be bad..." he mumbles.
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Monday May 3rd, 2004 9:07:40 PM
Sunshine fell asleep alittle by Lang but when the group gets close to dock he jerks awake quickly at the smell of the black smoke coming from the dock area.
Lang d20+5=21 Monday May 3rd, 2004 9:10:53 PM
Lang joins with the rest of the group as they watch the people streaming eastward along the docks and the smoke pouring from the gate. He tries to see anything that may tell him what is happening (spot 21).
"Minos how much longer before we can dock? Do you think they will let you dock your boat? Or will they keep your boat out here away from the docks?"
"Florin, we may need an alternate method of getting to shore. Does anyone have any ideas? Once on shore where should we go to?"
Lang will give Sunshine a big hug and say more to himself than to the dog, "Don't worry boy everything will be alright."
Wynn Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:07:50 PM
Unfamiliar with the city, the young bard observes the noise and confusion of the streaming crowd until it dawns on him that this is not the normal hubbub of a busy metropolis. Wynn frowns when he spots the ominous cloud of black smoke.
This does not bode well, he thinks to himself.
Syr Tuesday May 4th, 2004 6:18:08 AM
The elf looks at the smoke with a worried look on his face. "Dock or not, I'll swim ashore if I need to!" He prepares to go over the side and race to the orphanage.
What's going on? (DM MikeK) Tuesday May 4th, 2004 10:07:33 AM
Before putting away the unknown potion, Xenia notes that it is an opaque reddish liquid with the odor and taste of raspberry.
Silently, Minos guides the Swift into her moorings. He works quickly to tie it up, subdued by the obvious concern of his passengers. Very soon, the group disembarks from the Swift. "Luck, Sirrahs" Minos calls.
Xenia tries to follow the smoke trail. However, the Fence Level is enclosed. The Merchant Level sits on top of it. So the rogue can't see anything but the archway leading to the street.
At the docks, a endless crowd of people emerge from the arch, proceed in fairly orderly fashion eastward. Some re-enter the Fence Level at the eastward gates, while others move up a level. Most are concerned citizens who's shopping has been interrupted. Some appear to be merchants, more annoyed about the sudden loss of business than anything else. Calls of "what's happening?" and "Where's the fire?" can be heard from the crowd.
Meanwhile, a line of City Guards stand at intervals along the docks, trying to keep the crowd moving. "Move along!" "There are folks behind you!" "Keep going" The guards appear bored more than anything else.
The smoke flows out of the top of the arch. At this point, its high enough above the head of the emerging crowd that it doesn't effect anybody too much.
Angus Tuesday May 4th, 2004 12:28:16 PM
Angus is happy to be back in the city, but does not like the current circumstances at all.
Angus looks to Syr "Syr you are the fastest of us all, do you want to see what is happening at the orphanage? I can make you invisible for the trip, if you think it will help. If I do so I will be basically defenseless."
Angus thinks to himself. I hope Gordo and the orphans are alright. If not the Anvil Heart Gang will be done for. Angus's eyes flash with determination as he waits for Syr's decision on the invisiblity spell.
Lang Tuesday May 4th, 2004 1:18:23 PM
Lang hops off the boat and helps Sunshine get off the boat onto the docks. "Heel Sunshine", Lang will say to make sure Sunshine stays close.
He stands with the group on the docks watching the crowd of people moving eastward.
Lang will wait for Florin and the rest of the group to decide the next course of action.
Xenia (HP 20/23) d20+9=19 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 3:32:54 PM
"Protect your own ... " the red-headed rogue whispers to persons unknown. Then she leaps to the dock, as soon as the Swift comes along side.
Sprinting without heed, she heads for the gate looking for an opening in stream of people that will gain her entrance. As she runs, she tries to pick wheat from chaffe. Hearing the questions called out for the source of the fire, she tries to pick the answers out of the voices of the milling crowd and the general background din.
[[ Listen 19 ]]
Florin Jadenth Tuesday May 4th, 2004 3:56:20 PM
Florin hopes off the boat and tosses a second gp to Minos, "Thanks my friend and take care of yourself."
Florin looks to the others and motions to everyone, "We head together, I don't like the thought of some anvil heart attack, remember we need to be cautious and we are still in a weakened state at the moment." Is meaning Angus spells, etc. Thinks everyone will agree that tactical speaking Florin's reasoning is sound.
Florin pushes on now towards the crowded people and calls out as he does, pulling his large steel shield so the emblem of Domi shows, "Make way people. If there is a problem then a follower of Domi should be there to check it out and make a report." Florin hopes that the people might take his comment to heart and make passage easier, if nothing else it will get a guard attention which still might score some help since he will explain that they need to get to the orphanage and where the heck is the fire at.
Wynn Tuesday May 4th, 2004 10:01:32 PM
Unsure of what is going on, Wynn follows Xenia as closely as possible, trying not to lose her in the crowd.
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Tuesday May 4th, 2004 11:02:27 PM
Sunshine is glad to be off the boat but clearly wants to run when he gets on the dock but stays close to Lang when he issues the command. Sunshine sniffs at th air though and whines at Lang.
Syr Wednesday May 5th, 2004 1:27:33 AM
Syr's eyes strain to follow the trail of smoke, hoping to decifer it's source. Looking at Angus wide-eyed, he clutches his arm tightly, "Quickly! Please use it, if anything happened to them, I may be able to help!"
To Florin he rebukes softly, "Flor with all due respect, practice what you preach! You set up a meeting with Jonas alone without much thought and now you want to go as a group?" A small sound of angst and frustration escapes his lips, "I'm sorry but with Angus' spell I should be okay and I do a decent job of taking care of myself. I'll hurry back once everything is okay."
To Angus, "Let's do this!"
Once the sorcerer completes the spell he races off through the crowd. The elf uses his small nimble form to dart in the gaps between people. Syr takes the most direct route back to the orphanage slowing only if it's obvious the smoke comes from a different source. If it does then he tries to determine the cause without going out of his way.
Not really a religious person, the elf mumbles a prayer to Domi for the children's sake in between breaths as he runs.
Against the Tide (DM MikeK) Wednesday May 5th, 2004 9:26:03 AM
Syr eagerly turns to Angus for the spell, and the sorcerer turns him invisible. After a word or two with Florin, the monk is gone.
Xenia is rapidly on his invisible heels. Wynn pursues the rogue.
The nimble elves frantically dive into the crowd, seeking passage. People bustle down the street, an inexorable stream flowing against them. Occasionally, for the briefest of moments, an opening will form in the crowd -- a crack here, a crevice there. The trio pop in and out of the smallest of openings, dancing sidewise between couples, even leaping the odd halfling or gnome. The stream of smoke continues to flow overhead.
[Everyone make Spot check DC 12 to notice a wand bearing, white robed figure directing a spell up at the smoke. Spot DC 17 will reveal another on the opposite side of the street.]
[Xenia, Syr, and Wynn -- roll a Dex check DC 12 to make progress. The higher the roll, the farther you get. If you fail the Dex check, roll Str check DC 10 to avoid getting stampeded]
Florin, having lost half his group already, produces his shield and steps forward along one side of the crowd. The rest of the party follows the armored, shield wielding paladin.
The nearest guards look at the quartet with brief interest, but with a shrug of their shoulders, quickly return to guiding the crowd along the docks.
Maybe it's the shield of Domi. Maybe its armor. Maybe it's the look on Florin's face. Whatever the reason, the crowd does part, allowing the quartet to slowly advance up one side of the street.
The origin of the smoke is still unknown, but also still coming straight down the street.
Among discussions of lost business, recompense from the city, sales on scarves, and where the smoke is coming from, Xenia picks out one word.
"Orphanage"
Angus d20+3=23 d20+10=30 d20+5=10 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 10:10:47 AM
Angus will follow behind Florin knowing he wouldn not be able to get through the crowd by himself very easily. Angus takes in the whole scene (spot 23, Nat 20).
Angus takes note of the two wizards and attempts to discern what they are doing (spellcraft 30, nat. 20 #2, Oh yeah!).
Angus also calls out to several of the local guards to attempt to figure out if his friend Gordo and the orphans are in trouble as he suspects (Local Knowledge 10, the 20 have stopped). Angus is careful not to get out of Florin's slipstream during his inquiries.
Angus mutters to Florin "I hope everyone is alright. I told you we should have killed those scum. I know you have strong convictions Florin, but most people do not look at the world the same way you do...... Lets hurry!"
Not a coincidence. Not a coincidence. Not a coincidence.
"Not a coincidence," Xenia mutters out loud as she ducks and dodges through the seething mass of people.
"It's the orphanage!" she shouts out to Syr and Wynn when they come in and out of view through the crowd.
Not a coincidence.
And the rogue's eyes begin double duty, searching the street and building faces for enemies as well as for openings in the crowd.
[[ ROLLS ]] Spot 27 Dex 14 Escape Artist 22 (Would you accept an Escape Artist Roll instead?) [[ EndROLLS ]]
Florin Jadenth Wednesday May 5th, 2004 4:17:49 PM
Florin sighs slowly and doesn't answer Angus's comment as he picks up the pace, watching each person they pass and hopes everyone willingly moves out of the way now as he continues along.
Florin will make the quickest route to the orphange, doing what he must to get there, he glances back at the others, "Let us hope friends."
Lang d20+5=9 d20+5=20 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 5:43:32 PM
Lang will unstrap his Quarterstaff from his backpack and fall in behind Florin. He will take up rear guard, with Sunshine in his customary Heel position on Lang's left side.
Keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary, Land notices what appears to be a wizard or cleric using a wand up ahead. He will say in a hushed voice, "Spell-user up ahead on the other side of the street" to the group with Florin.
Rolls: Spot 9 Spot 20
OOC - Using the Quarterstaff as a walking stick (non-threatening).
Wynn Brightsong d20+3=22 d20+6=8 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 6:39:25 PM
Wynn ducks and weaves through the crowd, staying close on Xenia's heels[Dex=22]. The bard keeps a careful eye on his companion to avoid losing her, and himself in the process. His surroundings are nothing more than a blur of faces, bodies, and buildings [Spot=8]
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Wednesday May 5th, 2004 11:02:14 PM
Sunshine moves to follow Lang, keeping on his heels as well as possible as to not get stepped on. Sunshine nuzzles Lang's hand once in a sense of worry as they move along.
Tionel Thursday May 6th, 2004 2:31:33 AM
The elf follows after the others. Battered, bruised, and tired, he leans and keeps a grip on the shoulder of the person in front (probably Syr, I guess). "I can't take much more of this in one day, I'm afraid. My mind is feeling all frazzled...I'm afraid I might do something awful, by accident."
Syr d20+5=21 d20+8=9 Thursday May 6th, 2004 7:37:05 AM
Syr makes good progress weaving through the crowd (Dex check 21, any bonus for invis?). His attention is focused on getting to the orphanage so he misses the two wand wielders.
More Smoke (DM MikeK) Thursday May 6th, 2004 10:15:20 AM
Angus can tell the spells the white robed figures are casting have something to do with wind, because whatever it is appears to be directing the smoke down the street and toward the opening at the docks. However, the spell is not arcane, so he can't make a positive identification.
Lang also spots the casters, but everyone else is too worried about getting to the orphanage.
Syr is very annoyed to find Xenia and Wynn are making more progress than he is. His invisibility is turning out to be a hindrance, rather than help. While individuals in the crowd instinctively recoil from the sight of the rogue and bard flashing in front of them, they just plow right into the invisible monk.
The trio, led by Xenia is now halfway to the apartments. The crowd is thinning, and moving faster to escape the smoke. The elves use the open space to their advantage, pelting heedlessly up the street. They blast past two more white robed casters, into the darkening smoke. The crowd is thinner, but the black, acrid smoke is thickening. Very soon, the three will be running through the stuff. Already their lungs are reacting to the choking gas, as the three cough for more air.
Florin and his quartet steadily plow up the side of the street. He's lost sight of the elves, but he knows where they're going. They resolutely stride forward. They too, see that soon enough the street will be filled with smoke.
Florin Jadenth Thursday May 6th, 2004 4:38:10 PM
Florin continues moveing on, taking time to stops long enough to wet a small piece of cloth and holding it over his nose and mouth to help keep the smoke down some, of course this doesn't help with seeing. Afterwards Florin continues moving on towards the orphanage.
Angus d20+3=9 Thursday May 6th, 2004 5:07:02 PM
Angus is getting more and more concerned as the get closer to the orphanage and mutters to himself " I just hate being right all of the time."
Angus follows Florin's example and ties a cloth over his mouth and nose for some protection from the smoke.
Angus now attempts to keep a watch for anything susptious (spot 9), but is too distracted from watching the spell users.
Xenia (20/23) d20+4=16 d20+7=15 Thursday May 6th, 2004 5:10:17 PM
Xenia stops briefly. Untying Tionel's hanky from around her wrist, she folds it in half, then ties it over her nose and mouth.
Then she leaps ahead, into the billowing smoke.
[[ Dex 16 / Escape Artist 15 ]]
Lang d20+5=18 Thursday May 6th, 2004 6:52:00 PM
Lang and Sunshine will continue as rear guard with Florin's group.
He continues to scan the crowd and the buildings for anything unusual.
When the smoke gets thicker he says to Florin, "Sunshine may not be able to go any farther into the smoke. We may have to circle around from the other side and get upwind from the smoke, and meet up with you at the orphanage or the apartment.
Rolls: Spot 18
Wynn d20+3=19 Thursday May 6th, 2004 8:03:45 PM
Wynn continues following behind Xenia [Dex = 19]. The bard holds his shirtsleeve against his nose and mouth as they move into the billowing smoke.
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Thursday May 6th, 2004 8:52:47 PM
Sunshine continues on with Lang but is having trouble with the smoke considering his nose is keener then that of a human or most races. He begins to slow abit and whine at Lang.
Tionel Friday May 7th, 2004 2:12:22 AM
Hobbling behind the dwarf, Tionel wonders if there's anything he can do. Anything... He stops, so suddenly, probably the person behind him bumps into him. But he stands there, stock still, even as the fire rages and the people around him call out. No. He can't...and the city, HIS city, is burning down. And it's not like it's done by accident, he can't help but think. This was done by the creatures inside of it, to hurt another part of it... In his mind, he pictures a forest, and an insane lion purposefully killing the creatures of the forest. Or a boar, foaming at the mouth, spreading its disease. Wolves killing all that lives out of pure bloodlust... it's almost unthinkable. A city is a forest, he thinks to himself. The only way for one to prosper is for all to prosper. Sure there can be rulers and authority, chains of command and such, but this...this is against the laws of nature, the laws of reason. It is not just inhumane, it is unnatural. Which to the peaceloving elf, a druid at heart, is even worse.
Syr Friday May 7th, 2004 2:36:41 AM
As the crowd thins out the elf uses his speed to race toward the orphanage. He mutters to himself for a moment, "Please let it be our apartments ACROSS from the orphanage..."
Fire (DM MikeK) Friday May 7th, 2004 10:23:54 AM
The elves, followed shortly by Florin's quartet, plunge into a wall of smoke as they drive toward the orphanage.
The black soot blinds the eyes and clogs the lungs. Squinting, and blinking back tears, most of the group tries to cover their mouths as they move forward.
[Everyone make 4 Fortitude checks against DC 15, 16, 17, and 18 respectively. Those using cloth coverings over their mouth get a +2 bonus. Failure means you spend the round choking and coughing, although you can still move and stumble forward]
Choking, coughing, teary eyed, and covered in a fine black soot, the group emerges into clean, sweet air as if stepping through an invisible wall. Two more white robed figures direct wands at the smoke, holding it in place at this point. The smoke also forms a ceiling overhead.
The effect is that of a giant black room enclosing your worst nightmare.
There are so many details, and the red light is dim and flickering. Only fragments are immediately apparent. The orphanage -- totally ablaze, tongues of fire leap from window and the now open roof to the top of the Fence Level, battled by flying figures of water. People lining the north end of the street, gawking at the carnage, held back by a cordon of city guards. Scores of figures -- city guards, wand carrying clerics and mages, dwarf and taur bucket brigages, shepherds of Alemi with children in their arms -- racing around the open area, a bustle of organized chaos.
Points of white light piercing the reddish black glow of the enclosure - near one a huddle of children wail hysterically as white robed figures attempt to hold them - another, more figures move purposefully about a group of prone bodies - another, city guards stand a mournful watch over a series of blanket covered forms.
A soot and sweat covered woman, grim with fatigue and purpose, looks over as the group emerges. She barks a sharp command, "You there! No sightseeing! Get over to the cordon, and stay out of the way!"
Xenia (HP20/23) d20+4=7 d20+4=24 d20+4=7 d20+4=24 Friday May 7th, 2004 11:50:55 AM
Dark acrid smoke catches at Xenia's lungs and bites at her eyes and nose drawing bitter painful tears. Still, doubled over, blind and hacking, the dark rogue stumbles on. Once more, she is slowed by the billowing smoke before breaking out into the clean air of ... some part of Hell.
Xenia stands in stunned silence before the enormity of the scene. She sees herself with some small detached part of her mind, watching the thin half elven girl drawing in jerky spasmodic breaths, the tears rolling down her face no longer necessarily the result of the stinging smoke.
"We, we ... " Xenia's voice hiccups and chokes on tears. "We live in the apartment across the street," she says to the woman in charge..
"We want to help. I want to help. I mean, I'm sure everyone wants to help. Oh, I'm sorry, forget it. I <sob> I can't talk now." And she charges out, the wail of children drawing her through the demon red darkness toward the point of light.
In a swirl of images, she gathers children to her, holding them; comforting the children as she in turn draws comfort from them.
Wynn Brightsong d20+7=16 d20+7=16 d20+7=27 d20+7=25 d8+5=6 Friday May 7th, 2004 5:51:02 PM
The bard breaks through the smoke, tears streaming from his stinging eyes. It takes him a moment to get his bearings and take in the confusion around him.
Wynn pointedly ignores the woman shouting orders at him and advances to where the wounded are being tended to. "My name is Wynn" he volunteers, "and I have some minor skill in healing. Can I be of assistance?"
Wynn will cast cure light wounds on one of the injured if his offer is accepted [CLW=6].
"Does anyone know what happened here?" he whispers to one of the other samaritans.
Angus Friday May 7th, 2004 7:29:47 PM
Upon seeing the inferno Angus, the thin sorcerer begins to shake with anger. Angus is not composed enough to answer the women giving instuctions. Angus moves forward and takes a long look at the bodies under blankets as he goes to Xenia and the children.
Angus says mostly to himself. "No quarter will be given."
Angus kneels down next to the kids and attempts to see if any are missing. Angus then thinks of Gordo and not seeing him call out "Gordo!" and waits for a reply.
Angus then goes about comforting the orphans.
Florin Jadenth d20+11=19 d20+11=12 d20+11=14 d20+11=13 Saturday May 8th, 2004 1:21:28 AM
Florin pushes through the smoke, at first okay but then starting to choke and as he clears the smoke he takes a moment to wipe tears from his eyes before looking up to see the smoking orphanage. Seeing this causes a great stab of pain in his chest and Florin stops dead, staring at the orphanage before moving towards it and calls to the lady who barks orders, "Anyone in there yet?"
Florin will do one thing before finding out what he can do to help. Florin moves over to the burning orphanage and pulls out a small pouch which he will put some of the ash from the orphanage in and put it in his pocket, needing it for something later.
Florin looks to Syr when he sees him and then Xenia and Angus, Florin whispers lowly to himself, "Domi forgive me. Your servants decision has cost much...to much." He looks away from them shortly after feeling out of place now since it was his decision alone now that Bralin had been called away, that the anvil hearts were allowed to live.
If he can not help in anyway or is stopped Florin will head to the temple of Domi, not saying a word since at the moment he is haunted by his decision and the out come.
Lang d20+6=11 d20+5=21 d20+8=24 d20+7=8 d20+8=19 d20+7=15 d20+8=24 d20+7=12 Sunday May 9th, 2004 8:51:54 PM
Lang pushes through the smoke, but does not get far before he starts coughing. He takes a moment to get some cloth, wet it and put it over his mouth and nose. He takes another piece of wet cloth and wraps it around Sunshines nose (first fort check Lang 11 & Sunshine 21).
Seeing that Sunshine is ok so far Lang will push forward. Lang feels a difference with the cloth on his face, but notices that Sunshine is starting to react to all the smoke (second fort check Lang 24 & Sunshine 8).
Lang checks Sunshines cloth. Not wanting to get split up from the group he urges Sunshine on. Seeing that Sunshine is really irritated by the smoke now, Lang picks Sunshine up and carries him, softly talking to him to keep him calm (third & fourth fort checks Lang 19 & 24 and Sunshine 15 & 12).
Once through the smoke Lang will make his way carrying Sunshine over to Xenia, Angus and the group of children. He will gently lay Sunshine down and pet and talk to him until the clean air makes its way through Sunshine. If any of the children want to pet/comfort Sunshine he will say it is alright.
Syr d20+6=23 d20+6=14 d20+6=26 d20+6=23 Monday May 10th, 2004 2:21:57 AM
Syr spends a few moments with his hands on his knees coughing from the smoke but comes through the majority of it without difficulty. He makes it into the clear area and straightens quickly looking around him.
Seeing the blanket draped figures a sob catches in his throat as he thinks of Gordo. A second image also springs to mind, he looks around frantically for Mother Flauset.
The elf meets Florin's tear filled gaze with a hardened stare of his own then looks away. Never one to deal in what-ifs, he focuses on resolving the present situation. He shouts at the woman ordering them back, "IS THERE ANYONE STILL INSIDE?"
Confusion (DM MikeK) d20+1=5 d20+1=8 d20+1=9 d20+1=14 2d6(4+4)=8 3d6(4+3+4)=11 Monday May 10th, 2004 10:31:28 AM
Stunned by what they are experiencing, the party splits up. Each person trying vainly to make sense of what they see, hear, and feel. The woman in charge thinks for a second about saying something else, but dismisses the group with a wave and turns back to her task in directing the fire fighting activities.
Xenia stumbles forward to the group of children. As she approaches, one breaks free, dashes to the rogue and latches herself firmly to the elf's leg. It is Kyria, the girl she played with during those carefree days so little time ago. The blond ponytails are still in place, but under a film of black soot. The girl is inconsolable. She maintains a vice like grip on Xenia's leg, shaking back and forth, while wailing a single, piercing, unending note of pain and loss. A dwarf of the city guard follows girl, grabs her by the waist, and tries to pull her from Xenia. "You can't leave the safety area!" he growls in exasperation. The dwarf manages to get Kyria's lower body off the ground, but the girl won't let go of Xenia. Her wailing, if anything, gets louder.
Wynn moves purposefully to the group tending the wounded. A dark haired man looks up as the bard makes his offer, points to an injured boy about 12 years old, and returns to his own patient. Asking the other Shepherds about want happened gets Wynn nothing but several head shakes in reply. The boy stares expressionless at the fire. In an emotionless monotone, he answers the elf. "They burned it. They walked in, killed Mama, and burned it." He looks Wynn in the face, his eyes pleading behind a flat face, "Why would they do that?"
Angus emerges from the smoke coughing and gasping for air. The sorcerer is dizzy headed and takes several minutes just to get everything working again. [I rolled the Fort checks for you, failed all four times. Angus takes 11 hp non-lethal damage.] Once he can see straight again, Angus walks to the dead. The two Guards move to block him from approaching too closely, and sorcerer simply stands and stares. There are five blanket covered bodies. Three are much too small to be lying in this place, in these conditions. Walking resolutely to the children, Angus remembers Gordo and calls out his name. "He's over there," a boy answers through clenched teeth, pointing to the group of wounded some 50' away. The boy is a teenager, and stands behind the crying children with three other teens, another boy and two girls. All stand erect, fists clenched, ready to spring. They look at Angus, and then back at the fire. The looks on their faces echo the sorcerer's own - Hate.
Like Angus, Florin catches a heavy lung full of smoke, and emerges coughing and gasping for air. [8hp non-lethal damage] Once he's able, he tries to approach the building, but is cut off by two axe carrying men. "Get back, man!" one exclaims, "It could come down any minute!" The paladin stumbles back home to the sanctuary of the Temple of Domi, lost in his owns doubts and guilt.
Lang and Sunshine have some trouble with the smoke, but manage to fight through it. The ranger leads his companion over to the children. Tiny hands automatically seek out the canine, as a group of smaller children almost mechanically pet him. Maybe its helping them, its hard to tell.
Syr emerges into the clean air, and immediately takes stock of the situation. He scans fervently for Mama Flaust, but doesn't see her. In the commotion and confusion, that doesn't mean a whole lot, however. He says something to the woman, and she looks back at him (the elf realizes he is visible again). "Everyone is accounted for," she replies, and again turns back to her duties.
Florin Jadenth Monday May 10th, 2004 11:43:18 AM
Florin will take enough time to still gather abit of the ash in a small pouch before going to the temple, risking what may happen.
Florin walks up the temple steps feeling more like a robot now then anything and stops to speak to any guard who might be present, otherwise he will go in and speak to the first person he sees, "Tell one of the head priests that I need to see him or her right away. Also if there isn't already we should send someone to Mama Flaust's orphanage, the dead need their rights given properly and help needs to be given to those injured. If the priests we send need payment then I will gladly and willingly pay the money needed for that."
Florin moves to his room and kneels on the small padded pillow like that he uses for prayer and closes his eyes. After a few moments Florin unsheathes his longsword and pours abit of the ash he collected on the blade and then sprinkles some around himself in a small circle, whispering, "Domi, god that I serve. I can not turn my back on what has happened and I can not just forget. Any anvil heart from this day foreward will find no justice from my blade for what they have done. I pray you bless me in my course of action and will speak to one of the lead priests of the temple before going on. My decision on this will not be altered though." Florin lowers his long sword to the floor, the blade still sprinkled with the ash and closes his eyes, waiting for someone to come to him from the temple or if a member of the group sees him before that. Till then he prays to Domi and hopes that Domi will not be angered by his decision.
Angus Monday May 10th, 2004 11:54:06 AM
After Angus gets control of his coughing, which takes awhile as he seems to be doing his best effort to expell one or both of this lunges from his body.
Angus coughs out thanks the young teenager who gave him information on Gordo. "Thanks, stay there and stay safe, take care of the young ones. I will be back in a moment."
Angus moves over to where Gordo is suppose to be and calls out to him in between coughing fits " Gordo, where are you?"
Angus's skin is pale from his lack of oxygen and his eyes are tearing from the soot and violence, but his eyes seem to have their own inner fire that will only be quenched with vengence.
Wynn d20+2=18 Monday May 10th, 2004 6:54:11 PM
Wynn tends to the 12-year old boy. "I don't know lad! Evil takes many forms and has many purposes." As he finishes treating the boy's wounds he inquires further. "How many were there? What did they look like? Do you know who they were?" The bard tries to maintain a soft and even tone despite the turmoil that brews within him. [Gather information=18]
Xenia (HP 20/23) Monday May 10th, 2004 7:03:08 PM
"No, no. Stop. Please," the girl rogue says as she fends off the dwarven city guard. She clutches the little blonde girl to her, hugging her tightly. "Kyria. Kyria, I'm so glad ... I thought ... " She hugs the girl again before brushing stray blonde tresses from her face and kissing her on the forehead.
"There's a brave girl," Xenia says, wiping tears from Kyria's soot stained face with a gloved hand. Kyria looks up at the dark rogue with stout blue eyes, and Xenia so wants to hug her again. But she doesn't. Instead, she says, "I bet you're the bravest girl here, huh? I bet you're braver than the boys."
"Let's go back to the light over there, 'k? Let's see if we can go take care of the rest of the kids. I bet they're pretty scared."
Xenia looks up from the girl, and gives the dwarven guard a tight smile of thanks. Then she takes Kyria's small hand in hers, and they walk towards the light, to see if they can help comfort the other children.
Lang d20+10=19 d20+5=18 Monday May 10th, 2004 7:31:04 PM
Seeing that Sunshine is ok from trip through the smoke Lang says, "Sunshine stay".
"Kids can you watch my dog for a little bit?" he will say to the little kids petting his dog.
Lang will stand up and look around for the rest of the group, stopping his search when he sees the 3 blanketed bodies that are obviously children. How could they do this to children he thinks to himself. Not knowing how to help makes Lang feel helpless and then angry.
Realizing that whoever did this may be in the crowd watching, Lang will covertly make his way towards the largest group of onlookers (hide 19). Scanning the crowd, he will look for anyone who is not as horrified and as sad as he is that children have died (spot 18).
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Monday May 10th, 2004 8:28:00 PM
(OOC:Sorry for not posting last round for Sunshine.)
Sunshine licks at the children as they pet him and enjoys the attentions. He does as Lang says and stays with the children, playing with them as he tries to comfort in his own way.
Tionel Monday May 10th, 2004 10:52:35 PM
In the alley nearby, watching it all with misted tears, Tionel stays in his shocked state. Mama Flaust, dead? The kind and blustering old matron of the Orphans, who had watched over his friends, gone. Usually, he has words to express what he is feeling. Especially words for confusion and curiousity. But now his tongue lies heavy, and his throat is too constricted to let loose anything.
Syr Tuesday May 11th, 2004 4:21:02 AM
The elf moves over to the covered bodies and gently lifts the blanket to peer underneath (invisible if need be). After lifting the blanket off each of the small forms he mutters a name and his face loses all expression. He sits for a while by the corpses.
Finally screwing up the courage he directly at the house. Giving way to all the pain and rage inside he howls, "Momma!!!" and hugs the corpses tightly. Wordlessly, he gets up shaking his head, "Drake, you were too good for this. You all were."
Rising he looks at the group of huddled children, he calls out, "Xenia! Why don't you bring them to our place for the time being?" He moves numbly to their house to open for the kids to enter.
As the paladin leaves the scene, he shakes his head in disgust. Calling after Florin, "Florin, there we be a reckoning for this..."
Interlude (DM MikeK) Tuesday May 11th, 2004 8:54:36 AM
Florin ignores the men's warning, pausing in front of the burning edifice long enough to gather up some of the soot. At the Temple, he makes his request, kneels, prays, and waits. Soon enough, Father Dremond, the Temple's chief Confessor, raps respectfully at the doorway. "What troubles you, friend Florin?" he asks in his low, soothing bass voice.
Angus, still coughing, makes his way to the wounded. Gordo is easily found, lying unconscious on a hastily made bed of blankets. The big man's red beard is singed, and his face is bruised. Across his bare stomach is the faint red line of a recently healed wound. More healed cuts decorate his arms and legs. His pants are fairly shredded from the number of blows he must have sustained. For now, the big monk sleeps.
The sorcerer can hear Wynn conversing with the 12 year old. "They were everywhere," the boy says in the shocked monotone. "They just walked in and started throwing torches." His gaze falls to Gordo. "He fought them. Four, five, six at a time. They stuck him and stuck him and stuck him, but he kept fighting...." Tears are streaming down the boy's face now, and he breaks off, sobbing.
The dwarven guard looks at Xenia, then Kyria, shrugs, and lets go. "You'd all be safer over there," he tells her, then he returns to watching the other kids. Kyria finally lets go, sobbing big gasping sobs as she hears Xenia's words. She nods solemnly to the rogue, ponytails bobbing as she does so, and returns to the other kids.
Lang works his way among the onlookers, searching for anyone not appalled by the sight. He doesn't find any. Some 50 to 60 people watch from the safety of the cordon. "Those poor dears." "Where are all those kids going to go?" "What happened?"
Tionel sits by himself, trying vainly to understand his world.
Syr, who is visible, goes to the bodies. "Stop." commands the guard. "Who are you, and can you identify these people?" When the monk tells them he's a former orphan, the man's eyes soften, and he mutely indicates for the elf to go ahead. Syr identifies the dead -- Maryl Thomen, human female, age 8 Perrin, halfling male, age 12 Torkal Thomen, human male, age 6 Drake Alasaya, human male, age 16 Mama Flaust, human female, age unknown
Calling for Xenia, Syr moves to the apartments. The monk sees a paper stuck to the door with a dagger. It reads "Do not cross us again". There is no signature, or any other identifying markings.
There are some 50 children, of all ages, now homeless and alone.
Angus d20+1=14 d20+1=21 Tuesday May 11th, 2004 12:01:49 PM
Angus drops down next to Gordo and quickly checks to make sure he is alright but unconscious he then starts yelling "I have found Gordo! He is hurt! Tionel where are you!?! Your friend Gordo can use your skills! Now!"
Angus stays with Gordo and mumbles to himself "He cures the Anvil Hearts and is nowhere to be found when friends need curing..."
Angus looks over to Wynn after overhearing his converstation with the boy. "Thank you for helping our friends. It is greatly appreciated."
Angus goes back to Gordo and attempts to make him more comfortable, by using his small backpack as a pillow, but takes wine and water out first.
Angus goes back to yelling for Tionel as it seems to focus his anger on a somewhat helpfull coarse of action.
Angus goes back to muttering to Gordo "They will pay for this all of them....."
OOC made to more fort save if they are necessary 14 & 21.
Florin Jadenth Tuesday May 11th, 2004 2:48:12 PM
Florin doesn't compose himself or the room since the soot from the orphanage is still around him in a circle and his longsword still lays infront of him with the soor linning the blade. When he hears the knock and Father Dremond speak he looks up and waits for the man to come in.
Once Father Dremond enters Florin looks down at the blade of his longsword for a moment before looking up. His decision having made his eyes look hard and a flame of hate and burns within them, "Father Dremond, during the last mission I had with my friends we had a fight with the anvil heart gang. In the end I decided to allow two of the members to leave without further harm since they were injured already and in no shape to fight. I doubt the decision was a good one now since now that we returned we have found the orphanage burning down and many people hurt, injured and emotionaly hurt."
Florin pauses for a few mins and continues, "I prayed to Domi and have told him that I plan to kill every anvil heart I find and anyone wearing the groups colors or symbol. I do not know if the temple or Domi will be pleased with this decision but I can not set by after what they have done. I'm not a blade of justice or vengence but I just can't let this go, I would like to know if the temple will back what I plan or if I must do it without the temples backing? I also would like a priest of Domi to go and help at the orphanage if we can spare one. I will pay for the priests services if needed. If I have to...I...will speak to my father about the orphans...my hate burns deeply for him but the orphans will need a home and soon. I know we can't house the orphans here so I hope someone steps foreward and is willing to help."
Xenia (HP 20/23) Tuesday May 11th, 2004 3:35:27 PM
Xenia nods to Syrdeth.
"Kyria, sweetheart," she calls out, "we're going to move everyone into the apartments. We don't want to leave anyone behind, so you have to help me out, okay? I need five older kids who can help keep track of people, and I need you to tell me which ones would be best."
The girl rogue gets the name of three boys and two girls then has Kyria point them out. She gathers them together and explains the plan. "It's not really safe out here in the streets, so we're going to try to move everyone into our apartments. At least for now. You five know everyone, so I'm counting on you to make sure everyone makes it ok and is present and accounted for once we're in. Pull together five groups and wait out here for me. I'll take you in one at a time. Remember, we don't want to leave anybody out here lost or alone. Okay? I'll try and round up some food, then we can talk about sleeping arrangements."
While the older children are organizing the younger ones, Xenia seeks out Tionel. "Tionel, if you know anybody in town who would be willing, it would be so nice to get some food for the kids. I think it would go a long way towards making them not so scared."
On her way back to pick up the first group of kids, the flame-headed rogue looks around, and she wonders where Florin is.
Wynn Brightsong 2d8(4+8)+3=15 d20+7=15 Tuesday May 11th, 2004 6:29:45 PM
Wynn nods in understanding as the boy recounts how the attack unfolded. The bards does his best to settle the boy.
"How old are you lad?" he asks, "12 or 13 by my guess. The younger children need you now. They are frightened and need one of the older kids to help them. Xenia needs you to help if you can."
Once the lad is safely under Xenia's wing he turns his attention to the unconcious figure at Angus' feet. Wynn touches the man with his wand [Cure Moderate Wounds 15 hp, UMD 15] and waits for him to regain conciousness.
Lang Tuesday May 11th, 2004 9:15:18 PM
Lang will make his way back to the children and Sunshine. Reaching down he will give Sunshine a quick pat/rub on his head and say "Good boy".
After listening to Xenia instruct the older children to organize the orphans into groups of 10, he will make his way towards the youngest of the children.
Once there he will help organize the children for moving towards the apartment, knowing they will need the most help.
To Sunshine he will say "Heel".
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Tuesday May 11th, 2004 10:56:57 PM
Sunshine barks and licks at Lang's hand before sitting and watching round of the children. Sunshine sniffs at one of the crying children and licks his face before looking up at Lang.
Syr Wednesday May 12th, 2004 2:57:15 AM
Taking the dagger from the door he rolls the note up and saves it carefully in his pouch. He tucks the dagger into his belt and opens the door for the kids to stream through.
After seeing Xenia begin hearding the children in the right direction he moves upstairs. The elf takes a quick peek into the bedrooms looking for anything unusual. Then he closes all the bedroom doors and moves back downstairs. Syr moves about the house making sure all the kids make it inside and are settled down. He picks up Lydia and carries her around on his shoulders as he directs the others.
Gordo (DM MikeK) Wednesday May 12th, 2004 8:33:06 AM
As the wand's effect takes hold, the big monk's eye pop open. After quickly scanning the faces of Angus and Wynn, he pops up into a sitting position and looks at the orphanage.
He watches the burning building for half a minute in stone-faced silence. He stands, turning his gaze from the building to the wounded beside him, the children following Syr, Xenia, and Lang, and finally the dead.
He stops again, gazing solemnly at the bodies. "How many?" he finally asks quietly.
Sanctuary (DM MikeK) Wednesday May 12th, 2004 9:53:07 AM
Father Dremond's eyes are a mixture of sympathy and disappointment. "We have people at the orphanage already, Brother Florin," he replies softly. "And you know we cannot endorse vengeance upon a group for the sins of but a few. You blame yourself for showing mercy? And yet you must gather the courage to show mercy again. It is mercy that separates us from those you hate. Think on this Brother Florin, and make no rash moves. Go back to the children, and spend the coming days protecting the living, rather than seeking vengeance for the dead."
Xenia, Syr, and Lang, accompanied by a few of the city guard and some of the older children, help round up the orphans and get them into the group's apartments. Syr makes a quick scan of the upper floors to ensure no other surprises await. Except for Bralin's double room, all is just as they left it. The dwarf's former room is bare, with the exception of a statuette in green stone setting on the table.
As the last of the children file quietly into the house, the orphanage across the street collapses upon itself. For a brief moment, flames light up the street in an orange-red as the building gives up its struggle to survive. The kids huddle in small groups in the apartment, sniffling quietly and waiting for the next blow the Wold seems to have in store.
Angus Wednesday May 12th, 2004 10:10:56 AM
Angus is very happy to see Gordo concious, but his mood darkens as the gravity of Gordo's question hits him "I saw five covered bodies.". Angus motions over to the still covered forms.
"Xenia, Syr and Lang are taking the orphans to the apartments." Angus adds and then carefully mentions "What happened?", but before waiting for an answer Angus asks " Are you ready to get off the street and up the the apartments.". Angs extends his boney arm to the burly monk to help him stand.
Angus looks to Wynn "This is our new friend Wynn, he cured you."
Florin Jadenth Wednesday May 12th, 2004 2:41:21 PM
Florin nods at Father Dremond's words and sheathes his longsword now as before standing and speaking more calmly to Father Dremond, "Father Dremond, I know my decision is a disappointment to the temple. Domi's will is as strong as iron and almost everyone in this temple knows my will is also strong. I will do my best to help the orphans but I can not and will not forgive the anvil hearts. If a chance shows itself I will do something to end them. I'm not qualified to say this but I myself do not think Domi would want people who would slaughter innocents to not atleast be taught a lesson. It is the duty of some to teach the lesson when others can not." Florin looks down thinking of previous info gather on the anvil hearts, "I do not think the city guard can do much to them Father Dremond, Jonas is to careful and would find some way out of the trouble."
Florin holds a hand out to Father Dremond, "I'm sorry if my words struck a bad cord with you or the temple and I can only hope that anything I say the temple can forgive, I will pray to Domi on this matter more also. He has always leads us on the true path and surely will help guide me farther."
After shaking Father Dremond hand or not he bids the priest farewell and leaves only after gathering a few pieces of charcoal from the fireplace in his room.
Once outside of the temple Florin takes in a vey deep breath and makes his way to the apartment that his friends call home, wondering on his way what type of a greeting he might get from them. All this seems so out of hand at the moment and Florin feels stuck in the middle of a endless loop.
Once Florin reaches the apartments he will slowly knock on the foor and call out, "It's Florin."
Xenia (HP 20/23) Wednesday May 12th, 2004 3:41:13 PM
Xenia opens the door to Florin's call.
"There you are. I was worried about you." She takes the paladin's arm and pulls him in from the dark redly glowing street, to the apartments, full of activity and children.
Xenia pulls Florin to a place where they can hear each other over the voices of the children. "I've asked Tionel to see if he could find anyone who could contribute a meal for 'bout fifty kids, Florin," she starts off, "but we can't really do this on a meal by mean basis. I think it would be better if we could find someone who can pledge a weeks worth of food. Seven days worth at two meals per day. And I don't think the kids will mind sleeping on the floor for a while. But we'll need fifty some blankets. And I don't think we have enough cups to go around either, so we'll need something for them to drink out of. And clothes. We'll need changes of clothing."
"Oh," Xenia heaves a sigh at the daunting task ahead. "Do you know anyone who might be able to supply any of that?"
"And, we'll have to start looking for a new place for the kids soon." sigh again "Bathrooms are going to be a real problem for a while too."
Wynn Brightsong Wednesday May 12th, 2004 7:54:45 PM
"Wynn Brightsong at your service" the bard speaks softly to Angus' friend and helps te man to his feet. "Did you see who did this? Can you tell us who they were?"
Tionel Wednesday May 12th, 2004 8:16:22 PM
The elf follows the others somewhat morosely. (I'm real sorry, tehse last few days i've been studying for a big test thatis tomtooorrow) But he does go about healing Gordo, and spends most of his time with the healers, moving from hurt child to other, using up as many of his wand charges as it takes to heal the children.
Lang d20+5=8 d20+5=24 d20+5=12 d20+5=6 Wednesday May 12th, 2004 9:09:48 PM
Lang will help get the children into the apartment and settled in as best as possible. Once that is done he and Sunshine will head back outside and take a quick scout around the apartment building and the walled garden looking for anything unusual.
OOC - Is that an opening in the walled garden or is it completely enclosed?
Once back at the front door the 2 of them will wait there until the rest of the group arrives to the apartment building.
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Thursday May 13th, 2004 12:25:44 AM
Sunshine follows with Lang as he makes his rounds, alittle happier now but still not sure whats going on since the children were moved, the smoke outside and everything. He whines to Lang and stays close to Lang just incase.
Syr Thursday May 13th, 2004 4:03:08 AM
Syr looks up as Florin enters but has no words for the paladin. He ignores the others presence until talk of the future comes up. Talking about the kids future with Xenia, "We need a sponsor to rebuild the orphanage... What about that Duchess lady, she had connections?
So, what do we do? (DM MikeK) Thursday May 13th, 2004 8:36:20 AM
Father Dremond takes the paladin's hand. "May Domi's strength be with you," he says. Florin returns to the apartments, and is met by a very busy Xenia. The small rogue has compiled quite a list of "Things we need".
Angus and Wynn help Gordo to his feet and the three walk back to the apartments. "Thanks, son" Gordo says as they help him up. "Must have been the Hearts, but I couldn't prove it," he replies to their questions. "A dozen or so fellows busted in and started chucking torches. I got the jump on 'em, but they got some help. That blond lassie and her big goon boyfriend kept me busy while another guy with a wand starts throwing balls of fire around. Then, I got jumped from behind, and things got a wee bit difficult."
Tionel expends 10 charges of his wand healing the last of the wounded.
Lang and Sunshine make a quick sweep of the grounds. They spot nothing unusual. [There is a decorative gate in the garden wall]
Syr sits with Florin and Xenia to discuss where to get a sponsor to rebuild.
The kids start finding places to lie down. Many go to sleep. Many more mention that they are hungry or thirsty.
Syr and Xenia have brought up two issues, the short term needs of the kids, and the long term need of the orphanage.
Angus d20+7=13 Thursday May 13th, 2004 12:58:14 PM
Angus enters the apartments with Wynn and Gordo. Angus Announces "Gordo's on his feet again." Angus leaves Gordo with the largest throng of kids and goes over to Syr and Xenia to get an update on the new arrangements or plans there of.
Angus suggest "I am not from the Floating City originally and I get the impression that Wynn and Lang are not either. Unforunately, I am not from the immediate vicinity, but maybe one of the others is; as I am concerned that if the kids are kept in the Floating City they are still in danger. Maybe we can move them onto the shore line, but away from that evil crying woods, and set up an encampment. It may or may not be less expensive to run, but I am most concerned for their saftey. Especially with what I want to do to the Anvil Heart Gang."
Angus takes a breath and looks over at Florin. "There will be no quarter given this time, but I know we will not be able to get them all, so I want us to make some sort of arrangements for the litte ones before we start anything rash. Maybe Gordo will want to go on a camping adventure with the kids if he does not want to seek direct vengence for the Anvil Heart's evil deeds."
Angus walks over to Florin and looks him straight in the eye "I am interested in what you have planned for the EVIL Anvil Heart Gang, but we must make sure the kids are safe first. I have my own thoughts on the subject. We can save the discussion until the kids are feed and sleeping."
Angus pulls out his silver flute and attempts to take the kids mind of the horror of the day with some sweet melodies (perform 13), but can only do so much with the gravity of the situation; or is it that Angus's own dark mood is creeping into the music.
Florin Jadenth Thursday May 13th, 2004 2:56:42 PM
As Florin thinks of what is said his mind is still in a swirl and a glance at Syr doesn't help his mind at all but he finally speaks afer some time, "We would be putting the temple or any members in danger by asking them for help, let alone other people. Whoever we get help from will have to be someone of high social status so the anvil heart will think twice of attacking or doing anything."
Florin looks to his right hand as he speaks next, his words flowing smoothly but with a inner torment that can be felt from them, "My father is a noble of some influence. If I come back home so to speak and let "him" forgive me because I didn't want to be used for his power hungryness then I'm sure he would help the orphans here. I believe he would even see helping as a chance to improve his image and standings in the city." Glances to Syr, hoping he understands how bad he feels on this matter and also hopes Syr understands exactly how much Florin would be giving up by just going back to his father, let alone the things to come.
Florin thinks of something and looks to Syr now as he speaks, "Syr...I have 3 gold a 10 silver of my own money at the moment besides whats on a voucher. I will go see about getting food and water for the kids. I believe Happy would be the best to ask, he might want to help also."
Florin stands but before going looks at the kids asking for food and water. Making sure a couple are old enough that are still awake he moves over them and kneels down, "I know your thirsty and hungry. I'm going to get something for your guys now so just wait abit." Florin pulls of his heavy steel shield and lays it next to them and lays a piece of charcoal by it, "Tell you what, while I'm gone getting food why don't you use this charcoal and color my shield black for me, ok? I like the whole thing black in color." Florin ruffles the hair on a couple of the kid's heads before standing and smiling, hoping that keeps them busy for abit.
Florin will now quickly move to get food inless stopped. He will head for the GG to ask Happy about buying or getting some food.
"Don't spend your money, Florin." She reaches behind her to the haversack and comes back with a pouch.
"This is the money we took from the Anvil Hearts." The red-headed rogue hefts it for weight. "I bet there's between 450 and 500 gold here. "That's gotta cover a lot of meals. Delivered even. I bet it'll get us blankets and clothes too. And soap. We'll need soap."
"I'll go with you Florin," the dark rogue offers. "I bet Happy can get all of that stuff."
"And, uh, before we go ... " She draws everyone in the group around. "Angus might have a pretty good idea there," she whispers. "Remember that settlement those axe guys were talking about? The one's down on the dock standing off against the druids? Well, if the settlement out there is, kind of, you know, safe, and if there's someone there to take care of them, and if we can get them there, well, then, that might just be the place for all of these kids to go. You know, start a new life. Not an orphanage in the city. Outdoors. Maybe someday have their own land. I know that's a lot of if's, but it's something to think about, huh?"
"Huh?"
Lang Thursday May 13th, 2004 8:49:20 PM
Lang will let Sunshine out into the garden to do his business and to go to sleep.
OOC - Just double checking that he cannot get out of the garden unless the door or the gate is opened, right?
Lang will listen to Angus, Florin, Xenia and the rest of the group discuss what to do with the children and what to do about the Anvil Heart Gang.
"I probably do not have much say in all this as I have only been with the group a very short time (1 day I think!). But I think the children need to be looked after first as it will be very hard to attack the Anvil Hearts and defend 50 or so kids at the same time. I also think we need to determine if the Floating City is going to bring justice to the orphans and the orphanage. We will also need to determine what resistance, outside of the Anvil Hearts, that we will run into when we go after them. With that all said, count me in if we are the only ones that will seek justice for these kids."
When the group goes to sleep, Lang will join Sunshine out in the garden and sleep there.
Wynn Brightsong Thursday May 13th, 2004 9:48:26 PM
"What ever we do in the longer term, keeping 50 children here for very long will be impossible. Perhaps we can take over an Inn for a week until we have a better plan. An Inn will have the right facilities to provide meals, washrooms, and beds."
The bard takes a breath before continuing, "Does anyone know of an Inn we might commandeer? 500 gp will probably go a long way."
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Friday May 14th, 2004 12:23:44 AM
Sunshine stays out in the garden, sleeping now after all that has went on today. His tail wags and he whimpers in his sleep as he dreams of being on the boat with Minos and torturing the poor man.
Tionel Friday May 14th, 2004 4:13:25 AM
"I think I should get changed...Then I will go to the noblewoman who has given so much to Mama Flaust's orphanage. Poor lady..." Tionel almost chokes up at thinking that the old matron is dead... "I will beg for her to aid..." Dead children. Tionel stops mid-sentence, and heads to their home, unable to look at any of the others.
Syr Friday May 14th, 2004 5:26:30 AM
Syr stands unmoved before Florin as he speaks. However, when he turns to leave he pats the paladin on the back and gives him another 10 gp. With a soft smile, "I will stay here, bring back some fish for me, okay?"
As Florin moves to depart, "Justice will have to wait until we get a reliable roof over everyone's head. I don't know anything about your father. What I do know is that these kids need help, more than we are able to provide."
Gordo (DM MikeK) Friday May 14th, 2004 7:59:49 AM
The big, red-bearded monk breaks out of his reverie upon hearing the suggestions of Angus and Xenia.
"I don't know, lass," he answers the rogue thoughtfully. "There are some mighty dangerous critters on that shoreline, and that town is still in the 'going up' stages." Gordo looks out the window. "And it feels like running. And thats not something ol' Gordo is gonna do."
Visit with a Ghost (DM MikeK) Friday May 14th, 2004 8:17:06 AM
The kids split up into various groups and quietly take over the lower floor of the apartments. They seem unwilling to venture upstairs without some kind of permission. There is some quiet sobbing, but for the most part, the children are simply too drained to care anymore. A great many of them simply curl up and go to sleep, accompanied by the simple refrain of Angus' flute.
Florin finds a couple of kids still awake, and asks them to color his shield black. They look at him kind of sideways, but when he hands them the charcoal their faces break out in tight grins and they get busy.
Xenia hands the paladin the gold recovered from the caves, and he heads off to the Giggling Ghost.
After assuring himself that Sunshine can't get loose if let out into the side garden, Lang rejoins the discussion. Sunshine finds a nice soft spot in the dirt, and dreams doggie dreams.
Tionel echoes Syr's earlier suggestion about their patroness, but is quickly overcome with the need to get out of his garments. The druid goes upstairs.
Florin walks to the Giggling Ghost. Only blocks from the tragedy at the orphanage, life goes on as usual for the citizens of the Fence Level. It getting late, and the stores are closed, but the bars are open, and the sounds of drunken merriment spill onto the mostly empty streets.
Quietly, the paladin makes his way to the inn, and enters. An extraordinarily attractive spirit appears in front of him. Daphne's face is a picture of sadness and concern. "Oh my poor hero," she greets him. "Are you OK? How can we help? Come on?"
Daphne's escorts Florin to the office space in the back of the Ghost. Happy looks up from a sheaf of papers. His jovial face also drops into an expression of concern. "We heard about the fire," he says seriously, "how bad is it?"
Angus Friday May 14th, 2004 12:43:50 PM
Angus talks with Gordo, Wynn, Lang, Syr and Xenis after his flute performance(Florin is at the Ghost and Tionel is upstairs). "I just feel that the Floating City is the Anvil Hearts turf and we can not fight them and protect the kids. I do not completely trust the authorities here as they may have been penetrated by the gang. Does anyone know of a place to take the tikes off of the Floating City that they will be safe, becasue I am itching for a new shot at the thugs?" At the word shot Angus weaves his hands as it spellcasting.
After a big sigh Angus adds " I do agree that the kids come first, but payback can not be far behind."
Angus will listen to debate on the subject, but then goes upstairs to get some rest in order to recover his spells.
Xenia (HP 20/23) Friday May 14th, 2004 2:02:42 PM
At Angus's words, Xenia gets a real serious face. Not quite a scowl, but pretty close to a glower.
"Well, if you can't trust anyone, then you have to learn to trust yourself. If we can't fight and protect them, then we have to teach them to protect themselves. We can buy them weapons. A lot of them are the same age I was when my dad started teaching me."
"They need to be able to protect their own."
The dark rogue looks around the room at all of the tired sleeping children.
"Tomorrow," she says. "Starting tomorrow."
Curling up in a chair, she watches the children, and waits for Florin to return with news about supplies and accommodations.
Florin Jadenth Friday May 14th, 2004 5:39:10 PM
Florin looks at Daphne and brightens some at seeing the normally happy ghost. He allows her to lead him to the office where Happy is before speaking.
Once inside the office Florin sighs and sits if there is a chair, "The orphanage is a total loss. A couple kids and Mama Flaust died in the fire. My friends are allowing the children to stay at their appartment. We need some blankets for the kids, food, water and soon we will need to find a place for them to stay."
Florin looks to Daphne and then back to Happy, "I can buy the food and such from you if you have extra supplies that you can turn loose of. I will need some help probably getting the stuff to the appartments also." Florin smiles as he adds in, "I also need a couple fish for Syr."
Florin closes his eyes abit while waiting for any replies, tired from everything that has happened and his mind still swirling in many directions, one thing he knew was clear. Domi might not be happy with what was to come but the kids first...the kids must be taken care of.
Wynn Brightsong Friday May 14th, 2004 8:01:03 PM
"Your point is well taken friend. We can hardly pursue these murderous dogs and keep the young ones safe at the same time. We need to be sure of their sanctuary."
Wynn gets up and retrieves a bedroll from his pack to cover Xenia as she curls up on the chair.
"I have no knowledge of this city, where else might we find refuge for the children" he asks Angus.
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Saturday May 15th, 2004 4:33:03 PM
Sunshine continues his doggy dreams while outside in the nice fresh air and the garden.
Lang Sunday May 16th, 2004 9:17:21 PM
Lang nods his head in agreement that the kids come first.
"Maybe we can ask the Druids for help when we give them the bowl", Lang will say to the group.
Tionel d8=5 d8=3 d8=1 d8=6 Sunday May 16th, 2004 10:57:12 PM
Tionel stops along the way to his room to get a large bucket of water, and prepares a rose-smelling bath in his room. For quite a while he takes care of himself in the bath, more of a way to purify his mind than his body. He taps himself with the wand to finish off the healing four times, and rubs the wounds with herbs to make the bruises fade over time. He preens over his magnificent black hair, and with his handsome appearance restored, he faintly feels almost human again. Afterwards, he dresses up in fine arrainments, the clothes of a rich or noble man. Sitting down at the desk, he pulls out his journal and fills out quite a few pages with his thoughts and feelings. After a bit of thought, he pulls out a blank scroll and writes in a careful, immaculate script. Going downstairs, he nods to the others before pulling on a luxurious cloak. "I will return. And tomorrow, well, I think we all know what we'll do tomorrow. Though I also think we should have watches tonight." Tionel sweeps off... {To summarize his actions for the next while; he will approach the noble level entrance and (since I assume he's not allowed in with proper permit and such) there find a courtier to deliver the letter to the noblewoman who had helped the Orphanage and the heroes in the previous adventure. The letter, to sum, is structured into three sections. It begins with a flattering praise of the lady and her gifts, so as not to be ungrateful. Then, it goes into a most adventurous account of their mission for the druids, omitting the Anvil Hearts gang and instead going into detail the amusing voyage and the sailor, the perils of the cave, the most magnificent spot beyond, and the final trap. Of course, Tionel does his best to instill the adventurous excitement of the whole occasion, leaving out his personal anxieties and the Anvil Heart gang encounter. The final section depicts their return to the city, only to discover that the wonderful orphanage had been destroyed. He finishes the letter up with an eloquent plea to her gracious generousity, immense charity, and a promise to write of more entertaining experiences in the future. After that, Tionel will visit the druid home and leave a message for them, telling that the group will meet them tomorrow, after resting. He then proceeds to go to a few bars, and avoids drinking while chasing fun.}
Syr Monday May 17th, 2004 2:30:42 AM
It is obvious to all that the monk is in a melancholy mood, he sits quietly with the others staring into the fire.
At the mere thought of Xenia arming the orphans, a terrified look crosses the monk's face before becoming introspective, "I had hoped we were building a better place for the kids. By teaching them arms, we are almost perpetuating the cycle. Didn't whatshername give us a similar sob story about growing up?"
Looking over at Angus, he remarks sadly, "You know, it a vicious chain of events that we are in: we borrow the turtle to find the flowers for the druids... borrowing the turtle results in the contact from the Gang... our refusal to slay the sea monster causes us to help the druids find the bowl.. finding the bowl causes another confrontation with the Gang... and finally a burned orphange. We just seem to be spinning out of control."
After Tionel leaves, Syr heads up to the roof to keep watch throughout the night.
Feeding the Kids (DM MikeK) Monday May 17th, 2004 3:04:08 PM
[Apologies. Got a head cold. Feel like cr...really bad. Post will be too short, sorry]
Happy provides Florin with so many supplies the paladin needs a horse and wagon to carry it all. Happy supplies those too. The innkeeper says he'll pass the hat around in his bar.
Tionel delivers a letter to Lady Fiona, the group's benefactress, and another to the house of the Circle of The Alder.
The rest tuck in for the night.
Xenia (HP 20/23) Monday May 17th, 2004 4:46:29 PM
Xenia smiles up at Wynn as she takes the offered bedroll. For a long brief moment, the girl rogue is acutely aware of the skin on the bard's hand as it brushes her own. The rough-smoothness of it. The hot-coolness of it.
And then it's gone.
"It's not what you can do that makes the world better, Syr," Xenia says, placing a hand on the elven monk's shoulder. "It's what you do with it that makes the difference."
"If we don't teach these kids, then they won't be able to do for themselves. They never will be able to. But, if we teach them, then they have the choice to use it or not. My dad always says that's important. To be able to choose. Because, if you can't choose, you're not really free. If you don't choose, then you don't have an appreciation for what you have. Because you don't know what it's like not to have it."
She wraps her arms around the elf from behind, and gives him a warm hug.
Then Xenia climbs the stairs to her room. She skinnies out off the leather and the old clothes of the day. And putting on a long loose shirt, she heads back downstairs. Curling up in the chair again with Wynn's bedroll around her, she lays her head down for a moment to wait for Florin to return with food and supplies. Her eyes stare at the front door. The sounds of the few children still awake come to her ear as though from afar. And before you know it, Xenia is asleep.
Angus Monday May 17th, 2004 5:00:58 PM
Angus lays in bed for a while as sleep does not come easy, be it his mood or the noise from 50 additonal souls in the apartment. His mind keeps wandering between vengence and the need to protect and house all of the kids. Both will come in time as Angs drifts off to sleep.
Wynn Monday May 17th, 2004 5:34:49 PM
As folks get ready for bed, the bard moves about the rooms checking on the kids, as well as the state of the apartment. Splendid digs he thinks to himself. These adventurers have done well for themselves.
There's not much chance of claiming a room, or any private space for that matter, what with the homeless orphans like so many tiny sardines in a can. Wynn finds a hook from which to hang his pack, and looks for a good place to hunker down for a while. He stands for a moment behind the sleeping Xenia. With a dreamy look, he reaches out to gently wrap a curl of her long hair around his finger. Regretfully he lets the lock fall.
Locating a spot where he can keep the main entrance under surveillance, he sits with his back against the wall, his sword across his knees.
Florin Jadenth d20=6 d20+2=4 d20+5=25 d20+2=6 Monday May 17th, 2004 8:21:48 PM
Florin thanks Happy and Daphne for everything and makes his way back to the orphanage. He'll be happy if he gets the horse back with no problems (Handle Animal: 6, for got stat bonus so a 9).
Florin looks around to see if he can spot Syr but inless he is in plain sight Florin doesn't notice him. (Spot:4) Sighing to himself and hopes coloring his sheild kept atleast the one kid's mind off of needing food or water for abit, Florin takes a arm load of the food and water and moves to the door, lightly tapping on the door to get who evers up's attention.
Florin speaks up after knocking and opens the door, "It's Florin, I have some supplies from Happy and Daphne." Florin moves in to the appartment and lays the supplies he carried where he can and then walks out to get more. He keeps helping till all the supplies are in and then looks around.
He will check on the progress the kids made in coloring his shield and thank them, "good job guys. Thanks for your help with that." He smiles and motions to Xenia, "I figure if you ask Xenia or one of the others they'll get you some food and water. I'm going to go outside and keep a check on the place now and make sure you guys are safe tonight. I don't want any of you worrying, I won't no one pass."
Florin moves outside now and sits outside, stripping out of his armor since he has clothing underneath and begins working the charcoal over his armor, working it till his armor is black also. Florin plans to stay away till his armor is completely blackened for now, helmet, shield, breast plate and all and then lays it to the side. (Concentration:25 *natural 20* Don't know if I needed a Con check or anything to allow Florin to stay awake long if so I rolled a 6.)
(OOC:Sorry for so many actions in my post. I figure this will get Florin by till morning. Eventually he will have to go inside and sleep or sleep infront of the door. lol)
Syr Tuesday May 18th, 2004 2:40:36 AM
Syr hears Xenia's words goes away feeling a little better. As she gives him a hug, he closes his eyes and rests for a moment. Thinking to himself that that is a great approach he heads upstairs with a more positive attitude.
With a parting shot to Wynn, "Count yourself lucky, these kids are great, they don't make any noise next to Bralin's snoring!" He bounces up the remainder of the stairs with a smile on his face.
The Morning After (Still Sick DM MikeK) Wednesday May 19th, 2004 10:07:44 AM
Like all nights do, this one eventually passes. Exhaustion and depression have overtaken all, and the early dawn of sleep gives way to the bustle of mid morning preparations.
It quickly becomes obvious that the apartment cannot support this many occupants. Especially in the area of bathrooms. Syr catches a couple enterprising 5 year olds utilizing the side garden.
A messenger arrives mid-morning for Tionel, and relates that Lady Firiona will be able to arrive the next day to see the orphanage.
But the question of the morning is definitely, Where are we going to put these kids?
Angus d20+7=22 Wednesday May 19th, 2004 1:12:28 PM
Angus wakes up refreshed and full of spell potential. Angus thinks to himself, that was much to long to be that low on spells, and gives an internal shiver.
Angus goes downstairs and sees all of the kids milling about with nothing to do, so he takes out his silver flute and begins playing for the convenient audience (perform 22). All of the melancoly and doom from Angus's performance yesterday are gone, replaced by an uplifting piece. Angus moves through the gathering of children, and attempts to get them to dance and a way to chnage their mood.
After the performance, Angus gathers with Xenia, Syr and Wynn. "Do we need to perform some sort of low key information gathering of our own, and find out what we can about the fire and the Anvil Heart gang? I think we should, but not alone, as I am sure they are watching us."
Angus approaches Florin with a much clearer head now that it is full of spells. "Florin, should we report this incident and what Gordo has told us to the authorities?" Angus notices the blacken armor. "Are you going somewhere tonight Florin? I trust not alone."
Angus will introduce Gordo to Lang and Sunshine. "Lang this is our old friend Gordo. Protector of children and Sorcerers when the need has arisen."
Lang Wednesday May 19th, 2004 4:27:07 PM
Lang awakes in the garden with Sunshine. He digs into his backpack and gives Sunshine some food and water. He then goes through his routine to get his spell back (Speak with Animals).
Lang then wanders inside to see about helping with breakfast for all the kids. He will shake Gordo's hand when he is introduced to him by Angus.
He will then ask, "What is our next step?"
Florin Jadenth Wednesday May 19th, 2004 8:03:59 PM
Florin stretches after his small sleep, most likely outside. before he can do much more he notices Angus and listens to his questions, "I have only a few simple plans at the moment. First We'll report this incident to the guard. I don't think it will do any good but it's worth a try."
Florin slowly works his armor and gets it on and then straps on his longsword before walking into the apartment. He hopes the children don't react badly to his once blusish colored armor now being completely black. Florin glances around abit and then walks over to Xenia and gives her the money from the anvil heart battle back inless he paid it to Happy for the supplies.
He also tries to get everyones attention of the group and speaks to them, "If Xenia would I like her to come with me to report this to the city guard. It may not help but it will atleast be reported in more detail then they have most likely." Florin glances to Tionel, "Your druid friends lived nicely. If you can talk to them today then please try to find out if they can help with some housing for some of the kids atleast. I also would be happy if you could find out if the flowers can be somehow used to make a poison. Like to coat weapons or anything with."
Florin turns to move to the door now, making sure he is far enough away from any kids before sliding his longsword from it's sheath. The blade still has a hint of the ash from the burnt orphanage on it. To this Florin pulls out a small bottle and pours from it a black liquid which he smears onto the blade and waits a few mins till the liquid takes hold to the blade before sheathing his long sword again.
(OOC:MikeK, please let me know when the meeting day Florin tried to set is also so I can make sure to have Florin showup at the GG.)
Xenia (HP 21/23) Wednesday May 19th, 2004 10:26:28 PM
Xenia wakes early again. The light of the new day lights the windows with the faint glow of predawn. The dark rogue yawns and stretches, a yawn that is cut short by a sharp pain in her side. Yesterday catching up with her today. Must be why she's still kind of sleepy and unfocused. That and the fact that she hasn't had her morning kaffe yet.
The bedroll is soft against her cheek, and Xenia remembers that it's Wynn's. The thought brings a sleepy smile to her face. And then she remembers the kids that must be sleeping all over the apartment. They'd be waking soon. She'd have to act fast to avert what will be most certain misery and doom. The red-headed rogue rolls from the chair to the floor in one fluid motion. In but a moment more, she is sprinting up the stairs. Plenty of time. She's alone. In the bathroom. And there's plenty of time.
A quick but warm bath does wonders, washing away the sweat, the blood, and the lake water of the previous day. She feels fresh and relaxed. A quick dart across the hall wrapped in a large fluffy towel, and she's in her room. She changes into the beautiful silk outfit that Florin had bought for her, and makes her way downstairs to make some kaffe.
She takes a steaming mug and walks out to the garden. There she sees Lang, and asks him if he'd like a cup. Back inside, she throws her arms around Gordo, welcoming the big lug back. She finds Kyria and gives her a kiss on the forehead as the little blonde girl wakes and yawns. She sits with her until Florin asks her to got to the city guard and help him report.
"Sure, ok," she replies. But I hope that's not going to spread us too thin. We need to be here to take care of the kids. I mean, they need someone here for them. Not just to protect them or to watch them. But, I mean, you know, just to be with them." And she reaches an arm around Kyria's shoulders and pulls her close.
Xenia looks around the room at all of the children. All just waking up. Where are they all going to stay? she thinks. They have to have room to play, and just be kids.
"Gordo, could you help the kids with some training today?" she asks. "It would really help if they knew some basics. You know, like, how to fall. Some basic rolls. Things like that. That would always be useful."
Then she gets an idea. "Hey, Florin? Do you think the kids could stay at the temple? They train kids there, right? Do you think they'd take them in? At least some of them?"
Wynn Thursday May 20th, 2004 12:35:49 AM
When there's a knock on the door, Wynn jumps to his feet, startled out of a dreamless sleep. He heaves a sigh of relief when it's just Florin with the goods donated by 'Happy and Daphne'. The bard helps the paladin unload the food, bedding, and other supplies. By the time they're done, some of the kids are getting up, and the regular inhabitants of the apartment are starting to move around.
Wynn listens to Angus' suggestions and nods in agreement. When the messenger arrives, Wynn listens with interest. "Maybe this lady Firiona would have some suggestions?" Wynn plays thoughfully with his small beard, then volunteers, "what these kids really need is to spend some time outside this city, like Xenia said last night. Maybe some rich merchant or nobleman would give over his estate to the orphans until the orphanage is rebuilt?"
When Xenia walks by with her mug in hand, Wynn grins sheepishly at her, and says, "mmmm, that sure smells good!"
Syr Thursday May 20th, 2004 1:56:03 AM
The elf spends the morning hours catching up on sleep before heading downstairs to join the others.
(Guys: Not sure of my status with a computer for a few days. I have to pick up a new monitor over the weekend.)
Sunshine (Justin Webber) Thursday May 20th, 2004 4:56:24 AM
(OOC:Sorry for missing last post for Sunshine.)
Sunshine eats the food and drinks the water given. Otherwise he sits and watches the morning activites as his tail wags. He barks at Lang and gives a doggy grin to sign he could use a walk after while.
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