Home Again, Home Again -- DM Donna d20=20 Thursday July 29th, 2004 6:33:43 AM
Milo thanks Lian for the offer. The halfling responds to Olana's farewell with a hug of his own, pausing as he looks into her face. For a moment, it seems as though there is something else he wants to say...but then he just smiles and assures Olana that he'll be very, very careful.
And then the rogue is gone.
K'Nara helps to pack up the considerable haul that the Talons managed to return from Fae Skiemir with, putting the bulk of it in the cart that Milo and Olana...oops...the cart that Olana would be driving.
Once all other business is settled up, the Emerald Talons make their way back out of Emerald City, towards the Tower of Saryd.
The trip--taken at leisure--takes most of the day, and the Talons reach the area in the late afternoon.
Those of the party who have been to the Tower of Saryd before recognize the circular stone wall, broken in various places and missing its gateway entirely. The squared stone tower appears incredibly ancient and still seems to disappear high up into the sky, even though the Tower has but four levels above ground. Within the 100-foot diameter stone wall is a well-tended green space in the center of which is the imposing Tower.
Well-tended..?
"Looks like the Council did us the favor of some basic land-tending when they were here..." K'Nara points out, nodding to the area inside the stone wall, where the once-overgrown grass and underbrush has been cut back to allow much easier passage to and from the now-visible entry door.
A voice speaks in the Elven language:
"That was not the Council's doing, human...'twas ours."
A pair of people approaches the party and look you all over with caution and curiosity in their eyes. They are both Elves, and must be rather old Elves at that, as you can actually see crow's feet around their eyes. One is a man and the other a woman, dressed in Elvish working clothes--clothing suitable to do gardening and such in.
It is the woman (she is blue-eyed, smiling and has braided brown hair with the occasional streak of silvery-gray in it) who speaks, again in Elven:
"Who are you that you approach the Tower of Saryd so boldly..? Know you not that this is hallowed ground to the Elves of the Culverwood?"
The man (darker blue eyes and more gray in his lighter brown hair) grips a quarterstaff in one hand and watches you all rather intently.
Figment Thursday July 29th, 2004 6:55:02 AM
The mage takes the trip without saying much, riding Jux and enjoying a long missed ride. Dressed in his custom made riding leathers he somehow still looks like a mage even though this sort of clothing is not normal for mages. "I'm interested to see what kind of a kitchen this place has. And room for a lab...".
As the elves approach he waits for Ingrge or K'Nara to respond. He simply sits and nods kindly - hoping he is meeting the permanant groundskeepers.
Lian Thursday July 29th, 2004 7:03:31 AM
The elven monk answers back in the tongue of the Culverwood elves, "I am Lian Siannodel, of the Emerald Talons. I originally come from the monastery some distance in THAT direction. It is my pleasure to meet you... you are...?" He meets the mans gaze with a slight grin and a brief bow.
Falin d20+1=16 Thursday July 29th, 2004 8:27:46 AM
As the elves approach, Falin walks around to the side of the group so he has a clear line of sight in case anything should happen.
As the whithered elves wait for an answer Falin scans the area for anything else that could possibly be a threat. (OCC: Spot 16)
Ingrge Thursday July 29th, 2004 9:23:51 AM
Riding along the road to the tower, Ingrge seems lost in thought, but in reality he is just day dreaming and realizing that he has had no time to much of that in the recent years. As they approach the Tower, he looks up at the tower still amazed by the deceptivness of the building itself.
When approached by the pair of eldr elves, He dismounts from Moon Shadow and sketches a moderatly dep bow.
My name is Ingrge Nightseer, elders. These with me are mycompanions and family, The Emerald Talons. The tower has allowed us entry once before and now that the Council has bequeathed itto us for our home I would expect it would let us enter now as well.
Athalorn Thursday July 29th, 2004 11:18:51 AM
The druid and Glannath travel with the Talons overhead, as Eagles lifted by the warm currents of the earth. Athalorn enjoys the warming rays on his wings, and when he arrives at the tower, remains in Eagle form, circling the group overhead, Glannath accompanying him.
OOC: Do I have any volunteers to rp Glannath? I shall keep rping him until I do so.
Brother Bertram Thursday July 29th, 2004 1:03:57 PM
As he gazed upon this tower for the first time, Bertram tsked at the sad shape of the gates and walls. Truly there would be much to do to restore the magnificent edifice. Work fit for a dwarf. Even as looked over thier new home the elves appear. He listens to thier words and keeps an eye out for any other suprises.
Olana Thursday July 29th, 2004 9:35:42 PM
Olana thanks Gunther and K'Nara for help loading up the wagon, and on the journey up to the Tower she gives Figment a sideways glance. A lab? She has a vision of all the Tower windows blowing out, one evening, after a rather exuberant spell attempt. The thought makes her giggle.
On arrival at the Tower, she jumps down from the wagon and gives the elven couple a formal bow. "Hello, I'm Olana, also of the Talons and Culverwood" she says in elven, accompanying the greeting with one of her dazzling smiles.
She then waves up at the two eagles circling in the sky.
Figment Friday July 30th, 2004 6:18:52 AM
The mage clears his throat a bit "The scroll...?".
Gunther Friday July 30th, 2004 10:30:12 AM
Since he doesn't have a horse, Gunther rides with Olana in the cart. At the approach of the elves, Gunther sighs. No, he shouldn't have expected it to be that easy... Looking like things are well under control, Gunther stays where he is while the others do the negotiating. He does position himself so that he can draw his weapon if things go south, but he doubts they will.
Introductions All Around -- DM Donna Friday July 30th, 2004 7:57:12 PM
K'Nara dismounts from Poki, approaching the wary old couple and then executes an intricate, graceful bow of Elven formality.
"Goodsir, dearlady...we are, as my colleagues here have stated, the Emerald Talons, champions of the Culverwood and all who dwell within it. The Elven Council of the Culverwood has graciously deeded us the ancient Tower of Saryd and its lands, and we are here to see our new home." the human bladesinger says in Elven. "I am K'Nara Illutu, daughter of Lowell and Jocelyn. Tell me, if you please...is it you we must thank for the upkeep of the area? I had thought the first time we entered the Tower that it was actually rather approachable for a place that was supposed to have been abandonned for about three hundred years or so."
The couple exchanges glances, and the woman's smile--while a bit nervous before--now becomes more genuine and welcoming.
"The Council informed us that you all would be coming, K'Nara of the Emerald Talons," the lady elf says in Common, "And you are quite astute--my dear husband has been responsible for maintaining the grounds hereabouts...and rather clever he was going about it, too--keeping the towergrounds proper just wild enough to appear overgrown and not worth investigating while simultaneously making sure the Tower would still be usable by those who are meant to use it." Here the male elf sniffs loudly and nods.
"You're welcome." he says succinctly.
"I'm Rainara Themol," the female introduces herself, "And this is my husband, Rethus. He's a dab hand at the garden, though I've not heard him put more than two words together at a time in nigh on two centuries."
"Master Themol," K'Nara acknowledges with another bow, and does the same for his wife, "Mistress Themol. We appreciate your kindness."
"Actually, Miss K'Nara," Rainara says, "We would like to stay on here--we live a little ways into the forest that-a-way..." The elderly Elf nods in the direction she's speaking of, "...we've done our duty to the Tower these past hundred years...but it would be nice to be able to have the odd coin to go to Emerald City with every now and then. Rethus could tend the garden proper...and I'd be happy to cook for you all."
K'Nara looks around at the group.
"What do you all think, Talons..?" she asks. "I have no talent for making palatable food--only for being able to survive from what I can scrounge on occasion...and my mother has been more than happy to point out there's a BIG difference between mere survival and actually enjoying the food you eat." She grins, her hazel eyes sparkling merrily.
"And I claim no partiality to the tending of plants, either--sorry to say, Athalorn..." K'Nara adds for the benefit of the flying druid.
"So I put it to you all, my friends: shall we have Rethus and Rainara Themol to stay on as Tower staff..?"
Lian Friday July 30th, 2004 11:25:12 PM
The monk grins, with a mischevious look in his eye, then raises an eyebrow. In elven. "Is there going to be a turndown service for us too?" He sees the looks the group give him. "Um, I mean, it would be my pleasure to have these fine people stay on at the Tower. They've earned it."
In elven, turning to K'Nara, "We should pay them as well as shelter them. I suggest they remain in their present room or rooms."
He approaches the man and woman, bows, then extends a hand in Friendship. "You may call me Lian, if you like."
The monk adds, in elven, "We may be the Masters of the Tower, but remember, we are not the masters of you. You master only what you are."
He walks over to K'Nara and leans in to whisper, "Seems they love the Tower. Should we have the Council add them on as partial owners as well?"
Falin Saturday July 31st, 2004 3:07:16 AM
"I agree with Lian. If they wish to stay then I think we should oblige them along with some coin for their services."
Athalorn Saturday July 31st, 2004 3:51:50 AM
Still circling overhead, Athalorn the Eagle swoops low and lands on an aperture of the tower, in sight of the Talons. Then, listening to the conversation, he disappears out of sight behind the structure. Shortly thereafter, the tall human appears, still finding his land legs.
In elven, he speaks. "I am Athalorn of the Culverwood. I thank you for tending to the grounds here so well."
Figment Saturday July 31st, 2004 7:51:44 AM
The mage smiles as the conversation turns to food. "I think it is a wonderful idea for you to continue your work here. You have done a wonderful job and it would be very welcome for you to continue. I am Figment the mage - and I am also a master chef. Gourmet food is my specialty. I'd love to share with you what I know - and to help too whenI can... So can you show us around?".
Ingrge Saturday July 31st, 2004 5:36:31 PM
I believe we would be honored to have you stay on with us. Now I hate to rush things but we were all up all night and with the exception of our fine upstanding monk, none of us got much rest.
Gunther Saturday July 31st, 2004 10:29:52 PM
The bulky warrior sighs as K'nara and Lian chat away in the Elven tongue. One day I'll really have to learn that language. he thinks to himself. Gunther laughs out loud at his private thought, imagining how Elven would sound from a tongue that was accustomed to speaking Orcish.
When asked his opinion, Gunther smiles warmly. "Vell, if tings keep on de vay dey have since I joined you, ve von't be lounging around dis place for long. Somevon's got to vatch de place vhill vere gone!" Gunther chuckles...suddenly in a very good mood as the sun warms the back of his armor. He wonders what the rooms inside will be like. Then he ponders the surrounding woodlands and wonders whether he might one day find himself a pet out there. He had been feeling awfully lonely lately...
A Bigger, More Happy Family -- DM Donna Sunday August 1st, 2004 5:44:15 PM
(OOC: this is a transitional post--the PCs can react to it or comment if they want to, but the next "official" post will be made tomorrow at my usual time.)
K'Nara rubs her chin as she considers Lian's question...then she turns to the Themol couple.
"As you have both been looking after the Tower for a century or so, do you believe that you two ought to have ownership of the place as well...?" she asks them in Elven. Both elves look positively thunderstruck. Then Rainara looks to her husband, who ponders a moment, idly scratching the top of one ear. Then he says (again in Elven):
"Not really."
"I agree with my husband," Rainara says in Common, "Looking after the Tower was really something for Rethus and I to do since the last of our children had grown, and it helped us to feel useful. We don't feel that such duty is one that entitles us to ownership...besides, the Council did ask us if we'd be offended with their intentions of awarding your brave group with the Tower, and we answered them then that we were not. We are both, however, very thankful and pleased that you are kind enough to ask, Mistress K'Nara." Rethus nods.
"Pleased. Thankful." he echoes sincerely.
"The consensus of the Emerald Talons, then," K'Nara tells them, "Is for us to accept your most generous offer to continue to look after the Tower and to even cook for us." The redheaded warrior grinned. "I look forward to sampling your fare, dearlady."
"I don't think I have the skills of a gourmet chef," Rainara insists, blushing a bit and acknowledging Figment, "But I have had the last two hundred and fifty-odd years to acquire a small bit of experience with the local herbs, vegetables and animals to perhaps make a palatable meal or two."
"Best stew!" Rethus puts forward with emphasis.
"We can show you the interior of the Tower," Rainara, "Although I must admit that Rethus and I have only seen the ground floor so far...we never had reason to enter the Tower before that group from the Council came and cleared out the Tower, and were only allowed to see that floor when they had gotten finished."
Lian Sunday August 1st, 2004 6:37:54 PM
To Rainara Lian answers in elven, "Well, anything has to be better than the crap we eat on the road... sorry Fig, but it is often I long for a simple plain meal." The monk smiles sheepishly at the mage, hoping he doesn't get fried.
The Nickel Tour -- DM Donna Monday August 2nd, 2004 6:35:29 AM
"Then we can all see the new, improved Tower together, I should think." K'Nara replies to Rainara. The elderly woman smiles and nods.
"This way, then." she invites the Talons. Rethus, however, turns away from the Tower and begins working on some plants in one of the inside corners of the broken wall that surrounds the stronghold.
"Rethus..." explains Rainara as she approaches the ancient, heavily-carved wooden entry door, "...was never too keen on being indoors whenever he truly doesn't have to be. I can tell you now that you will almost always see him on the grounds exclusively." Rainara grasps the doorknob and pushes the portal open.
Rainara explains that, apparently, the ambient magic of the Culverwood makes the Tower appear a LOT more imposing on the outside than it it is from the inside...outside, the Tower appears to be too tall for anyone on the ground to see the top of the Tower. Actually, the tower is square--40 ft on each side--and 120 ft tall. The door everyone is entering through is actually in the eastern corner on the north wall of the 40-foot-square, mostly-open ground floor.
This main floor is furnished--there is a staircase that runs west along the north wall and over the kitchen. It ends in a door. The food preparation area (the kitchen) is walled off and not entirely visible unless someone goes over to the arched open doorway between it and the dining area it faces.
There is a dining area along the east wall and a sitting area in front of the fireplace located on the southern half of the west wall. The dining area is defined by an oval dining table surrounded by 12 wooden stools. There is a wooden bench and four wooden chairs around the fireplace. There is what appears to be a ten-foot wide, five-foot high picture window in the middle of the south wall.
"That's a fine piece of magic by one of the Council members." Rainara points out the sunny scene overlooking the Culverwood. "He made the stones there transparent, but only from the inside. Outside it still looks like stone--and if you go over and stand within at least three feet of the window..." Here the elderly Elf lady demonstrates as she explains, "...you concentrate on the window, and then wave your hand like this--" Rainara's slender hand drops down in a deliberate arc...and the "window" changes from being transparent to being stone at the same rate of speed. "--and it's like drawing a curtain! Think again and go the other way--" Again the Elf demonstrates, "--and...there you are! All nice and sunny again!" The window reappears again. "The Council Lord thought the Tower was rather dark without this, so he just zapped it in."
"Not your usual military feature..." K'Nara agrees, smiling, "...but one we can appreciate, nonetheless." The leader of the Talons strides into the middle of the room, looking about.
"Where to next..? The kitchen..? Check out upstairs..? Or see if that portal downstairs truly IS shut down...?" K'Nara asks the others.
(OOC: AOL is giving me fits--I can't seem to post the map picture on my web page [yet], but I'll see about sending everyone a BMP or JPG of the floorplans.)
Athalorn Monday August 2nd, 2004 11:56:40 AM
The druid looks around the tower with the others, and when K'Nara speaks he leaves - also preferring the open air to the roof of the tower. "Excuse me, all, but I will go and look around the grounds if you don't mind me leaving your company."
He joins Rethus outside, and speaks again in Elven to the groundsman. "I hope you don't mind, my friend, if I look around the grounds. I was never one for being couped up indoors when I could avoid it."
Olana Monday August 2nd, 2004 12:50:34 PM
Olana has no objection whatsoever about letting the elves stay on as custodians, and letting them have some coin for it.
While the others move on in, she starts to unload the wagon, and asks Rethus where it would be best to keep the horses. Then, rummaging and finding the painting, she unrolls it. "We've found somewhere to live," she tells it. "What do you think?"
Ingrge Monday August 2nd, 2004 5:56:23 PM
Looking around for somewhere to put the horses up, but not seeing anything like a barn or stable, Ingrge whispers something to Moonshadow, removes his little bit of tack and releases him in the walled area.
"Olana, just let him wander I doubt he wil go far."
Figment Monday August 2nd, 2004 6:26:45 PM
The mage tries not to let Lians comment spoil his mood. At least he was apologetic as well as brutally honest. He smiles to the elven woman. "I truly look forward to enjoying your meals. It sounds like I've much to learn from one as accomplished as you. Perhaps we could learn together?".
As they take the tour the mage carefully observes the magic window. He heads up to the higher floors and down to the basement and carefully looks for any other gifts of magic that may or may not be intentional.
Brother Bertram Monday August 2nd, 2004 9:54:23 PM
Bertram walks around with the others admiring thier new residence.
Gunther Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 12:04:31 AM
The warrior sighs as various Talons continue to converse in Elven. He knew it was unintentional, but sometimes it was frustrating...but then isn't that what Grell had taught him about Elves? Gunther shakes his head...no, these were not like the Elves Grell used to tell him about...arrogant, self-righteous, self-centered. Besides, hadn't he long ago abandoned most of his father's way of thinking? The man sighs deeply...some prejudices were hard to dismiss. No...these new companions of his were different. He had spilled blood along side with them, and that, above all other things could tell you who a person really was. Gunther grins at K'nara's suggestion of checking out the portal. "Vell, ve should make absolute certain dat de place is secure before ve get too comfortable, shouldn't ve?"
Lian Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 12:27:56 AM
Lian realizes, at this point, not everyone is in the conversation. IN COMMON> "Oh, I apologize for my and our manners Gunther, can't you speak elven? No matter. Well, that shall have to be remedied. Maybe a little dwarven lesson by Bertram would be fun. I'd sit in as well." He smiles. "Draconic. That is a fasinating language too. Sylvan is a bit obscure, but perhaps I can help with that. What do you think my warrior friend??" He waits for the large mans answer.
"Yes, let us secure the Tower."
Falin Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 2:42:24 AM
Falin proceedes downstairs to check out the portal. "Remind me please what the portal was here for originally. I have been gone for so long I seem to have misplaced it in my mind."
Lucia Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 2:44:20 AM
* Well, I like this. I can tell you feel good to have someplace to call home K'nara. I think you should have rested more after your last ordeal. Maybe you will take some time getting used to your new accomodations and rest.*
Touring the Tower (Still) -- DM Donna Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 6:51:23 AM OUTSIDE, in the northern courtyard/garden: Rethus nods at Athalorn, the elderly elf's face reflecting his agreement with the druid's sentiments. Rethus proudly points out a fruitful set of blackberry bushes.
Olana's sudden consultation with the magic painting causes Valor Jlacathra to be jolted out of the catnap he had been indulging in, snorting and blustering as he jerks awake.
"...hmm...huh? Why, yes, yes--I agree that the Silkwood District needs a new Cantrip Ordinance..." the old Elven wizard blinks and looks around, then realizes it was Olana who had woken him up. "Oh, it's you...what's that you say? A new home? Well, well, well--hold me up--let me take a good look around, then...I can only hope that this will be a decent mansion or palace and not just some thatched hovel with a leaky roof..."
Ingrge's comment about letting the horses loose in the nominally-enclosed courtyard gets Rethus' attention. The handyelf comes over and nods at the younger Elf's words.
"No stable." Rethus confirms. Eyeing the load in Olana's cart, however, the canny old Elf adds: "Not yet."
INSIDE, with Rainara: K'Nara, Lian, Gunther, Brother Bertram and Falin follow Rainara as she leads them through the kitchen and down the stairs to the basement level, which is lit with a few well-placed Light spells. There is a well in the center of the area, and there are several bins and semi-walled areas that can obviously be used for storage of foods and sundries. Everyone in the basement must roll a Spot check versus DC15 to notice something odd with that large bin in the southwest corner of the basement.
INSIDE, on the upper level: Figment, having chosen to go upstairs first, idly notes that the construction of the Tower is exceptional--no doubt the Elves responsible for its construction got some of their Dwarven allies to do the outstanding stonework...while other Elven craftspeople constructed the stairs, doors and interior walls of the place.
On this upper floor of the Tower, Figment finds himself in a five-foot-wide passage that leads along the north wall (which is occasionally puncuated with special arrow-slit windows. This hallway branches off southward once before continuing on westward for a bit and turning south again. Approaching the first turn-off, Figment suddenly finds himself face-to-face with an elven archer that has an arrow pointed directly at the spellcaster's heart!
"Who art thou who wouldst invade the Tower of Saryd during Commander Thauramec Brusse's watch???" demands the Elf in a strange dialect of the Elven language.
Figment must make a Spot check versus DC10 to notice that this Elf is slightly transparent...and wearing armor that is about 300 years out of date. If he makes the Spot check, he adds a bonus +2 to his Knowledge check versus DC10 to recall the Council's admission about a particular ghost that had not been exorcised from the Tower.
Gunther d20+1=9 Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 8:59:09 AM
Gunther smiles at Lian as he taps his head. "Vell, I'm not sure how much I can store up dere, but I'll give anyting a try vonce."
The warrior takes a look around the room, but all he sees is...well bunches of boxes and bins.
Athalorn Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 11:05:51 AM
The druid gladly tries some of the blackberries when shown them by Rethus, then nods his agreement that they are indeed fine. He looks around the grounds some more, admiring the fine balance between overgrowth and garden. He sees Glannath perched in a tree in the garden, and smiles at his own friend. The eagle had started sleeping more than he used to. Perhaps he was tired of travelling.
COntent to be in the open air so close to his home, Athalorn sits down amongst some of the longer grass and lets his thoughts drift.
OOC: I may struggle to post for the rest of this week - although I will try my hardest. I am going to Scotland and their internet access is sporadic at best. If I miss anything please post for Athalorn and Glannath.
Olana Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 12:07:42 PM
Olana blinks, then quickly remembers the irascible manner of the old chap in the painting. "Okay, well hang on a moment, then," she says and rolls her eyes toward Ingrge, Athalorn and Rethus.
She removes the tack and harness from the carthorse so it can roam, then wanders inside, holding the painting in such a manner that its occupant can see whats going on, heading toward the basement where she can hear the others.
Lian d20+13=29 Tuesday August 3rd, 2004 7:00:21 PM
OOC: Enjoy Scotland Athalorn! I loved it last year when I went!!
(Spot check 29) The monk stops paying any attention what is going on around him and focuses on the large bin on the southwest wall. He defensively walks over toward the bin to get a closer look, though his elven eyes are still strong(low-light vision), his mind can't quite grasp what it is he's looking at.
Falin d20+1=21 Wednesday August 4th, 2004 2:40:43 AM
Falin scans the area at the bottom of the stairs as they decend. As his eyes scan across the well his attention is diverted to a bin over in the corner. Unable to discern what it is exactly that caught his eye he advances to investigate.
OCC: My computer crashed so I though he had a +1 to his spot check, but I rolled a natural 20 anyway.
Brother Bertram d20=11 Wednesday August 4th, 2004 4:29:49 AM
Bertram continues to follow visibly impressed with all that they are shown.
(notices nothing about the bin)
Ingrge Wednesday August 4th, 2004 7:34:05 AM
Leaving Athalorn and Rethus outside, Ingrge heads inside with Olana. Once there He starts up the stairs to see what there is to see.
(OOC - Donna my posting may be a bit sporadic as I am on my Woldian vacation. I wil post when I can as I am also getting ready for school which starts tuesday)
Lian Wednesday August 4th, 2004 2:31:50 PM
The monk slowly approaches the bin in the southwest wall. :)
Figment spot d20+2=10 knowledge d20+2=19 Wednesday August 4th, 2004 6:28:41 PM
After a moment where he wonders if he has just made a huge mistake by separating himself from the rest of the group, Figment ealizes that the figure is not quite right and then quickly recalls that there was a supposed to be a spirit of some sort still inhabiting the tower.
"Ahh, Good Job. Commander! My name is Figmentary of the Emerald Talons. It seems that we will be billeting here with you from now on. Any thing to report?"
Surprises Abound! -- DM Donna Wednesday August 4th, 2004 7:17:15 PM OUTSIDE: Athalorn quickly discovers that Rainara wasn't exaggerating when she claimed that Rethus hasn't put more than two words together in past few decades--the elderly elf literally speaks (so far) in two-word phrases.
INSIDE, in the basement: Olana and Ingrge come into the spacious basement level just in time to see the same thing that Lian has spotted: the large bin in the southwest corner of the basement is slightly askew...upon closer inspection, the three elven-blooded individuals discover that the bin is actually moveable--it seems to have well-hidden casters on the bottom.
"They're all moveable...see..?" Rainara says, rolling another one.
Everyone in the basement level must make another Spot check versus DC16. Those who make it can see that there is a secret door in the floor the bin had been covering.
INSIDE, on the first level of the Tower: The ghostly Brusse blinks in surprise, then--almost grudgingly--lowers his bow and its arrow.
"Thou hast a head on thy shoulders, mage." commends the late warrior. "I am attached to my last command, you see, for I failed in my duty to keep the invading Izen trash from breaching the Tower defenses...now I serve to keep enemies without the walls evermore. Thou, however, wert made known to me by my living brethren, who didst tell me that the Emerald Talons were to be stationed here for the duration." Commander Brusse eyes Figment.
"Thou, then, mayst pass." The ghost turns and begins to march from arrow-slit window to arrow-slit window, stopping and looking out of each one before going to the far turn off and disappearing around the corner.
Figment Wednesday August 4th, 2004 9:30:07 PM
The mage smiles and bows to the elven warrior. "Your vigilance is most appreciated - and your acceptance of our presence.". He continues the inspection.
Gunther d20+1=9 Wednesday August 4th, 2004 11:48:28 PM
The warrior rubs his eyes. Now that it's pointed out to him, he's not sure how he could have missed the casters. Maybe he should have a healer look at his eyes... Gunther takes another look around the room but still manages to see nothing of interest. Oh wait...was that a cask of pickled pigs feet in the corner???? Gunther's mouth begins to water at the thought of the potential delicacy.
Lian Thursday August 5th, 2004 2:17:08 AM
The monk raises an eyebrow and turns to Rainara. "Have you or your husband ever entered here?"
Making Discoveries -- DM Donna d20+1=11 d20=5 d20=16 d20=14 d20=10 Thursday August 5th, 2004 6:10:41 AM OUTSIDE: Athalorn and Rethus more or less discuss how the immediate garden area adjacent to the Tower is going to look.
INSIDE, in the Basement: K'Nara looks over the cleverly designed bins.
"OH--I see--there's a lip on the bottom that makes it look like these things are stationary bins...but the lip is about a quarter-inch or so off the floor, hiding the wheels that are set on the bottoms...hmmm...interesting..." she says, squatting and squinting at the gap that could be easily missed by the unknowing.
Olana's sharp eyes detect the outline of the secret trapdoor in the floor. (OOC: she got the 16 rolled above; it is possible that Ingrge Spotted the door, too--he got the 14 result...if his Spot bonus is high enough to match or beat the DC16, then he sees the secret door, too.)
"No, sir, neither of us has been down here," Rainara answers Lian, "I really only got to see the ground floor--the Council members were busy with removing the unwanted magic here. They told me that they put a few preserved sundries down here and placed rolling bins for the convenience of storing supplies."
Indeed, poking around will reveal not only the barrel of pickled pigs' feet, but also another barrel of salted fish, a couple of small crates of beef jerky and a fist-sized, silvery coated...well, the best way to describe it is a Cornish game hen. The silvery substance has some Elven writing that are the following directions:
"1. Place in middle of large, clear table or similar area. 2. Just add holy water. 3. Serves 12 (dining accessories not included.)"
INSIDE, on the First Floor: Figment sees the ex-Commander go back about his eternal rounds. When he turns his attention back to exploring the floor he is on, he quickly discovers that this particular floor holds a configuration of about five nicely-sized rooms (each is roughly about 12 feet by 18 feet; two of these rooms are actually interior rooms, though, and have NO windows.)
Following the route that he'd seen Brusse take, Figment happens upon a set of stairs leading up to another level.
Olana d20+12=18 d20+11=19 Thursday August 5th, 2004 8:21:09 PM
"Ooh look!" exclaims Olana, "a trap door!"
She crouches a little closer to it. "I wonder is it's an escape route. If it is - we'd better find out where it leads to," she adds, trying to figure out if there might be a trap on the trap door. If there is, she have a crack at fixing it, telling everyone to stand back and rolling up the painting so ol' curmudgeon isn't in the firing line.
SEARCH DC 18 DISABLE DEVICE DC 19
Falin Thursday August 5th, 2004 9:04:24 PM
"That door was hidden really well. I too wonder where it goes."
Figment Thursday August 5th, 2004 9:17:25 PM
The mage admires the rooms as he walks through them. As he gets to the stairs he shrugs and begins climbing to the next level.
Gunther Thursday August 5th, 2004 10:08:55 PM
His craving getting the better of him, Gunther searches the for a suitable tool to remove the lid of the cask. Finally pulling a dagger from his belt, the warrior quickly removes the lid, and is busily munching on feet while Olana makes her discovery. "Mmmmph..." Gunther manages through lips covered in pig's feet juice. He continues to stuff his face as the ranger attempts to disarm any traps that might be found.
Brother Bertram Friday August 6th, 2004 4:33:41 AM
Bertram kicks himself for having missed the trap door and watches as the Talons begin exploring.
Lian Friday August 6th, 2004 6:20:37 AM
The monk replies to Rainara's answer with a nod.
"I am extremely curious about this passage and trap door, but let us find our resident Gourmet and have him join us below." Lian refers to Figment.
The monk looks anxious for a good old fashioned delve, though it's odd that an elf would be excited about such a thing. Perhaps he's just in need of a simple adventure.
"Then after we may find time to go shopping and spend the Fae Skemir booty." He smiles. "I wish Milo was here for this."
Ingrge d20+8=16 Friday August 6th, 2004 7:43:40 AM
Ingrge too spots the trap door and points it out the others as Olana anounces the same door. With a rare smile flitting across his lips, Ingrge agrees with her. Yes, I expect that this is the entry to the towers bolt hole. I expect it probably comes out somewhere on the outside of the wall, but I could be wrong.
What IS this...the Discovery Channel..? -- DM Donna Friday August 6th, 2004 4:43:18 PM OUTSIDE: Athalorn manages to get Rethus to talk about the Elf's plans for the garden now that the Tower will again have living beings occupying it. While nobody was in the Tower, Rethus didn't wish to encourage trespasssers and so deliberately let most of the plants grow unchecked for the most part. Rethus will not be changing the growth much--but it will soon start looking more cultivated and less overgrown.
INSIDE, in the basement: Rainara sees that Gunther couldn't wait until the proper time to have a snack, and so the efficient Elf produces a large handerkerchief and hands it to the warrior with one eyebrow quirked.
"Well, not the palace I'd been hoping for," Valor Jlacathra says as he's carried into the Tower and down the steps, "But I know good, old-fashioned Dwarven-commissioned stonework when I see it! It's the Tower of Saryd, isn't it? Hee hee! Can't fool ol' Valor, y'know! Spider webs??? Where is housekeeping when you need them? It's dark down here--someone whip up a Light--was that a rat? What? NO FOUNTAIN? You have to draw water by..." here he gasps, "...by HAND??? Who's the landlord? I'll turn him into a slug! I'll--"
Here Olana rolls up the canvas and Valor Jlacathra is silent again...thank goodness!
As everyone carefully watches, Olana checks the trap door and determines that there are no traps rigged to it. Just as she finishes checking--and just when Lian suggests that perhaps Figment and Athalorn should join them--Olana is nearly knocked over by the secret trapdoor suddenly flying open!
Out of the hole pop Rethus and Athalorn.
"Rethus was showing me a secret passage into the Tower he found only a few days ago." Athalorn explains. "There's a big tree near his cottage that has an opening hidden amongst its giant roots." the druid looks around at the others in the basement. "Have we interrupted something..?"
INSIDE, on the second floor of the Tower: Figment continues his explorations: the second floor consists of a hallway, three more living / bedrooms, what was and is obviously a mages workroom, and another large room that was once used as an armory / barracks room. Again at the end of the hall is a staircase that goes up. These stairs end at a trap door.
Brusse is nowhere around.
Brother Bertram Friday August 6th, 2004 10:19:24 PM
Bertram runs his hands over the stone from time to time smiling to himself, revelling in the feel of old stonework. He truly cannot wait to get settled in.
Lian Saturday August 7th, 2004 6:18:46 AM
Lian hears the painting of Valor. He turns slowly and raises an eyebrow to him. "Seems this basement may have found its first 'new' decoration in a hundred years. What do you think Olana?! A painting might look grand here, wouldn't you say?"
Figment Saturday August 7th, 2004 8:35:01 AM
The mage smiles as he sees what he was looking for. He sets his stuff down in the room nearest the workroom - hopefully the largest with plenty of shelf space and tables. He reviews the mage's workroom carefully - and then he goes up and opens the trap door to the next level.
Gunther Sunday August 8th, 2004 10:19:54 PM
Taking the offered handerkerchief, Gunther wipes some pigs feet goo off his face, an almost childish look of guilt on his face. Though when Rainara turns around he quickly pops another foot into his mouth...for the road so to speak. Then, his craving being satisfied for the moment, Gunther puts the lid back on the cask. Smiling at the others, he ponders out loud. "Vell, should ve take a look at de rooms and sort dem out? Or is it first come, first serve?" Gunther chuckles as he heads over to the stairs.
Olana Monday August 9th, 2004 1:32:39 AM
Olana yells - "Oh!!" - and jumps back as Athalorn and the old elf appear. "We were right!" she adds to Ingrge.
She looks a little shocked at Lian's suggestion also, although it does bring a smile to her face. "We can't leave him down in the basement!" she grins. "Imagine the complaints."
If they're done downstairs, then she'll go up, and start to explore, unrolling Valor so he gets the tour, too.
The Tower Tour Continues -- DM Donna Monday August 9th, 2004 5:23:35 AM In the basement: Rethus, upon hearing that the group intends to go back up into the Tower, says:
"Goin' back." He immediately exits via the passage he entered.
Rainara sighs.
"Never could keep him indoors for too long." she tells the group as she heads back to the stairs that lead upwards.
Following the stairs up, the rest of the group most easily discovers the room layouts as Figment has: the first floor above the main floor has five rooms that are supposed to be suitable for use as living quarters.
"We may want to spring for some rehab work," K'Nara points out the two windowless rooms, "I know that I don't feel comfortable knowing that not all the future bedrooms have their own possible escape route in case of fire or something."
On the second floor: Figment finds that he has to put his shoulder into thrusting the trap door up and open. (OOC: make a Strength check versus DC15 to force open the heavy wood door.)
Figment d20=11 d20=20 Monday August 9th, 2004 5:37:32 AM
The mage gives the door a shove to no avail (STR DC 11). Not wanting to feel lik too much of a wimp he really lets into it and viola, it moves. He immediately begins thinking of a spell he can put on it permanantly.
Falin Monday August 9th, 2004 8:28:54 AM
Falin ponders K'nara's statement for a moment. "But the enemy also has no way to get into our bedrooms should there be an attack."
Athalorn Monday August 9th, 2004 2:08:45 PM
Enthused at the passageway, the druid makes a hasty retreat behind Rethus, following the old elf back into the gardens. For a building of stone this wasn't at all bad. And finally - he had someone to whom he could talk about the aesthetic quality of ivy and the healing properties of wormroot without provoking a yawn.
ooc: Back now - thanks for looking after Athalorn. Scotland was breathtaking ! Simon
Gunther Monday August 9th, 2004 3:59:17 PM
The warrior fallows along with the others taking in the sights of the castle.
Lian Monday August 9th, 2004 4:31:17 PM
Lian follows the group. He looks about to take in all the details of the tower.
He looks at Falin, "Perhaps not all of rooms should be on the same floor? I'll happily take the parapit."
OOC- Simon, I'm glad you liked Scotland!
Brother Bertram Monday August 9th, 2004 10:01:16 PM
Bertram lets the others decide where they want to dwell, just happy to be near stone again, and more importantly, to once again have a home.
Olana Tuesday August 10th, 2004 1:40:31 AM
Olana runs up the stairs laughing, fully prepared to fight Lian and Falin for a window room.
"Figment! We're coming up!"
((WB Simon!))
Falin Tuesday August 10th, 2004 2:43:00 AM
Gazing upwards seemingly through all of the floors above, "If we could come up with some type of light covering on the roof such as a more permanent tent I would be happy living up there."
Th-th-th-th-That's All, Folks! -- DM Donna Tuesday August 10th, 2004 6:26:50 AM Outside, on the parapet of the Tower: Figment sees that age and weather have made the trapdoor to the rooftop of the Tower a bit more swollen than it ought to be. Probably something that should be addressed in the regular maintainence of the place.
The spellcaster looks around him, he notes that this level is an open battlement level. There are three crenellations on each side and a 20 foot tall small tower at each corner. On the side nearest the road there is an old ballista. Figment must roll an Intelligence check vs DC10 to see that the ballista--neither having been used nor protected for decades--is in need of replacement. (If you have any Craft Weapons skill, you can add that bonus to the roll as well.) Figment must also make a Listen check vs DC13 to hear Olana's voice say something about coming up.
Brusse, by the way, still is not in sight.
Inside, on the stairs up to the second living level: The redheaded leader of the Emerald Talons nods at Falin's statement.
"You have a point." K'Nara conceded as the group trouped up the stairs, "However, I am more concerned with the possible need to have to get OUT quickly than with a possible invasion from without the Tower."
On the second living level, it's easy to see that there are more rooms that can be used as quarters, as well as a nicely-sized magic laboratory ("I bet Figment calls dibbies on the room next to THIS one!" K'Nara says with a chuckle and a twinkle in her hazel eyes) and another comparably-sized room.
"The interior walls are merely partitions--wood that can be rearranged so that the layout can suit us better." K'Nara says, pointing out the construction. "Again...I'm thinking we should probably rehab this place just a bit. As it is now, I can see only retaining the lab and the room next to it the way that they currently are. Everything else needs to be laid out in a more efficient manner."
"Got quite the head on her shoulders..." approves Valor from within his painting, "...for a mere human. The whole place needs work! And staff--lots of staff! I couldn't possibly consider living in such a place without at least one personal chef, a valet, a groom, two chambermaids, a footman..." The Elven wizard reels off a list that seems to be more suited to staffing Parnoth's palace in the heart of Emerald City rather than a four-level Tower that would house only nine people and the occasional guest.
K'Nara shakes her head, rolls her eyes and suppresses a smirk--reminding herself to ask Olana what in the world ever possessed the normally-level-headed ranger to pick up that painting.
The Talons continue up the next set of stairs to find Figment on the open rooftop of the Tower. (Everyone in the party can make that same roll about the ballista to deduce that its useless.) As they join their companion, they can all see two things:
First, if you lean over the wall a bit (only a bit, mind you!) you can see Athalorn and Rethus emerging from the cover of the Culverwood, apparently talking to each other. (More botanical stuff, you can be sure!)
Second, from one of the mini-towers emerges an Elf (Figment knows it to be Brusse) with a bow and arrow held in his hands. Spot check for all who have never seen Brusse before versus DC10 to realize that Brusse is a ghost.
Lian Tuesday August 10th, 2004 8:06:44 AM
Lian is getting irritated by the painted elf's statements. "Chambermaids?! Footman!?! You had best check yourself my Canvas Friend. Mind you, you do not even have real feet so... shut your gob!" The elven monk is truly a bit more coarse than usual. "Really! Can we PLEASE keep him down here?!" Then he realizes, he's hearing a bit more, but not much. He smiles.
He quickly changes the subject. "I would like a plain room. Not too elaberate."
Falin d20=5 Tuesday August 10th, 2004 10:04:30 AM
Even though Falin is a bowman and able to create his own bows, which I might add are works of art, he can not deduce the balista is in poor condition.
"I'll stay in the mini-tower." Falin says with a grin.
Lucia Tuesday August 10th, 2004 10:05:44 AM
* That painting seems a little excitable. Can we put him out in the yard or something?*
Athalorn Tuesday August 10th, 2004 3:15:10 PM
The druid wanders still among the vegetation with his new companion, hoping he can get more than two word answers from the elf sometime soon. He sees the party on the roof, and waves as he rambles on about dill and tarragon and clematis.
Glannath Tuesday August 10th, 2004 3:17:23 PM
The eagle had found a quiet treetop to rest within, but is disturbed by noise from the roof of the nearby tower. Recognising the group as Athalorn's companions, he takes flight, and glides up to the battlements where he lands near Olana, recognising her as a woman of the forest. He cocks his head slightly as if listening to the party.
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 10th, 2004 5:09:25 PM
Bertram says quietly, "Friend Knara I will take a room that has no view. I do not mind. I am quite content to be surrounded by the stone of this ancient tower".
Figment d20=17 Tuesday August 10th, 2004 7:55:59 PM
With his extensive knowledge of architecture and engineering, the mage identifies the weaknesses throughout the structure and makes notes on the things he will need to oversee the repair of.
"This is Brusse. He's committed to protecting this place. He's a ghost.".
Olana Tuesday August 10th, 2004 9:47:23 PM
"What you really need - is a frame," the elf tells Valor with a sigh. "Then you must tell us where you'd like to be hung up."
She's in a pleasant, wistful mood, wandering about. She smiles at the eagle, but stops in her tracks as Brusse appears.
"Oh," she says as Figment explains, and stares at the ghost. "Hello."
Gunther Tuesday August 10th, 2004 11:49:27 PM
Gunther thinks about what type of quarters he'd like. Hopefully he'd be able to find himself a pet soon...so with all the training, maybe it'd be best for him to have a room on the first floor....hmmmm...might be best not to have a window... He speaks up. "I tink I vould like to train a new pet soon. Perhaps it might be best if I took a room on de first floor. Dough in de beginning I'll probably spend a lot of time outside...." Gunther scratches his chin thoughtfully. "I hope whoever stays next to me doesn't mind loud noises..."
Sorting Things Out -- DM Donna Wednesday August 11th, 2004 6:28:39 AM
This is a mostly OOC post for clarification of how the Tower is laid out:
1) The Main Floor holds the kitchen and public areas (a dining area and a sitting area.) It is the only floor that has an exit that leads out of the Tower at ground level.
2) The basement--accessible only through the kitchen--has a fresh water well and a few large, rolling storage bins. Olana and the others discovered a secret trapdoor in the southwest corner of the basement that leads to a point west of the Tower proper--apparently it's a passage that exits near the domicile of Rethus and Rainara. (Athalorn can describe the passage as being about eight feet in height at most spots and about five feet or so wide...just large enough for most humanoids to go through it single file.)
3) The first floor and the second floor are called so because they are the first and second Living Space floors...if you count up from the main (or ground) floor, they are actually the second and third floors of the Tower. However, all three levels have wooden walls that partition off the rooms, though their floors and the stairs are all made of stone. Since these interior walls are (relatively) easily moveable, K'Nara is of a mind to keep the layout within a bit safer for her group by making sure that everyone has at least one window in their respective rooms.
4) The roof--accessible through a trapdoor that is on the ceiling of the second living floor (or the floor of the roof, if you prefer)--is a forty-foot square open space...except for four "mini-towers", one in each corner of the Tower. These mini-towers are about twenty feet tall (making the true height of the Tower about fifty feet or so high)--and each is about 12 feet or so square. The interior space of each tower is about ll feet square, and each has an open doorway leading into it, with a ladder to each side of the doorway that leads up to a ledge about ten feet up off the floor. The ledge (stone, of course!) is about 2 feet deep or so--obviously an additional means of having defending archers man their windows, for the two walls of each tower that faces out onto the woods and/or road have six arrow-slit windows...three below the ledge and three above, making it possible for the Elves of old to man each mini-tower with at least twelve archers.
For those who have stated an interest--it IS possible to convert a mini-tower into living quarters...all it takes is time and money.
And the luck that you won't be needing the defensive properties of those mini-towers.
I'll be making an IC post after I get home from school today.
Lian Wednesday August 11th, 2004 6:51:37 AM
"Super. A ghost guard and a talking tapestry with attitude. This will certainly be an interesting home."
"Friends, I've been thinking. When we get the major things sorted out with the Tower, do you think it might be possible to open a combat training school in the courtyard for the locals of the Wood and City? It might serve to be an interesting experience." He smiles. "The school could serve as a way to fund the Tower. Besides, the elves of the Culver might enjoy training with a human Bladesinger." His smile grows wider.
OOC: I suggest looking into the defensive and housing capabilities of the mini-towers. :)
Meet Brusse -- DM Donna d20=18 d20=13 Wednesday August 11th, 2004 1:39:39 PM
K'Nara guffaws at her sword's comment, but coughs to cover it up. Once on the roof, K'Nara easily tells that the ancient ballista there is going to make a fine pile of firewood for the kitchen. Upon seeing Brusse--and hearing Figment's introduction of the ex-Elf--she blinks in surprise...especially when the soldier marches forward, presents arms in his inimitable Elven style, and gives the tall redhead a salute.
"Ma'am! Thauramec Brusse, Commander, leader of the Nighthawk Squad, reporting for duty, ma'am!" he says formally. "What are your orders, ma'am?"
For a moment K'Nara looks completely stunned--for all the discipline one had to go through in order to follow the path of the bladesinger, K'Nara was the last person in The Wold who conducted herself with a military bent. She recalled--thanks to Figment--the warning about the ghost that the council hadn't had the heart to remove from the Tower--Brusse had to be it.
"At...ease, Commander." K'Nara says, thinking a bit before speaking again. "Your duty, so far, has been to patrol the Tower and its grounds..?"
"Ma'am, just the Tower, ma'am!" Brusse replies in an overloud military manner. The living human suppresses a wince and nods.
"Very well, then, Commander Brusse," K'Nara says, "Your new duties will be expanded to patrolling the Tower grounds. Should you ever encounter any person who is not now present--" She gestures around the assemblage, indicating the Talons and Rainara, "--as well as the two who are now prowling the garden--" The woman warrior leans a bit and looks down at where Rethus is still answering Athalorn in but two-word phrases.
"Ma'am! I have seen the ones called Athalorn and Rethus, and I know them on sight, ma'am!" confirms Brusse in his over-enthusiastic military way.
"Yes, well, if you spot anyone not of our present group, or anything that is not natural to these woods, you will immediately inform me. If I am asleep, you will immediately inform anyone of our group who is awake and then wake me up to tell me. If I am not occupying the Tower when you make your discovery...use your best judgement."
"Ma'am, yes, ma'am!" Brusse acknowledges, saluting. "Am I dismissed, ma'am? I would like to start my duties, ma'am."
"Yes...go on...go ahead...dismissed!" K'Nara says, rolling her eyes as Brusse doesn't budge until she officially dismisses him. The ghost salutes smartly, then floats down through the trap door and out of sight.
"Apparently, we have a watch dog." the human jokes with a relieved smile as she turns to the others. "Now that THAT is settled...how about we have a quick dinner and then sack out in the Tower..? We can discuss exactly how we'd like to rehab the interior over the next few days."
"You'll definitely have to lay out some serious gold..." advises Valor from the painting, "...you simply cannot skimp when it comes to home comforts! And the staff--you really MUST add staff...a chatelaine, a bootblack, a few potboys, at least one decent chamber ensemble..." Once more, the painted wizard begins to reel off a list of the finer things in his past life.
(OOC: Make any particular requests or suggestions about what kind of living quarters you'd like to see for your PC. Spellcasters all get to voice an opinion on how to stock the magic laboratory, too. Any other special addendums or extras--speak now or miss the next episode of Extreme Makeover--the Tower Edition!)
Athalorn Wednesday August 11th, 2004 2:47:57 PM
Athalorn pauses in his horticultural ramblings, then thinks to himself. "Rethus, is there a sufficient group of trees in the grounds that I might make a temporary home for myself? I miss my grove, and might need someplace similar. I will of course tend to it myself, and help you in tending the grounds. If there is no such place, I will make my home as best I can on the ground floor of the tower."
Glannath Wednesday August 11th, 2004 2:49:34 PM
The eagle hops along the wall, closer to the party, as if joining in the conversation.
Figment Wednesday August 11th, 2004 8:43:22 PM
The mage goes back down into the lab areas and begins to determine the best stuff to get stocked. He marks shelves for spell components, determines flasks, vials, beakers and everything else he can think of that he'll need. He also makes sure there is room for a library of books. He consults Ingrge to determine the best course of action to combine parts of their work and separate other parts.
Ingrge Wednesday August 11th, 2004 10:23:43 PM
Joining Figmant in the Lab, ingrge makes some suggestions as to storage and set up.
Olana Thursday August 12th, 2004 12:55:58 AM
If possible, Olana wants a room with a view, preferrably that looks out toward the forest, where she can sit on the window ledge at night, and take in the fresh air.
"Why would you want a bootblack and potboys?" she asks the painting. "We'd be tripping up over all those people. Personally I like a bit of peace and quiet, but I suspect you've had a bit too much of that, lately, huh?"
Walking over toward the Glannath, she whispers - "And where will your eyrie be, I wonder? Or have you got one already, somewhere?"
At some point, she'll pop her head around the door of Figment and Ingrge's "den".
"Should I start bringing that treasure haul up, then you can figure it all out?" If they say yes, she'll ask Gunther to help, if he doesn't mind.
Falin Thursday August 12th, 2004 3:01:15 AM
"I would still like to live in one of the towers. I get to enjoy the outdoors and the view. Plus, I am an archer. I would be of more use." says Falin walking to the closest tower.
"As long as the tower can be outfitted to be shelter from the elements I will be fine. Besides, if it gets too bad I can always come down into the tower proper."
Lian Thursday August 12th, 2004 3:50:22 AM
The monk just stares at the ghost, without a word. He's glad there is a guardian that is loyal to the Tower and it's Red-headed General.
"I'd like a top floor room, or a mini-tower room when its built, with a window facing the forest. There are windows, right? Unless one of our resident horticulturalists has objection to it and would like it themselves. If so, I'll take a room with a window facing the stables... we DO have stables, right?" He thinks for a moment. "Stablehands... a few young folk from the forest. Maybe a willing fey."
[OOC: Lian would like it simple. A bench, large wooden table, two chairs, a small punching bag, a large punching bag, pull up bars, weapon rack (or large cabinet) for various weapons, a nice firm bed and room enough to move around freely... and sound proofing if necessary. This will be a sparring room as well as his quarters. Would like the Second Floors large corner room, not connected to other rooms, for meditation purposes.]
Brother Bertram Thursday August 12th, 2004 4:32:23 AM
Bertram listens to his friends dream aloud and smiles, but his attention strays back to the mini-towers and their condition.
Gunther Thursday August 12th, 2004 8:34:05 AM
The warrior gladly accepts the assignment to help bring up all the loot. He doesn't really care which room he gets...he'd spent plenty of times in caves and the like, so even a room without a window wouldn't be a problem for him. Gunther once again turns his thoughts toward obtaining a pet. He wonders what type of potential preditors could be found in the surrounding forests, and whether the druid would be disturbed by him removing it....perhaps an abandoned kitten or cub could be found...
Discussing Home Sweet Home -- DM Donna Thursday August 12th, 2004 4:53:48 PM OUTSIDE: Rethus thinks for a moment and gestures to the druid.
"This way." he says, walking north of where the secret passage exits. In only a few moments, Athalorn finds himself in a rather nice grotto ringed with old-growth Fairylace trees. On the northern side of the glade is a hill that slopes up sharply. A babbling brook tumbles down from on high--right past a nice-sized opening in the rocky hill--before it meanders southeast and out of the grotto.
"How's this?" Rethus asks the human.
INSIDE (or, at least, on the Roof of the Tower): K'Nara nods and herds everyone downstairs.
"Rainara--I do believe your husband said something about stew..?" she asks the Elven cook.
"Already made, actually...I'll go and fetch it forth, Mistress." Rainara answers and hastens away.
"Meanwhile let's all help Olana with unloading the cart..." K'Nara suggests. Meanwhile, Valor happily begins explaining exactly WHY it is that any landowner with ANY prestige must have a minimum of two dozen staff members. He continues his allocution unchecked (and mostly unheard) when Olana props the painting up over the mantel of the large fireplace on the main floor. Strangely enough, the canvas doesn't roll back up, but remains more or less open.
The group makes short work of the treasure to be unloaded. Rainara returns from her home with a large kettle of stew in front of her, courtesy of a Floating Disc spell.
The Talons sit down to enjoy their first dinner during their first night at their very own Tower. During the dinner, K'Nara discusses the fact that--when she'd been fetched away by Greymalkin--she'd had a few nicely-priced magic items (although none of them were truly ones that the group could use) that she'd sold for almost 20,000gp.
"We can use that money to fix the Tower up." K'Nara suggests. "Convert those mini-towers into living spaces...help outfit the lab...fix that outer wall--we could even build a stable-cum-outbuilding for the horses and any other animals that we may happen to adopt." She looks at Gunther as she says this.
"Your specialty is to train animals..?" K'Nara asks him. "We could spread the word with the elves of the area to be on the lookout for orphan or abandoned animals, if you have a preference for a certain type..?"
OOC: A caveat: the map I inherited is not the best, but (as a designer) I will be rearranging the floor plan to the living floors of the Tower. Each of those floors will end up having three bedrooms (each will have at least one window) and a "leftover room". The leftover rooms would be perfect for being the spellcasters' library/lab and for being that training/meditation room. You just need to work out which floor what room will be on: living floor 1 or living floor 2?
The configurations for the mini-towers will be slightly different than on the basic map as well. I'm drafting the layout and should be able to forward the new maps of each floor this weekend.
Anyone taking a mini-tower will be able to create (in effect) a loft-type arrangement; the bottom room of the tower will be about twelve and a half feet square; the loft part of it will have the equivalent living space of about a ten-foot-square room. The loft can only be reached by using a ladder--if you try to build stairs or anything, the steps will take up entirely too much room on both levels to have any truly useable space left over.
Athalorn Friday August 13th, 2004 5:56:29 AM
The druid smiles warmly at Rethus when he sees the glade, his eyes growing distant. "It reminds me of my grove. If you have no objection then Rethus, I would very much like to make this a temporary home for myself."
At lunch, he tells the Talons that he plans to make his abode in the glade in the grounds. "Please use which ever would have been my room for your own purposes."
At talk of training an animal, Athalorn listens closely to Gunther. He carries on eating the stew, waiting to hear what the warrior has to say before making any judgement.
Glannath Friday August 13th, 2004 5:57:36 AM
The eagle stays where he is on the roof of the tower while the others return inside.
Gunther Friday August 13th, 2004 8:53:58 AM
The warrior digs into to the meal with perhaps too much gusto. That was one thing he was going to get used to being around others... these "manners" things.
The large warrior positively beams as K'nara mentions the stable and then asks about his profession. "Vell, in de past, my kitties have slept vith me... If you don't vant dem in de Tower, perhaps I can sleep outside vith dem. And yes...I train animals...dat is how I have earned a living in de past. I've trained all types of animals for oders..." He looks up at the druid...hoping he's not upsetting the fellow. "It is not goot to break up de families, so as you mentioned ma'am...I vould take de orphans and veak, bring dem back to health and train dem...at least dat is vat I did in de Scaab. You'd be amazed at how much a vell trained kitty vill sell for... But I alvays made sure dey got goot homes. Vonce I heard dat von of my clients beat de leopard dat I sold him. It took me several veeks to hunt him down...let's just say dat he doesn't adventure any more." Gunther's grim countenance attests to his intense feelings toward animal cruety. "Anyvay...for my personal pets, I really prefer de kitties...tigers, lynx, leopards... I doubt you have many tigers in des parts...perhaps von day I vill take a little trip and find me anoder." Gunther looks around to see how his comments are received before boring anyone further with his passion for animals.
Olana Friday August 13th, 2004 12:46:29 PM
Once the loot has been piled in or just outside Figment's and Ingrge's den, Olana pauses, her eyes taking in each item. Wow...
Ring (magical- abjur- faint aura) Ring (magical-abjur- faint aura) Ring (magical-trans - moderate aura) Water Walking
Wand (magical Divin- moderate aura) Wand (magical Evoca- moderate aura) Candles - Invocation Staff - of Life - no charges Wand - Restoration 10th level 10 charges
Deck of Cards (magical illus - moderate aura) Headband (magical trans- moderate aura) Bag (magical conjur- moderate aura) Beaten up old Lamp (magical conjur- strong aura)* see below
Scroll with 4 spells -- Remove Curse, Ice storm, Remove Curse, Greater Invis. Scroll with 3 spells -- Dispel magic (3) Scroll with 4 spells -- Rock to Mud, Mud to Rock, Permanency, Wall of Force Scroll with 5 spells -- Raise Dead, Greater Dispel Magic, Heal (3)
A moving/talking portrait of an Elven mage(magical conjur- moderate aura) Solid Ruby Music Box (with an animated miniature quartet inside) (magical - moderate aura) Jeweled Gloves (non magical) Golden Rapier (non magical) Crystal Telescope (non magical)
Back downstair, she eats her stew quietly, and listens to the general talk.
Lian Friday August 13th, 2004 9:21:13 PM
The monk savours the good stew and nice glass of clean cold water. Both he hasn't had for a VERY long time. He tries to pick up a stray word or two from the conversation, though, what he hears is still spotty at best. Occassionally he'll ask, "What was that?" If he thinks it was a question directed at him.
Falin Saturday August 14th, 2004 2:00:35 AM
"How is it that you got into training animals?" Falin asks Gunter between bites.
Dinner Conversation -- DM Donna Saturday August 14th, 2004 8:13:49 AM
"Ahhh...I'm not surprised there's a habitable cave nearby," K'Nara tells Athalorn, "It's not TOO far away from the Tower..? We wouldn't want to have you be too late to help us should we need you--or vice versa." Then the enthusiastic beastmaster comes up with several choices of possible trainees.
"Hmmm..." K'Nara mulls over the information Gunther told her, "...not sure exactly what we have by way of felines here in the Culverwood, Gunther, but we'll just have to wait and see. Meanwhile, we can also put out feelers in the City to see if there are any possibilities there, as well." The woman warrior nods as Olana gives her the inventory of items the group got from the latter part of their foray into Fae Skeimir.
"You two will be wanting to Identify all that stuff, no doubt..?" K'Nara asks of Figment and Ingrge. "We'll have the time to do it, I daresay." She then eyes Lian, whose damaged hearing keeps getting triggered by the occasional loud comment made by that painting that Olana seems to be rather attached to.
"No, Lian--it's only Valor!" K'Nara says directly to the monk. "He's going on about having proper scullery maids...again..." She leans over and asks Brother Bertram if there is nothing he can do about Lian's slight impairment?
"I think this malady may be beyond you, good Brother, but I need to ask just in case." K'Nara admits.
The redheaded leader of the Talons looks around the dinner table once more, nodding at Falin as he, too, asks Gunther about his chosen livelihood. After Gunther answers, K'Nara returns once more to the as-yet-unanswered question she'd asked at the start of the meal:
"So...shall we use that extra money I got as a Tower Improvement fund...or divide it up?" she asks. "Whether we do that or not, we will have to return to the City to get some craftspeople to inspect the building and give us estimates as to how much it will cost and how long it will take to whip the place into shape for us."
After people tell K'Nara their opinions, the party can sack out for the night--you can either "camp out" in the courtyard (lovely night for it); have a "slumber party" setup in the sitting area of the main floor; or try sleeping in any of the rooms of the Tower--you will have to use your bedrolls still, though--the only furniture to be found is on the main floor.
Figment Saturday August 14th, 2004 11:28:43 AM
The mage decides to weigh in on several comments. "K'Nara, Ingrge and I will begin the process of identifying this stuff. We'll find out what it is and then we can decide what we wish to do with it. Also, I would highly suggest we go to the elves for our craftsmen as I think it in our best interst to not allow the city to know much about our place - or that we are even in it. We also need to see about getting these curses lifted. I love food but eating twice as much is just too much work!".
After the conversation and dinner the mage compliments the elven woman on her cooking and retires to his room to begin work (OOC: I have some more info than Olana wrote. I'll post it later).
Figment Saturday August 14th, 2004 11:43:35 AM
The mage begins his work on the items with the help of Ingrge. e does not stop until he gets them all identified or determines he can't identify them. He also states to the group about the treasure. "I think a portion of any treasure (e.g. coinage) that we take as we adventure should be used for maintaining and improving our home. I think we still need to get some of our own money as well for our own use. Here's what I have so far..."
Ring (magical- abjur- faint aura) Ring (magical-abjur- faint aura) Ring (magical-trans - moderate aura) Water Walking
Wand (magical Divin- moderate aura) Wand (magical Evoca- moderate aura) Candles - Invocation Staff - of Life - no charges Wand - Restoration 10th level 10 charges
Deck of Cards (magical illus - moderate aura) Headband of Intellect +2 Bag (magical conjur- moderate aura) Beaten up old Lamp Efreti Lamp * see below
Scroll with 4 spells -- Remove Curse, Ice storm, Remove Curse, Greater Invis. Scroll with 3 spells -- Dispel magic (3) Scroll with 4 spells -- Rock to Mud, Mud to Rock, Permanency, Wall of Force Scroll with 5 spells -- Raise Dead, Greater Dispel Magic, Heal (3)
A moving/talking portrait of an Elven mage(magical conjur- moderate aura) Solid Ruby Music Box (with an animated miniature quartet inside) (magical - moderate aura) Jeweled Gloves (non magical) Golden Rapier (non magical) Crystal Telescope (non magical)
Falin Saturday August 14th, 2004 11:56:34 AM
Leaning back and patting his belly, "I think we should use it to fix up the building. And I would have to agree with Figment. I do not like the attitude the town is exuding right now. I think we should stick with the elves and the other friends in the forest we may have. A few of us may have some crafting skills we could use as well."
Brother Bertram Sunday August 15th, 2004 6:31:15 AM
Bertram examines the mini-towers with an eye towards defense.
Athalorn Sunday August 15th, 2004 10:27:46 AM
The druid appreciates Gunther's concern not to offend his own values. "I can see that you have no tolerance for cruelty to your animals, and if you really would look to foster an orphaned creature then you will find no objection from me. I have seen many a cruel master to animals and also many a kind one. If you are indeed the latter, my good friend, I would gladly help you look after it." He pauses, and seems about to go on, but trusts in Gunthers character enough to leave anything else unsaid.
The druid continues eating hungrily, and joins in the conversation again when it turns to their new home. "Indeed, K'Nara, I will make sure I am close enough to the tower in case of problems we may have. But Glannath is a good eye for me in the treetops, and would warn me of danger long before we would otherwise know. For tonight, if you people don't mind, I will tend to my new home under the stars."
He makes one more input to the conversation, chuckling to himself. "I wholeheartedly agree with you Figment. This extra height I have is causing me a headache. Literally. Already twice this day I have banged my head on ceilings that seem lower than they ought to be. We must find someone who can help us."
OOC Reminder --DM Donna Monday August 16th, 2004 5:37:58 AM
Last chance to have your character weigh in on how the "extra" money will be utilized...please let K'Nara know whether your PC wants the money or wants the Tower to get a general rehab.
Olana Monday August 16th, 2004 1:19:40 PM
Munching on stew, the elf nods her head at suggestions to get rid of the curses, and use some of the treasure to fix up the place. It wasn't that she minded about her white hair, but others had taken stiffer penalties from the skeleton's kiss, and it would be nice to get back to normal.
There's Even Dessert -- DM Donna Monday August 16th, 2004 6:14:41 PM
K'Nara considers Figment's point about not letting the City dwellers know about where the Talons are.
"You have a very good point there, Figment." she agrees. "We will forego trips to the City, then...although I don't think we're likely to find any tiger kittens elsewhere in this area of The Wold."
"Tye-grrr?" echoes Rainara uncertainly.
"Oh, yes--tiger...it's a very big feline that has black and orange stripes--I've heard that some have regularly hunted humanoids like Elves and Humans for food." K'Nara explains, though it's clear that she, herself, only just barely knows a very little about the species. The elderly Elven woman suddenly brightens.
"You mean a version of the stahkkar?" Rainara asks. The human female sits, looking nonplussed for a moment, then shakes her cauled head.
"Oh, riiiiight--of course! A stahkkar! I should have remembered!" K'Nara said, sounded exasperated with herself. She looks at Rainara curiously.
"They're very rare, though, aren't they, Rainara?"
"You DO have to go deep into the Culverwood to have a chance at seeing any, Mistress," the cook agrees, picking up used plates as she speaks, "But they aren't as rare as they used to be--it's just that stahkkars are masters of camouflage! It's quite possible some live relatively nearby--but their coloring, you know..." Rainara's voice trails off as she walks to the kitchen with her load.
"Stahkkars..." K'Nara explains to Gunther, "...are not quite so big as these tigers I've heard mentioned...maybe about 30 inches or so at the shoulder, though some can come bigger. They are native to the Culverwood and very, very hard to spot--because where your tiger has orange and black and white...the stakkar has green and gray and yellow. Extremely difficult to see in the middle of a living, green forest."
"Both Rethus and I have kin and friends throughout most of the forest, Mistress," Rainara says as she returns, "We can notify them of what Master Gunther here seeks--and the help you wish to restore the Tower of Saryd to its former glory. None but the forest population will ever know of it."
"Sounds good to me, Rainara...thank you." K'Nara says, nodding.
"Now...I shall go get the brosia." Rainara says with a smile. "I just managed to get the ingredients together for an impromptu dessert."
"Dessert..????" K'Nara's expression speaks volumes. Indeed--when WAS the last time any of the Talons had time for dessert?
"Something else besides aid in restoring the Tower is aid in lifting your curses." K'Nara says, the euphoria from before fleeing as she looks quite somber and guilt-ridden. It's clear that the female fighter still deeply regrets not being with her group when they could have used her support.
The brosia, however, is delicious enough to take anyone's mind off guilt-trips: berries, fruit and whipped cream mixed together in a cool and airy concoction that leaves one quite satisfied--Rainara is more than happy to share the recipe with anyone who asks.
After dinner, the Talons pick where they will sleep for the night (K'Nara unfurls her own bedroll right by the cheery fireplace) and make plans on what they will be doing with their downtime while trying to get their Elven connections to work for them.
OOC: I'll need for Ingrge and Figment to tell me EXACTLY what items they'd like to try to Identify and in what order. Everyone else can post what they're planning to do when certain craftspeople stop by the Tower after the word spreads through the Culverwood about what the Talons would like to do.
Lian Monday August 16th, 2004 8:14:17 PM
The monk gladly excepts the dessert. "Thank you."
He tries VERY hard to capture a word or two more of the conversation about the beasts of the wood. "Aw yes, I heard something of those prowlers when I was home. I wasn't supposed to leave the monastery after dark when I was a child." He smiles. "I never saw anything to be afraid of while I crept about."
Figment Monday August 16th, 2004 9:03:59 PM
The mage begins at the top of the list (as posted) and starts working down. He performs 7 identify's per day until complete. (OOC: He's not stopping until he gets them all. Since we have free time I would expect he could get it done within a few days).
Gunther Monday August 16th, 2004 10:55:59 PM
The man listens with an interest that borders upon mania at the exchange between K'nara and Rainara. Shining eyes fix on Rainara as Gunther gulps down dessert. "Is dere anyvon who can show me von of des stakkars? Dey sound beautiful. I vould love to just see von."
As talk turns to lifting of the curses, Gunther shrugs. "I vill help vith de lifting of your curses, but I'm beginning to like de look of my own von personally." Grinning, Gunther runs his fingers through his all white hair, which oddly enough almost compliments his dark brown tanned body.
Gunther heads up to the first living floor for the night choosing room #4...since it is the farthest from the stair case. Suddenly finding the need for a little alone time, the large man curls up in the darkest corner of the room and lays down on the bare stone floor, somehow finding comfort in the simplicity of it all. As he drifts off to sleep, Gunther dreams of searching for stakkars in Culverwood and the joy of the manual labor that is sure to come his way as the Elves and the Talons refurbish their new home.
Falin Tuesday August 17th, 2004 3:12:01 AM
"The dinner was astounding and the desert was divine." Falin says with a wink towards the chef.
After sleeping in the outdoors for so many years he finds it difficult to sleep inside so much. "I am going to sleep under the stars tonight." He says with a smile. Although he still has a bit of a paranoia streak. "I'll be on the roof."
And with that Falin dashes up the stairs to settle in for the evening.
Lucia Tuesday August 17th, 2004 3:12:58 AM
* I think we need an armory so we have someplace to store your "other" magical weapons.
Athalorn Tuesday August 17th, 2004 6:29:48 AM
The druid listens intently to talk of the stahkkars. "They are timid creatures, and rare it is that a human has even laid eyes on one of these beasts, Gunther. But if you are that desperate to adopt a cub in need, I will see what the Culverwood can tell me."
Athalorn sleeps outside in his grove.
OOC: Sorry Donna, did you want us to give an idea of what the characters will be doing over the next few days? If so: Over the days, Athalorn will spend some time tending to his adopted grove in the grounds. He will also spend some time in eagle form with Glannath scouting the Culverwood for trouble. Indeed, one day they will visit his real grove and tend to that. On their trips to the wood, Athalorn will speak with friendly creatures to see if they know of abandoned cubs for Gunther.
If you didn't want this sort of post - I apologise - just ignore me !
Getting Down to Business...and Pleasure -- DM Donna Tuesday August 17th, 2004 3:04:53 PM
K'Nara, Lian and Athalorn don't have too much more to add to the existing information on stahkkars--the cats reach about 30 inches at the shoulder on average, resembling small tigers and weigh about 200 to 250 pounds or so. They are nocturnal hunters, love swimming in water and can be found alone, in pairs, or (at most) as a family group of mother, father and current cubs (from 1 to 4.) After two years, cubs are on their own and the parents mate again.
Everyone goes to bed in their various places...and K'Nara gets a pre-dawn wake up call from Brusse the ghostly sentry: all is well. Good thing she was up for her regular bladesinger training anyhow.
Rainara and Rethus help the Talons to settle in. A makeshift, very simple corral is made to keep the horses from wandering. K'Nara announces that she's thought about it and would like to take Bedroom #2 on the first living level.
"Since most of you have been asking about converting the mini-towers, we're going to be able to use some of the other bedrooms for guest quarters...maybe one of them can even be a small armory." K'Nara points out.
Over the next few days, Figment, Ingrge...and even K'Nara manage to Identify the items the party managed to acquire--an impressive haul whose details will be discussed via emails amongst the players.
Visitors arrive at the Tower about three days after the group first arrives. A half-elf who could be as young as in her thirties or as old as perhaps her sixties approaches the Tower with several other females in tow.
"I am Lera, of Lera's Living Interiors." the sandy-haired woman introduces herself. "I've heard that you wish to make the Tower of Saryd...habitable once more..?" The decorator proceeds to have her assistants show the Talons a series of drawings and sketches about how to fix up the Tower, including a plan to subcontract the stonework to a clan of Dwarves who live a bit northeast of the area.
Lera says that the 20,000gp fund will be a very good start. Fixing the outer wall and recreating a working portcullis will cost about 3000gp. If the group wishes a stable, it, too, can be made of stone for another 3900gp. (There would be enough room for not only the horses, but a tack room, storage and a "parking bay" for the cart.)
Lera says she needs more time to work up an estimate for any other outbuilding--especially if Gunther has an eye towards training big cats.
K'Nara points out that the group will have to go into the City, not only to access the money that she's been holding onto for the group, but also to find buyers for some of the unwanted magic items as well.
(OOC: remember, you have to post which room in the Tower you would like as your PC's bedroom. Posting additional items or such for your PC's Wish List would be desired as well. Rainara & Rethus will assist in getting in touch with the different craftspeople the PCs will need.)
Olana Tuesday August 17th, 2004 3:41:53 PM
After dinner, and after thanking Rainara, Olana bounds up to the third level/floor and bunks down there for the night.
(( Room #3 on third level, (second) floor, if thats possible. Donna after 9 years, I've just weaned myself onto calling the ground and first floors - first and second, in American fashion, and now this! LOL))
Ingrge Tuesday August 17th, 2004 4:58:20 PM
Working with Figment and occasionally K'nara Ingrge memorizes as many Identify spells a day that he can and gets down to work. During the time between he sets up his things in 2nd floor #2.
Figment Tuesday August 17th, 2004 9:22:43 PM
The mage takes Room #4 on the 2nd living floor and suggests that Room #3 serve as their lab and library.
Lian Wednesday August 18th, 2004 3:31:46 AM
"I think that Brusse and the folks here should have a say in what happen to the Tower, since they've been here longer than us. They may know what needs help first."
Discussions of All Kinds -- DM Donna Wednesday August 18th, 2004 6:43:56 AM
K'Nara smirks at Lucia's pointed comment about the "need" to store any other magic weapons elsewhere. Is that jealousy the redhead is hearing in the favored sword's voice? Heh heh.
Lian's suggestion about including the Themols and Brusse immediately sets off Valor from within his picture, since who other than he truly knows the proper way to design and refurbish such an elegant Elven landmark as the Tower of Saryd...? The animated wizard begins a long, rambling list of "must haves" that seem to include a ballroom and an audience chamber, amongst other sites.
Fortunately for everyone, Rainara whispers something and makes a gesture--and the painting suddenly loses sound.
"I took it upon myself to cast a Silence spell directly in front of the fireplace, Mistress." the elderly elf explains. K'Nara grins and immediately proposes that the group remembers to give Rainara a bonus come payday.
Uninterrupted by the talkative picture, the Talons are (so far) able to hammer out the following room assignments:
First Living Level: Room 1--picked by Lian for an unstated purpose Room 2--picked by K'Nara as her quarters Room 3--free Room 4--picked by Gunther as his quarters
Second Living Level: Room 1--free Room 2--picked by Ingrge for his quarters Room 3--picked by Olana for her quarters Room 4--picked by Figment for his quarters
Mini-Towers on Roof: NE Tower--free SE Tower--free SW Tower--free NW Tower--free
Nearby Grotto: picked by Athalorn for his quarters
+++++
K'Nara nudges Figment when he states his choice for the magic lab/library.
"Olana picked that room for her quarters first," she points out, "Besides--Room 1 on the Second Living Level is bigger...it would be better for a laboratory-cum-library...more room, yes..?"
OOC: Don't forget to make your private d100 rolls for me with TODAY'S POST. He (or she) whom does not make this roll will get their roll made for them. You have 24 hours from the time that this post appears to make your d100 roll.
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 18th, 2004 10:29:44 AM
After considering the matter, Bertram look into takin a minitower as his his own. He examines them and considers the fact he needs time alone for morning devotions.
Athalorn Wednesday August 18th, 2004 11:11:14 AM
Athalorn carries on tending to the grotto - making it appear homely on the inside but from the exterior looks to be as wild as the rest of the surroundings.
Falin Wednesday August 18th, 2004 12:07:54 PM
Falin retires to the roof for the evening. He picks the North Eastern mini-tower. He looks over at Bertram and says, "I know how important it is for anyone to have quiet time I will not disturb you on the roof."
Gunther Wednesday August 18th, 2004 5:01:15 PM
Feeling totally at a loss with the decorators, Gunther fills his time alternating between strenuous workouts with his two-bladed sword and making little forays into the forest, just enjoying being surrounded by nature. He makes sure not to wander too far...he doesn't want to get permanently lost in Culverwood.
Ingrge Wednesday August 18th, 2004 6:36:49 PM
Just ocasionally poking his haed out of the doors while working on the items, Ingrge actually can sometimes be seen out in the walled area working and apparently talking? to his staff either that or he is trying to cast spells while he is also practicing his staff attacks. It is kind of hard to say but every so often as he makes a strike with his staff bolts of energy pop out of the end of the staff as well.
Olana Wednesday August 18th, 2004 6:49:52 PM
Olana paces back and forth in her room, wondering about this and that, occasionally wondering what the heck Ingrge is doing next door! Good job elves didn't need a lot of sleep. Leaning out of the window, she takes in the view. Maybe she could set up a target, down in the trees, and fire her arrows out the window for practice. Hmmm...
Figment d100=49 Wednesday August 18th, 2004 8:12:34 PM
The mage contnues his work and acknowledges Olana's choice too - with proper apology, of course.
Lian Wednesday August 18th, 2004 10:29:58 PM
OOC: Aw yes, and it was supposed to be the second floor, room #1. :)
Lian Wednesday August 18th, 2004 10:32:07 PM
The elf looks at the painting, thinking out loud, "By the Gods, I hope your not an ancient ancester of mine! Doormat."
Group Business -- DM Donna d100=27 d100=30 d20=20 d20=6 d20=7 d20=4 d20=16 d20=8 Thursday August 19th, 2004 6:13:12 AM
This is an OOC post to finish up the business of rolling to see what order you people go in to pick items from that lovely loot list of yours.
I will roll for Lian...the result is 27.
Now I will roll to see what the target number is:
The target number is 30.
I will now take this matter to email.
I will post for the game after I get home from school.
Famous Last Words -- DM Donna d20=20 d20=18 Thursday August 19th, 2004 3:21:18 PM
Lera and her crew are almost regulars at the Tower these days--they are efficient and have been able to procure some very well-made beds that are just the right sizes and comfort levels for each of the Talons in the Tower. They even got Athalorn a very sturdy hammock for use in his cave, if he should wish it.
The Rocksteady Clan of Dwarves have come to the Tower. They surveyed the work that needs to be done, and confirm Lera's initial estimate. They offer a bit of a discount: they will repair the outer wall, build a nice stone stable and repoint the fireplace for a total of 6000gp. K'Nara believes it to be a good deal.
It's mid-morning outside in the northern courtyard of the Tower--K'Nara is sparring with Gunther, showing the man the difference between the usual technique of using a bastard sword with two hands and her ever-evolving bladesinger technique. Rethus and Athalorn are harvesting some herbs for Rainara, while the other Talons are also doing anything from tending to the horses to practicing archery to just enjoying the sunshine of the day.
Suddenly...
...out of sky, flying as though the demons of the Abyss were on his tail, comes none other than Glannath!
Everyone in the party must make a Spot check vs. DC12. Those making it--such as Glannath, who got the natural 20 I rolled above, and K'Nara, whose roll is 18--will notice that just about everything on wings is flying out of the area as fast as their individual vanes can take them...all types of animals...mostly birds, but quite a few larger winged things, too: giant insects, some cockatrices, a few sprites, a couple of giant owls, a flock of stirges--there's even a beast that looks like the strangest cross between an eagle and a horse! (OOC: Intelligence check versus DC15 to recognize a hippogriff.)
"What the bloody blue h*ll is going on here???" the leader of the Emerald Talons demands, stopping and staring at the massive aerial exodus.
Lian d20+13=29 d20+2=4 Thursday August 19th, 2004 3:30:59 PM
The elf just stands in awe of the mass of flocking aerial retreat. (Spot 29, Int 4...aw well...)
"Whao!"
Athalorn d20+18=28 Thursday August 19th, 2004 3:43:06 PM
Athalorn almost senses that his companion approaches with haste, and upon looking up from the herbs that he gathers clearly sees the mass of other winged creatures in the distance.
Suddenly panicked for his friend, he calls Glannath to him with a shout - trying to calm the eagle as he approaches.
Ingrge spot d20+8=19 Int d20+4=5 Thursday August 19th, 2004 8:39:02 PM
Still practicing utside and making the dwarves occasionally flinch as things get hairied, Ingrge takes a moment off as the sky is suddenly filled with fleeing avian life. Looking up the sun flashes him right in the eyes and he doesn't even see the hippogriff, (nat 1) otherwise he would have been able to reminisce about the one time he got to ride one.
Falin d20=8 d20+2=6 Friday August 20th, 2004 3:11:36 AM
Falin sees nothing and continues to fire his bow. That is until he hears his comrades commenting on the skies. He then looks up with his hand out to protect from the sun.
Figment d20=16 d20=9 Friday August 20th, 2004 6:14:19 AM
The mage spends his time studying the new magic, learning from the elves and looking around the forest for new herbs for his cooking, tailoring his fine clothes, and a good portion of his time riding Jux. It's been too long...
As the forest air explodes in movement he begins looking around "What in the Wold...".
Gunther d20+1=16 d20+1=5 Friday August 20th, 2004 8:56:34 AM
Gunther very much enjoys his sparring time with K'nara. She was much stronger than she looked, and his arms were already tired from fending off her blows...
Gunther looks up and spots the aerial migration, though he can't figure out what the strange animal is. Looking over at K'nara, the warrior tenses. "Dis is very strange!! Someting must have disturbed dem... And it must be someting very bad to make dat ting leave!!"
Glannath Friday August 20th, 2004 1:04:36 PM
The eagle gives out a shrill cry of alarm, then dives rapidly out of the sky and lands alongside Athalorn. The eagle looks very alarmed.
(Simon can he land on your arm or is he too big for that now?)
Olana d20+2=12 d20+13=25 Friday August 20th, 2004 1:13:21 PM
Approaching the Tower after a jog through the trees, Olana speeds up, glancing upward every once in a while. What was happening? By the looks of it something was scaring everything out of the trees - but what? Even that whatchamacallit horse thingy was on the wing.
The Eyefull Tower -- DM Donna d20=19 Friday August 20th, 2004 5:15:08 PM
K'Nara's jaw drops as the large magical beastie flaps hurriedly past the Tower--not even bothering to stop to drool over the horses.
"That's a hippogriff, by the Abyss!" she says to Gunther, amazed. "They never run from anything..." The redhead stops and her hazel eyes narrow. "...not unless it's bigger than they are..."
K'Nara's head swivels about, then she nods and takes off towards the door to the Tower at top speed.
"They're all flying away from something--something we need to see from up in the air..!!!" she yells for all to hear as she makes for the Tower interior...
(OOC: I'll be posting again tomorrow and perhaps even Sunday to move the answer to this intriguing mystery closer to revelation.)
Lian Friday August 20th, 2004 5:32:06 PM
The monk scrambles up the stairs, making for the roof.
Athalorn d20+18=36 d20+18=22 Saturday August 21st, 2004 8:12:02 AM
When Glannath lands next to the druid, (Jan, he's too big now to land on his arm - medium size ) Athalorn leans down and tries to calm the eagle with soothing whispers. Then, turning into an Eagle himself, Athalorn takes to the sky, flying in the direction Glannath came from. He scans the forest for the source of the commotion (Spot 36, Listen 22)
Brother Bertram Saturday August 21st, 2004 10:46:26 AM
Bertram grabs his axe preparing for the whatever might be coming this way.
Lookin' for Clues -- DM Donna d20=19 Saturday August 21st, 2004 1:52:49 PM
Both K'Nara and Lian begin a mad dash up through the Tower, rushing by Brusse as he descends from the third floor to the second--practically dispersing him in their haste to reach the roof.
By the time they reach the roof, K'Nara is swearing.
"I should have grabbed that telescope on the way up!" she fumes, but continues to push the roof access door up (ooc: Strength Check 19) and go onto the roof. As they do so, they see that the spur-of-the-moment migration is still continuing.
Athalorn, now aloft and winging his way southwest, has to dive, swoop and bank several times as the animals of the Culverwood flee past him. The birds of the forest are all shrieking, cawing, trilling and/or screaming the same warning:
"Flee! Flee! Blue Death comes this way! Blue Death comes this way!!!"
Athalorn must make two checks: a Dexterity check versus DC15 to avoid a mid-air collision with any of the numerous winged beasts that are hurtling through the air towards him...and a Spot check versus DC15 (add any extra bonuses the druid's Avian shape may allow).
(OOC: if you can make that Spot check as soon a possible, the actual reveal will occur earlier than tomorrow's post.)
Falin Saturday August 21st, 2004 5:46:40 PM
Falin sprints to the roof after he sees the rest of his friends up there. After going through the open door to the roof he nocks an arrow in preparation for what might be coming.
Figment Saturday August 21st, 2004 7:19:37 PM
The mage casts Fly on himself and also takes to the air to see what he can see. He stays low enough as to not get hammered by flying things.
Lian Sunday August 22nd, 2004 4:34:37 AM
"Sorry Brusse!" Says the monk, just being polite to one of the staff.
The elf follows the leader up the stairs, coming onto the battlements to see the aerial exodus.
"By Domi. What could scare off so many creatures?! Something big no doubt."
He looks at K'Nara, and his expression flattens, "Parnoth!"
Athalorn d20+18=29 d20+2=18 Sunday August 22nd, 2004 5:19:43 AM
The druid continues flying through the maelstrom of creatures, still trying to see what was the cause of this, and trying in his mind to think what the 'blue death' might be. (Spot = 29)
As he flies, he somehow manages to weave in and out of the oncoming creatures without collision (Dex check = 18)
Storm Rider -- DM Donna d20=20 Sunday August 22nd, 2004 8:49:27 AM
Atop the Tower, K'Nara, Lian and Falin stand, eyes straining towards the southwest.
"Possible..." the human bladesinger concedes to the monk, "...but...Parnoth is in Emerald City--he'd be approaching from the southeast, and these things are flying at us from the southwest. Besides...Parnoth usually doesn't fly around in dragon form--unless it's an emergency. It causes too many of the citizenry to panic."
Figment is a mere twenty feet off the ground, and only (at best) maybe half the distance from the Tower that Athalorn has flown. If the human wizard truly wishes to see what the transformed druid can see, Figment will have to take the chance and climb up, higher, above most of the trees. Stay safe and see nothing, Figment--or go up, make a Dexterity check versus DC15 and then a Spot check versus DC15 to see what Athalorn now sees.
Athalorn climbs ever higher--finally managing his way up to where it is relatively free of fleeing avians...and sees--off in the distance--lightning lancing from the sky to the ground. No, wait--two sources of lightning...one a bit more north than the other.
No...wait...how in the heck can there be lightning striking from the sky, when it is a relatively clear, sunny day..??? Athalorn automatically focuses on where the bolts originated from (OOC: you got a natural 20--arrrrgh!)...and suddenly realizes exactly what the birds were terrified of and screaming about:
There are two blue dragons flying towards the Tower of Saryd--spitting deadly electricity as they approach!
It will take these dragons a mere two rounds at their present speed to reach the Tower.
Those on top of the Tower must make a Spot check versus DC15 to notice the two almost-simultaneous flashes of lightning way off in the distance.
Figment d20=20 Sunday August 22nd, 2004 9:22:23 AM
The mage decides to risk it and begins to fly upward into the sea of fleeing creatures to have a look (DC 20 - natural).
Figment d20=18 Sunday August 22nd, 2004 11:17:51 AM
(OOC: Spot Check that should have been made previously.)
Seeing the dragons and knowing exactly what they can do, the mage bolts straight for the tower issuing a warning:
"There are 2 blue dragons flying straight at us! Get our staff into the escape tunnel below and get ready for a fight!"
The mage flies straight down into the tower and grabs the efreet lamp - hoping it will be of some use.
(OOC from the DM: Figment will not be able to exit the Tower until the dragons he's warning everyone about are actually right at the Tower site.)
Lian d20+13=25 Sunday August 22nd, 2004 11:25:16 PM
The monk focuses. (Spot 25)
"That lightning is striking at a strange angle." Then he hears a single word, "...dragon..."
"Oh dear. I sure wish that ballista worked right now!! BERTRAM! INGRGE! TALONS! INCOMING!!!"
Falin d20+2=17 Sunday August 22nd, 2004 11:58:07 PM
As he scans the horizon he spots the two bolts of lightning and hears the others talk of dragons.
Falin's facial features turn grim and he says a silent prayer to whatever gods are listening. He looks back up and readys his bow in preparation for battle.
Olana d20+9=29 Monday August 23rd, 2004 1:42:32 AM
Reaching the Tower just in time to hear Figment's warning, she yells - "Scatter! Get in the trees! We can't take on two dragons! Get out of there!"
She runs for the horses and will try and get them out of the corral, hopefully leading ALL of them under the tree canopy. ((HANDLE ANIMAL DC 29 - ohhhh nat 20))
Two dragons??? she's thinking. Visitors for Parnoth, perhaps? What's the old scaly rascal been up to, now? She keeps her voice soothing, while guiding the horses into hiding.
Athalorn Monday August 23rd, 2004 3:25:36 AM
As soon as Athalorn sees the two dragons, he turns as quickly as his wings will allow and flys directly to the tower with as much haste as he can muster, hoping to reach the tower before the dragons.
Brother Bertram Monday August 23rd, 2004 4:24:59 AM
Bertram glances at the old ballistae in disgust then moves for the stairs as fast as possible. Make the creatures work to get them at least.
Gunther d20+1=14 d20+1=20 Monday August 23rd, 2004 8:00:21 AM
Having not spotted the dragons alone (I am assuming that Gunther had followed K'nara to the roof), Gunther's jaw drops at the proclaimation from the others. Dragons....more dragons. The warrior shudders. He looks to K'nara he begins to swear in orcish. "Vell, dis is a fine velcoming party." Hearing Olana's call, the warrior is inclined to agree. "Yes, ve stand very little chance against two, ve should leave." Despite his opinion, Gunther does wait to hear what K'nara has to say...he won't leave the others alone to fend with the dragon.
Ingrge Monday August 23rd, 2004 5:19:07 PM
seeing Olana heading for the horses< ingrge joins her in moving the horses to saftey in the trees, and then moves back toward the woods edge to watch what occurs and draws his bow.
Fight! Fight! -- DM Donna Monday August 23rd, 2004 7:47:09 PM
"Get off the roof--make sure Rainara and Rethus make it to that escape tunnel!" K'Nara orders, then her eyes follow Bertram's to the inoperative ballista. "The new one won't be here for another week!" She snorts, then herds the others towards the exit. "Move, move! There seem to be two of them and they're getting closer all the time..!" As she makes sure that the people who had been on the roof with her go down through the trap door, K'Nara leans down and says:
"I'll see you down on the ground--I want to try something out..."
With this, she closes the trap door. Then the female fighter straightens up, grimaces and addresses Lucia:
"I sure hope this works..!" she says, then takes a running start and leaps first onto a crenellation of the Tower, then from it towards the ground...a good 100 feet beneath her!
However, it soon becomes evident that K'Nara's descent is much slower than it naturally should be... (OOC: anyone making a Spellcraft check versus DC10 can tell K'Nara has, quite fortunately, cast a Feather Fall spell on herself.)
Athalorn approaches the Tower in time to see K'Nara floating down towards the ground.
Olana and Ingrge manage to get the horses under the cover of the trees...though how wise this course of action will ultimately be has yet to be seen: the approaching blue dragons alternate their lightning strikes with jeering sorts of roaring laughter. Dragon laughter mixed the telltale "zzzzzt"/tree explosions gets ever louder.
Figment bursts out front door of the Tower just as K'Nara comes to a gentle landing on the ground about ten feet to his left.
"Nice to see you've rejoined us, Figment." the redhead teases the wizard, though with a rather grim tone as she looks skyward again...
The smell of ozone and the heavy gusts of artificially-stirred wind announce the overhead arrival of the two blue behemoths--who continue to soar eastward...the pair are obviously headed straight for Emerald City itself!
"Get the horses--we have to--" K'Nara yells...but her voice is drowned out by a thunderous roar. Not of natural thunder is this noise...nor is it from either of the blue dragons--who backwing in surprise upon hearing it. A massive blur of green streaks from the southeast...
"Parnoth!" K'Nara cries, pointing up. The others who'd been running back down the Tower stairs now also burst from the interior just in time to see the tableau unfolding in the sky above the Culverwood:
Parnoth the ancient green dragon facing the challenge of two young adult blue dragons.
...who will win..?
Brother Bertram Monday August 23rd, 2004 8:52:47 PM
Bertram laughed out loud seeing Ole Green and Scaly back in action. "Now will this not be a sight to see my friends!"
Lian d20+17=20 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 12:31:57 AM
The monk wastes little time and follows K'Nara's lead. Fact is, with all the yelling, what he does hear is garbled, so instincts took over.
The elf jumps off the side of the tower following the leader, falling and quickly using his hands to slow his descent.(Slow fall 40ft) He picks up speed toward the last 10 feet of the tower and he rolls as safely as possible. (Tumble the last 10ft, tumble 20)
He looks up in time to watch the Old Meany take on the youngers. "Should we help?" Then grinning slightly, he looks at K'Nara. "If we do, who do we help?!" Not sure whether to help the old Green 'friend' whom they haven't seen in awhile and has been illusive, or the newcomers that would certainly not like us just on principle.
Olana Tuesday August 24th, 2004 1:23:33 AM
Olana sings softly to the horses, trying to keep their heads turned away from the sight of anything frightening, and she's VERY glad of Ingrge's help. So - three dragons now?
Glannath Tuesday August 24th, 2004 1:30:03 AM
Against his better instincts, Glannath had taken to the air again, in order to keep his companion in his sights. Glannath was big, a predator, and normally unafraid, but what approached was way ahead in the pecking order He is glad to see Athalorn returned. Time to be out of the dragons way.
Athalorn Tuesday August 24th, 2004 4:23:07 AM
The druid is glad of Glannath's company in the air, and just as glad when he manages to return to the tower in safety. He swoops down to the horses, and lands on the ground near Olana and Ingrge before changing back to human form.
He tries to shout above the noise. "I would like to help Parnoth in this, as those blues have destroyed many trees on their path. But I fear I would get my wings permanently clipped !"
Figment Tuesday August 24th, 2004 5:54:01 AM
The mage stands up against the tower and stands ready to realease the efreet. "I would say that we would do well to stay out of this...perhaps assist if it would seem Parnoth has trouble - but somehow I don't think the blues have a chance and they will know this...". He watches in awe at the sight of such incredible power.
Dragon Fight -- DM Donna d20=3 d20=2 d20=20 d20=13 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 9:06:20 AM
The Talons can only look on in awe and horror (such is that Aura that only Ancient Dragons can exude) as the Big Green fights the two obviously younger dragons over the skies of the Emerald Kingdom. As this aerial knock-down, drag-out unfolds, the trio of drakes gradually shift away from the Tower property...but since they are all so big (and the Talons can simply go back up to the roof for a better view if they wish) it is easy enough for the group to witness the entire combat:
The blues hiss and roar at Parnoth, seeming to taunt and jeer at him as they are clearly maneuvering for better strike positions. The Ancient Green, however, manages to keep the pair more or less in front of him as he replies in a no-nonsense roar of warning.
The blue on Parnoth's left seems to laugh and then breathes lightning, which Parnoth avoids most of the effects of, though the electricity clearly scores. As he does so, however, the blue on his right makes another "lightning" attack--a physicaly strike at lightning speed, that is...apparently the pair are trying to take advantage of the fact that Parnoth no longer has a right foreclaw, viewing it as a weakness to be exploited.
However, even as the second blue moves to seize the Green's arm, the golden replacement claw moves even faster and grabs the attacker by the throat--and Parnoth didn't even have to be looking at the foe!
Parnoth seems to hiss something sinister--indeed, chills run down the spine of everyone present, regardless of whether they understood Draconic or not--and the Ancient dragon literally rips the younger one to pieces in a most savage and brutal manner...blood, gore and dragon bits raining down onto the Culverwood beneath it.
The wind brings the awful smell to the noses of the Talons. (OOC: roll a Fortititude check versus DC15 or lose your lunch.)
The first blue--clearly not expecting the much, much older dragon to have had THIS much fight left in him--bravely turns his tail and runs (er, ah...flies) away.
Parnoth, however, is in no mood to be merciful. Hurling what's left of the carcass away from him (towards the Tower, ironically enough), the Green growls and flies after the other blue, catching up to it and rending it to pieces in much the same fashion as its partner.
Parnoth soars high above the Culverwood, bugling his triumph in an echoing affirmation of ownership--then he seems to disappear from sight. (OOC: make a Spellcraft check versus DC15 to realize that the dragon simply Teleported back to his palace.)
"By the gods!" K'Nara says, gagging as she almost vomits from the dead dragon stench in the air (OOC: her Fortitude roll was 13, but her plusses [which I forgot to add to the roll, duh!] means she manages to not vomit and add to the now-lovely atmosphere that surrounds the Tower area). "This stink will be with us for days...maybe even weeks!"
(OOC: two things of note--the first blue to get ripped apart has most of its parts relatively nearby to the south of the Tower; also, those PCs who can understand Draconic will get an email from me with the dialogue of the fight; I've also posted the translation as a DM post on this board as well.)
Athalorn d20+8=11 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 9:58:13 AM
The druid watches the battle in awe, and when the blue is ripped apart and the smell reaches the tower, promptly vomits near to the tethered horses. (Fortitude = 11)
"Sorry about that," he shouts, though everyone seems to be watching the spectacle unfold.
When Parnoth disappears, he waits a moment then turns to the others. "By the Culverwood, what was that all about???"
Falin d20+1=10 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 12:51:14 PM
As the stench enters the air Falin takes a few dry heaves as he sinks to his knees. "Such a smell..... I knew they were evil, but who would have thought they would smell evil...." Says Falin between heaves.
Ingrge fortitude d20+10=15 spellcraft d20+15=30 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 5:10:46 PM
With a few dry heaves, Ingrge manages to keep his most recent meal down, and turns to Olanna and Athalorn. Well, That was interesting. So Parnoth still has a few tricks up his sleeve.
I was not aware that other dragons were able to or had returned to Elenna. This could be something that does not bode well at all for us.
Lian d20+8=27 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 7:39:24 PM
"Ow! Nevermind, seems he doesn't need our help after all. Sheesh. We will have to clean this up too!" (Fort 27)
The elf answers Althalorn's question. "Friend druid, Parnoth's was protecting his territory from those two young drakes, whom thought they'de take advantage of his 'disability'. The one who got away is called Orvin."
"Yes new friends, that was Parnoth the Illusive and Enigmatic! Or simply, Ole Greeny."
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 24th, 2004 8:55:29 PM
Bertram sobered rapidly as the shock and stench hit him and his friends. He tries not to retch and grips his axe firmly and heads towards where the dragon so obviously was tossed.
Figment d20=13 d20+15=25 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 9:10:21 PM
The mage almost doesn't heave - but fails. Once he regains his composure he sees Parnoth clearly teleport away.
Gunther d20+7=21 Tuesday August 24th, 2004 9:53:12 PM
Gunther watches the battle with awe. Yep, definitely not something you see everyday. A piece of blue dragon intestine flops on his shoulder with an odd plop. The warrior's lunch, however stays firmly within his stomach...actually, to tell the truth, he'd smelled much worse. He listens with interest as the others relate what just happened. "So, that vas Parnoth...he's much bigger in life." Manages the big man as he heads over to the sight of the carcass with Brother Bertram. Looking it over, Gunther tries to determine whether there might be enough hide left to make a good suit of armor or two....
Olana d20+5=11 Wednesday August 25th, 2004 12:26:34 AM
"He knew their names," Olana whispers, turning as green as Parnoth. The poor elf 'tastes the rainbow'. "Oh my, I think... Ugh..."
Glannath Wednesday August 25th, 2004 12:28:41 AM
Perched nearby, the large eagle cocks his head toward Olana, somewhat puzzled as to why she would vomit like that when she had no chicks to feed.
Lucia Wednesday August 25th, 2004 4:34:55 PM *That was disgusting...*
Aftermath -- DM Donna d20=2 Wednesday August 25th, 2004 5:19:59 PM
K'Nara shakes her head--to her eyes, it looked as though Parnoth turned invisible (OOC: her Spellcraft roll is a measly 2!)
"I have no idea what that was about at all, Athalorn." she answers the druid, frowning thoughtfully. "Though we've promised to give the Great Green time to right the wrongs he's done to the natives of the Kingdom...his behavior certainly makes me suspicious." Her hazel eyes turn to Ingrge and Figment.
"Did you see as I did? He went after and attacked the one who was obviously quitting the battle--instead of showing mercy to one who was no longer attacking him." Again she frowns, then picks up on something Lian said.
"Orvin?" K'Nara echoes. "Why...you could tell what they were saying? What is it that Parnoth said???"
Lian Wednesday August 25th, 2004 7:38:29 PM
Lian looks sort of stunned at K'Nara's question, not quite picking up what she said fully.
"Orvin, yes. It is an antiquated language but I think it was the name he used. Draconic was commonly used in the monastery. Dragons were reveared for their power and their restraint, which was dogma for us. 'Power corrupts, but restraint is power.'" He stops a moment, trying to avoid the monastery philosophy.
"Truth be told, I'm not sure how I heard most of it."
Looking curiously at K'Nara, "Would you like to learn some of the dragon-tongue?"
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 25th, 2004 10:37:52 PM
Bertram snorts, "Pardon Friend Knara, but if I were attacked with such odds, I too would not have stopped until I knew I was no longer threatened. I am not a fan of The Old Green One but I cannot blame him for his actions."
Athalorn Thursday August 26th, 2004 5:20:36 AM
Almost recovered from the incident, Athalorn turns to find Glannath, ensuring his safety. He seees the bird perched near Olana, looking not at all concerned with events. Athalorn laughs, "I'm beginning to think nothing will phase you, old friend." He stroked the eagles head as he speaks.
OOC: Can anyone tell me how to type in italics on these boards? Or bold? Sorry to be a bit simple...
Figment (Fly) Thursday August 26th, 2004 6:12:33 AM
"Very true Bertram. If orcs attacked and began to flee I'd take out as many as I could before they got away just so they couldn't come back. Anyway, there's something more important to do right now. First of all, we need to go search what's left of those dragons as I imagine they have treasure. Second, we need to see if we can locate their lairs. Even young dragons have lairs. Not so many chances come along like this... you fighters could also get some dragon hide and scales for shields and armor. We should lay claim to these bodies immediately.". The mage doesn't wait for an answer, he begins flying toward the remains of the closest one. "We also ought to start some bonfires to eliminate the stench as quickly as possible. I don't relish the ambiance...". The mage begins to systematically search the bodies. Rings, necklaces, etc.
Olana d20+9=22 Thursday August 26th, 2004 11:48:59 AM
Olana tries to settle the horses and lead them back to the corral. ((Handle Animal DC 22)) "Figment, please be careful. Parnoth might claim any treasure as his own... oh." She watches the wizard fly off.
Curious, despite her rolling stomach, she'll go and have a look after their mounts seem safe enough.
Glannath Thursday August 26th, 2004 11:59:57 AM
The terror was over, and the lesson was learned - to keep a good eye on the sky.
Glannath's throat feathers fluff up in reaction to Athalorn's attention. Yep, nothing like a good throat tickle to settle things down. Mind you - He cocks his head toward the druid and then looks toward the stench. After all, there was a lot of fresh meat out there for the taking, and that wizard was going to get the best pieces.
((Simon try <i> </i>, but instead of <, use [ ))
Ingrge Thursday August 26th, 2004 8:44:35 PM
"Catching up to Figment, Ingrge speaks. I don't believe we are going to find much around these dragons. They were young and there is NO way they had a Lair around here. Parnoth would have not have stood for it." Not to mention that there are not supposed to be any other unknown dragons on the mainland. Something has gone very wrong I fear.
Lian Thursday August 26th, 2004 8:51:38 PM
"What now?"
Gunther Friday August 27th, 2004 1:04:59 AM
Gunther continues to check and see if there is enough hide left on the corpse to make suitable armor.
Hint, hint, hint. ;)
Falin Friday August 27th, 2004 2:59:21 AM
Falin goes along with the rest of the crew hoping to find some bone or teeth left.
"I had heard through some of my travels that you can make special arrows by using the bone or teeth of a dragon. I would like to try."
Olana Friday August 27th, 2004 1:26:29 PM
"We go and scavenge," Olana answers Lian with a wink, twirling two daggers theatrically in her hands.
Clean-Up Detail -- DM Donna d100=34 Friday August 27th, 2004 6:21:27 PM
K'Nara groans.
"Maybe sometime, Lian--but what I really want is know what Parnoth said just NOW..." the leader of the Talons says, exasperated, "...anyway--let's go catch up with the path of destruction...we need to try to clear away the...ex-dragons and see if anyone needs help because of those lightning strikes."
As the group checks out first the nearby dragon parts and then backtracks along the route the pair of invaders had taken into the Kingdom, they make several discoveries:
1. Ingrge's calculations about the blues are correct--they were really much too young to have acquired any real treasure--they had come seeking to exploit what they perceived to be Parnoth's weakness (i.e., the loss of his right claw.)
2. The local fey population is already working rapidly to dispel the foul odor left by the rended dragons...they are quick and hard workers, so the smell isn't going to be around for too long.
3. Lucky Gunther discovers enough blue dragon hide to possibly make a suit of armor. All he needs is someone with the appropriate skill to fashion the armor. There are plenty scales, bones...and even a rather intact dragon head, as well.
For the rest of the day, the Talons help out here and there, repairing damaged homes and aiding displaced natives of the Culverwood. This is the routine for the next few days, until K'Nara makes an announcement:
"We're going to Emerald City." she says. "We have to sell off the stuff we don't want...and we have to pick up some items that Lena says can only be found in the marketplaces there." The redhead holds up the list the interior decorator has given her.
And so it goes that the Talons are back on the road to Emerald City.
However, a mere league or two away from the outskirts of the metropolis--
...everyone must roll a Spot check versus DC15 and a Listen check versus DC15, too, in order to see something or hear something (or both) that will tip your PC off.
To what?
Heh heh.
Okay--make the rolls, and you'll either see that there is a suspicious overabundance of shrubbery very close to the road--shrubbery that isn't really native to this part of the Kingdom. Making the Listen check will reveal...no sound at all. Odd, even for being THIS close to the City--you should at least hear birds twittering and chipmunks scampering, etc. But there's nothing...
...IF you Listen.
Ingrge listen d20+6=11 spot d20+8=28 Friday August 27th, 2004 7:03:42 PM
Along the route to the city, Ingrge is too lost in thought to hear anyhing normal not to mention anything that isn't there,(listen 11) but as he walks along something does catch his eye. (Spot natural 20)
Lian d20+8=13 d100=49 Friday August 27th, 2004 8:05:36 PM
Moving along, the monk notices the strange lack of animals. But doesn't notice the odd shrubbery.
(Spot 13, Listen 49%[Last time Kent and I spoke of Lian's deafness, he said he was 90% deaf, so I rolled percentile])
OOC Kent: Jay as it has been a week or so and no loud noises have occurred aroundLian's vicinity, his hearing should now be at about 50 % or so. If nothing else evil occurs to his ears he should be at 90% in about 2 more game weeks. the last 10 percent may take a while or may never return.....
Falin d20+1=10 d20+1=14 Saturday August 28th, 2004 1:45:01 AM
Falin is too engrossed in looking at the ground on the way to the city that he hears (Listen 10) and sees (Spot 14) nothing.
Athalorn d20+18=24 d20+18=36 d20+14=19 Saturday August 28th, 2004 4:27:01 AM
Athalorn, unusually, decides to travel with the others on this journey on foot, rather than in the air. Besides, he always had Glannaths eyes and ears high up.
He easily notices the strangeness of the silence, (Listen = 24) and even more easily notices the unusual plants (Spot = 36) . He stops to approach some shrubs that he has never seen before. Lifting one in his hand, he smells it, trying to ascertain where it is from and why it is here in the Culverwood. (Knowledge, Nature = 19)
Gunther d20+1=3 d20+1=6 Monday August 30th, 2004 12:50:03 AM
Gunther smiles as he finds the remains in such good shape. He spends the next few days working on the skining and curing the dragon hide. Though the smell is aweful, Gunther goes about his work happily, knowing that it will make a magnificent present one day soon.
On the way into the the city, Gunther is too preoccupied about the impending armor smithing to notice anything out of the ordinary (Spot-3,Listen-6).
Olana d20+13=28 d20+12=24 d20+3=13 Monday August 30th, 2004 1:41:16 AM
"What about this dragon head?" ponders Olana amongst the dragon remains. "Might make a good garden ornament?" If its physically possible, she'll try and drag it back. (STR roll 13)
Spot 28 Listen 24
Days later, on the way to town, the elf points out things that seem a little strange. "That shrubbery doesn't look natural, and I can't hear anything, you know - birds singing and the like."
Brother Bertram d20=3 d20=1 Monday August 30th, 2004 4:34:10 AM
Bertram moves on obliviously, missing any signs of disturbance in the area. At Olana's words, Bertram removes his axe and watches more closely for any signs of trouble.
Figment d20=10 d20=6 Monday August 30th, 2004 6:44:01 AM
The mage is oblivious to the shrubs or the lack of noise. Must be that 'city living'... He contentedly rides Jux until they are pointed out. He decides to put down his reigns in case there is trouble.
This is a Stick...Up..? -- DM Donna d20=1 d20=3 Monday August 30th, 2004 4:58:57 PM
Olana gets some help from the feyfolk who are helping to...ah...fumigate the forest, and so the dragon head is transported to the Tower. Now all you need is the services of a good taxidermist.
Later, on the way to Emerald City, K'Nara is also amongst those who notices nothing until the intrepid ranger points out that the bushes don't appear to be native. As though to underscore Olana's announcement, an errant breeze blows a few of the leaves from off one of the bushes...and they smack K'Nara in her face.
"Hey..." she says as she at first angrily and then contemplatively whips them off and looks closely at them, "...guys...? These things are...paper...?"
"AhhhCHOO!" says one bush, rustling.
"Bless you." another one offers.
"Shut UP, already--they'll get suspicious!" barks another.
All in Common. And they don't sound like plant-type voices either.
K'Nara rolls her hazel eyes, points at Figment, Brother Bertram, Falin and Lian and then at the row of bushes on the group's right. She turns and indicates the lefthand bushes to the rest of the group...then she dismounts from Poki.
One of the bushes gives an exasperated groan and leaps out into the middle of the road--it's NOT a bush, obviously, but a human male who's covered with paper leaves. He clears his throat and reaches his right hand to his left hip.
"Stand...and deliver!" he orders, extracting a short fake branch with more paper leaves on it.
"Psst! Harry! You pulled off part of your disguise!" one of the other bushes hisses. The man drops his branch and gropes around several times as he tries to issue his ultimatum once more.
"S...stand...and...deliv--" Unfortunately by the time Harry the Wannabe Bandit has his longsword cleared of his scabbard, K'Nara already has her trusty blade under his chin.
"My, that's a big sword you have there, Harry," she says in an overly-chipper voice, "But...mine's bigger."
"W-we have arrows..." Harry declares with false and unconvincing bravado, "...arrows trained on each of you!"
K'Nara looks back over her shoulder to see exactly where her Talons are and what they are doing to neutralize the rest of the "bush league" (the majority of which are now shaking hard enough to dislodge even more fake leaves.)
Ingrge Monday August 30th, 2004 5:28:51 PM
having noticed the unbelievably well cameoflaged ambussh attempt Ingrge is already off Moon shadow and casting as K'nara beckons. In just moments there is a 5ft diameter flaming ball rolling along in front of Ingrge.
"Hey you know I though the bushes around here were supposed to be burnt back away from the road so no one could hide in them. As these bushes seem so very flamable, perhaps I will save parnoth the trouble and do it myself."
As he finishes speaking the ball of fire starts slowly rolling toward the left side of the road and the "bushes" over there.
Lian d20+13=14 d20+9=23 Monday August 30th, 2004 9:12:14 PM
"Oh... dear... did you hear that? I think we are going... to be... attacked..." The monks eyebrow raises as he stifles a laugh. He pats Merlot and simply hushes the horses winnie. Whispering to his horse, "It's ok friend, these fools have no idea..."
When arrows are declared openly, Lian dismounts and approaches the 'bushes' slowly.
Looking at Knara, Lian says, "Commander, are you going to kill this one too?" He makes a glance at the brush and trees, seeing if he can spot a number of brigands. (Spot 14, nat 1, Sense Motive 23)
"Oh, my. You wouldn't harm a young unarmed elf, would you?" Lian raises his hands over his head and moves forward a little more. He has NO visible weaponry.
Gunther Tuesday August 31st, 2004 1:38:02 AM
Gunther drops to his characteristic crouch at K'nara's hand signal and goes over to the left flank, his two-bladed sword at the ready. He begins to chuckle at the exchange between K'nara and their would be thieves.
Olana Tuesday August 31st, 2004 1:53:48 AM
As Gunther moves left, Olana moves right, readying her bow.
Falin Tuesday August 31st, 2004 2:29:39 AM
Falin pulls out his bow and knocks and arrow. "You mean arrows like this?" As he tracks onto the nearest brigand.
Athalorn Tuesday August 31st, 2004 4:33:39 AM
The druid smiles at the exchange of words. As he does, he pulls his spear from his back and points it in the direction of the bush he had approached to examine. The spear crackles with electrical energy, and he thrusts the point into the paper disguise of the nearest brigand.
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 31st, 2004 4:35:28 AM
Bertram peers at the strange sight before him and chuckles as the group responds to this 'threat'. He shifts his axe and moves towards one of the shaking bushes.
Figment Tuesday August 31st, 2004 5:58:30 AM
The mage snickers as he percieves the magnitude of the threat and decides to stay mounted. "Maybe we could pay them to go back to town and never try this again?".
Someone Has a Hot Time -- DM Donna d20=20 Tuesday August 31st, 2004 8:07:07 PM
"What's that?" one of the bushes asks as Ingrge's Flaming sphere rolls idly toward them.
"FIRE!" yells the closest bush, and the man literally jumps out of his leaves, scrambling backwards and falling down on his butt.
The others follow suit...or try to.
Meanwhile, K'Nara points out the obvious to Harry:
"Look--I just don't think this should be your chosen profession, Harry." she says. "You just don't seem to have the...luck required."
"We were doing okay..." Harry sullenly insists, even as one of his less-dexterous comrades begins running back and forth, his fake leaves smoldering, "...until you guys came by! Just who do you think you are, anyhow--the Emerald Talons???"
The flaming bandit runs by again, hollering.
"As a matter of fact--" K'Nara says, only to be interrupted by the fiery unfortunate, whose bandit buddies were tripping over themselves yet unable to put out the flickering flames that were threatening to envelop him.
"Oh, for the love of the gods!!!" the leader of the Talons groans, kicking her foot out and tripping the panicky bandit so that he sprawled at her feet (OOC: made a natural 20 on that roll.) Then she whipped off her cloak and dropped it over the smoking human.
"You have to smother th--" she no sooner tells the others this when there is a sudden dogpile on the man on the ground, who grunts and "oofs" as each of his fellows lands on him.
"Get up--get UP--you'll crush him to death!" K'Nara snaps, rolling her eyes once more. The bandits peel themselves off the ex-fire victim, who slowly regains his feet (rather unsteadily) and gives the redheaded warrior back her cloak.
"Thanks..." he says, then nods at Harry. "We don't normally come this close to the City...it's just that we've...um...robbed everyone in our hamlet...so we needed to do new routes...and the army was pulled back into the City itself so we thought the main road was ripe for the picking..."
"Shut up, Rex!" Harry snaps, but he's more pouty than angry.
"Look--we've tried jumping 'em from behind--we did the 'injured guy in the middle of the road'...and I just nearly became roasted alive..." Rex says, "We've only gotten 18 silver pieces and a ball of twine for our trouble! Let's just go back home and forget this 'swashbuckling bandit' thing, okay? It's NOT working!"
"Go." K'Nara says, replacing Lucia and hooking her thumb away from Emerald City. "Get on back to where you came from--and if I ever hear that you've tried this stuff on ANYone ever again...I'll let those Emerald Talons know all about it! THEN you'll be sorry!"
This galvanizes the rest of the bandit troupe to just turn tail and bravely run away. Harry finally goes with Rex, muttering about fame and fortune all the way.
"Now...if there is no longer any vicious plant life in our way...shall we go to Emerald City..?" K'Nara asks her comrades, laughing as she remounts her trusty horse.
Lian Tuesday August 31st, 2004 9:32:48 PM
"As for that 18 silver and the twine you collected... it just so happens that the Ambush Tax for this road is 18 silver. The orphans could use these monies."
"Perhaps finding an actual job might be a good thing for you."
Figment Tuesday August 31st, 2004 9:45:59 PM
The mage just sits on Jux, not sure what to do. He just waits for K'Nara to get the group back underway.
Ingrge Tuesday August 31st, 2004 10:08:51 PM
Letting the flaming ball follow along behind the fleeing wannabes, Ingrge chuckles. "That was almost fun... then he scowls and goes back to Moon Shadow.
Athalorn Wednesday September 1st, 2004 3:29:08 AM
Looking up to the sky, to ensure that Glannath is still with him, Athalorn keeps hold of his spear and follows the rest of the group.
Falin Wednesday September 1st, 2004 11:05:53 AM
With a slight smile crossing his face, Falin places his arrow back in his quiver and shoulders his bow.
Lucia Wednesday September 1st, 2004 11:08:32 AM *"I think you have gotten soft now that you have a home. You could have taken them.* K'Nara can detect a hint of a smile on her words.
K'Nara Wednesday September 1st, 2004 2:35:30 PM
"Yeah, yeah..." she mutters out loud, "...I'm a real softie--choosing not to beat down a bunch of nearly-defenseless rubes." Checking to see that the other Talons are all ready to continue, K'Nara clucks to Poki and begins to trot towards the gates of the City.
Gunther Wednesday September 1st, 2004 3:25:02 PM
The warrior smiles and wishes that all conflicts could be dispelled as easily as this one...mind you, not that he wasn't up to a good fight or two. Just sometimes he wonders what his life would have been like if he hadn't taken up adventuring... He might have even found a nice orc lady to cuddle up with and start a family. But then he thinks back to his "family" and upbringing and shakes his head. No, things were the way they were on purpose. This was the way it was meant to happen.
Having no mount of his own, Gunther travels behind the other on foot, rather enjoying his stroll into town.
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 1st, 2004 6:06:56 PM
Bertram watches the figures of the would-be bandits disappearing into the distance, "Pity we dont have a bard to immortalize us all with a song of our bravery at 'The Battle of Burning Bush'."
The gates...(ADM Jay B) Wednesday September 1st, 2004 7:21:41 PM
As the band of pathetic brigands disperse, the Talons all remount and continue toward the city gate.
Coming upon the gate, the Talons may recognize the guards on duty. Their the same slack-jawed morons that were giving the blind old lady some trouble.
As the Talons stop at the gate, the lead guard steps forward, grinning and snickering to his friends. One guard points at Lian, and the other stifles his laughter. One very grumpy looking guard seems very intent on watching Olana and Ingrge. The lead gate guard starts in on his speel. "What is your business in the City?"
Ingrge Wednesday September 1st, 2004 8:26:34 PM
You know, If our business were your business then perhaps you would have the right to know. Of course if you were aware of what your business was, we wouldn't have had to break up a bunch of brigands that tried to waylay us just around the bend of the road. Now move out of our way before My friend whom you are pointing at loses his temper and I get down right mad. That said he rides forward and if any of the guards tries to stop his horse, Ingrge will ride him down.
Gunther Wednesday September 1st, 2004 10:52:59 PM
The warrior giggles at Ingrge's harsh words...certainly not what he imagined from an elf. It seemed that the Wold was full of surprises. Looking at the guards, Gunther simply states the truth. "Do not mind my friend here... he is just a little grumpy from almost being robed. Ve are here to do a simple bit of shopping. Dat is all."
Olana Thursday September 2nd, 2004 12:20:12 AM
"Good morning!" says Olana breezily to the guards, intent on following Ingrge through the gate.
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