Justin Webber (Co-DM) Ice Peak Village Monday December 13th, 2004 7:02:27 PM
The day has passed by slow and night has began to fall on the village of Ice Peak Village. The stir of the day slowly winding down as many of the really young kids and adults alike know that tomorrow is the day that the kids old enough would be tested to be adults.
Smoke and some steam slowly rises from all of the tents that make up the village and the ice/snow wall that surrounds the village blocks most of the wind off from the village. Snow was non existant today and no clouds or sign of it had been in the sky all day or so far into the night.
The crackling of the snow and the ice outside are the only things that can be heard beyond the mix of the wind holwing and the wolves howling. Many stories were passed in the village of the wolves that populate the hills around Ice Peak and specially since wolves were the primary meat and shelter source for the village. Every tent in the village was made of stitched wolf hides and many of the clothes people wore in the village was also made of wolf skins. Of course the ocassional polar bear would wonder into the area along with various other animals but the wolves were the main source of problems, food and survival in this area.
No matter now on any of the noises. Night watchman were up and keeping a eye out for wolves or other problems and tomorrow was a big day for all the village and specially those who would be tested.
(OOC:Okay people, starting the game for all of you who have charactersheets in and ready. Lets get rolling and those who have yet to finish charactersheets hurry and get them in please :) I know this post gives you all little to post to really but it gives you a feel for my posting style and more to come so looking forward to gaming with you all.)
Frigg'Isa Monday December 13th, 2004 7:44:52 PM
Frigg'Isa walks slowly and quietly through the light powder of falling snow. Her head is high, and although she passes a few others, she does not acknowledge them. Those who look closely can tell that she does not even see them. Tonight Frigg'Isa's thoughts are elsewhere.
I should go get some sleep. Tomorrow will be here before I know it and I don't think I want it to come. Does that make me a coward or just smart?
A small smile tugs at the corners of her lips, but she quickly supresses the full smile. Blinking a few times she takes stock of where she is in the village. Looking around she realizes that her feet have taken her home of her free will.
Moving quickly, she opens the hide door and passes through quickly so as not to let either the heat out or the cold in. Sitting down next to the fire, Frigg'Isa pulls out her equipment.
It can't hurt to go through this one more time.
Garrett Jax Tuesday December 14th, 2004 8:57:01 AM
Garrett sits inside his home, sharpening his sword again, after checking all his equipment once more. things have been packed, unpacked, and repacked too many times to count. Finally he looks at his blade, sheaths it, and begins pacing the room.
Will this day never end, it feels like a month since the last sunset.
Garrett begins packing up everything for the final time, prepares for bed and lays down to stare at the ceiling.
I'm too excited to sleep. This day has been too long in coming. It's time to prove I have the courage and ability to back up my beliefs......just don't screw up Garrett, don't screw up.
Garrett says a prayer to Domi, then turns over and tries to fade off to sleep. several hours later, he succeeds.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday December 14th, 2004 9:09:44 AM
Bohdi's tent was filled with a cacophony of snores, snorts, and grunts. The gnome lay splayed across his cot, a forgotten half-finished glass of ice wine cradled in the hand that hung off the side of the cot. A gnome-sized pack sat, half-full, next to the bed, and a pile of alchemical bowls and tubes was heaped next to that. As the gnome slept, loud snores would erupt from his prodigious nose. His raven would fly down occasionally to peck at his face and force the gnome to roll over, silencing the snores for a time before they would recommence.
Other than the sputters and snorts of the sleeping gnome and the pecking of the annoyed corvid, nothing stirred in the domed tent at the edge of the encampment; Bohdi passed the night in the Sleep of the Terminally Clueless.
Nauthiz'Ull Tuesday December 14th, 2004 9:25:47 AM
The brisk evening air leaves a scratchy feelinngin the back of Nauthiz'Ull's throat. Tonight he is playing his usual games. As the sun lowers the ice walls around the village glisten with myriad colors; blue, green, purple, pink and the occassional orange are caught irregularly in the corner of his eye. This is too easy! If we leave tracks like this out on our test, we might as well just stick our head in a dire wolf's mouth and tell him to enjoy! The last few days have kept Nauthiz'Ull on his toes and has kept his mind racing. On more than one occassion he has lost the contents of his stomach due to the nerves building up inside. The ground crunches slightly under his feet as he kneels down to look at the tracks left by his prey. With the fresh powder, that was blown into the village a mere hour ago, laying on the ground the prey he is stalking would prove easy for even Bohdi to follow. Nauthiz'Ull chuckles to himself and watches the puff of steam float from his mouth. Well tomorrow I fail. Tomorrow it is proven that I will never equal Pappa.Forgive me now Ull'Heimdall as I will dishonor you tomorrowRouunding a familiar hut without thinking, nauthiz almost stumbles onto his prey, but gathers himself and hides quickly as the adrenaline snaps him back to reality. Watching carefully he sees his prey enter its den...then Nauthiz'Ull moves in quickly. Sneaking to the enterance he ramains calm, even with his heart still racing from the adrenaline and quietly moves past the point of entry. "Heya Sis! Whatchya up to?" As he slides into the wolfskin tent that his sister, Frigg'Isa and he shares, he kicks off the snow from his boots. Looking at his sister he realizes her thoughts are elsewhere. "What's on your mind kid?"
Aiden Tuesday December 14th, 2004 10:00:44 PM
Aiden took a moment to pull back the tent flap, it's handle...a misshapen wolven ear that a tear upon it, and looked outside. He was nervous, though his frown would not indicate it. Just a short time ago, the elder who had captured him had passed into the afterlife, easily defeating him in battle. The battle had been his prior test of adulthood, to raid the village he had now been a part of for approximately a year now.
The others from Twin Tusks had left, victorious, and he was the only one to be taken prisoner. He had been caught unawares, and defeated by an elder who was well into his years.
For the past year, he had served the village that his former friends had sought to plunder and light afire as a test of manhood.
Now he was being tested once again. Strange...as he took a deep breath of the cold air, the air almost bursting into his warm lungs, causing a shiver to run its course through his tall, muscular form. Over his apprenticeship with the elder, he had come to see that there WAS more beyond blood and battle.
Though the thought of the song of his large axe cutting through the air did stir his blood. One day, he'd return to Twin Tusks to have a little discussion with those who had left him behind. One in particular he was looking forward to seeing, one who he had once considered a brother....
He ran his callused hand across his face which was now starting to grow facial hair more quickly, and the rudimentary beard had begun to form. He needed to get back to sleep for the next few days were going to test him brutally.
And Aiden was NOT going to fail this time...and though his native village would not recognize it, the next time he would enter Twin Tusks...it would be as a man. The flap of the tent fell back into its normal resting place as the young man re-entered his home to rest comfortably, within the furs he had helped to capture and prepare, for the rest of the evening.
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Morning Drums Wednesday December 15th, 2004 1:45:13 AM
Night slowly passed by, most trying to get some sleep, other talking possibly abit before finally finding their beds waiting. The night still passes by slow for those who find sleeping hard.
Morning finally comes though for those wanting it and maybe to soon for others. The day light had just began to shine outside when the hustle of the village begins. Guards were being switched, food began to be cooked and daily life was beginning once again.
A new sound though starts to flood the billage though and as traditionally done for many years now everyone began to head for the center of the village and gather. In the center of the village in the middle of the crowd of people who have formed are a pair of ladies who beat a slow rythem on a pair of drums. The steady pounding noise spreads throughout the village and is almost deafning in the center of the village where everone has or is gathering. in between the two drummer ladies is a single lady wearing pure white wolf furs made from a winterwolf and in her hand for this ceramony is a staff of bone.
The lady in the center is remarkably tall and heavily muscled. Her hair which is normally tied back in a pony tail is hidden now though in the winter wolf cloak hood that she has pulled up. Even for all the muscle and her age though the lady is beautiful and stands out among the ladies in the center of the village rather they be young or old. Everyone knows that this woman is their leader Karya.
Garrett Jax Wednesday December 15th, 2004 8:04:51 AM
Garrett gathers his equipment and heads to the center of the village, not sure if we will be heading out immediately or not.
As he makes his way to the sound of the drums, he does his best to look relatively unconcerned, even though very excited.
He moves into the throng of people crowding the area, and waits for Karya to begin the ceremony.
Nauthiz'Ull (the boy) Wednesday December 15th, 2004 10:25:39 AM
As night crept by, Nauthiz'Ull slept sporadicaly. Nightmares broke his sleep several times, waking him in sweat soaked furs. Looking over at his sister, he was not sure if she slept or lay awake, due to the dark blue of the night. Up for a time before the sunrise, Nauthiz'Ull prepared as best as he could for the trip. He doned the grey wolven clothes as normal and went outside for a stroll in the village before the ceremonies were to begin. Today I find out me weaknesses. Today I show everyone that I am a faliure. Father, I am sorry for what may come in the next couple of days, I hope you will see me as a man. Nauthiz'Ull walks along the ice-wall that surrounds the village and listens to the slight moaning of wind rushing over it. Soon the drums will come and soon it will be time. The air is fresh this morning, hopefully the sky will stay as clear as the air. I cannot imagine what we must do, but I must help Frigg'Isa survive. She is the one who can keep honor in the family. After a length of time Nauthiz'Ull returns to the tent and waits for his sister to wake. He will walk with his closest friend and twin sister to the gathering once she has woken and the drumming has begun.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday December 15th, 2004 11:33:46 AM
Bohdi awoke to a pounding headache. His temples throbbed with a steady beat, each pulse a renewed agony.
Bohdi groaned and twisted in his bed. He felt something lashing his cheeks, like the bristles of the stiff bear-fur brushes that his mother used on him and his siblings earlier in his youth. The bristles were sharp, too, and occasionally one would poke his nose or the side of his face. Sluggishly, Bohdi waved a hand to push the brush away. His eyes still squeezed shut, he slurred, "No, mother, I'll brush myself, I just wann'a lay here a few more minutes...."
Bohdi moaned again. It was like a whole village full of drums were pounding inside his head. The bristles returned again, poking even more insistently. He whined. "No, Ma, it was only a little ice wine, really. I'll be fine--jus' give me a minute...."
The brush's bristles poked him sharply in the eye and Bohdi screamed. He sat upright, clutching his wounded eye, and peered out dimly with the other. The pounding in his head continued and seemed to grow even louder, surrounding him and filling the tent with noise. On his lap, Squork was flapping and cawing, hopping up into the air on a level with Bohdi's face. The raven's stiff wing feathers beat against his face as the raven nipped and pecked at Bohdi's nose. With his free hand, Bohdi swiped at the bird.
"I'm up, I'm up," he said crossly, and then, "Waaauuggh." He clutched his ears and rocked back and forth. The pounding drumbeat in his head was excruciating.
"Oh, gods," he muttered, as he hopped down from the cot. "Must they always play those blasted drums?"
He looked about his tent, at the piles of materials that he had intended to finish packing in the morning, and cursed. Hastily--if gingerly--he stuffed items at random into his pack. Tubes, bowls, and an oversized book bulged at the pack's sides and peeked over its flap. With a final shove and a heave, Bohdi thrust the bag onto his shoulders and stumbled his way out of the tent flaps.
He cursed again as the bright morning light assailed his reddened eyes. Squork flew up out of the smoke hole in the tent's roof and cawed, before wheeling off in the sky toward the village center. Grumbling and cursing, Bohdi followed.
The gnome clutched the sides of his head as he neared the center. A club that might have once been a villager's crude mallet hung from his waist, and a miniature dagger was thrust into his belt on the opposite side. Slung alongside his overflowing pack was a gnome-sized crossbow and a slender quiver of bolts. But for all of that, Bohdi looked totally unprepared for what would come next, and the misery palpable on his countenance only heightened the impression.
Sullenly, Bohdi took his place next to the others, his bloodshot eyes lowered and his hands holding his temples as if they were weakened dikes. "Morning," he mumbled gracelessly to the others. It sounded less like a salutation than a curse.
Frigg'Isa Wednesday December 15th, 2004 2:53:12 PM
Frigg'Isa lay in her sleeping furs a moment longer, savoring the warmth and dreading the rise. Today was going to be the beginning of her new life...her adult life. If she survives the trial, that is.
A rustle at the flap alerts Frigg'Isa to the return of her brother. She had already seen that he had disappeared this morning. His tossing and turning the night before had woken her a few times and she knew that he had not slept well.
Rolling over onto her stomach, she props herself up on her arms and watches him enter the tent. When he let in a bit of the cold air, Frigg'Isa sighs and throws back her furs. Standing she stretches up high trying to put a few more inches in her back.
I know I'll never be as tall as Nauth, but it doesn't hurt to try!
This time when the smile comes she doesn't try to hide it.
"Hey Big Brother. Looks like you got up early this morning. I hope you've got everything packed. The drums should be starting soon."
About that time a deep pounding begins. Frigg'Isa could feel it in her bones. Her breath began to match the beating and she had to give herself a little shake.
"See?"
Frigg'Isa looks at her packed and repacked equipment and sighs. She turns and begins to change for the trial. After onning her warmest clothing she bundles up her blanet furs and attaches them to her backpack. After belting her various pouches into place around her waist, she hefts the pack to her back.
While she waits on Nauthiz'Ull to finish getting ready, she pulls out her Spirit Dagger and looks it over closely to make sure it is in good shape. When her brother is ready, she exits their tent and makes her way toward the drumming.
Nauthiz'Ull Wednesday December 15th, 2004 8:15:43 PM
Upon entering the tent, Nauthiz'Ull smiles quickly to his sister. "Heya kid. I hope you slept better than I did." He then proceeds to fix up his "bed" area and round up what he thinks is important to bring, which ends up being everything. "Can't be too careful you know. I am not good enough to survive like dad did, I need things." With his final words catching in the back of his throat, Nauthiz'Ull and Frigg'Isa both hear the sounds of the drumming in the center of the village. "Looks like it's our time Isa...we should go. Besides, Bohdi is probably complaining already and we need to keep him in line around Karya." With that the twins head out into the invigorating yet biting morning air. As they walk, Nauthiz'Ull puts his arm around Frigg'Isa's shoulder, and an unnerving silence falls upon him.
Aiden Wednesday December 15th, 2004 10:07:14 PM
In a hazy world, Aiden watched as a large group of barbarians screamed at each other, strange and frightening men, and some even less than man (ork), banging against each others' shields and weapons. Turning, he saw some almost recognizable figures waving their axes and swords about, froth starting to speck the corner of their mouths and lips. Turning yet again, he could see, painfully slowly, the various barbarians begin to step towards the side, lowering their heads even as sadistic gleam began to spark their eyes. Stepping forward, he moved towards the center...more stepping to the side even as his own feet marched in cadence with the drums. Soon...he stood just before a large pyre, which had several forms that were hacked to pieces. They could have been almost anything, but they were mangled so much, that they were unrecognizable. Then the sounds of primal screams began to fill his 'ears' and he raised his hand to throw something, something that had the weight of a stone, maybe two even. "MAN MAN MAN..." started the crowd...And there was a thump as he saw the head of the elder that had taken him in roll across the other corpses, his own hand (and axes that hung by his side) blood stained.
"NO!!!" as he started awake from his dream, his eyes slowly adjusting to the light, his ears to the thumping of the drums.
~weak fool...~ he thought to himself. Taking his large callused hand, he wiped his face of the sweat that had come from the evening, or more specifically the nightmare. "it is time..." his voice rumbled to himself as he stood up, and his sight fell upon the furs and other items he would need this day, including a vicious double headed axe...the one item that he 'inherited' and actually valued, from the man who had captured (and raised) him.
He then began to don his clothes, and then his armor...a leather armor that carried the studs of metal that was found and embedded into the leather. He picked up his hardened leather skull cap which had fur that had been attached to the inside of the helm as additional padding, but draped down his neck and shoulder to provide protection against the elements. This seemed to almost complement the fur padding that had been placed around his shoulders as a form of cloak of some sorts. His fur lined, leathery boots and gloves were put on.
Flexing his hands, he could almost feel the strained snap, and crackle as the blood began to flow through, and the anticipation began to build. Picking up his large axe as well as the smaller, more utilitarian throwing axes, he made sure that the edge was still keen, and then put them into their proper places. Finally, he grabbed his backpack that had the appropriate rations and survival equipment. He knew this day was going to be special, so it was best to be prepared.
He had been caught unawares twice a year ago...causing him embarrassment, and in some ways the loss of adulthood. The same would not happen again....
And with the final buckle being clicked into place, Aiden exitted his tent. The tall broad shouldered young man with the blondish hair and beginnings of a beard carrying an 'ugly' double bladed axe stepped forward towards his destiny.
Justin Webber Wednesday December 15th, 2004 11:07:21 PM
(OOC: Heads pounding tonight and causing some problems staring at the screen at the moment so the post may be delayed. There will be one come morning at the latest. I do notice we only have 5 people posting out of 7 players I believe. One of the remaining two is having computer problems so what is up with the last person?)
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Gathering d20+8=26 Thursday December 16th, 2004 10:33:22 AM
As each person makes his/her way to the center of the village where the village is gathering for the ceramony that is coming and the beginning of the test they are greeted by many of the village adults, young kids who in a few years will be taking their own trial and such.
Friends of each person comes up and claps him/her on the shoulder and smiles as they speak to the person and many "Good lucks...Go for it.....you can do it's" and other comments are heard.
A older woman, back bent now as she approaches each of you looks to each of you saddly before speaking, "My daughter....she left for her trial many years back now and never returned. I miss her greatly and you all are like family to me too so please return safe." The old woman lays a kiss on each persons cheeck, having some troubles with the tallest of you.
A couple other people get a quick suprise also. A young barbarian man walks up to Frigg'Isa, she should knows the man as one of the previous years kids who became a adult after passing his test. Frigg'Isa remembers the man's name as Da'Gral and he has spent some time kind of watching her and even tried talking to Frigg'Isa once but he got all tongue tied. Da'Gral today seems to have his tongue working better as he speaks but his words come out very fast and nervous, "You know Frigg'Isa, as a adult your finally able to be married in the village." With that said though Da'Gral runs off into the crowd.
Bohdi Nackle also is met by someone, the man who runs the bar like tent and serves food and such. The big barbarian man leans down and speaks to Bohdi slowly, "Better become a adult today little guy. I don't want to have to sneak ice wine out to you anymore. You'll actually beable to come in and get it yourself." Bohdi can remember becoming pretty good friends with this man, his name was Gra'ul and he was a ox of a man, beefy, strong and just as hard headed but the man also had a heart of gold and he loved kids. Infact to Gra'ul kids were his only weak spot and he was known to try and give a present to them when giving day came (Giving Day is alot like Christmas if your wondering.)
The last person to meet someone is Aiden. Aiden as he walks to the meeting sees a very tall, very brawny looking barbarian step out to meet him. This barbarian had a large axe laid across one shoulder and he squinted at Aiden, "You survive this....faith has man that raised you...."I" his best friend will be very angry if you not succeed...do proud or me do worse on you." The tall barbarian slams a fist (touch attack hit AC:26) into Aiden's shoulder but not hard enough to actually injure beyond maybe a bruise and he grins to Aiden. Aiden could swear in that moment in the tall barbarian's eyes there is hope for Aiden and that the barbarian even knows touch and not very showy on careing is rooting fo Aiden to make it and back.
Once everyone is greeted and finally make it to the center of the crowd you see another adult barbarian running to sit next to the drummers. The adult is scrawny though and holds a bone flute in his hands that looks like it has been worked on for many months.
Bohdi Nackle Thursday December 16th, 2004 1:59:44 PM
Bohdi listened to Gra'ul with a wan smile. "Had enough ice wine for now, thanks," he answered weakly, and shook the man's hand.
Bohdi shuffled his feet idly and looked about for a few moments as the drumming continued. Finally, with an impatient huff, he sat down unceremoniously and pulled the leather-bound tome from his backpack. "Might as well make use of the time," he muttered.
He began thumbing through the pages as the ceremony continued, peering up occasionally and only long enough to maintain a polite, but clearly divided, attention on the proceedings. A snort of interest or apparent humor would escape his lips at times as he retraced a familiar rune. With each page, Bohdi subvocalized a few words in an arcane tongue, his voice breaking into otherworldly, harmonic chords. He traced a few patterns in the air and strange symbols appeared to hang there momentarily, glowing with an eldritch power, before growing translucent and disappearing once more.
Appearing satisfied after a time, Bohdi closed the book with a grunt, replaced it in his bag, and stood once more. He looked at the others.
"Well?" he queried. "The sooner that we go--the sooner that we can be done."
ooc: Justin and Daniel, not knowing how you want me to let you know about prepared spells for the day, here's what Bohdi's got--it's exactly what I put on his original character sheet:
Nauthiz'Ull Thursday December 16th, 2004 2:47:02 PM
As his sister and the others are greeted by someone other than the elderly woman who smells of ice cabbage, a fire bursts in Nauthiz'Ull's eyes at the sight of Da'Gral and his cheeks are flushed a purplish color with what is said to Frigg'Isa. How dare he approach her with those words on the day of Raidho! He is smart to flee back into the crowd. As Nauthiz'Ull makes his way to the others he walks up and stands next to his friend Bohdi. Looking down at the nonchalant gnome that has held Nathiz'Ull's humor since the day he came into the village, Nauthiz'Ull smirks slightly and pat him on the shoulder. "Or the sooner we all die wunjo. You should count yourself lucky that you are heading out with me." Nauthiz'Ull then stands up tall, straightening his back and scratches the quickly thickening stubble on his cheeks. A pride that most children could not possibly possess replaces the fire in his eyes with humility. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OOC: wunjo roughly translates to friend or brother/sister
Bohdi Nackle Thursday December 16th, 2004 4:34:17 PM ooc: Hopefully I'm not posting 'out of turn.' The site's official rules say one post per day, weekdays only, no more, no less. But I figure that's meant (i) as a minimum rate, and (ii) to limit over-posting in time-sensitive circumstances like combat or NPC interaction. I'm hoping doesn't really mean to stifle PC conversation, as here. Daniel and Justin, just let us know if you don't want me to post more than once a day in non-combat situations like this.
BTW--I will be out of town tomorrow, Friday the 17th.
Bohdi favored Nauthiz'Ull with a half-grimace. "Now there's a cheerful thought, wunjo. And I thought I was the resident optimist."
He cast a sidelong glance at Frigg'Isa. In a voice loud enough to carry down the line to her, he added, needling, "Hey, Nauthiz'Ull, that Da'Grunt's really got a way with the ladies."
Frigg'Isa Thursday December 16th, 2004 7:50:34 PM
Walking with her brother's arm across her sholders and her arm around his waist, Frigg'Isa feels a comfortable and companionable sensation. The greetings of others and their well-wishes increases that feeling. However, no one sees it through the blank mask she wears. She nods and acknowledges the villagers thoughts, but naught else.
When Da'Gral greets her she is prepared for well wishes, not what she received. A brief break in her mask occurs and surprise flashes across her face. She instinctivly tightens her arm around Nauth's waist in the hopes of stopping him if runs after the forward young man.
Marriage? Marriage?!?! I've never even thought about marriage. There's too much out there to do. And marriage means kids. I don't want a bunch of kids right now. Maybe later...maybe later.
Friga continues to walk on, but now not listening at all the others wishes. When Nauth breaks away from her and moves to stand by Bohdi, she moves a bit farther down the line away from the two boys.
Hearing Bohdi's remark, she ignores him completely and faces Karya and waits.
Garrett Jax Thursday December 16th, 2004 8:08:08 PM
Garrett accepts the villagers well wishes with thanks and general humility. He leaves his father and moves toward the center of the group telling his father he'll see him in a few days.
Garrett takes his position next to his friends and awaits the words of Karya.
Well, he whispers, you all ready?
Aiden Thursday December 16th, 2004 11:44:38 PM
Aiden tried not to flinch or even budge when the larger (?) man struck him. It was a typical action that he had seen many times at his old village.
He gave a simple nod in acceptance of the well wishing (and warning) that the man had given. And once the message (albeit a silent one) is conveyed, he'll then move to listen to the elders...
A Great Gathering [Co-DM Daniel K] Friday December 17th, 2004 3:11:38 PM
The drums, Thoom Boom, thoom boom pound in continuous rhythm rising to a cacophony no one in the party imagined possible before in such open ground. No sooner does Bohdi sit to disengage himself from the proceedings, then do rough hands find the scruff of Bohdi's collar, hauling him clear of the ground. Gra'ul then plants Bohdi roughly on his feet facing the Monolith. The glare of disciplining a child in his eyes, he barks at the small gnome he towers over and to the other 6 children "You will show respect little ones." He steps back, though not far, and nods to a small group now gathered some 15' in front of you all.
Four individuals have stepped forward in thick white cloaks of Winter Wolf hide. Each wears a deadly Falx plainly at their side, a wicked reverse curved scimitar. The Villages shaman and high priest of Domi, a woman named Svanhvít steps forward to join the four figures and place a large copper kettle upside down at the feet of one of them. The drums thunder on Thoom, Boom, thoom, boom
Kayra steps up onto the upturned large Copper kettle pot, her steel shod war boots purposefully ring a clear long note and as she shifts her weight upon the kettle the note drags into the horizons echo. There is no mistake the ceremony has now truly begun. The throng pulls back slightly as those seven about to undergo the test find themselves very much the center of all eyes. Beneath the unwavering gaze of Kayra and against the backdrop of the great Monolith of Domi. The drums begin again in a slow methodical rhythm. Boom, rap, b-boom, rap, b-boom, rap
Kayra's voice rings out across the crowd. "The Longr Nott Ungmenni, the Long Night of Youth, is ended. Now gather to me my people and stand proud with each other. Stand tall, arm in arm, as one and look upon our future and bestow upon them your blessing!"
Kayra again calls out to the village over the low rhythmic beating of the ever present drums, the power her mere voice commands undeniable. "In ancient times, we were a desolate and troubled people. No more!, We are people of strength, of celebration and perseverance. As was set by the Pjód-björg Varr-uðr Varr-Grar-Storr-Amma!"
The crowd calls 'Hail Pjód-björg Varr-uðr Varr-Grar-Storr-Amma, People's Salvation, our beloved, our gray great grandmother!"
Kayra then continues, "This day our youth will begin the Raun-Aldr Eda Iss! The Test of Age and Ice! They will journey North towards Búrfell to find and retrieve the Red Flower of Kelda-Sigr!"
The village again calls out. "Spring's victory!"
"For 6 days these seven will be in the domain of Celsiun!"
The Crowd breaks in "Ás-Iss, Ás-Snjar!"
"May they return to us wiser and ready to begin your lives as adults!"
The drumming continues...Kayra steps down and Svanhvít steps upon the kettle to speak, her voice to commands an authority from all who hear, but she speaks soley to the seven gathered directly before her "It is time for the Umbud. The Preparation of your physical being and souls. Go now and gather that which you wish to take with you and return here when the shadow of Domi's hand touches the entrance to my tent." Svanhvít then steps down and walks down the line of the seven, stopping to place her thumb on each of their foreheads. She says a soft prayer in a tongue unfamiliar to all as she does so. The crowd waits for Svanhvít, Kayra and the other two, whose identities you could only guess at depart and they then too melt away leaving you standing alone in front of Domi's Monlith. The sun shining brightly in the azure sky, the shadow some two hours long before it reaches Svanhvít's Tent.
Frigg'Isa Friday December 17th, 2004 8:46:30 PM
Frigg'Isa looks at the boys standing there with her.
I wonder how we are really going to do out there. Look at us!"[/i}
"I'm going back to my tent to double check all my things one more time. I'll see you at Svanhvit's tent at the appointed time."
Friga hurries back to the tent she shares with her brother before breaking into tears.
[i]Look at them? Look at me! What will I be able to do to help the group? I can cast a couple of spells and I'm decent with a sling, but beyond that I'm useless!
Frigg'Isa quickly dries off her face and composes herself in case her brother returns soon. She doesn't want him to see that she has been crying.
Once more Frigg'Isa unpacks and repacks her backpack and pouches making sure she leaves nothing behind. She quickly strips down and puts on her leather armor underneath her warm furs.
Frigg'Isa prepares a warm herbal tea for herself and Nauthiz'Ull in case he returns to the tent. She sets his near the fire to help keep it warm.
Frigg'Isa Friday December 17th, 2004 8:47:29 PM
Frigg'Isa looks at the boys standing there with her.
I wonder how we are really going to do out there. Look at us!"
"I'm going back to my tent to double check all my things one more time. I'll see you at Svanhvit's tent at the appointed time."
Friga hurries back to the tent she shares with her brother before breaking into tears.
Look at them? Look at me! What will I be able to do to help the group? I can cast a couple of spells and I'm decent with a sling, but beyond that I'm useless!
Frigg'Isa quickly dries off her face and composes herself in case her brother returns soon. She doesn't want him to see that she has been crying.
Once more Frigg'Isa unpacks and repacks her backpack and pouches making sure she leaves nothing behind. She quickly strips down and puts on her leather armor underneath her warm furs.
Frigg'Isa prepares a warm herbal tea for herself and Nauthiz'Ull in case he returns to the tent. She sets his near the fire to help keep it warm.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+5=22 d20+7=12 d20+1=7 Saturday December 18th, 2004 9:03:56 AM
Nauthiz'Ull stands tall with pride at the mention of his father's name but a large knot constricts the back of his throat. A stinging sensation ravages his eyes, yet he cannot tell if it is memory of his father or if it is the icy wind. His eyecontact is unwavering in the presence of Kayra and Svanhvits speech and tries to recall anything about the Red Flower of Kelda-Sigr that his father may have taught him. I have not been north in my time, neither have the others. This will surely kill us all. I cannot do this, not even with Frigg by my side. Father did not teach me enough... As the elders leave Nauthiz'Ull and the others to stand there and wait for Domi's Shadow, he keeps composure until the adults are gone and messes up Bohdi's hair with his hand. ::laughs::"You got in trouble. I told you not to sit in the presence of the elders. Ohh well, they could have made you smoothe the ice-wall with youur tongue again. Now all you have to do is head north and get the Red Flower." Nauthiz'Ull then runs his hand through his twigged hair and turns to Aiden and Garret with a flash of a smirk streakinng his face. "Well we have a while until Domi's shadow creeps over the village. I guess that means we have a while until we head out for certain death. I'll see you both in a bit, I gotta head back to the tent for a moment. I forgot something." With that said nauthiz'Ull turns and nimbly crosses the icy, compacted snow back to his home. Where did Frigg go I wonder... Nauthiz kneels down to where he last saw his sister and tries to find and follow her tracks back to the hut. Arriving at the tent he hears a gentle sob coming from inside along with a clang of the water-pot being set. Knowing his twin as one, he takes a moment outside and tries to be as quiet as possible but with all of the disractions gorging his mind he ends up slipping on the shiny surface of ice and nearly falls into the tent. Well i know she heard that, I guess I cn't give her a minute alone... Nauthiz'Ull swings the flap of the light-grey hide tent open and flashes a smile to his dear sister, trying to play off the slip outside and the fact that he heard her cry. "Heya kid, what's up? Ahhh tea, excellent! I have such a scratch in the back of my throat. So anyways, you ready for the test?" His eyes dart arouund as he tries to avoid eye contact at the next comment. "It should be nothing. A bit of travel, some snow, maybe a couple of wolves and a flower. We can handle this." A faint attempt at a smile crinkles Nauthiz'Ull's face as he sits with a warm cup of tea in his hand.
Aiden Sunday December 19th, 2004 9:42:52 AM
~six days...~ he thought to himself. Aiden had done some small jaunts, a few hours...maybe even part of a day, out into the wilderness, but nothing that extensive.
It seemed simplistic enough, dangerous...aye, but simplistic. He looked at the others and wondered how 'far' they wished to travel. The elders said 6 days, but that could have meant a variety of things from marching out 6 days turning, and then coming back to going out of the village's view ( a day's travel or some little more), survive and then return.
For the most part, the others seem hardy enough, though there were familial loyalties running deep within two or three of them. Aiden wasn't quite sure since he never spent much time interacting with others of the village, due to how embarrassed he was. It was clear that the other outlander, the one just chastised for being too close to the elders, may need to be watched as well for he seemed to wily for his own good.
After a few moments, he turned back to make his own preparations including extra food, and clothing for the biting cold.
Bohdi Nackle Sunday December 19th, 2004 10:22:12 PM
"Six days?" Bohdi repeated. "Six days?" He stood unmoving, where Gra'ul had placed him, while the others dispersed. The gnome stunned failed even to acknowledge Nauthiz'Ull's good-natured head-rub, his eyes fixed into the space that Kayra formerly occupied.
"Six days?" he said again, weakly. "Six?"
"Six, six," Squork called from Domi's head.
The raven shattered Bohdi's reverie and he slumped to the snow. "Six," he said, resignedly. "Waaaaauuuuugh...." He pounded the snow uselessly with small, gloved fists.
After a time, however, Bohdi pulled out his spellbook and began to flip the pages, seeming to draw comfort from the words and runes within. He mouthed words and traced patterns; and after a last gesture and an arcane rune that hung in the air before fading into a bluish mist, Bohdi stood, brushed the snow and ice from his furs, and replaced the leather tome in his pack. Then, with a wry smile on his face, Bohdi sketched a rune in the air with his fingers. The air glowed and burst into a bluish flame. "Caelo orientis portentionis."
The blue flame surrounded Bohdi, flickering and dancing from head to foot. The flames did not singe or burn the gnome, but rather seemed to warm him instead. Bohdi smiled as the flames subsided to a low, dull glow about him. He sat comfortably by Svanhvít's tent while the sun crossed slowly westward.
As the others returned, Bohdi asked them about Kayra's words. "So now, what's all this about a red flower? What in the Wold does she want with a silly little flower, anyway? If that was all that she wanted, she could have told us earlier. It would be easy enough to--you know--whip one up." Bohdi wiggled his fingers suggestively. "We could turn this into a quick afternoon jaunt," he added hopefully.
ooc: Prepare spells as indicated previously. Cast Endure Elements.
Aiden Monday December 20th, 2004 7:20:16 PM
When Bohdi brought up his alternative plan for taking care of their initiation, implying some sort of trickery, Aiden looked at him sternly. "No...." he said emphatically, his voice quite deep, "we do this right, as the elders have commanded."
After a moment or two, he then adds, with a small smile, "Though it was a good idea...we will not disobey what has been commanded..."
Justin Webber (DM) The Shadow Cometh Monday December 20th, 2004 9:02:03 PM
The shadow doesn't seem like it takes long to slowly stretch to the stated spot. Once it reaches there and everyone gathers they are met once again by Karya and Svanhvít who look them over and Karya demands each persons pack to look over and make sure nothing is being taken along that is against the rules of the test.
As Karya looks over the stuff each person has packed Svanhvít speaks to the youths before her and nods, "Before you go I will give you each some parting words. The wolves you have heard of in this area are dangers but do not look at them only as a threat but also a friend. Also beware of blue ice if you would happen to see it (blue ice is thin ice over water. Becoming wet in the cold could be certain death), beware the the storms that come quickly and go just as quick at times. They can freeze you to death quickly if you do not find shelter quickly. Lastly do not fear the ants, they have never harmed a human yet that we know of."
Karya hands each person their backpack back and looks at each one before motioning towards village exit, "You must go now and bring back the flower which you are seeking now."
[Co-DM Daniel K] Tuesday December 21st, 2004 12:11:06 AM
I wanted to post here. Chris Jones aka Garret Jax has been set upon by a most malicious computer virus and is attempting to recover his PC. I will get some posts from him but probably not every day. He thanks everyone for understanding and patience in this
Nauthiz'Ull d20+7=20 d20+8=17 d20+8=23 d20+5=6 d20+5=8 Tuesday December 21st, 2004 3:16:05 PM
Standing proud and absorbing Svanhvít's words, the tall dark-skinned boy looks amongst his friends. We are facing hard times. I will do my best to keep them alive, but I fear my failure. Domi wants nothing to do with a boy like me. My life will bring my death and thus I truly am a child of Gargul. Off to Burfell to retrieve the red flower...now which way is north? Shoulder his pack, Nauthiz'Ull pats Aiden on the back and a smirk quavers across his face. As the gangs walks out of the town nauthiz'Ull says, with a cracking voice, "My friends it is our time to become men and lady. We should head north but keep to some sort of cover when it is available. The wind will freeze us solid if we cannot find a way to break it. I can guide the way if that is what you all choose. What my father has taught me is much as his wisdom was beyond the years of elves. With that said, the lanky boy kneels in the cruching, compacted snow and throws his hood over his head. Father, show me the way... Upon rising, Nauthiz'Ull stretches his left arm and points. "That is north my friends, that is the way to our destiny." As the group heads out Nauthiz'Ull will remain by Frigg'Isa's side and talk with her if no one engages conversation. All the while his eyes will be on the horizon and his surroundings. ~~~~~~~~~ Survival-20 (to discern north) Spot-17 Listen-23 Know:Nature-6 Know:Geog-8
Garrett JAx Tuesday December 21st, 2004 4:50:05 PM
Garrett nods to Nauthiz'Ull, and awaits him to determine our northerly path if we do not already know which way is north having lived here these many years.
Garrett agrees with Nauthiz'Ull, "we will need to move from shelter to shelter as our path permits. We will also need to start looking for a sheltered camping site for the night well before it becomes dark, as it may take awhile to find a suitable spot and prepare the camp."
As we move farther from the village, Garrett suggests that we determine our watch order for the evening, and volunteers for last watch.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday December 21st, 2004 6:31:20 PM
Bohdi stifled a derisive snort behind a feigned cough as Nauthiz'Ull solemnly declared the direction of north. Squork was not so charitable, however; the bird cawed raucously, in unmistakable humor, and flapped off in the direction that Nauthiz'Ull pointed. Soon, the bird was a point in the distance, never out of sight, but circling and wheeling above the direction of the group's path. Occasionally Bohdi would make a comment that seemed to relay some crude scouting report from the raven; "Big hill coming up, a little less than a mile," he would say, or, "Comfortable looking tree, to the left of the path, two slight dips ahead. Don't know why that matters to anyone but a daft bird."
Meanwhile, the gnome gathered his furs about him and struggled to keep up with the others, his shorter legs providing little clearance over the snowpack. Whatever protective dweomer he had cast about himself did little to warm his chilly outlook; Bohdi muttered and cursed at the snow and ice as he walked. "When will we camp?" he would ask; and, "Did anyone think to bring a tent? I don't take up much room"; and, "I hope we can find food along the way. I mean, six days! I could barely stomach hardtack for more than three, at the most." There was far too much more of the same.
Bohdi seemed puzzled by Garrett's remarks. "A 'watch' order? 'Watch' what?"
Realization dawned slowly on the bookish gnome. "Ah, you mean 'watch' us. Ahh. Yes, good idea. You all take of that." He looked pleased at this pronouncement, then took in the expressions of his fellow travelers. "What? What, you want--you expect me to take a 'watch'? Oh, no--I need my sleep. A good eight hours, at least. I can't function well without it. Why, I wouldn't be able to maintain my cheerful disposition otherwise." The others could only wonder at what his unpleasant disposition would look like.
After some persuading--gentle or otherwise--Bohdi would reluctantly agree to take the first 'watch.' He would be painfully repetitive in stressing his need for adequate sleep thereafter.
Aiden d20=17 Tuesday December 21st, 2004 7:12:50 PM
Aiden quietly nodded as he listened to the other warrior who had sworn to lead them to the flower.
Nauthiz could feel the solid muscle underneathe when he clapped Aiden on the shoulder. The young man was definitely solid.
He nodded, and quietly followed the others. Aiden was well aware of what the others had brought up in terms of basic survival within the harsh environment. Because of the length of the trip, he gathered a bit more supplies than he originally would have cared to carry, but it was better to overplan than to catch the ice chill which would wither one's limbs, or the winter winds which howled and would take his breath from the chest.
Just soon after the 'leader' had performed his task to determine north, Aiden took a moment to make sure that it truly was North. It was difficult, especially after his last journey on an initiation, to fully trust. He silently hoped that it would be different this time. (OOC: what do I need to roll to double check to make sure we're going in the right direction?)
Being tall was highly inadvantageous, even as Aiden turned to see if the...what was it called...oh yes, the GNOME, would follow behind him, using the tall man-child as a buffer.
The ice glare could be difficult as well, but a small cloth that he carried 'could' remedy that, being fairly see through, but taking away the major glare. Aiden hoped that it wouldn't come to that.
Turning his head upwards, he watched as the Raven came back from his scouting mission. A small smile cracked his lips. Perhaps the gnome did have some uses beyond his magic, though he did have a reserve plan in terms of food if things got bad enough...the Raven could serve as food if the situation becomes dire enough.
In terms of persuading Bohdi, Aiden looked at him, with a touch of intimidation to boot, his voice quite deep, "You asked it...so you get to do it..."
FYI...I don't have intimidate (mistake as I looked at an earlier incarnation of Aiden)...would the 17 still count?
Bohdi Nackle d20=1 Tuesday December 21st, 2004 10:04:45 PM
(Save against Intimidate roll of 17 is a natural 1!)
Bohdi stopped in his tracks at the imposing sight of the former Twin Tusk raider and cringed. His eyes grew wide as saucers, and a tiny whimper escaped his lips. "Mother." The snow by Bohdi's right leg turned a light yellow.
The gnome swallowed hard. "First watch. Got it. Right. First watch." He shrunk away from the tall fighter and, completely unsubtly, found a spot far away from him to walk.
Bohdi was uncharacteristically silent for the rest of the march--to the undying relief of all.
Justin Webber (DM) Outside of Village Wednesday December 22nd, 2004 4:08:15 PM
Outside of the city the group can see that the hills all around the city are uneven and do not allow you to see to far in any direction. It also quickly becomes clear that outside the walls of the city it is much colder out here and the chill is quickly creaping into the bones of most of the group, your extra clothing for the climate though is cutting abit of the harsh coldness from you.
Aiden and Nauthiz'Ull with their survival checks know that they will need to find shelter very soon already and also both spot wolf tracks that are quickly beginning to disappear in the now falling snow.
The snowing looks like it isn't getting worse YET but clearly will before long also.
Aiden d20=10 d20=19 d20=15 Wednesday December 22nd, 2004 4:41:58 PM
Aiden looks over towards Nauthiz'Ull, and gives a small but emphacized nod. Nauthiz'Ull had volunteered for leadership through example, and until otherwise, Aiden will not question it. Aiden thought for a moment about possible areas for possible shelter to use for the evening.
Then, Aiden did take a moment to kneel down and look at the tracks. The wolves could be fearsome enemies, or useful allies, depending on whether they have had a successful hunt or not.
Knowledge (local - area/shelter for the evening): 10+2 = 12
Survival (# of wolves and how fresh): 19 + 4 = 23
Knowledge (nature: again # of wolves and how fresh): 15 + 3 = 18
Frigg'Isa d20+3=20 d20+9=29 Thursday December 23rd, 2004 10:21:21 AM
Frigg'Isa trudges along with the others toward the north. Trusting her brother to lead them in the right direction, she pays no attention to that. Instead, she turns her attentions to the weather (Survival 29, nat 20) in the hopes of figuring out how the weather will treat them in the coming days.
Friga listens to the others as they walk. Lost in her own little world, she barely notices the scene between Aiden and Bohdi. Her thoughts are turned inward to the Red Flower they are to find. Dredging through her memories she tries to find reference to it (Knowledge Ice Vein 20).
Nauthiz'Ull d20+7=18 d20+5=19 d20+5=13 d20+8=21 d20+8=19 d20+7=14 Thursday December 23rd, 2004 10:48:36 AM
Looking at Aiden and knowing what questions he is pondering, Nauthiz'Ull voices his opinion. "Aiden, what do you think of heading towards the wolves? The seek shelter from the cold and we should follow their ways as they are the real survivalists. Animals are built for survival, as you know, so let them and their ways lead us in our journey." Kneeling down to look upon the tracks as well, Nauthiz'Ull is careful to avoid the yellow snow. Hopefully father has taught me enough. Aiden is going to show me up and then what kind of man would I be? Nonsense! A real man knows his weaknesses and utilizes those around him to compensate. Aiden will prove useful to cover my weaknesses and I the same for him. After studying the tracks and observing the sky and conditions, Nauthiz'Ull stands and a small smile cracks the corner of his lips as he looks upon Aiden. "If we stay out here too long, our dear friend Bohdi here will be neck high in snow. The tracks head that way and if we wait too long they will be covered witht he blowing snow. Keep your eyes open and your ears tuned for wolves and for any threats along the way." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Survival-18 (tracks) Know:Nature-19 (current weather paterns) Know:Geography-13 (possible places of shelter in the area) Spot-21 (surroundings) Listen-19 (surroundings/wolves) Survival-14 (predicting weather)
Bohdi Nackle Thursday December 23rd, 2004 11:45:17 AM
Bohdi kept his distance from Aiden, but without trying to look like he was keeping his distance. He was ... well, he was trying to "march casual."
At the prospect of wolves and snow, Bohdi sent an empathic message to Squork and the bird came wheeling in closer to the group, ultimately landing on Bohdi's shoulder. "Watch for wolves," Bohdi instructed the bird, his breath clouding in front of him. "And tell us if you see shelter enough for all of us--real shelter, now, not some blasted tree." The bird croaked an affirmation and flapped off again, this time circling closer to the group's location than before.
"Wolves," Bohdi muttered, and shivered--whether from the cold, or something else, wasn't certain.
Ice Trek [DM Post] Thursday December 23rd, 2004 2:31:25 PM
The sun continues to hide beneath the gray and overcast sky, now all but disappeared. Time begins to lose meaning and becomes exceedingly difficult to keep track of. Plodding across the ice pack, the wind blows lightly still, swirling the loose snow and sweeping it westward with a constant gentle push. Like everything else in the Ice Vein, relentless, unyielding and constant.
Hours surely must have passed, the Village of Ice Peak and the protective walls, a distant and fogged memory as the air saps strength of mind as well as body. To the north the gentle slope of the mountains have vanished with the increase in clouds and drifting snow. The trail leading south and home vanishes into the now drifting snow and it is obvious to any casting looks that within days it will be as if they had never come this way.
Still the group, lead by Nauthiz'Ull and Aiden continue forcing their tiring legs to push further and further. The terrain is not particularly difficult, the snow not deep to any, but the effort is beginning to mount none the less. Though the temperature holds as it had when they departed and the wind is not so strong as to cause the snow to bite, but rather it playfully dances low on the ground and is lost to the distance.
Frigg'Isa distracts herself giving more thought to their goal and the red flower. One comes to memory. One so unique and beautiful, that it must be the flower they seek. A plant of three flowers, one red but the others elude her. The Red would stem with 3 thorns and the combined blossoms give off a potent honey like scent. Surely that would be enough to narrow the search on Búrfell for the Red Flower of Kelda-Sigr. The weather is another matter. The northern clouds and therefore deadly snow would probably not arrive until late tomorrow evening. The overcast of now would help somewhat with temperatures, but tonight without shelter would be a long, sleepless and possibly dangerous one.
The tracking continues, the wolf prints have revealed few secrets to the two young hunters. At least three, but possibly more heading north and given the mild weather of the past few days, they could be several days old. Neither Nauthiz'Ull nor Aiden know of anywhere within several miles that might be suitable as a den for the wolves and unfortunately anywhere that would serve as a shelter for the possible coming storm. A storm both could see building in the clouds above, but when would it arrive. To be caught on the tundra would mean almost certain death. Nauthiz'Ull had heard stories from his father of the fury of the storms of the tundra. "Celsiun, Ás-Iss, Ás-Snjar walked the tundra that night and with him came death. We felt the grip of his passing, the air burned to breathe, yours eyes frozen shut to blind, limbs robbed of all heat and strength. You lie, praying to die as the very will of you is pushed beyond caring, you lie. If such is upon you my son, you must have shelter. Celsiun, can not be bargained with."
Still the group moves north, a blank horizon now spans in all directions as if a white cloak has wrapped itself about the young ones from Ice Peak Village. Distance of sight, now impossible to tell, the group continues to move over the snow packed tundra. How long has it been and how long before night sweeps across the land?
Garrett Jax Thursday December 23rd, 2004 6:17:15 PM
Garrett trods along behind Aiden and Nauthiz'ull, doing his best to stay warm.
As he trudges on lost in thought, he realizes that our chances for survival like rest in the hands of our two trailblazers and their ability to find us shelter at the right time. Garrett offers a prayer to Domi to assist Aiden and Nauthiz'ull should the need arrise.
Garrett looks at the sky, shakes his head and mumbles to himself."I was just kidding about about the Blizzard, it was a joke not a request." he then continues along the path, doing the best he can to look for unseen dangers or shelter.
Bohdi Nackle Thursday December 23rd, 2004 9:12:50 PM
Bohdi shot Garrett a dark look, but said nothing.
Aiden d20=9 d20=16 d20=7 d20=20 Friday December 24th, 2004 3:18:45 PM
Aiden looked over towards Nauthiz'Ull, shaking his head in the slightest. "They search, but I cannot think of anything nearby..."
Raising his hand upwards to possibly help 'aid' him in seeing into the distance, "Soon it'll be upon us..." turning towards the others.
[ooc: Aiden is trying to think of any possible outcroppings or overhangs of huge trees or some rocks, that can possibly be used with some work, in case of a nasty storm. Forgive the newbieness, but I wasn't sure which skill to use.]
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Friday December 24th, 2004 6:05:47 PM
Holding off on any DM post till we get more people posting. I know it is Christmas Eve though so everyone should of been expecting alittle bit of a slow down.
A question to all players and especially ones who are good and frequent posters. We need a ADM for the game. As ADM you would be in charge of figuring up who made a post each day and submitting it to the players of the game, the Co-DM's and a few other people. I will give a full list depending on if someone will take up the position.
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Suprise Visit Saturday December 25th, 2004 1:47:43 PM
Through the snow and the howling wind each person can swear he or she hears the jiggling of bells. The sound slowly gets abit louder and infront of you suddenly lands a snow sled being pulled by 4 large shaggy dogs. A small halfling wearing a red suit slowly moves out of the snow sled and looks to each person as he strokes a full white beard, "hmmm, you guys and ladies are way to hard to find for this time of year."
The man pulls a large bag out o his sled and opens it, looking through the stuff before pulling out a package for each person and handing them out to each of you. He even pulls out a small bag and hands it to the gnome, "For your birdie, he has been abit naughty but still on the list."
With this done the man just as quick as he showedup, crawls into his sled and snaps a whip and yells, "ON Berni, On Shag, On Jenna and Snowflake." With that the collars around the dogs neck glow faintly and the dogs launch off into a full run before taking lift off.
Bohdi Nackle Sunday December 26th, 2004 12:40:32 AM
Bohdi watched the halfling sled vanish into the gathering snow in stunned disbelief. "Bye," he waved, not knowing quite what else to do.
"Open it, open it!" Squork called from Bohdi's shoulder. Bohdi shook his head and blinked, before setting to on the wrapping for both his own and Squork's packages.
Aiden Sunday December 26th, 2004 7:12:15 PM
Aiden looked at the others, mystified that such a being would find them out in the wilderness. A part of him wondered if this was part of the initiation, or if it was a trick.
Slowly bringing the box towards his nose, he takes a sniff, and then shakes it slightly (the gift, not the nose). If there is nothing 'strange' about the package, holding it at arms length, he slowly pops open the top (or otherwise opening the gift) to see what was inside.
Garrett Jax Sunday December 26th, 2004 7:41:28 PM
Garrett forces his hanging jaw back to the closed position, and stares for a few moments at the fleeting figure.
He looks at the others and is about to say something when he just stops and looks back to where the halfling and his sled once stood.
He watches his friends for a moment, and then decides, What the heck and begins to open his package.
Nauthiz'Ull Sunday December 26th, 2004 9:49:33 PM
Nauthiz'Ull looks around, with a loss for words. Who would ever want to give me a present? I haven't done anything to deserve this... "Well, I would have to say that these are safe to open. If it was something bad, then why go through all of the trouble? That little guy in the red coat could probably have killed us alone if he wanted. I guess we should open them." Looking at his twin sister for some sort of hint on how to react, the tall boy shrugs his shoulders and feverishly tears the wrapping off of the package. He then gains his compossure and picks up every single scrap of paper and stuffs it into one of his pockets.
Frigg'Isa Sunday December 26th, 2004 10:21:08 PM
As Frigg'Isa continues to trudge along through the snow, she imparts what she has gleaned about the weather to her fellow men. She also tells them what she remembers about the Red Flower hoping it will jog a memory in one of the others.
As she walks her head is slightly bowed and it takes a moment for her to notice the red suited halfling. Friga watches in dumbfounded silence as he hands out packages to them all. She glances back and forth several times between the package and the retreating halfling before carefully opening her package.
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Presents Monday December 27th, 2004 11:28:50 AM
(OOC:Daniel will be handling the post to move you all on farther. I'm handling what you got as your gifts.)
Bohdi Nackle opens his gift to find inside the package a potion bottle which is clearly labeled cure light wounds potion. Also there is a wrapped object that when unwrapped you find a small cake with jelly filling. Lastly is a small wood carving of a raven taking flight. Inside of the package for Squork is some special bird food. Looks to be high quality stuff.
Aiden opens his package to find a potion labeled cure light wounds. He also finds a wrapped small jelly filled cake. Along with that is a small wood carving of a half-orc holding a great axe.
Garrett Jax opens his package and also finds a potion labeled cure light wounds. He also finds a small wrapped jelly filled cake. Along with everything is a small wood carved figure of Domi, making something on a anvil.
Nauthiz'Ull opens his package and finds a potion labeled cure light wounds. he also finds a small wrapped jelly filled cake. Along with this he finds a small wood carving of a wizard who looks to be casing a spell.
Frigg'Isa opens her package to find a potion labeled cure light wounds. She also finds a small jelly filled cake. Lastly she finds a small wood figure of a maiden riding a unicorn.
(The cakes just so people will know are about twice the size of a twinkie :) and the wood carving looks to be masterwork quality.)
Bohdi Nackle d20+10=21 d20+8=21 Monday December 27th, 2004 1:46:03 PM
Squork cawed insistently from Bohdi's shoulder. "Seed, seed!" The raven leaned down as if to start pecking it immediately.
Bohdi brushed the bird's beak away. "Hold on a bit," he said, and stroked his young goatee thoughtfully. "Hmmmm...."
"Everyone, give me a moment, please," he announced. Then, stretching and flexing his arms and fingers, he intoned, "Presto ensorcelsior revelorum!" An orange rune appeared suspended in mid-air in front of Bohdi's face. He reached out, grasped the glowing rune, and held it to his eyes. Then, circling the group one person at a time, he sniffed and peered through the rune at each package, scrutinizing each gift intently.
ooc: Cast Detect Magic. Alchemy check (on potions as necessary and other items) =21. Spellcraft check =21.
DM- All vials show as Conjurational magic. Bohdi is unable to verify if the labels on the vials, reading Cure Light Wounds, is correct or not.
The Long Night [DM Post] d6=3 Monday December 27th, 2004 2:57:39 PM
The day continues to move slowly on and the group continues to move ever northward. The landscape streches as far as any can see into a blurring white and gray horizon. The bleak light seems to wash all color away, there is now seemingly, only shades of grey on the tundra. The group pushes on.
The cold, though not overbearing, continues to work its way deeper into your bones and upon everyones face, a tinggling numbness can be felt. The group pushes on.
The wind continues to swirl snow about your feet, and the trail of wolf tracks continue to lead north. Above the gentle music of the blowing snow can be heard the crunch of your own footfalls on the snowy ground. The group pushes on.
[everyone, except Bohdi, needs to make a Fortitude save DC 15. Winter gear provides a +5 bonus to your roll. No Survival bonus as of yet. Failure results in non-lethal dmg 3 and fatigued -2 Str and Dex]
Frigg'Isa d20+5=25 d20+2=5 d20+9=11 Monday December 27th, 2004 7:06:08 PM
As the marching becomes quite repetitive, Friga falls silent. The cold begins to seep into her even through her heavy furs (Fort 27, nat 20 wrong + on roll). Curious about the figurine the odd halfling gave her, she turns it over and over in her hands examining it (Search 5).
"Guys, we have got to find shelter soon."
Frigg'Isa takes a look around and tries to figure out how much daytime is left in the day (Survival 11 if needed).
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Presents Monday December 27th, 2004 7:25:16 PM
Letting people know.
Bohdi Nackle's detect magic comes up with nothing on the figurines and the food but of course glows like a light bulb on the CLW potion.
Bohdi Nackle is also pretty sure the figures were carved by magic but otherwise look to be just a plain normal wood figure. Of course of high quality. He isn't sure what any of them are worth except maybe just a collector item for memories sake.
Aiden d20=10 d20=2 d20=8 Monday December 27th, 2004 7:59:02 PM
Strangely enough, Aiden enjoys the almost solitude that is brought by the sights and sounds of the wyld. There is a small smile that appears on his face even as the cadence of the crunching snow helps him to maintain a solid pace.
Simply put, the tranquility brought to him by this place almost made him forget that he was with others, especially one who would have trouble keeping up with his solid pace. The cold was refreshing.
With Frigg'Isa's reminder, Aiden replied without turning around, "Working on it..."
Knowledge (local): 2 + 2 = 4 (well guess that means we're no longer in Kansas anymore Toto...)
Survival (to try and come up with something to deal with the storm (a la shelter)): 8 + 4 = 12
Garrett JAx d20+13=15 Monday December 27th, 2004 9:33:02 PM
Garrett says a prayer to Domi in thanks for the gift, because as Garrett sees it, only Domi could have managed such a thing. He then carefully puts all three items away, and begins once again following behind his friends.
As he continues to plod along in the snow, Garrett mentions to his companions that he can probably assist a couple people with regards to the cold, but not until tommorow. And that it would be at the expense of healing capability. We will probably have a better idea of what will be needed more once the night passes.
Garrett quietly chastises himself for not having memorized endure elements at least once before leaving home. That will be a lessoned learned, he thinks, I need to prepare for more than just war.
Garrett now quietly continues on to the crunching of the snow and bite of the bitter cold, which he is barely able to stave off.
Fortitude save 2(roll)+ 4(endurance)+4(fort) +5(cold weather gear) = 15
Nauthiz'Ull d20+9=21 d20+8=15 d20+4=11 d20+7=24 d20+7=9 Monday December 27th, 2004 11:31:00 PM Pushing along through the night must be wearing down on everyone. What can I do though, there is no place to stop. Nauthiz'Ull wipes any frozen-condensed moisture form his furs and looks around out his companions, especially his sister. "We must rest at some time. I suggest taking a break and eating or we will wear out by sunrise. Maybe we can find a large enough drift to help break the wind for the evening." If everyone agrees to pause and eat, Nauthiz'Ull will eat the jelly-filled cake that was recently given to him and survey his immediate surrounding for snow-drifts or anything else that may help to break the wind. Hopefully there is something out here that father taught me to use for survival ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Fort-21 Spot-15 Search-11 Survival-24 create pseudoshelter for group or recall any ideas on how to survive without it for a night (burrowing into snow like sled-dogs and the like, etc.) Survival-9 (predicting weather)
Garrett Jax Tuesday December 28th, 2004 12:37:12 PM
After another hour of trudging through the snow, Garrett calls up to Aiden and Nauthiz'ull as they lead the way.
"Hey guys, We've been walking for quite awhile, and without being able to gauge when we should sleep because of the length of day , I think we should pretty much plan to try and make camp. Unless you see something that could be used as a shelter not too far off we should make due with what we have here. I have a tent, that will protect from the wind. Add a fire, and perhaps the side of a snow bank for cover and we should be ok to at least rest and get some sleep."
Bohdi Nackle d20+5=14 Tuesday December 28th, 2004 4:38:26 PM
Bohdi described the results of his thaumaturgical examination of the gifts to the others. At mealtime, he chose to eat the jelly cake rather than relying on his own supply of trail rations.
Bohdi's ears perked up when he heard Garrett mention a 'tent.'
"Why, yes, what a splendid idea, Garrett," he said sychophantically, sidling up to the cleric. "Why, that tent would be very helpful. You know, I've often heard it said that rangers sleep nestled together, so as to benefit from each other's body warmth. I think that's an excellent notion, don't you? Why, I imagine that, with a little doing, you and I might fit inside that tent together quite nicely--hardly noticing that the other was there!" He then leaned in toward the priest to add, in a conspiratorial whisper, "You know--that would finally give us the chance I've craved to discuss the Seven Virtues of Domi. I cannot say how often I've wondered about the application of Domi's guidance to my own life. Perhaps you could illuminate me?" The gnome smiled extraordinarily sweetly at Garrett.
In the meantime, Squork continued to patrol the skies ever closer to the group, so as not to lose sight as conditions worsened in the growing storm. He would occasionally drop down to Bohdi's shoulder and relay to the group any sign he might have seen of either shelter or predators (Spot =14, possibly 16 if a +2 circ bonus is granted for aerial surveillance).
Breaking for Camp [DM Post] d6=3 d6=5 d6=4 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 9:29:25 AM
The grey bleak horizons and sky slowly darken, but like every spring it never actually goes dark in the Ice Vein. The land becomes more subdued, the temperature continues to slowly fall and sounds seem to be literally absorbed by the thick air itself.
The young band, led by the two rangers continue to push, both men desperately scanning for anything now that might break the wind and provide some comfort. There is nothing, just the expanse of the tundra scoured flat and clean by the relentless wind, the hills are too far, perhaps tomorrow evening but not tonight.
Nauthiz'Ull continues to doubht, but declares the group needs rest, to push on would actually be worse. Then hope arrives in the voice of Garret, a tent. Aiden too packed a tent, the spark of hope is kindled on the tundra.
The two tents are erected side by side to create a wind break, The years of tales and skills imparted by his father comes in a rush to the young Nauthiz'Ull as he directs the encampment erection.
Aiden too, lends his assistance and soon the wind is abated by the canvas wall, but the cold is still a powerful force in its own right.
[Except Bohdi, three seperate Fort saves needed DC 16 non lethal dmg 3 and fatigued DC 17 non lethal dmg 5 and fatigued or exhausted DC 18 non lethal dmg 4 and fatigued or exhausted Bonuses for all +5 Cold weather gear, +4 survival bonus]
When using survival to help stay warm please state who in the group you are trying to help. One person can be helped (your roll -15)
Garrett Jax d20+13=28 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 4:01:46 PM
Garrett helps set up the tents so as to be most effective, and make the camp as best as we can.
And then declares "What we really need is a fire, any chance of wood or something to burn Nauthiz'Ull? We should also begin our watch for the sleeping people shortly so that we can get as much time as possible trying to catch some sleep in the tents. Who wanted what watch? I volunteered for last.
Garrett then pulls out his heavy winter blankets and spare set of cold weather gear to bundle up as heavy as possible from the cold.
Fortitude save 28. (outfit +5, endurance +4, fort +4)
DM- Need two more saves for the DC 17 and 18
Bohdi Nackle d20=8 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 8:33:44 PM
Bohdi lent his own meager assistance to the camp-setting. His attempts to aid anyone else in providing warmth, however, are as useless as he generally seems to be (Aid Another, DC=10 for +2 to Survival rolls, d20=8).
Squork reported back and Bohdi instructed the raven to remain for the night, which he did with a distinct look of relief. Squork ruffled his feathers for warmth and nestled against Bohdi's body.
At Garrett's reminder regarding watch-duty, Bohdi raised a reluctant hand. "I volunteered for the first watch--remember?" He barely glanced at Aiden as he did so.
Bohdi looked about the encampment and stroked his goatee thoughtfully. "I can cast spells that could provide a bit of warmth, or possibly even help to block the wind for a time--but neither lasts more than an hour, I'm afraid. Not much help over the span of an entire night. But they could help to build a fairly solid snowbank as a windbreak--perhaps that's best!"
Unless someone objected, Bohdi spoke a series of arcane words and a force, unseen but tangibly present, came into being by his side. Bohdi spoke to the force, as if to a servant: "Build us a semicircular snowbank to the height of those tents over there, on the tents' windward side. Come back to me when you're finished." The force moved off and began pushing snow into heaps, creating a windblock.
Bohdi wriggled his fingers again and pointed toward the snow mounds being made. "I'm using my powers of prestidigitation to warm the snow slightly," he explained. "It'll make it easier to pack, and as it cools again it will turn harder and icier, making the windbreak more sturdy. Hopefully that will aid us in making it through the night."
Should Bohdi's and the unseen servant's efforts prove successful and there yet remain time on either spell, Bohdi would instruct the servant to serve as a temporary windblock itself--using its force to push back at the winds as a meager force wall. His prestidigitation spell would enable him to light a fire, of course ... were anyone able to provide fuel for it. If not, he could always use the spell to warm one person's clothes for a time--a small comfort, but perhaps a welcome one, if there were anyone in the group in particularly poor condition.
ooc: Cast prestidigitation and unseen servant, forgoing any other use of those spells for the night. It's vacation week--should we just resume after the New Year?
Aiden d20=15 d20=4 d20=9 Wednesday December 29th, 2004 10:16:46 PM
Aiden built up his tent quietly and efficiently. He continued to look over towards the others, including the lone female in the group. Gruffly, and occasionally stroking his beginning beard, the young man finishes his tent, and then looks to survey the others.
"Interesting..." he said as an answer to the gnome's idea of using magic to help build the snow bank. "Good idea...but cost?" he said warily to Bohden. He was very ignorant in terms of magic, other than seeing some of the rituals from Twin Tusk to help build the warriors into a frenzy.
He did actually have a concern for the gnome and if the magic drained him too much then not only could the gnome perish, but it would diminish the group's ability to survive.
Aiden will look to help one of the others should they require aid. But the young man won't come unless he observes someone 'struggling'.
1st roll: 15 + 4 (I'm guessing that since I have survival, I get the bonus?) + 5 (cold uniform) + 5 (fort) = 29
ooc: let's keep going (grins) at least until friday during the day...;) Then return following Monday?
Garrett Jax d20+13=18 d20+13=31 Thursday December 30th, 2004 2:24:57 AM
(OOC) other 2 saves:
Save #2: 18 Save #3: 31
DM Supplement Post Thursday December 30th, 2004 9:48:42 AM
Because of this week, vacations abound, We've been waiting till everyone has a chance to post before continuing and today and tomorrow will be the same.
next week, though one day one post occassional exceptions allowing a second by players and the story will move on daily.
Oh and Happy New Year
Frigg'Isa d20+11=21 d20+11=29 d20+11=19 Thursday December 30th, 2004 2:31:09 PM
Frigg'Isa, still talking little, quickly moves to help set up the tents. The witch helps out others best she can, moving silently and only answering direct questions.
Catching Aiden's eye on her several times, she shakes her head a little and rolls her eyes.
He probably figures I can't do anything to help. I didn't hang around Father and Nauth and not pick anything up.
Fort saves: 21,29,19
Nauthiz'Ull d20+13=23 d20+13=21 d20+13=31 d20+7=25 Thursday December 30th, 2004 6:08:11 PM
As he helps in orchestrating the camp setup a small smile creeps across his face as Nauthiz'Ull sees Bohdi's selflessness break free, for even a moment. "Ahh wunjo, that's a good boy. Heya sis, whaddya think? Bohdi here may actualy realize that others are present! Ha!" clapping the snow off of his furred gloves, the tall, lanky boy begins to help his sister get setup for the harsh night ahead. "Aiden my friend, you okay over there? Maybe you could lend Garret a hand?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Fort1-23 Fort2-21 Fort3-31 Survival-25 (to help frigg'isa)
Justin Webber (DM) Camping Thursday December 30th, 2004 7:53:30 PM
The night passes slowly, with the tents setup and the wall to help block off the cold air everyone is able to get abit warmer in the tents. Not quite comfortable but as close as expected.
Inside the tents the group finds that tiredness and fatique is setting in pretty nastily except for Bohdi who's not fairing as bad.
Kup (ooc) Thursday December 30th, 2004 10:41:41 PM
um, sorry, quick clarification--does that mean the next post is in the morning, or what? I'll tailor Bohdi's whining accordingly.
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Clarification Friday December 31st, 2004 11:23:11 AM
Everyone should go ahead and post up to morning and of course the nice comforts of a slightly cold night. :)
Bohdi Nackle d20+2=9 Friday December 31st, 2004 1:38:36 PM
Bohdi spent an uneasy time on his watch looking nervously about for half-imagined glowing eyes in the darkness. Of course, if anything truly threatening actually had descended upon the encampment, it would have strolled right past the semi-frozen gnome without his ever noticing (Spot = 9).
Afterward, Bohdi snuck into Garrett's tent and snuggled up as best he could in his bedroll and winter blanket. Cautious to ensure that no one was looking, he carefully uncorked his bottle of ice wine and took a nip -- "just for warmth," he told an accusing-looking Squork--before replacing it in his pack.
His spell for protection from the elements still at work, Bohdi slept better than perhaps most of his companions; but still, his dreams were haunted by visions of ice-shrouded figures with long, white arms and hair-covered hands that reached for him from the gloom. He awoke in the morning in his typical foul mood.
With Garrett already awake before him, Bohdi strolled out to Garrett's position on the watch, his spell book tucked under one arm. "We both have the capacity to cast spells, it would seem," Bohdi observed. "So perhaps it's best that we coordinate--you know, to cover our angles."
"Now, I happen to be able to memorize a spell that offers protection from the cold. It lasts all day, and seems to work fairly well; perhaps Domi offers you the same ability. I can memorize that spell twice--once for myself, and once for someone else--but that limits what other spells I can prepare. Do you think it would be helpful to protect someone else against the cold like that? I don't mean to pick on her because of her gender, but it seems to me that Frigg'Isa, not being quite as hardy as some of the boys, might benefit."
Once Frigg'Isa was awake, Bohdi brought her into the conversation as well. "What do you think?" he asked. Bohdi was uncharacteristically gracious and apologetic as he spoke. "I hope I haven't offended you by suggesting you as the next candidate for this spell. It's just that I know that I wouldn't last a minute in this cold without it, and it seemed to me that the rangers there could pretty well take care of their own little parts, if you take my meaning."
Depending on Garrett's and Frigg'Isa's answers, and any input the others might have, Bohdi would sit down on top of his snowbank and study his spellbook accordingly, all the while chewing discontentedly on a strip of caribou jerky.
Bohdi (add-on) Friday December 31st, 2004 2:09:31 PM
ooc: Here's Bohdi's tentative spell list for the day, by the way:
Level 0: Detect Poison Detect Magic Light Gnome abilities: Dancing Lights Ghost Sound Prestidigitation Speak with Burrowing Animals Level 1: Endure Elements Feather Fall Color Spray
If the group's consensus is for Bohdi to memorize another Endure Elements, then he'll do so at the expense of losing Feather Fall. Also, he'll take input or suggestions on other spells, if the others have ideas. He's just that kind of gnome.
Aiden (just to finish last night/Next Day) d20=13 Friday December 31st, 2004 2:28:34 PM
The Previous Night:
Aiden who had glanced over at the woman noticed that she was doing fairly well in comparison to the others. He had seen the difference of treatment of the women who seemed to almost be their own 'person' instead of an extention of the man's property (as it was in Twin Tusks). ~it would have been foolish for them to send the women along without some means of taking care of themselves, unless they were for the men's entertainment and warmth....~
Shaking his head silently at this thought, ~doubtful for she seems to carry herself with more pride than a camp follower, as has several of the other women who have left the village...~
When Nauth'iz had asked him to help Garrett, Aiden nodded silently. Looking at Nauth'iz straight in the eye, he then followed up gruffly with, "I shall take her watch". The woman had done quite a bit as it was, and Aiden, in his rather strange mindset, was trying to 'be nice'.
---------------------
Aiden did take the earliest watch, as it was a joy for him to see the sun rise, the glitter (like diamonds) of the ice and snow capped mountains. It was beautiful...and every morning when he woke early to watch the sunrise, he treasured it as if it was made for him alone.
He quietly helped to blaze the trail onwards towards the flower along with the other ranger Nauth'iz. His ears did pick up at the sound of magic being discussed, even turning around for a second. It was so difficult getting used to the concept of manipulating or cajoling anyone...whether spirit, godservant, or nature secrets themselves. They should survive by their own hands and minds, but...does that mean using one's skills in this 'magic' is cheating? Or is it using one's own gifts to his (or her advantage), such as being born stronger than most of the others?
Turning so that Aiden could go back to trailblazing, he decided 'to each their own'. He would know if he survived by his own skills and knowledge or if he somehow 'cheated'.
Garrett Jax Friday December 31st, 2004 4:16:07 PM
Garrett listens thoughtfully to Bohdi's ideas on cold prevention and says that Domi indeed does grant such a spell.
Garrett thinks the best idea would be for you to indeed memorize both spells. I can also have two of them prepared. My thought at this time is that our biggest threat is the cold. there are 5 of us and only 4 of the spells, leaving someone unaccounted for anyway if it gets real bad.
I will memorize both, and that will leave me with one other spell that can also be used as a cure should the need arise.
Garrett rides out the night as best he can, with multiple sets of clothes and blankets. Upon the last watch he takes guard duty. Once the others are awake he will pray for the following spells:
Bohdi Nackle (and a little necessary OOC) Sunday January 2nd, 2005 11:58:11 AM
Bohdi shook his head. "Doesn't work like that," he explained, somewhat pedanticly, to the priest. His voice sounded vaguely professorial; it was clear that Bohdi was in his element. "The spell to endure elements is an all-day affair, and it's no help to cast it after the cold's already seeped into someone's bones. So there's no benefit for me to prepare it 'just in case.' If I prepare it, I cast it immediately. But if I'm preparing it for someone else, first I want to hear from them whether they want it!" He peered significantly at Frigg'Isa, then looked at the others for their input as well.
ooc: I'm working under the assumption that Bohdi and Garrett don't know that Frigg's a witch. We've never ironed that out. It's significant, because Woldian witches get endure elements as a level 0 spell, so Bohdi and Garrett's assumption that there are only 4 such spells available for the party is wrong! There's 5, including Frigg's, so the whole party could be covered from cold, should they so choose. (I didn't know this myself until I looked back at the Oshirr House class description for Woldian witches.)
IMHO this comes down to Frigg's players' decision--Lynn, how much do the others know about Frigg, and what she's capable of doing? And what is her reaction to Bohdi's offer to cast endure elements for her? Likewise, what's the rest of the group's feeling about having the whole party protected from cold? Aiden seems to have voted "no"--Nauthiz'Ull?
Garrett Jax (OOC) Sunday January 2nd, 2005 3:50:34 PM
Actually, I also made a mistake. Since I can't convert my domain spell to a cure light wounds, casting 2 endure elements would eliminate my CLW ability. We each have a potion so it just depends on what we all want to trade off for cold protection. Garrett plans on placing the spell on himself either way.
Nauthiz'Ull Sunday January 2nd, 2005 5:50:37 PM
Listening to the pint-sized prfessor and the Holy boy discuss magic makes a smile appear of nauthiz'Ull's face. "My friends, I am of like-minds with our friend Aiden here. I will survive on my skills and if I am in need of assistance then I will ask. My father has taught my sister and I valuable lessons and I need to know that I am capable of putting those lessons into use. Frigg, I would suggest you use your magics to your advantage as well as Garret and Bohdi here. I know you are capable." Nauthiz'Ull smiles softly to his sister, which is interupted by a quick shiver down his spine. "Brrrrr! Blast this wind. Camp looks good, so we should all rest. I will take watch as well." As the night passes nauthiz'Ull sleeps lightly but feels replenished in the morning. Upon waking he will eat a portion of his jelly-filled pie and eat some non-yellow snow for hydration.
Frigg'Isa d20+9=15 Monday January 3rd, 2005 10:10:43 AM
Frigg'Isa continued to keep an eye on Aiden, just because he was doing the same to her. When he offered to take her watch, she was a bit taken aback.
"You can have my watch tonight Aiden. I shan't argue with you. But, I'll be taking my watch tomorrow night. I am just too weary to argue much tonight."
In the morning, Friga washed her face with a bit of snow to wake herself up. After that she found some fresh snow and packed her waterskin with it. She then placed her watersking in among her clothes as close to her skin as she can to help the water melt and keep it from freezing.
As the talk turns to magic, Frigg'Isa's ears perk up a bit.
"Aye, I can cast a bit. But I've only the ability to cast one spell a day at this time. My powers are not as great as Bohdi's appear to be. I do know the spell to protect from the cold. Perhaps you are right and I should cast it on myself. But, I am rather rugged and know many ways to help myself. Let me think about it for a bit."
Friga walks away and begins to break camp. She takes out a ration and begins to chew on it for energy. When done she lets the others know her decision.
"Aye. I'll cast upon myself."
Saying so, she casts Endure Elements upon herself.
"Now, we need to get going before the storm hits. It should hit sometime today."
Frigg'Isa takes another look at the sky to get a better idea of when the storm will hit. (Survival 15)
Awakening to more of the same [DM Post] Monday January 3rd, 2005 3:07:12 PM
The night passes slowly, or rather the deep dusky gloom of the night passes slowly, as it only becomes actually dark in the very early hours. The temperature mercifully remains constant throughout the hours the groups attempts to sleep and piled into the two tents, everyone is able to sleep relatively well.
The tents warm considerably with several bodies and all the blankets and other cold gear that is worn. Opening them in the morning remind all just how warm a crowded tent can get, as the artic blast of air washes over the inhabitants. In no time at all, everyone is quite awake.
Morning finds the sky still threatening and dark, the sun will have little chance to show its face this day. Frigg'Isa solemly notes that the group will be buried in snow by nightfall at the latest, maybe sooner. The good news is such storms do not tend to drive the temperature down.
Discussions are had to the memorization of spells against the Cold and the makeshift camp is taken down as some grab a quick bite.
Next Post, all those casting please state upon whom and also post your memorized spell list.
Garrett Jax Monday January 3rd, 2005 3:52:52 PM
"Well, since no one appears to be stepping forward to request my second endure elements, than I shall save it in case healing spells are required. Bohdi and Frigg'Issa seem to have their end of the cold covered, so let the continuing march through the snow begin."
At that, Garrett casts endure elements(cold) upon himself and begins packing up his tent, multiple sets of clothes and blankets, and whatever else needs to be packed up from camp. Garrett is also trying to conserve his rations, eating a little bit less at each meal, hoping he can stretch 6 days of rations into 7. He is also saving his jelly roll for an energy boost, should the rations run out.
At some point during the breaking of the camp, Garrett whispers to Frigg'Isa, "keep an eye on your brother and Aiden with me. If either seens to be battling the cold a bit too much let me know, and I can help. Perhaps they are a bit too proud too except my help at the moment, but I can help, and that's what friends are for.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+7=14 d20+8=22 d20+7=24 d20+7=22 Monday January 3rd, 2005 6:42:50 PM
Upon waking, Nauthiz'Ull packs his belonging and dons his armor. "This jelly roll is quite good. Bohdi, there are no more spots of yellow snow too close to camp are there?" The dark boy chuckles at his attempt at humor and hopes the others find it as amuzing as he does. "All should do as Friga has done and pack your waterskin with as much snow as possible. Keep it close to you and it will melt and hopefully not refreeze. Keep snow packed in it so that you do not run out of water." As with every morning, Nauthiz'Ull routinely traverses around the area as everyone is getting ready and looks for tracks to follow. He also takes in his surroundings, discerns north and tries to predict the weather. "Well lets get a move on it. There will snow this evening. We should maintain our northerly direction to the village." When his companions are ready to set forth, nauthiz'Ull will walk in the front by Aiden and start up friendly chat, all the while keeping an eye on Frigg'Isa to make sure she is okay. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Survival(tracks)-14 Spot(surroundings)-22 Survival(north)-24 Survival(weather)-22
Aiden d20=2 d20=14 d20=2 d20=20 Monday January 3rd, 2005 8:32:33 PM
Aiden continued to remain in front of the group, the lower part of his face partially wrapped to prevent burns from the winds. Turning towards the others, Aiden eyed how they fared. Thoughts ran through his mind about magic, something that he still didn't fully trust, but it wasn't proper for him to say anything. After all it could become helpful later on...
He continued to try and be observant, but his thoughts wondered momentarily. The wolves may have travelled through there several days ago, but food was always scarce in the wilds. Predators always loved to hunt the infirm, weak, old...and young. Even as he pondered this, he momentarily lost track of the...well....tracks. Cursing silently for his carelessness, the hunter took a moment to gauge Nauthiz, and from there try to regain his bearings on where the tracks were. (OOC: trying to justify the low roll)
Bohdi Nackle d20+3=19 Monday January 3rd, 2005 9:17:38 PM
Bohdi smiled with pleasant surprise at Frigg'Isa's responses. "Another caster! Excellent!" he chortled. "We must compare notes some time." He studied his spell book accordingly, packed his things, and readied for the day. After all was in preparedness, Bohdi traced runes in the air and proclaimed, as he had the previous morning, "Caelo orientis portentionis." (Cast endure elements.)
Then, sending Squork aloft close to the group (Spot 19, not including any circumstance bonus for aerial surveillance), Bohdi resumed his tortured waddle through the snow, muttering half-vocalized curses at the elders of Zander and the fools who think trudging through a week's worth of snow somehow proves maturity. He maintained a tight empathic link with the raven--no sense in leaving the bird airborne should the snow begin in earnest.
ooc: For those of you keeping score at home, Bohdi's spell list is as mentioned previously-- Level 0: Detect Poison, Detect Magic, Light Gnome abilities: Dancing Lights, Ghost Sound, Prestidigitation, Speak with Burrowing Animals Level 1: Endure Elements (cast), Feather Fall, Color Spray
Put another way, Bohdi's swapped out a Detect Magic for Detect Poison and Unseen Servant for Feather Fall for today from his default list.
Frigg'Isa d20+3=22 d20+9=19 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 10:46:13 AM
Frigg'Isa takes another look around the camp they had made to make sure nothing is forgotten before they make their way north once more.
Turning to the gnome she addresses him at bit solemnly.
"As I said Bohdi, I can but cast one spell a day at this time. My powers are not that great. I am not sure how great they will come. I am hoping that with practice and a bit of study and perhaps a bit of help from other that I shall improve. I do consider myself a bit lucky though in that I do not have to sit and prepare spells in advance as you do. When I have need, the spell is right there for me."
Frigg'Isa keeps one eye on the weather ( survival 19) and another on her brother and the other ranger with him.
Speaking to the group Friga asks, "Do none of you others know anything of this flower for which we are looking? I've told you what I can remember easily. I will think on it some more." (Know Ice Vein 22)
Before leaving, Friga casts Endure Elements (cold) upon herself.
Frigg'Isa has no more spells today.
Cold and Blustery Day [DM Post] d6=2 d6=4 d6=1 d6=1 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 10:00:27 PM
The group sets forth, the wolf tracks still dicernable to the trained eyes of the rangers.
The day proceeds much like the day before, with the light wind blurring the horizon and making a judge of distance impossible. Soon far too soon it seems, 5 specks of humanity push across the endless frozen tundra plain alone. The grey sky above, blackening by the hour, the snow under their feet, white and uncaring and the everpresent cold seeks holes in the defences of spell and mundane protection alike.
The group pushes on when upon the wind aother sound is carried to the ears of those who would care to listen. A call? A cry? from behind in the blanket of white it comes again. like a dream at the moment of waking, but more.
All look to each other and all can hear it, but none may verifiy it as real or the onset of a group madness brought on by the desolation about them. Gray and white stretch without break or feature save a few tracks that travel north and south into the haze.
[Those without Endure elements. 4 Fort saves at DC 15 DC 16 DC 17 and DC 18 Failure indicates dmg 2...4...1...1 and fatigued or possibly exhausted. Everyone gets a +2 survival bonus because of Aidens Survival of 24
Bohdi if Squork is more than 5' from you he loses the spell protection. even if he later comes back]
Aiden d20=10 d20=8 d20=18 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 10:16:22 PM
Through the cold, Aiden continued to march, almost accustomed (at least by his body language) to the cold. However, with the sound, he stops...
Aiden looked over at the others when he heard the strange sound. His snow and ice crusted gloves crunched as he reached to unsheath his large (and quite ugly) orken axe.
Bohdi Nackle d20+4=24 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 11:01:48 PM
Squork might have been a bird-brain, but he was no fool. The bird shook its head as Bohdi urged it aloft: "Too cold," it croaked. Bohdi saw the sense in it and pushed no further; he was a dimwit himself at times, but not an unkind master.
Bohdi's ears picked up at the sound in the distance. He listened carefully; aided by the magical presence of his familiar, his ears were especially keen (Listen =24, natural 20). "Wait!" he told the others. "There is a voice on the air." He turned toward the sound of the noise. "Should we take a look? Better to confront whatever it is now--while we all still have our strength."
Garrett Jax d20+3=13 Wednesday January 5th, 2005 7:01:57 AM
Garrett listens(13) closely hoping to determine where the sound is coming from over the howling of the wind.
"Can anyone tell where it's coming from"? he says as he pulls his sword, and pulls his shield into position on his off arm.
If Garretts listen check gives him an idea of the direction, he will say "I think it's this way", and start moving in that direction.
If not, Garrett will wait to see if someone is able to give a better direction, and if they do, then head off in that direction.
DM supplement Post Wednesday January 5th, 2005 9:48:27 AM
Bohdi distinctly hears a human male calling out from the south. What is being said is not possible to tell. Slow seconds pass, It could be getting closer, or the wind could be lessening allowing the voice to carry more easily.
Frigg'Isa d20+4=19 Wednesday January 5th, 2005 10:40:49 AM
Hearing something upon the wind, Frigg'Isa swivels her head from side to side trying to get a better idea of what she is hearing and where it is coming from (Listen 19).
Not taking any chances, Frigg'Isa pulls her sling loose from her waist and loads a bullet into it. She moves closer to Nauthiz'Ull and stands ready.
Voices on the Wind [DM Post] Wednesday January 5th, 2005 4:57:04 PM
The group turns and focuses their collective attention back the way they had come. Figg'Isa loosens her sling, just in case'
The voice is gone, replaced merely by the chill wind and for a moment all think perhaps it was a grand hallucination by the collective minds desperate for something to break the hours.
Then, the outline of a lone figure breaks the white and gray haze. Clad in Cold weather gear like all are wearing and leading a laden stocky animal of some kind. the smaller creature is piled with furs and gear adn from its staggered stride is not fairing well at all.
Most surprising is the distance that can now be associated with the limit of sight. The blending sky and ground with the swirling snow has effectively masked everyone's sight to a mere few hundred feet.
The humanoid continues to stagger towards you, his gait also revealing an unpleasant day at best. His head down, shoulders bowed, he plods on likely unaware of your presence.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+15=22 d20+15=26 d20+15=22 d20+15=23 d20+8=17 d20+8=19 Wednesday January 5th, 2005 5:39:37 PM
Bearing down upon another frigid day Nauthiz'Ull grits his teeth at the wind and does his best to keep going. Upon hearing the sound behind htem and then seeing a figure a ways back, the tall boy can only think of how to find out who this person is. He immediately walks up to Aiden and begins talking in hushed tones. "My friend, we need to figure out who this is and weigh the possibilities of danger. I suggest that you and I break out to the groups flanks and circle back. We meet up behind whomever the person is and follow them until that person notices the rest of the group. We can observe and take by suprise if that is what the situation calls for." Nauthiz'Ull then strains to see the figure better. Speaking to the others without taking his eyes off of the figure Nauthiz'Ull says, "My friends this may be our second test so far as our first test will be with us until we return home. First the cold, then this figure, who knows what will be next. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best." ~~~~~~~~~~ Fort Saves (4+6(survival + Aiden bonus)+5 (cold gear)22,26,22,23 Spot-17 Listen-19
Aiden Wednesday January 5th, 2005 7:20:00 PM
"I do not like this..." Aiden responded quietly. "My instincts say he already knows that we are here, or why else would he stop screaming?" Keeping his voice extremely low so that Nauth'iz was the only one who could hear, "and I do not like to leave them helpless..."
"You go, and circle. I shall remain behind to be the loud dumb warrior who is along for his strength..."
Frigg'Isa d20+3=16 Wednesday January 5th, 2005 8:11:13 PM
Something about the figure puts Frigg'Isa at ease. Maybe it is the hunch of his shoulders. Maybe it is the poor animal behind him. Something in the sight touches something inside ehr. She removes the bullet from her sling and rethreads the sling through her belt.
Friga leans forward a little as she tries to get a better look at the approaching figure (Spot 16). No matter, her feeling of ease persists and she begins to walk forward and meet the man? She ignores any protests of her movement.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday January 5th, 2005 11:05:27 PM
Bohdi rolled his eyes at the hushed tones of the two rangers. "Oh, please. There's five of us and one of him. If he turns out to be a vicious ice beast, then at least I'll be done with this bloody test."
Bohdi turned to walk toward the figure--only to see that Frigg'Isa had beaten him to the punch! Bohdi followed along behind her. He stayed relaxed and comfortable as he approached to about 15 feet from the hunched figure, at which point he yelled, "Oy! How about this heat wave we're having!"
Skalti Thursday January 6th, 2005 3:47:09 AM
Hey lil fella aye it is some kinda hot!! Skalti exclaims a twinkle in his eye and a grin on his just bearded and perhaps a bit frost nipped face. Greetings and salutations he yells over the wind with a mock bow and a flourish of an imaginary cap. "The name is Skalti and the gods do favor me today. Kayra said if I pressed hard I could possibly catch up with you," he announces. "For I am on a quest same as yourself, or so I was told. I must prove myself to my ancestors, my people, and myself." After making such a boisterous greeting the young man (who resembles Frigg'Isa and Nathiz'Ull in his features and whose heritage is obviously of this area of the wold) falls to his knees panting.
DM Supplement Thursday January 6th, 2005 10:05:02 AM
Everyone can post, consider Skalti a DM post. A larger DM post will happen later tonight, till then, any can multiple post.
Aiden Thursday January 6th, 2005 10:36:58 AM
The frown on Aiden's face was quite large as he saw the gnome and woman leave to encounter the stranger.
Obviously the gnome had not heard of the ghosts that walked the land. ~I should let them have their breath stolen...~ as it was a common legend amongst his people about ghosts and the like that wandered the wilderness in search of heat and breath.
"Cover them..." he growled, obvious his displeasure in his voice, making sure that Nauthiz understood that Aiden was going to make his way over as a protective presence.
nauthiz'Ull Thursday January 6th, 2005 10:43:35 AM Man that guy sure can move! First he was at a distance and then he was talking to us...hmm ohh well. The tall, lanky boy peers at Skalti and cannot help but wonder who is is or where he came from. "I am Nauthiz'Ull, son of Ull'Heimdall and htis is my sister, Frigg'Isa, daughter of Volva'Frigg. Where have you come from my friend and how do you know Kayra?" Nauthiz'Ull straightens up and and shows his true height, trying his best to sound authoritative. Who am I kidding, I cannot impress anyone... "This is Aiden, Garrett and Bohdi the Infamous Illusionist with his Ferocious Flyer, Squork."
Bohdi Nackle d20+4=5 d20+2=7 Thursday January 6th, 2005 11:00:05 AM
Squork turned a beady eye at Nauthiz'Ull and gave a querolous quork, but Bohdi ignored the ranger's quip and instead turned his attention to the newcomer's beast of burden.
"Looks pretty loaded down there," Bohdi commented. "Not easy sledding to make it this far from the village on your own, to say the least."
Bohdi made his way closer to the animal and gave it an appraising look, before turning his attention to the gear loaded upon it. "Got any ice wine in there?" His attention focused on a limited objective, any other significant details were lost on him (Search 5, Spot 7).
Garrett Jax Thursday January 6th, 2005 2:55:54 PM
Garrett approaces the figure with Bohdi and Frigg'Isa.
"You must have pressed pretty hard to catch us Skalti, considering that we weren't exactly going slow. Looks like you and your animal could use a bit of a rest."
"Nauthiz'Ull, Aiden, what do you guys think? Do we need to keep moving to gain as much ground as we can before the storm makes that impossible or is this as good a time as any to camp? I guess my question is, what do you think the storm is going to do? It looks like Skalti could use a rest, but we don't really want to dawdle too much or we will end up taking longer than the available food we have."
"Speaking of food, How much did everyone bring on our little journey? I brought 6 days, but I'm starting to think that that might not be enough.
Frigg'Isa Thursday January 6th, 2005 8:36:41 PM
Frigg'Isa reaches down to help the young man up from his knees where he has fallen.
"Nauth! Help me here! Can't you see he's not in shape to answer too many questions."
Frigg'Isa shakes her head and mutters to herself, "Brodirs!*"
"Skalti are you hurt or injured? What about your animal? I'm surprised Karya sent you after us, but now that you are here perhaps we shall have better luck on both our quests."
*Brodir=brother
Skalti d20=10 Thursday January 6th, 2005 10:33:41 PM
-Skalti struggles to his feet with assistance from Frigg'Isa-
"We're just fine ma'am just a little tired thats all...what did you say your name was?"
-Skalti draws himself up and addresses Nauthiz'Ull, He knows that this is a test of tolerance and mayhap acceptance to the other young man-
"Well met everyone. I come from many places, Zarnan City was the first alas I have no memories of it."
"I am a traveler of sorts but my parents where from Ice Peak Village." "My tale is long and I am sure there will be time to tell it as we travel."
"Yodel and I, (pointing to the donkey), met Kayra yesterday." "We spoke and she agreed to help me learn of my heritage if I accompanied your group on this quest."
"Yodel and I pressed very hard and almost froze last night....I am not used to this harsh, freezing, weather."
Rolls Diplomacy to Nauthiz'Ull 10 + 7 = 17
Bohdi Nackle Friday January 7th, 2005 9:47:32 AM
"Zarnan City, did you say?" Bohdi's ears perked up. "Shame that you have no memory of it, my friend, for that is my home, and a finer city you'll never find. Together, we might have taught these Ice Peak folk a thing or two about civiliz--er, about the finer things in life."
"Well met." Bohdi extended his hand in greeting. "I'm Bohdi, as my wunjo Nauthiz'Ull over there said, and this is Squork." The bird cawed in greeting.
"You must have traveled very far indeed, if you are unused to this cold weather. Come! We should press on, if you can manage it. We have a ridiculously long way yet to go, and a snowstorm to stay ahead of." He added, in a whisper, "I don't suppose you packed any firewood on good ol' Yodel there, now, did you?"
Bohdi looked back at Garrett. "Garrett, you brought food for six days? But isn't this place we're going just three days away? They'll have food there ... won't they?" Bohdi appeared a bit nervous. "Um ... I have enough to keep me going for another three days. But I don't eat much. If we have to share, I'm sure you all wouldn't even notice if I had some of yours ...."
The Brewing [DM Post] d6=5 d6=2 d6=1 Friday January 7th, 2005 12:34:27 PM
The party converses with the newcomer and in relative short time it is learned he too is on the trial of adulthood and has family and ties to Ice Peak. Frigg'Isa notes the mounting clouds, the coming storm will produce a massive amount of snow. Tenting on the open tundra would be suicide. The foothills should be within the days walk, if the group does not tarry and so the push is on.
The newest member, Skalti, presses with, but his condition worsens as the day progresses. What choice is there however, for without shelter tonight the entire party could persih.
Temperatures once again hold well, as Frigg'Isa knew they would, but those without magical protection find the cold inescapable and inevitably discovering the weakness's of their mundane gear.
Hours pass, the sky contiues to darken and the group presses on. The darkening sky no longer blends into the ground, effectively increasing vision and in that hazey distance, the foothills of Búrfell can now be seen, perhaps only a few more hours. The wolf prints lead directly into them. Both Nauthiz'Ull and Aiden note the tracks are fresher and clearly show at least 4 large wolves.
[Fortitude saves for those not magically protected. DC 18 dmg 5 non lethal and fatigued DC 19 dmg 2 non lethal and fatigued DC 20 dmg 1 non lethal and fatigued The following bonuses apply to everyone +5 Cold weather gear +2 Survival bonus some are still relatively new to 3.5 so this is for them roll d20 add your listed Fortitude save and then add the above bonuses. These are the only bonuses.
Nauthiz'Ull Friday January 7th, 2005 12:36:26 PM
"Well met friend. You have covered an impressive distance. Youur heritage is unkown? Shame for you Skalti, but honor is in yor future if we complete our journey, so I will not hold it against you." The lanky boy smirks a bit and looks at his sister. "I did not know that I had to do everything. Next time you need to go potty let me know and I shall go for you as well." A chuckle rolls from Nauthiz'Ull's throat and a smile genuinely glides across his face as he ruffles the fur hood on Frigg'Isa's head. He looks at her for a moment and then nudges her with his shoulder. "Well, Skalti, if you are up to it then we should do like Bohdi said and press on. We have observed a snow storm coming upon us this evening and we need to get as far as possible tonight as who knows what tomorrow will have in store for us."
Nauthiz'Ull d20+7=22 d20+7=17 d20+7=27 d20+7=21 d20+5=10 d20+8=17 Friday January 7th, 2005 12:46:33 PM
As the day presses on the biting winnd gnaws at Nauthiz'Ull's bones. For a while he has been able to hold it off but now it has gotten to him. "Blast this tundra! We live in a surrounding of mountains, where are the blasted mountains?!" I cannot believe that I am tiring already. Everyone is doing fine but me and I am supposed to be the one who knows how to survive. Ull'Heimdall, forgive my embarassment! Nauthiz'Ull proceeds quietly after his quick outburst and tries everything to keep himself busy for the remainder of the day. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Fort:22,17,27 takes 2 dmg and is fatigued (unless I get to use my survival bonus, then add up to +7 to each roll and no damage or fatigue Survival(tracks)-21 Know:Geography-10 Spot-17
Garrett Jax Friday January 7th, 2005 3:39:48 PM
Garrett pushes on with the rest of the group toward the foothills.
Noticing Skalti seems to be suffering quite badly from the cold, Garret turns to him. "Skalti, we still have a long way to go today, how do yo fare? I have a spell that will protect you from the cold for the remainder of the day. It will not erase what you already suffer, but it will prevent your condition from worsening. The only downside is that it will leave me with no ability to heal the wounded should something bad happen. I will leave the decision to you, since you know best how you feel.
Aiden d20=5 d20=7 d20=12 Friday January 7th, 2005 4:21:10 PM
Aiden eyed the newcomer with a bit more respect. He had pushed himself to the fullest extent to catch up with the group.
That was impressive....but right now, they were going to have to push themselves to keep out of the ugliness of the oncoming storm. "We need to go before that..." was his response when he was questioned about moving or camping.
However, knowing (or not knowing) one's heritage was pretty much an open question from the village of Twin Tusks. Why is one's parentage be so valuable to the others?
Kneeling closer to the ground so that he could see more of the tracks, "Four..." he said quietly. "Maybe more..."
Slowly getting up, he continued to help lead the trail, trying to be wary of hungry (or hiding) predators. "Should be careful..." he muttered to the others.
No matter what though, he wasn't going to show any sign of weakness or shivering to the others. Too much of the resources were already tied into the survival (especially since some appeared not to come with short rations for the trip) for him to show any weakness.
Three DC's: 5 + 5(winter gear) + 5 (fortitude) + 2 (survival) = 17 [doh...a little shiver]
7 + 12 = 19 12 + 12 = 24 (he's all better now...)
Skalti d20=4 d20=6 d20=11 Saturday January 8th, 2005 1:56:51 AM
"Thanks Garrett but please save your healing...tonight when we stop if you still have the capability I will accept it then."
- Shivering and severely tired Skalti summons all his strength and that of those around him and trudges on -
"I shall push on with the rest of you."
"By the way what are we here to do? Kayra sent me off after you as soon as I arrived she said you would fill me in?"
- Skalti has 5 days of trail rations -
Three DC rolls 4 +5 (gear) + 2 (survival) +0 fort = 11 6 + 7 = 13 11 +7 = 18
Hp: 6 -8 looks like I am about passed out / or passed out? I am at the least extremely tired
DM Post that would be passed out hyperthermia frostbite, generally not good
Bohdi Nackle d8+1=7 d20=10 Sunday January 9th, 2005 12:10:42 PM
Bohdi trudged along fitfully through the snow. While he and his raven were magically protected from the effects of the cold, the spell seemed to do little to lighten his dark mood. "Bloody test," he muttered. "Bloody cold. Stupid, stupid, stupid." Squork squawked a hoarse agreement. Around him, the shapes of the others were little more than darkened mounds of snow-covered furs in the increasing snowfall.
Suddenly, one of the mounds teetered and fell, and Bohdi's head swiveled to determine who it was. It was the newcomer, Skalti! Bohdi stumbled through the snow to the young man's side.
"Garrett, Garrett!" Bohdi yelled over the wind and snow, but he couldn't be certain that the priest had heard him up the column. Bohdi fumbled in a pouch at his belt until he located a small, metallic pipe. He lifted the pipe to his mouth--the pipe was cold and nearly froze to his lips, but Bohdi ignored the pain--and blew repeatedly into the pipe. A shrill, high whistle pierced the snow and wind to catch the attention of the others.
Bohdi stayed by Skalti's side and rubbed the man's arms and legs, trying to muster some life back into the frozen limbs. As Garrett arrived, Bohdi explained the obvious: "He needs help!" Bohdi continued to rub the man's extremities as Garrett tended to him (Aid Another for +2 to Garrett's Heal check, DC=10 successful: d20=10). Bohdi regarded Skalti's frost-bitten face with pity. "Bloody fool, pushing himself so hard to catch up to us, must have done for him."
Bohdi offered to use his potion of cure light wounds on Skalti if Garrett were unable to aid him through Domi's grace (if used, CLW=7 hp).
Aiden d20=6 d20=8 Sunday January 9th, 2005 12:38:22 PM
Aiden continued to walk obviously not hearing the cries from Bohdi (especially them being set for Garrett).
[ooc: *snarky grin*]
However, with the shrill whistle (ooc: figuring a 10 would be enough to get his attention?), Aiden does stop and turn around.
(ooc: will wait for others to post/etc before I do my next round)
Nauthiz'Ull d20+7=19 Sunday January 9th, 2005 5:24:21 PM
As the fierce winds began to pick up, Nauthiz'Ull could swear that the air was whistling in his ears. Father is calming me while mother sings. "I hear youu Ull'Heimdall! I hear you Volva'Frigg!" Turning around in a slow circle with his arms raised, the foolish boy realizes that it was most certinly not his parents presence, but his pint-sized wunjo Bohdi trying desparately to attract unwanted attention from starving wolves. Running back to where Aiden and Garret and Bohdi are attending to the newcomer, Skalti, Nauthiz'Ull slides to a stop in front of Bohdi and rips the whistle from his hand. "Are you crazy wunjo! Every beast within miles knows that we are here now. That could prove our death." Panting from the quick sprint and the iciness fo the air, Nauthiz'Ull turns his attention to Skalti and tries his best to stabalize him. "Sis, what can you do for him?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Survival-19 (First aid in certain types of weather)
Frigg'Isa d20+9=22 Sunday January 9th, 2005 7:11:32 PM
At the sound of Bohdi's cry Frigg'Isa turns around. When she spies the slumped figure of Skalti next to him, Frigg'Isa quickly hurries back to him. Flopping down in the snow next to him, she swings off her backpack and pulls out her healer's kit. Using it, she does her best to stablize the poor worn out man to be (Heal 24 forgot to include kit bonus on roll).
"Garrett! It looks like he may need your healing powers before we make the hills. Hopefully we will be able to get him to camp."
Aiden Sunday January 9th, 2005 10:07:08 PM
Aiden looked over at Nauthiz as the leader of the band made his way to his sister and the fallen newcomer.
"I'll keep watch..." as he met Nauthiz's gaze directly with his own. Standing up, he made his way back towards the point of the group, trying to keep an eye (and ear) out for any creatures that may come.
Garrett Jax d20+3=5 d20+5=13 Monday January 10th, 2005 10:34:14 AM
Garrett continues on, initially unaware(I assume, listen 5) of Bohdi's call.
Garrett eventually realizes something is going on as the rest of the party has run over to Skalti and are making a commotion.
Garrett runs over to the rest of his friends and looks at Skalti. "I wish people would not be so headstrong as to refuse needed help when offered. First thing we need to do is prevent him from Suffering further due to the cold."
Garrett casts Endure Elements on Skalti(DC 14). "That will protect him from further harm." Garrett then casts cure minor on Skalti, and if that fails to bring him around, will cast a second cure minor.
If neither of those bring him to consciousness, Garrett will check to make sure that he is at least Stable(Heal check 13 with Bohdi's 2)
"He shouldn't suffer any further from the cold, but we will still need to get to some shelter and out of this coming storm as fast as possible. We need to get to the foothills, and we really need to find some wood for a fire."
Unless Bohdi wishes to use his CLW potion anyway, Garrett will wrap Skalti in his 2 winter blankets, put his shield on his back and carry Skalti over his shoulder(presently carrying 143 lbs w/ an 18 str).
Garrett Jax Monday January 10th, 2005 10:41:56 AM
If Skalti weighs too much for me too carry, Garrett will suggest "that we strap Skalti to my shield, tie a rope to the arm hold of the shield, and pull him on the makeshift sled."
Justin Webber (Co-DM) Problems in the Snow Monday January 10th, 2005 3:31:01 PM
Most people hear Bohdi's whistle call. Laying in the snow where Bohdi does his best to warm him is Skalti who has taken some nasty cold damage (non leathal).
Frigg'Isa does her best to help with Skalti's condition as Garret also casts a few spells on Skalti.
Skalti is beginning to feel abit warmer now and the attention is making the cold damage slowly wear off.
Aidan sees no threat yet in the snow but the storm coming is getting nastier.
Skalti should beable to move in alittle while as the effects of the snow is passing away. For now he still feels pretty cold and rather stiff muscle wise.
Bohdi Nackle Monday January 10th, 2005 4:49:45 PM
Bohdi watched as Skalti was tended to and began to recover. Satisfied that his efforts to aid the newcomer were rewarded and that Skalti would not die, Bohdi thanked Garrett and Frigg'Isa for their care and prepared to leave once more. The gnome stopped by Nauthiz'Ull, however, and extended a gloved hand. "My signal whistle, please," he requested firmly. His blue eyes gazed icily at the callow youth, and his companion was reminded that, for as small and youthful as he appeared, Bohdi was still Nauthiz'Ull's elder by more than double the young man's age. As the whistle was returned, Bohdi smiled thinly. "Thank you. And the next time that you think to behave so rashly--please, don't."
Without more, Bohdi continued his trudge toward the foothills. "I'm going to need a stiff cup of ice wine after all of this," he muttered to his familiar. Squork kept his own counsel.
ooc: assuming based on the previous posts that Bohdi's CLW potion wasn't needed. Just let me know if that's not true. Note that the mule, Yodel, could potentially pull the improvised sled/travois, to the extent that it's necessary after Garrett's healing.
Skalti Monday January 10th, 2005 8:36:24 PM
"Thank you so much"....Skalti says through blue lips and chattering teeth.
"I am very sorry to have caused you delay"..."I was really okay and thought I could go on when we met...this cold will really creep up on you."
"In case I should fall out again or even worse...I have some rations and feed in the packs on yodel...As well as a bit of canvas you may be able to use for warding off the snow when we camp."
"If I am unconcious or worse just take what you need."
"Thank all of you surely I would be lost without your skills." "I must compose a story or perhaps a ballad of your prowess and skills."
Aiden Monday January 10th, 2005 10:04:51 PM
Aiden, who had been quietly 'on guard', during this exchange actually had a small smile appear on his face.
~like we wouldn't...~ he THOUGHT to himself when Skaldi had implied the group take his possessions if he would fall. Now they were going to be in song...or prose....
~great...~ as he scowled into the distance. "Storm is moving closer, we need to make haste."
Nauthiz'Ull d20+2=22 Monday January 10th, 2005 10:45:54 PM
Firmly handing the whistle back to Bohdi, Nauthiz'ull sniffs and turns to Yodel. He strokes the mule's head as he tries to regain his lost anger. After a moment to himself Nauthiz'Ull returns to the group and helps get Skalti ready for the journey. "Why don't we get him up on Yodel and let him rest for a while. I doubt the mule would mind." He then heads over to stand by his sister and nudges her with his shoulder. He then leans over and whispers to his sister. Highlight to display spoiler: {"Good work sis. I could not ask for a better companion to accompany me on this journey."} After taking the moment to himself and with his sister, Nauth turns to the north and begins onwards with the rest of the group. He pats Aiden on the shoulder as he nears him. "Thank you for offering to guard, it was brave of you."
Garrett Jax Tuesday January 11th, 2005 8:46:15 AM
With Skalti quite comfortable and recovering after the spells and care of the group, Garrett assists in helping Skalti get ready to travel on Yodel(or pulled behind on the makeshift sled if it's too much weight for Yodel to carry).
As Garrett puts his gear back away and quickly gets ready to make haste with everyone to beat the storm, He turns to Frigg'Isa. "Well done on your healing of Skalti Frigg'Isa, you are quite skilled in the lending care and aid."
As we make our way to the foothills, Garrett is going to try and keep an eye on everyone not under the effects of endure elements to watch for signs of cold related problems so he can try to do something before it becomes severe.
Frigg'Isa Tuesday January 11th, 2005 10:18:52 AM
Frigg'Isa playfully returns Nauthiz's shoulder nudge with one of her own.
"I'm glad you're here too."
As Friga is repacking her backpack, Garrett's comment makes her look up.
"Ja, I know my way around healing Garrett. I do not think I will become as skilled as you are in the magical healing arena, but I do well with my herbs and mundane knowledge. Mjolka, my milk mother, has taught me much."
Turning to Skalti she gives him a good look up and down.
"If you feel you are able to walk and keep up that might be best. Your bodies movements will help keep you warm. I worry that the cold will attack you more if we allow you to ride, even if you are well covered."
Frigg'Isa pulls her waterskin from inside her furs and takes a drink, passing it to Skalti.
"I'm betting you don't even have any water to drink. If you do not carry your waterskin next to your body, it will harden. It is never good to drink iced water or eat snow. Both can severely tax your body."
Slinging her pack back onto her body, Frigg'Isa takes up place near Skalti whether he rides, walks, or is pulled in order to keep a close eye on his well being and that of the mule.
Aiden Tuesday January 11th, 2005 5:54:18 PM
Nodding after hearing Nauthiz' (OOC: is that the correct possessive?) response, Aiden answered, "Had to be done."
Without turning back, he added under his breath, "How are they enduring?" It was a broad question, but Aiden was quite sure that if one showed the wear and tear of the tundra, it was quite possible that at least two others were fatigued.
Justin Webber (DM) Snowy and glowing eyes Tuesday January 11th, 2005 10:15:06 PM
(OOC:Sorry to not mentioned. It will take either the CLW potion or spell to of cured Skalti out of the really bad stage.)
The group after getting Skalti set up to either ride or walk begin moving on trying to beat the coming storm. Your happy to find that even in the slightly darkening sky that the land is lit up pretty well. As you travel you do notice something in the snow up ahead.
There looks to be in the snow and possibly hill underneath the snow a about dwarf sized hole. Inside the darkness of the whole a couple sets of glowing yellow eyes watch you carefully. You can hear hissing of hot something dripping onto the ground and growing in loudness growls.
[Fortitude saves for those not magically protected. DC 18 dmg 5 non lethal and fatigued DC 19 dmg 2 non lethal and fatigued DC 20 dmg 1 non lethal and fatigued The following bonuses apply to everyone +5 Cold weather gear +2 Survival bonus (Forgot to mention the above stuff last round but for the moment here it is. It's still cold enough to cause some harm to those out in the cold.)
Skalti Wednesday January 12th, 2005 2:08:44 AM
"I believe I can walk on my own. I don't want to burden poor Yodel any more than he alreay is" "Rest assured I will let you know if I am going down if at all possible." Skalti says as he struggles to his feet.
Skalti ask rather excitedly while pointing towards the hole "What is THAT?" he exclaims while reaching for his flute.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday January 12th, 2005 7:48:27 AM ooc: I think Garrett cast two CLW spells, based on his earlier post, which would suggest that the potion wasn't used. Again, someone just tell me if I'm wrong.
Bohdi stopped in his tracks--already feeling a bit frozen, this was not difficult--at Skalti's exclamation. He looked in the direction that the young man was pointing. Oddly, even as frantic tension built in his body at the sight of glowing eyes and the sound of hungry growls, some calm, quiet part of the back of Bohdi's brain registered that, of all things, at this particular moment Skalti was reaching for ... his flute?
Wouldn't be my choice at this particular moment, but then again, who am I to judge? the gnome thought, followed quickly by: I wonder if these things like to eat gnomes. I bet I'd make for a nice appetizer, really. A bit rangy, with all the furs and such, but quite succulent in comparison to the barbarian types ....
That, in turn, was followed by a sharp mental kick. FOOL! MOVE!
Bohdi made it a practice always to listen to his inner voice when it got cross like that; it usually had something to do with saving his miserable little hide. Bohdi began back-pedaling, trying desperately not to squeal in terror as he did so. His hands groped for the stock of his crossbow.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+7=20 d20+7=19 d20+7=21 d20+5=20 d20+8=22 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 8:32:38 AM
As Skalti decided to head on, Nauthiz'Ull informs Aiden that the only one who looks worse for wear is Skalti. The group moves northward and the winds begin gnawing at Nauthiz'Ull's bones again. At times he grits his teeth to the biting cold but never looses step or complains. We need to make the hils quick. The weather is changing too quick and I am falling numb from the cold. As they trudge on Nauthiz'Ull sees the glowing yellow eyes and hears the growl. He stops and takes a moment to try and figure out what exactly the creature is and to survey the surroundings to see if there are more anywhre else. His instincts start to kick in as he immediately pieces his knowledge together to try and formulate a plan. "Everyone stay calm, no sudden movements." ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Fort1-24 Fort2-23 Fort3-25 I forgot to add my +4 FORT bonus to the roll Know:Nature-20 (figure out what animal it is, if the skill should be survival instead then the roll is 22) Spot-22 (To see if there are more in the area) Question to DM: When you say +5 gear and +2 survival for everyone in group in regards to saving throws, Do I get to use my full survival skill bonus as well?
DM answer you get your fort save + any bonuses we might list that is all. In your case d20+11 is your present fort save vs the cold
Frigg'Isa d20+3=13 d20+4=20 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 10:20:15 AM
Frigg'Isa walks along side Skalti making sure that he is going to be alright. Even though Garrett cast a spell on him to help him endure the cold, his body had already taken a lot of damage.
Hearing the growls, Friga's brown eyes travel from the newest member of their small group to the hole in the snow. Upon seeing the yellow eyes looking back at her, she carefully reaches for her sling. Still moving carefully, she reaches into the pouch at her waist that hold her bullets and loads one into the sling.
Trying to keep one eye on the hole, Frigg'Isa tries to get an idea if there are any more in the area (Spot 13, Listen 20).
Garrett Wednesday January 12th, 2005 1:49:27 PM
(ooc. Garrett actually only cast 2 cure minor spells on Skalti, good for only 2 hp. It was all I had left after using my last first level spell on endure elements for him. If more than that was needed, then Bohdi will need to use the potion.)
Garrett Moves forward slowly toward the new threat that has arisen. He is going to position himself up at the front of the group with the rangers, But at a location so he is generally between the hole and Skalti. Garrett then slowly pulls his sword and shield and prepares for combat.
"Nauthiz'Ull, Aiden, what do you guys think here, wolf den? or something else?"
Bohdi (illegal second post, ooc) Wednesday January 12th, 2005 2:03:47 PM ooc: Based on what Garrett said, please deduct Bohdi's CLW potion from his inventory. My understanding of Skalti's non-lethal damage was that he took 8 hp damage on 6 total hp, leaving him at -2. So the potion would have been necessary for him to regain consciousness (and actually would have brought him back to full hp).
Posting to the group rather than private to DMs so that everyone's clear. We now return you to your regularly scheduled frigidity.
Aiden d20=12 d12=9 d12=1 d12=5 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 6:36:27 PM
Aiden grunted slightly to affirm to Nauthiz that Skaldi was the only person who was in difficulty.
He kept his eyes scanning for a place to use as a spot to ride out the storm, or at least the worst part of it, when he noted the dwarf sized hole with several yellow eyes. Slowly looking downward, he tried to see if the tracks that they had been following led to the den (of sorts), or if it was an entirely new creature.
Aiden remained calm even as he noticed the eyes and heard the growl. "Could be...Wolves could be our friends...or enemies..."
Aiden's large form begins to shiver a bit, starting to turn a slight blue...even as his knees began to buckle and his form sway. It appears that the proud ranger was going to fall.
(ooc: would I use tracking in order to determine if the tracks lead to where the eyes were...if so, I rolled a 12 + whatever modifiers you want me to add in)
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