Tratain Wednesday December 15th, 2004 11:03:25 AM
Tratain will spend the next Day makeing sure the slaves are well. If any are injured he will care for them.
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday December 15th, 2004 11:07:30 AM
The brothers lie lazily in the corner, keeping an eye on the happenings in the hall with a disinterested gaze. Mostly, they would like to sleep, but even with the implied guarantees of their safety, they are uncomfortable sleeping anywhere near (let alone in sight) of beings that once hunted him and his kin.
Renik d20+5=10 Wednesday December 15th, 2004 11:09:14 AM
The rogue places no further bets for now. Instead he retires for the night and spends the following day attempting to quietly discover if the halfling lass they were asked to find is one of the slaves at the camp.
(Gather Info 10: Bah.)
Jerome (Feng) Wednesday December 15th, 2004 5:28:19 PM
Feng is caught offguard by the princesses visit. Initially he's at a loss for words but he quickly calms his nerves and finds his voice. Never has such a beautiful woman paid him this kind of attention and he found that he rather liked it.
"Princess what a pleasent suprise. The lands I hail from you say?" Feng says with a pleasant smile and pauses to think about it. "The land I hail from is quite vast. There are crystal blue oceans and lush green forests. There is even a city that floats in the air. If you wished to go I would take you to see all of it while keeping you safe from all those that would wish you harm."
After the Princess leaves Feng will take a moment to walk the quiet castle halls and take in the moment. He often dreamed of a moment like he received at the party and never wants to forget it. The look on the king's face and the subtle smile from the princess was priceless to him. As he walks he does keep an eye out for their target in case lady luck is favoring them this night.
The next morning Feng sits before the plant, thinking hard on the problem. This one had him quite stumped. "Shandy if I am to remove the peas from the plant without harming it in any way I may have a problem. Even if I were to take a knife and gently cut the pod open the plant would still be damaged."
A Lazy Day (Day Two) (DM Cayzle) Wednesday December 15th, 2004 7:06:26 PM
This is the second day of the party's visit.
In the Tapestry
The Princess is very pleased at Feng/Jerome's words. She says, "I would like nothing better! I often feel that this magical place is almost too perfect to be real. How I long to go to a more mundane place. Fare well in the morrow's challenge."
The gardener is happy to talk with Rond/Shandy. The worker is eager to hear that Jerome will not harm his plants. "They are special creatures, and very sensitive. I talk to them all the time. It helps them grow. And they are very responsive." The gardener continues to char about plants with Shandy.
THe next day, at the plant, both Jerome and Shandy are faced with the pea plant. You see that it is a beautiful and healthy plant. The pods are ripe with big peas -- you can see their outlines through the pods. Shandy notices that the pea plant moves gently in the breeze ... or against the breeze?
What do you do?
[OOC: No need for rolls or checks or saves in the Tapestry. Just say what you want to do. Hint -- think outside the box, folks. You are not in a D&D game any more ... you two are in a fairy tale! What would a fairy tale hero do?]
==========
In Bone Castle
Drax discovers that he is as free as he likes. He can come and go. But he cannot enter certain private quarters in the castle. Guards stop him if he tries.
Sarigar keeps a lazy eye open but notices nothing.
The snake man shrugs at Setanos and leaves him to his own devices.
Tratain finds that there is much work to be done among the slaves. There are wounds to heal, diseases to treat, and so on. The giants watch him with alert bemusement (unless Tratain is trying to be covert?)
Renik talks with some halflings, working the small crowd that comes to see Tratain. None are able to help him at first. "What is her name?" one asks.
Is Renik trying to be covert?
During the day, the drow wizard approaches Renik. "How is your friend planning on bringing his treasure out?"
Rond/Shandy Wednesday December 15th, 2004 11:28:43 PM
Rond whipsers to his knight, "Try telling the plant your plight, and that you would really like to win the hand of the princess, but that you fear you cannot do it without the plants help........Failing that, sing to the plant about how well it looks, and if only it could spare a pea."
Renik d20+5=22 Thursday December 16th, 2004 8:20:20 AM
The rogue continues to make his subtle enquiries. He encourages Tratain to continue his good work publicly, explaining to any guards that approach "He's always been like this. Can't pass by without lending a helping hand. A good man to have around, don't you agree?"
Meanwhile his questioning continues. He wracks his brains, trying to remember details of the lass that Feng had mentioned. It had been Benny's lost love from Angel Springs, gone some 2 years now. What was her name again? Elly? Vera? No, Ivy, that was it. Ivy from Angel Springs.
(Gather Info 22, covert)
Feng/ Jerome Thursday December 16th, 2004 9:54:30 AM
Jerome takes a seat on the ground before the plant, humbling himself before it. Jerome spends many minutes just looking at the beautiful plant before speaking.
"Oh beautiful plant I am in a dreadful situation. I wish for the hand of the fair princess but I cannot do it without your help. Please grant me your peas."
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday December 16th, 2004 10:58:01 AM
Come morning, the brothers are beyond bored and more than a little claustrophobic. They leave the main hall out into the courtyard. They jog around a bit, just to get some exercise, though they try to keep relatively out of sight of the slaves (no sense flaunting their freedom).
After maybe an hour, they return to the pack's house and find a corner to curl up in and get some much wanted sleep.
Draax Thursday December 16th, 2004 4:23:06 PM
As he waits to the show to begin again, Draax will walk around the keep trying to get a good feel for his surroundings.
Like Peas Out Of A Pod (Day Two, evening) (DM Cayzle) Thursday December 16th, 2004 8:59:14 PM
[OOC: Had been waiting for more posts, but alas.]
In Bone Castle
The day passes, and Renik does discover the female halfling! Wonder of wonders, it is she! A maid in the off-limits private quarters, but you can catch her tomorrow at daybreak if you are quick.
Drax and Sarigar remain alert.
The drow wizard does not look pleased when Renik does not answer him -- but does not pursue it, for today.
That evening, the Hamleteers not in the Tapestry sit down for the nightly feast. Once again, there is a lot of betting. Once again, if you make a spot check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You see the giant chief hand a bag over to the Drow mage.}
Then the Tapestry opens for the night.
==========
In the Tapestry
The voice sounds from behind the curtain:
"The king has set a new task -- to gather peas from closed pods, without hurting the plant. The gardener told Storm that the pods would open if surprised."
Within the Tapestry the suitors try to extract peas without hurting the plant. Waerlag (the mind flayer) and Redstone (the derro) fail at the task.
Terstin (the bard) sings the pods open with a beautiful song. Storm (the giant king's son) yells at the plant, scaring the pods open. Calimenes (the snake man) summons moles to tickle the plant's roots; the pod opens when the plant laughs. And Jerome's (Feng's) humility also wins the plant over, and it opens of its own accord.
The king meets the suitors and says, "This task was too easy! The four of you who won must compete in a new task to see who is the most gentle."
"Within the next fortnight, go out and return with the softest, most fragile thing you can. The princess will judge who gathers that which requires the most gentle touch."
Renik Friday December 17th, 2004 5:46:44 AM
The rogue apologises to the mage, and says "In truth I do not know. I trust his judgement, I'm sure he'll work something out. This is a new experience for all of us."
Renik does not make further contact with Ivy for now, but informs his companions that she is there, and that when this is done they will have at least one slave to free. Hopefully if they take Ivy back to Angel Springs with their tale a larger force can be raised to free the remaining captives.
He continues to watch the Tapestry developments with fascination, applauding when Feng succeeds at the pea task. He looks forard to seeing what he comes up with for the next challenge.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+14=32 d20-2=9 Friday December 17th, 2004 1:37:29 PM
Back in the feasting hall, Sarigar keeps more to his corner this time, still uncomfortable being in the same room with the giants and drow. The other races present are virtually unknown to him, thus he has no uneasiness around them.
Perhaps out of distrust or just his normal attentiveness of his surroundings, he catches sight of the Giant King's transaction (Spot 32). Although he himself has no idea what it was probably about, his inherent distrust of the Giants and Drow compel him to alert Renik to what he saw as subtlty as he can (Diplomacy 9).
Jerome/ Feng Friday December 17th, 2004 5:48:41 PM
Feng wasn't suprised that there would be another contest. Truthfully he was hoping there would be more. This was a challenge he was enjoying very much. And while he had an idea as to what to show the princess he had no idea how.
In the Doldrums (Day Three) (DM Cayzle) Saturday December 18th, 2004 7:18:11 PM
In Bone Castle
The day is hot and humid, despite the winter season. The hot springs are active, and spout out vast plumes of steam and foul gasses. The ground is warm to touch.
In keeping with the weather, the party is lethargic, and so are the giants and other guests. Still, sharp-eyed Sarigar tells Renik about the fiunds the giant chief seems to keep giving the wizard.
==========
In the Tapestry
Our heros find themselves outside the King's Castle Gate. The Wind Mage and Storm rush off together. The Animal Friend dashes off fast. The Bard, the Mind Reader, Jerome, and Shandy are left standing there.
"I see from your empty heads that you are a little lost," the Mind Reader tells the Bard and Jerome. "What will you do?"
"Darned if I know!" the bard says. "What about you, friend?" he asks Jerome.
Renik Sunday December 19th, 2004 2:21:17 PM
Renik nods when sarigar passes on the news. "Well, either the king is making another side-bet, or more likely he is trying to stack the odds in his favour, and against us. Let us keep a very close eye on the mage during these Tapestry sessions. He he looks to be working magics that might influence the game we may need to figure out a way to distract him. Arien, how might we best go about that, do you think?"
Tratain d20+9=18 Monday December 20th, 2004 12:25:20 AM
Tratain says to Renik "Aye I noticed him aswell." Tratain continues to care for the Slaves unless someone directly tells him to stop. Tratain does not attempt to be covert at all.
Tratain suggests to Renik, "Perhapse we should make a bet with the giant to have him Free the slaves or treat them as his subjects instead of slaves. Feng Promised Benny that we would search for the Halfling Lass, we should try and return her to him if we can."
Draax Monday December 20th, 2004 4:18:08 AM
"The Drow did say that he would influence the tapestry for a price. I guess the king is using his money and power to give his son an upper hand."
Setanos Monday December 20th, 2004 7:24:44 AM
Setanos spends his time watching the situation and remaining for the most part with Tratain. He tries to be ever alert, but the stress of the situation is clearly weighing on him.
Jerome/ Feng Monday December 20th, 2004 7:59:24 AM
"I'm not entirely sure. This is a strange place and there is no telling what I could find out here. I think I'll just walk around and see what I see." Jerome replied.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+30=50 d20+15=22 Monday December 20th, 2004 3:21:18 PM
On Renik's suggestion, during the time of the next "reading" of the tapestry, the brothers will try to find an inconspicuous spot (Hide 50, Nat 20) from which to watch (Spot 22) the Drow wizard conducting the show.
The feasting continues as it has on earlier nights, and you come to understand that "feasting" is normal fare for giants. No wonder they need so many slaves working their fields and flocks! And thank goodness! If hunger didn't keep their numbers in check, they might overrun the Wold.
Sarigar has no problem spotting the giant chief paying off the Drow wizard. And he sees that the chief is placing a lot of bets -- which, if he wins, will easily cover his costs, and to spare.
Moreover, the sharp-eyed fellow sees that when the drow stands behind the Tapestry, he is writing in a large book just before the show starts. If you make an Int Check vs DC12, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You realize that when the Voice recounts the story thus far -- including a new aside that favors Storm -- as the wizard writes.}
Setanos, Tratain, and Drax also keep alert -- Setanos noteces the head Snake Woman also slips the wizard a small purse.
==========
In the Tapestry
The Tapestry reveals its story as it has the past two nights. The Voice summarizes the tale so far.
"The King's next task is to gather the most delicate of all things in the world. Warrior Storm and the wind mage Redstone had a wonderful idea, and beastfriend Calimenes saw his plan come to quick fruition."
The Tapestry reveals that Calimenes is fast to find a nest with baby birds. He brings one -- a very cute one -- with him back to the castle and the princess.
Storm and Redstone go up into the mountains. Redstone huddles and calls Snow to him, and Storm carries the mage back down. Showflakes follow as they return to the castle.
But what of Terstin and Jerome? Time grows short, and they have not yet gathered anything!
Draax Tuesday December 21st, 2004 12:42:44 AM
Although he knows he should not be surprised because of their size, Draax is still amazed at the amount of food consumed by the giants.
He watches the next scene with interest, wondering what event the recent money transfers will have on the current task.
Feng/ Jerome Tuesday December 21st, 2004 2:20:35 AM
When the time comes Jerome returns empty handed. No beautiful flower or bottled breeze rests in his hands. It's not that he didn't try to find something. He looked and looked for something that caught his eye but in the end there was nothing. Yet that was exactly as he hoped. All that remained was to make his presentation to the Princess.
Tratain Tuesday December 21st, 2004 12:29:56 PM
Tratain watches the tapestry with interest, wondering what Feng has in Mind. He also keeps an eye out for anyone else passing money to the Giants or the mage.
He says to Renik "Do you think they are paying to have the tapestry influenced in ther favor?"
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+1=12 d20-2=11 Tuesday December 21st, 2004 1:23:17 PM
Seeing the Gaint and Drow's transaction, despite his naivete in such matters, he is able to deduce that they do in fact seem to be cheating. As before, he tries to subtly inform Renik of his discovery (Diplomacy 11).
Renik Tuesday December 21st, 2004 3:31:59 PM
Renik nods to Tratain. "I'm certain of it. Draax is right, the mage as good as told us that influence in the game could be bought."
"Hmm, well as I see it we only have two choices. Trust in Feng's ability to overcome a stacked deck" he glances over at the tapestry and hopes desperately that Feng pulls something pretty special out of the bag soon "Or we cheat ourselves. Do we have any more money available to serve as a bribe?"
Things Get More Complicated (Still Third Day, Evening) (DM Cayzle) Tuesday December 21st, 2004 4:22:54 PM
Choices, choices! What will Jerome do? How will those outside the Tapestry affect what happens within? Or will they?
In the Tapestry
Calimenes offers the princess a baby chick. "peep!"
"It is darling," she exclaims.
Storm presents his offering, and snowflakes fall on the princess' hair and hands -- "Snowflakes are so delicate, they cannot long endure even a princess' touch."
She looks at the cool flakes, smiling. "Well done."
Then she turns to Jerome.
[OOC: Please continue to post your actions. I'll continue to post through the holidays if there are things to respond to -- but no worries if you are busy at this time of year.]
Feng/Jerome Tuesday December 21st, 2004 8:42:16 PM
Jerome steps forward and kneels before the princess. "Fair Princess I have seen many things this day. All were beautiful and delicate but none of them qualified. See in my eyes your beauty outshines everything. A beauty that should be cherished and protected above all else."
And Even More Complicated (Still Third Day, Evening) (DM Cayzle) Wednesday December 22nd, 2004 8:49:49 PM In the Tapestry
The bard, Terstin, leaps ahead of Jerome. He bows low, and says to the princess, "My love for you is the most delicate thing I know, but it is also strong beyond measure."
She looks at him, and says, "To protect that love, you would like to keep me here with you forever, would you not?"
The bard practically swoons with happiness. "Oh, yes! Yes!"
The woman turns from him. "Then I could not select you!" The bard's face falls.
Then it is Jerome's chance. He offers the princess her own beauty as the most delicate of all.
The princess, whose name is Palahandra, is indeed a beauty without equal. But it is not the complement to her appearance that causes her gaze to fix on Jerome like a compass on true north. What rivets her are his words, "cherished and protected above all else."
She rises, and Jerome sees that her cheeks are flushed. She says to Jerome, "Do you truly mean it, worthy knight? Would you protect my beauty from all threats? Even from the greatest threat a beauty can face? The threat of an unhappy marriage?"
"Would you protect me even if it meant stealing me away from here, and taking me long distances to your own home land?"
"To protect me, would you take me from here right now?"
It seems to Jerome that the entire world has stopped moving, waiting for his answer.
In Bone Castle
The guests jump to their feet at this odd turn of events! Some roar and demand to know how to resolve their bets. The tumult is great.
Draax Thursday December 23rd, 2004 1:28:23 AM
Looking at the tapestry as the scene unfolds Draax is just as surprised as the others in the hall at the turn of events. He can not keep himself from smiling as he notices the reaction of the giants and their guests.
Renik Thursday December 23rd, 2004 5:42:44 AM
"Now this could get interesting" murmurs the rogue.
"I hope our mage doesn't consider the princess to be 'treasure'. Feng better get his hands on some loot before he comes out or we may have a disgruntled drow wizard on our hands to add to the folks unhappy about Feng winning the favour of the princess."
He looks around cheerily, and calls out "what's the problem lads? We bet on who wins the hand of the princess, right? Looks like my boy is doing OK!"
Feng/ Jerome Thursday December 23rd, 2004 9:55:35 AM
Feng should be thinking about the man they were there to find. Plan on retrieving the items and escaping from the tapestry. He knew all these things but couldn't bring himself to think about them. For he was captivated by the princess. Never had such a woman looked at him as she did now.
"Yes I would." Jerome replied.
The Flight! (DM Cayzle) Thursday December 23rd, 2004 11:50:46 PM
In the Tapestry
"Then take me away! Let us run while we can!" The princess grabs Jerome by the hand and runs! Shandy follows on their heels, and they try to make their escape.
As soon as they depart, the spell lifts from the King and the other suitors. The King grows wroth and terrible! A great rage is on him!
"Go! You loyal men! Confront this upstart! Whosoever brings back my daughter to me shall be her husband!"
The remaining suitors give chase, but the princess knows all the secret ways, and she leads Jerome and Shandy out of the castle.
The King touches each of the suitors with his scepter -- the Wind mage, the Animal friend, the Mind reader, and Musician, and the Warrior.
The King says, "I will set you each in their path! You will confront them one by one! Surely one of you will stop them!"
As he touches each suitor, the suitor is magically transported far ahead of Jerome and the princess, between them and the border of the kingdom.
Meanwhile, Jerome, Shandy, and Palahandra have escaped the castle and are running through the thickets that grow around-abouts. They are on a path, but they see an old man whose beard is entangled in the thicket. He is quite trapped.
"I wish we could help that old man," Palahandra says, "but I fear the King is on our trail and we must run! run!"
In Bone Castle
The crowd immediately starts making bets on who will stop Jerome. The Hamleteers watching must surely wonder themselves about what will happen. If only there were some way for them to help their friends!
And even if Jerome wins free, what of their mission to retrieve the communication item? What of the wizard's treasure-seeking? What if the giants are not pleased with the end of the fairy tale? How will our Hamleteers prepare for that?
BUT! the wizard has had enough for one night! He draws the Tapestry closed, so that the company can wager and sleep!
Renik Friday December 24th, 2004 4:16:27 AM
"Be true to yourself and the tale Feng!" Renik shouts at the tapestry as the paladin encounters the entangled man. He is getting quite caught up in the excitement, and only wishes he had more money to wager. Then again, he thinks to himself, it's probably a good thing he doesn't.
Just a shame that Feng can't get that sceptre on his way out, it looks worth a pretty penny...
And then the game is done for the night. Turning to his companions as they leave he says "We are going to need a contingency plan if things turn nasty. We'll need to get out of here fast. I can get out under my own power, by turning invisible and flying out. How many more can say thye same? Arien, how many can you transport away? How many of you have your own strategems for escape? Once again, if we do get out we meet at the same rendezvous point as before. Let's not forget, before going anywhere I want to pick up Ivy."
Feng/ Jerome Friday December 24th, 2004 5:34:27 PM
He turns to Palahandra and says, "Princess this will take but a moment and if that moment is too much then we wouldn't escape anyway. We can't run through the night and while your knowledge of the palace is impressive he might know this area and help us slip through."
Jerome stepped forward and began to carefully extract the man from the thicket. "Just hold for one moment sir and you shall be free."
Cayzle OOC Friday December 24th, 2004 6:27:19 PM
With posting pretty slow during the holidays, go ahead and continue to post, oh ye Hamleteers, and the next DM turn will be Monday. Merry Xmas!
old man Saturday December 25th, 2004 8:05:37 PM
Help me.
Oh please help me.
This beard, it has forsaken me.
These words, from my mouth they seem strange to mine ears.
Thank you, young sir.
Feng/ Jerome Monday December 27th, 2004 10:39:41 AM
"It is no trouble sir. I'm just glad I could help. Best to find shelter. There are dangerous men out this night."
The Hunt Is On (Fourth Day) (DM Cayzle) Monday December 27th, 2004 5:15:11 PM
In Bone Castle
The next day -- the fourth day that the Hamleteers have enjoyed the giants' hospitatlity -- dawns bright and clear. Feeling restless, the giant chieftain invites everyone to a dire boar hunt.
If you choose to go, describe what you do on the hunt.
In the Tapestry
Feng, Rond, and the Old Man all share a strange sense of having met before. There is some link among these three, it seems clear. Even the princess picks up on it. "Do you know this old man?" she asks Jerome.
"But we must away!" she cries, and she is eager to get moving.
Draax Tuesday December 28th, 2004 1:17:58 AM
Draax joins the chieftain on the hunt. He decides to go with the group that is responsible for flushing out and directing the boar towards those desiring to be in on the kill.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+30=37 d20+25=45 d20+19=31 Tuesday December 28th, 2004 9:04:05 AM
The brothers are willing to go on a hunt, but is more than a little leary of hunting with the giants, therefore, they will split off (Hide 37, Move Slient 45) on their own hunting trip (Survival 31) at their earliest convienence.
Feng/ Jerome Tuesday December 28th, 2004 9:46:52 AM
Jerome steps back and looks at the old man. He very well could know him in the real world but until they got out of the tapestry they would get no answer. He couldn't tell the old man who he is anymore than he could fly. At least he didn't think he could fly.
"I might and I might not. I really don't know. Sir you are welcome to travel with us but we are in a big hurry if you haven't already figured that out."
Tratain d20+9=16 Tuesday December 28th, 2004 11:48:46 AM
Tratain continues to watch the tapestry and everyone in the room checking to see if anymore money changes hands. (Spot 16)
Renik Tuesday December 28th, 2004 2:14:25 PM
Renik joins Draax on the hunt, but decides to stick with the hunting party. He does his best to get into conversation with the giants, to find out a little bit more about them and their camp. He tries particularly to get to speak with the king, figuring that any relationship he can forge is not going to hurt if events go awry later.
That evening he continues to watch the Tapestry events unfold, intrigued by the arrival of this new player. He nudges Arien and says "I wish there was something we could do to help. Other than filling the coffers of that Drow, of course."
The First Challenge (Fourth Day, Evening) (DM Cayzle) Tuesday December 28th, 2004 5:43:36 PM
At Bone Castle
The hunting party is a huge success. Drax organizes the flushers, and a half-dozen white-furred boars fall to the giants' spears. Renik does more talking than hunting, but his charming manners work to his advantage.
Renik, if you can make a Diplomacy or Gather Info check of 15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: { You learn that the giant chief's younger son, Prince Hadram, is jealous of his father and older brother, Strahm/Storm.}
Renik, if you can make a Diplomacy or Gather Info check of 25, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: { You learn that Prince Hadram would love to kill his brother and father if he thought he could get away with it! He might be open to a deal if the party were to aid him. Especially if his brother died in the Tapestry.}
Sarigar brings down a Dire Boar of his own, and gains the amused praise of the giants in spades, when they fiind him with a dead beast that outweighs him by far!
That evening, at the feast of boar meat, there is a lively round of betting, mostly against our Hero, Jerome. Tratain sees the drwo mage in conversation with the giant chief. The drow seems a little flustered, as if he were himself a little confused -- maybe by the appearance of the old man.
In the Tapestry
Jerome, Shandy, the Old Man, and the Princess flee towards the border of the King's realm. They do not know that the King has put suitors in their path.
The first obstacle is the Mind Reader. Suddenly he is in the path before them. "Stop! Turn back!" he declares. "I know what you are trying to do! Your secrets are clear to me! You have no hope! Get back!"
Our heros begin to feel confused in their minds. Maybe this fellow is right? Maybe they should head back to the King?
At Bone Castle
The betting is fierce, but most place Jerome and Shady's odds at 50-50 to beat the mental wizard.
Renik d20+3=19 d20+5=7 Tuesday December 28th, 2004 6:59:39 PM
Diplomacy 19, Gather Info 7
Renik chats at length with the younger son of the king, Prince Hadram. He attempts to encourage the youngster to bet against his brother.
"Let me tell you Hadram, my older brother Tarl was a one. Though he was faster and stronger than me he was twisted. He was corrupt, wicked, and eventualy my father chose me over him to continue his work. I became his heir, not because I was first born (I wasn't), but because I was most deserving. Perhaps your own father should have done the same, for you strike me as a worthy and valiant son, unlike the ill-disciplined oaf I have seen failing challenges within the tapestry. It is hard when talent loses out to heredity."
The rogue is looking to stir up whatever mischief he can. The words of the rock troll have not been forgotten, and he reminds his companions of them. "There is no love lost between the various factions here. If you can it cannot hurt to stir up the rivalry between the groups in this camp. It may ultimately play to our advantage."
Draax Wednesday December 29th, 2004 2:47:56 AM
Draax has to admit to himself that he had a good time on the boar hunt and is enjoying himself while being guest of the giants. He is glad that Renik keeps reminding them of their goal or he would get lost in the activities. While watching the story he becomes intrigued by the appearance of the old man and wondered who he might be.
Arien Wednesday December 29th, 2004 3:15:18 AM
Arien watches the happenings with interest when the old man appears. After seeing the drow mage's reaction he wonders if perhaps the tapestry is completely under his control or if it is possible that another outside force is at work here.
old man Wednesday December 29th, 2004 4:12:36 AM
"How do we get out of the tapestry?" the old man looks confused.
"Have you seen my brother?" he asks with a bewildered look on his face.
"Do I know you two from somewhere?" says the old man as he sits down to scratch his head for a few moments.
scratch... scratch I must be getting well old scratch
Feng/ Jerome Wednesday December 29th, 2004 10:40:38 AM
Jerome was rather confused. Perhaps going back was the right thing to do. What was the point of trying if there was no hope in succeeding. If this man knew what he was trying to do then who...wait a minute. He had no idea what he was going to do. He had no idea how to get out of the tapestry or where he should go.
Jerome turns to the mind reader and says, "How can you know what I am going to do when I don't?"
Apologetic Cayzle Wednesday December 29th, 2004 6:22:12 PM
Gosh Darn It!
Sorry, Hamleteers! After chiding you all, I just HAVE to miss today! I'll post bright and early tomorrow! Sorry!
The First Defeat? (Fifth Day) (DM Cayzle) d100=2 d100=44 d20=18 d20=3 [random DM rolls] Thursday December 30th, 2004 8:38:19 AM
In Bone Castle
Engaged by Renik's opinions, the younger giant prince enjoys the small fellow's company much of the day. Hadram and his friends -- himself and four young "turks" of the clan -- greatly enjoy the tone of Renik's remarks.
At one point Hadram, who seems clever enough, says to Renik, "I wouldn't mind betting against Storm, but I can't do so openly. Here, my new friend, take this 2,000 gold and bet it on your pal for me, without telling anyone where you got the money."
Watching the Tapestry last night jiggled some memory in Drax, and he wonders over the next day about it. Something about that little old man ... maybe because he seems a little crazy, a little wild? Maybe something around the nose? He seems like someone who might be knowm to you.
Arien is sure that the Drow doesn't really know exactly what he is doing! For one thing, the power of this magic item is incredible. This is not mortal magic! But although Caunas Methar may be somewhat out of his league, it is clear that he has a better idea how it works than anyone else. Maybe the secrets are in that book the Drow carries with him behind the Tapestry. It occurrs to Arien that asking the Drow to make a change might serve to purposes: to aid his friends in the device, and to see how such changes are made. If only he could clearly spy behind the Tapestry during a viewing.
In the Tapestry
The old man and Jerome struggle against the confusing power of the mind reader. Shandy seems entirely daunted. The Princess, too, seems lost in doubt. Will our heroes be able to break free? How will they defeat him?
==========
[OOC: The end of this scene is in sight, friends. There are five suitors -- the Mind Reader, the Minstrel, the Wind Mage, the Animal Friend, and the Warrior. I want to make one post during the day at the Castle, and another for the night's activities (as I have generally been doing). That means about 8 more posts to win through to the border of the kingdom. That means you get two posts to defeat each suitor. If you do not, you will end up a prisoner of the King!
Your challenge is to play this like a free form, no-rules diceless role play game. Come up with a course of action, and describe it. Be creative! Hesitating gets you no where. Remember your strengths -- Jerome is a strong and clever knight, and probably the second best warrior in the kingdom; Shandy has keen eyes and notices thing; Old Man, see my e-mail. And the most important thing in a fairy tale -- our heroes have pure hearts and are noble, good, and kind!
The people outside the Tapestry have things to do, too! Consider ways to help your friends, either now, or when they emerge. Think ahead and plan for what might happen in 8 or 9 posts!
Cayzle]
Renik d20+13=27 Thursday December 30th, 2004 11:33:51 AM
Renik takes the money and nods seriously. "Willingly my friend. I only wish there was more I could do."
He hesitates, as if debating what he is about to say next. Then he turns back to Hadram and says "When the contestants emerge from the Tapestry I anticipate some bad blood. If Storm loses and my man wins there is likely to be an angry confrontation, from what I have seen of your brother. All I would say is... stand ready, my friend. Stand ready. We will see how things transpire, eh?"
Later the rogue speaks to Arien. "We need to see if we can effect the outcome of this adventure. To do that we need to get a closer look at what the wizard is up to. One of us must spy on him tonight. I suggest it be you, as you'll have a better grasp of any magical forces at work. Make yourself undetectable and see what you can discover. See if you can learn the secret of his power over the Tapestry. I'd also like you to investigate the feasability of killing the mage and taking his place on the final night. It may not be possible, but it cannot hurt to investigate all our options."
Next he speaks to Tratain. "Tratain, we will need to get Ivy out of the camp. Having been working with the slaves for several days now means you are best placed to determine a course of action without arousing suspicion. Make contact with her if you wish, see if she can offer any advice. When we leave we may need to leave fast, so we need to know that she is either already out or ready to go."
Then he speaks to Draax. "Draax, you seem to have been getting on pretty well with the people here. We know that there is no love lost between the sons of the king. I want you to find out, subtly, if there are any other divisions between these peoples we can exploit. Who hates who? Can we plant any scurrilous rumours that will stir up aggression? Find out what you can and report back."
"Sarigar, I want you to scout the camp. How many people of each race are here? How frequent are the guard patrols? What are their routes? Are there any blind spots within the castle? If we wanted to break out quietly which would be our best route? I want you to plan for a hurried departure, or a secretive one. Work out how we can best get out of here using stealth or violence."
He then tries to find Setanos, who he has not seen in some time.
That night the rogue places the 2000 on Feng to win, and speaks a while with the wizard.
"I'm intrigued sir. Are you able to alter the course of events from here outside the tapestry? Can you communicate with those within? How is such a thing posible? Surely you powers must be inhuman to tame such powerful magics!" (Bluff 27)
old man Thursday December 30th, 2004 2:35:02 PM
Filling his head with the confusion he truly feals the old man trys to pass the mind reader.
Arien d20+4=23 Friday December 31st, 2004 4:06:51 AM
Arien takes a moment at the start of the day to make some changes to the spells he has memorized for his little hiding game later on. Later during the feast Arien excuses himself saying he had to releave himself. As he steps outside he makes sure that no one is looking and quickly quaffs his potion of invisibility and slips back inside before the door closes. Back inside Arien moves over to behind the tapestry and positions himself so he can see what the drow wizard is up to while staying out of his way.
(Move Silently: 23)
0 Level: Detect Magic x2, Light, Read Magic x2 1st Level: Burning Hands, Magic Missile x5, Protection from Evil 2nd Level: Rope Trick, Scorching Ray x4, Extended Shield, Extended Mage Armor 3rd Level: Displacement, Dispel Magic, Fireball x2, Fly, Lightning Bolt 4th Level: Dimension Door x2, Evard's Black Tentacles, Ice Storm, Stone Skin 5th Level: Summon Monster V x2, Cone of Cold, Silent Dimension Door 6th Level: Chain Lightning x2, Veil
Tratain Friday December 31st, 2004 5:09:59 PM
Tratain Nods at Reniks Orders and begins to contemplate how best to carry them out. He suggests to Renik "If Arien needs to see how the tapestry magic works lets propose a small alteration of our own, Nothing big but perhapse the order in which the others confront Feng? Say, Storm Next and the bard last? That way maybe Feng will be able to get the bard to come along with them."
Tratain attempts to make contact with Ivy to see if she has an advice about how to free her and the other slaves.
Crazy Old Man! (Fifth Day, Evening) (DM Cayzle) Saturday January 1st, 2005 9:20:10 PM
In Bone Castle
As you had learned before, this Ivy works as a handmaid inside Bone Castle during the day. Tratain waits outside the castle as the shifts change, and he sees a few female halflings leaving in the evening. He approaches and talks to the one who turns out to be Ivy.
She is overjoyed at the idea of leaving her life of slavery and returning to Crescent Valley. "Oh, sir!" she says, "Please please save me! And if you can, save my friends as well! You seem to have a good heart, and are very powerful! Surely you can save a few small halflings?"
There is no more time to talk since she has to run off.
During the feast that evening, Renik talks to the drow mage. He admits that the magic of the Tapestry is very difficult to master. "The danger is that it will do things you do not expect!" he tells Renik.
He also says that he can alter the course of events, but that control is not certain. Is Renik interested in giving it a try?
Arien stations himself. After the feast, the drow stands behind the Tapestry with a big book. As the Tapestry begins, the drow seems to read from the book. Or maybe reading the book starts the Tapestry? The mage seems to consider writing in the book -- maybe changing something in it? -- but decides not to.
You Hamleteers note that the giant chief does not give the wizard any gold tonight. If you make a Sense Motive check vs DC 20, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {Maybe he does not care about the outcome with the mind reader.}
In the Tapestry
The Story unfolds with the Mind Reader confusing our heroes. The brave Jerome is befuddled. Shandy starts to wander off. The Princess closes her eyes. But the Old Man starts to walk in circles. He circles the Mind Reader. Round and round he goes -- and his mind is as confused as his gait.
The Mind Reader, focusing on the Old Man, turns around and around, too. He says, "Your thoughts! So strange! So twisted. so mad ... "
The Mind Reader falls in a heap. The other three snap out of the trance, and quickle head on their way.
But within a short while, the breezes pick up, and the trees begin to sway back and forth. One great gust brows down a tree in your path. You see the Wind Mage standing before you. "I do not want to kill you, but you must turn back or face the wrath of the winds!"
What do you do?
[OOC: Shawn, did you get my e-mail? Please let me know.]
Sarigar and Black Paws Sunday January 2nd, 2005 4:47:05 PM
The brothers mainly just mill about during the night.
If allowed, they go outside the gates so they don't feel so cooped up. If not, they run about the compound as much as possible to keep active as the events in the "Magic Wall Blanket" and the political intrigue mean next to nothing to them. Sitting around is making them more than a little stir crazy.
Renik Sunday January 2nd, 2005 7:20:28 PM
The rogue speaks to Sarigar again. "Please, Sarigar, do as I bid you. We will need a route out of here, and you are best equiped to give us the information we require."
(OOC: Read your companions' posts, dude!)
Draax d20-1=6 d20+5=17 Monday January 3rd, 2005 1:01:50 AM
At Renik's suggestion, Draax decides to spend more time in the company of the giants. Listening, talking, and joking along with them. He even laughs at jokes directed at him. He has never been good at gathering information, but does the best he can (gather info 6).
Draax also watches for giants that gives the other giants hostile looks because he knows that the best way to find out how someone feels about another is to observe what looks they give the other when they think the other is not looking (spot check 17).
Tratain Monday January 3rd, 2005 10:26:41 AM
Tratain says to Renik "The only Options I see as far as rescuing Ivy go are to either wait until the events in the tapestry have concluded and use magic to transport just her away with us, between Arien and I I'm sure that we can transport all of us and Her to safety. The next Option is to bet the Giant King for the lives of the slaves, he may or may not be willing to do that. The Last option is to try to get teh younger giant to try and taek power and either escape with the slaves in the confusion, or hope he will give them to us."
Rond/Shandy Monday January 3rd, 2005 12:18:58 PM
(I'm back, and trying to catch up. I'm not aware that I got your e-mail.)
Seeing the Wind mage and his obvious control of said wind. Shandy looks around for a tunnel or some other form that would defeat a windy attack.
Arien Monday January 3rd, 2005 3:15:38 PM
Arien pulls Renik off to the side after he is done observing the mage. "I have an idea. It looks like the story is started by reading out of the book and possibly changed by writing in it. We could wait until before the final challenge and incapacitate the drow, then I can cast Veil and disguise one of us as the drow. The disguised person would come in and act like the drow of course. Since Storm will be the final challenge more than likely the king will try to change something. The person disguised as the drow can prevent Storm from getting an advantage, letting Feng succeed and of course, winning our bet. With the story over I imagine that everyone will pop out and we can grab the musician and take our leave."
Feng/ Jerome Monday January 3rd, 2005 4:59:21 PM
Jerome's eyes blink open and he spends several minutes clearing his head. Unbelievably the mentalist was down and another foe was right there to take his place. Would they not get a moments rest? Jerome draws his sword and begins circling the wind mage forcing him to keep turning or provide him with an opening.
Plans are Begun (Sixth Day) (DM Cayzle) Monday January 3rd, 2005 7:19:16 PM
In Bone Castle
Or actually, *around* Bone Castle! Sarigar and Black Paws race around the grounds, letting off steam. They seem too nervous to pay attention to Renik, but maybe tomorrow they'll be able to concentrate better on their "leader"!
Draax spends some time with the giants. They seem mostly bored and full of nervous energy, like Sarigar. But instead of running around, they tend to hit each other and get into wrestling matches. There are a few laughs at his jokes, but he is not sure if they get the jokes or are laughing at him. He does realize that there are two factions, and one is led by the younger prince, Hadram, and his four cronies. The two factions keep an eye on each other.
Tratain and Renik find a private place and make their plans. A number of good ideas are bandied about. Arien joins then and offers a few more very interesting ideas.
In the Tapestry
Jerome steps forward bravely, holding his shield and sword ready. The Princess gasps, and the Old Man stares. The Wind Mage gestures, and a wind jabs at Jerome! He parries with his shield and slices with sword, but the mage pushes him back! The mage is respectful of the hero's weapon, but seems able to hold him back.
Trusty Shandy, however, uses his keen eyes to look around. He sees that the wind tears at the trees and bushes all around. But the wind cannot penetrate the thicket behind the Wind Mage! If it were possible to push the magician into the thicket, maybe his winds would not be able to save him? But how to get him there?
Draax Tuesday January 4th, 2005 2:50:33 AM
Draax reports back to Renik, "I did not find out anything that we did not already know, but I was able to identify a few giants from each faction. A couple of he-said-she-said might get a few fights started."
Draax continues to spend time with the giants and will try to instigate a conflict whenever members of the two factions use each other to get rid of some nervous energy. He will add comments like 'Wow! I bet he felt that one,' or 'He hit him like he was a woman.'
Renik d20+19=29 d20+21=30 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 6:52:16 AM
The rogue nods to Draax. "Do what you can. Also it might be worth seeing if there is any schism between the different races. The rock troll we met seemed to suggest there was friction, so perhaps we can exploit that."
To Arien he says, "I like the plan. I was thinking along those lines too. I have only one reservation that we need to overcome. How can we take out the mage without raising the alarm? We will need to catch him away from his bodyguards, and take him down instantly. Do you have any thoughts on how we might achieve that?"
Renik will observe the mage for a time, checking to see if he is vulnerable at any point. (As many uses of invisibility wand as required, Move Silent and Hide 29, 30 if required).
To Tratain he says, "Hmm, I'm pretty sure none of those options are going to be easy. We could come up with some fabrication that plays off the betting angle though. I think all of the slaves is too great a bet, they would never honour it. But if we made a bet where we get any one slave of our choice if we win, we could wander the slave camp and select Ivy seemingly at random. Pretend that one of of us takes a shine to her, or that we want someone to act as a slave who will be easy to control, and who can cook our meals. That might work. I'm sure I can feed them a line of blarney they'll swallow. Of course we still have the other slaves to worry about, but I think we will have to deal with that problem later. What do you think? And do we have any more cash with which to place a bet? I still have 225 gold of group funds, it's not much but it might be enough."
old man Tuesday January 4th, 2005 7:19:32 AM
Success!
The old man stares in surprise.
What to do now he wonders.
Shawn Tuesday January 4th, 2005 7:21:41 AM
I have very limited access to the net right now. My room mate is on twenty four seven and it is their connection. I'll check my e-mails from the library tomorrow.
Rond/Shandy Tuesday January 4th, 2005 9:44:18 AM
Knowing that his trusty knight is not without cause. Shandy pipes up , "Sir Knight, please charge with all your might. Yon thicket is where you could end the fight."
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+14=21 d20+14=28 d20+1=17 Tuesday January 4th, 2005 11:09:19 AM
Having had time to work off some of their nervous energy, the brothers take on Renik's task of trying to find either a subtle or overt way out of the castle. Still feeling trapped within the bleak stone walls, any chance they get to get outside is more than welcome to them however.
They watch the patrols (Spot 21) for possible breaks in the pattern that might allow them to slip out undetected. They scour the inner walls for any kind of exit, be it an actual hole or as mundane as sewer drain (Spot 28). They prefer the idea of a stealthy route, but their anxiety is drifting them more to the "path of violence" in getting out of here when the time comes.
Not one for numbers beyond 1, 2 and "more than us", counting the prisoners and the races of each is a bit of a daunting task, but they do what they can (Int check 17 to keep such information square in his head).
Feng/ Jerome Tuesday January 4th, 2005 12:21:06 PM
Ah trusty Shandy Jerome thought with a smile on his face. He was hoping Shandy would come up with something to aid him. Fighting the winds Jerome holds his ground and wiats for the lull in the gust. Even the strongest winds cannot blow forever. Jerome holds and waits, fighting the wind that was pushing him back little by little. As the winds died Jerome acted. The pause could be for a minute or a moment and Jerome had no idea but he could not wait any longer. His mighty arm pulled back and then forward with all his strength. His blade hurled end over end toward the wind mage. Jerome took a few steps to his left and charged, shield in front. There was no way he could just push the mage back. He needed to keep the winds off of him. If he caught the wind mage off guard then hopefully he would panic. Either the sword would end him or it would give him the time he needed to entrap the wind mage.
Tratain Tuesday January 4th, 2005 11:27:09 PM
Tratain says to Renik, "I have 1000 gold we can use if we want to try the betting angle. Also some items if we need more. Let me know if you want it."
Winds in Thickets (Sixth Day, Evening) (DM Cayzle) Wednesday January 5th, 2005 12:20:17 AM
In Bone Castle
Through dint of careful observation, Renik discovers that the drow mage takes an afternoon meditation alone each day in his house. At all other times, a drow follower is nearby.
Draax starts a fight easily, but it goes no further than fisticuffs. Getting these to draw each other's blood would take a more clever approach.
Sarigar thinks he could guide the group out safely and quietly if there is no hue and cry. Under pursuit, maybe.
Tratain considers how best to use some gold.
In the Tapestry
Guided by Shandy, Jerome forces the Wind Mage back back into the thickets, where his winds are broken by the branches and thorns.
Then Jerome makes great swings, and he cuts through the mage's broken defenses. Soon the mage is dead.
The group pauses and then moves on.
In the distance, up ahead, you hear wolves.
Arien Wednesday January 5th, 2005 3:59:04 AM
"Hmm the real question is if we want to kill the drow or to just incapacitate him. I could probably take him out quickly if I caught him unprepared. Perhaps I could dimension door us into his room and several of us could take him." Arien pauses a moment before adding, "I know that attacking him like that wouldn't be the most honorable of deeds and that Feng would object but well, sometimes there are just things you have to do whether you like it or not. Anyway I say we kill him, I can teleport out with the body after casting veil on whomever wants to take the drow's place then come back after hiding the body."
Sarigar and Black Paws Wednesday January 5th, 2005 12:35:36 PM
After scouting a potential escape route, the brothers key Renik in on it privately. Afterwards, they take to being as free as they can make themselves in this dismal place. Surrounded by stone walls and watched by members of a race that hunted his pack for sport does not sit easy with them.
More than once they've thought about just leaving, but abandoning their new pack just won't happen. Attempting to kill a giant or two has also crossed their mind, but seeing as that would be tantamount ot suicide, it's dismissed as well. So, they content themselves as best as possible by moving about the compound as freely as they are able so help alleviate their feelings of being trapped.
Old man Wednesday January 5th, 2005 3:36:05 PM
A light shines in the old man's eyes.
His hairy beard twitches as the old man exposes the few teeth left in his wrinkled old mouth.
Grrrr...
Rond/Shandy Wednesday January 5th, 2005 3:47:18 PM
"Job well done Sir Knight. Let us see if the Wind Mage has a Magic Lamp, or Genie that we might be able to use."
Shady does his best to look around the area for any tools that they can use. Including any hints as a way to proceed from where they are.
Feng/ Jerome Wednesday January 5th, 2005 5:08:32 PM
"Great now what?" Jerome says almost dejectedly. "Can the King turn the very animals against us? How is everybody doing? Still holding up I hope." Jerome draws his sword and takes the lead hoping to draw the wolves to him.
Renik Wednesday January 5th, 2005 5:44:12 PM
To Arien Renik says, "How can we ensure that the mage has no chance to call for help? Once the alarm is raised the game is up. Might Silence work? Once the deed were done I'd say you would be the best choice to take the mage's place. In the meantime I recommend that you continue your surveillance of the mage, and learn as much as you can about the workings of his book."
He says to Tratain, "Why not suggest a 500GP bet against a slave to the Giant king tonight?"
He thanks Sarigar for his findings, and smiles as the wild man heads away for more open spaces.
After that his attention returns once more to the events within the tapestry.
Fights With Wolves (Seventh Day) (DM Cayzle) Thursday January 6th, 2005 12:58:09 AM
In Bone Castle
During the day, the Hamleteers think about how to quickly surprise and defeat the Drow mage. He seems powerful -- more powerful than any one of you, most likely -- so whatever tactic is used had better work immediately!
The plan to impersonate him with the Veil spell may work -- so long as there's no need to speak Undercommon!
Sarigar struggles with the constraints of this place, but it does seem to him that he is not the only one who would like to fight a gaint. Not only do the giants wrestle and bash each other, but the derro (the dwarf-like folk) seem ready to fight someone too. Especially after the Wind Mage is killed -- see below.
In the Tapestry
As the Wind Mage dies, he fades out of the Tapestry. He reappears in Bone Castle, grieviously wounded.
The heroes move on the path, and are faced by Calimenes, the Animal Friend, and his pack of wolves -- the suitor orders the wolves to attack!
Shandy notices that one of the wolves, in the lead, is bigger. Jerome is ready to fight, but that sword won't save them alone. The old man seems disturbed. What will they do?
Betting is heavy against our heroes!
Arien Thursday January 6th, 2005 2:12:47 AM
"If you want I will, though I am loathe to assume the countenance of a drow. Another idea as well. We can all see that moods are on edge here. Perhaps a dead giant or derro can cause tempers to flare past where it has gone so far. Or perhaps we could just kill the drow and plant some evidence that it was done by one of the groups on his body to cause more tension. I would suggest the derro since their contender just lost and they seem angry about that."
Draax Thursday January 6th, 2005 2:19:11 AM
Draax listens to the suggestions and cannot come up with any alternative ideas. He does give his opinion about attacking the drow. "Before we attack the drow we will have to make sure that his two companions are occupied and that the three of them do not have any way to communicate with each other. I have heard that drow can communicate with their hands, but I have not noticed anything during my short experience with them. And if they do have some secret hand language at least they will have to see each other to communicate."
Draax continues to spend time with the giant and inquires about if the giants will let him go on patrol with them.
Rond/Shandy d20+11=19 d20+8=23 Thursday January 6th, 2005 3:16:37 AM
Having learned a little bit about the wolf, and this being a some kind of fantasy magic. Rond/Shandy says to the biggest of the wolves, "Master Wolf. This woman has chosen this Knight to be her protector. He has not done anything to endanger your pack. Your friend Calimenes desires this woman. Let him challenge this Knight in one on one combat. For I fear much of your pack would be killed or injured." (Handle animal 19 Knowledge (Nature) 23) (ooc source book not easily avail. I rolled those two rolls because they suggested themselves to me. The speech is what I chose to write for the PG version of things. What I believe I would have said would have been something more along the lines of getting the two leaders to square off against each other, rather than endanger the pack.)
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday January 6th, 2005 12:18:23 PM
The brothers continue to regain what freedom they can from this place while awake, and take frequent naps so as to stay fresh most of the time.
Renik Thursday January 6th, 2005 2:30:14 PM
While the party plot to take out the drow mage, the rogue keeps a good eye on events around him. He tries to get an idea of how tough the Drow bodyguards might be.
He suggests to Draax that Sarigar and they might be able to work to cause some disruption between the derro and giants.
"Arien is right; murder with signs that the other faction was involved might work to our advantage. We even might combine it with our escape plan; if we could kill the mage, win the tapestry game, then return to the mage's quarters with the tapestry and escape, we might cover our trail by pinning the blame on the derro. Leave one dead at the mage's home, perhaps, or leave a sign that they had been there. With luck the factions will turn upon each other."
Renik keeps an eye out for something uniquely derro he might steal, which could concievably be dropped at the site of a conflict. A knife, perhaps, or cloak and clasp.
Feng/ Jerome Thursday January 6th, 2005 5:25:55 PM
Jerome holds his sword tightly and watches the wolves around them. There were many of them and he didn't think that he could take them all. Best case scenario is that some of them live. Hopefully the pack leader would listen to Shandy.
Tratain Friday January 7th, 2005 10:48:27 AM
Tratain takes Renik's advice and approaches the Giant King. He says, "I would like to make a wager, Sir King: 500 Gold against one of your slaves of My choosing that Feng Triumphs."
Stalemated By Wolves (Seventh Day, evening) (DM Cayzle) Friday January 7th, 2005 9:02:13 PM
At Bone Castle
Arien, Draax, and Renik agree that framing the Derro would be a great way to add chaos to the endgame.
Renik remembers that the Derro are merchants with magic potions to sell. Maybe one of those would serve. If he can make an Int check or Gather Info check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {The Derro also had a few vials of distinctive poison among their wares.}
Renik notes that the drow followers are always armored and seem ready for a fight.
At the feast, Draax asks about going on a patrol, and the young prince is glad to have him aboard! "I know where some wild bears are nesting. Maybe you could fight one for us!" The other giants laugh and agree that a little fellow fighting a bear would be funny.
The Derro are surly and wild, and their leader lays at death's door. Some magic is on him, and despite curing potions, lays asleep. The Drow mage suggests that he will awake when the Tapestry story is done.
Tratain makes a side bet with the king, who seems willing, but wants to know which slave and why. "Have your eye on one? A female, I bet!"
In the Tapestry
The Alpha Wolf listens to Shandy, head cocked. He barks once in assent, and the rest of the pack circles around.
The huge wolf lunges for Jerome. Jerome parries and strikes out, but misses. So it goes ... lunge, parry, counter.
But the two fighters are evenly matched. The animal mage shouts his wolf on. The princess calls her encouragement to Jerome. But the fight is deadlocked.
The evening's Tapestry entertainment ends unresolved. What will break the stalemate?
Renik d20+2=3 d20+5=15 d20+21=31 d20+19=28 d20+21=23 d20+19=35 d20+5=22 Sunday January 9th, 2005 6:14:08 PM
Though it does not occur to him at once, some careful eavesdropping reminds Renik that the Derro carry distinctive poisons that may suit their purposes perfectly. (Gather Info 15)
He suggests to his companions that they leave a poison vial badly hidden in the mage's quarters, along with a spilled drink beside his body. This should point the finger of suspicion without having to get entangled in a second killing.
Renik does his best to steal one of the poison vials, using all his stealth and guile (Hide 31, Move Silent 28, will use invisibility, flight and blinking if required) to assist him in his theft.
Afterwards he says to his companions "Could somebody join me in observing the lizard folk? We need to see if there is any obvious rivalry between them and another group here. We lack the strength to take this fort down, but if we can get the factions here to turn on one another we may free those slaves yet."
Renik will use invisibility to eavesdrop the lizardfolk, chat with both the lizardfolk and the other groups about them (entirely innocently of course), in an attempt to determine what they want, who they hate, who hates them and so on (Hide 23, Move Silent 35, Gather Info 22).
The beginnings of a truly devious plan are beginning to take form in the rogue's head. A great deal will fall to chance, but it is just possible, if events play out favourably, that they can make it seem as if the king's son has allied himself with the derro in an attempt to seize control of the fort and the tapestry. If they can somehow involve the lizardfolk in the intrigue, make it seem as if they too seek to steal the tapestry, and so set each faction at the others' throats...
He continues to plot and scheme, fully aware that all these machinations may be for naught if any random factor throws them even slightly off course.
Draax Sunday January 9th, 2005 9:55:57 PM
Draax laughs along with the giants, "No I like to eat bear, not have the bear eat me. I am one of those small weak people who like to shoot at things with my little bow. Now if you find a little rabbit or chipmunk for me to fight that would be wonderful" he says while laughing.
Draax agrees with the plan to put the blame on the derro. If he is allowed to go on the patrol with the prince he will make a comment about the derro really being upset with his father about what is happening with the tapestry.
Feng/ Jerome Monday January 10th, 2005 2:15:19 AM
He was caught offguard by the initial assault by the large wolf. He should have known the mage would have chosen the wolf as his champion. Jerome spent several long minutes baiting the wolf, testing his speed and intuition. While the wolf easily avoided his blade it didn't seem so concerned with his shield. So the next time, and each time after, the wolf lunged Jerome bashed the wolf in the face with his shield before swiping with his sword.
Tratain Monday January 10th, 2005 11:34:58 AM
Tratain says to the King "Aye, but not for the reasons your thinking. My Comrade Feng made a promise to a Halfling Lad that we would try to find his lady who was lost in these mountains a while ago. I think ive found her among your slaves so I will help him keep his word."
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+30=47 d20+25=36 d20+30=50 d20+25=28 Monday January 10th, 2005 12:58:23 PM
The brothers watch over the other "guests" from a distance and as out of sight as they can (Hide 47, Move Silent 36). They watch them with the eyes of a hunter, looking for the weakest link that they might be able to exploit when the time comes.
When it is not possible for them to watch over the "guests" they will watch over the slaves (Hide 50, Move Silent 28). , keying in on which are the strongest. If it comes down to it, the slaves may have to fight for their freedom, and the brothers want to know who will be of the most help.
Rond/Shady Monday January 10th, 2005 6:30:33 PM
So as to relieve suspicion on his own part, Shady moves over to protect the Princess. He continues to look alert, to see if he can figure out anything to help the Knight.
Fencing Continues (Eighth Day) (DM Cayzle) d100=86 d100=42 d100=40 d20+10=21 Tuesday January 11th, 2005 12:05:45 AM
In Bone Castle
Renik can't help but think that if he had only studied pick-pocketing in rogue school, he would have a much better chance to slip a vial of poison in his pocket. As it is, he has to hang out and wait for a moment when a derro sets down a vial and leaves it unattended. Renik waits for such an opportunity ... and waits ... and waits ... but the derro never quite give him the opportunity. Maybe tomorrow Renik's luck will change, if he tries again. He is lucky, though, in that he escapes detection.
Undaunted by this setback, Renik tries to learn more about the snake people. He talks with a female, Ssakkar-rie. The snake folk have been guests of the giants the longest. Ssakkar-rie says the group is an emissary from a remote citadel of snake people deep in the Scab sent to bring back news of the outside world. The female seems a little nervous.
If Renik can make a Sense Motive check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {She seems to have a secret.}
If Renik can make a Diplomacy check vs DC15, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {She tells Renik that she wants to steal the Tapestry, and wants to know if he and his group will help. If so, what would he want in return?}
Drax goes on a patrol with the young Prince, and attempts to sow a few seeds of discontent -- please make a Bluff Check or a Diplomacy Check, whichever is better.
The giant chief laughs at Tratains motives, but is satisfied by the wager. "I'll take that bet, then! It will be a pleasure to take your gold!"
Sarigar identifies a few of the slaves as the best fighters -- these seem to be the ones that the giants have set as overseers -- a couple gnolls, a half-orc, a couple humans.
Sarigar determines that the predawn and dawn hours are when the fewest guests and giants are about. Most folk sleep in after the night's revelries.
In the Tapestry
The princess screams as the huge wolf lunges at Jerome. "Oh, Noble Knight! Protect us!"
By now both Jerome and the Wolf are bloodied, but still not weary. They circle each other and look for openings. They seem evenly matched -- Jerome will have to get help or figure out a way to break the stalemate soon!
Shandy notes that the old man seems transfixed and silent! The loyal squire also sees that the Animal Mage is concentrating very fiercely and intently on the fight.
Arien Tuesday January 11th, 2005 1:21:21 AM
During the day Arien strolls by the mage's house as casually as he can he stops a moment as if to inspect something interesting on the ground, crouching down he casts detect magic and concentrates on the mage's house. Once Arien is satisfied that he's seen all he could he kicks the dirt about a moment then continues he stroll until he finds Renik and lets him know what he found.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+15=35 d20+14=28 d20+29=48 d20+25=43 Tuesday January 11th, 2005 10:46:56 AM
Satisfied with his assessment of his prey (guests) and potential temporary packmates (slaves), he focuses his attention on the guards of this place (giants).
Stalking his prey (Hide 49, Move Silently 43), he looks for the strongest and weakest among them (Spot 35 (nat 20), Listen 28) and if each type seems to be concentrated in any particular area of the compound.
ooc: The Spot check is for the obvious visible problems likes wounds, limps, etc. The Listen check is for hearing those subtle groans or joint pops that might indicate a cronic condition that might be exploited. And oops on the Hide roll, hit +29 instead of +30 by mistake (adjusted in my text).
Renik makes friendly conversation with Ssakkar-rie, but although he gets the feeling she is hiding something he is unable to put her sufficiently at ease to learn what it might be.
He suggests they join the next hunting party together, hoping he will get further opportunity to uncover any secrets.
Renik resolves to be patient, and continues to wait for the perfect opportunity to swipe a vial of poison (Hide 36, Move Silent 31, Sleight of Hand 25 if pickpocketing skills are the only way he can succeed).
Draax d20-1=10 Tuesday January 11th, 2005 11:30:18 PM
While on patrol Draax says to the prince in a nonchalant manner, "It's a pretty diverse group of races you host in the keep. I am really enjoying the show at night, especially watching how upset the derro seem to be getting. I think the fact that you giants could crush the rest of us anytime you wanted is the only thing that is keeping the peace." (Diplomacy check 10).
Draax figured even if the prince does nothing he will at least start noticing the derro's behavior.
Friends, like Jerry said, the game cannot continue with such poor posting. Only four people posted today. Look, I'm sorry if I am not running as engaging a module as you might like, but I have thought about it and hope that the next one will be more action oriented. But there may not be a next one if Jerry makes the game inactive because the players don't care enough to post. After all the Windhorn Hamleteers have been through over the years, it seems a shame to me to give it up now!
In Bone Castle
Renik bides his time and -- at last -- the moment arrives! He is able to palm a vial of poison, and he thinks he was unobserved, too.
Arien detects magic in the house, for sure. If he can make a spellcraft check vs DC16, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {He has the definate idea that there is some abjuration magic in place in the drow's house -- a protection of some sort.} If Arien can make a spellcraft check vs DC21, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {He thinks it is an Alarm of some kind, either the spell or an item or trap that uses Alarm as a trigger.}
Sarigar's efforts bear fruit. He learns that there are 20 fighting giants in the castle. More (females, kids) stay out of sight. The young prince's faction has a total of five to seven giants. None of the giants seem to have any spell casting abilities.
The Giant Prince, Hadram, is receptive to Drax. "The time is coming when I will need friends to fight on my side. Will the Derro join me in their anger at my father? Will you and your friends fight with me?"
In the Tapestry
Our heroes are unable to counter the wolves. They stand about fecklessly, and disaster befalls. The Alpha Wolf trips Jerome, and he falls. Immediately the Wolf is at his throat, ready to make a kill. But he does not do so -- the beast awaits the order from his friend.
The Animal Friend instead walks forward. "Surrender now, Knight, and come with me to beg the mercy of the King!"
"Oh!" shouts the Princess.
Tratain Wednesday January 12th, 2005 1:41:42 AM
Tratain Watches the Tapestry, trying to figure out how Feng will get out of this mess.
Arien d20+22=37 d20+22=31 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 3:49:25 AM
Arien tells Renik that there is some sort of alarm type spell within the mage's residence that would trigger a trap of some sort. Arien theorizes that if could be on the book used for the tapestry or perhaps its container.
When watching the tapestry Arien wonders if they won't have to accelerate their plans to keep Feng alive.
(Spellcraft: 37 and 31 accordingly)
Renik Wednesday January 12th, 2005 6:11:09 AM
"Arien, are you aware of any way for me to bypass the alarm, other than by being very, very careful? Do you know if a Non-Detection potion will prevent it from registering my presence?" asks the rogue.
He informs the others that he has succeeded in stealing the poison, but wonders if the warriors in the Tapestry are going to be able to keep going. They seem precariously close to failure.
(OOC: Come on, Tapestry guys, use some lateral thinking. Think outside the box! Bashing these wolves won't work, and doing nothing won't work either. There are 3 of you in there, any one of you can get us past this hurdle. It's a fairy tale, think what happens in fairy tales and make it happen. This part is not D&D, remember, but freeform invention. Use your imaginations, the success of the team's mission rests on you!)
Feng/ Jerome Wednesday January 12th, 2005 9:38:17 AM
"I'll never surrender." Jerome says with conviction. Surrendering would be giving up and that he won't do. Normally he would offer prayers to the gods at this moment but there were no gods here. So Jerome prayed to the next thing he could think of...the land itself. He prayed silently to the land, to protect the pricess, all that was good and right in this land. He asked the Forest to rise up and scatter the wolves so they may continue on their journey.
OOC: I would have went after the mage but Jerome wasn't aware of the link between the Mage's concentration and the wolves strength. While I know of fairy tales Feng would know very little. I'm thinking from his perspective.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+30=33 d20+25=29 d20+15=27 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 11:22:55 AM
Satisfied with their assessments of the various strengths and weaknesses of the various beings here, they start to focus on the strengths and weaknesses of the compound itself. Particularly on the patrol routes of the giants, such as the walkways on the walls (Hide 33, Move Silently 29, Spot 27, No knowledge of architecture or stonework unfortunately but they can look to see if anything is loose when the giants step on it).
If there seem to be any loose patches that he might help become looser so that a giant takes a tumble, they'll keep that in mind. His thinking is if he can indirectly wound a giant, he'll make it a weak point in the defenses should such a thing be needed. This is not unlike a pack of wolves making prey run until it's too tired to defend itself, allowing the pack to move in for the kill.
Rond/Shady Wednesday January 12th, 2005 12:20:08 PM
(ooc Tues evenings are not my good time to post for an evening post. I have rehearsals, and then I'm usually really tired late into the night. I was going to have Rond slap the mage and try to distract him, but I didn't get a chance to post)
Having missed his chance to catch the Animal Friend in the act. Shady says, "Foul, I cry Foul. It was an uneven match, due to some trickery. Were you a true friend to these wolves, you would have let him stand on his own, or even done the deed on your own, as any true leader would."
Draax d20=11 Wednesday January 12th, 2005 9:21:04 PM
Draax rubs his chin as if he was in deep thought, "Hmm, I do not know about the Derro, I am sure they would join you with the right incentive. I am pretty sure that me and my friends would join you, but I will have to confirm that with our leader. We definitely will not side with your father, but before we would take arms against him we will need to know what is in it for us."
Draax looks at the prince trying to read his true intentions. He thinks to himself that the release of most if not all of the slaves would be a good thing to bargain for, but could they trust the prince (Sense motive 11).
When he is back with the others the half-elven warrior tell them of the prince's proposal.
"If we do decide to do more that just start them fighting and secretly finish our mission during the chaos. We might be able to bargain with the prince for the prisoners. I do not know if we can trust him, but even if we cannot, most of the giants will be dead or wounded and I would rather take on the survivors to free the slaves instead of the whole keep."
A Noble Appeal (Ninth Day) (DM Cayzle) Wednesday January 12th, 2005 11:18:04 PM
In Bone Castle
Arien suspects that the Alarm is set to go off if a guarded object is moved, perhaps, or if a tiny or bigger creature enters an area without speaking the password. He thinks that the Alarm would not be fooled by illusion or invisibility or nondetection, but it would be fooled by being ethereal or smaller than Tiny. A rogue with an excellent Disable Device might be able to disarm it.
Renik plots and watches the Tapestry intently.
Sarigar looks for a weak point in the fort's architecture, but does not see anything notable. The construction is crude, though, and would be fairly easy to scale.
Draax senses that the young prince can be trusted so long as the prince feels he is getting the good end of the bargain. The giant chief's son tells Draax that he could have his pick of a dozen slaves and 5,000 gold for his help.
In The Tapestry
The suitor laughs at Shandy. "I would put aside my friends when your hero puts aside his arms and armor! I have won!"
As he gloats, Jerome offers a prayer. But not just any prayer. He does not pray for himself, or for his own victory. He prays for the Princess, and for what's right and good! His noble prayer is not unanswered.
Jerome feels great strength and vigor -- righteousness -- fill his being. He leaps up and lays into the wolves! The beasts attack! But whenever they leap at Shady, the Princess, or the Old Man, Jerome is there to protect them. They bite at him, they nip and tear! But in his desire to do the right thing, Jerome feels none of it!
After a short time, the wolves are defeated, dead, or scattered. The Animal Friend flees. But at last, Jerome also drops to his knees. He is bloody and victorious, but badly wounded.
Tratain Thursday January 13th, 2005 12:48:52 AM
Tratain continues to watch the tapestry and listening to what the other say. He agrees with Arien, they may need to speed the plan up in order to rescue those inside.
He says to Renik "Do you think the mage would let another person enter? Or if we get rid of him we can send in another to aid Feng and Rond. We would have to write them in in an apropriate part, maybe a wandering healer or some such."
Arien Thursday January 13th, 2005 3:21:42 AM
"Its difficult to say for sure, remember that he knew when you entered his room the last time so I have a feeling its keyed to go off as a mental alarm when anyone goes into his room. If we were able to go ethereal for a time we should be able to get in the room without it going off, we could then phase back in and attack."
When watching the tapestry Arien breathes a silent sigh of relief when Feng battles off the wolves and their master.
Feng/ Jerome Thursday January 13th, 2005 9:38:02 AM
Small rivers of blood run over the ground, staining the green grass red. His breaths were deep and labored though Jerome was just glad to be taking them. He reached down to pick up his sword but his fingers couldn't quite close around the hilt. Several minutes later Jerome lifted the sword, slowly sheathing it.
"We.... we ah.... need to be going now." Jerome says weakly and with much effort.
Renik d20+3=18 d20+3=19 d20+5=14 d20+3=5 d20+3=16 d20+5=14 Thursday January 13th, 2005 9:46:38 AM
The rogue applauds Feng's triumph over the beast master, but is concerned at his injuries. "Is there anything we can do to cure him?" he asks the mage. "My friend suggested a wandering healer. Would that be allowed?
Talking to Draax later Renik says "It sounds as if he is seriously considering a coup. This could certainly play to our advantage. Let us remain neutral for now, but in the meantime let me discuss matters with the Derro. If we can act to create alliances without becoming directly involved ourselves we will be in a better position to play sides off each other when the time comes.
He also speaks to Arien. "I am not that skilled in disabling magical traps. Would you be able to make me ethereal? And if you could would I be able to end the effect myself, or would you need to do it? Could you end the effect from a distance, if I requested it telepathically?"
He attempts to speak with the dwarves and learn more about their motivations. Then, if he feels it safe, he very gently probes them to see how they might lean were a power shakeup to occur, and how much that leaning might cost. He will be very careful not to overstep the bounds (Sense Motive 18, Diplomacy 19, Gather Info 14).
Then he goes back to Ssakkar-rie and asks her again if she will join him on a hunt. Either way he will continue to try to draw her out (Sense Motive 5, Diplomacy 16, Gather info 14).
Sarigar and Black Paws Thursday January 13th, 2005 12:52:02 PM
With not much more they can do, the brothers again look for ways to regain their "freedom". They've been in this place too long and it's beginning to take a toll on their spirits.
It's becomming obvious that a state of depression is starting to overcome them. Their shoulder's and haunches are rounded and sloped, their heads are hanging lower with each passing day.
Draax Thursday January 13th, 2005 9:46:03 PM
Draax agrees with Renik about staying neutral for the time being. "I agree we should let them fight it out while we do our own thing, but his offer of the slaves have me wanting to give him a hand or at least make him think that we are helping him. Once this mission is done I think that most of us planned to find someway to free the slaves and this could be a head start. I will ask him as a couple of questions to avoid giving him a definite answer and to see what his plans are for the drow and the tapestry."
When he gets a chance to talk to the prince Draax says, "My leader finds your offer generous, but there are a few things that he would like to know. The drow is a pretty good wizard if what my comrades say is true. What are your plans for him, his bodyguards and the tapestry?"
Storm On The Horizon (Ninth Day, Evening) (DM Cayzle) Friday January 14th, 2005 12:39:15 AM In Bone Castle
During the day, Renik sounds out the snake-woman who heads the group of reptilians. She reveals that she wants the Tapestry for herself, and wants the group's aid in getting it. What would Renik want in return?
The drow mage, Caunas Methar, says that the game is almost over, and Tratain can enter the next game if he wants. Not this one.
Arien thinks about it, and considers that a well-place successful Dispel Magic might deactivate the alarm as well.
Talking with Draax, the young giant prince expresses his scorn of the drow mage. "He is a cowardly entertainer. In a fight he would run away. I need warriors at my side, like you! The Drow can buy his freedom afterward, I think."
Sarigar, even through his melancholy, smells tension and violence in the air. He notes more fist fights between giants.
That evening, the feasting and excitement around the Tapestry is higher than ever.
In the Tapestry
Supported by loyal Shandy, Jerome limps on towards the border out of the kingdom, followed by the princess and the old man. The princess helps from time to time, and her tears are as great a balm to Jerome as her touches.
But before too long, there is no mistaking the hulk in the trail ahead. It is Storm, the best fighter in the land. And Jerome is still very wounded! The Tapestry closes for the night with the outcome unresolved.
Betting is very high against the heroes.
[OOC: Spellcasters, please post your prepared spells before Day Ten begins.]
LOG ON