The Big Dream [CDM Jerry] Saturday March 19th, 2005 11:02:02 AM
The Windhorn Heroes settle in for a long deserved good night's sleep. All is cozy and warm.
Without warning, Draax and Arien jerk upright looking at each other in surprise. Both begin to glow. The room lights up with their light. The room begins to hum and then sings with anticipation as the elf and the half-elf rise into the air and slowly begin to rotate around each other.
[The portion that follows is a spoiler. It is to be read only by those with elven blood.]
Highlight to display spoiler: {Some sort of collective elven effect is at work!
As the elves in the group struggle to come to grips with these events, their conscious minds fade and a waking dreamlike state begins.
There is then a joining of minds. Elven minds. Minds that look at life in terms of centuries instead of years.
Nearby elves join in the union. Then more distant elves join in. Some join to a lesser extent being half-elves or other relates species.
The pool of collective thought grows until it becomes Woldwide!
The overwhelming thought becomes "Why?"
An ancient being joining the mix replies, "This has happened twice before. This is the third time."
"What has happened before?" comes the overwhelming collective response.
"This. Prepare and listen."
A common Elven Dream begins.
---------
You are floating... in space..?
You can see The Wold turning lazily beneath you, so very far below--slow but steady, the planet rotates, basking blissfully in the light of the bright golden disk hanging above it. Sunlight dapples the large fertile brown expanses of land dotted with areas of green forest... it sparkles across the waves of the blue-green ocean.
The Wold is as it is.
Suddenly you become aware that there are three smaller discs approaching the bright one, also at a slow but steady pace... you realize that the bright disk must be the sun, and the others are the moons of The Wold.
The three new discs align to cover the sun completely, leaving it and The Wold in darkness. But there--right in the middle of the now-black sun-disk--a pair of eyes blink open, as though awakened from sleep.
The almond-shaped eyes--the bright, brilliant hue of sky and sea--look down upon The Wold. They widen in surprise, as though viewing the burgeoning world for the first time in a very, very long time... then the expression in the turquoise eyes grows rather sad. A tear forms and falls from one of the eyes as it blinks.
The eyes in the black sun narrow slightly--as though the unseen person to whom they belong has suddenly begun contemplating... and then the eyes blink again, once more brightening with the enlightenment of a great idea..!
The eyes glow warmly--if there were a face to go with them, you just know that it would have a happy, friendly grin in place--and The Wold, turning in its slow, steady pace, begins to grow green. Focusing on the planet, you can see that the forests of The Wold flourish and grow lush once more, spreading their fertile growth across the faces of the both the continent of Yrth and the Fragmented Lands, as the owner of the eyes laughs delightedly.
You swoop down from your lofty perch and find yourself standing in an ancient forest, Culverwood, breathing in the good green scent of the ancient trees. There is a dark, malevolent blot at the edge of your senses whom the collective knows to be Parnoth the oppressor--then suddenly, the blot disappears from sight and you hear the great beast's agonized screams.
More screams and cries ring in your ears now--the voices of those who oppose and harm Nature, the voices of those who would hold back the elves and make them lesser beings, the voices of evil. Too long they have been allowed to run free, but now they face their just reward. Through it all, the owner of the eyes continues to laugh.
The dream ends and the personal you physically awakens with laughter still ringing in your ears.}
The elves come to rest on the ground and the nimbus of light around them fades. Their eyes open as if they have been asleep.
Sarigar and Black Paws Saturday March 19th, 2005 10:08:36 PM
The brothers arrive wherever the group has decided they are going to leave from, looking a little bloated and very happy having eaten an entire pie only hours ago. The haphazard way in which they are draped in their "whites" makes them almost look more like a carnival attraction than people trying to be clouds.
Renik d20+14=27 d20=2 Sunday March 20th, 2005 5:24:40 PM
(OOC: Jerry's post suggests Arien and Draax are both in the same room. I'm assuming by extension that we are all in a shared dorm at the temple. Apologies if that is incorrect.)
The rogue swiftly falls into a profound slumber. His gentle snores waft around the shared dormitory at the temple as he and his companions sleep.
As the two companions with elven blood begin to glow and the air starts to hum with barely constrained power hairs all over the rogue's body stand on end. He stirs in his sleep, a broad smile spreads across his lips, and he mumbles "Mmmmmh, Katyana, what are you doing? Hmmmm, that's nice..."
He nestles down further into his pillow, but the light and the thrumming of the room conspire to wrest him from his pleasant reveries (Listen 27. Figured that was enough for him to wake up?). "Blow out that light he grumbles." He opens an eye a crack, then sits bolt upright in bed.
"What in the name of..." he cries, as he sees the two floating above the floor, circling one another in a blazing corona of light. He stares wildly about him as he realises the room itself is alive with tangible, audible power.
And then the two come back to earth, and the power fades. Renik is on his feet and by their side in seconds. "Does somebody want to tell me what the Shadow just happened here? Is this a regular thing with you two, are congratulations in order? What?"
Despite his flippant words his tone is urgent, his concern genuine. He examines his friends for any signs of ill-effects from the bizarre phenomenon (untrained Heal check 2).
Draax Sunday March 20th, 2005 7:07:15 PM
As soon as Draax opens his eyes he jumps up and his body shakes in excitement and awe. He is so excited that it takes him a moment to register that he is not alone. Draax starts pacing the floor while he talks to himself out loud. "No way! ... I always thought... I could never have imagined... this is so great! Mom was right, but still... hmmm."
Draax registered the others presences when Renik speaks, "I not really sure what happened... no that is not true, I do know what happened, but I never thought it could happen to me... I always thought my human side prohibited me from participating."
Realizing that he is babbling Draax takes a couple of deep breaths and calms himself down. "OK, when I was a child my mother told me about the joining of the minds, when all elves share the same dream, vision, message, or something of that nature. I never really paid to much attention to her stories because I thought my human side prevented me from the sharing. Well, I believe me and Arien just joined the minds of every elf and elven blooded being in the wold."
Draax tell the others of the dream while it is still fresh in his mind. He talks slowly, trying to hold back his excitement.
Tratain Sunday March 20th, 2005 9:41:07 PM
Tratain watches Draax and Arien float around the room, a little concerned for them. When Draax describes the dream, Tratain thinks for a few minutes before saying, "On the surface that dream doesn't seem all that bad, forests growing is a good thing right? But someone or something gathered the elves together for that dream, perhaps as a warning? I'm guessing that the Eyes you saw were from the being called the sleeper we've been hearing about. What do you think?"
Tratain will head back to the druid quarter and ask Elpanon and the Greenman what they think of the dream before the group starts off on their journey across the bay.
Arien Monday March 21st, 2005 3:48:02 PM
Arien sits up after the dream with the laughter still in his ears. He stays very still for a moment, staring at nothing. When Tratain mentions that it might be a warning Arien speaks, "I did not sense any foul intent in those eyes. I believe that something of great signifance is about to happen for those of us with elven blood." Arien's eyes narrow a moment in an unthinking echo of those great eyes. "Perhaps our challenger will know more of this matter."
Aftermath (DM Cayzle) Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 12:13:25 AM
In the night, the sight of the elvenblooded in their dream is weird enough! But the story that Arien and Draax report is even weirder!
[Since Draax recounted the dream while it was still fresh, all can read the hidden text above.]
And Draax hits on the weirdest thing of all: I believe me and Arien just joined the minds of every elf and elven blooded being in the Wold!
What could it mean? Renik is concerned for his two friends, despite his joking, and he may be relieved to see that they are both fine.
Sarigar shows up with Black Paws, oblivious!
Tratain thinks that it is worth visiting the elven druid before setting out. A quick trip to the Druids Quarter finds Elpanon tending the gate as ever (though the gnome is nowhere around). And he cannot stop the huge grin that has spread over his face.
He says, when the dream is mentioned, "Isn't it wonderful? Deliverance from Parnoth! Finding evil! Oh, I can't wait for the Sleeper to awake!"
The Green Man is on a retreat, pondering, and is not to be disturbed.
Arien is thinking ahead to the mysterious letter writer. Sarigar's "whites" and Renik's grays hint of the course you intended. What's next?
Feng Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 9:05:02 AM
Feng listens intently while drinking some morning tea. The dream, as it was told to him, was very interesting. The fact that there was some cosmic entity or perhaps some long slumbering deity was very believable. If the dream was true then it would be a good thing for the world. At least it appeared that way at first. It could cause much tension in the forests grow into the human cities. Not everybody would understand or want to for that matter. Feng keeps his thoughts to himself to not ruin the moment for Draax and Arien.
Draax Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 10:16:29 AM
Draax is so excited about the sharing of the minds that it takes a moment to realize that there was probably a message or some important meaning about the dream. From the expression of the eyes when they opened Draax gets the feeling that the eyes are the sleeper. He nods his head in agreement when Tratain speaks those same thoughts. When Elpanon unofficially confirms their belief, the half-elf wonders if it was the future they was seeing, or a possible future. He agrees with Arien's assessment, but Draax believes that whatever is coming will be of great signifance to much more than just the elves of the Wold. One thing does bother him about the dream and that is Parnoth the oppressor.
To the group he says, "I may need to get a refresher course on my religions and deities of the Wold, but who is this Parnoth the oppressor? It had the feel of some omnipotent being, but I do not remember hearing anything about him, her, or it. It's probably another one of the tales that my mother told me that I was not paying attention to."
If none of he group knows who Parnoth is, Draax will ask Elpanon.
Arien Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 4:05:52 PM
Arien is impatient now to be off. With the strange dream still in his mind he is more determined than ever to find their letter writer. While Tratain is visiting the druids, Arien double checks his gear and makes sure everything is ready to go.
Renik Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 4:21:01 PM
Renik tries to bring Sarigar up to speed. "We must fly east. Tratain will cast a spell on us all, which will take us over the sea to a beautiful forest. There we must meet an elf to learn about a strange dream that Arien and Draax had last night," he explains. "It seems a great nature spirit might be about to awaken, and cause forest to grow across the Wold."
"I have heard of Parnoth" says the rogue over breakfast. "If I'm not mistaken he is a Green Dragon, the ruler of the Emerald Kingdom to the West of here. When I have heard his name spoken it is in tones of awe and fear. If every elf in the Wold has shared a dream of his impending death it will not be long before he hears of it, I am sure. There are bound to be repercussions, regardless of whether this dream is a true glimpse of the Wold's future or merely a possible series of events. I fear grim times ahead for the denizens of that ill-fated land."
"But we cannot concern ourselves with that; our own path is plain. We must fly east and learn more of these events. Could the elf who gave you the spell in our dreams be the instigator of the dream of all the Elves? Could he be the same person who sent us our letter? Is that spell in some way related to this dream? Arien, could you cast it upon me? I would be interested to experience its effects first hand."
Renik is quiet a long time. Then he looks earnestly at Arien and Draax and he says, "I feel I must introduce a note of caution my friends. These tumultuous events you describe might be to the benefit of the elves of the Wold, but might they also be to the detriment of the other races? If the growth of the forests you describe truly takes place what will become of human cities? Of commerce? Of civilisation? Will they be spared or consumed in the green? I know of certain druids who consider hewn trees and stone dwelling places a crime against nature. Who is to say how far is far enough, what constitutes oppression of nature, and who is the arbiter of evil? I do not mean to cast aspersions on your shared vision, but I have seen the power of nature first hand. I have seen the trees rise up and destroy an entire community, crushing and killing until every man, woman and child lay dead, every home lay in ruins. I was the only survivor that day, to the best of my knowledge. Where my home town stood there is now only deep, silent forest. Where did the good and evil lie that day? What if this the future that your vision portends?"
He reflects that he knows far less about elves than he thought. They seem so like us, just thin humans with pointy ears. But this event has shown him they are far more alien than he had realised. The ability to link the minds of their entire race? Astonishing! Not to mention rather frightening. He had no idea the elves had that power. He wonders what other secrets this cool, placid race have been keeping, and where the allegiance of the elves might lie were it to come to a choice between the achievements of humanity and the call of nature. He keeps these thoughts strictly to himself.
"Whatever the truth of the matter we must depart at once if we are to get to the root of it. Tratain, will your spells be sufficient for us all? If so let us make haste."
As they get ready he comments, "You know, from the sound of that dream we may not be in the Green Man's employ for as long as I feared. 3 moons he said, and there were 3 moons in your vision. That cannot be coincidence."
He pens a brief but passionate letter that causes even Renik to blush as he reads it back. He seals it and then posts it to a certain Catacombs staff member. Then he is ready, his gear checked, his eyes bright with the call of new adventure.
Tratain Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 6:37:46 PM
Tratain listens to what the others say, he too is troubled by the dream the elves shared but keeps his doubts to himself. Renik is right he thinks, how far will the elves and the sleeper go if he is awakened, it could very easily lead to a war between Elves and Everyone else if they are not carefull. Right now the being that seems to be bearing the brunt of the wrath is an Evil Dragon, but for how long?
Tratain Continued Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 6:38:22 PM
When everyone is ready to go Tratain will Cast his Windwalk spells and Travel with the others across the Dragon Bay.
In Flight across Dragon Bay (DM Cayzle) Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 12:09:34 AM
Renik, Feng, and Tratain all feel at least a little worried about the meaning of the elven dream -- although they express themselves with a greater or lesser degree of restraint and diplomacy.
Draax is filled amazement at the dream experience. But at last he thinks about the actual message as well as the experience. He wonders about the being called Parnoth.
Renik explains that Parnoth is an ancient and powerful dragon who rules the Emerald Kingdom. Formerly an elf realm allied with the Culverwood, the Emerald Kingdom was conquered by Parnoth, who tamed the southern reaches of the forest and enslaved the elves.
Arien is ready to get moving. So Tratain casts his magic and transforms the Hamleteers into vapors. Flying faster and faster, you all move over the waters of Dragon Bay. East and east, flying by. After hours of this, at last land is visible on the horizon -- the far side of Dragon Bay, where few people of New Elenna have ever been.
You land on a placid shore. Hills and forest arise inland.
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+20=32 Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 12:17:49 PM
As the brothers hear the explanation of what happened during the night, they feel a little left out of the experience. Here they are, children of nature and they didn't get to see all of this. Hearing of Parnoth, the brothers look somewhat bored. They've seen a dragon or two (albiet from a good distance) and knowing one is acting like a king actually disappoints them somewhat.
Numerous times throughout the trip across the bay, the others clearly hear a loud "WEEEEEEEE" and "WOOOOOOOO" and other expressions of excitement and fun. They even see the two of the wisp-like forms doing loops and spirals along the way. It's quite obvious that the brothers are thoroughly enjoying the trip.
Upon touchdown on the other side of the bay, the brothers jump around in glee. "Ooo, ooo, let's do that again. That was fun." After a few moments they finally take in their surroundings and it finally sinks in that they are not in familiar surroundings. Their enjoyment instantly turns to intense scrutiny as they begin to scan the area and sniff the air.
Sarigar picks up a handful of dirt and grass, holds it to his nose and takes a good long sniff, trying to find the smells of animals (and monsters) that he may recognize (Survival 32). He looks to the others as to whether they should get moving or whether they're going to hold here for the moment.
Draax Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 3:53:03 PM
Draax is surprised that they soared over the dragon bay without incident. He has the urge to kiss the ground when they land, but stops himself from performing the act. While looking around for any immediate danger Draax recalls the vision from the Green Man and remembers the beasts that were roaring as they passed above the land. He watches Sarigar inspect the area and waits to see if his little friend or anyone else in the group senses any danger.
Renik Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 4:15:13 PM
Renik looks up and down the beach. All seems calm enough for now. How long will that last, he wonders.
"Tratain, are you in need of a rest, or shall we make a start at once?" he asks. He tries to remember where the dream took them last time. "It has to be said, hunting for a single elf in these woods may very well be like looking for a needle in a haystack. Sarigar, can you detect any sign of elven activity nearby?"
Tratain Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 6:47:30 PM
Tratain says "We can travel now if you like, I have no pressing need to rest. My guess is that whoever sent for us will be watching and being as they're druids and know this forest they'll find us."
Feng Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 8:19:47 PM
With Tratain able to travel Feng takes the time to summon his warhorse from his planar home.
"Let us make haste. There is much to learn and probably very little time."
Arien Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 8:31:19 PM
Arien looks about pensively as they land on the shore. His mind has been in turmoil since the dream. The dream predicted great things for the elven race, but his friends' fears made him wonder at what cost. Would he be forced to choose his friends over his people? Could he make that choice? Still mulling over these thoughts Arien starts walking towards the woods.
Into New Forestland (DM Cayzle) Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 11:45:30 PM
Sarigar enjoys the trip and then makes a quick look around the area. He finds signs of large predators and prey -- giant elf, maybe, big felines, large reptiles -- but nothing fresh. And no elf prints.
The party talks about the need for rest and decides to press on. Feng summons his warhorse.
Tratain suggests that the elves will find the party.
With different thoughts in your heads, you enter the forest.
Please list your marching order, spacing, and any special precautions you will take as you travel.
Renik d20+14=22 d20+14=24 d20+20=31 Thursday March 24th, 2005 6:57:08 AM
"Sarigar, you take point" says the rogue. "Err, that is, you and Blackpaws go first. We're in no rush, so keep a good eye out for danger or signs of elves, and proceed with caution. Feng, you lead up the others but keep a fair distance back from Sarigar. I'll go last."
Renik waits for the others to move out, then draws a shortsword, takes one last look around and heads into the forest. He moves carefully, trying to attune his senses to the tranquil rythms of the forest (Spot 22, Listen 24, Move Silent 21 (-5 penalty for moving at faster than half speed, -5 penalty for walking through forest)).
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+31=36 d20+26=40 d20+16=35 d20+16=18 d20+20=34 Thursday March 24th, 2005 3:17:10 PM
Without a word, the brothers jog on ahead, heading east. Once a decent distance from the group, they'll slow down and be more precise in their observations. They'll also start prowling (Hide 36, Move Silently 40) so as not to aleart anyone of their approach.
They're looking for human-sized tracks and elven smells, but also keeping an eye and ear and nose out for possible predators that might be a problem (Listen 35, Spot 18, Survival 34).
Should they spot a trail, they'll simply being to follow it. Any sign of danger and they'll hold up and signal the others of it.
Tratain d20+10=27 Thursday March 24th, 2005 6:36:36 PM
Tratain Follows Renik's Orders and Marches near Feng. Also before the Party sets out Tratain takes out his Rod of Lesser Extend and casts Magic Vestment on his Shield, and passes it to Arien if he wants to use a charge to Cast Mage Armor on himself.
Tratain Scans the Forest looking for Danger. (Spot 27)
Draax Thursday March 24th, 2005 8:05:48 PM
Draax joins the marching order behind Tratain, he stays alert waiting for any sign of trouble. As they walk, Draax holds an arrow lightly against the string of his bow ready to use if necessary.
Feng Thursday March 24th, 2005 9:07:43 PM
"Sounds good. If we run into any trouble I doubt they will see Sarigar. Most likely they will focus on me." Feng replies as he moves into position.
Giant Winged Six-Legged Weasels, Oh My! (DM Cayzle) d20+8=23 d20+8=27 d20+8=22 [secret DM rolls] d20+8=22 d20+8=23 d20+8=24 d20+8=27 [more secret rolls] Friday March 25th, 2005 6:56:27 AM [This is the Thursday night DM Post! I'll post next either Friday night or Saturday early morning.]
Renik suggests a plan of action, and the party executes it. Sarigar and Black Paws scout ahead. [OOC: In general, please roll seperately for hiding and moving silent for both Black Paws and Sarigar. Remember the size penalty on Hide for Black Paws.]
Tratain buffs up, as he walks next to Feng, Draax, and Arien. Renik brings up the rear, also moving stealthily.
Following Sarigar's lead, the party makes good time. Sarigar has to reveal himself now and then when the main party loses track of him. The Lost Child is at home here, and notes several regional variations. More black squirrels scampering, fewer grey ones. Different kinds of moss grow on rocks and trees. Different birdsongs. Most of these details are lost on the rest of the party, but even they get a sense of great age in this wood. The tree trunks are huge.
Sarigar, who is about 75 feet ahead of the group at the moment, notices larger creatures about 50 feet ahead of him and Black Paws. He sees two things unknown to him, but they look like giant winged six-legged weasels, each about as big as Black Paws. They are feasting on three fallen elk. They have not noticed you yet. The rest of the party will catch up to you next round.
Sarigar, if you can make a Spot check vs. DC 22, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: { You see a smaller version of these creatures only 20 feet away, hiding. It is about your size. It is looking at Black Paws in obvious fear. It is stock still, aside from a twitching nose, and silent.}
Sarigar, if the same Spot check beats DC 23, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: { You see a second youngling.}
Sarigar, if the same Spot check beats DC 24, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: { You see a third youngling.}
Sarigar, if the same Spot check beats DC 27, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: { You see a fourth youngling.}
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+16=29 d20+16=27 d20+31=35 d20+16=23 d20+26=29 d20+16=29 Friday March 25th, 2005 11:34:41 AM
With their keen senses already working on high, the brothers spot the four young weasel-like creatures, though one nearly escaped Black Paws vision. They immediately back up slowly, trying to avoid the attention of the larger ones and alert the party to what's ahead (Hide 35/23, Move Silently 29/29).
Hopefully they can get back to the party before they alert the "weasels". "I might be able to make em friends, but I dunno. Never seen these before. The little uns seem scared of brother."
Arien (Mage Armor, AC 21) Friday March 25th, 2005 12:44:06 PM
Arien declines the rod as he already has an extended Mage Armor prepared. He then casts the spell upon himself and continues on with the rest.
Renik d20+25=28 Friday March 25th, 2005 12:45:47 PM
The rogue comes to a halt as soon as he spies Sarigar returning, attempting to blend with the undergrowth (Hide 28) he whispers to the others "Keep well back. I'd rather avoid these things altogether, as they will no doubt fight if they think their young are threatened. But Sarigar, it's your call, befriend them or steer us a path past them as you think best."
Tratain AC 27 (Extended Magiv Vestment) Friday March 25th, 2005 4:36:20 PM
Tratain says to the others "We should try and slip around them if we can, theres no need for us to provoke them if we can help it. They have a the elks to feed on so they shouldn't both us as long as we don't get close enough to be taken as a threat to them or thier young I hope. Lets just go around them."
Draax Friday March 25th, 2005 5:39:47 PM
Draax whispers, "I agree with going around if possible. We do not mess with them if the do not mess with us."
Quick Debate (DM Cayzle) Saturday March 26th, 2005 10:34:18 AM
Sarigar creeps back and talks with the rest of the Hamleteers.
Away from the winged six-legged giant weasels, Sarigar suggests avoidance or an attempt to befriend.
The rest of the group suggests avoidance, but Renik leaves the decision to Sarigar.
A minute after the Lost Child and Black Paws are out of their sight, the weasel babies start making scared eeping sounds. The two adults immediately howl and rush to the cubs. At least, that's the logical deduction based on what you hear.
You do not think the adults can see or hear you. You can't see them, and you can only hear them because they are loud. Sounds like they are 80 to 100 feet away through the underbrush.
Draax Sunday March 27th, 2005 9:24:39 PM
"If there is a trail to get around these things, I suggest we take it. I do not want to have to kill them while defending ourselves and leave their young unprotected."
Tratain Sunday March 27th, 2005 10:52:59 PM
Tratain says I agree with Draax, theres no need for us to fight them if we can help it. lets just go in a wide arc around them."
Feng Monday March 28th, 2005 7:45:02 AM
"Sounds like a smart plan. Their young are somewhere nearby and any type of improper movement might make them think we are a threat. We don't need any unnecessary battles."
Renik d20+25=39 d20+20=37 Monday March 28th, 2005 10:58:12 AM
"It seems we are of one mind" says the rogue without a trace of incredulity creeping into his voice. "Let us work our way around as quietly as we are able, everyone. Sarigar, you may still need to work your charms if they take a dislike to the clanking of Feng's armor." He gives his half-orc companion a cheerful nudge. "Very well, let's go."
The rogue melts into the undergrowth like a shadow (Hide 39, Move Silent 37), continuing to take up the rear.
Sarigar and Black Paws (CV145, AC24/21) d20+16=30 d20+16=32 d20+31=43 d20+16=17 d20+26=29 d20+16=21 d20+20=35 Monday March 28th, 2005 6:25:45 PM
When they hear the frightened chirpings of the babies, the brothers take a few moments and listen intently (Listen 30/32). They don't believe they are the cause of the babies' cries and wonder if there might be another danger in the area.
If they detect the sounds of a possible danger or potentially larger predator nearby, they will alert the others and begin to quietly move back toward the "weasels". Otherwise, they will begin to scout a path around them so as not to alert them more than they already are (Hide 43/17, Move Silently 29/21, Survival 35).
Circling the Weasels (DM Cayzle) d20+21=33 [opposed Hide check] Tuesday March 29th, 2005 6:15:23 AM
Sarigar leads the group around the weasel-beasts. The howling of the adults seems to have stopped.
If you make a Listen check vs DC 20, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You hear the sound of the younglings change in tone.}
If you make the Listen check AND a Sense Motive check vs DC 20, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You think the younglings sound happy!}
You manage to evade the creatures without incident. Or is there? If you make a Spot check vs DC 33, then Highlight to display spoiler: {You see a glimpse of an elf in the woods, hiding as he follows you.}
Tratain has an idea for how to find the way to go. But he suggests that the party make a camp of it for the night so that he can prepare new spells bright and early the next day. If you choose to do this, please tell me what watches you set and precautions you take, if any.
Renik d20+14=28 d20+3=21 d20+14=27 Tuesday March 29th, 2005 7:34:39 AM
Renik follows the party as they succesfully evade the curious creatures. He notices a change in the tone of the younglings cries as he goes. "From the sound of things they are pleased to see the back of us" he notes to whoever is in front of him (Listen 28, Sense Motive 21). He pauses, looks back into the woods, but is pretty satisfied the creatures are not following them (Spot 27). He turns and continues after his companions until Tratain makes his suggestion.
"I agree Tratain, making camp is probably a good idea. We will need to be well rested for the day ahead, and if you think there are spells you might prepare that will aid our search, then so much the better. Let us find a suitable spot."
Once the party have located a campsite Renik suggests that he and Feng take first watch, Sarigar and Draax second to allow the spellcasters an unbroken night to focus upon their spells.
After they have partaken of rations Renik pulls two books from his trouser pockets. One is the Green Man's tome. In this he describes all of the events of the day, including details of the remarkable dream of the previous night. When he is done he passes the book around the group, asking them to add any details or events he has missed. That done he returns the Green Man's tome to his pocket.
He then opens the second book. Some of the older party members recognize it as Bill Troublefinder's Journal of Writing, entrusted to the rogue for safekeeping. He leans back, hands behind his head, and begins to recount details of the group's adventures after the battles in the caves beneath the Silver Seagull Inn. As he speaks written words spring fully formed onto the page as if penned by some invisible scribe.
"Search for a Soul
The summoning took place and at once we found ourselves transported to the Lands of Rest, standing before Gargul himself...
Tratain d20+10=17 d20+10=22 Tuesday March 29th, 2005 11:46:14 AM
Tratain says "They seem to be quieter now, most animals in the forest will leave you alone if you don't bother them. Tomorrow I will Memorize a spell that should be able to direct us to the Elven village we saw in the Vision the Green Man showed us."
Tratain takes what rest he needs early and then will help watch the rest of the night, using his goggles of night to see in the darkness.
Sarigar and Black Paws (CV145, AC24/21) d20+1=16 d20+15=22 d20+16=35 d20+26=33 d20+31=41 Tuesday March 29th, 2005 12:22:59 PM
As the brothers listen intently (see previous post unless you need me to roll em again), they detect the change in their tone but are not sure what it indicates (Sense Motive 16).
As they lead the party around, they keep their eyes, ears and noses open for any other potential dangers in the area (Listen 23, Spot 35). Sarigar barely picks out the pursuing elf and signals the others that someone is following. He mentally tells his brother to continue leading the others to a "safe" camp area while he attempts to watch the elf further. He then tucks himself into the brush (Move Silently 33, Hide 41) and keeps a wary eye on the elf to see what his intentions may be.
Feng Tuesday March 29th, 2005 7:06:39 PM
Feng enjoys taking watch because it is a time of peace and quiet. The days events have passed giving time for reflection and prayer. Sometimes he wonders what his life would be like had he not chosen this difficult path but not once does he regret his choices. They are constantly busy traveling the wold to battle evil wherever it lurks, which is fine with him. Still on those days his body aches from battle or from wearing his armor for far too long does he long for extended times of peace and rest.
"Renik I will stay up into the next watch. The ring I wear only requires me a couple hours of sleep."
Draax Tuesday March 29th, 2005 9:21:10 PM
Draax is as happy as the others that they were able to go around the creatures without a fight. When they reach a campsite, he will eat some rations and get some rest before his watch. As he makes himself comfortable, Draax wonders if he will ever receive another one of those all elven dreams again.
Arien (AC 21, Mage Armor) Wednesday March 30th, 2005 2:06:02 AM
Arien finds a place to sleep near the base of a tree, hopefully between two roots to provide some protection. He leans up against the tree for a bit, still thinking about the dream. Then after a quick meal Arien settles back against the tree and slips into trance.
Roaring in the Night (DM Cayzle) d20+21=26 Wednesday March 30th, 2005 6:31:06 AM
Sarigar, Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You keep an eye on the elf, and after a while he retreats deeper into the woods.}
Those with elvish blood wonder if they will dream again tonight ... but their rests are untroubled and free of visions.
You settle in for the night, and Feng alerts the party when he hears a wild roaring!
If you (anyone who wants to be awake) can make a Spot check vs. DC26, then Please Highlight to display spoiler: {You get a glimpse of a humanoid figure in confrontation with a huge lumbering beast. The beast moves off, and the humanoid slips into shadows.}
But no obvious threat emerges from the dense underbrush, and the roaring moves off.
After a light rain just before dawn, and anyone up at that time might hear frogs delighting in it -- reep reep reep! reep reep reep! reep reep reep! In the morning, damp but refreshed, you are ready to start the day under a bright sun.
Philip, Please Highlight to display spoiler: {Um, I see move and hide silent checks for your PC, but what about Black Paws? Didn't matter tonite, but in general, remember to roll for both, if you would.}
Renik d20+14=18 Wednesday March 30th, 2005 9:33:24 AM
"A handy item" Renik says, accepting Feng's offer.
The rogue is still on watch with Feng when the roaring begins. He peers into the undergrowth but sees nothing unusual through the gloom (Spot 18).
Once the sound of roaring moves away he completes his watch, then gets some rest. He awakens at first light, brushes himself as dry as he is able, and prepares some breakfast.
"Very well Tratain, let's see if your spells can aid us in our quest".
Sarigar and Black Paws d20+16=30 d20+20=31 d20+16=30 Wednesday March 30th, 2005 1:48:24 PM
After watching the elf for a time, Sarigar finally returns to the camp, part way through Feng's watch. Seeing the others sleeping, he tells Feng and Renik quietly, "Elf was watching us, but he's gone now. Might have been the weasel-things druid or somethin'." He keeps watch with Feng for a bit, then curls up with his brother on the fringe of the camp to sleep.
Black Paws, having slept most of the first watch is awake for the fight nearby and takes note of it. Sarigar awakens with Feng's warnings. They watch carefully (Spot 30/30), Black Paws growling lightly any time it looks as if the fight moves toward the camp. Once the fight has moved on, Black Paws paces slowly around the edge of camp keeping an eye on the area, then settles back down to sleep again.
The brothers wake in the morning, shake off the dew, spraying anyone nearby. They then scrounge up their morning meal (Survival 31) and are ready in very short order.
ooc: I didn't roll Black Paws hide and move silently when watching the elf because he was leading the party onward and wasn't being particularly sneaky at the time.
Tratain d20+10=20 Wednesday March 30th, 2005 4:47:07 PM
Tratain peers into the darkness when he hears the roaring but can't make anything out. When it moves on and quiets down he settles back in to watch the rest of the night.
In the Mourning Tratain Memorizes his spells, Takes out his Rod of Lesser Extend and Casts Magic Vestment on his Shield. He offers the Rod again to Arien for his Mage Armor spell if he wants it, and casts Delay Poison on Arien through the Rod aswell. If Arien doesn't use the Rod he will Use the Last Charge to cast Delay poison on Renik if he wants.
After that Tratain Casts Find the Path and leads the party towords the Elven Village they were shown in the vision.
------------------------------------------- 0 level: Cure Minor Woundsx2; Detect Magicx3; Read Magic 1st Level: Bless; Shield of Faithx2; Divine Favor;Prot. From evilx2;Remove Fear(Sanctuary) 2nd Level: Endurance; Bull's Strength; Delay Poisonx2**; Silence; Resist Energy(Spiritual Weapon) 3rd Level: Invisibility Purge; Prayer; Dispel Magicx2;Magic Vestment;(Protection from Energy) 4th Level: Freedom of Movement; Divine Power;Death Ward;Dimensional Anchor(Spell Immunity) 5th Level: True Seeing; Righteous Might;Quickened Divine Favor;Quickened Shield of Faith (Flame Strike) 6th Level: Heal;Find The Path*; Mass Bears Endurence (Blade Barrier)
Feng Wednesday March 30th, 2005 6:27:50 PM
When the roar echoes through the camp Feng grabs his double axe and stands up ready for trouble. He's pleasently suprised when no large animals burst through the brush and into their camp.
"Elf you say?" Feng says quietly to Sarigar after the wild man's revelation of their mysterious watcher. He says no more but keeps alert for any more trouble. In the morning Feng eats a light breakfast even though his ring sustains him better then any meal would. Food tastes good and Feng does like to eat.
"Will we make the elven village this day or the next?"
Draax Wednesday March 30th, 2005 9:09:16 PM
Draax quickly wakes up and peers into the darkness looking from any sign of trouble. He listening to what is said about the elf, but realizes that he probably could not see the stranger unless the elf wanted to be seen.
Since he is up Draax decides to stay on watch until morning.
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