The Big Dream [CDM Jerry] Saturday March 19th, 2005 12:57:47 PM
From that emptiness and nothingness of unconsciousness comes a flicker of light.
It grows and begins to envelop. Your spirits rise out of your bodies to float together in a circle facing in.
A voice from somewhere deep within says, "Something's happening."
Some sort of collective elven effect is at work!
As you struggle to come to grips with these events, your 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. 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 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 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.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Sunday March 20th, 2005 9:04:18 PM "Wowsy! Wowsy!"
"You said it, Boss!" adds Mookie.
"What was that?" asks Vauhwyt. "What does it mean? Elfs are going to fight evil? Huh! Is that good? I guess it is!"
"Did you guys all dream what I did?"
DM Brent - It starts Monday March 21st, 2005 12:17:43 AM
Everyone wakes in Gratchien's apartment with a loud crack in your ears - on the floor with the corpse lying near you, the vision still reverberating in your minds.
Whatever else has happened, the symbol of Marteaus on the floor has been warped and twisted. The sound has rattled the tapestries and moved furniture. {Everyone make a spot roll}
From the window you hear a raucous noise filling the air and people screaming and shouting.
Vorelle d20+7=26 Monday March 21st, 2005 12:33:43 AM
Vorelle looks about in complete bewilderment. The last thing she remembered, she was in the hallway. Now, after a strange dream, she is lying back in the room with a corpse on the floor. She jumps to her feet and moves to put as much distance as she can between herself and the body, drawing her axes as she moves. Her senses, sharpened by the rush of adrenaline, miss little in the room. [Spot 26]
Rose d20+5=21 Monday March 21st, 2005 5:39:28 AM
Rose let out a piercing scream as she saw the body. Then wakes up having fallen on the floor and had this really weird dream. "Wha happened?" She asks as she looks around while rubbing the bump on her head.
Dietrich d20+4=17 Monday March 21st, 2005 7:08:44 AM
Too shocked to even swear, Dietrich just sits there with his mouth open in astonishment. Then he gazes at his friends in search for answers, specially from Olyn, as the one more in touch with the elven ways.
The warrior is in awe from what he's seen, but also scared and overwhelmed. Fortunatelly the sound of people screaming awakens him to the immediate world. He raises and takes his bow, running to watch out of the window.
Spot 17
Olyn d20+4=22 Monday March 21st, 2005 9:49:50 AM
laying on the ground upon wakening, tears wet on his cheeks, Olyn smiles.
slowly the Half Elf gets his knees underneath him, then on his arms. then he pushes himself into a hands and knees posture. and then, grabbing the bedpost next to him he pulls himself up from the ground.
saying aloud to noone and everyone: Parnoth finally will get his reward for his deeds, and my kin will make sure it is swift and just.
rubbing the sleep and tears from his eyes he looks around the room at the disarray. and goes to the others, helping them up off the floor. hugging each one as they rise.
Zayne d20+8=18 d20+8=25 Monday March 21st, 2005 5:08:09 PM
The young ranger sits up and stares blankly at the wall,speaking out loud to no one in particular,"Wow." Sitting there blank faced for a while he then springs into action,heading to the nearest window and trying to see if he can hear or see what made such a thunderous sound.(Listen 18 Spot 25)
Berlon by DM Brent Monday March 21st, 2005 11:15:57 PM
Berlon gets up rubbing his holy symbol and looking closely at the symbol of Marteaus. He seems engrossed in it not reacting immediately to the sounds outside the window.
DM Brent Monday March 21st, 2005 11:22:26 PM
Those looking out the window see several huge flocks of multicolored birds flying over the city. Below the citizens' reactions run the gambit from horrified to astonished.
Vorelle and Zayne (and anyone else with a 25 or better on the spot) surveying the room again notice that a tapestry, presumably moved by the odd shockwave has revealed a small hole in the wall that is only visible because there is a small light shining out from the hole.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+4=10 Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 7:25:39 AM
From the room in the Prince's Tower, Vauhwyt looks out to see what the ruckus is about. She does not see the pinhole or whatsis (Spot 10).
Then she goes over to the elf body. "So far as I can tell, it all happened when I touched this corpse. What will happen if I touch it again?"
"Uh, Boss," Mookie starts to object, but the impulsive liontaur has already prodded the body. If nothing happens, she'll search it and the chest it was in.
How long dead is it? Male or female? Clothed or not? Any signs as to class (mage? fighter?) or class (low? middle? upper?)
Vorelle d20+7=26 Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 10:10:08 AM
Cautiously, Vorelle approaches the tapestry and pulls it aside. She begins examining the wall, trying to figure out where the light is coming from and whether there's a way to open this space.
[Search 26]
Dietrich d20+3=8 Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 10:20:08 AM
Dietrihc sees the flocks of birds and wonders why people are screaming so much (local knowledge 8). It doesn't seem dangerous anyway and the warrior relaxes a little and focuses his attention again on the dream and the dead elf.
After Olyn's speech and uncommon behaviour, Dietrich thinks to himself: 'Who the (&**% is Parnoth? What the %£$%£ is going on here?'
As Vauhwyt is already examining the corpse, the ex-soldier goes to the guards nearby and sees if they had the same experience. He also asks them about the colourful birds.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday March 22nd, 2005 6:08:22 PM
It takes a bit longer for Theodore to come to. Just as Olyn is leaning over the fragile wizard to wake him, Theodore sits bolt upright with a gasp.
"W-what..." he manages to stammer, still seated on the floor.
Rose d20+3=14 d20+4=11 Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 3:40:45 AM
Rose moves to the window and stares at the flocks of birds. "Arent they pretty." She says as she tries to remember if they are dangerous or not and if they are from the dirt city area.
DM Brent Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 8:15:24 AM
{OOC: Seeing huge flocks of exotic birds large enough to darken the sky may not seem scary to you but to your typical superstitious commoner, I would say it is pretty scary. No worries}
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 4:37:39 PM
After poking the elf corpse and checking out the chest, Vauhwyt lifts it to one side and looks under it. She is careful, though, not to bang it, since the trap might still go off,
DM Brent Wednesday March 23rd, 2005 11:02:54 PM
{So sorry - today has been horrible, from sick kid to sick computer...}
Several of the group are befuddled by the vision and also by the sound from the window, looking out over the city as the birds circle back and forth, leaving parts of the city in shadow as they fly directly overhead.
Vauhwyt pokes around the body to look for clues. It is still pretty 'fresh'. The corpse was male and doesn't have any identification on it but it was dressed in good quality robes, now dirty with the corpse. There is deep bruising around the neck as if he were strangled. There is nothing else in the chest but the trap mechanism and several blocks of strong incense to cloak the smell of the body.
Vorelle looks over the wall and finds that there is a small loose section in a floor flagstone that triggers the door opening. There is a passage behind the wall. Wafting out is the smell of strong incense and decay...
Dietrich Thursday March 24th, 2005 7:00:58 AM
Dietrich is relieved that the birds aren't dangerous, though he too is surprised at their quantity. Together with the dream its enough to give him a strange feeling.
The warrior was just going to suggest to get more information about the dead elf, when Vorelle opens the secret door. That changes everything and he gets ready to explore it.
Before they enter it, Dietrich asks Zayne about his findings in the city: "Na old mate, what did you find out?"
He also says to the group: "Before everyone starts running throgh the door, I'd say Rose goes in front, making sure we don't fall into traps. Then the two rangers to cover her. Some paces behind, me, the clerics and Theo in the middle and finally Vauhwyt to cover our back. Remember, don't charge in everything that appear but let's get some missile fire first. Let's also save magic for the tougher foes."
Vauhwyt and Mookie (Mage Armor) Thursday March 24th, 2005 7:28:40 PM
"Wowsy! That was cleverr, Vorelle," says the liontaur. "I hope I can squeeze in therre!" She looks dubiously at the passage.
She stands, and Mookie says, "Boss! What about this!" he points his beak at the chest with the corpse.
"Oh, yeah, good thinking, Mookie," Vauhwyt says. Then she bows her head and says softly, "Lady, grant this poor elf peace in death and the satisfaction of knowing we are working to track down his killerr. Amen."
"No, Boss!" says Mookie, "The incense! You could sell that!"
"Oh." says Vauhwyt, and she pockets the blocks of incense.
By this time everyone else has probably filed into the secret way, so Vauhwyt follows at the rear, per Dietrich's suggestion. And since things are looking tricksy, she casts a Blood Armor on herself, and shares it with Mookie.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 24th, 2005 9:55:39 PM
Theodore manages to make it to a standing position. Macaw flutters down to perch on the wizard's head as he moves into the center of the group.
He clears his throat a couple of times, still trying to shake of the images of the dream.
Vorelle d20+7=18 d20+7=9 Thursday March 24th, 2005 10:06:33 PM
Liking the sound of Deitrich's plan, Vorelle steps back and gives Rose room to enter the passageway. She follows the halfling cautiously, eyes and ears open wide for any sign of a threat.
[Spot 18, Listen 9]
Berlon by DM Brent Thursday March 24th, 2005 11:52:57 PM
Berlon moves reluctantly to the passageway, still pale and silent holding his symbol.
Zayne by DM Brent Thursday March 24th, 2005 11:54:23 PM
Zayne starts to respond to Deitrich but stops as his voice begins to echo a bit in the entrance to the tunnel.
"later" he says.
DM Brent d20+6=25 Friday March 25th, 2005 7:56:53 AM
{I hesitate to put Rose in the lead without her post but oh well}
After Vauhwyt pockets the slightly gooey incense the group forms up to head into the passageway.
Rose heads into the corridor first, checking for and immediately finding a tripwire trap {Search:25}. Opting to avoid rather than disable she directs the others past the trap. Vauhwyt does think it will be tight in the 3 foot wide corridor, looking at it as she enters.
Inside the corridor, dimly lit by (assuming you create a light source :)) the groups torches is a passageway that goes by 2 more pinholes in the wall. After the corridor takes an abrupt turn there is a trapdoor that Rose notices. The corridor continues as well. The smell of incense and decay seem to be the stronger near the trapdoor.
Dietrich Friday March 25th, 2005 10:16:42 AM
Dietrich frowns upon Vauhwyt following Mookie's suggestion of taking the incense from the cursed chest, but concentrates on the task at hand.
He enters the tunnel with his longbow ready. The ex-soldier realizes the dangers Rose guides them through and the warrior is really happy to have her with him.
Dietrich doesn't like the smell of death and incense and reminds the clerics to be ready for *&$% undead.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Friday March 25th, 2005 7:33:10 PM
At the rear, Vauhwyt squeezes in. [Assuming that we are using the squeezing rules, right?]
If she has a chance, she will peek through the peepholes.
When the smell hits her nose, she grimaces and says, "Bleck! More undead!"
Theodore and Macaw Saturday March 26th, 2005 3:23:03 PM
Theodore moves cautiously, allowing the group to direct their path of movement. Macaw is silent atop his master's head, seeming to understand the danger involved.
Vorelle d20+7=26 Sunday March 27th, 2005 11:42:26 AM
[OOC: Vorelle can take the lead if Rose is unavailable.]
Vorelle stops to peer through each of the pinholes as they pass, wondering where they lead to. At the trapdor, she stops and assists Rose in searching for traps.
[Successfully Aid Another, giving a +2 to Rose's Search check--assuming Rose will search for traps]
Rose d20+6=8 d20+6=10 d20+7=26 d20+5=15 Sunday March 27th, 2005 10:06:58 PM
Rose carefully touches her belt as she mutters a few words (mage armor) and moves ahead with a light carefully searching for any more traps. At the smell she mutters under her breath "I've really got to buy some nose plugs"The smell and worry about undead is apparently taking her mind off listening and looking for traps and she doesnt give it her best. She does slip her hand into her belt pouch and makes sure a vial of holy water is at hand.
Listen: 8 search: 10 disable device: 26 spot: 15
ooc: sorry for not posting on thursday but I didnt feel well. Brent if I dont post please feel free to npc rose if she gets killed it's my fault. :-D
DM Brent Monday March 28th, 2005 12:51:48 PM
After checking for traps, Rose pries open the trapdoor. Luckily there are no apparent traps on the door. There is a ladder leading down into a room with another door and in one corner a table with a body on it.
The body has been tortured hideously, but the robes cast off to the side look familiar. It is hard to look long at the body which has symbols of Marteaus etched into it. The face is frozen into a permanent grimace.
The pooled blood beneath the table cover the room in a gory carpet. Nothing else seems visible but the door, the table and the body.
Berlon d20+6=10 d20+1=18 Monday March 28th, 2005 1:22:28 PM
Berlon simply shakes his head at the scene, pulling his cloak up around him in disgust. He will check out the symbols on the corpse to see if they mean anything to him (Knowledge: Religion check 10)
If he has time, he'll look around the room and see if if holds any other secrets (search check 18)
Vauhwyt and Mookie (Mage Armor) d20+1=16 Monday March 28th, 2005 4:14:11 PM
Bringing up the rear, Vauhwyt is still in the passageway.
"Too fat to fit down there, Boss?" Mookie says rudely.
"Sshhh!" Vauhwyt whispers. "Try to be sneaky!"
She peeks in the peepholes to see what she can see. She looks for any secret doors or hidden compartments. [Search 16]
She looks down the ladder and ponders climbing down. Is there room for her down there? Is there any way out of the room after going down?
Theodore and Macaw d20+8=28 Monday March 28th, 2005 9:15:56 PM
Theodore uses his staff to pick up the discarded robe and bring it in for a closer look.
"What is this, I wonder?" He does his best not to look at the body, but feels his belly rumble anyway.
(Local knowledge check = 28 (nat 20) to discern what robe is.)
Rose d20+6=7 d20+5=18 Tuesday March 29th, 2005 12:56:25 AM
Rose will look around the room for anything intersting or any traps then goes over to the body and says "Do you think we should pour some holy water over him, just in case?"
search: 7, nat 1 spot: 18
Vorelle Tuesday March 29th, 2005 1:22:00 AM
Vorelle hesitates. She really doesn't want to step off the ladder onto the blood-soaked floor. Still, the only way they're going to find out what's behind that door is to cross the room--blood and all. She steps off with a wince, then moves away to where she can cover the rest of the group with her bow.
Dietrich d20+4=5 d20+2=8 Tuesday March 29th, 2005 6:03:54 AM
Dietrich is disgusted with the scene and shakes his armoured head, shortly reflecting about all the horrors they've seen in DIrt City.
He guesses at Gratchien as the victim, remembering the robes in the room, but waits for confirmation. The warrior certainly approves Rose's suggestion about the holy water and makes the usual silent prayer to DOmi.
Finally he decides to descend the ladder into the bloodsoaked room, trying to pay attention to his surroundings. Unfortunatelly he can't take his eyes away from the tortured body (spot 5, listen 8)
DM Brent Tuesday March 29th, 2005 1:19:30 PM
The bulk of the party descend into the slaughterhouse, stepping gingerly to avoid slipping on the gory carpet.
Rose doesn't spot any traps and seems to intigued by the body to care. She and Dietrich both notice that the features, while distorted by blood, pain and death, are recognizable as Th'Ayvanen's.
Theodore comes to the same conclusions with the robes - they are some of Th'Ayvanen's colors and style of robe.
Berlon realizes that the symbols are small sigils of Marteaus and of pain and suffering.
Vorelle moves to cover the party near the single door out of the room.
Vauhwyt hesitates at the trapdoor, trying to decide if she should squeeze down or not.
Overall, the party is very uneasy about the discovery of the death of Th'Ayvanen and the elf in Gratchien's room.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday March 29th, 2005 6:47:54 PM
Theodore drops the robe back to the floor and turns away from the grisly scene. Although he was a harsh man, Th'Ayvanen was true to his prince and people. At least, Theodore thought as much.
"We should tell the prince," he says softly.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday March 29th, 2005 7:41:33 PM
Vauhwyt is having trouble seeing through these darn peepholes! She is intent on figuring out what they reveal. She squints and peers again.
"Boss, give it a rest," says Mookie. "If it was important you would have seen through them already!"
"Hush, Mookie," whispers the liontaur. "That kind of talk is not allowed!"
DM Brent - FYI and a question Wednesday March 30th, 2005 12:07:23 AM
{The peep holes look into other rooms that are at the moment, empty. Also, has anyone heard from Olyn? or Zayne?}
Vorelle d20+7=19 Wednesday March 30th, 2005 2:13:09 AM
Vorelle supresses a shudder when she learns the identity of the body. Th'Ayvanen had been one of the bullies, but even he had not deserved to die this way.
Vorelle makes her way to the door and listens intently at it.
[Listen check 19]
Rose Wednesday March 30th, 2005 5:06:04 AM
Rose will give a vial of holy water to one of the clerics so that the water can be poured over Th'Ayvanen and a prayer said. If the cleric doesnt do it then rose will just pour the water over Th'Ayvanen herself although she would rather one of the priests do it and say a prayer.
Dietrich Wednesday March 30th, 2005 11:38:22 AM
Dietrich is disturbed at Th'Ayvannen's horrible death. He quite like the man and who knows who is going to occupy his place at the Prince's side.
The warrior is divided between following Theodore's suggestion and continue the investigation. But then he realizes another point. "I'd normaly go with Theo, but not this time. If there are others behind this crime besides Gratchien, we shouldn't let them already know what we've discovered, as it could risk further investigations. So I'd say we continue on our trail and wait a little more to pass the information on."
Dietrich keeps his bow ready for the case anyone opens the door.
DM Brent Wednesday March 30th, 2005 1:27:19 PM
Rose has no volunteers for the holy water and so musters the courage to do it herself.
Vorelle hears nothing at the door.
As the group deliberates on their course of action, Vauhwyt hears something or someone coming up from behind the group on the level above.
As the liontaur calls out softly to the others, Jolath appears out of the darkness with several of the elite guard.
"We came to check on your investigation, and found the dead elf and the open entrance to this corridor. We came in force, expecting the worst. What have you found?" he asks.
Jolath and the guards escort the group back to Gratchien's room saying, "I will have some of my investigators go over the room beneath the trapdoor and the door. I expect that you will exercise the utmost discretion with regards to what you have found. It would not do to get out about the Prince's advisor. I congratulate you on what you have thus discovered. The Prince would like for me to expedite your search for the book by heading off in the direction indicated in our meeting this morning. Please keep us informed of your findings. I have a small cart and pony waiting in the courtyard for you with messenger pigeons that you can send back messages with."
With that Jolath has the guards escort you out of the castle and into the courtyard.
Berlon Wednesday March 30th, 2005 6:01:10 PM
As the entourage moves out, Berlon pauses a moment with Rose. "Conserve your breath... prayers are forsaken in his place..."
Vauhwyt and Mookie (Mage Armor) Wednesday March 30th, 2005 6:49:39 PM
Mookie whispers, "Cheese it! The guard!" he dives into his pouch on Vauhwyt's belt.
Vauhwyt blushes red, and she is grateful for the masking property of her red mage armor spell ("Blood Armor," she calls it). Still, from the embarrassed swish of her tail, it is clear she has the feeling of being caught with her hand in a cookie jar.
"Um, uh, sirr, well, we were just investigating ..." She winds down when Jolath offers congratulations and she realizes that they are being praised.
Mookie sticks his head out and says to Vauhwyt, "Lucked out again, huh, Boss? They say Wardd smiles on fools and small children, and you ain't small, Boss!"
"Hush Mookie," says the relieved Vauhwyt.
She join the group headed out of doors.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday March 30th, 2005 8:51:29 PM
Theodore follows the rest out into the courtyard, happy to leave the gory spectacle. Seeing the pony and cart waiting for them, he wonders as to the practicality of the pair. He says nothing, though, knowing the Prince to prickly at the best of times.
"I had hoped for a good night's sleep," complained Theodore. "But I suppose I will have to make do." Macaw voices his chagrin as well.
Vorelle Thursday March 31st, 2005 1:21:01 AM
Vorelle gladly climbs out of the room that smells of carrion, and joins her friends in the courtyard. She peers curiously at the pigeons. She's heard of such creatures, but never seen one before. She wonders how they know where to deliver the messages.
Dietrich d20+4=10 d20+3=16 d20+5=16 Thursday March 31st, 2005 9:53:50 AM
Dietrich isn't pleased at all when Jolath and the guards appear and hinder the party to see what is behind the door. It only further arouses his suspicions and he trys to read the man's motives (sense motivation 10).
The warrior keeps silent though and shows gratitude for the compliments (diplomacy 16).
He puts his bow away and accompanies the party to the cart to examine its content. Dietrich would have prefered to use the group's mules to transport rations and equipment instead of a cart in the swamps, but he understands it is a means for the Prince (or for this JOlath) to keep control over the party through the pigeons.
Finally, he makes acquaintance with the ponys (handle animal 15)and makes ready for departure.
DM SteveK Thursday March 31st, 2005 3:34:56 PM
[OOC: Hi Everybody! Hi Dr. Nick!]
Berlon, Vorelle, and Theodore show thier relief to getting out of the room. Vaugwyt seems happier that the group isn't in trouble.
And Dietrich is suspicious of what is going on. He doen't sense anything overt in Jorlath other than the need to find the Book before the trail grows too cold. The cart animals accept his ministrations and eagerly look for more care whenever the party stops for a moment.
A quick search of the cart reveals some stout camping gear, good travelling food, and a half-dozen messenger birds. It looks like the Prince (or more likely Jolath) is taking care of the group. Under the gazes of the guards, the heroes move out of the courtyard and towards the swamp.
In the City Above, the black swirling dust gets in your eyes and clings to your clothes. The market seems particularly active, with larger than normal produce making the tables groan. And yet your path moves away from your fellow citizens and towards the wilderness of trees, water, and the unknown.
Night finds the group on the edge of the Swamp. Tents are quickly put up and thier small fire dances in the night air.
The big question hanging in the air is how they can look through this big ol' swamp for one person and a Book? Is there any clues in what they've been told? Is there anyone who might know about the area really well who could help them?
Olyn has been quiet and aloof since discovering the murdered Th'ayaveen, and stares steadily at the fire.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday March 31st, 2005 9:42:03 PM
Theodore sits by the fire, looking into the flames as they crackle and pop. Macaw has flown off to look for food.
"How do we find Gratchien?" The young mage looks to the swamp and then at Vorelle and Zayne in turn, wondering if his friends could actually follow a trail through all that mess.
Theodore rubs at his eyes and yawns widely. The activity of the day is starting to overcome him.
Rose Friday April 1st, 2005 3:47:15 AM
Rose sits in the cart and goes through her bag of holding as she isn't sure what she grabbed when summoned by the prince and what is still at home since she didnt know that she would be leaving town. You can hear her muttering under her breath as she does her inventory.
"Great no change of clothes and I'm wearing my best...no bedding, although I hadnt removed the tent from last time...NO FOOD! Hey guys we forgot the food I hope whoever packed this cart remembered the tea."
thinking to herself "Oops, I didnt take my money to my parents place and I have a full purse. I had better put some of this in the bottom of my bag.
ooc: Hi Steve are you our dm now? What time do you normally post? are we ever going to get exp for the last bit when we were under the bakery or will we get it combined with this adventure into the swamp that we're doing now?
Dietrich Friday April 1st, 2005 6:21:20 AM
Although Dietrich doesn't like to start an expedition in such a haste, preferring to have sound preparations, the ex-soldier is quite happy to leave the claustophobious(?) underground city for a while.
During the trip, Dietrich recommends the usual march order, with the rangers scouting ahead and covering their back, and conducts the cart.
He also uses the long journey to ask Zayne again about his findings. Perhaps they can get some cue.
In the evening, he suggests to have a small council to plan their further actions. The warrior listens to his friends, smiling at Rose's worries about her ingredients, and trys to remember what they know so far: - The Prince's "connection" says the book is in the swamps. - There was the note in Gratchien's room for an "en", probably Th'Ayvannen, to meet there and we found him dead in a secret chamber - An unidentified dead elf who gave us a weird dream - Lots of Marteus signs - Signs of heavy dark magic in Gratchien's room
Finally, before people fall to sleep, Dietrich suggest to have the watches in two, always with someone with nightvision or skills, such as: Rose and Berlon, Him and Zayne, Olyn and Vorelle, Vauhwyt and Theo (so spellcasters can rest)
DM Brent - FYI Friday April 1st, 2005 8:02:22 AM
{Rose - you just have two DMs. We are coDMing. It was decided to pair up newer DMs to work together. SteveK is posting through a portion of the adventure and we are in contact via email.}
Vorelle d20+7=9 Friday April 1st, 2005 9:05:46 AM
As they travel during the day, Vorelle scans the road ahead of them, looking for any signs of recent travel and trying to pick up the trail of their quarry. She is distracted by recent events, though, and has trouble concentrating [Search 9].
Berlon Friday April 1st, 2005 1:35:56 PM
Berlon mutters a story to no one in particular.
"If you continue another half day's journey past the swamp, you reach my village, if you know how to find it. One day a scavenger of a group of foul goblins that live on the fringes of this very swamp found the entrance to the village. A long, bloody series of goblin invasions followed, until the day the evil creatures realized they could not break the Will Of Alemi. This swamp is responsible for much death. My village considers it to be an evil place."
If anyone requires healing, Berlon has most of his spells available, and will heal whoever needs it. He will take his watch with Rose and go through his rituals, including spells.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Friday April 1st, 2005 1:58:21 PM
Vauhwyt enjoys the fresh air and the walk. Her tail it tall and her step is high. She pounces on things she sees on the side of the pathway -- a mouse (she misses), a leaf, a flower (she tries to put it in Mookie's feathers, until he flies away squawking).
At night, she agrees with Theo. Time for some sleep. She agrees with Dietrich's watches. She asks Vorelle if she sees any tracks.
Then she hears Berlon's sad tale. Like a heavy curtain cuts off light, so the cleric's story cuts off her happy demeanor. Her face darkens into a scowl. Her claws flex and dig deep wounds in the soil. Her tail lashes back and forth like a whip.
"I hate goblins."
DM SteveK Friday April 1st, 2005 2:26:40 PM
[OOC: I'm co-DMing with Brent. I'll ask about the last experience points. Hope you have fun!]
Dietrich and Rose are concerned about rushing off without preparation, but discover that the cart is well packed with provisions, if not every type of spice that Rose most likes.
The others tell stories of their lives and speculate on how to find the Book in the middle of such a large swamp.
As the party settles down to their nightly routines, the Macaw returns and is acting a little edgy; there is something out there. What it is becomes apparent soon enough, coming out of the darkness; a wild looking middle aged lady. Perched on her shoulder is a large ugly vulture, busily preening a ginger-coloured, bone-laced dreadlock. A slightly unwashed scent is about her as the vulture hops off her shoulder and the witch settles down beside the fire as if you already invited her. "A strange song of power in the swamps has called to me, and surprise, surprise! Here you all are!" Her raggedly clad arms open as if joining all of the heroes in on her comment. "And such a strange power as well. Look! Look in the flames, and see what is happening."
Whoever follows the witch's suggestion and looks at the flames of the failing campfire, sees the fire flicker, and then grow stronger but doesn't put off any more heat. Watching, the others see movement within the flames and then a scene like an old time cinema flickers out at the heroes from Dirt City.
It is a tavern or bar, familiar to some as one they have seen in their dreams. It is empty now except for one skinny human, polishing the brasswork on the bar. Then a song comes out of the fire. It is faint at first, the sound of singing, and then it grows in intensity.
The sunshine of your smile will soon be here, Your golden voice will once again fill the air, Rejoice inhabitants of field and stream, The Fairy King will no longer be a dream!
A young bard emerges from the green flames of the large fireplace and looks around. His fine features and angled eyes leave no doubt of his lineage.
"Lore and stories are no longer yarns told by a tall-tale spinner! It is time for a meeting to plan the awakening of the Sleeping-One!" and taking up a silver flute, he begins to play.
The green flames of the tavern fireplaces sparkle and crackle as the dream-shapes of them with a claim to elfish blood are compelled to attend this most important gathering.
The flames suddenly turn green and Olyn is pulled into the fire and disappears, only to be seen coming out of the fireplace of the Giggling Ghost!
Theodore and Macaw Friday April 1st, 2005 4:20:58 PM
Macaw lands lightly on Theodore's head, the mage wincing as the bird steps about to make himself comfortable. Seeing the witch and vulture coming from the mist, he thinks back to another duo named Priscilla and Warwick they had met only a few months ago. He squints his eyes to peer into the gloom, wondering it they are those same friends from before.
As the witch tells her tale, Theodore stares into the fire, his eyes growing bigger by the second. When Olyn is sucked into the fire, Theodore springs to his feet with a holler. Macaw flaps off with a startled caw. He bends close to the fire, feeling the heat against his face.
"Olyn!" he call out. "Olyn, can you hear me? Are you okay? What's happened to him?" he says this last part to the witch.
DM Steve [addendum] Saturday April 2nd, 2005 1:28:02 AM
As soon as the witch and vulture arrive, all who met her know her as Priscilla and Warrick.
Dietrich Sunday April 3rd, 2005 9:14:24 AM
Whilw the group is discussing, Dietrich listens to Berlon and sympathizes with the gnomes. He is satisfied to hear that they prevailed against the goblins.
Then Priscilla and Warwick suddenly appear and the warrior is more than surprised. Although strange, they are very welcomed and he stands up to greet them warmly. Dietrich watches the fire and when Olyn disappears, he joins in Theodore's questions.
But, despite all the confusion, he is glad to finally have someone to explain all the weird events of last and maybe help in finding Gratchien and the book.
Vorelle d20+7=21 d20+7=17 Sunday April 3rd, 2005 9:47:26 AM
Vorelle listens soberly to Berlon's tale, and gets to her feet as Priscilla and her strange familiar enter the camp. Vorelle doesn't entirely trust the witch, but understands that she is powerful, and powerful help may be just what they need now.
When the flames begin to leap, she resists their allure and instead concentrates on watching or listening for signs of danger to the camp.
[Spot 21, Listen 17]
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday April 4th, 2005 3:38:23 PM
As quick as a flash, the liontaur's black mood dissolves. She bounds up to Priscilla and Warrick, smiling broadly.
"Wowsy! It is good to see you, Priscilla! And you, too, Warwick! You're far from home, that's for surre! Are we just really lucky to meet you, or did you mean to seek us out?"
"Either way, it sure is good to see you!"
"Oh, and what happened to Olyn? Did you do that? Is he alright?"
Mookie yawns and says in a stage whisper, "Boss, take a chill pill! You're embaraskin' me!"
The small black raven nods at the big black vulture and says, "Hey."
Rose Tuesday April 5th, 2005 1:25:02 AM
Rose leaps down from where she was resting and runs to give Priscilla a hug. "Hi Priscilla, what are you doing here? Did you bring my any more recipies? She give Warwick a nice scratch on his head. When Olyn dissapears she looks at Priscilla Why did Olyn dissapear? I want him back! She says with some big tears in her eyes.
DM Steve Tuesday April 5th, 2005 4:08:17 PM
[OOC: While watching the fire, the heroes see the events as they unfold in the Giggling Ghost.]
Berlon's story makes not a few heroes think of the evil that lies in the swamps. It seems that Priscilla's presence helps brighten the fire. Vauhwyt and Rose's greetings especially makes the middle-aged woman smile around her dreadlocks.
"You", she begins "seem to be the crux of powerful spirits. They flit around you like dancers, and I had to find out why." Warrick hops along the ground and keeps away from the fire; his greasy feathers would make excellent kindling. "Ask away, and the old bag of bones will wow you with her knowledge", the bird says sarcastically.
Priscilla blinks but seems not altogether surprised at the disappearance of Olyn. "But he is not altogether gone, is he?", she asks.
Vorelle (Spot DC 20) sees a ghostly green Olyn still staring intently at the fire. Wisps of green mist connect the ghostly Olyn with the fire. In fact, careful observation reveals Olyn sitting among the many elves in the Giggling Ghost that everyone is watching in the fire.
"Ask", Priscilla says again, "and I will tell what I may."
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday April 5th, 2005 6:21:57 PM
Macaw has concealed himself in a tree somewhere, still anxious around Warrick the vulture. Theodore doesn't seem to notice.
When Priscilla points out the ghost of Olyn, Theodore calms a bit. "Then what is going on? Does this have some sort of connection with the dream we all had?"
Berlon Tuesday April 5th, 2005 7:46:14 PM
"I have a question..."
"Being new to... *that place*... I don't really know anything about the workings of the city. Who is this prince, and why does he send you all on these missions? He seems overbearing to me..."
Vorelle d20+7=8 d20+7=8 Tuesday April 5th, 2005 7:55:25 PM
Restless for some reason, Vorelle paces around the ring of firelight. She tries to keep an eye and an ear out for trouble, but the weird Olyn-ghost is somewhat distracting.
[Spot 8, Listen 8. Rolled 2 1s in a row!]
Dietrich Wednesday April 6th, 2005 11:24:32 AM
Dietrich is slowly getting used to all the crazy magic constantly happening around, with people being possed, dreams, unholy symbols etc., that he isn't so disturbed by Olyn' ghost and the events in the fire.
The warrior sits down again to listen to Priscilla's explanations.
To Berlon he says: "The Prince is the highest authority in Dirt City, though there are many other powerful groups and individuals. We have worked for him before and managed to avoid some evil and he rewarded us well. But he's certainly no Saint, as all men of power, and better not to be crossed. In my opinion we and the city were better off with him than without, as he holds the city from the brink of civil war and protects it against far worse evil than his police and informers. That is, at least before he got this "connection" with the evil book."
Dietrich also asks the witch: "Does this all have something to do with the sudden possessions we've seen at Wardd's temple, or are these independent events?"
DM SteveK Wednesday April 6th, 2005 3:16:22 PM
As Vorelle stalks around the camp and Berlon finds out more about the city and people he has joined, the others stare at the fire and watch as if a play unfolds.
Theodore and Deitrich both ask Priscilla about the Giggling Ghost and possible connections with what they have seen. Once they explain the dream and possessions to Priscilla, she nods to herself.
As she talks Priscilla sets up her cauldron and Warrick fetches water for the boil. "I think this meeting of the elves has a direct connection to this dream of yours as well as the divinations. The elves in the fire have spoken of the number three. Isn't that significant to the dream and the possessed children?" Priscilla doesn't wait for an answer, but looks back to the fire.
"It seems the Elves seek to bring into the Wold a slumbering King of power who may bring peace and harmony." Priscilla is in a considering mood, not seemingly caught up in the elvish euphoria nor suspicious of possible consequences. "I have seen Blackbird Forest stirring, the trees standing taller, the thickets heavy with leaf and berry. And there seems to be less disappearances, too. Altogether a very happy occasion."
Warrick perches on the wagon provided by the Prince. "And look at this melon!", he squawks. "It is huge!" And truly, the fruit and vegetables provided by Dirt City are larger and juicier than anyone remembers before.
"Yet you aren't worried about fruit", continues the witch, "but the Book you had once recovered from the living island on Blackbird Lake."
Priscilla straightens her head and looks directly at Deitrich. "You may be surprised that the Book is not far away. No, I don't know exactly where it is; something is hindering my location spells. However, if you have some material from this Graitchen fellow, I think I can whip something up." The witch and vulture share a look full of confidence.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday April 6th, 2005 4:46:06 PM
Theodore retrieves the list of items he had found hidden within one of Gratchien's tomes and hands it to the three-fingered Priscilla. "Will this do?"
The orange glow from the fire dances on Theodore's face, heightening the definite curiousity etched upon his features. "This man is very dangerous," he says, thinking back on the butchered Th'Ayvanen. "Do you know anything about the extent of his power, or whether he's being helped?"
Rose Thursday April 7th, 2005 12:34:44 AM
While listening to the conversation Rose goes over to the supplies and digs through them looking for some tea, bread, cheese, and any treats that might have been packed (cookies or cakes)
Dietrich Thursday April 7th, 2005 10:53:13 AM
Dietrich listens interested to the witch, but doesn't share her calm mood. Although there is an apparent move to strenghten good, the ex-soldiers sees to many signs of radical change and war in it to be at ease. He also remembers that the possessions told them to beware of the three and asks her who they are.
He doesn't really understand what she means by mentioning that the book is very near and hopes she can do something with Theo's help. It's not his field, but the warrior senses the powers involved.
Dietrich is happy that Rose is going to prepare some delicious food and he saviours some ot the melon in atecipation.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday April 7th, 2005 11:04:25 AM
[OOC: Sorry I missed a post.]
Vauhwyt jerks and turns away from the flames. "This elf-dream stuff and debate is over my head. Even if I wanted to wake a god, I wouldn't know how! Let the elves deal with it."
She sees Theo hand an item to the witch. "Theo, that was clever of you," says Vauhwyt.
"I for one am eager to head out after this book."
Berlon Thursday April 7th, 2005 1:00:19 PM
"Once we are finished with our business in these fens I will need to make a quick stop at my village. I won't be long and it won't add more than a day or two to our travelling. You are all welcome, but if you are unable to stop at my village I should arrive back in... back at my lab just a few days after your return."
BigTim aka Olyn Thursday April 7th, 2005 2:21:05 PM
(am moved and back online, will begin posting on monday)
Vorelle d20+7=12 d20+7=25 Thursday April 7th, 2005 2:24:17 PM
Inwardly, Vorelle acknowledges that she's way out of her league. She doesn't understand this Dream stuff, or the ghost Olyn, or this talk of threes. She doesn't understand anything about the Book, or the magic that Theo and Priscilla seem so eager to try. She doesn't even understand how to cook, or she'd help Rose.
With a sigh, she goes back to sentry duty. At least her eyes and ears still work.
[Spot 12, Listen 25]
DM Steve Thursday April 7th, 2005 3:19:34 PM
[OOC: Fantastic, BigTim, and congradulations on your move. Olyn is an observer to the Giggling Ghost convention; but I am sure he will be returned to the group over the weekend :)]
Rose finds all kinds of foods and the general run of spices in the wagon; it seems Jolath had it stocked well. The one thing she doesn't find is any sort of treat. It is strange that there is no sweets at all while everything else is so well stocked.
"I really don't know who the Three are", responds the witch to Deitrich while twirling a dreadlock in one hand, "from what you've told me, the Three may not even be people but any three things together."
Priscilla nods at Berlon's comment. Though not meant for her, she smiles in agreemnt, obviously thinking well of the gnome who knows his business. "The swamps are not all evil", she cautions, "There is a good tribe of gnolls that live away to the south, and many other creatures that are neither good nor evil."
Theodore provides a scrap of paper to Priscilla and she smiles in anticipation. "This should work nicely", she says as the cauldron bubbles merrily in what is obviously one of the witch's spells. In less time than one would suppose, the ragged woman stands back. A huge ladle is in her hand and she offers the cooling liquid to the group. "The first who tastes the potion will be able to know unerringly where this Graitchen is and the shortest route to get there." She pauses and looks at the heroes expectantly. "So who is the guide?"
Warrick perches on a nearby tree limb and looks on expectantly.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+1=8 Thursday April 7th, 2005 5:55:12 PM
Not noticing that Vorelle may be feeling a little down (Sense Motive 8), Vauhwyt immediately steps forward to volunteer her friend.
"Vorelle, that's right up your alley! You're the best of us by far in this terrain. Plus you have keen eyes and a good sense of direction. Me, I have to ask Mookie where the sun goes down!"
Mookie caws in laughter, and says, with exaggerated slowness, "le-eft ... we-est!"
==========
[OOC: Just to offer an obscure piece of alteriania, when I was in high school, I loved being the party mapper. But I always get east and west mixed up. So my brother would often say "Mike, le-eft ... we-est," and to this day I use that mnemonic. LOL!]
Theodore and Macaw Friday April 8th, 2005 9:25:22 AM
Theodore is pleased that he is able to help the group in finding Gratchien. When Vauhwyt offers Vorelle's services to lead the party, Theodore silently agrees that the taciturn ranger would be a good person for the job, but he refrains from putting any more pressure on his reluctant friend. Rather, he gives her an encouraging smile that assures her he will not think any less if she should decline or accept.
Dietrich Friday April 8th, 2005 9:46:00 AM
Dietrich eagerly awaits Rose's food and listens to Priscilla's information. It doesn't help a lot about the 'three', but he gets excited with the possibility of finding the book soon and taps Theo's shoulder appreciatevely.
The warrior reassures Berlon of his disposition to visit the village and is slightly shocked to hear about 'good' Gnolls (only this crazy witch to say this kind of thing...)
Dietrich definitely approves to have Vorelle as the guide and encourages her with his looks. "Yes, Vorelle is our guide in the wilderness and has shown her valour before. I agree with the proposal!"
Nevertheless, he still suggests the group rests first and goes after Gratchien in daylight.
DM Steve Saturday April 9th, 2005 2:27:44 AM
With Vauhwyt, Theodore, and Dietrich, the three-fingered witch also looks expectantly at Vorelle prowling around the campsite and staring into the darkness. Warrick on the other hand hears the other comment by the doughty fighter.
"If she drinks now," comes the raspy voice, "when will the spell end?"
This brings up Priscilla's head in surprise. "Why, umm.... no more than a couple of hours, I'm sure. And I see what you mean." The witch puts a cover on her cauldron with a clang. "This can simmer to morning. I don't see any harm in you sweetlings getting a night's rest before you track down your foe."
The wild witch speaks no more, but settles back and quickly begins snoring like a conclave of frogs during mating season. The vulture gives the others a pained look and makes to cover his ears with his wings in sympathy. He then flies to a higher branch to try and sleep as well.
The unattended cauldron simmers merrily in the fire.
Theodore and Macaw Sunday April 10th, 2005 1:43:35 PM
Theodore takes his cue from Priscilla and curls up under a blanket, using his backpack as a pillow. He quickly falls asleep as well, dreaming of tomorrow's adventure.
Macaw roosts in the tree he has taken, keeping a safe distance from the vulture.
Vorelle d20+7=8 d20+7=23 Sunday April 10th, 2005 4:49:15 PM
Bouyed by her friends' confidence in her, Vorelle reaches for the spoon, but stops when the decision is made to try in the morning. She unpacks her bedroll and lays it out. Leaving it there for the moment, she moves over to Dietrich. "Wh-wh-which w-w-watch sh-should I t-t-ake?" she asks him, comfortable now with having him make the strategeic decisions for the group.
She will take whichever watch he suggests, and stay as alert as she can. [Spot 8, Listen 23]
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday April 11th, 2005 6:34:00 AM
Vauhwyt also volunteers for a watch. In the morning, she is ready to go.
Dietrich d20=10 d20+4=12 d20+2=8 Monday April 11th, 2005 7:16:17 AM
Dietrich is quite tired from the long march and is happy to get some hours sleep before the hunt. He takes his gear off and prepares to lay down after having dinner when Vorelle asks him about the watches.
The suggestion is: Rose and Berlon, Him and Zayne, Him/Vauhwyt (now that Olyn is away) and Vorelle, Vauhwyt and Theo.
Fortunatelly he is so tired and used to snoring comrades in arms that Priscilla's 'concert' doesn't bother his rest. When awakened for the watch, the warrior puts his full equipment on and leaves the fire to observe his surroundings from the shade. Hide 10, Spot 12, listen 8
DM Steve Monday April 11th, 2005 1:43:05 PM
The night passes without incident, though Vauhwyt and Theodore notice that when they are woken for watch that Olyn is once again among the living and sleeping peacefully where the misty Olyn had been sitting.
The morning dawns red over the swamps, morning ministrations are conducted, and breakfast completed. Priscilla checks her cauldron and nods, satisfied that the potion is still potent.
"All right, Vorelle, over the lips and through the gums..."
Whoever first sips the potion ...Highlight to display spoiler: { The brew is watery and has an aftertaste of willowbark. Then, your awareness expands and lifts, clearly seeing a path through the swampy hillocks and trees to a ramshackle hut on stilts. From the place you are standing, you can see you need to wind your way west-south-west skirting bogs until you get to a half-submerged punt. On the far side of a creek, your minds-eye follows gnarled cyprus until you come to a tremendous thicket of mulberry bushes. On the far side of the thicket is the stilted hut with three skiffs tied up on a rotted dock. }
Olyn Monday April 11th, 2005 2:24:43 PM
/ooc i see nothing between the brackets. dont know if there is suppose to
sitting up Olyn rubs the sleep from his eyes, then starts gathering his pack.
( Cayzle, can you email me a cliff note version on everything i should know. im too lazy to read everything...please )
Berlon Monday April 11th, 2005 6:26:20 PM
"When the swamp dawns red like this, the elders of my village say it is the Shamen of the Swamp trying to animate their fallen comrades.
Berlon performs his morning devotions and memorizes his usual spells.
"Take care, everyone, for this swamp can be very treacherous..."
(ooc: I don't know if anyone else ever got anything on it, but I never received any info on xp or hero points from the last segment)
Vorelle Monday April 11th, 2005 6:40:16 PM
Vorelle wrinkles her nose and takes a deep breath in anticipation, but actually the concoction doesn't taste all that bad. Medicinal, certainly, but not entirely unpleasant.
After a moment, she says, "I s-s-s-ee a h-h-house. On s-s-stilts. Th-th-that way." She points west-southwest, then looks around to see if her companions are ready to depart.
Theodore and Macaw d20+4=19 d20+4=6 Monday April 11th, 2005 6:57:57 PM
After breaking his fast, Theodore shoulders into his backpack, finally starting to get used to these trips into the wild. He stifles a yawn as he waits for the group to move out.
Macaw glides overhead, leading the group, searching for danger.
(Macaw listen = 19, spot = 6)
OOC Cayzle's Summary of Recent Events Monday April 11th, 2005 9:51:29 PM
[I'm putting this on the board so that if I miss something important, someone else can chime in. Hope that's okay.]
[DM Steve: sounds like a good summation. OK by me :)]
The Prince of Dirt City asked the party for help. He evidently read too much of the Evil Book we brought him, and now he has an "attachment" to it. What's worse, someone stole it, so the Prince asked us to fetch it. I guess he figures that if we found it one time, we can find it again. Through his "connection," he told us it was in this swamp.
Before we went to the swamp, we did some poking around in the Palace. We found a couple of the Prince's men dead, especially They'vanan (I'm mis-spelling his name), the Prince's right hand man, who we had dealt with in the past. There were hints of evil rituals and blood sacrifice, too, and an elf was killed. We did not have time to really check that out.
So we came to the swamp, where good fortune led us to Priscilla the Witch, our friend from Blackbird Lake.
The following is for DMs and Olyn only: Please Highlight to display spoiler: {Olyn's spirit was summoned to the Giggling Ghost, along with every being with elf blood in the Wold. These elves discussed a proposal to awaken a Sleeper, the Fae King. Some said it was a good idea; others said not. Nothing was decided ... yet. (DM Steve: Olyn knows that in the GG, many elves and adventurers spoke of other things happening in threes, and this seemed significant to the discussion on whether to wake the Sleeper at the eclipse of the sun by both moons.}
Priscilla is helping us find the book. She gave a potion to Vorelle, who is now leading us to it.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday April 11th, 2005 9:53:48 PM
The liontaur and her familiar are ready to go. But first, a word with the witch.
"Are you coming with us, Priscilla? It would be a shame to say good-bye again so soon. Do you have any advice for us?"
Dietrich Tuesday April 12th, 2005 8:25:53 AM
Dietrich wakes up and is glad to see Olyn again in full flesh and blood. He readies his gear, eats, makes a short prayer to Domi and takes care of the ponies before departing.
The warrior listnes to Vorelle and Vauhwyt and than reminds everyone of the dangers involved in the adventure:
"This Gratchien seems to control very strong magic and managed, alone or with others, to kill Th'Ayvannen, so we really can't afford to underestimate him. I'd say we follow Vorelle's lead till the house and then elaborate a thorough plan."
ooc: Taking the hint from Berlon, I'd also like to know about the treasure (jewels) found with the BAzok. We appraised it, but didn't share the loot.
DM Steve Tuesday April 12th, 2005 4:53:23 PM
Potion is sipped, warnings given, and preparations made. The heroes then follow Vorelle into the swamps.
Priscilla stays where she is. "Follow you hotheads?", she asks with her usual pointedness, "not hardly. There is a ley line around here somewhere and I've got to track it down. Yoo-hoo! Line!" Her ragged cloak flutters as she moves around the site, picking up rocks, looking around trees.
Warrick the vulture keeps his perch and stares menacingly at the ravens. "Too boney", is his comment about Macaw. "Not the breakfast for a once world famous wizard."
Vorelle quickly takes the heroes into the swamp, guiding along game trails that skirt the worst of the wet. Vegetation is growing at an unprecedented rate while the party moves. During one rest stop, Rose has to untangle herself from a vine that had started to entwine around her ankle. No melevolent intelligence is detected, only a tremendous growth spurt.
Within an hour, Vorelle stops. In front of her is a sluggish river, a half submerged flat bottomed boat tied up to a fallen log nearby. From the potion she drank, Vorelle knows she needs to get to the other side of the 30 foot wide waterway.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday April 12th, 2005 7:19:28 PM
Macaw shrieks as he retreats from the overbearing look of the vulture.
Theodore finds the the vegatative growth spurt fascinating, and comments often and extensively on the unique occurence. He often has to be ushered forward after stopping to examine a particular area that has caught his interest.
When the group find themselves at the river, Theodore looks the boat over. "I wonder who left this here."
Vorelle d20+7=20 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 2:22:15 AM
Unhappily, Vorelle eyes the murky, slow-moving water. She hates boats.
"W-w-w-we n-n-need to c-c-cross," she informs her friends. Dismissing the boat as unseaworthy (or un-river-worthy), she begins looking around for another way to get across.
[Spot or Search of 20]
Vauhwyt (Enlarge Person) and Mookie d20+14=22 d20+3=13 d20+3=8 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 7:43:43 AM
Vauhwyt looks at the water, like Vorelle, with trepidation. "I hate getting wet," she says.
"Yeah," adds Mookie, "And Boss, I think you're too fat for that little boat."
"Thanks a lot, Mookie," Vauhwyt answers.
She eyes the gap. She casts a spell, and a blood-red sigul appears on her forehead (Enlarge Person). She grows to twice normal size, and then takes a running leap at the water.
But she falls short by 8 feet! [Jump check 22] She splashes into the water, and tries to swim as best she can to the far side. With any luck, the water is not over her head, since she is now 12 feet tall and 20 feet long. She struggles to get up out of the water. [Untrained swim 13, climb 8.]
Dietrich d20+4=21 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 10:00:58 AM
Dietrich says farewell to the witch and the vulture and marches after Vorelle with grim determination. He wonders at the overgrown green stuff, but doesn't really care about it.
When the party reaches the river, he first looks around for hidden dangers. Spot 21
He is just going to suggest something when he sees the giant liontaur jumping into the water! The warrior admires the jump and is sure Vauhwyt will make it to the other side without problems.
Dietrich takes some rope and throws one end to Vahwyt when she reaches it. "Bind it somewhere or hold it fast! It will help us others cross!", he shouts and binds his end to the cart.
Before he prepares to cross though, Dietrich lets his rucksack with the cart, taking only his martial equippment with him.
Good-bye Dave & Lynn Beck - DM Donna Wednesday April 13th, 2005 2:16:17 PM
The hour of silence in memory of former Woldian players Dave and Lynn Beck is over now. Posting may resume. Thank you and let's all hope for the best for young Alex Beck.
DM Steve Wednesday April 13th, 2005 4:35:51 PM
While the heroes follow Vorelle, Dietrich keeps a sharp eye out for anything untoward. He is very satisfied the only dangerous things in the swamp right now are themselves.
Several people come up with ways to cross the river, but the great red liontaur puts action to words and vaults the sluggish water. Her hindquarters don't quite make it and give all a good drenching from the terrific splash. It also demonstrates that a wet liontaur has a particular wet/shaggy smell, one that everyone besides Berlon is familiar with.
Vauhwyt finds that the river no more than eight feet deep and that at 20 feet long, she can easily be the bridge for the others across the water. She can fasten the rope Dietrich heaves to her so the others can hold on the rope while walking across the back of the VERY large wemic.
As the heroes cross, each make a Spot check DC 12 to read the following Highlight to display spoiler: {there seems to be some sort of animal or animals in the water that try and come at the liontaur/bridge, but they are blocked by two faintly glowing images that look like simple but strangely dressed human man and woman. Once the last hero is across, the images wave in farewell and disappear }
Olyn d20+3=13 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 6:22:16 PM
crosses the river over Vauhwyt, and gives her head a nice pat as he does so.
Theodore and Macaw d20+4=12 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 6:57:15 PM
Theodore hurries across the river, catching a glimpse of the phantoms and strange animals. Once on the other side, the young mage points the critters out to Vorelle.
"What are those? Something we need to worry about?"
Berlon d20+3=13 Wednesday April 13th, 2005 7:29:28 PM
Berlon hurrily crosses the makeshift bridge, and audibly gasps at what he sees out of the corner of his eye. (Spot check 13)
"Don't be embarrassed by the smell. This swamp makes everything it touches just a little bit fouler. You should smell the undead the swamp shamen used to summon against us. The stench would kill you by itself...."
Rose d20+6=10 d20+5=9 Thursday April 14th, 2005 1:20:18 AM
Rose does the cooking, althogh she may grumble a bit if in addition to no treats there is no tea and either sugar or honey. Breakfast is the usual porridge and toast (unless there's no sugar or honey, porridge with out sweetener YUCK, if there's no sugar or honey breakfast is bread and cheese.) Rose takes her watch with out much complaining, although there is the usual argument over dishes (I forgot which of the guys always tries to get out of dishes:)
listen: 10 spot: 9
ooc: sorry for not posting the last few days, my dad is in town and I've been busy.
Vorelle d20+7=19 Thursday April 14th, 2005 2:25:01 AM
Walk across on her friend's back? It seems an odd idea, but Vauhwyt doesn't appear to be in any pain or difficulty as the others cross, so Vorelle cautiously makes the attempt.
She glances down to where Theo is pointing, and sees the odd creatures, and the two glowing figures that come to the group's defense [Spot 19]. For some reason, she is reminded of the figure of the holy warrior in the strange projection.
"I-I d-d-d-don't kn-know," she replies to Theo's question.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+1=18 Thursday April 14th, 2005 9:53:01 AM
Vauhwyt laughs. "Hop on, everybody! Just watch those boots!"
She is happy to serve a a bridge/ferry.
Then she notices the phantoms that seem to be protecting her [spot 18]. For some reason, they make her sad.
After everyone has crossed, Vauhwyt quietly casts her prestidigitation spell. Following the theme of all her magic, the water and smell on her changes to a blood red color and a sharp coppery tang, then both disappear, leaving the wemic dry and fresh-smelling.
Vauhwyt encourages Vorelle to lead on while the magic potion of guidance lasts.
[Spells used: Enlarge Person, Prestidigitation]
DM Steve Thursday April 14th, 2005 11:32:45 AM
Safe and sound on the other side of the sluggish river, the heroes continue on further into the swamps. The magical potion continues to unerringly lead Vorelle towards the house-on-stilts.
After almost an hour, the trail becomes very narrow. A narrow strip of springy turf lies through a swampy bog which produces slow bubbles from some underground swamp gas. The sulfuric smell is abrasive on the nose, and each of the heroes hear a shriek as a small frog is sucked into the mud never to emerge.
Several people may have questioning glances to Vorelle, but the magic is still on her and the ranger is certain this is absolutely the safest, fastest way to the hut with stilts.
One person may walk on the spongy turf at a time. Each person has to make a Reflex Save DC 10 to avoid falling into the sucking swamp.
Berlon d20+2=21 Thursday April 14th, 2005 12:33:55 PM
Berlon frowns, as he's not the most coordinated gnome around. "I really hate this swamp...' he mutters. He makes a quick prayer to Alemi that he not fall victim to this nasty place.
(Cast Guidance, +1 next save, using now)
He braces himself, then makes the crossing, with surprising ease. (Reflex Save 21)
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+5=22 Thursday April 14th, 2005 1:50:28 PM
Mookie simply flies overhead.
Vauhwyt (now back to normal size), picks her way delicately across with ease (Reflex save 22]. She carries with her the rope, if it is long enough, so that others making the passage can grab on to it if they slip. The liontaur takes a firm grip on her end.
[Spells used: 1 first, 1 zero]
Mookie (illegal second post) Thursday April 14th, 2005 4:20:27 PM
The black raven caws in loud laughter!
"Boss! Get a hold of yourself! No, not that way! Here!"
The bird flies a rope to Vauhwyt so she can take a firm grip on the end of the rope, rather than taking a firm grip on her end!
[OOC: Thanks Kathy! You made me laugh!]
Vorelle d20+6=24 Thursday April 14th, 2005 6:04:03 PM
Vorelle waits her turn, the walks calmly across the treacherous bog as if she were just out for a stroll [Reflex 24].
Once safely on the other side, she turns and watches the others cross, ready to go to the aid of anybody who topples in.
Theodore and Macaw d20+2=7 Thursday April 14th, 2005 6:34:48 PM
Theodore seems not to notice his immediate surroundings as he follows the group. Sure enough, in typical Theodore fashion, he stumbles over the hem of his trousers and falls flailing into the swamp.
Overhead, Macaw begins to crow frantically.
Olyn d20+6=8 Thursday April 14th, 2005 11:54:16 PM
when Theo lands in the muck and sits up, spitting out some of the swamp water, he looks up tot he rest of the group just in time to see Olyn land with a BIG splash beside him.
Rose d20+6=14 Friday April 15th, 2005 3:37:53 AM
Rose hates it when she has to get out of the cart and walk in the muck. "Great" She mumbles under her breath. "Now I'm going to drown in mud...At least I'll be able to get clean later on. The short little halfling keeps yelling "Wait for me, you know I cant walk as fast as you guys can." When ever she falls behind.
ooc: what did we do with the cart did we leave it at the edge of the stream, did we somehow get it across the stream and through the muck?
Dietrich d20+4=23 d20+3=13 d20+5=19 Friday April 15th, 2005 7:20:13 AM
Dietrich keeps marching after Vorelle and looking for trouble. He manages to move through the narrow gap without problems (reflex 23) and will help to get his friends out of the swamp.
If they get the rope, Dietrich helps pulling (strenght test 13). Despite the comic side to it, the warrior doesn't smile at the scene, too concerned about dangers.
ooc: I was going to ask about the cart too. If we let it there, Dietrich binds the ponies, so they don't run away. If we got it through the river, the fighter guides the beasts. Handle animal 19.
DM SteveK Friday April 15th, 2005 12:12:46 PM
OOC: Sorry for confusion, I assumed from no one bringing the cart over and with Deitrich's post that the heroes left the cart on the near side of the water obstacle and only took thier combat/exploration gear. The heroes don't have the cart with them to cross the mucky bog.]
Dietrich hobbles the ponies before crossing the water on Vauhwyt's back. Vorelle instintively knows the hut is no more than a couple hours walk; the ponies should be safe until the heroes can come back for them.
Theodore and Olyn fall into the mud and immediately starts to sink. Theodore's luck is solid... all bad. Landing on his rump, he is already mostly under the mud, with only head and shoulders showing. Olyn fares better and manages to get his legs under him, so he is only as deep as his waist. Yet he can feel no end to the mud and knows that the swamp is pulling him downward.
Vorelle, Vauhwyt, and Deitrich are ready to help their trapped friends. A mere AC 10 to toss a rope to them. As long as Theodore and Olyn hold on a rope they will sink no further. Another DC 10 strength check will be required to pull them out.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+2=14 d20+2=4 Friday April 15th, 2005 1:35:44 PM
Vauhwyt tosses the rope to her friends, while holding onto the other end of the rope. Her aim is true (hits AC14). She asks for help pulling them out. Then she hauls on the rope. (Str check 4 is not doing much!)
Vorelle d20+1=4 Friday April 15th, 2005 3:33:13 PM
Vorelle grabs the rope and tries to pull, but strength has never been her most noteworthy feature.
[Also got a 4!]
Berlon Friday April 15th, 2005 8:27:26 PM
Berlon quickly turns around as he hears one splash after another. After two failed attempts are made to haul Olyn and Theodore out, he tries to help prevent a third.
Assuming he can get close to Dietrich, he casts Bull's Strength on Dietrich (+4 str, 3 rounds), confident Dietrich will be able to lug both out of the mire.
If he can also take a move action, Berlon will get closer to try to help if he can.
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