DM Kathy Thursday June 16th, 2005 3:00:18 AM
You hand the child to his aunt, who grips the little tyke so fiercely that you fear for his breathing. Judging from the volume of his howls, though, he can breathe just fine.
You notice that he puts both arms around the woman's neck and clings hard, something that he hadn't done with Mira. You tentatively decide that the child probably knows this woman, which means she was probably telling the truth about being his aunt.
You have other things to worry about, though, so you leave that street and head for another. It doesn't take you long to find the next scene of carnage, and this one makes the one you just left look tame by comparison.
You find yourselves in an odd little three-sided square. The buildings that surround it look as if they may once have been sturdy and prosperous, but that was before the vines went to work on them. Now they seem to be crumbling before your very eyes.
In the square itself, bodies are littered all around, each in a spreading pool of dark red blood. The square itself is largely deserted, but there is a knot of survivors, all of whom have climbed to a percarious perch atop a tumbledown wall. There really isn't enough room for all of them up there, and they are packed so tightly that every time one person moves, the others are thrown off balance.
And move they must, because they're still too close for comfort to the horse-sized wolf that is snapping at any foot or ankle or piece of clothing that comes near enough. Even though these attacks miss, the person being snapped at inevitably flinches back, which inevitably causes the rest of the group to scream and curse and struggle to keep their balance. The odds of the whole lot of them tumbling into the street are better than you'd like.
The bodies are piled thickest in that part of the square, suggesting that there were once even more people squeezed atop that wall. The blood gleams wet on the cobbles. [Anybody approaching the wolf needs to make a DC 10 balance check or slip on the blood.]
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+7=21 d6+3=7 d20+3=15 Thursday June 16th, 2005 5:41:22 AM
Evan puts any thoughts concerning Mira's mothering abilities to the side for the moment as this is not the time to get distracted. He trots down the road with the others until spotting the horse sized wolf. Breaking into a sprint, he quickly closes with the wolf. As he approaches, he flings one of his axes, hoping to take it's attention away from those unable to defend themselves. (axe-21, dam-7. balance-15)
Arm (ac 13, hp 13/13) d20=18 d20+4=18 d8+2=3 Thursday June 16th, 2005 6:07:41 AM
Following up Evan's attack, Arm approaches the beast and swings at it. Even though he manages to maintain his footing, it's just slippery enough to cause him to once again not have the intended effect (balance: 18, attk: 18, dmg 3).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d10+2=9 Thursday June 16th, 2005 6:51:49 AM
Kadaz approaches the wolf carefully, moving slowly to avoid slipping in the blood. Despite his best efforts, however, he loses his balance and lands in the gory pool.
Uriel {AC:18 HP:43/43 Blessed Aura of Courage} d20+2=15 d20+2=22 d20+5=20 2d6(4+4)+5=13 d20+11=25 2d6(5+6)+7=18 Thursday June 16th, 2005 7:23:45 AM
Seeing the size of the creature, Uriel pulls his greatsword, leaving his shield behind. He tries to sense evil from the creature as he approaches it. (Reflex:15) If he can melee it this round he will.
{With Power Attack(-3), Uriel Hits AC:20 Dmg:13 If evil Uriel will smite evil instead of power attack AC:25 Dmg:18}
Shadow d20+6=18 d6+1=5 d20+2=20 d20+2=19 Thursday June 16th, 2005 9:19:51 AM
Shadow will not hesitate at the carnage he sees and will let fly with an arrow at the large wolf (To hit=18 dmg=5). Knowing that will probably be his only shot because of the rest of the group rushing into the frey, Shadow will look around to make sure there are not any other threats to the group. (Spot=20 Listen=19)
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) Thursday June 16th, 2005 9:25:14 PM
Mira stops in front of the carnage and casts a protective spell upon herself.
DM Sanity Info: Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile#, Burning Hands, Mage Armor##
DM Kathy d20+11=16 d8+10=12 d20+7=17 Friday June 17th, 2005 3:40:50 AM
Evan approaches the wolf and flings an axe. It strikes a solid blow, but the massive creature seems barely fazed by the attack.
Arm walks right up to the creature, easily able to keep his balance on the uncertain footing. His weaker blow also lands.
Kadaz's boots skid on the slick surface, but he does not quite fall. [Make another Balance check next turn if you want to continue approaching the critter.]
Uriel draws his greatsword as he approaches, then stretches out toward the big wolf with his inner eye. Nothing about the creature detects as evil. [Detecting is a standard action, so you can't also attack. You can save those numbers for next round, though, if you want.]
Shadow hits the wolf with an arrow, and Mira casts a protective spell. Conner and Wilfire seem momentarily unable to act.
The wolf swings its great head around and snaps at Arm. Powerful jaws close on the bard's leg, ripping at flesh and sinew. [12 points damage] Then the wolf braces and pulls, trying to pull Arm off balance. [Trip check 17. Arm, roll a d20 and add your Strength or Dexterity bonus (your choice). If it's under 17, you are tripped.]
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+7=26 d8+3=5 Friday June 17th, 2005 5:38:26 AM
Evan palms his second axe, while striking out at the wolf with his sword in an attempt to gain it's attention. (sword-26, dam-5)
Arm ac 13, hp 1/13 d20+1=20 d20+4=18 d8+2=8 Friday June 17th, 2005 6:06:42 AM
Gritting his teeth from the near fatal blow, Arm still manages to maintain his upright position (trip=20). Thrusting forward with his sword he connects more solidly this time, but while he does he hopes his friends can help dispatch this creature soon, as he fears he is not long for this Wold otherwise. (attk: 18, dmg: 8)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+2=5 Friday June 17th, 2005 6:24:41 AM
Kadaz tries to catch his balance, arms windmilling, but he fails and falls to the ground, sending up splashes of blood. He immediately starts to roll away from the wolf, towards a place where he can stand up safely.
Shadow d20+6=22 d6+2=6 Friday June 17th, 2005 9:30:28 AM
Shadow releases another arrrow at the great wolf, hoping the group can finish it off right now because of Arm. (to hit=22 dmg=6)
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] Blessed d20+1=17 d20+7=21 d20+5=12 d8+3=7 Friday June 17th, 2005 11:59:29 AM
The fighter watches for an opening to wade into combat, and finds it when the wolf graps his companion [Balance=17]. Conner slashes at the wolf with his sword [Hit AC=21 for 7 HP] and tries to bash at the creature with his spiked shield in an effort to inflict even more damage.[Hit AC=12]. "Try to surround it!" he calls out to his companions.
Uriel Sunday June 19th, 2005 6:53:38 PM
{Ok - Just use the rolls from the last post for my attack on the wolf.}
"Right Conner, lets try to get the flanking attacks in," Uriel says.
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) 2d4(2+4)+2=8 Sunday June 19th, 2005 9:08:12 PM
Mira keeps her distance from the beast, and shoots a missile of magical energy in its direction. (8 pts. dmg.)
DM Sanity Info: Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile##, Burning Hands, Mage Armor##
DM Kathy d20+11=13 Monday June 20th, 2005 12:46:39 AM
Evan pulls another axe, then steps up and attacks the wolf with his sword, doing more damage.
Arm manages to keep his feet and counters with a strong thrust from his rapier. The wolf yelps in pain.
Kadaz's feet skid out from under him and he hits the ground hard. As he rolls away, the wolf snaps at him (Attack of Opportunity), but misses.
Shadow's arrow strikes home, then Conner strides up and slashes the creature with his sword. The wolf is looking pretty well torn up by the time Uriel gets there, so it comes as no great surprise when the paladin's mighty blow finishes it off. The great beast falls to the cobbles, its blood mixing with the blood of its victims.
[Mira would not have cast her Magic Missile, so don't scratch that one off just yet.]
Atop the wall, the townsfolk huddle unmoving, as if afraid to believe the evidence of their own eyes. "Is it...is it dead?" someone finally asks.
In the distance, you still hear the howl of wolves.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+6=13 Monday June 20th, 2005 5:37:43 AM
Evan takes a moment to glance up at the townspeople on the wal, but obviously remains silent. He then scans the area, listening for the next closest group of wolves and takes off, leaving the townspeople to get themselves down off the wall. (listen-13)
Arm ac 13, hp 1/13 Monday June 20th, 2005 5:49:49 AM
Stabbing his sword into the ground for something to hold on to, Arm pulls himself away from the carcass of the wolf. He looks around plaintively for either Uriel or Wilf to heal him so that they may continue on their way, not sure how long he'll be able to remain upright.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Monday June 20th, 2005 6:35:28 AM
The dwarf manages to stand up, blood dripping from his armor and weapons. "Great, just great" he says wearly while examining his chain mail, thinking that it's going to take forever to clean.
"We seem to be good wolf killers. Let's find some more. But I'd like to know if they're coming in over the walls or just appearing somewhere in the city."
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) Monday June 20th, 2005 6:55:20 AM
"Here, Arm," says Mira as she hands the bard a vial, (roll for Cure Light Wounds), pushing a lock of hair off his face with her free hand. She tries to keep her voice steady, as she says "that was close!" adding in a whisper, "to close".
The sorcerer will wait for one with healing magic to help Arm further, and then follow after the group as they make their way through the streets.
DM Sanity Info: Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile#, Burning Hands, Mage Armor##
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] Blessed Monday June 20th, 2005 7:08:53 AM
"Aye" the fighter almost growls as the words escape his lips, let's find some more of these wolves. Conner pauses only long enough to drag the flat of his blade across the wolf's fur, leaving most of the blood behind.
Uriel {AC:18 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} Monday June 20th, 2005 11:16:58 AM
Uriel says to Arm and Mira, "save the consumable healing until our renewable healing is gone, unless there is no other option."
He goes and lays hands on Arm, giving him 9 points back.
"Arm, friend you would do better to consider a less... direct role in every encounter, with light armor and a small pool of endurance to draw from, it might do better to use a missle weapon or some bardic magic possibly," Uriel chides his friend gently.
Shadow d20+2=13 Monday June 20th, 2005 11:47:23 AM
Shadow moves over to the rest of the group and tries to recover his two arrows that are in the great wolf. "We better move if we are to keep up with our naturalist friend." Shadow indicates towards Evan as he moves off. He will see if he can listen for the closest wolves (listen=13)
Wilfire Ironhouse d8+3=10 d8+3=8 Monday June 20th, 2005 2:44:59 PM
"Git yerself over 'er" Wilfire said to Mira and Arm. "You in some need'a healin".
Wilfire than begins casting his healing spells, healing Arm for 10 and Mira for 8.
OOC- Sorry I missed the battle. I was away at the cottage
DM Kathy Tuesday June 21st, 2005 1:07:39 AM
The battle over, the companions rush to the aid of the wounded bard. Mira offers up a potion, Uriel lays on hands to cure some of the damage, and Wilfire follows with a healing spell.
Arm is completely healed, so the potion is not needed. Mira is not hurt, so Wilfire's second spell is not needed.
The townsfolk are climbing cautiously down off the wall, doing their best to avoid looking at the torn bodies piled grotesquely below. A few stammer their thanks to you, but most seem numb with shock and terror.
Evan loses little time in taking off after fresh prey, and soon the rest of you follow. By now, most of you aren't bothering to sheathe your weapons. It's a mark of how chaotic the city has gotten that the sight of naked, bloody weapons doesn't arouse nearly the kind of panic it ought to. People are too busy running from the wolves.
With Evan leading the way, you move on to a crossroads. Several of the houses here have crumbled to rubble, but most are still intact. You see a glimpse of the occasional face at a window and realize that many people have reached the sanctuary of their home (or a neighbor's). You see several bloody corpses littering the ground and realize that others weren't so lucky.
In the center of the crossroads are three wolves. They are wolf-sized, not horse-sized like that last one, but they seem different from the ordinary wolves you faced earlier. They are glaring at you with what you would swear is intelligence. And hatred.
They watch the party approach, snarling, then moving as one, they begin to charge.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+6=17 d20+6=11 d8+3=6 d20+3=16 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 5:41:22 AM
Evan sets his feet to recieve the charge, attacking with sword and axe the first wolf to reach him. He studies the wolves as they approach, trying to figure out what is different about them. (sword-17, dam-6, nature-16)
Arm ac 13, hp 13/13 d20+1=18 d8+1=2 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 5:58:46 AM
Smiling ruefully at Mira he says, "TELL me about it" as he hands her potion back to her. "Keep this for another time my dear, but thank you.".
After thanking Uriel and Wilf for their healing, he says to Uriel, "Perhaps I SHOULD take that advice...at least until I can either find or afford better armor. Unfortunately I have no songs that would avail any extra protection for myself or others, only something that will cause you to be more accurate in your fighting.". Saying so, he sheathes his sword and prepares his crossbow as they approach the crossroads.
Spying the new threat, he aims at one of the wolves and fires, connecting but just grazing it's shoulder (attk: 18, dmg: 2).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+10=11 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 6:35:57 AM
Kadaz grips his axe and shield and plants his feet on the cobbles of the road, bracing himself to resist the charging wolves. "Come kiss my axe!" he yells at them in a mixture of defiance and rage. If he gets the chance to swing at one running by he will. (attack 11)
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] Blessed d20+11=31 d20+11=30 d8+3=7 d8+3=9 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 7:57:12 AM
Conner eyes the charging wolves and waits intil the very last second to initiate his own headlong rush into batlle. The fighter charges the center wolf hoping to both split the pack as well as surprise them with the fury of his attack.
"Remenu!""To arms!" Conner calls out in dwarven and common at the top of his lungs as he brings his sword down on the center wolf. [Charge hits AC=31, nat 20, confirmed critical hit AC=30 for 7+9=16 HP].
Shadow d20+6=16 d4+2=6 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 10:16:27 AM
As soon as they see the wolves, and he notices the gleam in their eyes. Shadow stops, and tries to remain a little ways behind the fighters of the group and nocks an arrow. He will fire when the wolves start to charge. (to hit=16 dmg=6) He will nock and fire as soon as he can.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage Blessed} d20+9=20 d8+4=12 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 11:39:32 AM
As they follow Evan towards the wolves, Uriel trades the greatsword for longsword and shield.
Uriel moves to the front shouting, "Try to keep them from reaching those in the second rank. Close in tighter and allow missle support while we melee the wolves!"
He lifts his shield and swings at one of the wolves.
Hit AC:20 Dmg:12
{Hi
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) 2d4(3+4)+2=9 Tuesday June 21st, 2005 11:24:22 PM
Staying a safe distance from the attacking wolves, Mira takes cover behind the paladin, Uriel. The sorcerer shoots a missile of magical energy in support of Evan's attack at the front of the party (9 pts. dmg.)
DM Sanity Info: Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile##, Burning Hands, Mage Armour##
DM Kathy d20+7=14 d20+7=9 d20+7=13 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 1:39:05 AM
Evan does a quick mental inventory, and concludes that these are not ordinary wolves; they are magical in some way. Even as he reachs that conclusion, he is striking out at one of the attacking creatures, landing a solid blow.
Arm shoots at one of the creatures, wounding it lightly. Shadow's arrow follows, and strikes the same one.
Kadaz takes a swing at one of the onrushing wolves, but misses. Uriel has better luck, and does more damage to the wolf Evan has already wounded.
Conner unleashes a devastating attack on the center wolf, and his sword bites deep into the creature's powerful shoulder.
Mira follows up with two magic missiles to the wolf wounded by Evan and Uriel, and that one is starting to look rather the worse for wear.
It can still bite, though, and it lunges at Uriel. Its teeth close, but cannot penetrate the paladin's sturdy armor.
The center wolf attacks Conner, but seems disoriented by its own wound. Its attack goes astray.
The third wolf, the one with Arm's and Shadow's arrows sticking out of it, makes a lunge at Kadaz and likewise misses.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+6=26 d20+6=10 d20+6=7 d8+3=4 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 5:46:07 AM
In grim silence, Evan attacks again, trying to cut down the wolf in front of him. (sword-26 nat 20, no crit, axe missed, sword dam-4)
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] Blessed d20+7=10 d20+5=13 d6+3=5 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 7:01:47 AM
Conner turns and faces the central wolf, slashing with his sword [Hit AC=10]. Angry at himself for missing the injured wolf, the fighter tries to rake it with his spiked shield [Hit AC=13 for 5 HP].
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+10=26 d10+4=14 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 7:07:36 AM
Kadaz steadies himself and swings at the wounded wolf trying to bite him. This time the axe swings true and bites into the side of the wolf, drawing yet more blood. "Die!" yells the dwarf. (attack 26, damage 14)
Shadow [AC24/21 HP 19/19] d20+6=16 d4+2=5 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 11:05:42 AM
Shadow will let another arrow fire at the same wolf that he hit already. Silently he will curse to himself (if it missed, which I think it did), and he will get another arrow nocked and ready to let loose.
Arm d20+1=17 d8+1=9 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 11:06:42 AM
Arm fires another bolt at the wolf he just hit, this time making MUCH better contact with it (attk: 17, dmg: 9).
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Blessed Aura of Courage} d20+9=20 d8+4=9 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 12:00:52 PM
Uriel grunts at the weight of the wolf lunging to bite and then steps back and stabs at the wolf.
Hit AC:20 Dmg:9
OOC: from Scott (ADM) about email addresses Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 12:26:33 PM
Everyone: please email me (sapodac@d20.co.edu) with your correct email address, so Kathy and I can make sure Jerry has the correct email information from everyone.
thanks
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC 15) Bull's strength d20+9=14 d10+9=18 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 10:26:38 PM
Wilfire charges the nearest wolf and swings away with all that he has.
"Back ta hades wit yue, foul beast!" he yelled.
OOC- hit AC 14, or 16 if he can charge. Damage 18.
OOC2- Anyone else have trouble getting on the site yesterday?
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) 2d4(4+1)+2=7 Wednesday June 22nd, 2005 11:38:47 PM
Mira cringes when the wolf lunges at the paladin, but when she opens her eyes, Uriel is still standing, and bravely fending off the beast. With a big intake of air, Mira targets the wolf with her magic (7 pts. dmg. from Magic Missile)
DM Sanity Info: Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile###, Burning Hands, Mage Armour##
DM Kathy d20+7=16 d6+4=5 d20+3=4 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 2:23:52 AM
Evan again strikes the wolf in front of him, and Uriel follows with a solid blow of his own. That wolf goes down.
Conner misses his wolf twice, but Wilfire comes charging up and lands a massive blow. [Although I thought your flail did a d8, not a d10?] The wolf remains standing, but is clearly quite injured.
Kadaz sinks his axe into the wolf in front of him. Shadow and Arm fire at the same creature, but neither hits. [Arm's shot would have hit, but he has a -4 penalty for shooting into melee.]
Mira wants to assist Evan, but realizes his wolf is already down. Switching targets, she sends her magic missiles at the beast Kadaz is fighting, which looks the worst off. The bolts of magical energy kill it.
The single remaining creature is facing Conner and Wilfire, and decides to attack the dwarf. Blood gushes as the wolf's teeth sink into Wilfire's leg. [5 points damage] It tugs backwards, but is unable to trip the sturdy cleric.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+8=12 d20+8=25 d6+3=7 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 5:58:19 AM
Evan skips around behind the final wolf and strikes out with sword and axe. Because of the closeness of his friends, he doesn't really have enough room to swing the sword and misses but lands a solid blow with the axe. (sword-12, axe-25, dam-7)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+10=14 d10+4=12 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 6:50:09 AM
Kadaz glances around quickly to make sure that this is really the last wolf left. If so, he joins the group surrounding it to take his turn attacking but the number of attackers here throws his swing off. (attack 14, damage 12)
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] Blessed d20+9=29 d20+9=29 d8+3=6 d8+3=7 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 7:33:01 AM
Conner winces as the wolf sinks his teeth into the dwarf. He can feel the anger rise within himself and puts everything into one violent swing of his sword [Hit AC=29 confirmed critical for 13 HP].
Shadow [AC24/19 HP19/19] d20+2=22 d20+2=4 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 10:22:11 AM
Shadow sees that the other wolf is surrounded and does not want to hit his companions, so he searches around to make sure there are no other wolves in the vacinity. (Spot=22 nat. 20 and listen=4)
Arm d20-3=10 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 10:29:43 AM
Not wanting to hit Conner, Arm's shot goes wild (attk: 10).
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC 15) Bull's strength d20+9=24 d10+9=12 Thursday June 23rd, 2005 10:57:21 AM
OOC- Wilfire uses a two-handed flail.
Wilfire gladly gave up his leg to the wolf, knowing that the beasts head would be less stationary. "Bon appetite" he mused with clenched teeth. "Now keep yer head still..."
And with that Wilfire swung away. (to hit 24, damage 12)
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43} Friday June 24th, 2005 12:40:34 AM
Uriel will detect evil on the final creature before it goes down under the attacks of the party.
DM Kathy Friday June 24th, 2005 2:35:07 AM
Under the combined onslaught of Evan, Kadaz, Conner, and Wilfire, the final wolf goes down. Just before its life is extinguished, Uriel looks in its direction with his inner eye and sees the unmistakable glow of evil.
Shadow looks and listens for more wolves, and soon you are off again.
The next hour or so is a nightmarish blur of snarling wolves and snapping jaws and screams and the flash of steel. And blood. So much blood. It runs down cobbled streets, pools in gutters, splatters your clothes and stains your weapons.
Bodies are piled everywhere--the bodies of men and women. And children. Townsfolk, civilians, who were unarmed and unable to cope with rampaging wolves tearing through the streets of Plateau City. You do your best not to look, but sometimes you can't help but see, and realize the kind of damage a full-grown wolf can do to unprotected human flesh. You're pretty sure all your nightmares for a solid year will be about this day.
Still, you keep at it, becuase what else can you do? Abandon people to their fate because you were tired, or discouraged, or sick at heart? So you keep going, running from one blood-soaked street to the next, battling wolf after wolf. Evan is pretty good at figuring out where the next group of wolves will be, aided from time to time by Shadow's keen senses.
After about an hour, it seems as if the tide has finally ebbed. You still hear the occasional howl, but you have gone several blocks now without encountering any more wolves. You begin to feel that you might actually survive this day.
You walk up a street and realize you are in the Gold Quarter, near the Gladiator Castle. And as you move toward it, you see up ahead of you the largest group of wolves you have faced yet today. In the center is one of the horse-sized wolves, with three of the oddly intelligent, evil wolves next to it. Also on hand are six ordinary wolves. Growls and snarls fill the air as they see you coming.
With any luck, these are the last wolves in the immediate area, but it's going to be a heck of a fight...
Arm d20+1=17 d8+1=4 Friday June 24th, 2005 5:54:06 AM
"Wonderful," thinks Arm as they approach the group. "Well, best get to it," he adds to himself as he takes aim at the horse-sized wolf and connects, albeit grazingly (attk: 17, dmg: 4).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+10=16 d10+4=13 Friday June 24th, 2005 6:52:01 AM
Kadaz looks ahead at the plaza that opens up, the wolves waiting for them, and then at the buildings nearby. He makes a quick decision and hopes it is the right one. "Don't advance into the plaza. They'll just surround us. Mira - stand in that little alcove." Kadaz points at the building on the left with the funny corner. "You'll be protected on 2 sides but can still cast spells. Arm, stand beside her. Everyone else - make a shield wall in front of them. Make the wolves come to us on our terms!"
Kadaz offers a quick prayer to Domi that this works. And he is grateful that Birdie didn't come along and is safe at home. But is anywhere safe in Plateau City today?
While rearanging themselves Kadaz keeps his eyes on the wolves. If they charge he will try to keep them from breaking through and will swing if the opportunity presents itself. (attack 16, damage 13)
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) Friday June 24th, 2005 7:21:30 AM
Sensing the advanatage is not with the party, Mira selects the scroll she had been studying earilier when the party got shrunk down. "Hold your attack until I've cast," she calls as she opens the scroll and conjures a cloud of golden particles*.
DM Sanity Info: Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile###, Burning Hands, Mage Armour##
*Glitter Dust-2 rounds, A cloud of golden particles covers everything in the area targeted, blinding them for the duration of the spell.-p. 236 (Target-center of the wolf pack.)
(OOC: Sorry about missed post last night. Storms through the area and computer acting funny.)
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] d20+6=13 d20+4=24 d20+4=16 d6+3=9 d6+3=7 Friday June 24th, 2005 7:22:11 AM
Conner removes his pack and places it at Mira's feet. "There's oil inside" his voice is flat and emotionless, exhaustion is setting in. "Stuff some cloth in the top of each flask, light it up, and throw it at the cursed creatures if you run out of magic."
The fighter prepares himself for what he hopes is their final battle. Bracing himself for their charge he readies his shield and sword.
Readied action -Hit AC 13 with sword and AC 24 critical AC of 16 for 9+7 HP with shield bash.
Shadow [AC24/21 HP19/19] d20+6=8 Friday June 24th, 2005 11:10:03 AM
Shadow listens to the suggestions made by Kadaz and Mira and moves over to the area that Mira is supposed to be at. He then will let go with an arrow aimed at the closest 'intelligent' wolves, but misses terribly. (to hit=8) He will prepare to keep unleashing arrows until it becomes apparent that he will no longer be safe firing arrows.
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC19, HP 35) d8+3=9 d20+5=20 d8+1=8 Friday June 24th, 2005 6:57:22 PM
OOC- I'll assume Wilfire had time to heal himself and put on his plate mail, cause its the first thing he would have done once he had a chance... correct me if he didn't have the time. Heal roll=9.
Wilfire moved ahead 20" and began casting, calling upon a spiritual two-handed flail to aid him in battle. (OOC- spiritual weapon- +5 attack, d8+1 damage). The flail appeared beside one of the large wolves (G1), and immediately launched towards the creature. (Hit AC 20, damage 8)
OOC1- Spiritual weapon duration = 3 rounds
OOC2- Spells remaining Enlarge Person, Protection from evil, silence
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} d20+9=29 d20+9=23 d8+5=9 d8+5=11 Sunday June 26th, 2005 9:29:21 PM
Uriel will arrange himself on the point of the alcove that Kadaz mentioned. The left flank as it were.
With a quick prayer to Domi, he prepares to fight.
Readied action - When they charge he will attack, hopefully one of the G wolves but will be satisfied with whichever one comes. AC:29 possible Crit AC:23 to confirm Dmg:9 Crit Dmg:11 Total:20
DM Kathy d20+6=25 d20+3=7 d20+3=14 d20+3=22 d20+3=20 d20+3=6 d20+3=8 d20+3=11 d20+3=20 d20+3=5 d6+1=7 d20+1=19 Monday June 27th, 2005 1:13:08 AM
Arm fires at the largest of the creatures. His arrow sinks in and draws a little blood.
Kadaz begins directing the defense and stands with his axe at the ready.
Mira casts a spell, and a swirling cloud of gold envelops the large wolf and the three intelligent evil wolves [OOC: okay, they're Worgs]. The large wolf sneezes, but otherwise seems fine. Two of the evil ones seem disoriented, as if they can't really see what thery're doing. The third one seems fine.
Conner hands Mira his pack with flasks of oil, then readies his weapons and stands beside Kadaz.
Shadow moves to the alcove area and fires a shot that goes wide.
Wilfire [who is healed up and wearing his armor] casts a spell, and a flail appears to bash one of the evil-looking wolves.
Uriel likewise prepares for the wolves to advance.
[Evan didn't post but I'm not going to leave him hanging out there like that, so he'll move back next to Conner.]
The large wolf and the ordinary wolves move in to attack immediately. The intelligent wolves seem to be hanging back a bit.
The large wolf arrives first. Kadaz's axe strikes it, then Conner's shield and Uriel's sword, each of the last two doing more damage than usual. The massive creature looks utterly surprised as it falls over dead.
You have little time to congratulate yourselves, though, as the six wolves come close on the heels of the large one.
The first one snaps at Shadow but misses. Four other wolves attack Conner, Kadaz, Evan, and Wilfire, but none of them really comes close. The wolf attacking Uriel, though, has a bit better luck, and closes its teeth on the paladin's leg [7 points damage]. It braces its four legs and pulls, and Uriel is toppled.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+6=24 d20+6=13 d8+3=11 Monday June 27th, 2005 5:46:40 AM
Evan attacks the nearest wolf, his sword striking true but exhaustion causing the axe to miss. If any of the wolves try to slip past the front the fighter's have created, Evan disengages with his target to move and intercept in an attempt to protect Mira.
(sword-24, axe-13, dam-11)
Arm d20-3=9 Monday June 27th, 2005 5:48:15 AM
Feeling the fatigue setting in as well, and trying his best not to hit his companions, Arm's next shot goes wide (attk=9).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+10=23 d10+4=8 d20+10=26 d10+4=5 Monday June 27th, 2005 6:28:27 AM
The battle line has formed, just know how Kadaz had envisioned it. Well, no time to worry about that now because Uriel is down. Kadaz swings at the wolf that has just pulled Uriel to the ground. (attack 23, damage 8).
If that wolf falls Kadaz quickly swings his axe to the side at the wolf directly in front of him. (cleave if possible, attack 26, damage 5)
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] d20+6=24 d8+3=10 d20+4=7 Monday June 27th, 2005 7:55:43 AM
Conner does not wait for the next wave of wolves to reach him. He wades into the pack, slashing with his longsword and thrusting his spiked shield at the wolves in range. [Hit W2 AC=24 for 10 HP - missed with shield]
Conner will move into the square occupied by W2 if it dies as a result of his and Evan's attacks.
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) 2d4(3+2)+2=7 Monday June 27th, 2005 7:57:26 AM
Mira looks past her companions and fixes on one of the disoriented wolves. Reaching out with the last of her magic she sends two balls of damaging energy in the creature's direction. (7 dmg from Magic Missile)
Spells: 0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand######, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 6 per day-Magic Missile####, Burning Hands, Mage Armour##
*Glitter Dust-2 rounds, A cloud of golden particles covers everything in the area targeted, blinding them for the duration of the spell.-p. 236 (Target-center of the wolf pack.)
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+4=12 Monday June 27th, 2005 10:44:50 AM
Shadow (not realizing how quickly the wolves advanced on him) slings his bow and draws his rapier. If his able will stab at the wolf attacking him, but misses. (to hit=12)
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC 19) T11/FF18 d20+7=10 d20+5=9 Monday June 27th, 2005 10:33:35 PM
Wilfire swung away with everything he had, but his feet were poorly set, which caused him to miss. His spiritual flail also attacked, but the strike was clumsy.
Uriel {AC:15(19) HP:36/43, Aura of Courage} d20+4=7 Monday June 27th, 2005 11:00:33 PM
Uriel falls ungracefully to the ground and attempts an ugly swing at the wolf that tripped him but misses.
DM Kathy d20+3=6 d20+3=8 d20+3=20 d20+3=19 d20+3=7 d6+1=4 d20+1=16 d20+6=22 d20+6=12 d20+7=10 d20+7=14 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 12:29:26 AM
Evan attacks Wolf 2, dealing the creature a significant wound. He is ready to rush to Mira's aid, should that be necessary.
Conner follows up with an attack to Wolf 2, dispatching it handily. He strides forward over its sprawled corpse.
Arm fires a shot, but misses.
Kadaz attacks Wolf 4 [it was actually 5 who tripped Uriel, but you can't reach that one]. His swing connects, and the wolf is badly wounded.
Mira fires her Magic Missiles at one of the blinded Worgs. The creature yelps and snarls, unable to see what is attacking it.
Shadow puts up his bow and draws his rapier.
Wilfire and his spiritual flail both miss their targets this round.
Prone, Uriel strikes out at the wolf who attacked him, but misses.
Shadow's wolf snaps at him, but misses. Ignoring Uriel for the moment, the other four remaining wolves go after Kadaz and Wilfire--two wolves on each dwarf. One of the ones on Kadaz makes contact, but his teeth can't penetrate the dwarf's sturdy armor. One of Wilfire's is a little luckier, and his teeth sink in [4 points damage]. The wolf tugs hard, but is unable to trip the dwarf.
The two blinded Worgs are apparantly trying to find an opponent by scent. One of them seems to manage, and approaches Conner, to be joined by the un-blinded one. The other continues to mill about, clearly still confused. The two Worgs attack Conner, but neither of them is able to connect.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+6=22 d20+6=9 d8+3=6 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 5:42:01 AM
Evan attacks one of the two worgs on Conner, the sword striking true but missing wildly with the axe. (sword-22, axe-9, dam-6)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+10=23 d10+4=6 d20+10=30 d20+10=12 d10+4=10 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 5:53:17 AM
Kadaz swings at the wounded wolf, trying to finish it off. He hits and it takes even more damage, hopefully enough to make it go down. (attack 23, damage 6).
If it does go down Kadaz turns his attention to the other wolf in front of him and swings again, praying for a solid hit. (attack 30, natural 20, doesn't convert to a critical, 10 damage)
Arm d20-3=17 d8+1=2 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 5:57:39 AM
Succeeding this time, Arm gets a hit on W6, but only nicks it (attk: 17-dmg: 2). "I've had enough of this long-range nonsense," he thinks after the shot, "It's time to get up front and do some REAL damage.".
Conner [AC=22, HP=32] d20+6=17 d20+4=15 d8+3=11 d6+3=7 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 7:32:51 AM
Conner's training takes over as he quickly assesses the tactical situation. The dwarves, he knows, will make quick work of the wolves as long as the worgs are held at bay. The fighter sizes up the two worgs and attacks the blinded one (G1?), trying to even the odds as quickly as possible. He swings first with his longsword and follows with a shield bash, hoping the animal is caught unawares. [Hit AC=17 and 15 for 11 and 7 HP respectively].
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP20/20] d20+4=11 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 8:53:45 AM
Shadow swings at the wolf in front of him, but misses. 'I should stick to using my new bow.' he thinks to himself. (to hit=11)
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+7=24 d20+5=15 d10+4=8 d8+1=2 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 8:57:10 AM
Wilfire shrugged off the bite and countered with a mighty overhead strike with his flail (hit AC 24, damage 10... I should have had it as a +6 not +4). Meanwhile his spiritual flail thrashed away at the same wolf (hit AC 15, D2).
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) d20+5=20 d8+1=3 Tuesday June 28th, 2005 8:00:45 PM
Mira takes a step to her left, catching up her light crossbow and a bolt as she does. Trying to get a good fix on G3 between Conner and Kadaz, she looses the bolt at point blank range. (Hit AC 20 for 3 pts. dmg)
DM Kathy d20+7=17 d20+7=23 d6+4=6 d20+3=13 d20+3=12 d20+3=6 d20+3=19 d20+3=17 d6+1=4 d20+1=10 Wednesday June 29th, 2005 1:13:15 AM
Evan steps up and attacks one of the worgs, which is now looking a bit the worse for wear.
Kadaz strikes a powerful blow, finishing off the wounded wolf in front of him. His follow-through connects with the wolf standing next to it, wounding it severely.
Arm fires a shot that hits one of the two wolves on Wilfire.
Conner's sword and shield flash, and the first blinded worg goes down.
Wilfire strikes the wolf that Arm hit earlier, which is now also looking very wounded. The spiritual flail strikes at G1, but the target is already dead.
Mira fires a shot and hits the third worg. Shadow swings at his wolf but misses.
The glittering dust disappears from the worgs, and the blinded one blinks, focuses, and advances on Conner. The two worgs attack the tattooed fighter, and one of them is able to connect [6 points damage]. It tugs hard, and almost manages to trip Conner, but the fighter is able to keep his balance.
Wolf 1 attacks Arm, but misses. Wolf 3 misses Kadaz, and Wolf 6 misses Wilfire. Wolf 5 has a bit more luck, however, and sinks its teeth into Wilfire [4 points damage]. It tries to trip him, but the attempt is laughable.
Arm ac 13 : hp 13/13 d20+3=18 d8+1=7 Wednesday June 29th, 2005 5:43:12 AM
OOC: Kathy, according to the last combat map you sent, I was nowhere near the front lines, so how could I be attacked? I'm advancing this round, but last round I was still in the back... :)
IC: Dropping his crossbow (for retrieval later), Arm draws his sword and advances on W6, connecting with MUCH more satisfying results. "That's a LOT better," he thinks. (attk: 18 dmg: 7).
Oops! Right you are; W1 attacked Shadow. Sorry, I was posting in a hurry.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+10=28 d10+4=5 d20+10=24 d12+4=8 Wednesday June 29th, 2005 6:33:20 AM
Kadaz takes a step in front of Uriel but swings at the wolf he just wounded. (Attack 28, damage 5). If that wolf goes down he quickly swings at the wolf standing near the prone Uriel, trying to remove the threat from his companion. (attack 24, damage 8)
Conner [AC=22, HP=26/32] d20+6=11 d20+4=23 d6+3=9 Wednesday June 29th, 2005 7:42:42 AM
Conner holds his ground and uses his sword to parry the gaping maw of one of the worgs. His follow through with his shield arm is designed for much more, and the three spikes sink deep into the side of his target [Hit G2 AC=23 for 9 HP]
Shadow [AC21/18 HP20/20] d20+4=23 d4+1=5 Wednesday June 29th, 2005 9:18:14 AM
Shadow lounges at the wolf in front of him (W1) and connects with it. (to hit=23 dmg=5) "Yes!" he exclaims after his first two failed attempts. He is starting to feel a little bit better about using his new rapier (he does not seem to do as well with it as he does with his new bow).
Uriel {AC:19 HP:36/43 Aura of Courage} d20+8=15 d8+3=8 Wednesday June 29th, 2005 6:04:11 PM
Uriel spends the round regaining his footing. If he can still attack, he will swing away.
Hit AC:15 Dmg:8
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) d20+5=19 d8+1=6 Thursday June 30th, 2005 12:38:33 AM
Mira fires another bolt at the wolves attacking the group. (Hit AC 19, 6 dmg-target G3)
DM Kathy d20+3=13 d20+3=11 d20+3=11 d20+7=16 d20+7=17 Thursday June 30th, 2005 2:21:23 AM
Arm drops his crossbow and draws his sword as he moves in on the wolves. He slashes Wolf 6 and draws blood.
Kadaz steps in front of his fallen companion and swings again at Wolf 3. His axe bites deep, and the wolf goes down. He continues his swing into Wolf 5, and wounds it.
Conner parries, then strikes out at one of the Worgs with his shield. The creature is wounded, but still fighting.
Shadow finally manages to take a piece out of Wolf 1.
Uriel climbs to his feet, which provokes an AoO from Wolf 5. Its bite isn't good enough to penetrate the paladin's armor, however, and Uriel counters with a strong blow from his sword. The wolf drops to the cobbles, dead.
Mira fires another bolt at G3, hitting the creature again.
Wolf 1 attacks Shadow again, but misses. Wolf 6 (the only other normal wolf remaining) switches targets to the man who just wounded him, which would be Arm. Its attack is no better, however.
The worgs continue to concentrate on Conner, but their attacks also miss.
Arm d20+3=16 d8+1=8 Thursday June 30th, 2005 5:46:48 AM
Encouraged some by his good luck the last time, Arm swings again at the beast and once again connects (attk: 16 - dmg: 8).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+10=18 d10+4=5 d20+10=30 d20+10=28 d10+4=8 d10+4=7 Thursday June 30th, 2005 6:55:32 AM
Kadaz moves to the left to stand next to Conner. He then swings at the wolf that, of the two in range, appears to be most wounded, trying to eliminate one more opponent. (attack 18, damage 5). If the wolf goes down he then swings at the other. (Attack 30, natural 20, confirmed critical, 15 damage).
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+6=26 d20+6=19 d20+6=24 d8+3=4 2d8(6+4)+3=13 d6+3=4 Thursday June 30th, 2005 7:37:17 AM
With a surge of sudden energy, Evab strikes out at one of the worgs, (G2), his sword and axe flashing with deadly accuracy. (sword-26, nat 20, crit chance-19, axe-24, sword dam-4, crit dam-13, axe dam-4)
Conner [AC=22, HP=26/32] d20+6=21 d20+4=8 d8+3=5 Thursday June 30th, 2005 7:54:12 AM
Conner lashes out again with his longsword at the worg [Hit AC=21 for 5 HP]. In his enthusiasm, the fighter swings his shield wide.
Shadow [AC21/18 HP20/20] d20+4=10 Thursday June 30th, 2005 9:05:21 AM
Shadow swings again at the wolf, hoping for a killing blow, but instead lounges too far to his left and misses the beast. (to hit=10)
Wilfire Ironhouse (AC19, HP 27/35) d20+7=27 d20+5=24 d20+7=8 d20+5=16 d10+6=12 Thursday June 30th, 2005 9:14:03 AM
Wilfire spun his heavy flail over his head and then brought it crashing down hard onto the wolves head (W6--> 27, crit failed 8, 12 damage). Wilfire then focused his mental energies on a spiritual flail attack (move action to redirect on G3, hit 19+5=24, crit confirmation 16, damage unrolled cause there wasn't enough rolling space)
OOC: I wrote in my earlier post that Wilfire's spiritual flail was heavy, since that is the weapon that he took for his war domain focus. A such I used a 19-20 crit in the roll above. However if you deem that it should be a light flail, then the critical was not successful.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:36/43 Aura of Courage} d20+11=29 d8+7=15 Thursday June 30th, 2005 6:40:32 PM
Coming up on the nearest accessible evil worg, Uriel shouts out loud something unintelligible as he smites the beast, there is a small flash of golden light as the sword connects.
{Using Smite Evil Hit AC:29 Dmg:15}
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) d20+5=16 d8+1=8 Thursday June 30th, 2005 8:58:42 PM
Mira's eyes dart from side to side as she takes in the action. The party seems to be holding up well and gaining the upper hand against the strange wild beasts.
Selecting another bolt, Mira fires at the nearest creature likely to be a threat. (Hit AC 16, 8 pts dmg)
DM Kathy Friday July 1st, 2005 3:35:46 AM
Arm takes another swing at Wolf 6 and finishes it off.
Kadaz steps next to Conner and takes a swing at Worg 2. He wounds the creature but does not kill it. Conner follows up with a blow at the same worg, who is now looking very wounded.
Meanwhile, Wilfire's spiritual flail finishes off Worg 3, enabling Uriel to step up and smite the living heck out of Worg 2. Both of the evil creatures are now destroyed.
Shadow is still locked in a duel with his wolf, and misses his strike. Mira, however, gets off a good shot with her crossbow, and the creature goes down.
The wolves are all dead now, and you can hear no more howls in the city. There is blood everywhere--in the streets, on your weapons, splattered on your clothes and armor. The coppery tang of the stuff fills your nostrils.
And, now that you are no longer fighting for your lives, you realize how fatigued you are. You've been fighting a running battle for a solid hour; your muscles tremble with the effort to keep going. Your weapons and armor feel heavier than they every have. You want nothing more than to rest for a good long time--but there's a flooded river between you and the comparitive safety of your lodgings.
Everybody make a Spot check, please.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+9=11 Friday July 1st, 2005 5:29:39 AM
Using a wall to keep himself upright, Evan pants heavily as he tries to catch his breath, exhaustion causing him to finally drop his guard. (spot-11)
Arm d20+4=21 Friday July 1st, 2005 6:04:25 AM
Retrieving his crossbow, Arm wipes his sword clean on one of the wolves hides on a part that won't dirty it more. As the familiar adrenaline rush fades, he realizes how dead tired he is, and how much has happened in the last few hours. Dazed, he slumps to the ground and, staring up at the sky, thinks "Is everyone going to blame all of this on me because I voted 'no' to wake the sleeper?".
Wearily he looks around briefly to make sure that his companions are well, and that there are no further threats to them at the moment, not that he would be able to do much about it right now anyway (spot=21).
OOC: Have a good 4th, all! :)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+1=19 Friday July 1st, 2005 6:59:03 AM
Kadaz looks wildly around for another foe, then relaxes as he sees all of the wolves dead on the ground. "We are the Wolf Killers!" he yells in triumph. But then he looks beyond the dead monsters and the destruction they visited on his city registers in his mind. The victory is ashes in his mouth. "Who did this to us? I want revenge" he vows. (spot 19)
Shadow [AC21/18 HP20/20] d20+2=22 Friday July 1st, 2005 8:57:43 AM
Shadow is just about to lunge at the wolf again when he sees the crossbow bolt sink into the wolf and it drops. He looks around for another wolf and realizes they are all down. He listens for sounds, but only hears his own heavy breathing and his thumping of his heart. He wipes off his rapier on the wolf in front of him and puts it away. He will get his bow out, but realizes just how tired he is. He is not sure he could draw back the bow to shoot another arrow. With that he will lean against the wall and be thankful that they all made it through. He will try and keep a watchful eye open for any more danger. (Spot=22 natural 20)
Wilfire Ironhouse (27/35-->34/35) d20+3=8 d8+3=7 Friday July 1st, 2005 9:29:47 AM
Wilfire casts a quick healing spell on himself as soon as the battle is over (healed 7-34/35).
"Somebody be payin fer dis trickery. Payin tenfold" Wilfire promised as he scanned the area for any sign of trouble (spot 8).
Conner d20+3=23 Friday July 1st, 2005 9:41:10 AM
The tattoed fighter allows his swordarm to fall to his side as he takes in the carnage. "Where did that big horse-sized wolf get to?" he asks. [Spot=23; nat 20]
Uriel d20+3=7 Sunday July 3rd, 2005 8:53:09 PM
Uriel is clearly bone weary. He leans heavily against the building and misses spotting anything.
Mira (AC 13/17 Mage Armour, 22 HP) d20+2=10 Sunday July 3rd, 2005 10:48:59 PM
Mira lowers her light crossbow, and looks around at her exhausted friends, and her heart aches. She turns around in a full circle and takes in the devastation and carnage and she feels the tears well up in her eyes.
"What is this madness?" she wonders aloud.
Arm Tuesday July 5th, 2005 5:56:48 AM
Content that his companions are all whole, if only in body and not mind or spirit, Arm rests his head back against a nearby building, hoping that someone will wake him when they decide to leave...even though he'd be happy staying right where he is.
Shadow Tuesday July 5th, 2005 10:05:04 AM
Shadow will continue to lean against the wall, but will remain alert to any dangers to the group.
Mira Tuesday July 5th, 2005 8:53:03 PM
The sorcerer picks her way through the detritus and finds the ranger. Placing a hand on Evan's shoulder, she suggests, "lets go home."
Evan Wednesday July 6th, 2005 5:33:06 AM
Nodding to Mira, he hooks her arm with his, smiling weakly as he pushes himself off the supporting wall so they can start making their way back home trying his best not to see the carnage caused by the wolves and failing miserably.
Arm Wednesday July 6th, 2005 5:52:43 AM
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.....
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] Wednesday July 6th, 2005 7:20:26 AM
Kadaz looks over the carnage in the street and has a thought. "Hey, we have a pile of wolves here. Aren't wolf pelts worth something? Does anyone know how to skin one of these? How about a necklace of wolf talons?"
Shadow Wednesday July 6th, 2005 9:34:57 AM
Shadow is just about to fall asleep when Kadaz asks about wolf pelts. "I have no clue about skinning anything, and I am not sure you would get much for the mangled remains."
Conner Wednesday July 6th, 2005 5:49:21 PM
The fighter continues to scan his surroundings for the large wolf that seemed to be orchestrating the carnage.
Mira Wednesday July 6th, 2005 10:45:15 PM
"Maybe we could set up camp here or in one of these building, if it is safe?" suggests the sorcerer putting a hand to her mouth to stiffle a yawn. "Today has taken a lot out of me, and if I don't get some shut-eye, I'll be no good to anyone." If Mira can locate a safe place, she will curl up for a snooze, wrapping herself in the folds of her voluminous cloak.
Evan Thursday July 7th, 2005 5:30:50 AM
Evam sits with Mira, giving her a soft lap to use for a pillow. It was his intention to keep an eye open for danger, but soon after Mira falls asleep, so does he.
Arm d20+4=18 Thursday July 7th, 2005 6:17:26 AM
Startled awake by dangers imagined rather than real, Arm takes a quick look around (spot=18), then quickly falls back to sleep.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] Thursday July 7th, 2005 6:50:14 AM
While the other relax Kadaz goes to the giant wolf and with his dagger removes the claws from all four feet. "These should make an interesting necklace" he explains to those still awake.
ADM Scott (in place of Kathy) Thursday July 7th, 2005 10:11:56 AM
Instead of the group sleeping out in the open, they head back to their apartment. They find it fairly uneventful, if you consider the rising water and the sudden plant growth.
When they get back to their apartment they find it amazingly in good shape compared to some of the other buildings they have passed. The plant growth seems to have continued in it rapid pace, but it does not seem to pose a serioud threat to the building while the party rests.
Most of the party is very tired from their eventful day.
(Sorry for the very generic post, but want to keep moving on. Since most of you had posted about sleeping it made sense to move us back to the apartment.)
Shadow Thursday July 7th, 2005 10:14:06 AM
Shadow is relieved to get back to the apartment without incident and quickly goes to his room. After getting his gear off he looks it over to make sure everything will be okay until morning (no major collection of blood or things that would cause the leather to stiffen too much and that his sword is clean).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20-3=7 d20+5=17 Thursday July 7th, 2005 1:25:56 PM
Birdie is overjoyed at having Kadaz back. He starts to jump around but then catches scent of the wolf blood on Kadaz. He also quickly detects the wolf talons Kadaz has in a pocket and starts to growl, hackles up. Kadaz has to spend some time convincing Birdie that there is no threat here.
Once that is done Kadaz starts cleaning. When he slipped and rolled in a pool of blood he coated all of the links of his chain mail. And some fur flung loose during the battles caught on the drying blood. The result is that Kadaz looks like a walking fur ball. Kadaz strips, sluices off himself first, and then starts the long job of cleaning and then drying his armor and weapons. While the others nap, Kadaz concentrates on this job and quietly hums a tune to himself. (perform 7)
Birdie lays near Kadaz keeping an eye out for trouble, especially small fairies. (spot 17)
Conner Thursday July 7th, 2005 5:48:35 PM
Conner returns to the apartment, and following Kadaz' lead he cleans and hones his weapons and wipes down his armor. "Plate's a bit easier to clean than chain" he grins at Kadaz.
When he has finished he will investigate Sampson's and see if he can procure some ale and nourishment. He will also check on the whereabouts of the buxom Amy
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday July 7th, 2005 9:51:52 PM
"So much innocent blood spilt" Wilfire thought as he rubbed his face in frustration. "What kind of person could do such a thing? What kinda person..."
Terrible visions of the days events flashed through Wilfire's mind, and soon his tears began to consume him.
"Jus ain't right" he muttered as he started violently shifting through things in search of something... anything to drink.
It seemed as if Wilfire was about to fall off the wagon...
Consequences
DM Kathy Thursday July 7th, 2005 11:54:46 PM
[OOC: I apologize again for leaving everybody hanging while I was in the hospital. I'm going to have to beg your indulgence and back up the action just a bit. Unfortunately, the one piece of information I was desperate to convey to Scott was, "whatever else happens, don't let them get back to the apartment before I come back." I tried to think of an elegant work-around, but I couldn't, so I'm going to have to back up. I'm really sorry.]
You spend a few minutes gazing at your handiwork and trying to come to grips with the events of the day. Wilfire heals himself up a bit.
Looking at the carcass of the horse-sized wolf, Arm, Shadow, and Conner all notice a glint of gold at the creature's neck. Further examination shows it to be a medalion of some kind, hung around the wolf's neck by a leather thong. The medalion has no writing on it, but does bear a symbol: three stylized trees with a crown floating above them.
Interesting as the medalion is, however, it doesn't bring you any closer to home. You begin making your way there, which proves to be a more difficult task than it normally would be. For one thing, plants are still tearing up the buildings, and every now and again a shower of mortar or small stones comes tumbling into the street. Worse, the river is flooded and crossing it is difficult. You move to the Gladiator Quarter, but its bridge is mostly underwater--and anyway leads to the very flooded Merchant Quarter. The Circus Quarter bridge isn't in much better shape, but you are glad to see that the Buckler Bridge is still (more or less) intact. Flood waters are clawing angrily at it, and the water is over the roadway in some places, but it is still passable. You cross and find yourselves once again in the familiar surroundings of the Trade Quarter.
Of course, they aren't as familiar as they could be. Many buildings have toppled, and the flood waters have encroached a little more. All in all, though, this quarter is a little better off than others you've seen, and it is with a sense of relief that you make your way to the lodgings behind Sampson's.
You turn down your home street, and are relieved to see that the building appears to be intact, and that the flooding has not reached this far. You make your way homeward in the waning afternoon light.
As you get closer, however, you notice the figure crumpled on the cobblestones, practically at your front door. The man's clothes are torn and bloody, and he is lying quite still, a pool of blood on the ground beneath him. He looks like the dozens of other wolf victims you've seen today--only he is right in front of your house.
[Everybody make Spot and Listen checks please.]
Arm d20+4=5 d20+4=20 Friday July 8th, 2005 6:10:16 AM
Before taking the amulet, Arm asks Uriel if he detects any evil surrounding it. If not, he will take the amulet for closer study later.
Once back at the flat, Arm notices the body at their doorstep and immediately looks around for signs of danger (spot=5, listen=20), and wonders if this was left as a warning to the group...but a warning about what? They aren't currently on any specific mission, simply trying to get through this crisis intact, so who (or what) could have done this? He resolves to bring this up to the group as soon as they get some rest.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+1=13 d20+1=9 Friday July 8th, 2005 7:00:10 AM
Before leaving the large wolf Kadaz will take his trophies (claws from all 4 paws) as proof of their victory. On the way home he watches and listens carefully, but is overwhelmed by the destruction in his home town.
Nearing home Kadaz starts to relax but the sight of a dead body at his doorstep bring him back to full alert. But the long day has affected him and he is not at his best. (spot 13, listen 9)
Conner d20+3=13 d20+2=12 Friday July 8th, 2005 7:38:50 AM
Conner follows the others back to the flat, keeping his eyes and ears open for danger, he covers the rear of the party as they travel through the city [Spot=13, Listen=12]
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+3=16 d20+3=9 Friday July 8th, 2005 9:04:16 AM
"Nudder dead" Wilfire muttered as tears welled in his eyes.
"Too many dead. Too much destroyed. And all on account of what?" Wilfire thought to himself.
(listen 16, Spot 9)
Shadow d20+2=15 d20+3=22 Friday July 8th, 2005 10:24:09 AM
Shadow notices the gold glinting off of the large wolf, and follows the group over to it. He is about to remove the amulet when Arm speaks up, so he waits to see what happens.
Shadow is discouraged as the group sees so much destruction to Plateau City (his only home), and wonders if it is going to continue and what will happen to it. 'What has the Sleeper done to this beautiful city?' he thinks to himself.
When they approach Sampson's and turn the corner to their apartment, Shadow notices the dead body and warily looks around and tries to listen for anything apparent. (spot=15, listen=22)
Evan d20+9=14 d20+8=24 Friday July 8th, 2005 2:51:56 PM
Evan quickly moves to the body and drops to one knee next to it. Despite the amount of blood surrounding the body, he still checks for signs of breathing of a pulse. He examines the wounds, trying to determine what might have made them as well as going through the man's things to find out who he is. (spot-14, listen-24)
Mira d20+3=5 Friday July 8th, 2005 5:44:47 PM
Mira keeps next to Evan, and, standing next to the ranger leans over the prone man. "Is he dead?" she asks unhelpfully (Spot=4, failed aid another to notice signs of life, doh!)
Uriel d20+3=9 Saturday July 9th, 2005 9:34:53 AM
Uriel sighs as he picks himself up off the wall and concentrates on the amulet to sense any signs of evil...
Back at the apartment Uriel is still exhausted and unable to spot anything.
Conner - Illegal 2nd Post Saturday July 9th, 2005 9:39:22 AM
[OOC - Off to UK for a month - Jeff is Looking after Conner. Thanks!]
DM Kathy Saturday July 9th, 2005 10:00:42 AM
Uriel reports that the amulet does not detect as evil, so Arm removes it and takes it with him.
As you reach the apartment, Arm, Wilfire, Shadow, and Evan all think they hear something--a tiny scuffling sound and perhaps an indrawn breath. Wilfire is unable to place the source, and Evan is busy with the corpse, but Arm and Shadow realize that it is coming from the roof.
Evan steps up to examine the body. The man is quite dead and already beginning to cool. Searching for signs of identification, Evan is horrified to realize that he recognizes the man. It is Baldis the leatherworker.
Shadow Saturday July 9th, 2005 9:32:02 PM
"Hey everyone, there is something up on the roof." He readies his bow, and nocks an arrow. He will be ready for anything coming off of the roof.
Conner d20+3=17 Saturday July 9th, 2005 9:50:11 PM
Conner looks up while pulling his bow off his shoulder and reading an arrow. "Were?" (spot 17)
Kadaz (AC 21, HP 40) d20+1=12 Saturday July 9th, 2005 9:53:29 PM
Kadaz already has his axe ready and look up to scan the roofline. "Birdie, come here" he yells. Kadaz is very anxious about his dog, if anything happened to Birdie -- well, he's not sure what he would do but it would not be pretty. (spot 12)
Uriel Sunday July 10th, 2005 6:06:15 PM
Reacting to the others indication of someone on the roof, Uriel does one of two things...
{If he feels he can put a reasonable amount of distance back from the rooftop to see who is up top, then he will move back to get the angle. Otherwise he just puts himself against the wall with his sword out ready to fight}
Wilfire Ironhouse Sunday July 10th, 2005 7:07:41 PM
Wilfire looks up, while throwing himself against the wall and grabbing his flail.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 d20+5=18 d20+9=20 Monday July 11th, 2005 5:48:30 AM
With a growl of fury, Evan leaps up and dashes to the corner of the building where he begins climbing. The moment he reaches the top, he palms weapons and seeks a target. (climb-18, spot-20)
Arm d20+4=15 d20+4=19 Monday July 11th, 2005 5:56:13 AM
Instantly on the alert, Arm draws on the last of his energy reserves as well as his sword and scans the rooftop for signs of trouble (listen=15, spot=19).
Mira/Lenny d20=17 d20=4 Monday July 11th, 2005 6:00:50 AM
Totally exhausted and drained of her spellcasting ability, Mira moves to hug the wall to stay out of harm's way and out of the way of her companions. While there, she listens of signs of trouble, but her vantage point prevents her from seeing ANYTHING that may be on the roof (listen=17,spot=4).
OOC: I'll be playing Mira until Carla get back from vacation, so wish me luck.. :)
DM Kathy Monday July 11th, 2005 3:58:07 PM
Instantly on the alert, the group focuses weapons and attention on the roof. What could be up there?
Evan begins climbing, and in soon reaches the roof. Stepping onto its surface, he scans around and sees the person who was making the noises, crouching near the roof's center. She is a human child of about eight years old or so, her clothes torn and dirty, her red hair straggling out of its braids, tearstains on her face. You recognize her: it is Zully, Baldis's daughter.
She looks at you as you reach the roof. "M-M-Master Evan?' she asks in a quavering voice, then bursts into a flood of noisy tears.
Shadow Monday July 11th, 2005 8:26:06 PM
Seeing Evan climb up to the roof, Shadow is not sure of what to do. On one hand he thinks, 'I should have probably been the one to get on the roof.' but on the other hand, 'I should support my new friend by being ready.' He decides on the latter and moves a little further back to see what is happening on the roof, but he will keep the arrow nocked in case Evan needs his support.
Wilfire Ironhouse Monday July 11th, 2005 10:08:54 PM
Wilfire stands leans up against the wall for support when he hears the girls noisy tears. How many children had lost their parents on this day? And how many parents had lost their children?
Uriel Monday July 11th, 2005 11:38:42 PM
Uriel hears the girl's voice and moves over to place his cloak over the girl's father.
Evan Tuesday July 12th, 2005 5:36:00 AM
Evan's weapons drop from nerveless finger to clatter onto the roof. His lips form one word, 'Zully?' then he is quickly moving forward to gather Zully into his arms, holding her close and rocking her as she cries, tenderly stroking her hair, hating that he cannot offer any words of sympathy or encouragement to the poor girl, who obviously saw how her father died.
Arm Tuesday July 12th, 2005 5:51:24 AM
Hearing the girl's cries, Arm relaxes a bit and steps back from the house to get a better view of the roof, then motions Mira to come forward as well. As he does, he notices for the first time the identity of the body. Bowing his head in grief and in respect for the dead, he thinks "How many more will die today?".
Mira d20=16 d20=1 Tuesday July 12th, 2005 5:55:12 AM
Upon hearing the girl and getting the sign from Arm, Mira moves away from the wall to stare up at the roof as well. She then tries to determine who the girl is as well as what is being said, but from her vantage point she cannot see her (listen=16, spot=1). If she can catch Evan's attention, she signs to him "Do you need any help?".
Conner Tuesday July 12th, 2005 7:18:49 AM
The big fighter looks up at the roof and then back to the bloody body on their doorstep. "We should cover this body before we get the girl down. She'll be more upset otherwise" he says softly to the others on the ground.
Kadaz Tuesday July 12th, 2005 7:20:32 AM
Kadaz agrees with Conner and moves to the door. He goes into the house and comes back with a blanket and puts it over Baldis' body.
Uriel illegal 2nd post Tuesday July 12th, 2005 8:52:35 AM
{OOC: Guys - I think it important that we read each others posts before posting. Uriel had already placed his cloak over the body after we heard it was Zully. Now we have 2 other posts devoted to doing the same thing. I don't mean to single anyone out, this has happened alot later with several different characters. It can be frustrating to others in the group because it is like you are invisible (but in a bad way) :)}
DM Kathy Tuesday July 12th, 2005 10:23:23 AM
Hearing the girl begin to cry, the group on the ground put their weapons away, realizing that this is a different kind of challenge altogether. Mira offers her help to Evan, and Conner suggests covering the body. Uriel takes off his cloak and moves to take care of that even as Kadaz is going into the house to find a blanket.
Kadaz is momentarily distracted, though, by Birdie's greeting. The dog is overjoyed to see Kadaz, and also seems a little upset. He presses close enough to be inconvenient and doesn't seem inclined to let you out of his sight.
Up on the roof, Evan gathers a sobbing Zully into his arms and tries to comfort her, but for now at least, she is still crying.
Shadow d20+2=6 d20+3=12 Tuesday July 12th, 2005 12:59:57 PM
Really not sure of what to do with the situation at hand will move to a position to cover the group while they deal with the body and the sobbing girl. He will keep a keen eye out for anything unusual (which has been most of the day). (Spot=6 and Listen=12)
Conner d20+1=4 Tuesday July 12th, 2005 4:20:29 PM
The fighter, normally so at ease with women, finds that a sobbing child is quite different. He looks around nervously, unsure about what to do next. (spot 4)
Kadaz Tuesday July 12th, 2005 4:23:59 PM
Inside the house Kadaz stops to reassure Birdie that all is now better. He gets down on a knee and allows the dog to lick his face. "I'm back, sorry to leave you behind." Kadaz explains. He tussles with the dog briefly, then comes back outside, one hand on the dog's back, to see what's going on.
(Sorry for missing Uriel's actions. And since I'm posting for Conner the fault is all mine. Post in haste, repent in leasure.)
Evan Wednesday July 13th, 2005 5:36:57 AM
Evan continues to hold and rock Zully, devoting all of his attention to her. He even starts to whistle softly to her, a soft, slow little tune, in the hopes of calming her down enough to be able to carry her down off the roof. With a gentle hand, he tenderly strokes the girl's hair and tries to wipe away the tears from her cheeks, offering a soft smile anytime she looks at him.
Arm d20+4=22 d20+4=24 Wednesday July 13th, 2005 5:55:11 AM
Feeling helpless, and not only because of the girl on the roof, Arm resorts to keeping an eye out for signs of trouble until the party decides what to do next (spot=22, listen=24).
Mira Wednesday July 13th, 2005 5:59:23 AM
Her heart going out to Zelly, Mira reaches her arms up to Evan and then pulls them back to herself a few times, willing to take the child down to insure the safety of both of them while getting off the roof.
Uriel d20+4=21 Wednesday July 13th, 2005 7:57:45 AM
Uriel takes advantage of the open door to the apartment to move Baldis inside and away from Zully. He will take him to his bedroom and examine him. Search:21
Wilfire Ironhouse Wednesday July 13th, 2005 11:02:18 AM
Wilfire regained his composure, for he knew of something that needed to be done...
"Sancta terra - mater nostra" he uttered as he placed a hand on the forehead of the fallen man.
DM Kathy Wednesday July 13th, 2005 12:33:30 PM
On the roof, Zully gradually calms to the point where Evan is willing to try to get her down. She is still crying softly, but no longer sobbing. Below, Mira stands ready to help get her down.
Uriel takes the opportunity to gather up the body of the leatherworker and take it inside. Wilfire goes with him to administer the rites of the dead.
Uriel's examination reveals little. Baldis is still wearing his work apron, suggesting he left his shop in a hurry. His wounds were obviously inflicted by one or more wolves. His dagger is missing; only an empty sheath hangs from his belt. His pouch contains a few coins.
In the house, Kadaz spends some time reassuring Birdie, then comes back out into the street. The dog still wants to be close--sometimes close enough to trip over.
In the street, the companions look and listen for further signs of trouble. The city seems relatively quiet for now, as evening falls. There are several buildings that have partly or completely fallen into the street, but the vines seem to have stopped their destruction as the sunlight waned. The flooding hasn't yet reached this street.
You realize that Zully's aren't the only sobs you hear. From here and there you hear faint sounds of grieving and prayers for the dead. In the distance, you hear people calling for the lost--family members, friends, loved ones who haven't come home and are not accounted for.
Evan d20+3=17 Thursday July 14th, 2005 5:44:21 AM
Once Zully has calmed down enough to move, Evan carries her to theedge of the building. Evan's choice on how to get her down off the roof will depend on how tight her grip is on him. If she is a loose bundle of little girl, Evan will lay down and lower Zully down to Mira, but if Zully has a fierce grip on him, he will move her arms so that they are clasped around his neck, then move her legs so they are wrapped around his waist, then he will slide off the roof to hopefully land safely, twisting to protect Zully should he fail to keep his balance upon landing. (dex-17)
Arm d20+4=24 d20+4=19 Thursday July 14th, 2005 5:52:10 AM
Not ready to go inside quite yet, Arm keeps an eye out for trouble until Evan and Zelly are down off the roof, and everyone is inside safely (spot=24, listen=19).
Mira Thursday July 14th, 2005 5:56:53 AM
Feeling fatigue to the depths of her soul, Mira waits for Evan to decide the best way to get Zelly off the roof. In the meantime, she thinks, "Who's going to take care of his children now that he's gone? And how many OTHERS are without their parents now, too?".
Conner Thursday July 14th, 2005 7:05:44 AM
Conner will move to poistion himself below Evan. "If you jump down I'll help steady you when you land." He readies himself to help keep Evan and the girl upright if needed.
Kadaz Thursday July 14th, 2005 7:10:42 AM
Kadaz looks more closely at Birdie. "What's the matter there?" he asks while peering deeply into the dog's eyes. His actions are puzzling. Does he sense danger nearby? What exactly happened while they were out?
"Everyone, Birdie here is acting very odd. I think we should search the house very carefully before we get too comfortable. And are there any footprints or wolf tracks around?" Kadaz will walk very slowly around the entire house looking for anything unusual (other than overgrown plants), and then start searching the common room.
Shadow Thursday July 14th, 2005 8:59:29 AM
Shadow, hearing Kadaz that they should search the house, moves to assist in the sweep of the house.
IF they find nothing Shadow is torn between his new companions and checking on the guild to see how much turmoil everything has caused. His weariness and the strength of the new bond with his companions wins out. "Let's get some rest, so we can face any new threats tomorrow." Shadow says.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday July 14th, 2005 11:06:01 AM
Wilfire assisted in the search of the house, and when that was done he went he addressed the others.
"Mayhaps plenty of wee ones stranded in'deh streets" he mentioned. "I wanna go lookin fer'em, an' if I find'em, I aim ta bring'em back. Too many in need fer us ta help'em all, but I aim ta help a few."
Wilfire began his search close to the house. He was looking for any that he might lend a hand, with healing, food, or shelter.
DM Kathy Friday July 15th, 2005 4:05:21 AM
Zully continues to cling fiercely to Evan, so he tries to climb down with her. It's not easy, but with a hand from Conner he is able to manage it.
Arm and Mira stay alert, but see nothing new.
Kadaz and Shadow look around the house, checking for anything unusual. They do see wolf tracks, all around the house. Birdie sniffs at them and growls.
Wilfire is all for going out and trying to save others if you can. It's a noble goal, but you are all exhausted. You've fought a running battle with wolves this afternoon. Will you follow Wilfire's example and look for others to help? Or will you rest yourselves for whatever might come tomorrow?
One thing is certain--you're going to have to deal with Zully, at least for tonight. Right now she is clinging to Evan with no sign of wanting to let go. Her sobs have subsided to low whimpers.
Evan Friday July 15th, 2005 5:33:30 AM
Once Evan and Zully are safely on the ground, he signs to Mira that he left his weapons on the roof, then carries Zully inside and into his room. He ignores any attempts from anyone else to take the child from him and climbs onto the bed, sitting with Zully in his lap. He continues to stroke Zully's back and hair in the hopes of calming her down enough that she will fall asleep, then closes his eyes, hoping to catch a little shut-eye, himself.
Shadow d20+2=4 d20+3=12 Friday July 15th, 2005 11:35:49 AM
Seeing Evan enter the apartment, with Zully still clinging to him, and without his weapons, Shadow concludes his weapons are on the roof. Shadow will head outside, "Mira, I will go ahead and get Evan's weapons down, don't worry about them. Help Evan out inside." Shadow says because he can get up on the roof easily and has no idea how to help with Zully.
While Shadow is on the roof he will look around from this vantage point to see if there is any danger near. If there does not appear to be any danger he will climb down and head inside to rest with the remainder of the group.
(Spot=4, Listen=12)
Mira Friday July 15th, 2005 11:42:49 AM
Her expression softening at the sight of Evan holding Zelly, much like the expression he gave to her a few hours ago, she signs back that she'll take care of it, and says to Arm, "Will you give me a hand getting up on the roof so I can get Evan's weapons?".
mira -oops Friday July 15th, 2005 11:44:51 AM
OOC: sorry about that...didn't refresh the screen. :)
Mira follows Evan into the house, still worrying about the future of the city, but resolute to do whatever she can to help Evan with Zelly.
Arm d20+4=23 d20+4=21 Friday July 15th, 2005 11:48:20 AM
Taking one last furtive glance around (spot=23, listen=21), Arm says to Wilf, "I'm sorry my friend, but I don't think I can fend off a mouse at the moment, much less another pack of wolves. If you still wish to go, good luck to you.". Saying so, he enters the house after Mira, leaving her to try to comfort the child while he goes to his room and falls asleep almost immediately.
Conner Friday July 15th, 2005 8:55:16 PM
"The trouble seems to be over for today. I say we rest the rest of the afternoon and then keep watch tonight, just in case." Conner proceeds to take his advice and heads inside to sit heavily on a chair.
Kadaz Friday July 15th, 2005 8:59:12 PM
"Wilfire, the day is still yound. If you want to visit neighbors I'll go along to guard. Birdie is restless and a walk would do him good." Kadaz takes up his weapon and shield and gets ready to set off again. No dwarf will ever show any signs of fatigue in front of a human.
Wilfire Ironhouse Saturday July 16th, 2005 1:16:41 AM
"I'd be welcomin' deh company" Wilfire replied as he set out with Kadaz.
Wilfire will start his search close to the apartment. He'll look around for any in need, especially younglings. If he finds any abandoned kids, he'll invite them back to the apartment. If he doesn't find anyone close to the apartment he'll expand his search a little.
OOC- I assume this is a forced march, but correct me if I'm wrong. If it is a forced march, Wilfire will search for people to help for 2 hours or until he becomes fatigued (whatever comes first), and then head back to the apartment. He will offer up any of his healing spells to the needy.
He will keep his search as close to the apartment as possible.
DM Kathy Sunday July 17th, 2005 11:06:29 PM
Evan takes Zully into the room he shares with Mira. The girl gradually calms enough to fall into a fitful sleep. Evan tries to follow suit, but realizes he's pretty hungry.
Shadow goes up to the roof to get Evan's weapons, then he and Mira also come inside. Mira is ready to help Evan, but he seems to have things under control.
Arm and Conner also return, and try to relax. It's the end of the day, and it's been a long one. Everybody is feeling the pinch of hunger; you can try to ignore it and sleep, or try to figure out some way to get a little supper before you rest.
Meanwhile, the two dwarves go out and begin combing the area, in spite of their fatigue and hunger. You live in a pretty decent neighborhood, really, and it's pretty clear that neighbors are already helping one another out. Most people seem to have some kind of shelter for the night.
You do find one little girl of about ten, sitting on the tumbledown remains of a building and crying her eyes out. As you approach, you see golden curls and a blue dress that was probably quite pretty before it got torn and dirtied. When the girl raises her head to look at you, however, you are horrified to see that in place of her nose is a pig's snout.
You bring her along, and in the next block find a little boy of perhaps six. You almost miss him; he has hidden himself amid some rubble and does not make a sound. He seems terrified, and will not speak. He does come with you, though.
As you return homewards with these two in tow, you pass by a family of kids camped amid the ruins of a house. A boy of perhaps 14 watches you approach and nods warily in greeting, one hand on the hilt of a sword that's still a bit big for him. Behind him, a girl of about 12 stirs something in a pot over their campfire. It smells wonderful, and you are suddenly reminded of how long it's been since you've eaten. At the fire is a younger girl with a toddler in her lap, and a young boy with one arm in a sling.
If you speak to them, the boy politely declines any invitation to leave the remains of their home, stating that they need to stay in case their parents come back.
Wilfire Ironhouse Sunday July 17th, 2005 11:37:05 PM
Wilfire offered the young boy and girl some trail rations, and looked them over for any sign of injury.
A little while later he spotted the family of kids, and did indeed invite them to come along. The boy refused, and so Wilfire instead offered healing to any in need, as well as directions to his home.
"If anythin happens, you turn tail and come a runnin" he offered.
With that done, he continued back to the house with the two children in tow. Once home he offered them some food, and gave them his bed to sleep in.
"Sleep well little ones" he said to them when they were comfortably in bed. "And don't yue worry 'bout'a thing. Uncle Wilfire be watchin over yue."
Wilfire would leave the inuire about the child's nose to Mira, when morning came.
Uriel Monday July 18th, 2005 12:14:37 AM
Uriel will hurry along to catch up with Kadaz and Wilfire after checking in on Zully and making sure her father is out of sight in his room.
Uriel tells the dwarves that he will remain with the group of children alone in the ruins.
Kadaz Monday July 18th, 2005 5:38:03 AM
Kadaz allows Wilfire to lead the conversation with the children they find. He keeps watch on the surroundings for threats but is very glad to see nothing else appearing. At the ruined house all he adds is "If the weather turns bad leave a note for your parents and then come to our place for shelter. They'll be able to find you there."
Conner Monday July 18th, 2005 5:40:13 AM
After a rest Conner's stomach starts rumbling. "I'm hungry. Any one want to come with me to check out Sampson's? I'll bring food back for those who stay here." Conner waits to see who wants to come with thim. But when he goes out it will be fully armed and armored.
Evan Monday July 18th, 2005 5:44:41 AM
Sighing with frustration over not being able to get some sleep because he is si hungry, he whstles softly so as to not awaken Zully, until someone hears him then he signs to them that he is hungry and asks if they will bring him something to eat. His eyes scan the room, his thoughts already on where the girl will sleep from now on, fully intending on keeping her if there is no family for her to go with.
Arm Monday July 18th, 2005 5:49:49 AM
His fatigue overcoming any thoughts of hunger, Arm sleeps the sleep of the dead (or near dead).
Mira Monday July 18th, 2005 5:52:15 AM
Mira acknowledges Evan's communication, and says to Conner "Evan would like some food as well, but he's going to stay here to look after Zelly if need be. I'll go with you to Samson's, as I'm sure you'll be needing help carrying the food back for us all. Let's make sure we pick up extra for Arm, as I'm sure he'll be hungry as well when he wakes up.".
Shadow Monday July 18th, 2005 9:22:16 AM
Shadow first thinks that he will go ahead and get some sleep, but his stomach nots up and he realizes he better eat something first. "I'll join you two." He says to Mira and Arm as they head out to Sampson's.
DM Kathy Monday July 18th, 2005 11:50:54 PM
Arm falls asleep despite the pinch of hunger, clearly exhausted. Evan can't quite manage to fall asleep, but is able to ask the others to bring him something from the tavern.
Conner decides to go across to Sampson's, accompanied by Mira and Shadow. The three of you cross the road and enter the tavern through the back way. The place is an absolute zoo. It would appear that many from the neighborhood whose houses are uninhabitable have sought shelter here, and all of them are looking for dinner. Moreover, the place seems to be short a server or two. The few on hand fly back and forth from the kitchen, looking harassed. Customers, meanwhile, are clearly trying to be patient, but many of them are at the end of their endurance. You can hear several children crying to be fed.
"Conner!" Hamm approaches the group, wiping his hands on his apron. "Have you seen aught of Amy?" he asks anxiously. "She was supposed to work this evening, but nobody's seen her, and with all that's happened....well, we're kind of worried."
Meanwhile, Kadaz and Wilfire bring home the two children that they found. Wilfire assigns them both to his bed, but the little girl wails in protest. She doesn't want to sleep in the same bed with some strange boy.
You eventually get her to agree to sleeping at one end of the bed while the boy sleeps at the other. He, meanwhile, still hasn't made a sound, and goes meekly where he is put.
Uriel decides to remain with the family of kids camped in the remains of their home. The older lad looks unhappy about this as he watches Kadas and Wilfire leave with the two other kids. "This really isn't necessary, sir," he says to Uriel. "I can look out for us, and my sister can keep an eye on the little ones. We'll be fine."
Evan d20+8=17 Tuesday July 19th, 2005 5:29:15 AM
Evan just sits with Zully, tenderly stroking her hair to keep her calm enough to sleep, and waits for food to be brought to him. As he waits, he listens to the sounds of the neighborhood, listening for any sign of danger to himself or Zully. (listen-17)
Arm Tuesday July 19th, 2005 5:57:47 AM
Still sleeping, Arm begins to dream of the very same place that he went to hear of the vote to wake The Sleeper, but this time he is by himself...so far, anyway.
Mira Tuesday July 19th, 2005 6:03:07 AM
Not daring to look at Conner for fear of what expression may darken his face, Mira says to Hamm, "No, sir...we have not seen any sign of her today, although we have been traveling much battling the wolves that have plagued us. You probably haven't heard, but Baldis is dead...his body was found right in front of our doorstep...TERRIBLE thing." In her sweetest voice, she continues, "I can clearly see that you're busy, but do you think you can get us some food to take back to the apartment? We are desperately hungry, and BADLY in need of sleep, and you never know what will befall the city from here on out.".
Kadaz Tuesday July 19th, 2005 6:55:20 AM
Kadaz slowly pulls off his armor and starts to clean it. But part way through he falls asleep in his chair and the armor slips to the floor. After a few hours we wakes, moves to the common room, and keeps cleaning, keeping watch through the small hours of the night.
Conner Tuesday July 19th, 2005 7:01:31 AM
At first looking forward to a good meal Hamm's news of missing Amy hits him like a falling tree. "Mira, I need to go find Amy. I must know how she is." Without waiting for a response Conner takes off at a run towards Amy's, hoping against hope that she'll be fine, just hiding under a bed or behind a door or something.
Shadow d20+2=18 d20+2=18 Tuesday July 19th, 2005 9:25:51 AM
Shadow struggles between his comradeship and his feelings of hunger and his tiredness. His new found companionship wins out however. glancing at Mira, "Get us something to eat if possible and get back to the apartment. I am going to help Conner because I am not sure he will be in the right state of mind to watch out for himself." With that he darts out trying to keep up with the desperate Conner. He will keep an eye and ear out for signs of danger. (Spot=18 and Listen=18)
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday July 19th, 2005 12:07:54 PM
Wilfire watched the kids drift off and waited for the others to return to the apartment.
Once they returned Wilfire suggested a watch order, and asked Mira if she would speak with the boy in the morning.
"Yer better with words den I" Wilfire said to her.
Uriel d20+4=14 Tuesday July 19th, 2005 10:50:11 PM
Uriel is undeterred by the words of the boy. Smiling, he shakes his head and tries to talk to the children to draw them out.
Diplomacy:14
DM Kathy Wednesday July 20th, 2005 1:26:54 AM
As Arm slumbers, Evan keeps a watchful eye on Zully, and Wilfire watches over "his" two kids while Kadaz drifts off to sleep.
At Sampson's, Mira is able to procure two small loaves of bread, some cheese, and a tin pot of stew. More would be nice, but since she's carrying it all herself, this will have to suffice. At the last minute, Hamm comes up and slings a wineskin around her neck. "On the house," he says with a faint smile, then returns to the common room.
Conner takes off in the direction of Amy's house, Shadow at his heels. He has a hard time getting there; not all the lamps are lit, and the streets are still flooded in many places. He is forced to take detour after frustrating detour, but he arrives at last at Amy's lodgings. He finds the house dark and deserted. The upper stories have crumbled under the onslaught of various plants, and the lower floor has got about two feet of water in it. There is no sign of Amy, or any of the other lodgers who used to live there.
Uriel spends some time talking with the kids encamped in the rubble. They tell him that their father is in the Guard and was on duty when the strange events began to occur. "Probably he's just really busy," the older girl says, anxiety clouding her eyes. The children's mother went to find her sister, their aunt, to see if she was all right, and has so far not returned. The kids are trying to be optimistic, but are clearly worried.
About two hours before dawn, though, their father arrives home. He appears completely exhausted, and his Guard tabard is stained and torn, but he's very glad to see his kids.
Evan Wednesday July 20th, 2005 5:37:28 AM
Evan slowly eats the food brought to him, taking very small bites, soaking the bread in the wine, trying to fool his belly into thinking its more. He eats only until the hunger pangs end then puts the rest to the side for Zully when she awakens. He offers Mira a grateful smile then drifts off into a restless doze, his dreams filled with the images he tried so hard not to see during the day.
Conner Wednesday July 20th, 2005 6:40:34 AM
"Amy! Amy!" Conner shouts as he rushes into the ruined house and starts searching the debris for any sign of Amy or other survivors. Where could she be? Did the wolves visit here? He suddenly stops as a thought hits him. Could they also have been shrunk? He starts moving much more carefully, looking where he places his feet, watching for tiny boats in the water.
Kadaz Wednesday July 20th, 2005 6:43:11 AM
When he wakes up, Kadaz is somewhat refreshed but not entirely so. He slowly works the kinks out of his muscles and then resumes cleaning his armor. Who knows what today may bring. But the thought of the wolf talons he took as a trophy brings a smile to his face - there's one monster that won't be bothering anyone else.
Mira Wednesday July 20th, 2005 7:18:47 AM
A bit nonplussed by Shadow's exit and leaving her to carry all of the food, Mira then realizes his concern for Conner and stoically accepts her task, thanking Hamm profusly for his help. She then returns to the apartment to share the food with those that are there.
Arm Wednesday July 20th, 2005 9:18:02 AM
Arm awoke with a start, still tired and not quite being able to shake the feeling that part of him was still at the dream-like inn. Feeling hungry, he heads to the common room, just in time to help Mira in with the food.
Shadow d20+2=15 d20+2=7 Wednesday July 20th, 2005 9:19:34 AM
Shadow hustles to keep pace with the worried fighter. He is very concerned for the fighter's safety in his headlong rush to find his possible girlfriend. When they arrive at the house, Shadow will remain outside to keep an eye on things. He is not sure of the welcoming he might get if there is anyone home. He will remain outside, but call in, "Any luck Conner?" (spot=15 listen=7)
Wilfire Ironhouse Wednesday July 20th, 2005 4:29:59 PM
Wilfire caught the smell of the food all the way from his room. By the time he reached the common room he had saliva dripping half way down his chin.
"Eider dere is'a lion in me tummy er I'm hungry" Wilfire joked as he sat down to eat. He remained quiet till he was about half way done his meal, at which point he turned to Mira and spoke.
"Picked up two wee ones on deh street" Wilfire explained as he removed one of the three pieces of food stuck in his beard. "One of deh kids has deh stranges' nose I ever seen. Pig like. Darndest thing."
"Anyhow, I'm wonderin if yue know anything about dat kinda thing. Also, maybe yue could speak with deh lad, and maybe spread a little cheer."
Uriel Wednesday July 20th, 2005 11:52:13 PM
Uriel wearily greets the father, glad for at least one happy ending.
He begins making inquiries of other survivors where the dead are being taken.
He then slowly makes his way back to the apartment. He makes sure Zully is asleep and wraps the body tighter before taking it away to the gathering of the dead.
Finally, at the edge of his endurance Uriel returns and collapses in his room after removing his breastplate.
Mira Thursday July 21st, 2005 6:08:16 AM
Mira begins to divide the food she brought amongst the people there, but also being mindful of the rest, she puts some on the side.
Arm d20+8=28 Thursday July 21st, 2005 6:14:04 AM
Seeing that Mira has things well in hand for the moment, Arm turns to Wilf and looks at him strangely for a moment...he cannot shake the feeling that he is also with him somewhere else at the same time.
Brushing it off quickly, he says, "I can try, my friend...but at this point I don't know what if any good I will do.". He goes to Zelly and says, "I feel your pain, little one...your father was a great man, in just the little time that we've known him we came to admire him. Unfortunately none of can can bring him back, or we would in a heartbeat. A LOT of us have experienced losses, and though I don't feel the loss as much as I'm sure you do, the Wold is a lesser place now. What we all need to do is remember the GOOD things about him, and take solace in the fact that he'll be watching over us from wherever he is now.". (diplomacy=28-natural 20).
ADM Scott (Post for DM Kathy - out of town) Thursday July 21st, 2005 9:17:27 AM
OOC: Sorry, but I cannot make posts late at night (early morning job), so posts for the next couple of days will be in the morning around this time (7:00 am MST)
Conner searches the main floor for both signs of life (tiny and otherwise), but does not find any signs of life. Trying to go upstairs is an almost impossible feat, but Conner makes it up the partially obstructed and destroyed steps. He finds that the upstairs is a shambles, even worse than the main floor, becasue of the wild growth of the plants. His search is futile for he finds no signs of life. He finally gives up on finding anyone in the house, and moves downstairs to rejoin Shadow. He does however spot a back door which he had missed before.
Meanwhile Shadow is quiet surprised by the silence that he is experiencing outsie the house. The normal hustle and bustle of the city is nonexistent because of the events of the last two days.
Back at the apartment, Zully awakes from her fitfull rest, and realizes where she is and what has gone on. She suddenly starts to sob again and clutches at the pillow she was sleeping on. As Arm tries to talk to her she breaks into small wails and sobs and Arm is not sure he is getting anywhere with her right now.
In the other room the two other children wake when they hear Zully's wails. The girl starts crying also, but the boy reamins silent looking around at where he is. The girls crying is interrupted on occaision by a snort from her piglike nose, which seems to make her cry even harder.
Uriel, after returning to the apartment from taking the body of Baldis to the makeshift morgue, drifts off to the sleep of the almost dead. He awakens when the commotion starts, but is unsure of what is going on.
OOC: We are all a little bit off on time, but I will make it up in tomorrows DM post. (I will get everyone back on time.) Arm and Mira you can post, but do not have to post for Thursday (since you made a post before I got the DM post out). Thanks for all of your patience.
Shadow Thursday July 21st, 2005 9:19:45 AM
Shadow remains outside because he has not heard anything from Conner but his shouts for Amy. He tries to remain vigilant, but the fatigue of the day is catching up on him. He finds himself nodding off on occasion as he waits for Conner.
After quiet a while Shadow worries about Conner and finally peaks in the house to see what is going on.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday July 21st, 2005 11:10:08 AM
Wilfire heard the girl crying, and asked Arm to accompany him upstairs.
"She's da one wit deh hog's nose. MAyhaps yue can speak wit her. And Mira, tink yue can give her a look as well... yue know plenty 'bout magic, an I'm tinkin magic gots somefin ta do wit it."
Conner Thursday July 21st, 2005 3:50:19 PM
Heartened not to find any bodied Conner goes to the door he just noticed. "Shadow, I'm going to check behind this door."
Kadaz Thursday July 21st, 2005 3:53:40 PM
Kadaz is sitting in the common room cleaning his gear when the children start crying. What now? he wonders. He looks down at Birdie. The dog has liked playing with children before, maybe he can cheer them up. "Birdie, come with me" he says. Kadaz gets up and walks over to Zully's room. "Zully, I'm busy now but Birdie here needs someone to pet him. Can you help?" Kadaz asks. Birdie jumps up on Zully's bed and lays down, waiting, somewhat warily, to see what will happen.
Uriel Thursday July 21st, 2005 8:16:20 PM
Uriel doesn't stir, exhausted from staying awake all night and then taking Baldis' body.
{OOC:I sent a note to Kathy about being out all next week away from my email - not sure about connectivity, so I may not be posting after this evening for a while}
Evan Friday July 22nd, 2005 5:34:36 AM
Evan pulls Zully back into his arms, rocking and softly whistling her to her he strokes her hair. He will hold her and comfort her for as long as it takes for her to calm back down. He certainly has no plans to take her anywhere. She will be safe with him for the moment.
Arm Friday July 22nd, 2005 5:57:29 AM
Distraught at his lack of assistance with Zelly, Arm nods to Evan and goes out to speak with Wilf. "I'll see what I can do, my friend, but I have exactly been having the best of luck with children.".
Mira d20+5=22 Friday July 22nd, 2005 6:01:10 AM
Mira pats Arm's shoulder gently in encouragement and says, "I'll do what I can for her, but I MUST rest if I am to be of any use to anyone...". That being said, she accompanies Arm to the child's side and attempts to calm her down as best she can, "There, there little one. You're safe with us, and we'll see what we can do about your nose.". (diplomacy=22).
DM Post (ADM - Scott posting for Kathy) Friday July 22nd, 2005 9:02:02 AM
Conner lets Shadow know that he is going to check out the back door, and moves to the door. It opens inwards and is a little tough because of the flooding to get open. When he does he sees that it is very dark in the narrow alleyway. There does seem to be a massive amount of debris in the alley, and it appears to be from the buildings. Once he uses some light (not sure what type of light source Conner has) he will have a better idea of what is actually back here. (Conner & Shadow do a spot check once you have a light source or can wait for an hour and it will start getting light out.)
Zully quiets down after Evan hugs here and she finally stops crying. She looks at Birdie, but does nothing other than hug the pillow and lean into Evan. After a couple of minutes of Birdie wagging his tail and looking at Zully hopefully, the little girl tentatively reaches out and touches Birdie's head. It looks like she will begin petting him any moment now.
Arm and Mira go into the room with the other two children and they attempt to comfort the little girl. They are successful and she stops sobbing. "My mom and dad left me because of my ugly nose. I was such a pretty girl before that nasty bug did this to me." The girl's voice starts out weak but gains in intensity until it is almost a shriek when she finishes.
The little boy on the other hand just stares at the big people and says nothing. Arm and Mira both can hear his stomach growling, but he says nothing.
Uriel is awoken by the sudden shriek of the little girl, and he is not sure what is going on. He did get a few minutes of quality sleep.
(Still did not get everyone on the same time, but we are getting closer.)
Shadow d20+2=17 Friday July 22nd, 2005 9:03:57 AM
"It is really strange, but the city is very quiet for what has been going on." Shadow says as Conner approaches.
"Lets take a look." Shadow follows Conner to the back door. They both peer into the alley. (Spot=17 If Conner has a light source or 15 if he does not.)
Conner d20+3=16 Friday July 22nd, 2005 3:09:32 PM
"I need to see what's in here before I can go home and rest." Conner is not sure what he is hoping for - nothing of interest or dead bodies? A live (and very grateful) Amy would be best of all but why hasn't she come out if she's in here and uninjured
Conner pulls a torch out of his pack and ignites it. But he carefully keeps his sword in his main hand as he lifts the torch up high - never know what may be hiding in here. He then looks ahead to see what is visible in the flickering torch light. (spot 16)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] Friday July 22nd, 2005 3:12:37 PM
In the main room Kadaz keeps watch on the comings and goings of the others treating the children. He thinks back to when he was orphaned and the guard took him in. Not too much different. If the kids stay Kadaz will make sure they get treated well. And that they learn something.
Wilfire Ironhouse Friday July 22nd, 2005 7:03:32 PM
"Tanks fer yer help" Wilfire said to Mira and Arm. "Maybe in deh morn we can git to deh bottom of what happened to dis girl, an maybe even help her out. In deh meanwhile, les' git some rest."
Evan Monday July 25th, 2005 5:37:24 AM
Evan smiles softly to Zully and reaches out to gently pet Birdie's head, encouraging Zully to do the same. He keeps his free arm wrapped around Zully so she'll feel safe.
Arm Monday July 25th, 2005 6:02:57 AM
Arm smiles wanly at Wilf and says, "The only problem there, my friend, is that it already IS morning, or close to it. We definitely need to get some rest though, for we know not what is yet to come.".
Turning to the little girl, he says, "Rest now, little one. We've ALL had a very long day...we'll see what we can do for you later, ok?". He then goes back to the common room, and returns with a bit of food that he leaves for her and the little boy, advising him to get some rest as well. Motioning to the door, he heads back to his room for more sleep.
Mira Monday July 25th, 2005 6:04:26 AM
Far past the point of exhaustion, Mira can only nod at Arm, and follows him out of the room. She heads to hers as well, letting Evan know she's going to get some sleep, and he should as well. Before her head hits the pillow, she's well on her way to a dreamless sleep.
DM Post (Scott posting for Kathy) Monday July 25th, 2005 9:20:51 AM
Conner struggles to get his torch lit at the same time he is looking around. He finally gets it lit and glances around the first level of the house again. He sees just how flooded the first floor is, and realizes that Amy and her family would not have stayed here. He moves to the back door and opens it up, and gets a really good look at the narrow alleyway. The alleyway is joked with debris from the falling houses on all sides, but there is a way to move down the alley if the two are willing to do a little bit of climbing. Conner is about to move down the alley when he spots something flesh colored attached to red cloth. From here he can not tell waht it is for sure. Shadow has joined him and spots the red cloth, also.
Arm brings in some food and shows the two little ones that it is for them. The two hesitate for a moment, but soon their hunger outways their mistrust. They fall onto the food and devour it very quickly. The boy watching Arm the whole time. The girl finishes her food and says, "I want some more." She looks at Arm.
Zully finally stretches out her hand to Birdie and gently starts to pet him. She looks much more relaxed, but Evan is unsure because her movemments are still shaky.
Wilfire and Kadaz see that everything in the house is being taken care of and are still very tired from yesterdays events.
Shadow Monday July 25th, 2005 9:21:47 AM
"What is that?" Shadow says pointing to the splash of red against the rubble. He will wait for Conner to move towards it because the area is very narrow, and he might get in Conner's way.
Wilfire Ironhouse Monday July 25th, 2005 2:44:13 PM
Wilfire yawned and rubbed his eyes.
"Either Mira cast a sleep spell on me or I'm all tuckered out. Wake me if anyting goes awry."
Wilfire will go to sleep, preferably in an unattended room so that the kids can sleep on their own.
Conner Monday July 25th, 2005 7:56:32 PM
"I don't know, Shadow, but I'm going to find out." Conner carefully picks his way down the narrow alley towards the spot of color. Did Amy ever wear anything that shade Red? Conner tries to remember but is too busy trying to keep his footing for anything to come to mind.
Kadaz Monday July 25th, 2005 7:59:22 PM
Kadaz keeps his eyes open until he is certain Zully is getting along with Birdie. Then he relaxes a bit and allows exhaustion to overcome him. His eyes flutter a bit and finally close. As he sits in a chair in the main room his chin hits his chest and he starts snoring through his beard.
Arm Tuesday July 26th, 2005 5:53:33 AM
Before he leaves for some well-deserved sleep, Arm says to the little girl, "Not now, little one. You don't want to make yourself sick, and we need the rest at the moment for those of us that have yet to return. We'll get us all more food later on, but right now sleep is more important.".
As he headed back to his room, he chuckles a bit as what he ALMOST said to her, "You don't want to make a pig of yourself.". He's sure, however, that Mira and the others wouldn't have taken kindly to that remark.
Mira Tuesday July 26th, 2005 5:53:58 AM
zzzzzzzzzzz......zzzzzzzzzzzzz......zzzzzzzzz
DM Post (Scott for Kathy on vacation) Tuesday July 26th, 2005 9:00:33 AM
Conner stumbles a little bit as he tries to get to the point where the splash of red is. When he gets about a foot away he does see that it is a sleeve of some sort of outfit, but is unsure of what type. He is however sure that the flesh that is exposed is a womans hand and wrist. His heart starts pounding as he imagines that it is Amy. There is a rather large pile of rubble covering the rest of the body. (Shadow and Conner will need to make strength checks to see if they can remove enough rubble to see who is under all of it.)
Back at the apartment, everyone is turning in for the 'early morning' since it is almost daylight out side. All is quiet after the three children finally fall back asleep. Everyone is awoken by a heart wrenching, shrill scream coming from Zully (about three hours after everyone gets to sleep). Evan is the first awake and looks at the little girl. "Your not my Papa, get away!" She scrambles to the corner of the room farthest away from the Ranger.
This sudden commotion wakes everyone up, and the two other children (in the other room) are startled by this and start to cry again. "I want my mommy! I want my mommy!" sobs the little girl with the pig nose. The little boy moves to the side of the bed farthest from any windows or doors and huddles on the floor crying.
Shadow d20=1 Tuesday July 26th, 2005 9:02:13 AM
Shadow attempts to help Conner in removing the debris from around the body. He seems to be getting good progress and they should be able to see who it is soon.
Arm Wednesday July 27th, 2005 6:03:11 AM
Shaking the sleep out of his head, Arm hurries to see what the cause of the commotion is. After seeing what has transpired, he says to Uriel, "We need to get these children to a temple. There's not much we can do for them anyway, and hopefully the priests there can provide them with some solace.".
Mira Wednesday July 27th, 2005 6:04:56 AM
Struggling out into the room just in time to hear the end of Arm's conversation, Mira says, "I must agree with Arm. None of us are capable of handling the terrors that these children face.".
Evan Wednesday July 27th, 2005 7:21:04 AM
Evan remains where he is, waiting for Zully to calm down. After all, it's not like he can say anything to comfort her and it's obvious she's terrified.
DM Kathy Wednesday July 27th, 2005 12:41:08 PM
[OOC: I'm back! Thanks, Scott, for filling in while I was away.]
Shadow and Conner work to remove rubble from the body they discovered, but it is slow going. The sky begins to lighten as they make the attempt.
Back at the apartment, the children are awake and demanding time and attention that you don't have. Arm suggests taking the kids to a temple, and Mira seems to agree. The question is, which temple?
You've all been to the Cathedral of Light, Alemi's temple, which under ordinary circumstances would be the logical choice. It's in the middle of the river, though, so it's unclear how much it may have been affected by the flood. Or whether any of the bridges leading to it are still passable.
Right here in the Trade Quarter are two temples, devoted to Caeroldra and Ffloy. Whether either one is an appropriate place to bring lost, frightened orphans is unclear. The temple of Gargul in the Hindquarter isn't a much better choice. A better bet might be the temple of Flower in the Gold Quarter, although getting there may be a bit of a challenge.
After her initial outburst, Zully seems to calm a bit. "Did-did Kethlorn make it here?" she asks tentatively.
Kadaz Wednesday July 27th, 2005 6:10:37 PM
Kadaz watches Zully from the room, unsure what to say. The truth seems a bit harsh but what is the alternative?
Conner d20+3=11 Wednesday July 27th, 2005 6:11:49 PM
Conner sees the buried arm begins to fling debris away, trying to uncover the poor unfortunate under it. Not Amy, no, it can't be. (strength 11)
Shadow d20=14 Wednesday July 27th, 2005 6:38:54 PM
Seeing Conner's distress (his flinging stuff faster and faster), Shadow tries to help, but tries not to get in the way of his companion. (Strength=14 forgot the +1 so 15)
Arm Thursday July 28th, 2005 6:05:50 AM
Unsure of what else to say, Arm says to Zelly, "We haven't seen him, but that doesn't mean that he's not ok...if you'd like, we'll help look for him later.". He tries to put on a brave face, even though he's not feeling very brave right now.
Mira Thursday July 28th, 2005 6:06:52 AM
Feeling about as useless as Arm right now, Mira sits down next to Evan and places her hand on his shoulder, trying to give him strength while at the same time trying to gain strength from his closeness.
Evan Thursday July 28th, 2005 8:19:53 AM
Evan frowns at Zully's question. His frown vanishes though, when Mira sits next to him. He offers her a soft smile then begins to sign, Ask Zully where she last saw Kethlorn. I'll go look for him. He motions for Mira to ask Zully, then signs again to Mira, Can we keep her here until we find some family for her? I don't want her to end up on the streets if there is no one to care for her.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday July 28th, 2005 11:38:06 AM
Wilfire said his morning prayers and then considered what to do with the children.
"Anybody up fer a walk ta deh Temple of deh Flower?"
DM Kathy Thursday July 28th, 2005 1:14:47 PM
Working frantically, Conner and Shadow uncover the body. Conner turns the woman over, and his worse fears are realized. It is Amy. The back of her skull has been crushed, and she is quite dead. He realizes vaguely that death probably struck quickly; in all likelihood she never knew what hit her. It is scant comfort.
Back at the apartment, the group is still trying to figure out what to do with their small charges. Zully's lip begins to wobble when she hears that Kethlorn is unaccounted for, but she takes a deep breath and manages not to cry. "We have to look for him," she says, eyes wide and fearful.
Wilfire, meanwhile, is all for a trek to the temple of Flower.
Arm Friday July 29th, 2005 5:41:51 AM
Arm says to Wilf, "I agree...let's see at least if we can make it there safely first before we chance taking the children.".
Mira Friday July 29th, 2005 5:48:39 AM
Mira nods at Evan and asks Zully, "Perhaps you can help us as to where to start looking for him. When was the last time you saw him, and where was he headed?".
Smiling warmly at Evan's comment, she signs to him, "I think we should ask the group what they think, but I don't have a problem with her staying here...the only thing is that I don't know what we'd do with her when we have jobs to do...I'd rather she not stay here by herself, and we can definitely use your prowess as part of the group.". While Evan tries to comfort Zelly, Mira stares at him with a mixture of admiration and feelings she's not quite sure she wants to face at the present.
Evan Friday July 29th, 2005 6:44:57 AM
Evan slides off the bed and holds his hand out to Zully. He taps his own chest, then points at Zully and Mira, then places a hand over his eyes to shade them and pretends to look all over the place. He signs, mostly so that Mira can translate but makes sure the signing is where Zully can see it too, Show us where you last saw Kethlorn
Shadow Friday July 29th, 2005 8:53:46 AM
"I am truly sorry for your loss, Conner." Shadow tries to console his companion. He is really unsure how to help his friend out any more, so he backs away and waits for his friend to grieve. "Where would you like to take her?" He will eventually say to Conner.
Conner Friday July 29th, 2005 7:04:16 PM
Tears stream down Conner's face as he morns over Amy's body. The fighter has seen too much death in the last 24 hours, most of it innocent blood shed for no reason at all. He says, mostly to himself "You didn't deserve this, none of them did." A few more moments pass on deep silence.
Eventually Conner turns to Shadow. "I'm not sure what to do next. But Amy can't lie here in this alley. We will carry her out and into a nearby home. Maybe Hamm back at Sampson's will know of her family." He starts to carefully free Amy from the debris, as if she could still feel additional hurt.
Kadaz Friday July 29th, 2005 7:07:58 PM
Kadaz wakes from his uncomfortable postion on a chair in the main room. He stays quite until he figures out what is going on. "If Kethlorn is missing we should try to find him. I feel we owe it to Baldis. And a child missing may be in danger."
DM Kathy Sunday July 31st, 2005 8:45:47 PM
At the apartment, Zully tentatively tells what happened. "Our house was falling down 'cause of the plants. Papa said it wasn't safe and we'd have to leave. When we went out into the street, it was all flooded. People said it was the river. We started walking and then--" her voice catches "--and then the wolves came." Tears begin to fall. "Papa said to go to your house because you could help us. Papa and Kethlorn started running. I tried to run, but the water was up over my legs and it was really really hard. So Papa picked me up and carried me. We were running next to Kethlorn, and then we weren't." Distress is evident in her voice now. "I didn't see where he went."
Meanwhile, Shadow tries to comfort Conner as the tattooed fighter extracts Amy's body from the debris. She proves to be a light burden, and he's pretty sure he can carry her anywhere they want--but where do they want to go? A nearby house? Back to Sampson's? A temple?
Kadaz Sunday July 31st, 2005 9:54:21 PM
Kadaz moves next to Mira to whisper to her. "If Kethlorn could, he'd be here by now." He then talks louder to Zully. "Lass, we'll go look for Kethlorn. But do you have any relatives in Plateau City? Somewhere Kethlorn may have gone instead?"
Conner Sunday July 31st, 2005 9:58:03 PM
As Conner walks he starts to think ahead a little. Just where to go? An abandoned home? One with occupants won't want Amy. And Sampson's won't be appropriate. "Shadow, any temples nearby? One that will take Amy? If we get her to one then we can go to Sampson's and find out if she has family nearby."
Mira Monday August 1st, 2005 5:06:08 AM
Mira hides her frown of frustration by prentending to cough, then whispers to Kadaz, "Yes, I thought that as well.". She then says to Zelly, "Not to worry, Zelly...we'll do our best to find him.". Even as she says this, she wishes that she had that confidence.
Arm Monday August 1st, 2005 5:47:34 AM
Leaning against a wall, Arm thinks, "Yes, we MAY find him, but in what state will he be?". As he stands there, he begins to wonder about Conner and Shadow and what's keeping them. He begins to contemplate asking Kadaz or Wilf to go and find them to make sure they're ok.
Evan Monday August 1st, 2005 7:41:08 AM
Evan listens quietly to Zully's tale then signs to Mira, I'll go find Kethlorn, stay with Zully until I return. If anyone can find him, I should be able to, now that I know where to look. Evan leans down to give Zully a kiss on the forehead then points at himself, places his hand over his eyes as if looking off into the distance, then waves bye to Zully. He heads out, pausing to study Zully's tracks and begins to try and backtrack her.
Shadow Monday August 1st, 2005 12:33:34 PM
"I am not sure, but the Temple of Flower is in the Gold Quarter." He says to the grieving fighter. He will walk silently along with Conner, and will only speak if there is a need. He wants to respect the fighter's grief.
Uriel Monday August 1st, 2005 11:21:39 PM
Uriel rouses himself from his exhausted sleep, befuddled and confused. He queries whomever is around about the situation and then goes over to try and comfort Zully.
DM Kathy Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 12:31:25 AM
Zully seems quite willing to be comforted, and seems to have faith in you all. After all, you helped her family before. She shakes her head mournfully in response to Kadaz's question. "No relatives in town," she says. "We have an auntie, but she lives far away."
The little girl with the pig snout seems to resent the attention Zully is getting, or perhaps she genuinely misses her family. Whatever the reason, just as Zully is calming, the other girl begins wailing "I waaaant my Maaamaaaaaa!" The boy remains as silent as he ever was.
Evan slips out to see if he can pick up Kethlorn's trail. [I need a Survival check for tracking.]
Shadow is quite right; there is a temple to Flower in the Gold Quarter, and it isn't too far from Amy's lodgings. It seems a logical place to go.
Mira Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 5:51:24 AM
Mira grips Evan's hand before he leaves, then signs to him "I'll do what I can...be safe". She then takes Evan's place next to Zelly and tries her best to comfort her.
Arm Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 5:53:37 AM
Getting a headache from the child's wailing, Arm says to Kadaz, "Perhaps playing with Birdie will take her mind off of things?". Resolute to stop standing around waiting, Arm tells those present that he will go with Evan, both as company and support as well as an extra set of eyes in his search.
Conner Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 6:41:09 AM
"Shadow, thank you very much for coming with me. Lead the way to this temple. We'll take Amy there and pray for her soul."
Kadaz Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 6:43:31 AM
Kadaz looks at the crying girl. "Arm, good idea." He calls Birdie to him and walks over to the girl. "Hello there, may my dog and I talk with you?"
Shadow Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 4:23:48 PM
Shadow silently takes the lead to show Conner and his burden to the Temple of Flower. Hopefully Conner will be able to put this behind him. Shadow thinks.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 4:47:59 PM
"Temple of deh Flower it tis den. Let's git goin".
Wilfire joins the group making for the temple. Once there he greets the local priests, and says a short prayer for the people of Plateau City.
Uriel Tuesday August 2nd, 2005 10:46:47 PM
Uriel suggests that the group take the children to a nearby temple, that is one of the most likely places for people to congregate.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 1:21:04 AM
At the apartment, Mira moves in to take over taking care of Zully. The little girl sniffles and makes an obvious effort to stop his tears. "Do you think they'll find him, Miss Mira?" she asks.
Shadow steps outside to give Evan a hand. [Shadow, give me a Search check, and I'm still waiting for a Survival check from Evan.]
Kadaz and Birdie approach the other little girl. "Dogs are dirty," she says loftily, then spoils the effect somewhat with an involuntary oinking noise through her piggy nose. Hearing it makes her cry all the harder. "I waaant to go hooooome!"
Uriel suggests taking the kids to a nearby temple, as you are ill-equipped to deal with them. The temple options are still the same: the Temple of Light (Alemi) will likely be difficult to reach; temples to Caelodra and Ffloy are closer but perhaps not appropriate. The Temple of Flower is more appropriate but farther away and possibly difficult to get to.
Wilfire sets off for the Temple of Flower (Jeff, Wilfire is not with Conner and Shadow right now, and has no way of knowing they're heading to the Temple of Flower. If you still want to head over there, you can, and you'll see the scenes described below. You can meet up with Conner and Shadow if you want to.)
Meanwhile, Conner and Shadow bear Amy's body to the Temple of Flower. The scene there is pandemonium. Yesterday's injuries and losses of life would have stretched the temple resources thin even without the effective loss of the Cathedral of Light. Without Plateau City's largest and best-equipped temple facility, the others are scrambling to take up the slack. You see refugee tents pitched all around the temple and hear the clamor of people crying out for food, for medicine, for care of their loved ones, and for finding their lost. Harassed-looking clerics and acolytes are rushing about doing what they can, but even the best of them can only be in one place at a time.
You are directed to a makeshift morgue--an awning-covered area at the back of the temple proper. There is a very young acolyte there, directing the placement of the dead and making careful notes of their identities on a piece of parchment. The corpses lie in long, neat rows, mute witnesses to yesterday's horrors.
Evan d20+9=21 Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 7:29:54 AM
Evan heads outside and begins following a path between Zully's home and his own. He attempts to pick up Zully's trail at the house then follow it back to Kethlorn's.
(tracking- 21)
Shadow Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 10:20:16 AM
OOC: Shadow is with Conner, I am not sure who was going to follow Evan.
IC: Shadow moves around the temple to the makeshift morgue. He waits for Conner to tell the acolyte Amy's name and any other information that he might know. "Conner, we should get back to the apartment soon. I don't like being away from the rest of the group." Just then his stomach growls, Shadow looks around embarrassed that his stomach betrayed him at this moment with so many hungry people around.
Arm d20+4=9 d20+4=13 Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 12:01:59 PM
Arm follows evan in his search, keeping an eye open for danger, the child, and Connor and Shadow. (spot=9, listen=13).
Mira Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 12:03:07 PM
Mira forces an encouraging smile and says to Zelly, "Whether they do or do not, I'm sure they'll try their best. The only thing we can do is HOPE for the best right now.".
Wilfire Ironhouse Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 4:03:29 PM
OOC- Actually my intention was to take the kids to the Temple of the Flower.
"Uriel, mayhaps Temple of deh Flower be deh bes' place for'em" Wilfire suggested, without knowing what the condition of the temple would be. "Anyone wanna join me and deh kids in walkin there?"
A short while later Wilfire set out with the kids, and whoever else was willing to go.
Conner Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 5:17:07 PM
Seeing the long line of bodies at the temple brings an even deeper cloud of depression onto Conner. He speaks to the young cleric in a flat voice, struggling to contain his feelings. "Her name is Amy. She works at Sampson's. I don't know of any relatives in the city. If I find out different I'll let you know."
Conner takes a final moment over Amy's body to pray to the gods to guide her soul. He then turns to Shadow. "Let's go home."
Kadaz Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 5:19:28 PM
Kadaz is instantly offended by this little slip of a girl who doesn't like dogs. He turns and walks away with Birdie. "Come on boy, I'll play with you" he says, trying to calm Birdie's hurt feelings.
When anyone goes outside, Kadaz is willing to go along - fully armed and armored because who knows what will happen these days.
Uriel Wednesday August 3rd, 2005 10:18:46 PM
Uriel says, "of course I will go to the temple with you, we should leave a note for our missing comrades of our location."
DM Kathy Thursday August 4th, 2005 1:27:13 AM
Evan tries to find tracks to determine where Kethlorn went. He finds it is easiest to start with Baldis's tracks--he knows where they end, after all, and he was carrying Zully which makes his trail stand out a bit. There is a confusion of many feet near him, though, and try though he might, Evan is unable to determine which of them might be Kethlorn's. He finally gives up and returns to the apartment, defeated.
The others are beginning to think that a trip to the temple of Flower in the Gold Quarter might be in order. Wilfire and Uriel [and Kadaz?] set off, attempting to find a route there before you attempt to bring the kids. [Right? I seem to recall that was the plan; if not, let me know.]
After some discussion, they decide their best bet is to basically re-trace the route you took to get home last evening--across the Buckler Bridge and through the Circus and Gladiator Quarters. You have to go carefully, stepping around collapsed masonry and avoiding flooded areas, but you do manage to find your way to the Gold Quarter and the Temple of Flower. You find the scene much as described earlier--too few clerics and acolytes trying to help too many refugees. The scene is very chaotic.
Conner and Shadow conclude their sad business and begin the journey home.
[The two groups at the Temple of Flower can spot one another, if you like.]
Back at the apartment, Mira has her hands full with the three orphans, although Evan and Arm re-join her after a while.
Mira Thursday August 4th, 2005 5:55:04 AM
Totally exasperated, Mira smiles gratefully as both Evan and Arm enter the common room. Without a word, she raises her eyebrows as if to say, "any luck?".
Arm Thursday August 4th, 2005 5:56:14 AM
Also not saying anything, Arm looks at Mira, then looks down at the floor, pretending to find something interesting about it.
Evan Thursday August 4th, 2005 8:07:20 AM
Evan pauses in the doorway and gives Mira a very slight nod of the head. His fingers move quickly as he signs, The tracks have been wiped out. We'll need to take Zully with us so she can show us his most likely hiding places. But I think both of us need some rest first.
Shadow Thursday August 4th, 2005 11:05:50 AM
Shadow is releived to be headed back to the apartment. He will remain silent, unless his companion wants to talk about what has happened.
Conner Thursday August 4th, 2005 4:49:22 PM
On the way home Conner starts to talk about Amy. "Did you know she liked rainbows? And the way rain drips from leaves after a rain? And she hated rude customers?" He will talk on for a while, getting a grasp on the fact Amy has died, talking through the times he spent with her.
Part way home he sees Wilfire, Uriel and Kadaz walking towards them. He looks up and they know instantly from his face that Amy is gone.
Kadaz d20+1=3 Thursday August 4th, 2005 4:51:25 PM
Kadaz heads out with Wilfire and Uriel, partially to see if there's anything constructive he can do and partially to just get away from the whining children. He knows very well what they're going through but he has no desire to relive his experience through them.
On the way he keeps a sharp eye out for threats, especially small fey. But the city is so changed, with buildings thrown down, flooded houses, and enlarged plants that he is busy mentally comparing old to new. (spot 3)
Mira Friday August 5th, 2005 5:59:04 AM
Mira coughs briefly to hide her dismay, and tries to comfort Zelly as best she can.
Arm Friday August 5th, 2005 6:00:30 AM
Not sure where to proceed next, Arm's thoughts wander once again to Shadow and Conner, and he seriously considers going back out to look for them.
Uriel d20+3=19 Friday August 5th, 2005 8:09:29 AM
{Kathy, I thought it was understood from Wilfire's post and mine that we were going to be taking the children with us to the temple}
Uriel looks hard at the surroundings while the newly formed group walks as well. {Spot:19}
In particular he is looking for my signs of the fae or the sort of opportunistic malcontents that would take advantage of the tragedy to steal or loot any of the shops.
DM Kathy Friday August 5th, 2005 9:36:46 AM
[skipping ahead a bit]
Having found a relatively safe route to the temple of Flower, you are able to return there with the kids in tow. You put them in the hands of one of the clerics, who looks put-upon but manages to find places for them.
The boy goes with them in a kind of a daze, still not responding to much, but the little girl with the pig nose pitches a fit, and Zully clings tightly to Mira's hand at the prospect of being left with strangers. "Can't I stay with you?" she whispers.
You are at last able to extracate yourselves however, and begin making your way through the city, assessing damage. There is plenty of that to go around. Some areas are still flooded, and collapsed buildings are everywhere. Whole sections seem completely uninhabited; nobody has even seen to the bodies of the dead, which lie in the morning sun.
Uriel keeps a sharp eye out for looters, but you haven't seen any so far. You figure it's only a matter of time, though.
Perhaps most ominously, you begin to hear the cracks and creaks as yet more buildings begin to crumble. The plants growing up over the buildings have apparantly re-awakened with the morning sun and have once again begun their destructive work.
Evan Friday August 5th, 2005 5:02:47 PM
Evan moves to Zully and picks her up in his arms. He frowns and shakes his head whenever anyone tries to take her away from him. Unless stopped, he takes Zully back with him to the house.
Conner Sunday August 7th, 2005 7:22:34 AM
Conner heads back to the house while the others take the children to the temple. Once there he collapses into his bed - he spent last night searching and the previous day fighting and now he is exhausted.
Kadaz Sunday August 7th, 2005 7:25:23 AM
Kadaz helps deliver the children to the temple. On the way back home he is amazed at the changes in the city in a short period of time. It's like some power has decided to destroy the city.
At home he go outside and starts swinging his axe, chopping down vines. Maybe he can prevent the vegetation from destroying their home.
Shadow Sunday August 7th, 2005 12:32:55 PM
Shadow follows Conner back to the apartment and is almost asleep on his feet by the time they get back. Unless something poses an immediate threat, Shadow will fall into bed and be quickly asleep. Even his growling stomach cannot keep him awake.
Mira Sunday August 7th, 2005 12:53:21 PM
Mira takes Evan's hands, and, her eyes fixed on the ranger's she tries to hold his gaze as she whispers to Arm, "Take the child. Quickly." The sorcerer steels herself for the expected wails and Evan's response. Holding the man's hands, more suited to sword and axe, firmly in her own, she struggles to keep emotion from her voice. There are a thousand reasons why the children would be better served by being left at the temple, but how does one argue against an instinctive feeling such as that which grips the ranger? "It's the right thing to do," is all she can say, hoping her empathy for his feelings can be read in her eyes.
When the children have been led away, she wraps an arm around Evan's waist, "Let's go home." She looks meaningfully at the others as if to say, 'help me get him back!' and then makes to leave the temple.
++++++
Back at the house, she watches as Kadaz cuts away the vegetation clinging to their flat. She understands the expression of frustration. She too wishes to be active and fight this thing, whatever this thing is. Her eyes slide over to Arm and she wonders if this has anything to do with the awakening of which the elvish scholars spoke.
(OOC: I'm back! Thanks Lenny. You did great!-Carla)
Uriel Sunday August 7th, 2005 10:51:13 PM
Uriel does his best to aid in the situation with Evan and Zully, his own eyes seem unusually watery as the group makes its way back to the apartment.
Uriel stays silent, watching but not aiding the dwarf's vine hacking.
Arm Monday August 8th, 2005 5:56:12 AM
Arm takes the child from Evan, saying to her "It's too dangerous for you to stay with us, Zelly. Not to worry, we'll look in on you when we can.". He then hands her over to the cleric and makes his way back to the apartment with the others. Looking around at the devastation, he can't help but wonder if his "no" vote has brought this upon the City or not. Once back, he helps Kadaz with removing the vines from the house, though it seems a losing battle.
OOC: You're quite welcome Carla, hope you had a good trip! :)
Evan Monday August 8th, 2005 7:29:17 AM
Evan watches, heartbroken as Arm takes Zully away from him, not resisting Mira's grip. Tears spring into his eyes as he watches, unable to even reply with Mira holding his hands. How can they possibly leave Zully with strangers? She needs to be with people who care about her. She's lost everyone else and is all alone. Evan looks at Mira, pleading with his eyes as the tears slide down his face.
In a daze, Evan allows Mira to guide him back to the flat, his only thought the vision of Zully as she was taken away and given to the priestesses.
DM Kathy Monday August 8th, 2005 12:26:06 PM
Your parting from Zully was indeed heartbreaking. She asked repeatedly if you would come and visit her, apparantly needing reassurance. She also begs you to tell Kethlorn where she is, if you see him.
Soberly, you return to your lodgings. Conner and Shadow lie down for some much-needed rest, and Kadaz and Arm take the battle to the vines that are continuing their assault on your home. Elsewhere on your street, others are likewise battling the foliage, trying to preserve the structures that remain standing. Sampson's is providing free drinks to those who keep their building clear of plant growth.
It's getting on for sunset, and Conner and Shadow have awakened, when you begin to hear the commotion--terrified screams and cries of townsfolk coming from the direction of the flooded-out Merchant's Quarter. It would seem that the assault on Plateau City continues.
Shadow Monday August 8th, 2005 4:45:40 PM
Shadow is just waking up and is about to find something to eat when the commotion starts. He says, "We need to get our stuff together." He starts to get all of his gear together, and once ready he will wait for the rest to get going.
Conner Monday August 8th, 2005 5:54:18 PM
Conner is startled awake by the screams from outside. A cold sweat envelops him and the image of Amy, trapped and screaming as the walls tumble down upon her is replaced by the inside of their lodgings. It takes a moment for the tattooed fighter to understand the nightmare that was triggered by others in distress.
A look of pure determination crosses his face as he don's his armour and straps his shield to his forearm.
Wilfire Ironhouse Monday August 8th, 2005 8:02:21 PM
"Here we go again" Wilfire yelled aloud as he collected his things and ran towards the commotion.
Mira (AC13, HP 28) Monday August 8th, 2005 8:53:28 PM
Mira feels sick as she witnesses the obvious distress of the ranger. She can't help feel responsible. Would he find a greater calling defending the temple and caring for the children it shelters? Is she being selfish asking him to turn his back on Zully and come away with her?
And yet, amidst all this chaos, the sorcerer has found some previously untapped reserves. Her application to her magics and the study of her scrolls is rewarded with new abilities!
Remembering that there were others from Plateau City at the gathering of the elves, she sidles up to the bard and makes a gentle enquiry. "Arm? Do you think any of this," she waves her hand in the direction of a pile of chopped and hacked greenery, "has anything to do with the Awakening of the prophecy?" Then she remembers the bard's anguish during the elven song, "but you sang against him didn't you?"
The conversation is cut short by the cries of townsfolk. Mira's emerald green eye's hold the bard's for a moment. She thinks she sees golden flecks in their depths, but when he shifts his weight, they are gone. Almost imperceptably she whispers "I'll get my stuff."
(OOC: Kathy, Mira levels up with the XP awarded. Is she permitted a shopping trip to the Catacombs, or will that have to wait?)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] Monday August 8th, 2005 8:54:56 PM
Outside, Kadaz has spent a weary day hacking vines. Once he got ahead a little he'll spare some time for helping to clear Sampsons of growth.
Birdie was intially puzzled by the strange activity. But he has gotten into the spirit of the day by growling and snapping at every flower he passes.
As dusk falls Kadaz is taking a break outside, sitting on the ground and cleaning the sap off his axe. When he hears battle sounds from nearby he perks up immediately and shouts to warn the others. "They're back! Time to go!"
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} Monday August 8th, 2005 10:18:35 PM
Uriel grins grimly as he picks up his weapons. "I was hoping for something more to do against this foe. Let's go crack some heads!"
Arm Tuesday August 9th, 2005 6:03:14 AM
Arm grimaces at Mira, then says, "Aye, I DID vote against it...now I hope we are not being punished BECAUSE of it.".
Hearing the cries, he grimly draws his sword and waits for Mira to gather her things before they again move out.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Tuesday August 9th, 2005 8:14:45 AM
At the sound of screaming, Evan pulls himself out of his fog and quickly slips his gear on, then heads for the door to join the others.
DM Kathy Tuesday August 9th, 2005 10:08:08 AM
You gear up and rush in the direction the cries are coming from. Soon you begin to pass townsfolk, fleeing in the opposite direction. When you at last reach one of the flooded streets of the Guild Quarter, you see what the commotion is about.
Four obviously dead bodies are advancing menacingly down the street. Their wild, frantic eyes burn with malevolence.
[Combat map to follow. You guys are about 40 feet from the walking corpses, and movement is halved through the flooded street. That is, if your normal speed is 30 feet, you can move 15 feet on a single move.]
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+7=12 d20+5=16 Tuesday August 9th, 2005 4:43:12 PM
Kadaz orders Birdie to wait at the water's edge. A swimming dog isn't going to help much. Birdie obeys and sits, whining at having to sit out this fight. He looks around for any plants to chew. (Kadaz - handle animal 12, Birdie spot 16)
Kadaz starts wading slowly towards the oncoming creatures, shield and axe held high to keep them dry. He takes a practice swing to get a feel for fighting in water. And he tries to think ahead to plan the battle. "Wilfire, let them come to us for now, don't try to send them way. We're better equipped to handle them than others in this city."
Kadaz suddenly has a unsettling thought. "Does anyone know if those things can swim underwater?" Kadaz takes a look around at the dirty water. That would be a nasty surprise. (movement rate 10')
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} Tuesday August 9th, 2005 7:52:35 PM
Uriel casts magic weapon on Arm's crossbow before moving forward. "This should aid your missle attacks friend Arm," Uriel says.
"Mira, Arm and Shadow should all concentrate on ranged attacks, preferrably on one target while the rest of us close to melee," Uriel suggests.
He will have shield and longsword out as he moves forward slowly, keeping pace with Kadaz.
Conner [AC=22, HP=44] d20+10=22 d8+6=10 Tuesday August 9th, 2005 8:12:55 PM
Conner wades out in the water to await the approach of the undead creatures He slashes at the first creature that gets within his range [Hit AC=22 for 10 dmg]and prepares to defend himself.
Mira (AC17, HP 28, Mage Armor) Tuesday August 9th, 2005 9:40:09 PM
Mira's eyes shine in admiration as Uriel takes a leadership role. With only a moment to spare, the sorcerer casts a quick spell surrounding herself with an invisible but tangible field of force.
DM Sanity Info:
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+5=19 d4+1=5 Tuesday August 9th, 2005 9:51:25 PM
Shadow waits until the group of warriors moves towards the walking dead. He will then let loose an arrow at the one farthest to the groups left (#4). "Take that and hopefully you will return to the realm of the dead." (to hit=19 dmg=5)
Arm d20=19 d8+1=7 Wednesday August 10th, 2005 5:59:39 AM
Arm fires at one of the creatures, hitting it solidly (attk: 19, dmg: 7)
OOC: Sorry, but I don't have my book in work here...what exactly does "magic weapon" do?
DM Kathy Wednesday August 10th, 2005 12:11:20 PM
[OOC: I may have mislead you about the extent of the flooding. The water is about knee-deep. A bit deeper on the dwarves and Birdie, but nobody should be swimming or worrying about keeping a head above water. It's just a question of slogging through it, which slows you down somewhat.]
Telling Birdie to stay where he is, Kadaz wades forward. Uriel casts a spell on Arm's crossbow, then also moves foward.
Conner moves forward as well, ready to strike if anything should approach.
Mira casts a spell. Shadow and Arm fire at one of the creatures. Both score solid hits, and creature #4 now appears wounded.
[Len, Magic Weapon adds +1 to your "to hit" and damage rolls.]
The creatures also move foward, but are also moving more slowly because of the flooding. They stop short of Conner, Kadaz, and Uriel, seeming to realize that the fighters are ready for them.
"Join us in oblivion," one of them rasps in unearthly tones. "Better now than when He arrives."
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+5=23 d4+1=4 Wednesday August 10th, 2005 5:13:46 PM
Shadow hears the creature say something about 'when He arrives'. Shadow shudders a little at the thought of something that would be so despicable as to raise the dead. He puts his best face on and raises his bow once more to try and take down one of the creatures. "Go back to oblivion then." He says as he lets go. (firing another arrow at #4, to hit=23 dmg=4)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+10=12 d10+4=5 Wednesday August 10th, 2005 5:23:23 PM
Kadaz takes a 5' step forward and readies himself. He will swing if one of these creatures comes within reach. But for now more information would be good. "Who is this 'he' you refer to? If I had more knowledge of him I'd be able to consider your offer." (if one comes within reach, attack 12, damage 5).
Mira (AC17, HP 28, Mage Armor) 2d4(4+1)+2=7 Wednesday August 10th, 2005 8:13:13 PM Ye-ah! Oblivion! I've been there once before, thinks Mira as she remembers her first...and last experiment with Flaming Green Gnomish at the Giggling Ghost. With a rueful look at the undead creatures, she focuses her energies and shoots 2 balls of energy over Conner's shoulder at enemy #1 (7 pts. dmg).
DM Sanity Info:
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile#, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Conner [AC=22, HP=44] d20+10=26 d8+6=12 Wednesday August 10th, 2005 8:27:45 PM
Conner neither knows nor cares who 'He' is. The trials of the last several days have taken their toll and the burly fighter seeks retribution for the death of Amy. He steps forward into battle, his longsword slashing into this new enemy, hissing as it cuts through his foe [Hit #1 AC=26 for 12 Dmg].
Conners massive arms drive the sword into his enemy and the bloodlust of battle overcomes him. He snarls something unintelligable at his opponent and the tattoo that runs across his temple deepens in color.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} d20+8=28 d20+8=24 d8+5=9 d8+5=13 Wednesday August 10th, 2005 11:09:04 PM
Uriel steps up and swings through at one of unwounded undead.
"Back to the damned hells with you!" he yells while swinging.
{Hit AC:28 possible crit AC:24 for confirmation Dmg:9 Dmg:13 Total:22}
Wilfire Ironhouse d20-1=17 2d6(1+4)+2=7 Thursday August 11th, 2005 1:49:17 AM
Wilfire would not let fear distract him. Nor would he allow the fury of battle to cloud the connection required to smite these perversions of life.
"Vile wickedness!" Wilfire began with holy symbol held in hand. "Taste deh light of purest white. Recoil! Recoil!"
OOC- Turn Undead Turn- 17 (most powerful is HD 5) Effect- 7 HD (destroyed if half HD)
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Good Hope Thursday August 11th, 2005 7:47:41 AM
Evan drinks down a potion of Good Hope then glides forward 15 feet, drawing his sword and axe, ready to meet the undead.
DM Kathy d20+3=7 d20+3=21 d4+1=5 d20+3=10 d20+3=9 d20+3=16 Thursday August 11th, 2005 11:59:00 AM
Shadow fires again at #4, who is starting to look pretty wounded.
Kadaz steps forward 5 feet and stands ready. Mira shoots a couple of Magic Missiles at #1.
Conner steps up to #1, who attacks him (readied action) but misses. Conner does not miss, and takes a good-sized chunk out of the creature.
Uriel steps up to #3, who is also readied. The creature attacks, and hits the paladin for 5 points damage. Uriel feels a pull, as if the creature is trying to drain the very life-force from him! [Make a DC 14 Fort save or lose a level!] In return, Uriel strikes a solid blow [can't crit undead, though].
Wilfire displays his holy symbol and orders the undead to begone. Evan drinks a potion and moves forward.
The creature closest to Wilfire (#3) turns and flees. Uriel gets an Attack of Opportunity. Meanwhile, #1 attacks Conner and misses; #2 steps up and also attacks Conner, missing also. #4 steps up to attack Uriel, but his blow clangs off the paladin's armor.
"He comes to destroy the city," #1 rasps. "None can stand before his wrath," adds #4.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:38/43 Aura of Courage} d20+9=26 d20+8=28 d8+5=13 Thursday August 11th, 2005 2:36:27 PM
Uriel stumbles slightly and his vision dims under the life-draining attack of the undead.
A small glow eminating from his fist of Domi prevents the theft of energy however. {Fort Save:26}
In answer, Uriel swings visciously at the creature as it tries to flee.
{Hit AC:28 I would roll all of these on creatures that can't be critted! Dmg:13}
Conner [AC=22, HP=44] d20+8=23 d20+6=17 d8+6=14 d6+4=5 Thursday August 11th, 2005 5:35:25 PM
"Stand before my wrath then" the fighter snarls at his opponent as he brings his sword down with a grunt of exertion [Hit #1 AC=23 for 14 HP]. If #1 remains standing, Conner follows his sword with a shield bash, bringing the sharpened shield spikes up and into the creature's face [Hit AC=17 for 5 HP]. Otherwise he re-directs the attack against #2 for the same effect.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+10=23 d10+4=9 Thursday August 11th, 2005 6:16:46 PM
"That's enough for me! No one threatens my city!" roars Kadaz. He steps forward and swings at the undead in front of him and hits. (attack 23, damage 9). In the back Birdie gets up and starts to pace, trying to figure out how to avoid the water but still get to the fight.
Arm d20-3=14 d8+2=5 Thursday August 11th, 2005 6:59:02 PM
IF there are still any left, Arm takes aim at one that is still standing and again fires (attk: 4 - dmg: 5).
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+5=24 d20+1=20 d4+1=4 Thursday August 11th, 2005 7:52:07 PM
Shadow will launch another arrow at #4. (to hit=24 dmg=4 [yeah I wish he could do a d20 with an arrow-lol forgot to change to a d4])
Mira (AC17, HP 28, Mage Armor) 2d4(3+1)+2=6 Thursday August 11th, 2005 10:39:04 PM
With practiced movement, Mira does what she does best and two missiles roar past Conner to strike the enemy. (6 pts. dmg. to #1. If #1 is down, then #2)
DM Sanity Info:
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile##, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
Wilfire Ironhouse d20-1=11 2d6(6+4)+2=12 Friday August 12th, 2005 1:53:36 AM
Wilfire moves forward with his holy symbol out in front of him.
"RECOIL I SAY! RECOIL!"
OOC- turn undead Max HD= 3 HD effect= 12 HD worth of undead (destroyed if half HD)
Arm Friday August 12th, 2005 5:51:50 AM
Arm advances a bit to see if he can get a better shot at any of those remaining.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Good Hope d20+6=26 d20+6=9 d8+5=8 d20+8=13 d6+5=9 Friday August 12th, 2005 8:18:57 AM
Evan moves forward to attack the zombies (#1) his sword and axe flashing. (sword 26, no crit, dam 8; axe hit ac 13, dam 9)
Uriel {AC:19 HP:38/43 Aura of Courage} d20+9=27 d8+5=12 Friday August 12th, 2005 10:08:15 AM
{I didn't take my normal attack - oops!}
Uriel swings at the nearest creature unless he thinks he can get another attack on #3.
Hit AC:27 Dmg:12
DM Kathy Friday August 12th, 2005 11:18:45 AM
Uriel chops at the one undead as it flees. He does not bring it down, but it's looking considerably the worse for wear.
Conner's sword finishes off #1, and he turns and bashes #2 with his shield. Kadaz steps up and takes another chunk out of #2.
Shadow fires another arrow at #4, and Mira sends two more magic missiles at #2.
Wilfire again displays his holy symbol and demands that the foul creatures flee. Arm moves up into better position.
Evan also moves forward. #1 is down, but he can get close enough to strike at #2. His blow is solid, and the creature falls.
Uriel's attack finishes off #4.
The only remaining creature now is #3, who continues to flee. It is about 60 feet from Evan, Conner, Kadaz, Uriel, and Arm; and about 80 feet from Shadow, Mira, and Wilfire.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] d20+1=16 Friday August 12th, 2005 6:48:57 PM
Kadaz looks around carefully to see if anything else threatens them. Hip deep in water that is knee deep to the humans, he growls "If I'd wanted a bath I'd of brought soap." (spot 16)
Conner [AC=22, HP=44] Friday August 12th, 2005 11:05:36 PM
The fighter wades out further into the water in pursuit of the fleeing creature. "Come, it must harm no others." Sword at the ready,he pushes through the water as quickly as he can.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:38/43 Aura of Courage} Saturday August 13th, 2005 12:48:28 AM
Uriel pushes ahead also, going as fast as possible to catch up.
"Don't let anyone lag too far behind. We don't want to be strewn out across the city. We don't know how many more of these things there are in the city!" he says.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Good Hope Saturday August 13th, 2005 8:03:40 AM
Evan moves forward, sheathing his blades and pulling his crossbow off of his back.
Shadow d20+5=22 d4+1=4 Saturday August 13th, 2005 6:09:46 PM
Shadow sees the group move forward after the fleeing undead. He moves as quickly as he can to see if he can get a shot off at the creature. When he gets within bowshot (60') he will let loose (to hit=22 dmg=4).
Wilfire Ironhouse Sunday August 14th, 2005 11:16:44 AM
"'Old yer fire!" Wilfire yelled out as he chased after the creature. "Maybe it'll lead us to somefin."
OOC- Move at top speed towards creature
DM Kathy Sunday August 14th, 2005 11:36:23 PM
The fighters (and Wilfire) begin moving off after the fleeing undead. Within a few steps, you realize that this isn't going to work. You can't run in the flooded street, and your movement is no faster than the creature you're chasing. You're never going to catch up enough to engage it in melee.
Shadow, however, can get close enough to get a shot off. His arrow pierces the creature, and it falls into the water with a splash.
Wilfire recalls that, when turned, undead simply flee directly away from the cleric who turned them. Unless the creature's lair happens to be direcly opposite of where Wilfire was standing, it would not have been leading you back there.
Mira Monday August 15th, 2005 12:46:14 AM
Mira thinks about shooting another missile after the retreating figure, but when it looks like Shadow pinged him, she lowers her arms. "Now where do you think they came from?" she asks out loud.
Arm Monday August 15th, 2005 6:00:11 AM
Arm looks at Mira and replies, "I know not, but I think it's best we find out lest we and the town are besieged by MORE of the likes of them.".
Eva n d20+9=20 d20+9=22 d20+6=21 Monday August 15th, 2005 7:26:09 AM
Evan will continue to move down the flooded street, crossbow at the ready as he searches for any sign of the zombie's passing. (track-20, spot-22, search-21)
Conner Monday August 15th, 2005 7:41:55 AM
"Good shot! Square between the shoulder blades!" Conner thumps Shadow on the back in congratulations.
Kadaz d20+1=12 Monday August 15th, 2005 12:46:12 PM
Kadaz turns to Shadow to compliment him. "Good shooting." He then moves into the intersection and slowly turns in place, looking carefully in all direction, checking out the roofs, and even watching the water for unusual ripples. (spot 12)
Shadow d20+2=8 d20+2=18 Monday August 15th, 2005 6:06:05 PM
Shadow watches as his shot takes the creature in the back. He is on one hand happy that his shot hit and took the creature down, but on the other hand is not sure about how he should feel about taking an opponent down running away. He then reminds himself that it was a creature of pure evil since it was undead. Just as he is coming out of his reverie he almost falls to the ground from the congratulations of Conner. "Thanks." He mumbles as he tries not to fall over, and rubbing his shoulder where the fighter thumped him.
He hears the worry from the others about more of these creatures and starts to look around. (spot=8 listen=18)
Uriel Monday August 15th, 2005 9:19:09 PM
Uriel surveys his friends for injury, assuming none are injured he heals himself.
"We should indeed look for more of these creatures. I doubt we found the only 4 in the city" Uriel says.
DM Kathy Monday August 15th, 2005 11:17:39 PM
You spend some time looking around, but if there are more of these creatures, they are not in the immediate area. You leave the flooded streets, glad to be on (relatively) dry ground again.
As you make your way homeward through the evening dim, you come upon a group of townsfolk having an animated discussion. "--hundreds dead, and the Cathedral cut off from us," a man is saying as you approach.
"The children are so frightened," adds a woman. "I want to leave town, but where could we go? I just don't know what to do."
"I'll tell ye what we ought to do," another man says angrily. "We ought to run those pointy-eared traitors out of town." A few in the group seem inclined to protest, but the man continues. "Who was it had that strange dream? The elves. Who was it decided to awaken this Sleeper person? The elves. Way I see it, they're the cause of all this."
A few of the group still look doubtful, but the number who seem to be agreeing with the angry man is a little disconcerting. "Always think they're better'n everyone else," another man grouses.
"And now see what's come of it!" a woman adds. "Naught but trials and sorrow, and all because the elves had to decide everything. They decided, but we're the ones who suffered for it!"
As you move past the group, a few of them notice Arm's elven features and glare at him. None of them makes any threatening moves toward your group, however.
Mira Monday August 15th, 2005 11:31:28 PM
A worried look on her face, Mira looks from the gossiping townsfolk to Arm, Shadow, and then back to Arm. Surreptitiously, she moves a little closer to the bard, making sure she is between him and the upset folks in the street.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday August 16th, 2005 12:53:14 AM
Wilfire eyeballed the townsfolk as he passed, but he saved his breath. There were more important things to do, so he followed after the others.
Arm Tuesday August 16th, 2005 5:57:52 AM
Arm notices the looks of the townfolk, and is overcome with those same feelings of despair again, as the prophecy once again haunts him. Smiling slightly at Mira for her assistance, he quickens his pace to catch up with Conner, then asks, "So, my friend...did you find any sign of Amy?".
OOC: As far as I remember, neither Conner nor Shadow ever spoke to the group about her death, so I'm playing it as such. If I'm mistaken, feel free to correct me. :)
Kadaz Tuesday August 16th, 2005 7:19:50 AM
Birdie is happy to be with Kadaz again on dry ground. As they walk back home Kadaz stays on guard. "Fey, plants, wolves and now undead. If this is happening in Plateau City I wonder what is afflicting the rest of the world."
Conner Tuesday August 16th, 2005 7:28:23 AM
"Yes Armathen, yes we found her...she is now at the temple with so many others." The tone of Conner's voice makes it clear she will not be coming back.
Shadow Tuesday August 16th, 2005 9:07:14 AM
Noticing the group of people and how they are behaving, Shadow will move near the dim areas by the building. He is not sure how they will react seeing Arm. He is relieved when the group moves away from the group.
When Arm asks Conner about Amy, Shadow flinches, he looks at Conner to make sure the fighter is okay.
Uriel d20+3=17 Tuesday August 16th, 2005 9:53:56 PM
Uriel will lag behind trying to catch the eyes of the instigator(s). {Intimidate:17}
DM Kathy Wednesday August 17th, 2005 12:40:36 AM
You pass by the group, and it is an uncomfortable moment. A few of the crowd subside, muttering, when Uriel glares at them.
You make it past them without further incident, and soon reach the relative safety of your home. Conner says that he took Amy to the temple, and you understand what he means by that. So many have been killed in Plateau City over the last few days--and the events clearly haven't stopped. The streets are still flooded, and vines still choke the buildings. And now, it would appear that at least a few townsfolk have decided the elves are to blame. You can't help but wonder what will come next.
[Anybody who wants to try to figure out what those undead were, make a Knowledge (Religion) check.]
Kadaz Wednesday August 17th, 2005 6:49:27 AM
The dwarf looks around before entering home. "I think we should patrol the neighborhood. We're better prepared to handle trouble then most others around here. And it's clear that the city could use our help."
Evan Wednesday August 17th, 2005 7:24:09 AM
Evan nods in agreement with Kadaz, then signs to Mira, We should go check with the guard. They will know where are are most needed
Arm d20=6 Wednesday August 17th, 2005 8:48:30 AM
Arm grimaces at his faux pas, and lays a comforting arm across Conner's shoulders, saying, "I am SO very sorry, my friend...I did not know...may whatever god she woshipped provide her with happiness and contentment. If you need someone to talk to, know that I'll be here for you.".
Arm's thoughts THEN wander to a certain flame-haired bard at Samson's, and he wonders how SHE has fared, or if she is one of the dead as well. Trying to take his mind off of those thoughts, he tries to think if he has seen undead like that before, but his unfamiliarity with the area is not to his benefit (knowledge-region: 6).
Shadow Wednesday August 17th, 2005 9:48:25 AM
"We do need to make sure that the neighborhood is safe." Shadow agrees with Kadaz. He will keep his bow with an arrow knocked just in case. He thinks back to his days of traveling the thieves highway and how tightly wrapped his nerves were then, and realizes that his nerves are just as tightly wrapped now.
Mira Wednesday August 17th, 2005 5:45:48 PM
Indside the flat Mira takes a seat next to Evan and starts to converse in sign language.
"I wonder if the things we experiened earlier, the dragon attack on the city, the elven dream-meeting, the convergence of the moons and the sun, fey and undead things running amok in the city, and,"gesturing to the window where the vine hacked away by Kadaz is making a resurgence, "nature in overdrive, all have something in common?"
The sorcerer rests her hands in her lap for a moment, and then starts to sign again, "we could go to the guards to see where we might be of some use in this city. Or, maybe the answers to our questions lie outside the city?"
Conner Wednesday August 17th, 2005 10:42:24 PM
The tattooed fighter accepts Arms' apology with a nod but does not further the conversation. He realizes that he never knew what god she worshipped, if any.
"I agree" Conner responds to Kadaz suggestion, there may not be much we can do against such powerful forces, but we can keep this neighbourhood safe."
DM Kathy Thursday August 18th, 2005 1:27:52 AM
Kadaz, Shadow, and Conner are in favor of patrolling the neighborhood, at least for a time. They prepare to set out.
Mira and Evan favor visiting the Guard to ask for specific ways the group could help. Mira also spares some thought for the root causes of all these problems. Perhaps there's some way to stop this all at the source? Nothing suggests itself, however.
Arm realizes he hasn't heard from Anya and is worried. She wasn't at Sampson's earlier. Arm tries to figure out what the undead could have been, but has not heard of anything quite like them before.
Meanwhile, the city seems to be bedding down for the night as best it can. Lamps are being lit--where they still stand intact--and people are retreating into their homes. You see quite a few people peering warily out through windows, holding crossbows or cudgels, alert for trouble. Whether they will appreciate armed adventurers patrolling the streets is anybody's guess.
Arm Thursday August 18th, 2005 5:58:13 AM
Not wanting to tempt the already hostile crowds against him, in addition to feelng the effects of the near-sleepless night from the day before, Arm chooses to bed down for a bit...reasoning that if they ARE to venture out and about, it'd be best if it was done in daylight.
Shadow Thursday August 18th, 2005 9:35:01 AM
"Let's just keep this patrol to only the very close neighborhood." Shadow says in the waining light. He will keep his bow at the ready just in case.
Uriel Thursday August 18th, 2005 12:03:20 PM
Uriel voices concern on splitting the party again but if the neighborhood watch group persists he will join them.
Wilfire Ironhouse d20+7=14 Thursday August 18th, 2005 5:58:21 PM
Wilfire scanned his memory for any recollection of these strange undead creatures... a paragraph of ancient text... an off-hand comment during a religious lecture.
"Wilfie, ur not deh sharpest ink quill on the desk" he muttered to himself. (religious knowledge check 14)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 40] Thursday August 18th, 2005 6:36:03 PM
Kadaz is unwilling to cede any of the city to monsters, be it day or night. But he is willing to listen to some reason. "How about if we get some rest, then patrol during the late night and early morning. And we'll stay close to home, only going further if there is trouble" he suggests.
Mira d20+13=21 d20+11=15 Thursday August 18th, 2005 7:12:34 PM
Mira yawns, and stretches. "Good idea, Kadaz," she says aloud. "We'll keep watches on the neighborhood, including the flat, here. If anything untoward happens, call out." Mira prepares to retire, then hesitates at the door. "Mind waking me for the last watch?" Signing to the ranger she enquires, 'What do you think Evan? Will you take the last watch with me?'
During the watch:
Search=21 Listen=15
Conner Thursday August 18th, 2005 8:41:45 PM
"I'll take first watch" the fighter offers, and moves outside.
Fae Dreams
DM Kathy Friday August 19th, 2005 12:13:47 AM
Wilfire also puts his mind to it, but cannot figure out what the undead might have been.
Thinking it best to stay on alert, you divide the night into watches and make short patrols of the area. You are challenged a few times by both townsfolk and the Guard--everyone is on edge from recent events. Fortunately, you are known in the area and do not stray from your neighborhood.
Other than the ongoing danger of friendly fire, however, the night maintains an uneasy calm--not unlike the night before.
As dawn approaches, Mira and Evan are on watch, but between patrols they fall into a kind of daze. All of you--those of you asleep and the ones who were on watch--experience the following dream.
It begins almost with where the last vision left off. Eyes the color of the sea and the sky spring open as the Sleeper awakens. All over the Wold, you see Nature responding. Plants grow, rivers overflow, birds and beasts multiply and spread with alarming swiftness. Far to the south, a volcano erupts.
Even as Nature runs amok, you see the fae also increasing their activity. Giddy with joy and a sense of power, they venture from their normal hiding places and begin to work their mischeif. And they work things that go beyond mischeif.
A satyr is born, and you know his name. Ebyron, the Fae King. Centuries ago, he was put to sleep, thought to be too dangerous, too chaotic, too unpredictable to be allowed loose in the Wold. His Queen, Maab, ruled in his stead. But now the Sleeper has been awakened.
A flurry of scenes rush past you. Some seem familiar--you are sure you catch a glimpse of a flooding Endless River and packs of wolves. Most of the scenes make no sense at all.
Then you find yourself in a wooded glade.
Ebyron's smile is both indulgent and condescending. Both emotions fail to register in his handsome eyes, however, as though the eyes know the true odds.
"All this time," he begins, "I knew you'd cling to that crown. My dear Queen, did you think I would not anticipate this? Did you entertain the foolish notion that I would come meekly? Be your puppet?"
The satyr king gives a sharp stamp of his cloven hoof, and nearby branches veer away fearfully, only to return, swooning, as Ebyron stretches wide his arms.
"See the power I have! See nature's love for me! You have neither the right, nor the strength to deny me!" He turns slowly, his arms still outstretched, his fingers beckoning. Energy gathers there at those fingertips - a wisp of flame, a tiny cloud of sand; drops of moisture and the tiniest, perfect little whirlwind.
And with such small gestures, the entire Wold comes to rest - no wind, no rain, no fire, no tremors of earth. The elements gather around their king, cloaking him in a strange mist.
"You want me tame and compliant, my Queen?" his voice cries through the billowing cloud. "Then first, you must catch me."
The blast comes with no warning, bringing with it a power that only Maab could withstand without falling. Across continents, dwindled fires burst to life again, blasting outward. Seas and lakes thrash, the earth quakes, and howling winds tear at everything in their path. Fragments burst from the cloud, being the essence of Ebyron, torn into a multitude of pieces and carried away by the elements.
In moments, it iss over. But not before the fae queen has acted swiftly, gathering light into tiny, dazzling stars. "Show me," she urges.
Hot on the heels of the fragments of Ebyron, the stars hurtle outward. "You can't hide," she whispers. "Not from me. Now, show them. Let your own power betray you."
In seconds, each pinpoint of light reaches its destination, and once there, changes trajectory and converges...
Within the walls of the Cathedral of Light, in the middle of Plateau City, the Room of Artifacts suddenly bursts into life. The source? Ebron's orb, so recently brought back, at great risk and loss of life, from a time gone by. Colors and shapes reflect on the walls, and light surrounding the orb grows outward, becoming the great disks of the Wold. Pin points of brilliance flicker here and there, scattered across the Land. Here lies Ebyron. Here. And here.
Back in the Valley, the Fae Queen Maab uncurled her fingers and looked down into the palm of her hand. Three small acorns lie there, each enscribed with a unique rune - LIVE, SLEEP, DIE.
"The choice you should have made, will now be left to others," she says, her voice tainted with a raw sadness. "Let the runes grow where they may. I have done all I can. I can do no more."
The three acorns drop listlessly from her hand, where the ground swallows them....
When you awaken, lying next to each of you are three acorns. One says LIVE; one says SLEEP; one says DIE. You hear the Queen's voice as if carried on the wind: "Defeat the Avatar, then make your choice."
Arm Friday August 19th, 2005 5:59:57 AM
Deeply disturbed by the dream and it's portent, Arm ventures out into the common room to discuss it with the rest.
Evan d20+6=25 Friday August 19th, 2005 7:30:02 AM
Evan snaps awake, giving a slight shake of his head to clear the vision. He stares at the acorns for a moment then reaches out to give Mira a gentle shake. With a swipe of his hand, he scoops up the three acorns and drops them into his pouch, then gives their surroundings a quick search to make sure they are in no danger. (search- 25)
Kadaz Friday August 19th, 2005 9:00:09 AM
Kadaz awakens, shakes head, and notices the acorns next to him. "Great" he complains sarcastically, "Just great." But he gathers up the acorns carefully and stores them in his pouch, next to the wolf talons. He looks over at Birdie to see if the dog got any acorns also. Who knows with fey? Maybe the mice in the walls got them too.
Shadow Friday August 19th, 2005 9:20:22 AM
Shadow wakes up with a start. He looks around and shakes his head, he pinches his arm, and looks around one more time to make sure he really is awake. He thinks back to the dream and thinks, 'Was it only a dream?' He then spots the three acorns and realizes, no it was not just a dream.
He gets up, goes to gather the acorns, but decides to leave them right where they are, at least for now. He heads out to the common room. Seeing most of the others gathered, he is sure they all had the same dream.
Conner Friday August 19th, 2005 5:58:39 PM
The burly fighter finishes his watch and returns to the apartment. Sleep comes quickly to him, but it is a disturbed sleep, punctuated by dreams and visions of Amy, her death, and nature run amuk. He wakes in a cold sweat and eyes the three acorns in his hand. He knows which one he will cast...
Mira Sunday August 21st, 2005 10:15:54 PM
Mira wakes with a start when Evan shakes her. She removes her spectacles and gives them a quick wipe with the hem of her tunic and then pushes them back up her nose just in time to see the ranger drop something into his pouch.
Spotting the three acorns on the ground next to her, she mutter, "so it wasn't just a dream after all." Shaking her head grimly she picks up the acorns and holding them in the palm of her hand, adds, "none of it was."
Live...Sleep...Die...
Dropping the acorns in her pouch, Mira follows where Evan leads.
Wilfire Ironhouse Sunday August 21st, 2005 10:31:57 PM
"YA!" Wilfire screamed as he woke from his dream. Instinctively he reached for his heavy flail, upon which time he noticed the three acorns sitting beside him.
"Either'a chipmonk be courtin' me or..."
But he did not finish his sentence. Instead he scooped up the three acorns, grabbed his armor and weapons and went to meet the others.
"A hand wit me plate would be appreciated" he said when he met up with his companions.
DM Kathy Sunday August 21st, 2005 10:50:44 PM
The strange dream still whirling through your minds, you rise and make your preparations, knowing somehow that a major battle lies ahead of you. The warriors put on their armor, and the others prepare as best they can.
You leave your lodgings, instinct leading you south toward the Open Palm Market. Sure enough, as you approach, you hear a tremendous rumbling, followed by a crash and several screams. Fleeing townspeople begin to stream past you, running away from the Market.
This is it.
[Now is the time to cast any buff spells you may want, and to formulate some kind of strategy.]
Uriel Sunday August 21st, 2005 11:54:22 PM
Uriel looks to the others -
"This is going to test our spirit as well as our body comrades, we must think carefully on what our actions should be. I for one think that Wilfire should buff up Conner and Kadaz with his enlargement and Bulls Strength spells. They will benefit the most from it. We should also follow a similar strategy as with the undead. Warriors moving forward to engage in hand to hand and support team concentrating on one or two important enemies. For curing, besides potions we have only this wand, my lay on hands and any healing Wilfire has available. We should remember this and act accordingly. If any feels better equipped to use the curing wand I will concede it. Maybe Arm, being out of the melee might be able to better aid others. Or possibly Wilfire? I will also cast my magic weapon on Arm's crossbow again. Anyone else have other thoughts?"
Arm Monday August 22nd, 2005 5:47:53 AM
Arm agrees with Uriel, "Even though my heart isn't much in it at the moment, I can aid the front line in their battles, but I am also available for direct combat if we should need it.".
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Monday August 22nd, 2005 6:19:37 AM
Kadaz looks grimly into the distance. As he marches onward he replies "Good plan, Uriel. Can someone in the back relay information to those in the front. Also, make sure no one gets too far from the rest of the party. And does anyone have any idea what to do with these acorns? Throw them? Eat them? Plant them?"
Conner Monday August 22nd, 2005 7:30:35 AM
The fighter nods his head in agreement with Uriel's plan and secures his shield to his forearm.
Shadow Monday August 22nd, 2005 9:35:49 AM
"Sound plan." Shadow mumbles his reply. He is still very disturbed by the dream he had. His mind starts to wander again, but he is brought back to attention when Kadaz mentions the acorns. "I hope we don't need to have them on us at all times." he says, "I left mine back at the apartment." He shrugs and then readies his bow, nocking an arrow. He will take his place near the back of the group.
Wilfire Ironhouse Monday August 22nd, 2005 3:43:47 PM
"Ol'Wilfie's better suited for bein'in deh melee" Wilfire started. "But if yue git in trouble, I'll come a runnin as fas'as me wee legs'll carry me."
Wilfire then closed his eyes, drew forth his holy item, and started casting. When done he took up his two-handed flail and prepared for combat.
The first three spells he wil cast right away, if he has the time. Spiritual weapon he will hold until he sees what is the source of the panic.
Evan ac 22, hp 24 Magic Vestment +4 Monday August 22nd, 2005 3:51:56 PM
Evan pulls a potion vial out of his pouch and presses it into Wilfire's hand. He turns it so Wilfire can read the label, Hide from Undead, then motions for Wilfire to drink it. He steps back and pulls out another potion, Oil of Magic Vestment, and begins to apply it to his armor.
(duration 16 hours)
Uriel - Illegal Second Post Monday August 22nd, 2005 5:21:31 PM
{OOC: If you are better in melee than the straight fighters Wilfire, then you are not calculating your numbers correctly...}
Mira (AC 13+4 Mage Armor, 28 HP) Monday August 22nd, 2005 9:36:36 PM
Mira casts her first spell of the day, Mage Armour. She hangs back behind the guys, rubbing the palms of her hands together as she tries to see past the taller men in front of her. "What is it?" she asks, trying to keep her voice calm and steady. "What can you see Uriel? Conner?"
DM Sanity Info:
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
The Avatar
DM Kathy Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 12:23:52 AM
As prepared as you can make yourselves, you begin to move toward the Open Palm Market. You arrive, and see three enormous beings.
At first, you mistake them for trees, somehow uprooted and transported here intact. Then you see that one of them, the one closest to you, is roughly humanoid in shape. Its skin is thick and brown, with a barklike texture. Its arms and legs look like the split trunks of a tree. And it has a face. It seems to you that it has the same face as the satyr you saw in your dream.
The other two trees do not have faces, and truly seem more like walking trees than a humanoid who happens to look like a tree.
When it sees you, the one with the face lets out a roar. "Come!" it calls, "and let us be done with this!"
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 12:50:19 AM
(OOC- To Uriel- Wilfire never claimed to be better than anyone at straight combat. That being said, with all of the buff spells on him along with a base 17 strength he'd probably give a straight fighter of equal level a run for his money.)
(OOC- to Kathy- how many rounds of prespells did we have time to cast? Did I manage to get off all four?)
Wilfire directed his spiritual hammer at the closest tree (#1), and then waited to see what the others did. If they charged, he would follow.
(OOC- If Wilfire didn't get his spiritual weapon spell off already, he would cast it now instead)
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 5:42:38 AM
Kadaz looks up at the giant trees ahead of them. He looks down at Birdie, then up at the trees. A fleeting thought crosses his mind, then is gone, leaving a grin behind. Then he turns serious.
"I think we should try to concentrate on one tree at a time. Arrows first on the talking one, I say. And if we don't move from here then they can't surround us. If we go out into the plaza they can get around us. Make it come to us."
Kadaz carefully sets his axe down and releases his heavy cross bow. He starts cranking it furiously.
Arm Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 5:59:30 AM
Arm readies his crossbow in case its needed, while singing of heroic actions and brave deeds. (Bardsong-inspire courage...+1 save vs. charm & fear, +1 attk & dmg).
Evan ac 22, hp 24 Magic Vestment +4 d20+7=8 Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 6:50:40 AM
Evan eyes the trees in front of him, then a slight smile touches his lips as he bounds forward towards the nearest of the tree figures. With a flick of his wrist, he let's fly with a throwing axe, but misses horribly. (move forward 30', axe to hit-8)
Conner Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 7:59:45 AM
The fighter looks at the trees and considers Kadaz strategy of letting them come to the party. He briefly considers removing his shield in order to use his new bow, but realizes that the trees would be upon them after only a few arrows, and then he would be without his trusty shield. Instead he adopts a defensive pose andreadies himself for their advance.
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+5=18 d4+1=5 Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 8:24:47 AM
Shadow sees the monsterous trees and is taken back just a little. He had never seen anything like it in his lifetime. He hears Kadaz state a strategy that seems sound and he lets fly with an arrow at the tree with a face. (to hit=18 dmg=5)
Mira (AC 13+4 Mage Armor, 28 HP) 2d4(2+2)+2=6 Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 10:41:38 PM "Come, and let us be done with this!"
Mira is puzzled by the tree creature's taunt. It seems more an invitation for the party to attack, than a rallying cry for the three beings from the forest. Fortified by the Bard's song, the sorcerer wonders if the creature has a death wish? Her mind drifts to the acorns in her pocket, and then she refocuses her energies.
Mira reaches a hand high over the head of the dwarf, Kadaz, and two balls of magical energy hurtle towards the treent with the face. (6 pts dmg, +1 from Arm's Bardsong)
DM Sanity Info:
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile#, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
From Arm: Bardsong/Inspire Courage (+1 save vs. charm & fear, +1 attk & dmg) effect lasts for as long as bard sings and for 5 rounds after he finishes.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} Tuesday August 23rd, 2005 11:18:04 PM
{Remember Uriel cast magic weapon on Arm's crossbow also}
Uriel concentrates on the three to determine if they are evil and readies himself for an attack.
DM Kathy d20+9=12 Wednesday August 24th, 2005 1:36:18 AM
Wilfire had time to cast his buff spells, and cast his Spiritual Weapon this round. (Go ahead and make your attack rolls for this round and the next round).
Kadaz assesses the situation and suggests that everyone stay where they are, forcing the Avatar to come to you. He begins loading his crossbow.
Arm begins singing, and you all feel just a little bit better about the coming fight.
Conner, mindful of Kadaz's suggestion, stands ready. Uriel concentrates, but detects no evil in the advancing "trees."
Shadow fires a shot, but the arrow skips off of the tough, barklike skin.
Mira has more luck with her spell, and the missiles strike true. She can tell they did their full damage, but the creature is so massive it seems scarcely to feel it.
Evan didn't get the memo about staying in one spot, and moves forward to throw his axe. It misses.
The tree with the face moves forward and swings a massive, limblike arm at Evan. Fortunately, it misses.
The other two trees also move forward--stiffly, awkwardly. It's as if they're new to this whole idea of moving.
Arm Wednesday August 24th, 2005 5:54:55 AM
Arm continues to sing, providing support for the party...which he hopes will be enough.
(Kathy, I didn't see anything in the PHB that said I couldn't attack while singing...is it possible? If so, then I can use Uriel's enchanted weapon bonus as well... ;) ).
Arm Wednesday August 24th, 2005 5:55:11 AM
Arm continues to sing, providing support for the party...which he hopes will be enough.
OOC: (Kathy, I didn't see anything in the PHB that said I couldn't attack while singing...is it possible? If so, then I can use Uriel's enchanted weapon bonus as well... ;) ).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+7=17 d10+1=6 Wednesday August 24th, 2005 6:40:26 AM
Kadaz finishes winding up his heavy cross bow, loads a bolt, takes careful aim at the tree with a face and shoots. He then drops it to the ground and picks up his axe. (to hit 17, damage 6)
"Mira, do you think a walking tree would be afraid of fire?" Kadaz asks, searching for any way to gain an advantage in this fight.
Evan ac 22, hp 24 Magic Vestment +4, Bard Song d20+5=15 d20+6=25 d8+4=5 d6+4=7 Wednesday August 24th, 2005 6:48:04 AM
Evan closes with the massive tree, drawing his second axe as he does so, and attacks. (sword-15, dam-5, axe- 25, dam-7)
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+5=16 d20+1=3 Wednesday August 24th, 2005 9:48:02 AM
Shadow will fire again at the oncoming tree with a face, he guesses that this is the avatar in his dream. He hopes his new magical bow will produce strong enough magic to affect the creature. (to hit=16 dmg=3)
Conner (AC 22, 44 HP, Total Defense+4 Dodge, Inspire Courage +1) Wednesday August 24th, 2005 11:03:14 PM
Conner charges straight ahead, stopping only when he is abreast the ranger. The fighter crashes his sword upon his shield making a frightful noise and shouting,"A sword day! An axe day!"
Position: (beside Evan, on his right, in line with #2)
Mira (AC 13+4 Mage Armor, 28 HP) 2d4(3+2)+2=7 Wednesday August 24th, 2005 11:11:26 PM
"I would think!" Mira answers the dwarf's question. "But I would have to get closer to cast fire upon it. "Does anyone have oil?" Mira follows Conner as he moves forward, but stays behind the fighter and the ranger. From her new position she lobs two more missiles at the treent. (7 pts dmg, +1 from Arm's Bardsong)
DM Sanity Info:
Position: In the square immediately behind Evan and Conner.
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile##, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
From Arm: Bardsong/Inspire Courage (+1 save vs. charm & fear, +1 attk & dmg) effect lasts for as long as bard sings and for 5 rounds after he finishes.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} d20+4=20 2d6(6+5)+11=22 Thursday August 25th, 2005 12:04:52 AM
Uriel starts to say something of Evan's tactics and then realizes he can't sign to Evan's back...
Then after Conner and Mira move forward, Uriel grunts in frustation and says to Kadaz, "So much for strategy. I am going to protect our flank from the other 'trees'."
Uriel moves up towards the other trees so they don't circle around behind Conner, Evan and Mira.
If he has an opportunity he will swing away at one of the trees, otherwise he will hold his action til they come within range.
{Power Attack: -4 to hit, +6 to Dmg, Hit AC:20 dmg:22}
DM Kathy d20+9=17 d20+9=20 d20+9=27 2d6(3+1)+12=16 d20+9=17 Thursday August 25th, 2005 1:32:28 AM
Arm continues to sing. [Yes, you can fight while singing. Roll attacks for this round and the next round, if you like.]
Kadaz fires a shot, but it, too, skips off the creatures thick skin. He drops his crossbow and readies his axe, wondering whether fire would be a help.
Evan moves toward the creature, provoking an Attack of Opportunity. [These things have a 15-foot reach.] This time, the treelike limb clangs off the ranger's armor. Evan makes his own attacks, missing with the sword, but hitting with the axe.
Shadow fires another shot that fails to penetrate, and Conner charges up next to Evan.
Mira fires two more Magic Missiles, and by now the creature is looking hurt. It still appears to have plenty of fight left, though.
Uriel, watching his plan go down in flames, moves up to protect Conner and Evan.
The treelike creature continues to attack Evan, this time flailing at him with two limbs. The first blow also glances off his armor, but the second one finds its target for 16 points of damage.
The first of the moving trees stops to swing at Conner. Its limb glances off his armor. The other tree continues to move forward, apparantly seeking a target.
Arm d20+3=20 d20+3=20 2d8(7+5)+3=15 Thursday August 25th, 2005 5:54:39 AM
Keeping up his singing, Arm fires on the tree that Mira has been attacking, with good results (attk: 20 & 20-total dmg: 15-actually I think it should have been +6...+3 for each damage roll, which would make it 18 :) ).
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Thursday August 25th, 2005 6:59:14 AM
Kadaz sighs, his hope that the group would remain in a more secure location gone.
"The talking one appears to be the leader. Maybe if it is gone the others will take root or something." Kadaz moves ahead to his left, moving into position, trying to stay just out of reach of it's branches. Next round he will move up to the side of the talking tree. He grips is axe and shield tightly.
Evan ac 22, hp 8/24 Magic Vestment +4, Bard Song d20+5=16 d20+6=8 Thursday August 25th, 2005 7:22:28 AM
Evan staggers under the wieght of the massive blow from the talking tree, his swings going wide and missing the giant tree. He recovers his footing, making sure he stays between Mira and the tree.(sword-16, axe-8)
Conner [AC=22, HP=44] Bardsong d20+9=24 d20+7=24 d8+6=14 d6+4=8 Thursday August 25th, 2005 10:27:12 PM
The fighter ducks under the limb of the tree creature and winces as it glances off his armor. Conner returns the attack with all the fury he can muster, first slicing at the tree with his longsword [Hit AC=24 for 14 dmg] then smashing his spiked shield into it's tough wooden hide [Hit AC=24 for 8 dmg]
"Evan" he mouths the words to his companion, "we must move back to the rest of the group"
Mira (AC 13+4 Mage Armor, 28 HP) 2d4(4+1)+4=9 Thursday August 25th, 2005 11:18:47 PM
"Conner is right!" shouts the sorcerer, taking a step backwards. "I'll provide cover while you fall back." Mira smiles grimly. Her magic seems to be gaining in power, the more she uses it! (9 pts dmg, +1 from Arm's Bardsong)
DM Sanity Info:
Position: In a square behind Evan and Conner (falling back).
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile###, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
From Arm: Bardsong/Inspire Courage (+1 save vs. charm & fear, +1 attk & dmg) effect lasts for as long as bard sings and for 5 rounds after he finishes.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} Friday August 26th, 2005 12:38:26 AM
Uriel will hold his attack until one the creature comes within range or if it seems they will be able to flank the others.
DM Kathy d20+9=19 d20+9=28 2d6(4+1)+12=17 d20+9=13 d20+9=25 2d6(4+5)+12=21 d10+9=17 Friday August 26th, 2005 2:24:54 AM
Arm fires at the tree. [OOC: I didn't think you got two attacks yet. It isn't a critical, because your first roll was not a natural 20. I'm going to treat it as a single, non-critical shot for now; please let me know if there's something I've overlooked.] The shot hits, but somehow the arrow doesn't seem to do as much damage as Arm would have thought. It sinks into the barklike skin and seems to have little effect.
Kadaz moves up cautiously.
Evan swings twice at the large tree and misses both times. Conner also swings twice, and has better luck. His longsword slashes at the beast, drawing blood (or is that sap?). The shield, however, doesn't seem to have much effect. Like Arm's arrow, the spike pokes in but doesn't really seem to do anything.
Mira lets fly with another round of Magic Missiles and steps back. Uriel stands his ground, waiting for an enemy to come within reach.
The treelike being continues to concentrate on Evan. Its first blow glances off the ranger's armor, but the second one connects for 17 points damage.
The first of the trees, meanwhile, is attacking Conner. It swings twice and connects once, doing 21 points of damage.
The second tree moves forward and stops when it can reach Uriel. Unfortunately, Uriel can't reach it from his present position. The tree swings at the paladin, but misses.
[Anybody who didn't get to post this round--that's Jeff and Scott--can go ahead and post two rounds' worth of actions. This is a tough fight, and we need the whole team. :) ]
Arm Friday August 26th, 2005 5:53:41 AM
Noticing that his strikes didn't do much...if any...damage, Arm resorts to continuing his singing, once again hoping that will be enough to aid the party.
(OOC: Kathy, the reason why I attacked twice was that, in your previous post, you told me I could attack twice...unless I misinterpreted YOUR post... :) )
Kathy: D'oh! Right you are. Okay, both shots hit, but neither seemed to really do anything.
Evan ac 22, hp -9/24 Magic Vestment +4, Bard Song; Die Hard Friday August 26th, 2005 6:52:57 AM
Evan staggers under the massive blow once again. There is a loud ringing in his ears and his vision blurs as he stumbles backwards, his only thought to escape before another blows lands, as he is certain the next blow will kill him.
Mira (AC 13+4 Mage Armor, 28 HP) d8+1=4 Friday August 26th, 2005 7:51:41 AM
"Uriel! The wand!" screams Mira as she moves to kneel over the fallen ranger. Mira retrieves a potion from her stash and pours it down Evan's throat, spilling some of it in her haste. (Restore 4 HP to Evan.)
DM Sanity Info:
Position: In a square behind Evan and Conner (falling back).
Spells:
0-level, 6 per day-Detect Magic, Read Magic, Light, Mage Hand, Open/Close, Ray of Frost 1st-level, 7 per day-Magic Missile###, Burning Hands, Mage Armor# 2nd-level, 4 per day-Glitterdust
From Arm: Bardsong/Inspire Courage (+1 save vs. charm & fear, +1 attk & dmg) effect lasts for as long as bard sings and for 5 rounds after he finishes.
(OOC: Len, it is my understanding that a bard can do Bardsong and attack at the same time, and like Kathy says in her post, we need the whole team!)
Conner [AC=21 HP=23/44]Bardsong d20+4=18 Friday August 26th, 2005 7:57:02 AM
Conner sees Evan fall under the tree's enormous limb just as he himself is struck. His immediate instinct is to press his attack on the tree in retaliation, but a comrade is down. Conner waits the brief second for Mira to administer the healing potion before grabbing the unconcious ranger by his shirt and jacket and dragging him back towards safety. [STR=18].
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] d20+5=8 d20+5=15 d4+1=3 d4+1=4 Friday August 26th, 2005 9:34:44 AM
Shadow takes aim at the tree with face and lets fly with another arrow but misses (an 8). He sees that Arm has hit, but does not do much if anything to the tree. He tries to think of anything that he can do to increase the damage they are inflicting on the creature (well he has not inflicted any damage yet).
Shadow will look around to see if there are any street lamps lit yet (OOC: what time of day is it anyway?). If he sees a sign of fire he will start moving towards that. (Idea is to start creating flaming arrows using anything he has to for them to catch on fire.)
"Maybe fire will help damage these things." Shadow calls out to his companions.
If he does not see any close source of flame he will let loose with another arrow (second turn) and misses again.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+11=25 d10+5=14 Friday August 26th, 2005 7:11:55 PM
Kadaz advances on the talking tree, shield raised over his head to protect from a limb slap. When he gets next to it he swings, hoping to see wood chips fly. (to hit 25, damage 14). "Look at me you walking tinder box" Kadaz taunts, trying to take some attention from Evan.
Evan (ooc) Saturday August 27th, 2005 6:49:35 AM
(ooc: Evan is still standing and conscious, barely. He has die hard which keeps him stable and conscious until he hits -10)
Wilfire Ironhouse 2d8(1+7)+3=11 d20+6=18 Sunday August 28th, 2005 11:19:03 PM
OOC- sorry major computer problems. I fixed my computer only to have it crash again. Currently posting from my mother's house... yikes.
Wilfire heads right for Evan and casts a quick healing spell (2nd level healing). Meanwhile his hammer continues to fly at the nearest tree (OOC- hit 18)
OOC- heal 11 points. If Wilfire can't get to Evan he will instead heal Conner.
OOC2- I am assuming that Wilfire's hammer already was directed at a target. If not, please ignore the roll.
Uriel {AC:19 HP:43/43 Aura of Courage} Sunday August 28th, 2005 11:58:37 PM
Uriel watches Wilfire from the corner of his eye and begins to retreat along with the others, hoping they can get back and form an attack focal point against the trees.
If Evan needs more aid then Wilfire can give now, Uriel will move over to help.
DM Kathy d8+6=13 d20+9=17 Monday August 29th, 2005 12:58:39 AM
Arm continues singing.
Evan, who has taken enough damage to fell a lesser man, somehow manages to stay on his feet. He stumbles backward 5 feet, knowing that moving any further would provoke an Attack of Opportunity.
Mira steps forward 5 feet (thereby also avoiding the AoO) and hands her beloved a potion (since Evan is still conscious, you don't have to pour it down him).
Conner's first thought is to help Evan, but seeing that the ranger is still on his feet, he instead opts to swing at the treelike being again. His sword lashes out and hits for 13 points damage. [I apologize for changing your actions, Bob, but what you posted would have provoked AoOs from both the treant and the animated tree. And it was unnecessary, since Evan is conscious. I converted your Strength check roll into an attack roll, and rolled damage for you. I know that's strictly against the rules for DMs, but I didn't want to kill Conner. :) ]
Shadow continues to fire arrows, but they aren't terribly effective. He looks around for a source of fire. [It is morning; none of the lamps are lit. Any occupied houses will likely have a fire of some kind going, but it will take a while to reach them.]
Kadaz moves toward the treelike being, provoking an AoO. The great limb swings at him, but bounces off his armor. Kadaz's own blow strikes true.
Wilfire moves up and cures Evan for 11 points, and Uriel tries to rally the group to a better defensive position.
The tree with the face seemed to slump after Kadaz hit it and now, awkwardly, the mighty creature kneels.
"You have defeated me," he concedes, "and now you must decide my fate. My Queen has gifted you with the seeds of choice, and now you must cast your votes as you see fit. But before you make your choice, you should know about me and my purpose in the Wold.
"My name is Ebyron, and I am the King of the Fae. I am Nature in its purest form--wild and untamed. Nature is not always kind, but it is always fair. Life and death, growth and destruction, health and decay--all are kept in balance. Over the past few days, you have seen what a bounty of Nature can do. Some of it was benign and friendly; some of it was destructive.
"Centuries ago, it was determined that I represented a force too wild and chaotic to be allowed to continue in the Wold. My Queen, Maab, conspired to send me to sleep, and there I remained." His mouth tightens. "There will be a reckoning for that some day, but that need not concern us now.
"I was awakened by the Elves, who long, I think, for a return to natural ways. I returned to the Wold, and Nature rejoiced. And, as I said, some of the results were destructive. That is often the way with Nature."
He looks searchingly at each of you. "Know this, though--now that I am myself again, I can exercise some measure of control over the natural forces that welcome my return. And if you allow me to continue to live, and work, in the Wold, I can channel these forces for the benefit of all."
He spreads his treelike hands. "Would not that be the best for everyone? Natural bounties whose like you have never seen before? Unnatural and un-life forces driven back? Forests and fields and brooks growing in abundance? All of these things can be yours if you choose to let me LIVE."
He looks at you, awaiting your questions and your decision.
Nearby, the two trees stop moving. They are now rooted in the cobbled yard of the Open Palm Market, as if they had been growing there since the Wold began.
[OOC: There is no need to cast your vote right away. In fact, we're far enough ahead of other groups that we might want to take our time here. Feel free to ask questions, or make accusations, and see how Ebyron responds. And of course, Shadow needs to run home and get his acorns. :)]
Arm Monday August 29th, 2005 6:06:53 AM
Arm listens to the avatar's speech, then thinks quietly for a few moments. After a bit, he says to Ebyron, "How do we know that you are telling us the truth? When we elves voted, no one told us of the consequences that have resulted in so many deaths thusfar, so how do we know that MORE will not occur because of our choice?". He says this with a bit of trepidation, but his need to know is intense.
Evan ac 22, hp 6/24 Magic Vestment +4, Bard Song Monday August 29th, 2005 7:46:51 AM
Evan collapses at the base of the massive tree, smiling weakly to Mira and Wilfire. He breathes easier as he feels the curing effects of Wilfire's spell wash over him, but remains where he is, listening to the words of the King. He fumbles in his pouch for the three acrons then looks at Mira, studing her face, wondering how she will vote.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Monday August 29th, 2005 4:29:23 PM
Kadaz remains on guard, axe and shield raised to strike if the tree moves. He glares at it and demands "What use have dwarves of nature? An orderly, manicured world might benefit all."
Kadaz glares some more and remains very much on guard. In his dream the being named Ebyron wasn't nearly so willing to let others decide his fate. And this giant tree wasn't as close to being defeated as he makes it seem. Something is not right here. Hopefully the smart ones in the group can figure it out.
Conner Monday August 29th, 2005 7:26:50 PM
The fighter sheathes his sword while listening to the avatar. "And if we choose 'sleep'" he queries, "what becomes of nature if I choose sleep?"
Uriel Monday August 29th, 2005 9:58:01 PM
Uriel walks over to Evan and grasps his shoulder (heal for 12 points).
Near the tree, Uriel rests his greatsword point down and rests his forearms across the crosshilt.
"How is it that you call nature fair. That is a fallacy. Nature works under the premise of might makes right. The strong feeding off of the weak who in turn feed off those weaker still. There may be a symmetry to nature but it is not fair. I would call the balance you mentioned the domains of the powers of the Wold not just Nature. Our humble group did not best you, some other forces were at work here, forces of great strength and wisdom. If you are truly defeated it is by their hand and I for one will not defy Domi.
Tell us if you will Ebyron how you would reform if given the chance?"
Mira d20+8=24 Monday August 29th, 2005 10:21:54 PM
Mira listens with her ears to the words of the giant tree calling itself 'Ebyron', and the questions asked by her party. The sorcerer goes over to the trees now rooted in the cobblestones of the square. She moves a hand over the rough bark and wonders what magic caused them to spring to life at this avatar's command. (Knowledge Arcana=24)
Wilfire Ironhouse 2d8(3+6)+3=12 d8+3=5 d8+3=10 Tuesday August 30th, 2005 12:11:52 AM
Wilfire ignores the tree and instead begins healing his friends.
Evan- +12 conner- +5+10=+15
DM Kathy Tuesday August 30th, 2005 1:36:05 AM
The treant listens intently to your questions.
"Everything the Elves voted for has come to pass," he replies ot Arm. "Nature is ascendant, and the tyrant Parnoth is even now being pressed by the forces of the Culverwood. True, there were unforseen consequenses, but that does sometimes happen. No one save the gods can see the future with perfect clarity." He pauses for a moment. "I can give you no guarantees," he says to Arm. "I will say that, alive, I stand a better chance of controlling the powers of Nature. Without me..." He shrugs. "Well, who knows what will happen?"
His smile at Kadaz has something of the sneer about it. "Until the dwarves learn to do without food, they should have some use for Nature. Or did you think the fruits of the trees and the grains of the field were somehow manufactured by those who sell them to you? A resurgent Nature will benefit even you, Sir Dwarf, though you may not realize it."
He looks thoughtful at Conner's question. "If I sleep, I believe the Wold will go back to being very much the way it was. Of course," he adds, "that would be rather hard on those of the Culverwood, who could very well end up under the Tyrant's heel once again."
When he goes to reply to Uriel, there is more than a hint of a sneer about him. "Ah, so you would prefer the justice of your so-called 'civilization,'" he replies. "A justice where money, power, and influence can save even the most worthless and venal from their well-deserved fate. Nature cares not for wealth and power; natural justice is pure.
"I am not Ebyron himself," he continues. "Or rather, I am not all there is to Ebyron. I am an Avatar. All over the Wold, Avatars are being challenged by adventurers like you. So you are correct, Sir Paladin, when you believe that your group did not defeat Ebyron. You did, however, defeat me, and my fate is truly in your hands. Do not think to push your responsibility on a god. The decision is yours."
He pauses again before answering Uriel's final question. "I've learned a thing or two over the centuries," he replies at last. "I believe I have a better rein on the wilder side of my disposition, and that, in turn will enable me to exercise greater control over the natural forces that respond to my presence."
Arm Tuesday August 30th, 2005 6:02:12 AM
All this talk of control does not sit well with Arm. Even though elves themselves are lovers of nature, he really doesn't believe that anything should have total control of everything or everyone, much as the elves dislike being controlled by others. For the moment, he stands by idlely while the others finish their questioning...pretty much already knowing what his decision will be.
Evan Tuesday August 30th, 2005 6:52:39 AM
Evan smiles his thanks to Uriel and Wilfire as he watches Mira with the other trees. His fingers curl around the three acorns and he glances down for a moment as he pulls the acorns out of the pouch just far enough to see what each says. He let's two acorns slip back down into the pouch, closing his fist around a third. With his back still resting against the avatar, he waits for the others to make their decision.
Shadow Tuesday August 30th, 2005 12:43:14 PM
(OOC: Sorry for not posting yesterday, but I was in route to Birmingham, and into Hurricane Katrina. We made it fine, but last night was a little wild. I will try and post tomorrow and Thursday - Friday I will be back home.)
IC: Shadow is a little hesitant to leave the group while they are discussing their opinions for Ebyron, but he must get his acorns. He will run back to the apartment to gather the three acorns, and hustle back to the group.
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] d20+1=9 Tuesday August 30th, 2005 4:54:06 PM
"Excuse me, you say that if the world were to decide to send you back to sleep everything would return to the way it was last week?" This seems too simple - there must be a catch some where. Kadaz looks around careully - this thing may be summoning fae to help. (spot 9)
Conner Tuesday August 30th, 2005 9:34:48 PM
Conner looks around at the destruction that has befallen the city. Buildings crumbling under the weight of vines, flotsam littering the streets from where the river has washed over it's banks, and the temples filled with the injured and the dead.
He waves his arm across the grizly scene, "This is control...this is exercising a tighter grip on your wilder side?" the fighter replies incredulously. His face hardens as he glares at the avatar. "You'll have to do better than that, cause Amy and the others are dead and it doesn't matter if it was the act of a tyrant or just some unforseen consequence. Dead is dead!"
Mira Tuesday August 30th, 2005 10:01:18 PM
Mira moves away from the silent trees, and stands before the beaten avatar, looking him full in the face she says, "you fumble with our souls." She pauses, "we are but pawns in your game. Even the elves you profess to love so much." The colour rises in the mages face, as she fumbles with the ties of her pouch. "Prepare your brittle nature for the ethereal blow!"
Uriel Wednesday August 31st, 2005 12:28:46 AM
Uriel remains mute but looks thoughtfully as he plays with the acorns in his hand.
"Tell me more King of Nature of how you have more control..." Uriel says.
DM Kathy Wednesday August 31st, 2005 1:17:48 AM
Shadow dashes home to get his acorns. Meanwhile, many in the group seem to have reached their decision.
There are still some with questions, though.
"You misunderstand me," the Avatar replies to Kadaz. "Nothing can undo what has been done. If I am sent back to sleep, however, the balance between Law and Chaos, between Nature and Civilization, will once again be as it was." His mouth twists wryly. "And I cannot see how it was a balance worth saving. A tyrannical dragon enslaving the Culverwood, and unnatural experiments in the Southern Continent...would things not be better if Nature were better able to take care of its own?"
To Uriel, he says, "Look around you. The floodwaters are receding. The fae have ceased their mischeif and returned to their hiding places. The beasts have gone back to the wild. All of this is my doing. And yet, Nature's bounty remains. Vines and flowers still cover your drab stone buildings. They no longer destroy, but add life and warmth and color where before there was none. Properly controlled, my presence can be good for the Wold."
As the Avatar finishes his speech, Shadow comes pelting back into the square, clutching his acorns.
[OOC: If you have more questions, feel free to ask them. If your character is ready to cast a vote, go ahead and do so. Let me know what it is, either by posting it here or e-mailing it to me.]
Arm Wednesday August 31st, 2005 6:04:04 AM
Arm speaks up at this time, "And who are YOU to say what "proper control" is? I care not at all for this control talk.".
To Mira he says, "You need to sign to Evan what is going on, as he needs to know all of the information before he makes his decision. I noticed that you haven't been doing that, so he must be extremely confused by now.".
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Wednesday August 31st, 2005 6:25:34 AM
"I know nothing of what is going on elsewhere in the world. But here in Plateau City your existance has brought only death and destruction. I cannot chose life for you. But it is not my place to chose death for a god. Thus I chose sleep. May you sleep for an eon more." Kadaz pulls the acorn with SLEEP on it from his pouch and holds it high.
Evan Wednesday August 31st, 2005 6:46:18 AM
Evan looks from one person to the next, listening to the questions and the avatar's responses. He smiles softly at Arm's comment to Mira as he is mute, not deaf. Then he slowly opens his hand and lets his vote roll off his palm to drop and land at the avatar's roots. As it comes to a rest, the choice can be seen.....LIVE
Shadow Wednesday August 31st, 2005 9:55:46 AM
Shadow arrives back a little winded just in time to hear Kadaz tell the avatar his choice of sleep. He gives Kadaz a puzzled look as to why he decided that, but is brought around when Evan drops his acorn. His face splits into a smile as Shadow realizes he feels the same way. He moves forward and rolls his acorn towards the roots of the avatar. When it comes to a stop everyone can clearly read the word 'LIVE' on it. Shadow moves back to allow the others to vote.
Mira Wednesday August 31st, 2005 7:06:39 PM
Mira's jaw drops when Evan smiles sweetly and drops the acorn that says LIVE. "Are you out of your mind!" she cries, moving in front of the ranger, loose strands of hair flying, and face red with fury. "Do you so soon forget the dead!" Waving at the representative of the Fey King, she continues, I held a child...a mere babe, in my arms. His mother's blood soaked his swaddling clothes!" Mira takes a deep breath and then drops the next bomb, "and but hours ago you held Zully, orphaned and her brother lost, all because...because..." Mira's face twists unpleasantly as she mimics the big tree, "a misunderstanding!"
Turning round, she looks at the tree, "and don't tell me this is what the elves want!" Gesturing to her companions, she continues, "I don't think this is what Arm wants! I don't think this is what Shadow wants! All this death...death, and destruction...I don't think this is what those who joined in the singing wanted!"
Mira's eyes narrow, "chaos, control, and...revenge! That is what I think this Ebyron wanted, and I am not convinced that you have any control over him!" she says, staring pointedly at the tree thing.
Mira finally gets the ties of her bag undone, and grabs the contents. Opening her palm she stares at the three nuts...LIVE...SLEEP...DIE.
Conner Wednesday August 31st, 2005 7:54:26 PM
"Are you telling us, no, promising us that nature's fury is past? That our towns and villages will be safe? Or simply that we have replaced one set of tyrants with another?" The fighter weighs two acorns in his hand as he awaits his answer.
Uriel Wednesday August 31st, 2005 10:08:45 PM
Uriel opens his mouth to speak and closes it again, upon hearing Conner's question.
"Yes King. Make us an oath that part of nature's fury that you are the root of has past and will not happen again!"
DM Kathy Thursday September 1st, 2005 1:20:27 AM
The Avatar sighs at Conner's question. "Did I not just say that none can see the future? I do not know what tyrants may yet attempt to hold sway in the Wold, nor whether they will be successful. I do know that, in my presence, Nature will be more powerful, more able to fight off those who would usurp the natural balance."
He looks at Uriel. "Very well. I swear that the destruction you have witnessed, the inadvertent result of Nature's joy at my awakening, has passed." It's hard to tell with the barklike face, but it seems that the Avatar's lips twitch in an ironic smile. "However, if I were really as untrustworthy as you seem to think, my oath is worth nothing. Take it and make of it what your will."
He listens to Mira, and says. "An accident, then, if 'misunderstanding' does not suit you. Whatever name you call it, the destruction was not intended. And it is over." With a sweep of his branchlike arm, he indicates the city. "Look around you."
Arm Thursday September 1st, 2005 5:52:21 AM
Prepared to make his decision, Arm reaches into a pouch to pull out the 3 acorns. Pausing a moment to wonder of THIS decision is the one he will be blamed for making, yet tired to death of second-guessing every action he takes, he says, "I agree with Conner. There MAY have been problems in the past, but it was something that the people of the Wold were used to, and could for the most part tolerate. In my heart, I believe there is MUCH that you hiding from us, so thus I make my decision.". Looking down, he chooses an acorn from his hand, and drops SLEEP at the avatar's feet (or roots, as it were).
OOC: OK, maybe I'm missing something here, but if Evan is not deaf, then why does Mira have to sign to him (unless she wants to speak privately to him, which in that case she could just whisper)? It's not a big issue, I'm just confused...that's all. :)
Evan Thursday September 1st, 2005 7:22:51 AM
Evan gazes at Mira as she rants in front of him, thinking that she has never looked so beautiful as she does at this moment, full of righteous anger at the nature king's avatar. Her comment about Zully strikes a deep cord within him, causing him to glance towards the avatar. When he looks back, he finds the Mira is staring at the three acorns in her hand.
As he tries to compose in his mind his response to Mira, he reaches out to lightly tap her wrist to gain her attention. His fingers dance, trying to put into words, the thoughts of his heart. Have you ever been dreaming, then awaken, but you are so deep within the dream that you believe that the dream is reality? Have you ever awakened but have been held so tightly by sleep that it takes you a few minutes to come to your senses? Evan points to the avatar.This is what I believe has happened with the nature king. He has slept so long, that it was difficult for him to gain his bearings upon awakening. Evan gestures to the destruction around him and continues, This is not a result of the avatar's reaction, but rather, a response by the forces of nature to the awakening of the King. What was done, was not done out of maliciousness but rather, more the actions of children, delighted to see their parent again. And as with all children, nature overreacted to the reawkening of the nature king. Now that the nature king is awake and has his bearings, he exerts control over his wayward children, keeping them in check. If we kill him or put him back to sleep, who will keep control over the forces of nature then? If we take away the only restraint on the forces of nature that exist at the moment, we will return to the horrors we have lived through this morning.
Evan reaches out to take Mira's hand in his, as he gazes intently into her eyes. His fingers dance along the palm of her hand as he continues, Salvation through death is no salvation at all. And to return the avatar to sleep merely puts the decision off onto others, most likely our children or grandchildren. It is shirking a responsibility we have now. Nature cannot not be locked away, Mira.
Evan ooc Thursday September 1st, 2005 7:25:33 AM
((Mira doesn't NEED to sign to Evan, he hears just fine. He was born without vocalcords, though, and is mute. Sometimes she signs to him to speak privately with him but mostly she signs to him, I believe, to practice the language. She's only recently learned sign language))
Shadow Thursday September 1st, 2005 8:32:28 AM
Shadow looks at Arm as he casts his vote, "I understand your reasoning, but we all need to make our own decision." He awaits to see what the rest of the group will do. He has made his choice and believes it to be the right one.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday September 1st, 2005 11:01:26 PM
Wilfire sat back and listened to what his friends had to say regarding this very important decision.
"Tis true" Wilfire thought "People in deh wol' were use'ta things a certain way. If it came to'a vote deh'd proba'ly vote ta go back to deh ol'ways".
"Deh ol'ways" Wilfire muttered aloud, and instantly his thoughts shifted back to the time spent in the shanty town. Images of children sifting through garbage quickly came to mind, and suddenly Wilfire wasn't so sure that they old ways were so desirable afterall.
"If ever we gonna do somefin ta help deh people" Wilfire appealed to his friends "Mayhaps dis is our best chance..."
Wilfire stepped forward and looked up at the huge tree with a look of utter seriousness on his face. "By the Gods, I swear ta pee on every tree dat I see till my diein day if yue fail me".
And with those words Wilfire tossed the live acorn to the ground.
Mira Thursday September 1st, 2005 11:25:43 PM
The green eyed sorcerer watches the ranger as he uses the only language he knows. She 'reads' what he says aloud, for those who do not understand Sign. Her face reddens as the logic of his argument sinks in.
"Fine then!" she answers, "I will not vote what my heart asks for, but I can not let this Fey King run amok either." Mira flings an acorn at the trunk of the tree. It bounces off the trunk and lands rune side up.
SLEEP
Conner Thursday September 1st, 2005 11:27:10 PM
Conner surpresses a grin at Wilfire's remark. He rolls the two acorns in his hand...LIVE...SLEEP. Soon it will be time to make his choice known.
DM Kathy Friday September 2nd, 2005 2:28:59 AM
The Avatar looks at the acorns on the ground. Three of them say SLEEP, courtesy of Kadaz, Arm, and Mira. Three say LIVE, from Evan, Shadow, and Wilfire.
The Avatar looks expectantly at Conner and Uriel. "I have said all I can," he says. "Make your choice, and allow this Avatar to return to the whole that is Ebyron."
Arm Friday September 2nd, 2005 6:01:06 AM
Arm looks expectantly at Conner and Uriel, then grips the pommel of his sword in case the "live" vote presides, and the avatar resorts to violence. He knows that he'll not do much damage, but it'll be a long cold day before he goes down without a fight. He has seen his entire village obliterated by the orcs, and he won't sit idly by while there's a chance of nature doing the same thing to the Wold.
OOC: to Evan-ok, gotcha...thanks! :) MAN, this is like waiting for OHIO's election returns...LOL!!!
Kadaz Friday September 2nd, 2005 6:52:11 AM
His vote cast, Kadaz waits for anything to happen. Like Arm, he readies his weapon in case the fight breaks out again.
Uriel Friday September 2nd, 2005 7:55:22 AM
Uriel looks up at the tree and across to his friends sighing at the tally.
"I suppose that this one is useless," he tosses one away.
"I cannot in good conscience vote to leave you free in the Wold. I still do not trust your words and I do not believe that Nature holds some higher moral ground than civilization. Nature has not whithered without you and so I choose sleep," Uriel says simply.
He takes the SLEEP acorn and moves it to the base of the tree.
Shadow Friday September 2nd, 2005 12:56:26 PM
Shadow looks at each of his companions and waits expectantly for them to finalize their vote. He sees some of them a little unsure of what will happen next. "I am not sure we are the only ones to choose, just like the elves." He says really to reasure himself more than anything else.
Wilfire Ironhouse Friday September 2nd, 2005 3:51:34 PM
Wilfire stood at the ready, knowing that anythign could happen as soon as the last acorn was cast.
Evan Friday September 2nd, 2005 6:55:55 PM
Evan gazes at Mira a moment, distressed by her anger. He reaches up and with a gentle touch, he turns her face so that she is looking at him once again. He touches his chest, crosses his arms over his chest then touches Mira very lightly on the tip of her nose as he mouths the words, I love you.
With his attention on Mira, Evan awaits the final vote.
Conner Friday September 2nd, 2005 8:57:19 PM
The fighter mulls over his decision, and then drops a single acorn at the avatar's roots before walking away. 'SLEEP'
DM Kathy Sunday September 4th, 2005 5:18:33 PM
As the last vote is cast, the tree creature gathers up the acorns rises to its feet once again. "I think you are making a mistake," he says to those who voted SLEEP. "But there are others yet left to make their choice. Ebyron's fate will be decided by heroes throughout the Wold. I can only hope that they are not as short-sighted as you."
With that, he disappears, leaving you in the middle of a torn and battered city. The floodwaters have receded, and the plants have stopped tearing up the buildings, but the devastation from the past few days remains.
Mira Sunday September 4th, 2005 11:05:18 PM
Mira watches the avatar of the Fey King depart, and then slowly turns in a circle taking in the ruined city. Where to start? she thinks.
Forming words with her hands and fingers, she speaks to all, and asks, "do you think it is finally over? Do you think he is really gone?"
Kadaz [ AC21, hp 44] Monday September 5th, 2005 7:16:42 AM
Kadaz responds to Mira's questions. "I don't believe he is really gone. Evil creatures don't leave just because we ask nicely. I suspect when he comes back it'll be a nasty surprise." Kadaz then wanders over to inspect the two new trees in the plaza. "Birdie, come here. I need you to do something!" he calls.
Conner Monday September 5th, 2005 9:11:39 AM
The fighter looks about for a comfortable spot before sitting down, his back against a slab of fallen stone. His stint in the military has taught him to find a comfortable spot no matter what the circumstances. Within a few short minutes he is asleep.
Aftermath
DM Kathy Monday September 5th, 2005 11:08:58 PM
You watch the Avatar depart, suspicious, but unable to do anything more. You survey the broken city and wonder what is to come.
Over the next day or so, you begin to get a clearer picture of the devastation. The Shanty Quarter was completely leveled, and it is unknown how many of those poor souls perished. Several bridges across the Endless River were also destroyed, and several sections of the city sustained flooding damage, most notably the Merchant's Quarter. Even in areas that were not flooded out, buildings were toppled by uncontrolled plant growth.
Worse still was the loss of life. It is difficult to get a precise count of the dead, but it soon becomes clear that a significant portion of Plateau City's population is dead or missing.
And these are not abstract figures to you; as news trickles in, you begin to hear of people you know, people you've met, who have lost their lives.
You already know of Amy, crushed by her falling home. You also know of Baldis the leatherworker, slain by wolves.
Kethlorn, Baldis's son, is still missing.
Also missing is Anya, the red-haired bard, who has not been seen since the river started to flood.
Chersey Whiteberry, the halfling healer, was swept off a bridge near the Cathedral of Light and is presumed drowned.
Maline, with the Society for Draconic Research, was killed by wolves.
Volgick Stubblefallow, also of the Society for Draconic Research, was trapped for hours in the rubble of a fallen building, and died before he could be rescued.
Similar tales are told throughout the city, which moves from numbed shock to deep mourning. Funeral masses are held daily at all of the city's temples, and work crews scramble to find and bury the dead before they pose health problems.
Of course, some came through the disaster in better shape than others. This is brought home to you a couple of days later when you open your door to a sharp knock and find a stoop-shouldered human man standing there.
"Is it true?" he asks. "Do you have it? The medalion?" He insists on being shown the medalion you took from around the neck of the great wolf. Before handling it, he pulls out a pair of white goves and puts them on, then takes up the medalion delicately, as if he expected it to blow away at any moment.
"Yes, yes!" he says. "You see here, the Fae King's symbol? How is it that you did not use this in your battle with the Avatar?" [OOC: That was your DM's fault. Ssssh.] He explains, "All of the other adventuring companies that faced down Avatars did so with the help of some item, some small piece of the King's power. Once used, they disappeared. And yet, here it is." He gazes rapturously at the medalion. "The only one left in the Wold. The last tangible piece of these events."
He looks at you with anxious eyes. "What a triumph for my collection! I must have it! I'll give you ten thousand for it right now. No, wait! Twelve thousand. Twelve, and that's my final offer!"
Uriel Monday September 5th, 2005 11:52:19 PM
Uriel looks up, the amount breaking through the foggy numbness that has settled over him. He eyes the man with a raised eyebrow. Saying nothing Uriel tries to sense evil from him.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday September 6th, 2005 12:34:17 AM
Wilfire smiles openly and begins pondering what he's going to buy.
Arm Tuesday September 6th, 2005 6:05:21 AM
Still hopeful that Anya is somehow still alive, Arm tries to comfort Mira and the others with their friend's losses.
When the gentleman shows such great interest in the pendant, Arm steps forward and says, "Since it is the only one left, we couldn't let it leave our possession for less than 30 thousand...cash.".
Kadaz Tuesday September 6th, 2005 6:37:15 AM
Kadaz glances at Arm. 30,000? Well, well, this is getting interesting. Kadaz settles back to watch the bargaining.
Shadow Tuesday September 6th, 2005 1:11:08 PM
Shadow is very profoundly affected by the news of all of the deaths. He thinks back to his early life in the Shanty Quarter and wonders if he would have survived the devestation caused by the Fae King. He tries to hide it, but everyone can see just how devasted he is by what has been done to the city. He wonders, 'Maybe I should have voted for the Fae King to return to sleep. Oh, well no second guessing myself now.'
When the man enters and sees the medalion and starts to offer the group a large sum of money Shadow is taken aback a little. He then thinks the man is trying to steal it from them. He does however gasp when Arm asks for 30,000gp for it. Shadow will move back to the doorway to his room, and wait to see what transpires.
Conner d20+1=17 Tuesday September 6th, 2005 8:29:28 PM
The fighter has spent the last several days clearing and piling rubble in aide of his fellow citizens. The work was hard and strenuous, but through his labors he found some small measure of solice and was able to let go of the malice he felt towards the Fae King and all of the other gods who failed to act on behalf of those who died, believers and non-believers alike.
When the stooped man shows interest in the medallion and offers to buy it for an incredulous sum, the fighter cannot help but be suspicious. "Who are you, and what will you do with this medallion?" he asks. [Sense Motive=17]
Mira d20+11=31 d20+11=19 d20+11=26 Tuesday September 6th, 2005 9:46:58 PM
Like many in the city, Mira spends her days scavaging for food and some of the other amenities of life in order to keep herself and her flatmates going. Her light cross-bow or a spell is ever ready should she chance across one of the viscious river rats or other vermin the seem to proliferate in bad times.
At night Mira finds it hard to sleep as she is plagued with recriminations and self doubt. The sorcerer finds it hard to look any of her party in the face. In particular Arm, since he voted against waking the Fey King, and Evan since he was so adamant the Fey King should live, both views at odds with hers, which in turn, had turned out to be so wrong.
++++++++++
When the hunched over man exclaims over the medalion, Mira snatches it back. "Let me have a look at that," she says (Detect Magic, Spell Craft Check=31 (nat. 20!). 19, and 26.) She will wait until the man leaves to tell the party what she has learned. "I think Arm is right. We should hold out for more, but we should make sure the purchaser has good intentions. I wonder who is left of the city administration or if there are any Dragon groups in the city?"
DM Kathy Wednesday September 7th, 2005 4:04:51 AM
"Thirty?" the man seems taken aback. "Thirty?" Crestfallen, he shakes his head. "I cannot afford so much," he says sadly. "You have another buyer, then? Another offer?"
Uriel detects no evil from the man. Mira checks the object for magic, and discerns only a residual aura. Whatever magic the medalion once had, it is fading and will soon be gone.
Conner asks him his intentions. "I am a collector," the man replies. "I have many rare and valuable pieces in my collection, and I'd hoped....well." Conner does not sense any deception.
Arm Wednesday September 7th, 2005 5:59:50 AM
Considering for a moment, Arm says, "We have been offered 25 for the item, but we have not been able to locate the buyer since the last time we spoke.". Looking around at the group, he continues, "We are prepared to give it to you for 20...what say you?". Arm notices the troubled look on Mira's face, and wonders if it is regarding his bargaining or if it is something else.
Kadaz Wednesday September 7th, 2005 6:31:59 AM
From his seat Kadaz watches the byplay between Arm, Mira, and the collector. 20,000? That would buy a lot of doggie treats for Birdie. The dwarf reaches down and pets the dog.
Evan Wednesday September 7th, 2005 6:54:41 AM
Evan sp[ens his time employing his carpentry skills to reinforce and rebuild their flat and the buildings surrounding them. He helps with the rebuilding of Sampson's as well. During his free time, he makes visists to Zully as well as keeping an eye and ear out for any word of Kethlorn.
It is with some surprise that Evan listens in on the negotiations for the necklace.
Wilfire Ironhouse Wednesday September 7th, 2005 9:16:12 AM
Wilfire sits back and watches the exchange.
"I hope Arm knows what he's doin" he thinks to himself
Shadow Wednesday September 7th, 2005 11:04:58 AM
Shadow is taken aback once again as the group negotiates with the man. He is not comfortable with the situation and will move into his room.
Once in his room he thinks, 'Boy are we getting greedy.'
Mira d20+8=17 Wednesday September 7th, 2005 5:07:30 PM
Mira moves to support Arm in his negotiations. She is surprised that the rest of the party show such little interest.
A little gold would go far, she thinks. Each could gear up, the better to meet the challenges that lay ahead in these uncertain times. A little money could be set aside to ensure Zully is taken care of. Maybe a private school rather than a common orphanage? Donations to the temple of Alemi would benefit the victims of recent events, and maybe garner some favour for the group down the road? Much good could be gained if the mediallion could be sold for a good price.
The sorcerer studies the man and wonders how he would have the resources to collect artifacts when the town was in such disarray.
"Sir," she says attempting diplomacy, "I apologize if we seem rude or overly suspicious, however with things the way they have been lately..." Mira lets her voice drift off as she gestures towards the door of the flat and destruction that lays beyond. "Well, " she continues, "we wouldn't want the artifact to fall into the wrong hands. You see, this seems to have once been a powerful artifact and although it's aura is fading, one never knows what it could become should it's magic be restored." She looks at Arm, and then at those who have remained nearby, for support. "Tell us a little more about yourself. Where you live, your trade, your character, and who might vouch for you so that we can weigh your offer more favourably."
Mira signs discreetly to Uriel and Evan, I would be more comfortable if it were going to a museum or a temple, rather than a private collector. What do you think?
Diplomacy=17
(OOC: Folks, PHB suggests PC's at level 4 have goods and treasure equivalent to 5400 GP. Woldian PCs are supposed to be at 1.5 PHB standards. I dunno about you, but Mira's material wealth is, like, 1500 GP. 10,000 GP means 1250 each. 40,000 means 5000 each. I see an opportunity to role play negotiating a better deal. Am I off base?)
Conner Wednesday September 7th, 2005 9:24:46 PM
Conner nods his head as the man explains his interest in the medallion. The fighter knows the group could put the funds to good use and hopes a settlement can be reached, although he himself does not have the skill to negotiate.
Uriel d20+3=17 Wednesday September 7th, 2005 11:55:18 PM
{OOC:Uriel is very poor - which is only a problem when dealing with equipment... HA}
Uriel signs to Mira that the man is not evil, not that means he is good intentioned.
"Come sir, someone from Plateau City surely would not have led with their chin in an offer for something as unique as this medallion. Counter our offer and let us see if we can come to some accord," Uriel says. {Diplomacy:17}
DM Kathy Thursday September 8th, 2005 1:23:32 AM
"Did I not introduce myself?" the man replies to Mira. "Dear me, I'm dreadfully sorry. The excitement, you know." He looks longingly at the medalion again before setting it down. "I am Forthel Grek, collector of rarities and antiquities. I do not have a trade, having been fortunate enough to receive a modest inheritance some years back. I am known to other scholars and collectors in the city. If you insist, I can produce witnesses as to my good intentions. I mean to display the medalion, and possibly to allow scholars to study it. No more than that, I assure you."
He turns his attention back to bargaining. "I...hmmm. Perhaps if I sold....No. But if I..." He looks at Arm and Uriel. "I could, perhaps, go as high as fourteen."
Arm Thursday September 8th, 2005 5:59:33 AM
Arm checks his intention to go higher, and instead glances at Uriel and Mira with raised eyebrows and a questioning look to see if they wish to counter Forthel's offer.
Evan Thursday September 8th, 2005 7:28:55 AM
Evan listens to the negoiations with interest. He definitely agrees that they could use more money, however, he doesn't see how he could help with the negoiations, other than lending his support, so he moves up to stand behind Mira and smiles to the gentleman.
Wilfire Ironhouse Thursday September 8th, 2005 9:04:01 AM
Wilfire is already dreaming of spending his money.
"A magic flail perhaps" he thought. "Or a magical enchantment on me armor? OR both!"
Wilfire smiled to himself as he continued to think it over.
Shadow Thursday September 8th, 2005 10:18:46 AM
Shadow remains in his room trying not to listen too closely to the negotiations. He is just worried they will scare off someone that is willing to pay quite a sum for a useless medallion.
Kadaz Thursday September 8th, 2005 4:20:07 PM
Kadaz has the negotiating instincts of an ostrich. He knows when to remain quiet. Lets see, there are 8 of us. 14,000 goes into 8. No the other way round. If we each got 2,000 gp that would be 16,000. Too much. If we each got 1,500, that would be ... Kadaz considers taking off his shoes to use his toes to count.
Conner Thursday September 8th, 2005 9:04:38 PM
The tattooed fighter stands next to Mira and tries to keep from showing his emotions. He hopes Mira will accept this offer.
Mira Thursday September 8th, 2005 10:28:12 PM
Catching Arm's look, and satisfied by the collector's answers, Mira nods. "It appears we have a deal, Master Grek," she volunteers, "fourteen it is."
Laying a hand on the bard's forearm, she asks, "why don't you carry the medallion, Arm? Conner and Kadaz can escort you and Master Grek to his home. If the guard haven't got control of the city yet, the streets might not be safe."
Her back to the collector, Mira turns to Evan with a big smile, and signs, let's have a party!
Uriel Friday September 9th, 2005 1:30:03 AM
Uriel looks at Mira as she confirms. He smiles and shakes his head in agreement.
"I will stay here to keep an eye out for any trouble here."
DM Kathy Friday September 9th, 2005 1:56:11 AM
Forthel smiles, looking relieved. "Excellent! Yes, by all means, any of you who wish may accompany me back to my residence, and I will give you your payment."
A couple of hours later, your group is 14,000 gold pieces richer. Let the dividing-up begin.
On your return, you notice that the trees which had rooted themselves in the Open Palm Market are moving again. It gives you a bit of a start, until you realize that they are being controlled by a couple of Druids. The Druids appear to be directing the trees back to a small riverside park, where they had presumably come from.
Arm Friday September 9th, 2005 5:52:31 AM
Arm nods in agreement to Mira, and accompanies Forthel to his house, where he receives payment for the medallion.
Back at the apartment, he says to the group, "By my figuring, we each get 1750 gold from this. The question is, is this the best way to split it up? Should we donate some to the church to provide for Zelly and the rest, or should we prepare ourselves better?".
Kadaz Saturday September 10th, 2005 10:21:43 AM
Kadaz thinks about this a bit. "I suggest we each take 1700 from the treasure and donate the rest to the church we think is doing most to help restore the city."
Kadaz (2nd post) Saturday September 10th, 2005 10:43:55 AM
Something was nagging at Kadaz's mind - then he remembered. "Shadow - I loaned you 600 gp a while back to get a better weapon. Can I get repayed now? And I suggest we do that again. After we each equip ourselves see if we want to pool funds so someone can buy an item that will, in the end, benefit all of us."
Shadow Saturday September 10th, 2005 9:25:56 PM
Shadow hears that the group makes a deal, and so he returns to the main room.
He listens as the group starts talking about how to divide up the money fromt he newest source of money. When Kadaz brings up the subject of the shared money Shadow shakes his head in agreement. "I agree that we should pool our money again to outfit the group with proper equipment that each person needs. That does include providing for situations like healing and other sources of magic that unfortunately are used up with the use." He looks around at the rest of the group.
Conner Sunday September 11th, 2005 1:22:22 PM
"I agree with the guardsman, we each take 1700 gp and the rest goes to charity. If any need more thay have but to ask. Those that can will surely assist."
Mira Sunday September 11th, 2005 10:49:08 PM
"1700 each with the rest to charity sounds good to me," chimes in Mira, agreeing with Kadaz's suggestion.
DM Kathy Sunday September 11th, 2005 11:44:33 PM
Many in the group favor taking 1700 gold each, and donating the rest to a worthy cause.
Some reminders: you've put some of your past treasure into a central "party fund" for emergencies. You also pooled your resources at least once in the past to allow party members to buy better magic items than anybody could get singly.
You also created a "rent fund," which at the time would be enough to pay rent on your lodgings for over a year. That's assuming that the rent on this place continues at the same rate; the Plateau City real estate market is currently in a state of flux. To put it mildly.
Arm Monday September 12th, 2005 5:54:05 AM
Arm takes an alternate route and agrees with Shadow, "I think we should pool the gold for emergencies, be it personally or as a group...in these times, who KNOWS what will happen next? As long as we're well fed and have a roof over our heads, those are most important...with being properly equipped coming shortly after that.".
Evan Monday September 12th, 2005 8:02:03 AM
Evan takes his 1700 and adds it to the rest of his money. He gathers up his mithril chain shirt and heads for the catacombs.
Kadaz Monday September 12th, 2005 3:31:50 PM
"I'd like to pick up a magic axe and I will need 1700. I'd be willing to kick in anything I have left over. Also, if rent goes up we will just have to pony up then."
If noo ne strongly disagrees, Kadaz will take 1700 from the pot. He'll then walk over to Shadow. "I actually need to be repayed in order to get what I want. OK?"
Mira Monday September 12th, 2005 8:51:56 PM
"Yahoo!" Mira dances around. "I wanna' get some stuff that will help you guys out!" she exclaims, adding, "buff you up, so to speak! Sure wish I had enough for a wand and a ring. Oh well! Scrolls will have to do."
Mira settles down on the table with a piece of cheap paper and a writing tool. "Hey, Shadow!" she calls, "you wanna be Invisible, and Kadaz and Conner, watcha think of Bull's Strength?" Turning in her chair she catches Evan's eye, and asks questioningly, "Fly? Spider Climb?"
Mira continues with her scribbling, making a list of all the great stuff she wants to get.
Uriel Monday September 12th, 2005 9:51:56 PM
Uriel watches his friends silently as they forget the horrors the group has faced, with a slight smile to his face.
He takes his money and leaves the apartment quietly. When he is sure he is alone he heads off into the city.
{OOC:I will email you Kathy with some thoughts}
Conner Monday September 12th, 2005 11:05:36 PM
The fighter scoops 1700 gp from the table and ehads to the door. "I'll be back for supper" he announces as he closes the door behind him.
Conner searches out a stone carver amidst the chaos and confusion and communicates his idea for a memorial to the unfortunates who perished in the recent floods.
"I see it as a simple stone monument, polished maybe, to reflect the river, and the names of each of the victims from the Trade Quarter inscribed in rows. I'd like the first name to be Amy's. We'll set it in the Open Palm Market by the river. Can you do that? ".
DM Kathy Tuesday September 13th, 2005 1:26:42 AM
Arm suggests pooling the money for emergencies, but is overruled by companions eager to upgrade their gear for whatever challenges lie ahead.
The group begins making plans for spending their newly-acquired cash. Conner seeks out a stonecarver, but has difficulty finding one. The natural place to look for such artisans is the nearby Guild Quarter, but the flooding there was more severe than here in the Trade Quarter. Conner encounters one closed-up shop after another.
When he finally does locate a stonecarver, sheltering in the home of a relative, the man shakes his head in response to Conner's request. "I can't undertake a new project until I've set me shop to rights," he explains. "Tools scattered every which-a-way, and the whole place smells o' mildew. Ask again in a fortnight or so."
Elsewhere in Plateau City, the cleanup continues. People seem cautiously optimistic that the terror and destruction are behind them; however, there is an ugly undercurrent to the city's mood. Wherever people gather, there are mutterings against the elves. Rumors fly thick and fast: the elves caused the devastation on purpose because they envy human accomplishments; the elves are secretly in league with the followers of Martaeus; the elves were secretly warned of the flooding ahead of time and therefore escaped the destruction intact.
Arm Tuesday September 13th, 2005 5:52:13 AM
Taking his share as well, Arm contemplates what he may need in the near future. Noticing the souring of temprament toward elves, he decides to wait for Conner's or Uriel's return so that he can ask them to accompany him to the catacombs.
Evan Tuesday September 13th, 2005 7:22:48 AM
Evan returns to the flat, muttering silently under his breath a he discovered he has no where near enough to do what he wanted to do to his armor. So he carefully hides his money away in his room to save, keeping only enough for living expenses. He smiles brightly when he sees how excited Mira is about her own shopping, then frowns thoughtfully as he signs to her, [i]How much do you need for a wand?{/i}
Conner Tuesday September 13th, 2005 8:03:11 AM
Conner returns later in the day, weary from his search, disheartened that he has acomplished so little, and more than a little worried about the mood of the city. "It's ugly out there." he directs his comments to Arm. "They're blaming the elves for this, saying you're in league with Marteus." I think you should be careful for a while."
Shadow Tuesday September 13th, 2005 10:32:48 AM
Shadow seeing that everyone is going to use the money individually he counts out 600gp and gives it to Kadaz. "I think that is what you put into the pot for me to purchase my new bow." He looks at everyone else and says, "I know some others put money in so that I could purchase my bow, and whatever happened to the rest of the money that was in that pot?"
Shadow will wait to see what everyone else says about the money, but if no one else comes forward with what they put into the pot he will decide what to do with his new wealth.
Kadaz Tuesday September 13th, 2005 5:09:59 PM
Kadaz gives a short bow to Shadow. "Thank you very much. Now it's my turn." He leaves, heading out for a shopping expedition.
Mira Tuesday September 13th, 2005 10:45:40 PM
The sorcerer scratches her head at Shadow's mention of a pot. Pushing away from the table, the sorcerer looks around the room with a puzzled look on her face. "Now where did we put that stash?"
Mira remembers that none of the bankers in the Gold Quarter were interested in the party's small investment. She seems to remember putting it in a bag and hiding it in a crockery pot in one of the cupboards. 1364 GP and 2 SP if she's not mistaken.
(OOC: Does this sound about right?)
Uriel Tuesday September 13th, 2005 10:57:39 PM
Near the end of the day Uriel comes back with no noticable sign of his treasure or something purchased from the treasure.
Without any explanation he says, "I am worn out. I am going to take a nap and then go to Samson's to see if he is serving food yet."
DM Kathy Wednesday September 14th, 2005 1:17:26 AM
Off and on over the next day, you continue to discuss your money and how to spend it. Mira finds their earlier stash intact. Uriel leaves in search of something, and returns (apparantly) without it.
That evening, you are startled to hear a frantic pounding on your front door. When you open it, a man half-runs, half-falls through into your front room. "Help me!" he gasps.
You see that his clothes are torn, dirty, and bloody. There are bruises on his face, and blood trickling from half-a-dozen small cuts. One eye is swollen shut, and he clutches at his right arm as if it pains him.
It is a moment before you recognize him--Talereithin, the elf man from the Society for Draconic Research.
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Wednesday September 14th, 2005 6:55:12 AM
Drawing his weapons, Evan steps over the man to take up a defensive position in the doorway, just in case the man is being chased.
Shadow [AC 21/18 HP 20/20] Wednesday September 14th, 2005 9:45:34 AM
Shadow will leave the tending of the wounded man to others as he rushes to his room and grabs his weapons. He will return with his bow drawn and an arrow nocked. "Evan do you see anything?"
Kadaz d20+8=11 d20+8=23 Wednesday September 14th, 2005 3:19:32 PM
Kadaz pulls out his axe and shield. "Those that did this are not likely to stand against armed ones like us. Evan, I'll charge out to break up any chasers. Birdie, come with me!" With that, Kadaz puts his shield out in front of him and runs out of the door, intent on overrunning and stomping anyone chasing the elf. Birdie picks up on the tone in his master's voice and starts to growl. He runs out the door after Kadaz, looking for what the trouble is.
(bull rush attempt, but natural 3 so attempt fails automatically: use a hero point and reroll - natural 15, adjusted 23?)
Conner d20+3=14 Wednesday September 14th, 2005 6:59:10 PM
Conner picks up his shield and follows Kadaz out the door. He keeps his head on a swivel should danger be right around the corner [Spot=14]
Mira Wednesday September 14th, 2005 10:04:37 PM Oh! No! thinks Mira, and she steps away from the door and towards the back of the room, staying behind the guys.
Uriel Wednesday September 14th, 2005 11:40:23 PM
Uriel shakes his head and stands, moving over to the man and healing him.
Then he will move to his weapons to grab sword and shield.
{12 Points - if it looks like he needs 12 Also, Kathy did you get my email from Monday? I haven't heard back yet.}
DM Kathy Thursday September 15th, 2005 12:43:44 AM
With a little hasty preparation, you are out the door and ready to meet the new threat. You do see a large knot of people coming toward you, and can hear their angry voices.
As they get closer, and catch a glimpse of armed adventurer, cooler heads seem to prevail. Or perhaps they've had enough of their sport for the evening. At any rate, they stop about 30 feet from your door. Some begin to melt away into the shadowy night. Others stand, grumbling, where they are, but make no further moves toward your house.
Uriel is able to heal Talereithin's hurts. His eye shrinks down to normal size, and he flexes his wrist with some relief. "Thank you, Sir Uriel," he says.
Kadaz Thursday September 15th, 2005 5:43:43 AM
Kadaz stands outside the door ready to respond if the crowd advances. But as long as they don't charge he won't start a fight. "Conner, I think we will have to keep a watch this night. I'll go first. If I see trouble I will call for help."
Birdie settles in beside Kadaz, turns around a few times, and curls up for a nap.
Arm d20+4=15 d20+4=7 Thursday September 15th, 2005 5:59:38 AM
Realizing that Tal's injuries are due to the fact that he's elven, Arm remains in the house so as to not incite any further violence from the townsfolk. He watches intently, however...if his friends are in danger, he will advance outside to join the battle (listen=15, spot=7).
OOC: sorry for the missed post yesterday, guys...I was stung by a bee on the way to work yesterday, and unfortunately I'm allergic to them... :(
Evan ac 18 hp 24 Thursday September 15th, 2005 6:57:45 AM
Once the others have passed through the doorway, Evan resumes his defensive stance, his sword and axe held at the ready as he stares down whoever seems to be leading the crowd. His anger smolders in his eyes as he watches alertly, unable to believe that with all the death and destruction, there are still people trying to hurt each other.
Conner Thursday September 15th, 2005 7:55:36 AM
"You are right friend" Conner says to the dwarf. I'll be ready should you need me. Conner spends a few moments looking around the area and painting a menatl picture for himself of the layout of the building, points of egress, hiding places, and the like. Satisfied, he leaves Kadaz on watch and joins the others.
Wilfire Ironouse Thursday September 15th, 2005 8:03:58 AM
Wilfire stands ready with flail in hand. He eyes the crowd cooly, taking measure of each one while trying to place if he had seen any of them before.
Shadow Thursday September 15th, 2005 9:41:18 AM
Shadow will remain beside Kadaz with an arrow nocked waiting for the band of rabble rousers to break up. He will not do anything unless they advance on the apartment.
Mira Thursday September 15th, 2005 10:06:11 PM
"You'd better stay here for a while," invites Mira gesturing to one of the benches alongside the table. "Crust of bread?" she offers. "Glass of wine? You're Talereithin from the Society right?" While she tries to make the elf comfortable, Mira keeps glancing at Arm to see how he is taking the news.
DM Kathy Friday September 16th, 2005 2:05:24 AM
Under the combined glares of Evan, Wilfire, and Conner, the rest of the crowd begin to drift away, doing excellent imitations of people who just happened to be in the area. Within a few minutes, the street is quiet again.
"Yes, that's right," Talereithin replies to Mira's question. He smiles at her, but his eyes are troubled. "I--no, nothing to eat, thank you. But--" he looks hesitant. "Perhaps I could impose on you to stay the rest of the night here? I'd rather not go back outside."
Arm Friday September 16th, 2005 5:54:27 AM
Arm smiles at Tal and says, "Certainly, you may stay here. I myself don't feel all that comfortable about venturing out at this time...not ALONE, anyway. Pray, tell us...do you know if this is going on all over the city?". While waiting for an answer from Tal, Arm looks at Mira, a pained look on his face...clearly reflecting the turmoil that has been troubling him for quite some time now. "It seems," he says to her, "that no matter what decision we've made, us elves would be blamed for everything. I know I should not take consolation in this, but perhaps the prophecy meant elves in general and not only myself as the one to blame for what has happened.".
Arm - second post Friday September 16th, 2005 5:59:24 AM
"I fear," he continues,"that our chances of getting a job in the near future are slim to none, being that not only am I of elven blood, but we are harboring an elf as well. Perhaps we should look outside of the city to see if the sentiment is any different.".
Kadaz Friday September 16th, 2005 6:26:21 AM
Kadaz watches for what he thinks is 4 hours and then comes inside to be relieved. He goes straight to bed and falls into a deep sleep. His last thought: "If everyone was a dwarf there would be so much less trouble in the world."
Uriel d20+3=5 d20+3=7 d20+3=21 d20+3=20 Friday September 16th, 2005 7:41:51 AM
Uriel will go to bed soon after the healing in anticipation (or dread) of a late night watch.
He forces himself to wake up after roughly 4 hours and notices Kadaz has gone to bed.
He suits up in armor and weapons, staying near the door but also taking a small bound book with him outside that he begins to write in while keeping an eye out. Spots:5,7,21,20
Assuming nothing happens, at dawn he will stretch and move back within the apartment, to catch a bit more sleep.
Shadow d20+6=10 d20+2=10 d20+2=4 d20+2=12 d20+2=4 d20+2=10 d20+2=6 Friday September 16th, 2005 10:34:31 AM
Shadow trained for the night says, "Guys I will watch from the roof to help out. I am a light sleeper when in these situation, so will be able to help out if anything happens." With that he will start his climb to the roof. (Climb=10 - should make it, but what a low roll with a +6) Once on the roof he will go into his watch the mark training (which should be to find a comfortable position and use small movements of muscles to keep them from tightening up, and should allow for light, short bursts of sleep that will allow him to maintain his watch all night). (Spot checks=10,4,12,4,10,6 also not ery much help)
Conner d20+3=15 d20+2=8 Friday September 16th, 2005 5:14:09 PM
Conner wakes to relieve Kadaz but sees Uriel rising to take the dwarf's place. The fighter stretches back out and falls asleep, his internal clock set for another 4 hours when he will relieve Uriel.
Shortly before dawn, Conner takes Uriels place. [Spot=15, Listen =8]
Mira d20+2=9 d20+2=10 Sunday September 18th, 2005 6:36:17 PM
Mira tries to catch the eye of her comrades, and makes quick movements with her hands to Evan and Uriel, okay with you? she signs, before nodding to Talereithin. "Sure, you can stay with us tonight," she responds, once she has got the okay from her flat-mates.
Mira will collect what spare items she can, an extra bedroll from one, a rough wool blanket from another, and make a bed of sorts near the hearth.
"I can do an early morning shift," she volunteers, adding, "none of us should be alone." Regardless of her good intentions, Mira doesn't do a very good job.
Spot=9 Listen=10
(OOC: Any one else have ranks in sign language?)
DM Kathy Sunday September 18th, 2005 10:24:47 PM
Talereithin smiles at Mira. "I do not need a bed," he tells her, "for elves do not sleep. But I thank you for your consideration."
You watch throughout the night, but don't see any more signs of a mob. There are a couple of times, though, when you think you may hear shouting or commotion off in the distance. The city is restless tonight.
The next morning, you awaken (or come off guard duty), to delicious cooking smells. Talereithin has found your small stash of food, and has made a simple but tasty breakfast over the little-used cookfire.
While you are breakfasting, a gnome wearing the badge of the Catacombs knocks briskly on your door. "I have an axe here for a Kadaz Guardson," he says.
Kadaz Monday September 19th, 2005 6:06:01 AM
Kadaz jumps up excitedly and goes to the door. "My, that was quick! Thank you very much." He pulls out a gold and tips the gnome.
"Hey guys, check this out. My new adamantine axe!" He gives it a few practice swings but quickly decides that there isn't enough room inside. He goes outside to run through a number of exercises, getting the feel of this weapon. He then comes inside, puts on his armor and grabs his shield, and goes out to practice some more.
Birdie is quickly bored with this and comes inside. He goes under the table and creeps from one person to the next, begging for bits of food.
After a while Kadaz comes inside to rejoin the others. "I forgot to mention this earler. I have 250 gp left over, either to buy items the entire party will use or to lend to someone to buy an expensive item they need. What is appropriate?"
Arm Monday September 19th, 2005 8:05:40 AM
Arm says to Kadaz, "Would you mind terribly going to the catacombs for me, or at least accompany me there? I don't think it's safe for me to travel alone at this time.".
Evan Monday September 19th, 2005 8:21:38 AM
Evan quickly agrees to allow the elf to stay and is pleasantly surprised in the morning when breakfast is prepared upon awakening. He cannot help but smile at Kadaz's excitment over getting a new axe and is still waiting for Mira to tell him how much more she needs for her wand. After eating breakfast, he returns to the repairs on the house, his carpentry skills invaluble in getting the house back in shape.
Shadow Monday September 19th, 2005 9:49:41 AM
After a night filled with possible dangers, but none that materialize, Shadow climbs down off the roof. He enters the apartment and smells the breakfast the elf has cooked. He meandors over and gets some of it and sits down to eat. After eating, "Will you all wake me in two hours or earlier if need be." and with that heads off to his room.
He will try and get two hours of sleep before starting another day. Once he has two hours of sleep he will head out and help Evan if nothing else has occured.
Conner Monday September 19th, 2005 10:17:34 PM
Conner comes in from his uneventful watch and devours what remains of breakfast. "I don't think any of us should travel alone for a while. I'm headed to the catacombs, does anyone want to come along?"
Mira Monday September 19th, 2005 11:49:30 PM
Mira looks up at Connor's invitation. "I'll come," she answers. Catching Arm's eye, she enquires, "wanna' come with us?"
Mira signs to Uriel and Evan, "what do you think about inviting 'Mr. T.' to stick around for a few days? You know, if it isn't safe for him to go home?"
The sorcerer will collect up her coins and distribute them in her pouches. Wrapping herself in her voluminous cloak, she waits at the door for the others so that they can go to the Catacombs together. "It would be way too much, Evan, dear," she whispers to the ranger. Scrolls will do fine for now," she adds. The green eyed woman reaches out a hand and gently rubs the ranger's rough cheek. Her lips form unspoken words in a message meant only for him.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday September 20th, 2005 12:12:49 AM
"I'd love ta come wit yue" Wilfire said to Arm with a smile as he grabbed his gear and prepared to leave.
DM Kathy Tuesday September 20th, 2005 1:08:16 AM
The next day the crew heads to the Catacombs, and for various other errands.
Talereithin thanks you for your help. "I shall return to my own lodgings, now that it is daylight," he says. "I will just have to remain indoors after dark." He sighs. "Perhaps the city is not the place for me anymore. At any rate, I thank you for your help."
[OOC: Go ahead and post what you're doing today; I hope to start the next module tomorrow.]
Kadaz Tuesday September 20th, 2005 5:50:48 AM
Kadaz spends the rest of the day cleaning his equipment and armor, organizing his pack, replacing used or worn items -- in general getting ready for whatever comes next.
He also replies to Arm's request."Arm, I will be glad to go to the Catacombs with you. It's such an interesting place."
Arm Tuesday September 20th, 2005 6:00:17 AM
Arm thanks both Wilf and Kadaz, "It's good to know that I have such stalwart companions. Let's be off, then.". Saying so, Arm heads off to the catacombs, stopping to say to Tal, "You're welcome here any time, my friend.".
Conner Tuesday September 20th, 2005 7:22:19 AM
Conner gathers his gear and readies to leave. He will accompany the group headed for the catacombs.
Uriel Tuesday September 20th, 2005 7:41:07 AM
Uriel tries to comfort the elf, "These people are just hurt and angry, looking for an answer when there may be none. Don't make any rash decisions, there are those of us who feel different then those you encountered."
Evan Tuesday September 20th, 2005 8:34:30 AM
With a smile of delight at feeling such joy in a time like this, he watches Mira and the others leave for the Catacombs. He signs to Uriel, asking him to see if any of the more demolished houses in the neighborhood are available for salvaging then returns to strengthening and repairing their home. Once he is done, he will go to Sampson's and offers his services there to help with repairs.
Shadow Tuesday September 20th, 2005 9:55:22 AM
After breakfast and helping Evan with any repairs on the apartment, Shadow will tell the others, "I will be back before dark." With that he will head over to the Guild to check on how it is holding up after the recent disasters. He will also see how many of his old comrades are still alive and in the city.
Mira Tuesday September 20th, 2005 8:17:40 PM
Mira leads the way to the Catacombs.
Wilfire Ironhouse Tuesday September 20th, 2005 8:28:17 PM
"Catacombs here Wilf come..."
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