Together at last, Alone Friday September 30th, 2005 6:11:07 PM
The Blood Pack is gone and the cave is silent and dark. Some complain about the dust and since the small particles of matter are practically non existant in the land of perpetual ice, it must have brushed off from the strangers from the hot plains just before thier departure.
The Ice Vein group re-essembles at the entrance of the cave and prepares to make camp in the natural shelter. Most of the light of day is gone and trekking down the steep mountain paths in the dark would be unwise at best.
DM Note: Any and all lotto wins can be placed on charater sheets. Just send me an update Mikalus30@hotmail.com. Consider them found in the scattered destruction at the village when you were just there. XP and heo point are forthcoming. look for them early next week.
Aiden Sunday October 2nd, 2005 3:44:42 PM
Aiden wasn't quite sure what the others had been complaining about in terms of dust. True, it was sad that the gnomes were broken up, but knowing the fates, they would be reunited at another time, or place...maybe even life.
"It is time..." he said gruffly, even as he murmurred, "dust...bah..." Though soft emotions such as what was demonstrated was frowned upon at his native village, Aiden was at least familiar with it.
Aiden once again tries to take lead as one of the chief trailblazers, especially given the fact that it would allow Nauthiz to stand back and use his bow.
Garrett Monday October 3rd, 2005 8:32:07 AM
"Since it is almost dark, we should be camping here for the night. It's as good a shelter as any. It will give us a little time to discuss how we want to go about finding this avatar. And since this thing is loose in the area where the village has fled to, we will need to find it or them as soon as we can. Any ideas?"
Bohdi Nackle Monday October 3rd, 2005 8:39:57 AM
"Agreed," Bohdi nodded at Garrett's suggestion. "No sense rushing off into the bloody cold, I suppose. And it will give us all a chance to discuss amongst ourselves how best to handle a battle on our own ... now that we haven't the Bloodpack to save us any more."
Spell List: Gnome abilities: Dancing Lights, Prestidigitation, Ghost Sound, Speak with Burrowing Mammals Level 0: Detect Magic (x2), Light, Message Level 1: Endure Elements (x3, all cast), Silent Image
ooc: a reminder--I will not be able to post Tuesday and Wednesday, October 4 & 5; Thursday, October 13; Tuesday and Wednesday, October 18 & 19; and Tuesday and Wednesday, October 25 & 26. CS went around by e-mail some time ago--still need a volunteer.
Nauthiz'Ull Monday October 3rd, 2005 10:27:20 AM
The murky water has finished streaking teh rangers face. the talk of camping sets in as a great notion to the ranger. His wunjos and him need some time to recollect themselves.
"THere are many things that we should talk about. The Bloodpack has much wisdom that we can draw from.. Each of the Pack knew their placec within the group and their roles. They knew what each could contribute and maximized those strengths. I myself, would like to think that my bow will one day aid us all in times of danger. Frigg'Isa has showed me the great depths of the weather and Ull'Heimdall the wonders of Mother Nature. I will take a flanking or rear position during fights in order to rain down arrows upon our foes. If a higher ground can be reached wuick enough, I will take taht advantage as well."
Neco d20+5=16 d20+5=25 Monday October 3rd, 2005 4:59:16 PM
Neco finds a spot in the line up of adventurers. She leaves the leading to the rangers and the rear guard to those who are bigger and stronger than she is. The little rogue keeps her eyes and ears open (spot 16 listen 25 Nat) .
Night and Day Monday October 3rd, 2005 5:53:28 PM
The sun drops past the western Cairn and the land is plunged into darkness. torches and lit and the larger fire at the mouth of the cave blazes to life. Orange and red light flicker as the flames dance about the wood. The Acrid smell of pine fills the area and billows forth from the cave into the deep night.
Discussions go everywhere. Garret opens the floor on finding the avatar. Bohdi starts in on battle tactics, or rather mentions the group may wish to talk about them. Nauthiz'Ull agrees and volunteers to be the mobile artillery. Aiden appears quite content to be the point man in all aspects, trail blazing and fighting. Neco and the others remain quiet, they are after all quite new.
The night deepens, the cold beyond the cave intensifies and stars disappear in the deeper hours of the night. the warmer air of the cave creates a deep fog that rolls from the mouth, like that of a sleeping giant. Outside large flakes of snow begin to drift down from the pitch sky. Soon enought morning comes, everyone awakens refreshed and ready for a new day of challenges and dangers of life in the wilds of Ice Vein.
Edgler Vess Monday October 3rd, 2005 7:03:28 PM
"Bohdi, my prayers and combat abilities would have me in a support position, but I'm sure I'll fill any niche that is required." Edgler stands by the fire as the group makes ready to leave, in an attempt to absorb as much heat as possible. While marching, he falls in to the first rank behind the rangers.
Bohdi Nackle (Sub/Al) Monday October 3rd, 2005 7:36:11 PM
The cave mouth is dark and silent. All through first watch, it remains dark and silent. Part way through second watch, it is still dark and silent. And finally, there's little choice but to hit the sack or fail to be of any use what so ever to his fellows.
"Each of them knows their place within the group and their roles ... " Bohdi mutters a paraphrase of Nauth's words from earlier in the day. She wasn't coming back. Such wishful thinking to believe otherwise.
The next morning ... is another morning. With uncharacteristic quiet, the gnomish wizard hangs his spells for the day.
"So, we head back to the village and see if we can find out where everyone went," he says at last. "It shouldn't be too hard to pick up their trail. And the Avatar should be nearby."
Bohdi gives one last look into the cave mouth. It's still dark and silent. "Lets go," he says. "No sense hanging around here."
Dregar Tuesday October 4th, 2005 2:25:19 AM
Dregar finds a spot on the cave wall, where no wind blows into. He sets his pack down, and unwraps some of the wold meat, setting it over the fire that is set. He takes the bloody blanket and washes the blood off with some of the snow on the ground. Once good he rests on his pack and stares at the meat, watching it as it cooks. After a few seconds, he stands to his squat feet.
" I am new with ye, that much is determined. But I will fight beside you all, and give you my axe. I am strong in battle, and strong in survival. Out here, you need both."
With that said Dregar sits back down and stares at the cooking meet again.
Nauthiz'Ull Tuesday October 4th, 2005 8:29:57 AM
The ranger takes normal duties on watch and reflects upon the past days. He watches with interest as the stout dwarf offers his axe.
"Looks like Aidden had some backup now for the front line. You axe may not be as intimidating as the beast of the human's over there is, but I bet it hits a bit truer than his does." Nauth throws a meaningful wink at his ranger wunjo, hoping to lighten the mood a bit with some ribbing.
Garrett Tuesday October 4th, 2005 12:02:36 PM
"Tactics will be a little tough until we get to know all our new friends a little better, and their tendencies in combat. Obviously Aiden and Dregar are the front line combatants. With Edgler wanting to be in a supporting role, that would seem to move me to the front line in instances where more than two are needed there. I have no problem with this, as I enjoy mixing it up. I guess I will position myself depending upon the battle where I can be the most useful, either on the front line, or behind the front line healing and casting spells as needed."
"Back to my first question, anyone have an idea on finding the Avatar?" If it's mortal, it may have sought shelter from the cold. It may also need to find food. Nauth, Aiden, Any ideas on a good place to start looking?"
Garretts Spell List:
0 lvl(4): Light x2, resistance x2
1st lvl(3+1): Doom, Shield of Faith, Endure Elem., Magic Weapon(d)
Neco Tuesday October 4th, 2005 5:47:07 PM
The rogue listens to the talk of strategy, her eyes wide at the bravado of the big fighters. There will be a time and a place for her to demonstrate her proficiencies.
Return to Ice Peak Tuesday October 4th, 2005 9:44:45 PM
The following morning, the group heads back through the glacial canyons towards the remnants of Ice Peak village. Moving downhill the entire way is not nearely as difficult and good time is made. Well before night fall you arrive. The fresh snow from the night before blankets the world in a soft white blanket lending a peaceful and serene look to the devastated villge. Again, footprints that are not your own are easily distinguished in the new white carpet. leading from building to building and new freshly dug holes to the areas below dot the landscape. The day has been cold and clear and the night promises more of the same. The only oddity that can be seen across the village is three sets of paw prints, almost the size of a human foot wind their way through the village as well. They lead to various dug out sections as if the makers of the tracks were searching various dug out structure entrances for something. The prints join up near the wesstern edge and head towards the foothills.
Aiden d20=14 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 10:08:48 PM
Aiden takes a moment or two to look at the strange prints (identify who/what made them, if the animals served as mounts (some heavier/some lighter), and how many made them). Grunting, a small shake of the head at Nauthiz meant that wanted Nauthiz for further confirmation.
Survival (tracking): 14 + 4 = 18 (didn't know what ground/weather modifiers there were affecting the roll)
Edgler Vess Tuesday October 4th, 2005 10:25:19 PM
The dwarven priest trudges along with the rest of the group, but his thoughts are elsewhere. He almost seems to have an internal arguement going on inside his head. But that all changes when he sees the town ahead. "We are looking for some king of 'avatar' fellow, correct? Well, following those tracks seems like as good a path as any. They can't be anymore than 12 hours ahead of us. Do we follow now? Or do we make use of shelter for the night?"
Bohdi Nackle (Sub/Al) d20+5=21 Tuesday October 4th, 2005 11:09:24 PM
"This is a big animal," Bohdi looks down at one set of tracks, following it from hole to hole. "Nauth, Aiden, tell me this is a big animal. No, on second thought, tell me this isn't a big animal. Tell me it's just a small friendly animal with big feet."
Bohdi follows the tracks with is eyes. "I wonder what they were looking for?"
"You, make yourself useful," he says to Squork. "Go fly around. See if whatever made these tracks is still around here."
"You don't wanna know," Squork replies. "Trust me, you have that I don't wanna know look on your face." Still, if a raven could shrug, this one does, and launches into the sky.
P.S. Whaddya mean, it's pointless to hope to have her back? ; )
Dregar d20+5=24 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 12:04:24 AM
Dregar walks along the village looking around for anything. He nears a set of the large footprints, not near anyone else, and examines them himself to see if he can figure out what they are. ( Survival 24) He looks up as he checks the prints and makes sure to scan the horizon for anything as well.
Garrett Wednesday October 5th, 2005 7:58:03 AM
Garrett stays away from the tracks that everyone is checking so as not to mess them up. Instead, he goes to a couple of the freshly dug holes that the creature made, and tries to determine what had been below. Obvious signs that there had been a body below, perhaps bits of flesh or blood, scraps of clothing, etc...
"Just a thought guys....If this Eberyon guy is powerful enough to break himself up into little pieces and send them all over the wold as sentient beings, then he might look like anything. I mean, what's to say that he has to look like a human, versus say a really big wolf, or an Isswurm, or something native to the area. Just a thought......I gotta quit thinking worst case scenario all the time."
Neco d20+7=9 d20+7=26 Wednesday October 5th, 2005 5:49:33 PM
Neco leaves the foot prints to those who know animals best and instead searches through the abandoned town(Search 7). "I would think," says the little rogue "that people rushing out in a hurry would miss bringing some valuables." Neco frowns and looks through the ruins of another house(Search 26). The female notices something in the piles of rubble and grunts as she shifts debris aside. Panting the rogue uncovers an axe, a strange looking sword and a bottle. "Hey guys look over here at what I found!"
(L&B swag I'd like to share with the party-MW dwarven war axe, MW double sided sword, and an Elixir of Swim)
Tracks in the Snow Wednesday October 5th, 2005 9:37:33 PM
The group moves about the village, some inspecting the prints, Edgler talks of the groups next move and if they should camp here tonight or push west and camp in the foothills.
Aiden identifies about 4-6 human prints and amybe 2-3 big wolves. Who came first and who followed? The ranger can not tell as the wind has swirled some of the prints, making a time frame harder to determine.
Garret inspects where the wolf prints went and it was not the wolves that did the digging, but rather they followed where the humanshad apparently dug out some building entrances. The cleric also muses on the power of this 'avatar ebyron' and maybe the form it took in the Ice Vein is not necessarily human.
Neco moves through the village and looks into t afew buildings. The search pays off handsomely. A well crafted double sword, dwarven axe and a small bone vial. Markings on the vial depict a figure apparently swimming.
Dregar also checks the prints and adds some information. the human prints left the village more weighed down than when they entered and the wolves definately came in some hours after.
Bohdi too, wonders what the wolves were apparently looking for and sends Squork on wing for a look about. The raven takes flight and spirals out, returning a short time later, "All is open and white. The trail continues West for some distance into the hills.
The sun streams towards the horizon, casting long shadows by it's firey orange light. It is likely the village is the safer camp site. As the group moves about Garret begins to feel a strange warmth spreading across his mid back section.
Edgler Vess Wednesday October 5th, 2005 10:08:42 PM
"Looks like we should stay here tonight, just hope we still have those tracks tomorrow." Edgler walks over to the young rogue, "What have you got there? I knew it wouldn't take you long to impress the others," the priest beams. "That is a mighty fine axe. I could make good use of it, but I imagine that Dregar would make better use... if he wants it."
Aiden Wednesday October 5th, 2005 10:28:18 PM
Aiden relayed what he discerned from the tracks to the others...
"Large wolves and humans...not at the same time."
And then he took a few moments, and listened to Garrett. "Maybe..." he commented, "or he is trying to use some beasts loyal to find the missing parts or items of his..."
He frowned as he stumbled through the thought, and trying to figure out what was going on.
Garrett Thursday October 6th, 2005 8:07:25 AM
"It looks like either way, we camp here tonight, and follow the tracks in the morning. Either to our new village encampment, or the people that raided it."
Garrett stops, tries to look over his shoulder at his back. Then reaches around trying to figure out why his back is suddenly unusually warm. he then turns his back to the group and asks...
"This may sound like an odd question, but does everything appear as usual on my back? I've suddenly got a....weird feeling in my mid back. Like a bit of sunlight just warming that up extra warm, or something."
If nothing looks odd and he can't determine the source of the warmth, then Garrett will prepare to camp for the night, and start off by removing his armor to see if he can figure out what is suddenly warm on his back.
Nauthiz'Ull d20=6 d20=9 d20=1 d20=3 Thursday October 6th, 2005 8:22:41 AM
The ranger has been no where to be seen lately and after a while he returns covered in soggy ash.
"Been diggin around the old place, seems Frigga has left a could things for me....miss her....greatly...."
The ranger has spiraled into a very melancholy mood, neck sloping forward and shoulders as wrong as could be.
Nauth will help out for the evening, quietly and take a look upon the tracks that Aiden requested help with. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ No CS on me atm...please add modifiers for the following rolls... Survival(Tracks)-6 Spot-9 Survival(weather)-1 Know:Nature-3
Bohdi Nackle d20+2=15 d20+12=27 Thursday October 6th, 2005 11:34:59 AM
"I agree--let's stay here, and set out in the morning. I'll look for ... provisions."
The gnome could be seen hunting desperately, scouring through the village. He was picking up what unbroken bottles he could, and appeared disconsolate with each empty container. Eventually, he returned to the group, forlorn.
"No ice wine," he said glumly. "But on a lighter note, I found my scribing materials, and so I was able to finish some spells I was working on. I also found a stash of stuff over there near where my hut used to be. It looks like whoever was here had planned to take the stuff, then left it as too cumbersome. Might be useful, if anyone wants some of it--otherwise I'll just add to my 'souvenir collection.'"
Bohdi studied Garrett's back (Spot 15) for signs of anything unusual, then cast a magic-detecting spell to see if anything untoward was amiss. (Cast: Detect Magic. Spellcraft check 27, if applicable.) If there was nothing arcane involved, Bohdi would take his usual watch before retiring. His thoughts were consumed with dreams ... and how to control them.
In the morning, Bohdi would discuss marching and combat orders. He would propose:
Combat: (When space permits, use a "3-4" formation with 5' gaps between, permitting Garrett to Enlarge to plug the inside gaps and take advantage of AoO's:) -- Aiden -- Garrett -- Dregar -- Neco -- Bohdi -- Edgler -- Nauthiz'Ull
For those in back combat row, Bohdi would point out that he had the ability to cast an illusory archery position with opaque sides and arrow slits, so that those using ranged weapons could hide behind the illusion and catch their opponents unaware.
ooc: The items Bohdi discovered and offered to the group to use are: --MW hide armor --MW studded leather armor --MW heavy mace --MW heavy steel shield, and --MW Greatclub. He also found, but is holding on to, an Oil of Greater Magic Weapon +2.
In other news, Bohdi leveled and his spell book has expanded. I sent the updated CS around by e-mail. I'll begin including his new spells beginning with the 'morning' post.
Dregar Thursday October 6th, 2005 5:14:58 PM
Dregar gets up from looking at the prints and moves back to the group.
" Looks like thee wolves came in after the humans. The humans though came out heavier, probally after searching the campe."
He moves towards the fire and begins to warm his hands. He reaches down and scoops up some of the snow, he waits for it to melt a bit in his hands, and he brings it up to his face and wipes away some of the now two day old blood. When he is offered the axe, he shakes his hand back and forth.
" AYe, i thank you, but I got Snowsplitter." he says as he pats the axe on his back.
Neco Thursday October 6th, 2005 5:41:33 PM
"You can have this," Neco says to Edgler after his comment on the axe. "There is no way I could use it, so it would be better in your hands." The small human places the axe in the dwarf's palms. "Now, if only I could find a use for this." She now points at the double sword in the snow.
In the morning the young female removes one of her leather gloves and tests the weather. If it is a bone chilling cold she will open the scroll case on her back and retrieve one of her four scrolls of endure elements and cast it on herself.
Neco will be keeping the sword and Elixir of Swim if no one needs them
Edgler Vess Thursday October 6th, 2005 10:03:43 PM
"Thank you, Neco, this is a very generous gift. A fine axe indeed." Edgler takes the axe and replaces his old axe with the new one. "Your tactics are sound, Bohdi, your knowledge impresses me. I will be happy to undertake any role you designate."
Following the Trail Thursday October 6th, 2005 11:06:22 PM
Garret removes his back and the warm feeling goes away instantly. Opening his pack he investigates and discovers the large iron ring from the temple has not only shrunk to normal size, but it is warm to the touch. As the cleric turns the ring in his had he notices a slft glow appear in the band and as he moves the ring the dot appears to move along the band so it is always on the western part.
More combat stratedgies are discussed and Bohdi lays out a fairly basic but sound combat orientation. -- Aiden -- Garrett -- Dregar -- Neco -- Bohdi -- Edgler -- Nauthiz'Ull The gnome is also able to salvage wuite a good deal moving through the village and adds his findings to those that Neco discovered. Bringing the total to: --MW hide armor --MW studded leather armor --MW heavy mace --MW heavy steel shield, and --MW Greatclub. --MW Double sword --MW Dwarven axe
Using a building as a wind break the group sets up a watch, stokes the fire and settles in. for the dark night. Inside the snow mounds the group finds warmth and with small fires burning just at the entrances, the shelters errected by Aiden and Edgler are very comfortable. The morning awakens all with the promise of a blazing sun headed into thehigh clear sky. Likely the day will get progressively colder with no cloud cover and the snow may present troubles seeing to far with the sun blasting off the crystalline surface.
The tracks are still quite visible and the rangers have little trouble following them. Shortly out of Ice Peak, by a few hours the Wolf tracks break north by northwest. They wind into the hills and the temperature is steadily dropping now shortly past midday. As the late afternoon approaches those natives of the Vein begin to register just how cold it is getting. Fort DC 15 failure indicates 1d6 non lethal and fatigued It takes 30 minutes to set up shelter for 2 people Survival DC 15. DC 17 for 3. DC 19 for 4. this is the max in 30 minutes. ie the best a single person can do is set up shelter for 4 people per hour.
Remember on Fort saves for Cold add +4 for Cold Weather Gear. You all have it. Those with Survival can make checks and give an additional +2 to one other person, for every 2 points above 15. Please state who you are helping.
Yes the elements are coming back into play. Don't forget to specify watches if you're setting them.
Garrett d20+3=9 Friday October 7th, 2005 8:14:07 AM
With the forecast of a cold day coming from the Rangers, Garrett changes his spell selection to include more endure elements, and encourages Bohdi and Edgler to take 2 endure elements each, so that we may all be covered.
Garrett casts endure Elements upon Himself, Neco, and Nauth. Leaving Bohdi and edgler to get themselves and Aiden and Dregar.
After Garrett takes the ring out of his pack and notices the moving dot he turns to everyone else. "Hey guys, I think I just found out how we find this Avatar. I think this rings pointing us right at him. There's a dot on here that moves around the ring when you turn it, like a compass. But instead of this one showing the way north, I think it shows the way to the avatar. maybe that's why the prophecy told us we would need to get this ring."
If we are all covered with endure elements, than Garrett will suggest we continue on, following the direction the ring points us to. If not, Garrett tries to help Aiden set up shelter, but just gets in the way(survival:9 to help).
Bohdi Nackle d20+2=6 Friday October 7th, 2005 8:38:44 AM
Bohdi shook his head with astonishment at Garrett's description of the iron ring and uttered a low whistle. "That must be powerful magic indeed, Garrett," the gnome said wonderingly. "It displayed no trace of these powers to my magical detection spell. Only the most powerful arcane items are so disguised. That ring must be among the great relics of the Wold!"
"I'm sure you'll be fine carrying it." The gnome patted the cleric on the arm reassuringly before turning his attention to his spellbook.
"If we're expecting nasty weather today, I'll gladly prepare an extra spell against the cold, Garrett." Bohdi looked at Dregar, Neco, and Edgler in explanation. "We've often found that the Vein itself can be our most deadly adversary, and so protection from the elements is always our first order of business."
Bohdi included Endure Elements spells for himself and for Neco in his preparations. He had a few new tricks in his arsenal today, too, which he gladly explained--at length--to anyone foolish enough to listen as they marched.
When the time came for the group to set up shelter, Bohdi used his powers of prestidigitation to help build and reinforce a windbreak. Bohdi would take the first watch, as usual--even offering without grumbling. His long-time companions might have noticed a subtle shift in Bohdi in the past few days; his complaining had diminished somewhat, and his willingness to help with group efforts came more readily, if still not quite eagerly. Still, for Bohdi, it was a significant change.
He suggested that the others take watches, as well. With seven companions, it would not be difficult to set four watches--only one person would keep a watch alone. Bohdi proposed:
During his watch, Bohdi would chat agreeably with his companion. He seemed genuinely interested in the stories and background that these newcomers offered--another shift in Bohdi's attitude! (Spot 6) With all that chatting, however, Bohdi's attention to the watch itself was fairly poor.
ooc: Oops--forgot to roll FORT saves as a contingency. DM, just tell Garrett, me, and the rest of us if you want us to roll them despite the spells (i.e., if you rule that the spellcasters didn't get an accurate forecast in time), and I'll gladly post supplementally.
Aiden d20=10 d20=15 Friday October 7th, 2005 7:34:27 PM
Aiden listened to Garrett's revelation, and dourly thought, ~more reliance upon magic. What are we to do after we find this...avatar? Could the ring be leading us into a trap?~
Once they had come to a stop to build the shelter, Aiden began to work on making as big a shelter (4) as possible. This was important as the larger number of individuals were grouped together, the more personal heat could be shared by all.
With Bohdi's (or whomever wished to help) aid, Aiden was able to construct a fairly solid shelter.
Surprisingly, Aiden DID ask the gnome to explain his new tricks. Questions as to the length and distance of the tricks, as well as what it cost in personal...energy...was asked by the ranger in hushed tones. It seemed as if he was processing the information, putting it away for future use, as the mage explained (truthfully or not).
DM Post d20+5=11 d20+5=23 d20+4=20 d20+4=5 d20+4=22 d20=11 d20=12 d20-1=13 d20-1=10 d8+5=7 Friday October 7th, 2005 11:23:04 PM
I wanted to wait for more posts but I will be out til Tuesday so here it comes.
Endure Element spells are cast and all but Dregar is fully protected. (Unless he puts one on himself)
Without the threat of frostbite and worse from the cold itself, Aiden is able to take his time and construct shelters for everyone. 2 Shelters each capable of holding three people. the first has Bohdi, Neco, Aiden & Dregar. 'the other for Nauthiz'Ull, Garret and Edgler. Watches are set and stories are told about the fire for a time and then people begin to retire through the first watch.
Snow begins falling in the late evening as the second watch gets well under way. Neco and Bohdi exchange a few more stories as a way to pass the time. Thier clouds of breath roll out into the deep night air. "Did you hear that?" Neco's voice becomes a harsh whisper and her head snaps about. A mere second later Bohdi hears it as well. A heavy boot in the snow. A very big heavy boot. Suddenly Bohdi is still very young in Zaran city and his grandfather is telling the story of the Sne Kjempe, the snow giants that ate little gnomes if they were not good. Bohdi strains his ears as does Neco, both casting about to see something for what seems like an eternity. In reality, it is merely 3 heartbeats before a 6' shaft of bone flies from the darkness striking Neco. [Hit AC 13 Dmg 7 flat footed AC 12]
Bohdi still does not see them as his head snaps in the correct direction and nor has he moved before another 6' bone shaft crunches into the snow just inches away. [Hit AC 10]
Combat in the dark. The shelter mounds are next to each other a small fire near the north facing doorway. Bohdi and Neco are side by side 10 north of the shelters. The attacks came from the Northeast. Sleepers Listen DC 5 to awake. You can take full round actions. remember sleepers are prone and may not be wearing armor and certainly do not have shields strapped.
Humans have vision to about 45' low light is double this and of course darkvision is darkvision at 60. Spot is now DC 5 Highlight to display spoiler: {2 giants standing about 9 to 10 feet tall covered in thick gray and white long matted hair. Thick white fur seems to cover thier upper torso. Each has a large bone spear-like object in one hand and a massive wooden club in the other. They are 15' apart and 60 away from Neco and Bohdi to the northeast}
Neco (AC 20, HP 7/14, Shield) d20+5=11 d20+3=18 d100=75 Saturday October 8th, 2005 12:09:51 AM
A scream escapes from Neco's mouth as she is struck hard by the spear. Quickly she wheels around to see her assailants (spot 11). Hastily the young human throws a protective spell over herself Casts Shield. Ready for anything the rogue sorcerer holds her ground next to the Gnome.
Fort Save vs. Cold (18) Arcane spell failure due to armour 1-10 (75)
0 level spells: 5 per day - dancing lights, detect magic, read magic, touch of fatique 1st level spells: 4 - shield #, shocking grasp
(OOC: I will be gone from Saturday to late Tuesday and will not be able to post. If someone (or the DM?) could play Neco for that time it would be much appreciated.)
In the rounds to come Neco will... Cast Dancing Lights Use Wand of Magic Missiles until in melee
Dregar d20=12 d20=16 d20=9 Saturday October 8th, 2005 1:35:00 PM
Dregar crunches on through the day. No Endure elements was cast on him, but it didn't seem to bother him (Fort sv, 12+4+7+23) as he plowed on through the snow. He actually preffered it that way, with no spells, as he didn't full appreciate soemthing that wasn't real.
As the day passed and the camp was set, Dregar helped with the shelters, as well as cooking some of the wolf for everyone to eat. When watches where called he was glad for the second, but would have preffered to be alone. No bother he thought, he would get to know his new comrades.
Dregar just started to fall into a deep sleep, one of dreams of his family. Then he hears ( Listen 16+5=21) the scream and hops up. He grabs his axe, and his wolf cloak and runs out into the fire area. He sees the bone shafts and his eyes go wide. He then looks to the horizon ( spot 9+2=11) and his eyes widen in shock.
" GIANTSSSSSS" dregar screams as his mind travels back to the days when his village would have to fight them off. " GIANNTTTSSS" he screams again trying to get everyone up so that the fight can be fair.
Garrett (AC:18, HP:23/23) d20+5=15 Saturday October 8th, 2005 1:36:46 PM
Garrett hears(listen:15)the commotion outside, and rouses from his sleep. He quickly stands, grabbing his sword and shield that had been lying next to him. Fortunately, Garrett is already wearing armor, as he finds no undue discomfort in sleeping in his Chain male(endurance).
(If Grabbing the sword and shield would be considered a move action, then Garrett is done until next round. If not, because they were laying next to him, then he will move out the tent door also.)
"Edglar, Nauth. Wake up. We have company"
Edgler Vess (AC 12, HP 21, Bless 20 rnds) d20+2=8 Saturday October 8th, 2005 4:34:45 PM
Edgler thinks he hears something in his sleep, then Garrett nudging him, and Dregar's warning quickly rouses him. One giant is bad enough, but if there were more, their small group was in big trouble. The priest's first thought is to cast something that will help the group in the upcoming battle. A quick prayer guarantees the group at least a little help. (Bless, everyone now has +1 to hit and +1 on saves vs. fear)
Spells Detect Magic Detect Poison Guidance Light
Endure Elements Bless* Shield of Faith D- True Strike
*Cast
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) & Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) d20+2=13 2d4(4+2)+3=9 Saturday October 8th, 2005 10:26:39 PM
"Bloody hell!" Bohdi's eyes sprang wide as he watched a spear emerge from the darkness and impale his companion. A moment later, as he gathered his wits and another spear struck the snow near him, Bohdi scanned through the gloom with his keen gnomish eyesight (Lowlight vision to 90', Spot 13). Recognizing that most of his human companions could not see their assailants as he could, the gnome cried to his slumbering friends,
"Snow giants! Sixty feet to the northeast, a pair of them! On your feet everyone, quickly!"
Meanwhile, to himself, the gnome muttered, "No time like the present to try out a new trick." Pulling forth a crystal rod that glowed with a faint, phosphorescent moss, Bohdi waved his hands in an intricate pattern and pointed at the giants. "Hypnorum, hypnororum, iridenscis!" he chanted. In a moment, a twisting, multi-colored rune appeared before his face and flowed outward, enveloping the two giants.
Cast: Hypnotic Pattern. Area effect on 10' radius targeted between the two giants (overall range 130'), can affect both. Affects 9 HD worth of opponents, lower HD first (excess HD wasted), Will save 19 or be fascinated for Bohdi's Concentration (standard action) plus 2 rounds.
"I've cast a fascination spell on them!" Bohdi announced to his companions. "Hold your fire until you know they haven't been affected--attacking them breaks the effect!" Bohdi shifted his way to use the windbreak as cover between himself and the giants as he watched to see his spell's effect, his in-bred gnomish instincts granting him insights into the proper tactics against these furry beasts. (DM note: AC above includes +4 racial dodge bonus against creatures of giant type.)
Aiden Sunday October 9th, 2005 7:13:00 PM
Aiden, tired from the long trek, setting up of the tents, and then guard duty was a bit more difficult to awaken.
"*snort* g-giants?" as he tried to roll over quickly, and get ready to stand.
nauthiz'ull Monday October 10th, 2005 9:38:57 AM
Ears like a snow deer perked up on the rangers head (snow deer?). Ice blue eyes pierced the dark of the night at the shriek of the odd sounding gnome. A pisture of Bohdella quickly flashed in Nauth's mind.
The horror of a night shriek like that can send chills down a snowman's spine however and the ranger was quickly to his feet. Realizing that he slept with his armor on and oddly now tired from the discomfort (lol 3rd level ranger feat=Endurance) his hand instinctively reaches for Ull'Heimdall's bow and his quiver.
He immediately moves out of the tent as quietly and sneakily as posible and heads around the windbreak on the ooposite side of where Bohdi and Necco are.
DM Post - Combat Round 2 (DMiT RichP) Giants: d20+1=12 d20+1=10 Monday October 10th, 2005 9:56:31 PM
OOC: Sorry for the late post. Filling in for DanK and today's been very busy.
The initial attack catches the Ice Veiners a little off guard, but in quick fashion they begin to prepare to deal with approaching giants.
After taking a spear from a giant, Neco casts a Shield spell in the hopes that he doesn't find himself impaled.
Dregar paused as the spear lands near recovers and with axe in hand looks out and finds the Sne Kjempe at the edge of his vision.
In the tent, Garret roused by the calls of alarm grabs sword and shield and is at the tent opening (not outside yet). Meanwhile, Edgar slowly drifts into consciousness and instinctively calls for a blessing on himself and his Ice Vein comrades.
Bohdi having more of his wits about him sees the outlines of the giants as the light of the fire reaches out into the darkness. Two images can be seen and the gnome decides no time like the presence to use one of his new spells. Those outside can see a rainbow pattern of lights sparkle and dance before the Sne Kjempe pair. Crossing his fingers, the illusionist hopes it will hold the two at bay for a few moments...it seems to work. The two giants stand transfixed by the lights. Their heads drift back and forth between the lights and the camp, but they seem more drawn to the what's in front.
Aiden and Nauth hear the cries of alarm and muster slowly, or slower than other sleeping Icers.
OOC: Sorry no map. The Sne Kjempe are 60 feet from Neco and Bohdi. Just consider anyone else at the fire about 65-70 feet from the giants. I'll try to get one for tomorrow.
Garrett (AC: 18, Hp: 23/23) Tuesday October 11th, 2005 9:06:07 AM
Active Spells: Bless, Bulls Strength
Garrett moves 20' towards the enemy and casts Bulls strength
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) Tuesday October 11th, 2005 9:48:49 AM
"Slowly, everyone ... slowly," Bohdi cautioned. The gnome's brow was furrowed as he gazed into the distance, and beaded sweat reflected the firelight from his brow. "No sudden moves, and keep your weapons lowered. It looks like the spell is working."
"They'll stay there for as long as I concentrate on the spell. They're helpless, but if they notice someone preparing to attack them, they might shake free. So, everyone, take your time, get dressed and ready, and when you're all set, I recommend that a group circle around out of sight, approach them from behind as quietly as possible, and then coordinate simultaneous coups de grace."
"Again, as long as we don't act hostilely to them, they should remain helpless for as long as I concentrate, so everyone take your time, discuss what you'd like to do, and then take your time to do it as carefully as possible. Once you attack one of them, the spell will break at least with respect to that one."
Bohdi's eyes narrowed and his brow furrowed further as he maintained his concentration on the spell in the middle distance.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+5=15 d20+6=9 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 10:47:48 AM
Quietly the rangers head slinks out of the tent and listens to Bohdi's wisdom. With a nod the ranger goes around the farside of the tents with bow in hand but arrows still in his quiver hanging from his side.
The wolves of the Vein have shown many how to properly encircle and finish their prey, but maybe Nauth was busy daydreaming at the time {move silent-15 / hide-9}.
Nauth will maintain a radius just within his sight radius, keepinghis prey within view but avoiding the possibility of them noticing him.
Aiden d20=8 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 11:27:22 AM
Getting up, Aiden was about ready to exit the tent with axe in hand when his ears had picked up what Bodhi had done.
"good...." he responded quietly to himself. He went back to his pack area, and began to put on his armor including the gauntlet and ring. If there was to be a fight, now he would have some better protection.
(ooc: I believe the armor should take 2 rounds to put on...studded leather...
BTW: what 'size' is the MW studded leather that Bodhi found? Aiden might ask to use that, but being that he was made to be taller than most people in the village, it might not fit...)
Dregar Tuesday October 11th, 2005 11:30:33 AM
Dregars mouth drools with the anticapation of the fight, but he hears Bhodi's wisdom and realizes he doesn't have his armor on. He turns to the tent and heads in, and starts to done his armor as well.
Neco (AC 20, HP 7/14, Shield) Tuesday October 11th, 2005 5:32:22 PM
Neco gets ready to cast a spell to illuminate the area where the giants stand. She falters, not sure if it will interrupt the gnome's hypnotic magic. The sorceress calls up the magic in her blood and waits... Waits for the moment when battle erupts. She gets ready to help the Ice Pack if they need her (Held Action-Dancing Lights).
DM Post - Combat Round 3 (Thanks Rich) d20+2=13 d20-2=2 d20+2=3 d20-2=18 Tuesday October 11th, 2005 8:37:18 PM
The large soft flakes float through the air about as the Icers move in varying directions. Garret advances to the edge of the real light of the warming fires in the direction Bohdi named and is about to cast Bull's Strength when Bohdi's warning cuts him short. The ddep night stands like an impeneratrable wall before the cleric and out beyond it's borders are two Sne Kjempe. Nauthiz'Ull quickly realizes this problem if he is going to move off to circle the Sne Kjempe. The fires at the shelters are simple and low ember brning. They only throw light to 30-35 feet. Bohdi reports them to be almost twice that distance into the pitch of night.
Dregar and Aiden both move to put on armor. Padded, leather, hide, studded leather, or chain shirt Don 1 minute Hastily Don 5 rounds Breastplate, scale mail, chainmail, banded mail, or splint mail Don 4 minutes1 Hastily Don 1 minute
The two hulking giants stand in the dark beyond all sight save that of Edgler, Dregar and Bohdi. They seem to still be transfixed on the pattern of lights Bohdi is weaving, like the Skri Ajah of the deep winter sky.
Garrett Tuesday October 11th, 2005 11:37:34 PM
Garrett decides not to cast his spell as Bohdi declares that he got both of the giants with his spell.
Garrett begins circling around behind the giants waiting for the others to get their equipment on. Sword out, but down.
Dregar Wednesday October 12th, 2005 12:36:36 AM
Dregar starts pulling on the pieces of his armor, drool coming through his teeth at the thought of fighting.
" Why didn't I just sleep in it.?" he says to no one in particular.
OOC: STudded armor, donned hastily.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+8=16 Wednesday October 12th, 2005 11:11:14 AM
The ranger stops and strains his ears to listen for the whereabouts of the giants. Hib bow is still in hand, but at his side and arrow still in quiver. ~~~~~~~~~~ Listen-16
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 12:35:56 PM
"Well, bloody well get on with it," Bohdi muttered to no one in particular, the sweat beads on his forehead continuing to form and then crystallize in the cold. "It isn't getting any bloody warmer out here, or any bloody earlier, either."
He continued to focus on the giants and his eldritch pattern, his brow furrowing and his hand reaching out occasionally as if to twist or move unseen strands of webbing in front of him.
ooc: Al--back to you for Thursday's post. I will resume on Friday and Monday, then be out again Tuesday and Wednesday 10/18 and 10/19 (and again 10/25 and 10/26).
Edgler Vess (AC 18, HP 21/21, Bless) Wednesday October 12th, 2005 6:34:40 PM
Edgler hears Bohdi's directions and quickly begins donning his chain shirt and picking up his large shield.
Spells Detect Magic Detect Poison Guidance Light
Endure Elements Bless* Shield of Faith D- True Strike
*Cast
Neco d100=76 Wednesday October 12th, 2005 8:47:51 PM
The rogue/sorcerer stands at the ready with her spells. She tries hard to take in the positions of the other party members as she holds her magic in abeyance. Eventually her eyes slide from the giants to Bohdi.
When everyone is in place, she releases her spell, Dancing Lights, and 5 dots of brightly twinkling stars form a pentagon of light around the enemy.
Arcane spell failure due to armour 1-10 (76)
0 level spells: 5 per day - dancing lights #, detect magic, read magic, touch of fatique 1st level spells: 4 - shield #, shocking grasp
Aiden Wednesday October 12th, 2005 9:31:33 PM
Aiden continued to put on his armor (round 2)
OOC: what's the penalties of hastily done versus normal?
DM Post - Combat Round 4 d20-2=12 d20-2=4 d20-2=-1 d20-2=10 Thursday October 13th, 2005 12:35:01 PM
Garret moves off into the darkness to the left and soon is gone from sight to Neco Nauth and Aiden.
Dregar continues to strap on his armor. (rnd2)
Nauthiz'Ull listens for the giants, but they are silent, only the soft crunching of snow from the left where the cleric disappeared can be heard by the ranger. hopefully the giants have not hear the approaching cleric as well.
Bohdi continues concentrating grumbling as the rate of action his companions are taking.
Edgler Vess, too begins to put on his armor. (rnd1)
Neco stands ready to cast a spell that will light the area, but no one save a lone cleric is out there. She holds for now. Sounds of straps and furious movements in the two shelters easily keep her abreast of the progress the others are making. It will likely be a bit longer.
Aiden continues strapping his armor (rnd2)
The deep night envelopes the entire world past 35' of the low ember fires. Bohdi, Neco and Nauthiz'Ull stand outside the shelters gazing into it, the back of the company's cleric disappearing to all, save Bohdi. The giants, everyone knows are creatures of the night and likely can see all of them just fine.
All light vanishes to the clerics eyes and the world is pitch. A glance over his shoulder and he can make the outline of his companions some 40' behind him, barely visible silhouetted against the low orange glow. Somewhere in front of him, perhaps only 20' stand two Sne Kjempe, snow giants of terrifying power and completely at home in the dark wilds of Ice Vein.
The armor check penalty and armor bonus for hastily donned armor are each 1 point worse than normal.
Garrett Thursday October 13th, 2005 1:36:08 PM
Garrett changes his course of action. Since possibly casting a light spell may rouse the giants, Garrett moves himself back into the light of the camp.
As he nears Bohdi he asks "How long will they stay like that? Do we have time to wait for all of them to get their armor on?"
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) (Sub/Al) Thursday October 13th, 2005 2:25:10 PM
"For as long ... " Bohdi struggled out a careful reply, " ... as ... we need. Just so long ... as ... no one ... interrupts me."
"Take your time ... do this right. Smile. Act friendly. The better they like you the better for us. Getting close to them may set them off. Save that for last. Then, when we're all ready ... all together."
Neco (AC 20, HP 7/14, Shield) and Weezle Thursday October 13th, 2005 10:20:35 PM
Sensing an unnatural stillness in the small human, the tiny mammal pokes its head out of the warm pocket to see what is going on. Beady eyes take in the hulking creatures, and Weezle ducks back to the dark safety of Neco's cloak.
Neco waits for the others.
Nauthiz'Ull Friday October 14th, 2005 9:33:12 AM
Nauth makes a forced effort to slow his riled breathing. His chest rises and falls slower and slower until he knows he is Wolf. With this acceptance of the Vein's lupine spirit a reflexive and involuntary lick of his chops emerges. A smirk like that of a wolf happening upon prey with a broken leg.
The ranger holds still, in an unaggressive manner, waiting for light and companions. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ooc: Paul, Aiden is 3rd level now and should have the Ranger bonus feat of Endurance. That allows him to sleep in light armour without becoming fatigued or exhausted. A truly magnificent feat indeed as rangers should not wear armour heavier than light. That is why mithril is so popular with rangers as well, it allows us to wear medium armour as if it were light.
Garrett Friday October 14th, 2005 11:08:58 AM
"I will go in and help them get their armor on."
Whichever shelter that two of them are in, is the one Garrett moves into. Once in the shelter, Garrett picks a spot that is out of sight of the giants and casts a light spell upon his shield.
"Now that we can see a little better, let me give you guys a hand putting that stuff on."
Garrett will then start helping someone don their armor, starting with whoever has the more difficult armor to get on.
Garrett (cont) Friday October 14th, 2005 11:10:23 AM
(Keep forgetting to add my spells)
Combat Round 4-7 DM Post Friday October 14th, 2005 9:21:19 PM
DM To speed things a bit....
Bohdi remains concentrating on his spell. It seems like an eternity but it is actually less than 1 minute. With Garrets help the armor is quickly put on though not completetly thoroughly. A lesson now learned by everyone. the wilds of the Vein is no place to not be ready on moments notice. If Bohdi's spell had failed, the lesson may have been dire indeed.
The group now stands in the glowing embers of the shelter fires. Bohdi is 10' in front of the main group and can still clearly see the giants through the snow about 50' in front of him.
Aiden Friday October 14th, 2005 9:37:34 PM
ooc: sorry about the armor thing, wasn't aware of the rules on that aspect (I have to look up studded leather and see if it is light or medium).
Aiden slowly walked out. There had been no sounds of battle, and therefore, he wasn't going to rashly attack. THat was one of the first lessons that he had learned with his 'wunjos', a strange word that didn't seem to have something of the same warm feeling for any from Twin Tusks.
Before fully exitting the tent, "I cannot exit without the axe being seen, but I am ready...." he whispered....He was ready for battle however....
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) Sunday October 16th, 2005 5:15:22 PM
Bohdi kept concentrating.
"All right, everyone," he repeated with a heavy sigh and a continued squint. His brows were growing frosty from frozen perspiration. "Take your time, act friendly, circle around to their far sides, get out of their lines of sight ... and then whack the bleedin' buggers."
ooc: Al--back to you for Tuesday and Wednesday (I'll be around on Monday).
Garrett Monday October 17th, 2005 7:54:20 AM
Garrett starts to move as Bohdi directs, circling around to their blindside, but staying close enough so as to not move completely into the darkness.
"Let's work together on it everyone. We should all work on the same one until he goes down, then get the other. We don't want two of them fighting us any longer than we have to.
Nauthiz'Ull Monday October 17th, 2005 2:40:05 PM
Cursing the darkness and the absence of the moon as well this evening, the whitess of the ranger's eyes is all that can be made ouut as he stands at the right flank of the giants.
He watches the giants as the orbs of light illuminate around, a trick that he wish he could do.
Slowly enough an arrow is slid from a quiver and nocked to a bowstring. The faintest creaking can be heard as Ull'Heimdall's bow is tested and then pulled taunt.
Upon the recognition of the attack Nauth will let loose his first attack at the same giant that everyone elsse concentrates on. ~~~~~~~~~~ DanielK-Trying to get CS updated with all of my winnings and seals and the likes...LAst week and this week are mid-term so exams and papers are plentiful. I will work off of the level 2 CS for the time being and that will translate into Nauth being oblivious to his advancement(as he is no douubt in some depression based spiral).
Neco (AC 20, HP 7/14, Shield) Monday October 17th, 2005 5:00:09 PM
Neco casts her spell, lighting the site in order that her companions can see clearly.
...she releases her spell, Dancing Lights, and 5 dots of brightly twinkling stars form a pentagon of light around the enemy...
Arcane spell failure due to armour 1-10 (76)
0 level spells: 5 per day - dancing lights #, detect magic, read magic, touch of fatique 1st level spells: 4 - shield #, shocking grasp
Edgler Vess (AC18, 21/21, Bless) Monday October 17th, 2005 6:16:54 PM
Edgler exits the enclosure and is pleasantly surprised to see that the young gnome is the one single-handedly holding the giants at bay. Very impressive, indeed. But congratulations would have to come later. The priest moves behind the designated target then moves a throwing axe to his right hand. He holds his action until someone else makes the first attack.
Spells Detect Magic Detect Poison Guidance Light
Endure Elements Bless* Shield of Faith D- True Strike
*Cast
Aiden Monday October 17th, 2005 9:12:20 PM
Aiden frowns...he understood the tactics of the ambush, especially against physically stronger opponents.
But something just seemed quite...
dishonorable....
about this set of tactics.
~though a club strike would cure that...~ he thought wryly to himself, as he continued to position himself.
~as well as curing the fact that I'm alive...~
Tricksy Gnome Round 9 d20+2=14 d20+2=7 Monday October 17th, 2005 9:49:45 PM
The two snow giants stand somewhere in the darkness as Bohdi continues to concentrate on the spell holding them at bay. Garret has just finished the last man with his armor, Edgler and both emerge from the shelter. Aiden stands in the threshold of the other shelter. Dregar slips off into the darkness circling to the right. Quickly, the humans lose track of the dwarf.
Garret, Edgler and Nauthiz'Ull begin circling to the left. The snow crunches beneath their feet, soon Garret and Nauthiz'Ull find themselves in the deep night. Silhouetted at the camp they can make out the others but that is all.
Suddenly the two giants become as plain as Blood Ice. Small lanterns seem to float and flit about the large hair covered creatures. Both blink several times at the appearance of the magical lights and thier faces twist into deep snarls of rage. One bellows in giant Highlight to display spoiler: {"Tricks us little gnome with magics!"} The other cries as well Highlight to display spoiler: {"Sneaksy's little gnomes, Me crush you now!"}
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) Monday October 17th, 2005 10:47:07 PM "Bloody hell ... " the curse escaped Bodhi's lips as his the Giants suddenly lost their fascination with is pattern of lights. And he and Neco were awfully close. Awfully close.
"Charge! Charge them!" he shouted. Bodhi plucked a bit of fleece from his pouch, and slapped it between his hands. "I'll call Nithhogr to attack them from behind." As the bit of fleece rose in Bohdi's palm, regaining its shape, so too did the form of a Golden Dragon rise from the snow behind the Giants.
"Nithhogr!" the gnomish wizard pointed, "Tear 'em up!" (Silent Image. Will vs DC17 to disbelieve.)
EdglerVess (AC18, 22vs giants, HP21/21, Bless 11 rnds) d8+2=8 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 11:12:51 AM
It' hard to tell if Edgler's response to Garrett was a growl or something mumbled in dwarvish, but either way he makes his way over to Neco (R14). He quickly mutters a dwarvish prayer and places his hand lightly on her side. (Cure lt wounds: 8, burns Shield of Faith)
EdglerVess Tuesday October 18th, 2005 11:32:08 AM
OOC: Forgot spell list Spells 0 lvl (4): Detect Magic,Detect Poison,Guidance,Light 1st lvl (3+1): Endure Elements,Bless*,Shield of Faith*,D- True Strike *Cast
Neco (AC 20, HP 14/14, Shield) d4+1=4 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 7:40:51 PM
"Sorry" cries Neco from beside the gnome. "I didn't think a little light would interrupt your spell Bohdi." The human pulls from her belt a small stick. A helix of runes is marked into wood and the stick is capped with a little pink gem. With a flick of her wand Neco sends a single mass of magical energy hurtling towards one of the two hulking giants (Wand of Magic Missile 4 dmg to Gt2).
Wand of Magic Missile Charges 49/50 0 level spells: 5 per day - dancing lights #, detect magic, read magic, touch of fatique 1st level spells: 4 - shield #, shocking grasp
Fe Fi Fo Fum Round 10 d20+7=8 d20+1=8 d20+1=3 d20+7=21 d12+7=16 Tuesday October 18th, 2005 8:52:41 PM
The giants are aware of the group and Bohdi calls for the for melee endowed to charge. Bohdicalls out for assistance and a quick incantantion later a large golden scaled dragon appears in the snow silently behind the giants. Garret casts a spell upon himself and charges, intersecting the giants throw line at Neco and Bohdi. A brave if not potentialy fatal move. Edgler moves to Neco as suggested by Garret and cures her (8HP) Neco apologizes for her possible error and pulls a wand. A gleaming missile of energy springs from the small stick and strikes unerreingly into the far left Giant. Dregar charges in with his great axe and a mighty cry. "Haaaaaarrrrrrrrr!" Pounding quickly across the snow he strikes at one of the giants. The great axe swings mightily into the midsection of the giant. The small side step in the snow and the cold prevents teh dwarf from maintaining a good grip to is axe and the blow is quite errant. [Hit AC 8]
The giant struck by the magic roars back and lifts his arm with the javelin, but something catches his eye in the light just behind him. Both giants glance back and appear quite started by what they think they see. Both giants yell and bolt south away from the dragon and quickly vanish into the darkness. Dregar gives the giant nearest to him a parting gift to remember his encounter with a dwarven warrior. Blood spray across the snow. [Hit AC 21 16 Dmg]
Only Bohdi and Edgler can still see teh two giants
Garrett Wednesday October 19th, 2005 8:27:39 PM
Garrett's mouth hangs open for a second in amazement. Garrett turns and looks at Bohdi before finally speaking. "Well done Wunjo, well done indeed. The only problem I see now is how to survive the telling and countless re-tellings of the story of how Bohdi the mighty defeated two giants almost singlehandedly." As Garrett spoke a smile crept upon his face and grew larger and larger the more he spoke before walking over to Bohdi and clapping him on the back. "Bohdi, Master of Giants. He can make them sit and stare, he can give them a great big scare. I believe I will have to buy you a bottle of ice wine the next time we chance across some."
Turning to the rest of the group, "Well, I guess we try and get a little more sleep while the night is not yet ended. Obviously we are in good hands with the present watch.
Bohdi Nackle (AC 19, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) Wednesday October 19th, 2005 9:02:08 PM
"We're not out of the woods yet, wunjo," Bohdi muttered back. He pointed to the west. "They're still out there, although they're running. Don't let anyone drop their guard yet--have everyone regroup back here. They may yet come back."
Bohdi continued concentrating on his image and brought it closer to the encampment, to have it stand 'guard' against the return of the snow giants.
nauthiz'Ull Thursday October 20th, 2005 8:26:02 PM
Everything happens so suddenly and the ranger's head flips into a spin.
"What in the bloody...?" he mumbles to himself.
Suddenly two massive frames lumber from the darkness and past the dark skinned boy. He immediately backpeddles towards the rest of the group, arrow nocked in defense.
"Wunjos, that could have been bad!"
Neco (AC 20, HP 14/14, Shield) Thursday October 20th, 2005 10:06:22 PM
Neco lets out a big sigh of relief. "That was some powerful magic Bohdi! You sure were a big help. Just think of what they could have done if ydecided to attack again?" The young female sorcerer gives a shiver. The human looks at the hole in her armour and touches the warm blood that started to crust over the leather of her armor. With her clean hand she reaches out in a gesture of friendship towards the gnome.
Aiden d20=1 d20=20 Thursday October 20th, 2005 11:40:57 PM
Aiden continued along the edge of the camp, hunching low to the ground. Though the others, for the most part, were celebratory of the gnome's effective magic (and the resulting retreat), Aiden didn't want to be surprised witha quick turnaround by the giants.
Spot: 1 (can't see a darn thing) Listen: natural 20 (without any skill rank modifiers)...guess I heard something.
Out There Somewhere Beneath the Starless Night 2d20(2+8)=10 d100=58 d100=8 d100=48 2d20(10+19)=29 2d20(19+13)=32 Friday October 21st, 2005 10:21:53 AM
Garret if left slack jawed and buggy eyed at the can't deny it impressiveness of Bohdi's spells. And you thought he talked alot before. Note to self, against beings with a mind, Bohdi has got himself some whicked stuff.
Bohdi again seemeingly possessed by some other entity, waves off the begginings of praise from Garret and cautions the group that the Sne Kjempe may well return this night.
Aiden has been thinking that as well and slides beyond the fire light where he is not silhouetted against the glow and peers into the darkness. Well, it's dark, very dark. Aiden however does have other sences and puts them to use. Not only does he hear the heavy footfalls still moving away from the camp rapidly but by the sounds of them they have actually increased speed. Aiden also more grimly notes that there is no customary verbal communication one would expect from terrified individuals fleeing for thier lives.
Neco extends a hand of thanks to Bohdi, for she more than anyone knows now knows how dangerous the snow giants of the western crags are.
Dregar moves back into camp, his great axe splashed in blue, the blood of a Sne Kjempe. the dwarf is looking tired, very suddenly tired, but the smile on his face and in his eyes is one of unmistakable joy. Rushing headlong into the dark agaisnt two giants and coming back to camp in one piece has apparently exhilerated the dwarf considerably. "We should do that more often."
Extra cautions are taken through the rest of the late night and early morning hours, but the giants do not return. The snow falls steadily through out the remaining darkness as well and a fresh 2 feet lie across teh hilly landscape. Ealry morning finds all in preparations per normal. The cold is well felt in the early hours, stinging to the face and lungs. The ring in Garrets possesion points onward into the crags. The far distance there can barely be seen some sort of towering objects. From here there is nothing familiar about them. They are not mountains nor rock spires, but something entirely different.
Survival checks for weather dc 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Today Cold but within tolerance for natives of Ice Vein with appropriate gear. Tonight Bitter Cold Dont' be out too long} dc 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Tomorrow Cold but within tolerance for natives of Ice Vein with appropriate gear. Night, Not as bad as previous night} dc 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {Two days Cold but within tolerance for natives of Ice Vein with appropriate gear. Night, Not as bad as previous night}
DM question, would anyone prefer actual numbers in the cold or will descriptions do? as I just laid out I will start putting in actual weather rolls and survival checks, assuming you guys like this.
Bohdi Nackle d20+5=22 Friday October 21st, 2005 11:16:50 AM
Bohdi breathed a quiet sigh of relief as the giants did not immediately return. He shook the young human woman Neco's hand in gratitude. "Many shades," he replied, unconsciously adopting the speech of the Sargrass. "I notice that you have a few magical tricks up your sleeve, too, but I haven't noticed you studying. Are you ... naturally adept? I've always admired those who are."
Shortly after, Bohdi excused himself to rest, although in his dreams, he was troubled by heavy footsteps and creatures moving in the dark, just at the edge of vision.
He awoke in a foul mood--which, to his companions, probably didn't seem all that much different from his usual mood. Grumbling to himself, he prepared his spells for the day, conferring with the other spellcasters as per his wont. "What's it going to be?" he asked. "More protection for the group from the elements? I suspect that our rangers--" he indicated Aiden and Nauthiz'Ull with a nod--"Can do without magical protection from the cold. Shall we try it and see? It will allow me to prepare more spells for ... other eventualities."
If all were in agreement, Bohdi prepared his spells and cast just one spell against the elements upon himself. As the group moved out, Bohdi pointed out the two distant tall objects in the direction of the group's travel. "Can anyone make out what those are? Would everyone care to have Squork take a closer look?"
If the group agreed, Bohdi would cast an invisibility spell on Squork and directed the raven to fly out toward the two large objects, scout them out, and return to the group. "Take no unnecessary risks, even though you will be invisible," Bohdi cautioned the bird. "You are linked, you and I--if you sense danger, let me know, and come back."
When the bird returned, Bohdi would have it tell everyone what it saw.
EdglerVess Friday October 21st, 2005 3:26:59 PM
Edgler is very impressed with the way in which Bohdi handled the giants. In appreciation he merely clasps the gnome's shoulder then returns to the enclosure. Come morning, the dwarf is ready to move on. The night's encounter with the giants still fresh in his mind, he gives extra thanks to Gargul for the presence of the gnome. Once his prayers are complete, he is ready to move on. On the march, the priest takes his customary place in the marching order. Edgler squints as he tries to make out the shapes in the distance. "Strange towers... man-made perhaps," he says to no one in particular.
Garrett Friday October 21st, 2005 4:29:59 PM
(OOC: I think descriptions are fine.)(Garrett's spells are based upon the assumption that one of the rangers will make a survival check and determine that endure elements are not needed for the next day or two.)
"Sounds good Bohdi, other spells may work well, and sending squork for a closer look is a good idea."
Garrett awakens in the morning and prays for spells. Then gets ready to start the march towars where the ring points.
Neco d20+1=7 Saturday October 22nd, 2005 7:44:01 PM
"Well, yes, Gnome, I do happen to be quite adept with my magic" answers the rogue-sorceress "Although I can cast without the morning wasted in study, I have less diversity amongst my known spells. Sometimes I wish I could learn the variety of spells those who study have." Neco talks with Bohdi about magic and spells until she too becomes quite drained of energy. She then tries to find a warm place to sleep.
++++++
Neco looks to the rangers for direction, and if need be prepares herself for a morning like any other in a frozen wasteland.
Aiden d20=17 Sunday October 23rd, 2005 1:34:27 PM
Aiden nodded as he agreed with the analysis about the ranger not having to have additional protection against the cold.
"they still continue to run...." he added grimly, his eyes sparkling with delight.
Aiden would sleep through the night, and was ready to go early into the morning. Quietly, he prepared himself for the trek towards the mountains.
"Has he seen anything?" he asks Bodhi.
Dregar d20=11 Monday October 24th, 2005 12:08:47 PM
Dregar wipes his finger into the blood on the axe and then dips the finger into his mouth. ALmost imediatley he spits out the finger and a wad of spit.
" Bah. These icebrains aint even good eatin" he says as he starts to walk back to the tent.
" Wake me if they come back" he adds as he moves ito the tent and decided to sleep in his armor this time. .....
As they march Dregar looks up towards the sky an then to the snowbanks ahead.( Survival 11+5=16).
" Ahh it looks like its not gonna be that bad today, but tonight" he laughs" tonight is gonna be colder then a dead body." he says as he laughs a bit more.
Cold day in the Crags DM Post Monday October 24th, 2005 9:30:29 PM
On advise of the rangers and Dregar, apparently also accomplished in survival, the spell casters free themselves from the job of keeping the group alive in the cold and onto more diverse cases.
The weather is as promised, while very cold, it is not beyond the normal gear any of the group wears. Though this is day and so night could prove fatal to long exposure. The crags are quickly living up to their namesake, spires of shale rock split the landscape at every and while the rock is fragile it as been honed to a razors edge by wind and snow. Squork soars up and away towards the odd towering structures in the disatnce. He returns a short time later, they must be tall and fall indeed, for the raven flew almost 15 minutes and never felt he got any closer. They remain a tall dark mystery looming in the direction the ring beckons the group to follow.
Through out the day Aiden, Nauthiz'Ull and Dregar spot more tracks of Sne Kjempe. They criss cross the landscape, but no further signs are ever seen. The tracks found indicate 3-5 travelling together, and the various track sets are almost certainly not being made by the same group.
Shortly after Lunch SQourk takes another slightly longer flight. The group has losed another 6-8 miles and maybe the raven will have better luck this time. just over two hours later the bird has returned. "They are a tight copse of Fur trees. Taller than the highest spires of Zaran and no I saw none of the furry giants you seem so overly concerned about. The day is drawing to a close.
Local Knowledge of Sne Kjempe DC 10 snow giants, nocternal, not too bright, Powerful, naturally camoflauged, make weaponry, nomad hunters local to crags and further west, Solitary or paired only. DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { Ambush fighters, Family structure about 5 max} DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: { family 3 male up to 3 female, do not cooperate with other families}
Neco d20+3=16 Monday October 24th, 2005 11:07:39 PM
Neco marches next to Bohdi and tries to discern more about the gnome's training in the arts of magic. When Bohdi's familiar finishes relaying his findings, the young rogue sorcerer comments upon the Sne Kjempe (Knowledge 16). "If the Sne Kjempe you people keep talking about are anything like 'Snow Giants' they'll use gorilla tactics and try to ambush their prey." The small human reminds the group of how they were ambushed the previous night. "We should watch our backs out here. They could be anywhere in these rocks."
Garrett Tuesday October 25th, 2005 7:55:19 AM
Continue on, until the rangers determine what they think is the best spot for us to camp.
"The fir trees might make a great spot to camp. Provide shelter from the wind, and hide the light of a fire. As long as there is no one else already there."
Bohdi Nackle (Sub/Al) d20+4=19 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 11:47:19 AM
It had been a hard day. Sne Kjempe, giants of the imagination had lurked behind every rock and tree. More sleep would have been nice.
"Fir trees?" Bohdi gave Squork a look of skepticism. "So tall we can see them from ... " The gnome turned, and looked back in the direction from which they had come.
"Are you saying that I didn't see what I saw?" the raven complained and hopped angry in the snow.
"No, no, no, no." Bohdi gazed off at the 'Trees' in the distance. "Bloody big trees."
"Do you think we can reach the trees before dark, Garrett?" the gnome asked. "Wouldn't be good to blunder around in the dark with ambushers out there. From what I could see last night, it looked as though the Sne Kjempe could see us just fine. I wonder if there's some way to make sure they don't find us in the first place? Nauthiz'Ull, Aiden, any way you can think of to hide our trail?"
Too Far for Fir Tuesday October 25th, 2005 10:08:38 PM
Aiden and Nauthiz, both agree teh towering trees are much too far to make by nighfall, perhaps if they push tomorrow they can be reached. nerves throughout the day are on edge, but no attacks occur, leaving the darkened night. The temperatures drop with the sun and relatively soon it becomes dangerous to be out in the unprotected crags for more than an hour. Watches are posted as the previous night, but on this night thier is no attack.
Morning finds the group and the weather holds as predicted from the previous day. a bit warmer with the promise of a relatively easy march, at least as far as the weather goes. The hunters of Ice Peak and dwarven barbarian are quick to be thankful of the towering trees in the distance, for without them to mark a line, the crisscrossing of shale rock and broken hills could easily confuse any of them.
More tracks of giants are found and on this day other trails appear as well. The crags appear also to be the home of elk. The powerful animals hoof marks run down several gullies as the group continues to follow the rings guiding course. At long last the massive trees come fully into view and they are beyond description. The tops are lost to the heavens and the bases anchor into the ground at over 45' across. A gentle breeze shakes the branches, wood creaks and needles rustle against each other. The smell of pine is powerful and soothing. The stand is large, 30 or more trees spread to the right and left of you and likely that many are before you. the ground here is strange and smells alive. no snow, not rock, it appears to be like the barren wind blown sections of the tundra, but a deeper brown and soft to the touch. One can actual scoop up a fistful and even more astonishing, the temperature seems to be well above the surrounding area.
As the group ponders the sight a deep male voice calls out in common, though the dialect is rough. "You can not come! Go! Go Home!"
EdglerVess d20+2=13 Tuesday October 25th, 2005 10:15:37 PM
"Thanks for the info, Neco, I didn't know that about them." Edgler continues marching with the others towards the fir trees, but they never seem to get any closer. "You're right, Garret, those trees would be a good shelter, but I think we are still a long way from them. This terrains makes it very difficult to judge distance. I think we had better make camp and try for them tomorrow."
Bohdi Nackle (Sub/Al) d20+2=15 d20+5=7 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 10:00:21 AM An uninterrupted night's sleep. A highly underrated pleasure.
Bohdi's arms had risen in a stretch as he awoke with the morn. Once again, after having conferred with the other spellcasters, he selected spells for the day. The gnome had wondered idly what it would be like not to require protection from the cold as he applied the daily protective spell to himself. In his mind he had tried to picture seas of grass. Standing in the middle of a circle of ... dirt.
Now, fragments of his morning's musing came back to him as the group approached the incredible towering pines.
"That's still where the ring says we need to go, right Garrett?" he asked rhetorically. How could there be any doubt? And then the voice came. Reflexively, Bohdi raised his crossbow to a ready position. He peered into the stand of trees.
"You see anything in there?" he asked his familiar.
"Not much," the bird replied. "Want me to take a look?"
No, no, thank you. But I'll make a slight change to the spell list for the day, if it's all the same to everyone--just based on what was said on yesterday's post.
DMs: assuming that the party wants to "cover its tracks" to avoid being seen, Bohdi will prepare and cast Unseen Servant, with orders to sweep behind the party and remove all traces of their passage. In essence, it will be a tiny vortex sweeping up the party's tracks in the snow as they pass. Bohdi has two such spells for the day, duration 3 hours each, which should cover two marches, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. He'll also prepare an extra Prestidigitation spell, in addition to the one he gets each day as a gnome, to use for other clean-up jobs; duration on each of those is 1 hour, for a total of 8 hours of 'no tracks' coverage.
Garrett Wednesday October 26th, 2005 3:50:25 PM
"The ring points in that direction Bohdi. But whether what we seek is there, or far beyond in that direction we will not know til we arrive. Of course, if we circle the trees, and the ring keeps pointing into them, then we will know we must go in."
Garrett yells back to the voice in the grove. "We seek shelter for the night. Surely you would not deny us a warm place to bed for the evening. We mean no harm or offense."
Edgler Vess Wednesday October 26th, 2005 10:11:04 PM
Edgler is in obvious awe when he approaches the trees... never has he seen a tree, let alone ones this huge. When he hears the voice from the trees, he places one hand on his axe, but pauses, content to let others do the talking.
Aiden d20=3 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 10:27:25 PM
Aiden listened to the others, quietly taking the lead as they went into the rather lush area, but also paying attention to Garrett's directions (based off of his ring).
Hearing the voice, he does come to a stop, his weight shifting to a more guarded stance. His eyes darted, trying to see where there could be movement (or the origin of the voice).
The echo of the voice against the trees, and the quick response of Garrett's prevented him from detecting the source of the booming voice.
Spot (3 + 4) = 7
Neco d20+1=7 Wednesday October 26th, 2005 11:10:01 PM
The human tilts her head to one side, listening to the voice in order to detect some emotion...anger?...fear? (Sense Motive-7) She shakes her head, having not really learned anything.
Neco listens to the others talk about the ring the cleric named Garrett carries. "Maybe if you hold the ring out for the one in the trees to see?" she asks, adding, "it might signify something."
The Stand of Trees Thursday October 27th, 2005 12:14:29 AM
The same voice calls out again, "Go. Not for you!" but even as the words filter through the trees another voice calls out in seeming answer to Garret. "Ah so the children of the end dream seek mere shelter then? Led by iron and carved with austlander blood to this place but with no intention other than sleep. Du'Ga Oth lyna As' Gargul, let them in." The second voice sounds as if the wind itself speaks and even as it reaches your ears a breeze of cold seems to accompany it.
Garrett Thursday October 27th, 2005 8:55:39 AM
Garrett speaks relatively quietly to the group, hoping the being in the trees does not hear
"I don't like that. Perhaps I mispoke. I think it might be a wise idea to circle the copse of trees and make sure whether or not the ring is pointing us in to the trees, or beyond them."
"If it is pointing into them, then we have probably found the avatar. If not, then we can decide if we wish to rest here or not. I'm thinking this is one powerful dude to keep this area as it is."
Bohdi Nackle Thursday October 27th, 2005 12:35:34 PM
Bohdi lowered his crossbow in unaffected awe. "I've heard of druids and their sacred groves, but I never--I mean, you would never think that--" the gnome stammered in the face of the natural powers that appeared to be at play in the grove in front of them.
"I agree, Garrett. If we have time to move on before camping, and if the ring doesn't guide us in there, then we have no reason to risk arousing the anger of whomever--or whatever--lives here. But if the ring points us in there ...." The gnome swallowed hard and gazed upward at the lofty heights of the trees.
"Well, we ought to be bloody well certain, is all. And I don't like that whatever's in there can't make up their bloody minds about us. There's been too much loose talk about the 'children of the end dream' running about." Screwing up his courage, the gnome shouted back, "Who are you, and what do you know about the Ungmenni'Sal hvarfa?"
ooc: Question for DMs--I'm assuming, without more information, that we're roughly mid-day and have marked my spells accordingly. That also would suggest that the group would not need to camp in the vicinity of the trees. Please let me know if that's not true.
DM Note and Addendum Thursday October 27th, 2005 2:45:25 PM
All of Bohdi's assumptions are accurate
we're roughly mid-day and the group would not need to camp in the vicinity of the trees.
With that said,
As the group moves across the perimeter the ring shifts and points deep into the oversized tree grove.
Bohdi (illegal second) d20=17 Thursday October 27th, 2005 4:17:07 PM
Bohdi gazed at the indicator on Garrett's iron ring and swallowed hard again. "Bloody hell."
He looked up at the grove and addressed their unseen interlocutors in as loud a voice as a frightened gnome could muster. "All right, listen up in there. We've been asked to find a--an entity--that we have reason to believe might be here in your grove. We've been tasked with making some decisions amongst ourselves regarding it. We'd like to enter your grove now and seek this creature out. We mean no harm to this place or to any other creature that dwells here. We are prepared to come and go in peace."
(Diplomacy, untrained, 17.) "Bloody hell," the gnome repeated in a quieter voice to his fellows. "I'm no bloody good at this sort of thing. Here, now, Garrett, you've got that bloody cloak--you do the talking."
Dregar Thursday October 27th, 2005 7:58:54 PM
" We suposed to kill this thing" Dregar whispers to whoever is close. " or take him quietly."
With that said, Dregar pulls his axe off his back. Puts the head towards the ground and watches for whoever is in the ring of trees.
" If hes a druid, shouldn't the ranger talk to him. Aren't you close."
Edgler Vess Thursday October 27th, 2005 9:47:56 PM
"Well! If the ring says we go in, then go in it is!" Confidently, the priest of Gargul walks into the trees.
Neco d20+8=27 d20+8=25 d20+7=21 Thursday October 27th, 2005 10:44:28 PM
The roguish human moves into the coniferous grove independently from the group. If they get ambushed she can make a surprise attack of her own. Neco moves into the cover of the trees (Hide 27) and creeps into the grove (Move silently 25). The rogue keeps the Ice Pack in view and makes sure not to miss anything (Search 21).
Through the Wood Thursday October 27th, 2005 11:39:28 PM
Du'Ga Oth lyna As' Gargul, the words the second voice spoke most definately seemed to be name and perhaps title. Within moments that suspision is confirmed as the passes the first of the massive trunks. Standing back from the path you now take is an enormous white tiger. Blood practically freezes in your veins as a mere 60' away is a legendary Ice cat. Nearly the size of an mammoth, the cat simply stares at you with unreadable blue ice eyes. The second voice calls again. "You are granted safe passage Ungmenni'Sal hvarfa. I've been expecting you and no I don't think you are kill me."
Stepping from around a massive trunk is a small rather odd being. He stands a mere 3" tall but appears to weight almost 100 pounds, but is not fat. His thick long beard and hair suggest dwarven descent but his pale skin, pointed ears and angular ice eyes suggest elven. Dressed in soft leather dyed an azure and belted with a pair of small sized long swords he smiles. In one hand he holds a snowball and the other twirls a small stemed flower.
"I am As'Frest Kjoukallur Frest and you have been touched by Maab and are the Ungmenni'Sal hvarfa. This may prove to be rather fun."
He stands with a smile, the snowball bouncing in his hand about 80' from you. The cat seems to be disinterested and in two short bounds is lost to sight exiting the massive grove and into the deep crags and snow.
Aiden Friday October 28th, 2005 7:10:20 AM
Aiden did a very strange thing, something quite unusual for someone from Twin Tusks.
When he saw the snow tiger, a creature whispered of around campfires, who represented strength and savagery (in battle)....he gawked.
His attention was brought back to the strange dwarf/elf man who kept mentioning something about 'fun', but only momentarily. His eyes went back to the broad creature, something that carried a beauty in and of itself.
The axehead seemed to lay against his foot as he watched the creature bound away, a smile creeping to his face. He seemed to remain quite silent, almost holding his breath in amazement.
How many of Twin Tusks ever laid claim to having seen the Snow Tiger, and live? Of course, those of Twin Tusks usually barked or growled a strange war cry, and would attack it on first sight.
But how could you attack such a beautiful creature?!? Something that the others would try to emulate in the village in their mock war battles.
Once it was out of sight, his attention turned back towards the dwarf/elf named Frest. His smile turned into something much more neutral. Let the others talk to this bantering .... person....perhaps they could get him to give more information about their journey.
Bohdi Nackle d20=17 d20=20 Friday October 28th, 2005 9:28:58 AM
Trying to appear nonchalant, Bohdi walked over to stand near Garrett. (Bluff, untrained, 17.) "Transmuto dicta incognitus," the gnome whispered, and pointed a darting finger at Garrett, Neco, and himself. (Cast: Message. 3 targets, range 130', duration 30 minutes.)
"Garrett, Neco, the three of us can speak quietly now, so that we can coordinate the group," Bohdi whispered. "Neco, it's probably best that you stay hidden, just as you've done. Garrett, what does the ring show? Is this As'Frest Kjoukallur Frest fellow the one we're looking for?"
Bohdi looked meaningfully at the rest of his companions, arching his eyebrows and holding up a staying hand that suggested no rash actions. In an audible voice, Bohdi addressed the strange, stout creature before them. "As'Frest Kjoukallur Frest, greetings. I am Bohdi Nackle. My companions here are of Ice Peak Village and the wastes of the Vein. We have traveled here on a mission, as you seem to know. You have us at a disadvantage. You know much about us. We, however, know little of you. Tell us, what is this place, and what is your role here? And if you know that of which we seek, where may we find it?"
(Diplomacy, untrained, nat 20!)
Whispering to Garrett, Bohdi added, "Help me out here, wunjo. I think that was about as good as I can do."
Kup edit: oops. That Diplomacy roll probably should be properly characterized as Gather Information. Both CHA-based, so same result.
Garrett Friday October 28th, 2005 11:29:28 AM
Garrett thinks back to Bohdi "I'm the strong silent type, remember. That cloak ain't gonna make me chatty all of a sudden, but I think you covered all the bases pretty well there. Hold on a sec while I check the ring, and If I can think of anything else to add to your conversation I'll think it at you."
Garrett looks at the ring to determine if it is pointing dead straight at the being before us.
DM Note: It IS
Dregar Friday October 28th, 2005 1:48:55 PM
Dregar watches as the ice cat stands a stones throw away, his eyes meeting with it for a split second, and then it was gone. Dregar shook his head to get rid of the cobwebs and then looked to the strange creature. HIs axe quietly came off his back and laid the head by his feet.
" IS this the one we seek?" he asks whoever is near him.
Neco d20+1=15 d20+8=25 d20+8=21 d20+7=10 Friday October 28th, 2005 7:43:38 PM Fun!! What does he mean by fun! The small rogue is rather confused as to whether this odd looking dwarf is good or bad. Trying to guess what the strange man's intentions are (Sense motive 15), Neco moves to a position in the grove behind him (Move silently 25 Hide 21).
"OK Bohdi, I'll stay put." The young human responds to the gnome. "I will also keep an eye out for that big wild cat monster for you." (Search 10)
Parlay Friday October 28th, 2005 9:42:41 PM
The cat is lost to sight as it apparently leaves the area. Looking towards Bohdi, a smile still upon his face, the strange little man idly tosses the snowball up and down. "I am Kjoukallur Frest. and as far as what you seek, well my good little gnome I am that as well. I would say you know just as much about me as I of you. Maab showed you the dream, treacherous little imp that she is and then set her hounds to hunt." He starts idly pacing about and then turns, "She's jealous you know, they all are, For we were the Wold, we were everything, but unfortunately we were also blind and were then tricked to slumber. Imagine my delight when the elf song poured forth to us, imagine our horror at what has been wrought upon our beloved children, but now I think they are doing much better."
As he moves he does not seem to be aware of Neco moving to his flank. "Maab was suppose to come herself, but the little witch sent others, lackeys, like those of the plains." With a chuckle that sounds a bit sadistic he pauses. "imagine there surprise upon returning home eh? So here we are, here I am and here you are. But entirely not what I expected. You seem bright, much brighter than I thought. I knew you were coming you see, because you have my ring. So what do you propose to do?"
He plops to the ground and places the flower in his teeth and admires his snowball and then almost as an afterthought he speaks "This place young gnome? This is the place of what could be. And this," the snow ball settles in his hand. "This is what is. So again I say shall it be fisticuffs young ones or fun? For to use the acorns I must submit."
Bohdi Nackle d20=7 Sunday October 30th, 2005 12:03:35 AM
Bohdi frowned and considered the strange ur-dwarf. "Nothing rash," Bohdi whispered to Garrett and Neco. "Let's keep everyone under control here. Neco, stay where you are."
Bohdi cocked his head and studied their interlocutor. After a moment, the gnome shrugged, crossed his legs, and sat, bidding the others to do so as well.
"Kjoukallur Frest, it would indeed appear that you are the one whom we seek. And you are right, too, that we received a vision, apparently from Maab. By the presence of this impossibly situated grove, and the creature we encountered that seems at your beck and call, it is clear to me, at least, that we are no match for the power you possess. If you must 'submit' to us, as you say, then it will be a submission of your choosing, not ours."
"So, tell us. How do we proceed? Much blood has been shed, and many lives lost, over this struggle." AND WHAT IN BLOODY HELL DID YOU DO TO THE BLOODPACK, YOU STINKING SOD? Bohdi wanted to scream. But he didn't.
"We are isolated here, and yet, even through our dreams and what little we have seen with our own eyes, we have witnessed aught of the devastation and destruction that the Wold has suffered in this ... awakening."
"Maab has given us each three lots to cast: to sleep, to live, to die. Tell us--how would you have us choose? What guidance would you offer?"
Dregar Sunday October 30th, 2005 2:21:01 PM
Dregar looks a little confused at the talking going back and forth between the dwarf/gnome and Bhodi. When it appears that there is no chance for a fight Dregar's face scrunches up. He turns and kicks a rock a few feet away and then plops down on the ground. His axe across his lap.
Neco d20+8=23 Sunday October 30th, 2005 5:09:52 PM
Neco stays rooted to her spot in the trees (Hide 23), behind 'Kjoukallur Frest'. Neco relaxes in the warmth of the grove, removes her hood and pushes her bangs out of her eyes.
(OOC DM should I keep rolling for hide?)
DM You only need to re roll the HIde if you move more feet than you have ranks in Hide
Aiden d20=11 d20=12 d20=16 Sunday October 30th, 2005 9:03:03 PM
Aiden kept quiet, maintaining a weary (and wary) eye upon the 'dwarf' (and the area behind the creatures).
(If possible, he will stand by the 'diplomat' as a form of body guard, including wearing the typical big/dumb bodyguard-thug facial look)
It seemed rather, ironic, that both sides sought to use the young men and women of the village to upset the balance of Maab and Frest. It was almost always occurring within nature, the battle between the male and female over some tasks or responsibilities.
What were Maab and Frest bickering over? And how would the ice ants, and other humans, survive over the choice(s) that the young group will make.
~...sleep...die...and live. Are these lots to determine our future or Frest and Maab's? Or are we to be like these two beings, and choose at random? It seems almost...unnatural...for us to be involved in this.~ And then with a touch of resignation, ~this is our role and we must do this wisely...for much is at stake...~
listen: 11 + 4 = 15 Spot: 12 + 4 = 16
Garrett Monday October 31st, 2005 8:36:23 AM
Garrett thinks to Bohdi. "Easy Wunjo, you are doing well. You should continue the talking, and remember the dream. The last thing we were told was that we must defeat the avatar, and then we may choose his fate with the acorns. The ring points directly at him."
"You must outsmart him, or trick him somehow. I don't know how else we would defeat him with the power he likely has. Remember who and what he is. He is a part of Eberyon. And everything we've learned about Eberyon says that he is Chaos itself. As untamed as nature and just wild. A gentle snowflake one minute, and the mother of all blizzards the next. He should be prone to whimsy, doing things at the spur of the moment. That is all I can think of to help you. Perhaps ask him what he means by fun, or even ask him to surrender to us."
"He also said that to use the acorns, he must submit. Perhaps they have some power over him."
EdglerVess Monday October 31st, 2005 9:59:23 AM
Edgler moves off to the creature's flank, not knowing what to expect. The dwarf stands there with no weapon in his hand, but the tension is evident in his face. He absentmindedly strokes his red beard as he watches this encounter play out.
Proceeding as Requested d20+8=15 d20+10=14 Monday October 31st, 2005 4:53:33 PM
A glint seems to catch his eye, "Proceed you ask? Hmm let me think." The strange little man stands back up and likewise does any in the party who were seated. He still seems unaware of Neco, but does give a sideling glance to Edgler as he cocks his head to one side as if thinking.
"well if you say too much blood has been spilled then I think we should avoid further wanton destruction. So why not then just cast your vote in favor of life. That would be my remaining awoken here in Wold. The land will benefit, your lives made easier and I will do you a favor. Perhaps you have heard of the fabled catacombs. I can breach the barrier and create a pernament portal within your village."
He pauses a moment or two, "Or..." the words hang in the air and the temperature starts to fall and so to does some snow. With another quick smile his hand cocks and the snowball launches at Bohdi. The small ball of packed snow whizzes just past the gnome and impacts with a POP! against a tree behind him.
Flinging his hands up he gets a rather disgusted look on his face "Ahhh! I can't believe I missed you." Soon a big smile leaps to his mouth, the prverbial cat and the canary grin and he quickly stoops gathering more snow.
Bohdi Nackle (AC 15, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) d20+5=23 d20+5=24 d20=7 Monday October 31st, 2005 7:47:45 PM
"What the bloody--" Bohdi began as the white, frozen ball skimmed past his ear. Then, nodding in slow realization, a grin spreading across his face, the gnome scooped snow and formed a ball of his own.
"All right, then," the gnome chuckled, cocking and readying his aim. "No magic, then, Kjoukallur Frest--not that our magic could measure up to yours. But this is the Vein, remember--no child grows up here without knowing how to do this!"
With the final exclamation, Bohdi let his own snowball fly back at the avatar, sending the frozen missile toward its target (Attack--ranged touch, I presume?--23).
Squork cawed and flapped up into the air. Snowball fights were not the raven's idea of fun. Still, he tried what he could to help defend Bohdi from retaliation (Aid Another, if applicable, 24 = success).
The gnome laughed as he ducked, bobbed, and weaved to avoid being struck back. "So this is what we get if we choose life, eh? And what about sleep, eh? What then?"
Diplomacy/Gather Information, untrained: 7
DM sanity point: Bohdi's AC is 15 for touch attacks as well as regular attacks. If Squork's Aid applies, that raises to AC 17. Squork's own touch AC is 12.
Neco Monday October 31st, 2005 10:09:52 PM
The human feels the cold returning to the tips of her ears and with a quiet sigh she dons her fur lined hood once more.
Neco is rather confused as to what is transpiring between Bohdi and the Elf/Dwarf. Eberyon, The Elf Song and the Catacombs are all foreign thoughts to her. What are they she ponders, and more importantly what do they have to do with me? Neco's curiosity is further provoked when the Gnome and the Avatar commence throwing snow at each other.
The human grasps a handful of the soft white powder and begins to mold it into a fine glistening orb. Using the heat of her breath she melts the surface of her ball and than lets it cool to form a hard icy shell.
Dregar Monday October 31st, 2005 11:10:57 PM
Dregar looks on with a bit of shock at what could only be described as a snowball fight. He rolls to his side and gets up, picking his axe up as he does. He moves to a tree to give himself some cover, and watches the snowball fight.
" Blitherin' idiots" he whispers to himself. " We should just be wiping that gnomes face in the snow, not playin' his games." he continues, low enough only for him to hear.
Garrett Tuesday November 1st, 2005 8:26:50 AM
Garrett was doing fine until the snowball fight began, but obviously became irritated quite quick.
Garrett steps forward with his shield up to prevent being cocked by a stray snowball.
"Hold" Garrett yells. He then turns his attention to Kjoukallur Frest. "You wish us to cast a vote for life? Since your arrival in the Wold, there has been little but death and destruction. Mountains exploding, our village in ruins, and things that should not happen, happening. You seem to be the harbinger of chaos and destruction. Why should I cast a vote for life? Why should we?"
EdglerVess Tuesday November 1st, 2005 5:17:50 PM
"And so the fate of the Wold is being decided by a snowball fight," Edgler mumbles in disgust. He stands like a statue, unmoving, just watching the 'battle' from the flank.
Aiden Tuesday November 1st, 2005 6:31:55 PM
Aiden absolutely had no clue what was going on. Why was this snow packed and thrown? Was there a weapon hidden inside? (OOC: figure snowball fights are not exactly an occurrence in Twin Tusks)
"What the ?!?" as he took a step back, and readied his axe. He looked absolutely confused.
(OOC: remember, in the village of Ice Peaks, he also was fairly secluded with his master until recently...)
Ho Ha Ha Dogde Parry Spin Thrust d20+10=13 d20+10=27 Tuesday November 1st, 2005 11:30:17 PM
Bohdi's snowball streaks across and catches the little man square in the face. he spins upon impact and falls over, but is quickly up and still with a grin. "Ho ho little gnome I shall get you for that fine throw." Another streaks towards Bohdi, but again the throw is quite errant. Neco stoops quietly and begins work upon a masterpiece of spherical snow. the dwarves find nothing amusing about what transpires before them and Aiden is simply confused. His boyhood provided on such experiences.
Garret calls for a halt to the sillyness and wants Frest to answer why life, given the destruction his or rather Ebyron's waking has already wrought upon the Wold.
Keeping an eye on the accurate armed gnome the little man answers. "Oh those things were hardly the grim cast of what you think. Death? Destruction? Look around you, open your eyes and heart. The Wold rejoices. you say a mountain exploded, the very earth merely cried out in joy at our return." he stops now and stands with arms raised towards the sky.
"Do not the villagers pour from thier huts and make to the skies a cacophony upon the successful return of the hunters? Do the wolves now cry out in joy upon the return of the males? Since our arrival the veil has been lifted, the fog abated by the everlasting sun and life hs returned. Would you crush that life cleric, put it in a box, keep it locked away? Of course not! Domi would never advocate such things. Death, Life, Destruction, Change. All of these take courage to accept and face. But really what all of you need save possibly him," and a pointing finger indicates Bohdi, "is to live. you are young, even by your own views of life. Much too young to be so dour."
With that the air seems to condesn into his hand and a snowball forms and launches itself at Garret. In less time it takes to blink the cold wet creation explodes across his forehead. Eliciting a great smile and laugh from Fest. "HA!" then a mock serious expression comes to his face, " you should really duck when anything flies at your nose good sir cleric."
Anyone with Spellcraft DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {A conjurational spell very similar to acid splash but obviously non lethal in nature}
Dregar Tuesday November 1st, 2005 11:49:28 PM
" Hummph" the dwarf groans as he listens to the gnome creature. He takes his axe and slams it into the icy ground, making it catch hold. He reachs behind him and pulls out a flask of water kept under his cloak to stay liquidy.
" They want to throw snow." he says as he takes a swig. " We venture across a snow for a couple days, smash a wolves skull in, come across giants, and they want to play like some bleddin' kids."
He wipes the excess water away from his beard before it freezes and places the canteen under the cloak. He reaches down and pulls the axe out of the ground, awaiting for the right time to act. Thoughts of splitting this gnome creature in two.
Bohdi Nackle (AC 15, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) d20+12=22 d20+5=9 d20+5=25 Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 12:59:06 PM
(Spellcraft check, 12 total ranks, 22.) Bohdi recognized the avatar's spell, but did not mention it.
"Garrett, help me control the others," Bohdi whispered to his companion through their arcane connection. "Keeping the avatar occupied this way may prevent bloodshed. There's no reason to risk our lives if he will submit without fighting."
Addressing his snowball adversary, Bohdi then said, "Kjoukallur Frest, my friends may be having a hard time sharing in your joy of life at the moment, because they have seen so much of death. It is hard, when you have been hurt by the telling, to appreciate the humor in the jest."
"But I think I understand what you mean. Death, and destruction, are as much a part of Nature as life. These things we witnessed were just natural parts of the Wold's reaction to your return. And so, should we choose 'live,' we might expect to see more of the same--the natural way of things having dominion over the Wold. And, of course, if we choose life you also promise us a boon. Our Sargrass friends have told me about this shop you mentioned, the Catacombs. I admit, it would greatly assist me in my magical development to be able to purchase spells right in our own village, without any further travel or preparation."
"But still, you have said nothing of the other choices. What if we choose 'sleep,' or 'die'? What then?"
Bohdi punctuated his question with another frozen sphere, which arced across the clearing but fell well short (ranged touch attack 9, miss unless the avatar has a DEX penalty). Squork continued to try to protect the gnome (Aid Another nat 20!, net 25, success).
DM sanity point: Bohdi's AC is 15 for touch attacks as well as regular attacks. If Squork's Aid applies, that raises to AC 17. Squork's own touch AC is 12.
Aiden Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 8:43:24 PM
Aiden started to step away from all of this. Warriors who were clueless often died in battle. Right now, he didn't know what was going on, and considering how 'cold' things have been, the idea of throwing snow seemed, well, wierd.
If he could, Aiden would move to stand by the dwarf who appeared to be of the same mind, at least from his facial expressions.
Garrett Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 9:08:26 PM
Garrett turns to the rest of the group. "Hold Wunjo's. Let Bohdi finish what he has begun. there is wisdom in his actions, give things a chance to develop. We are together in what we have gone through, let him continue."
Garrett looks from edgler to Aiden to Dregar "Have faith my friends. hold your positions, and your tempers, and have faith."
Garrett thinks back to Bohdi using the spell."I am no longer sure that we need him to submit. I get the feeling that we already control his fate just by using the acorns to decide. But eitehr way, keep him talking. the more we learn, the more it may help us.
And for some reason, I think he may be partially right. My intent was to crush the life from him at first chance, but what he says makes some sense. Why should we believe one divine being over another? how should we choose? The Fey king is as much a part of the Wold as any other creature. Does he mean death or harm to us or any others...I don't know. Keep him talking...I need to hear more and think more."
EdglerVess Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 9:25:57 PM
The dwarven priest of Gargul nods at Aiden as the big man walked over. "Aiden..." Edgler paused and looked like he had something to say, but he just paused once again. Finally he puts something coherent together, "I wish I had something wise and philosophical to say which would give us some enlightenment in this situation...but I can't think of a single thing except... this is ridiculous..."
Neco Wednesday November 2nd, 2005 10:08:07 PM
Neco sits quietly in hiding. The rogue finds no trouble in doing so, especially with Bhodi and Garrett distracting the strange man with questions and flying snow.
The white ball of snow in her hands quickly takes shape. Her heating and cooling of the snow starts to give it a hard icy composition.
Bohdi vs the Avatar d20+10=30 d20+10=12 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 7:21:28 AM
Bohdi shot falls short this time and Frest gives a triumphant "Ha!" The small man has another snow ball in no time and this one streaks towards Edgler. The ball of ice and snow impacts directly between the Gargul clerics eyes. "Such a solenm little man. What has the dwarven race forgot how to have fun? Are you now too consumed with hatred and blood lust?"
Bohdi asks of the other choices, but Frest pointedly ignores them. While he seems pretty happy to sling snow balls with the gnome it is also apparent he has no intentions of letting the others just sit around.
Bohdi Nackle (AC 15, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) d20+5=18 d20+5=13 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 9:26:21 AM
Bohdi gasped as the avatar's snowball unerringly found its mark with the stoic dwarven priest of Gargul, then he laughed. "Come on, Edgler! He can't keep this up if we all get him at once! Aiden, Garrett, Dregar, Nauth--you too! Everyone fan out and let's pelt this bugger!"
Bohdi formed another snowball and delayed his shot to time it with the others. When he did aim and fire, his shot was fairly straight and true (ranged touch attack 18). In the meantime, Bohdi silently commanded his Unseen Servant. The magical force began gathering snow behind a tree off to one side, preparing to hoist a massive snowball into the boughs and limbs above the avatar's head.
Again Squork tried to defend his master. (Aid Another 13, success).
DM sanity point: Bohdi's AC is 15 for touch attacks as well as regular attacks. If Squork's Aid applies, that raises to AC 17. Squork's own touch AC is 12.
Dregar d20=18 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 12:32:15 PM
Dregar's eyes narrowed and his hands whitend on his axe when he saw Edgler get hit. It didn't bother him when Bhodi got hit because he was having fun with this. But Edgler was staying out of it.
" Lets pelt this bugger" Bhodi said, and a though of his aze pelting the avatar in the face made him chuckle a bit.
" Fine, if you want to play now, I'll play" and with that Dregar dropped to the ground and started scooping up some snow into a round ball. He pulled his arm back and through with his might. ( 18+3=21)
Garrett d20+4=18 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 3:19:24 PM
Garrett thinks to Bohdi "I hope you know what you are doing Wunjo. But I'll play the game."
Garrett picks up a snowball and guns it at the avatar.
Hit Ac: 18
"Right back at you nature boy" Garrett says as he sees the snowball strike true.
Edgler Vess Thursday November 3rd, 2005 7:19:15 PM
Despite the snowball's impact, the priest remains unfazed. He doesn't even move, he just lets the snow melt off his face. He doesn't seem angry, nor does he acknowledge Bohdi's request, he just stares intently at the avatar. The only thing that might give away his emotions is the fact that the snow seems to be melting a little faster than normal....
Neco d20+8=27 d20+8=18 Thursday November 3rd, 2005 10:36:13 PM
Neco looks at the merry game taking place and by no means wishes to miss out on the fun. "Bohdi it's no fun hiding when there is no reason to, I'm coming to help."She communicates to the gnome in whisper (Message). The human rogue stealthily approaches the avatar (Move silently 27 Hide 18) from behind with her solid ball of ice clutched in one hand.
Neco pulls a sneak attack on the Elf-Dwarf. Pulling on the neck of Frest's garments she slides the ice down his tunic. "Long and cold" the human says, quite sure that what she had done will impede the Avatar's snow throwing for some time.
Aiden Friday November 4th, 2005 12:21:01 AM
Approaching Edgler, "Nothing to say..." in response to the priest's words. Even when Garrett approached, Aiden nodded in recognition of Garrett's advice. He hadn't planned to intercede.
But he also realized that priest's should have some level of reverence. One thought came to mind, and that was to load all three acorns into one snowball and throw it at the fey king and let chance figure out the results.
Not the wisest of choices....
And then Aiden took a moment to look at the Fey king's positioning....
(OOC: is he in a clearing, or under a tree...if so, is the tree covered with snow? I do have a plan, but I'm trying to see what it is like around him (Frest) before finishing Aiden's actions.)
<tags>
Justin Webber (DM) Avatar Meeting d20+10=30 Saturday November 5th, 2005 5:46:07 PM
(OOC:Well everyone I'm back to DM for awhile and so everyone please bare with me. sorry for the lack of posting yesterday and please consider this as a Friday post. Aiden, it's my understanding that the avatar is under the tree or really close to it either way.)
Frest takes the pelting of the snowballs thrown at him and Neco even is able to sneakup on Frest and slip snow down his tunic. All of this, including the snow down the tunic seems to effect Frest little as he is having way to much fun and quickly turns after the snow is put down his shirt and does a quick thrust of a snowball at Neco's face, not hard enough to hurt or anything, purely out of fun. (touch attack:30)
After the snowball he just thrust at Neco he speaks up, "Come on now. You all can do better then that can't you?"
It's clear that Frest is wasting time mainly till the choice of each person is made.
(OOC:Just curious, did DanielK post Frest's little deal on your voting?)
Neco d20+4=19 Saturday November 5th, 2005 8:05:48 PM
Neco stumbles blindly backwards with her hands over her face (5 feet). The rogue shakes the snow from her face and hair. "Perhaps this is not as fun as I had thought," the human mutters. She quickly fills her hand with snow and begins to pelt Frest with the cold white stuff (Ranged touch attack 19).
Dregar d20=4 Sunday November 6th, 2005 12:12:21 AM
Dregar watches as the snow pelts the avatar. He reaches down and scoops some more up, takes aim, and heaves. ( 4+3=7) And watches it sail out of the way.
" Bah, throwin' snow isn't for the dwarves." he bellows.
Bohdi Nackle (AC 15, HP 20/20) and Squork (AC 16, HP 10/10) d20=6 d20=14 d20+5=11 d20+5=23 Sunday November 6th, 2005 8:45:58 PM
Bohdi pouted momentarily. "This is no fun, Frest. We've played your game, you know that we have a choice to make, but you have told us only about one choice! Is it because you think that by offering us the Catacombs, life is the only choice that we would make? Or, are you afraid of what the other choices--sleep, or die--might mean?"
"Is that it? Are you--afraid?" He punctuated his question with yet another snowball. (Ranged touch attack, 11; Gather Information, untrained, 14.) And he directed his Unseen Servant to dump its 20-pound load of snow on Frest's head.
Uncharacteristically, Squork addressed the avatar as well. "Aye," the corvid cawed. "You are afraid of us, aren't you!" (Aid Another on Gather Information, 6, fails.) The bird's words didn't seem to do much good. (Aid Another, AC +2, 23, success) But at least the bird continued to try to aid Bohdi's snowball defense.
To his companions Neco and Garrett, with whom he still shared a magical Message link, Bohdi whispered, "I'm not sure that this fellow has any more to offer us. Help me, if you can; if he won't tell us more about the other two choices, then we'll just have to make our choices ourselves and be done with."
DM sanity point: Bohdi's AC is 15 for touch attacks as well as regular attacks. If Squork's Aid applies, that raises to AC 17. Squork's own touch AC is 12.
Aiden Monday November 7th, 2005 9:02:50 AM
Aiden looked at the dwarves, and then eyed the positioning of the tree (which most likely had quite a bit of snow on the branches). Muttering towards the others, "throwing snow seems ...different...Are we trying to cover or encase him?"
Hopefully, their gazes will also catch the tree and whatever powdery remnants are on the branches (which a powerful strike may be able to shake downwards onto Frest).
Garrett Monday November 7th, 2005 11:27:59 AM
Thinking to Bohdi. "I have had enough of this. I am ready to choose."
Garrett briefly thinks that he really doesn't know enough about this being to determine whether he should live or die. But terrible things have happened since his arrival, and more may yet. There is only one choice left to make.
Garrett fishes in his pocket for the acorns and pulls them out. He makes sure he selects the right one and then puts the other two back in his pocket.
"I choose sleep" Garrett says to himself as he lets the acorn denoting sleep fall to the ground.
Garrett turns to the others in the group not connected by Bohdi's spell. "I have chosen. I think it is time we all made our choice."
Neco Monday November 7th, 2005 8:59:52 PM
Neco tilts her head to one side and the remnants of Frest's face-wash slide off leaving her cheeks bright red. Holding the acorn incribed with the rune for LIVE in her hand, she enquires, "what is this place called the Catacombs, anyway?"
Justin Webber (DM) Frest's choice Monday November 7th, 2005 10:41:37 PM
Frest sighs as he sees his game coming to a end, maybe it's because he doesn't get a chance to play very often. A curious grin comes over his face for a brief moment as the unseen servant shoves the snow over him.
For many moments you hear gasping and acking before a call, "OHHH NO!!!! I'M MELTING...I'M MELTING." The snow covering Frest slowly melts and vanishes, but when it's gone there is no Frest.
Appearing on a limb in the tree he chuckles and slaps a knee though, "Fooled ya." Frest sighs and stretches, "Well since you just need answers here we go. First, the Catacombs is a magical place where you can buy, trade and sell items. Anything you would ever dream of can be found there. Something none of you have ever seen before and will be awaiting sometime if you decide sleep or die."
Frest begins juggling snowballs and looks to everyone, "Pick sleep and no Catacombs for one and also nature and cities and such will prosper slowly, some magic will decline, areas of the wild will also see some decline. Pick die and cities will prosper and grow at terrible rates. Wild places will begin to die and fade. You'll see forests decline, winters may become even harsher or maybe decline completely. To put it in simple terms for all of you, this land here could become so frozen that life becomes almost impossible or it could become a raging inferno of a desert. A climate shift that you would not expect. If neither happens the cities will grow more rapid, this land could become a paved civilatation from corner to corner, no wilds for hunting, food and water at shortage since as more people come the less natural foods and waters will be found. However your choice."
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday November 8th, 2005 8:46:09 AM
"Hmph!" Bohdi snorted. He said nothing more to Frest, but the hands planted on his hips and his pursed lips spoke volumes of what he thought of Frest's speech. He signaled the others to gather together. To those who did, he whispered his thoughts.
"He's lying," the gnome told his friends in a low voice. "Either that, or his understanding of the truth is hopelessly distorted. Either way, we can't trust what he says. How could some choices present only positives, while others have only negatives? If that were true, why would Maab have left the choice to us mortals? And if it were so easy to decide, then why would Frest try to bribe us by offering us access the Catacombs? Why is that reward only offered for one choice--why would our own self-interest dictate a choice so important to everyone in the Wold?"
Bohdi scowled with disgust. "Typically, some greater power in the Wold has contacted us by vision and sent us on a bloody mission, but given us bugger all precious little information on how to accomplish it. I think we each just have to choose as our conscience would dictate, but I'll be buggered if I know how to make the choice."
Clearing his throat, the gnome stepped away from the huddle of friends and addressed the avatar once more. "Frest, I don't know you. Now, I know what you'll say--you're the embodiment of Nature, the personification of the Natural Wold around us. We should know you as well as we know the land beneath our feet, or the trees that sway above our heads. And that may be true."
"But I don't know those things. I'm an arcanist. My world is in libraries of lore and alchemy labs. All my life, I've done everything I could to shut out the natural Wold. And why not? I mean, look around--it's not like Nature is a very pretty picture in this part of the Wold. So I have no special love for Nature. I cast spells every day to keep Nature away from me, I hide from anything natural because, to a near certainty, it's almost always going to try to kill me. I like to keep Nature at a distance."
"You say that if we choose 'live,' we get access to the Catacombs. Fair enough. But at what price? That Nature is allowed to run wild? That what we've seen these past few weeks--mountains exploding, villages destroyed, the Wold in upheaval--that continues unabated, or even escalates? How is that a rational choice? When the Wold comes crashing down, where will hide--in the Catacombs' bleedin' waiting area?"
"You tell us that if we choose 'die,' this area around us will no longer be as it is. Is that so bad? It's a blasted wilderness. Nothing but snow and ice for miles. Oh, yes, I forgot--and packs of deadly wolves, and bloody iss wurms, and snow giants. Really, quite the vacation spot. Where I'm from in Zarnan City, we turned our backs on all of that ages ago, and built ice walls to keep it all out, and you know what? We haven't bloody well missed it since. Your death may benefit this part of the Wold, Frest, and no mistake--and it may be no more than what you deserve for all of the death and destruction that you've caused."
"And then there's 'sleep.' Which is what, exactly? Go back to the way things were? Isn't that where we started in the first place--with you asleep, and waiting to spring out, pun intended, upon the Wold? That might well settle things for us for a time, but what of future generations? Will they have to go through the same upheaval, the same death and destruction, that you caused this time around? Choosing 'sleep' seems little better than sweeping the problem back under the rug. How is that fair to those generations to come?"
Bohdi shook his head and stroked his goatee. He snapped his fingers and, in a moment, an invisible force whisked his three acorns out of his belt pouch and held them in mid-air in front of him. He gazed at the three engraved oak seeds.
"Bloody well awful to sit in judgment of another being. We didn't ask for this. It hardly seems fair to anyone, including you, Frest. But we've been given this responsibility, and I mean to follow through and be done with it."
"Frest, I've considered what you have to say and what I know of your doings. You are mischevious, destructive, wanton, and amoral. That may be the way of Nature, but that is not the way that sentient beings should be permitted to behave, and I see nothing in your character or your allocution that gives me reason to believe that you would change. Nor have you expressed any remorse for what has happened as a result of your awakening, or any desire, intention, or willingness to make amends for the harm that you have caused."
"You may not intend to harm the Wold, in the same way that a virus does not intend to kill its host. But that does not entitle the virus to live, nor does it entitle you to live, either. I will not permit you, through my actions, to threaten harm to this or any future generation."
"I'm sorry, Frest. I choose 'die.'"
The acorn whisked forward as the other two descended to the ground.
Garrett Tuesday November 8th, 2005 9:18:58 AM
Garrett ponders the wisdom of his decision, but still believes he made the right choice.
"We must all choose my friends. All the Wold will have to abide by our decision, and the decisions of the other groups finding the other Avatars. I have already made my choice, and pray that it was the right choice for both the vein and the Wold."
Aiden Tuesday November 8th, 2005 10:46:37 AM
A small smirk appeared on Aiden's face as he was tempted to throw all three at the chaotic creature.
Inside, he understood that the balance needed to be kept. He loved the wilderness, but also recognized that towns and cities also had their place.
Listening to Bohdi's response, Aiden then spoke. "The Ice and wolves have their own beauty Bodhi. As you have found distaste with the wyld, I may find with these cities."
"You speak in riddles Frest, with sleep you say that nature will grow but wild will shrink? How can this occur?"
Dregar Tuesday November 8th, 2005 11:31:09 AM
Dregar sits back and watches in amazement at what is going on. He didn't understand most of it.
Did everyone have to choose he thougth to himself.
Was he supposed to choose.
It just didn't make sense to him, so he dropped his hand to his axe, incase Frest did not like what was picked by the group.
Justin Webber (DM) More info Tuesday November 8th, 2005 6:47:27 PM
EdglerVess: sorry for not repling to your sense motive before. Your sense motive would show the Frest is deffinetly trying to persuade the group to choose live but he isn't really lieing on some things either.
(OOC:Please do not consider this a post, just a help for things I realized I missed. I have personally decided to allow players to change their votes just once if you so decide but we'll see from here.)
Neco Tuesday November 8th, 2005 9:52:04 PM
Neco looks at the three acorns resting in her open hand Live, Sleep, Die. The young human looks at the rest of the party and contemplates her choices.
I am not one to want to make enemies of what could be new friends, she thinks to herself. I am however an opportunist and I for one feel that this vote offers an opportunity that can not be taken without due consideration therefore I will vote in favour of Life.
EdglerVess Tuesday November 8th, 2005 10:31:37 PM
With water still dripping from his braided red beard, Edgler joins the huddle and listens intently to everyone's input. "None of us," the dwarf begins, "are wise enough to involve ourselves with the dealings of gods. It is not possible that we, as mere mortals can decide the fate of a god. If we are to make judgement on this being in front of us, then, he is no god. "However, whatever power this creature has, he is responsible for the destruction of many lives. Therefore, if I must stand in judgement of this creature then I choose Death."
Justin Webber (DM) Frest and choices Wednesday November 9th, 2005 8:54:34 PM
Frest looks to the group as he hears some of the votes being cast and slowly sighs, "Maybe I should explain better. Sleep means that each will expand slowly but the cities will expand better and slightly faster then the forests and such which means that later food and such will become harder to find and such. death means the destruction of the forests and the wilds. Cities will prosper much faster then the forests and the forests will be harder pressed to fight back, to regrow and such."
(OOC:Sorry for the lack of post yesterday everyone.)
Aiden Thursday November 10th, 2005 7:58:08 AM
Aiden didn't trust Frest.
But the balance should be kept, and if nothing else, perhaps this 'sleep' acorn could deny Frest entry until those stronger and wiser than he could address it.
"Sleep..." he said firmly. "The balance of man and wyld must be kept...." as he threw the acorn.
Garrett Thursday November 10th, 2005 8:54:21 AM
Garrett continues to listen to Frest, Trying to decide once again if what he had already chosen was the best choice.
"Let me ask you bluntly Frest, for I am a straightforward type of guy. You have much power at your disposal. What will you do should we choose live? What events or happenings would decrease the growth of the cities? Would you start wiping them out and all the people living in them? by what means will the cities shrink and nature flourish? I have no love of the stories of great cities with people packed everywhere with no room to move or breathe or think. I need to know more. Why would this area become even worse should we choose die? How would our lives be easier should we choose live? There are many questions that need to be answered. Will forests spring up throughout the vein should you live offering protection and shelter?"
"You say that the Wold rejoiced at Eberyons awakening, and maybe it did, for I have no knowledge of the affairs of gods and their power within the wold. But I do know that you have offered no display of concern or sadness at the deaths of many people throughout the Wold. If you living will expand nature, I have no problem with that. But you say you living will also decrease the cities. It would therefore stand to reason that you are opposed to these cities.....and all the people in them. I wonder Frest, do you see people as a plague, advancing across the wold and destroying everything in their paths to create more cities. Or do you see them as part of nature, as much a part as a tree or the wolf, or a raindrop falling from the sky?
Garrett started rambling at the end, as thoughts flooded his mind.
Garrett picks up the acorn that he dropped, no longer sure that the choice he made was the choice he wanted, but the choice that was safest. Was he deciding for the wold, or deciding for himself? What would Domi think? Sleep was not a choice of courage, but a choice of safety, a choice to return to the status quo. He thinks to himself "If I can, I no longer choose sleep. I am unsure"
Bohdi Nackle Thursday November 10th, 2005 10:15:27 AM
Bohdi watched his friends struggling with their choices and--for a moment--the gnome's characteristically cynical exterior softened.
"Our uncertainty is part of our mortality," he said quietly. "But it is also our nobility, the thing that makes us creatures of free will. I think that perhaps Maab gave us this decision to make precisely because we have these uncertainties--that is what makes our conscience so valuable."
Bohdi gently laid a gloved hand on Garrett's arm. "Never mind what others have chosen. This choice is your own. Trust in your conscience, Garrett, and your choice will be the right one."
Then, just as quickly as his moment of compassion had appeared, Bohdi's expression twisted back into one of typical exasperation. His hand brushed away from Garrett's arm and waved in the air. "And let's be bloody well quick about it! The sooner that we decide the fate of the Wold ... the sooner we can leave."
Dregar Thursday November 10th, 2005 10:20:59 AM
" I know not if you want my choice, but I shall still give it. I choose sleep. There is no way I could sit back and watch the forests destroyed, while the cities grow." Dregar said as he pulls the axe up off the ground. In his mind he still wouldn't mind slicing the annoying creature in two.
Neco Thursday November 10th, 2005 5:27:33 PM
Having made her decision, Neco removes her worn brown pack. She sits in the snow beside it and gives it a quick poke. The bag reacts with a series of bulging motions.
Weezel, Neco's fury white weasel companion steps gingerly from the warmth of the backpack to the snow. The wintry mammal stiffly arches its back and gives a dry yawn baring all of its minute sharp teeth.
Putting her hand into the bag Neco retrieves a wrapped bundle and opens it. The young woman gives the contents a sniff before proceeding to eat it. The occasional chunk is held out to Weezel who gladly gobbles it up.
Trail rations consumed 1/7
EdglerVess Thursday November 10th, 2005 9:37:00 PM
His decision made, the priest nods at each of the others then goes back to where he was originally standing. He pulls his masterwork dwarven waraxe off his back and stands ready for a confrontation.
Justin Webber (DM) Frest Friday November 11th, 2005 1:36:22 AM
Frest shakes his head, "Hmm, more questions. The fey king does not hate the cities or the people here. He has been sleeping for many many years before being suddenly wokeup. The things that has happened are from the sudden releasing of his powers. Powers that is put to sleep again could be released one day again to cause farther harm. The forests will grow and nature will stay, it will fight back when the people try advancing their cities but less then it has in the past. when you expnd, animals and even nature itself tries to slow or stop you. Either way I have made the offer and it was and is up to you to decide. I however will not fight any of you as this is your decision and your decisions even if killed will be my fate. You all throughout the whole Wold are charged with my fate. It is not just you who choose."
Garrett Friday November 11th, 2005 3:33:48 PM
Garrett ponders his decision for a few more moments. Realizing that Frest is right, there are many more people out there who will be deciding his fate. Garrett thinks to himself "I for one will not choose death for this being, knowing as little as I do about him and what is going on. Sleep only sets things in motion for this to happen again in the future. Therefore, I choose life. If he truly is going to visit destruction upon the Wold, then there are others who will probably know of it first hand. But since I will not choose death, nor leave this to future people to deal with, I choose life."
Garrett quietly takes the life acorn from his pocket and tosses it in the direction of Frest. "Don't make me regret my choice Frest."
Garrett then looks around at his companions to gauge their reactions. He has a good idea that Bohdi will not be happy with the choice of life, as the city is where he was from. But Garrett feels strongly that he made the only decision he could with what he knows at this time.
Bohdi Nackle Friday November 11th, 2005 3:38:58 PM
"And have we all made our choices now, hmmmm? Maybe we -- can -- leave -- now?"
The gnome beat his sides with his arms. If the others didn't already know that he was magically protected from the cold, they might think that he was miserable.
EdglerVess Friday November 11th, 2005 9:08:29 PM
Edgler stands like a statue awaiting the final consensus. His face betrays no emotion concerning his comrades various votes. He knows each choice is unique and correct for that person.
Aiden Sunday November 13th, 2005 11:12:27 AM
Aiden nodded, and began to make his way back to the trail that he had created for the others. It was clear that the choices had been made, each being giving what they thought was correct. It was now to the fates, or gods...either of which seemed quite fickle at the moment.
Dregar Sunday November 13th, 2005 5:09:32 PM
Dregar stood, with his hand gripped tightly on the axe. His knuckles were a shade of white from how tight he was holding it. IT seemed everyone made their choices, but the coutcome still was undecided. He could only hope they would fight, so he could cut the avatar in half.
Justin Webber (DM) Question Sunday November 13th, 2005 6:20:12 PM
OOC:This isn't a DM post but would like to ask each person a small favor. Would each of you be willing to send me a email telling me your character's decision so I can tally and decide what to do from here for sure. Also might have to consult with DanielK if i can reach him. Thanks.
Dregar Monday November 14th, 2005 12:55:34 PM
OOC: I am sorry, but I don't think I have your email. And I cannot find it on the site.
Bohdi (illegal second) Monday November 14th, 2005 4:01:45 PM
Bohdi tapped Aiden on the elbow. "You've got the right idea, wunjo," the gnome said softly. "We should get out of here. Now that this judging thing is over, we ought to be getting back to the village to see what we can do to help out in the rebuilding process. Besides, I think that all of this has gotten to some of us--" Bohdi jerked a thumb across his chest, in the direction of Nauthiz'Ull-- "More than others. I think Nauthiz'Ull, and the rest of us, could all use some down time back at the village."
"So you lead the way, Aiden, and I'm sure the rest of us will follow. Let's go."
Bohdi renewed his Unseen Servant spell and bid the unnaturally "natural" grove a not-so-fond, subvocal adieu.
Justin Webber (DM) Frest Ends Monday November 14th, 2005 11:12:25 PM
(OOC:Sorry for the delay, consulting with DanielK and now here we go again everyone.)
Frest sighs and shakes his head before standing and dusting himself off abit and looks to each person, skipping to you after a moment, "Fine fine, voting is done and on your way you should be. However Frest has gifts yet to bare."
Frest stops by the group and looks at each one, "In your home you will find a magic gate. This gate will take you to the catacombs. I and the fey king offer this too you all in good faith. This is no lie and doubt not what I say, look in magic portal and you shall see this isn't a lie. This is to show you each how well or dumb your choices be."
Frest looks to Neko and Garret, cupping both his hands together and then opening them to show a pair of crystalized snow flakes, "To both of you I Frest offer a humble gift, this is for having wisdom beyond your years, for seeing past yourselves and to the future of the Wold and the place you call home. These will never melt and like both of you and all snow flakes they are unique and not another like it in the Wold. Do not try to sell it however or the enchantment on them will make them melt for they are for you and you only."
Frest now looks to Aidan and Dregar with the most serious look you ever seen on Frest's face, "For you I part simple words. You chose the safe route, neither life or death. Remember that the safe route is not always best. Nothing ventured nothing gained. You weighted and chose with your hearts and that too is noble. The Fey King can not hold it against you and neither can I." Frest now cups his hands and holds out a single heart shaped snow piece to both of you, "Take this as a symbol of your choices, remember also my words for Frest may serve the Fey King but he is not evil but good. I'm a playful spirit that most people out of Ice Vein know as Jack Frost."
Frest now turns to Bohdi and Edgler, "You are the hardest of the group here really. Your choices if combined with to many more could curse the wilds to a very nasty fate. Your votes seem like a quick short term end to whats going on, a choice that benefits only you and select others who agree with your thinking. However I believe you too chose with your hearts, for whatever reason that maybe." Frest stares at both and nods, deciding and cups his hand and slowly parts them to show two small ice crystals that show a person's face but with eyes shut tight, "Take these as my gift to you."
Frest stares at each person once more before turning, rather you excepted the gift from him or not, "I would send you all to where your going but that is beyond my powers if you won't believe in me either. I Frest, will always be around so when you see kids playing in the snow, the icy chill nipping at your nose, think of me."
Dregar Tuesday November 15th, 2005 3:19:51 AM
Dregar looked to Frest for a few seconds, finally letting up on the axe. He realized then that there would be no fight, and for some reason that was good to him. After a few seconds he makes his way near where Frest was to look at the heart shaped snow.
" Why are we going to these catacombs you speak of, why there do we see our choice being good or being folly. I am just a young dwarf from the lands that freeze, and I am making decisions that the gods themselves seem like they should be making. Why us, and why now?"
Garrett Tuesday November 15th, 2005 9:23:49 AM
Garrett accepts the snowflake from Frest, and thanks him. Garrett is even more sure he made the right decision now. There has been no malice, evil, or harmful intent from this being. Offering up gifts to those who choose for you to die? that is almost too gracious for Garrett to even fully realize.
"I believe in you Frest", Garrett says. "And I am ready to go home. I would be more than happy to be sent, but only if all of us can go. I would rather walk with my friends than leave them to face danger without me."
Garrett then looks at the ring in his hand. The one that led them here. "I believe this is yours" and Garrett holds the ring out to Frest.
Ga
EdglerVess Tuesday November 15th, 2005 11:17:42 AM
"I thank you for your gift, Frest." Edgler says with a slight nod. "I truly hope that you will do the right thing concerning the people of these lands. They have been greatly hurt by your presence... you owe them."
OOC:Can someone give me the 'rules' on how the Catacombs works?
Bohdi Nackle d20+11=25 d20+2=5 Tuesday November 15th, 2005 2:58:42 PM
Bohdi scowled at the frosty avatar. "Bleedin' gods and their bleedin' games," he muttered. He reached for the proferred gift, but then hesitated and stepped back. "Presto ensorcelsior illuminaris," he chanted, as the now-familiar orange spectacle-shaped rune appeared before his eyes. (Cast: Detect Magic)
"No offense," the gnome explained to Frest as he examined his and the other gifts for signs of enchantment. (Spellcraft check, as appropriate, 25--27 v. illusions.) "But as one of the elders in the merchant clan back in Zarnan City used to say, 'trust, but verify.'"
If, upon examination, the gifts still seemed to be the harmless tokens that they appeared, Bohdi would accept the gift graciously and incline his head toward the trail home. "Let's go," he urged. "I'd want to be well clear of here before nightfall."
As the group marched, Bohdi would again direct his Unseen Servant and use his powers of Prestidigitation to erase the signs of their passage. He would offer to take a watch, as usual, and would use his second Prestidigitation spell of the day as well as the Unseen Servant to help build windbreaks and shield walls, with crenellation and arrow slits, from the available snowpack.
Neco Tuesday November 15th, 2005 6:12:26 PM
Reaching out a pale hand, Neco accepts the gift. Handling it gently she examines it from all angles to learn its distinctive shape before putting it away inside her worn pack.
The small human will fall into place in line with the others as they make their way back to the village. She is anxious to explore this portal to the Catacombs.
Justin Webber (DM) Frest's last words an on your way Wednesday November 16th, 2005 8:39:30 PM
Frest chuckles and smiles, "The catacombs has nothing to do with your future really. It is a place you may find of interest though, a place to buy magic items and such."
Frest thinks and takes a very deep breath and cups a hand open palmed under his mouth and breaths out hard. From just abit ahead of him and stretching into the distance now forms what looks like a slide, the slide made of ice and a small step area forms near Frest made of snow.
Frest grins and motions towards the slide, juggling snowballs again, "You already know I'm a fun loving one so you may take this to your home. It will get you there faster trust me and it is safe. Anyway, some of you still seem fun deficient and some of you seem to enjoy fun even more."
Frest looks to Bohdi also and nods to him, "It is fine. You'll find they radiate only the magic to keep them from ever melting."
Bohdi true to Frest words finds that the snowflakes and other gifts radiate a hint of magic but only one to keep the items from melting.
EdglerVess Wednesday November 16th, 2005 9:06:51 PM
"I don't understand why everything has to be 'fun' with you, Frest. Survival is serious business in these lands." The priest of Gargul trudges over to the slide and places his feet on the step in front of Frest. Over his shoulder he makes one last comment, "Remember that I'm still expecting you to make things right. "Now... how does this thing work?"
Aiden Wednesday November 16th, 2005 11:52:37 PM
Aiden nodded silently at Frest as the gift was given. He had chosen what he thought was right, and indeed, he also had looked towards a safer route for the future.
However, fun for this being was quite different than what others would construe as being enjoyable.
For Aiden, there is no 'fun' as Frest may have seen it. True, he has his enjoyment of the wyld, and challenge of survival, but much of what had occurred this day was difficult to comprehend.
However, he was very curious about one thing.
"Frest...what pathway may lead us towards the lands of the sun where those of the Pack Blood work?" Eyeing Bohdi, "Some of us may wish to make our ways there, whether through your magic, or less enchanted trails..."
Bohdi Nackle Thursday November 17th, 2005 10:09:41 AM
The corners of Bohdi's eyes softened. "Thanks, Aiden," he said softly. "But something tells me that I won't find my way to where my heart leads through any device of this ... being."
Bohdi stepped forward and mounted the slide. "Come on, let's go. There's a village waiting for our help, and it's not going to get any bloody warmer out here."
Garrett Thursday November 17th, 2005 10:55:24 AM
Garrett climbs on the slide, sits on his shield, and takes a ride.
Neco d20+8=23 Thursday November 17th, 2005 6:36:34 PM
Following the shield riding cleric the young rogue swings her pack onto her shoulders and leaps into the slide. She puts her arms out for stability and takes a stance, feet shoulder width apart. Neco attempts to slide down the icy slope on her feet (Balance 23).
Dregar d20=18 Thursday November 17th, 2005 9:53:20 PM
" Bah, More games" grumbled the dwarven Barbarian as he made his way to the slide. He looked back at where Frest was, one last time and turned towards the slide, sat on his plump bottom and headed down.
OOC: Gave you a reflex save incase,
Aiden Thursday November 17th, 2005 11:49:36 PM
Aiden awaited Frest's answer. If none, waited for the others to get on the 'slide' before he took the rear guard (and go down the slide).
Justin Webber (DM) Goodbye Frest, hello sliding Thursday November 17th, 2005 11:56:21 PM
Frest shakes his head at the comments about the Blood pack and where they come from, "I only know places where there is really a winter at and specially snow. Did the place they came from really sound like a place that seen much snow?" Frest shaks his head and looks to Bohdi more then the rest, "I'm sorry Frest can't be of more help but I'm sure true love will prevail, I love games and such and I'm fine still. Yonder dwarf didn't split me in two or try and none of you tried killing me over my fun. Now you all should go, I wish you the best and even knows some of you may not think me this I say goodbye friends and good luck in your journey."
Everyone finally heads to the slide and climbs up the small ladder and slides down the slide. Contrary to what would be possible you hit tremendous speeds coming down the short slide and quickly all around you the Wold becomes a blur, juggling snowballs even seem to swirl around the slide here and there but never hitting you. You can barely see the person infront of you as you slide at the speed you are, anything touching the slide doesn't feel hot or cold either but you feel the cold air blasting your face and body. The air isn't freezing cold but still cold enough to sting alittle.
After sliding down the slide for what seems like to long and with the Wold around you at a fast blurr you suddenly thump off the slide and into a deep snow bank. The now is soft and doesn't hurt and the slide even seems to adjust so the next person slams into the soft snow beside you. Each impact leaving you unharmed but leaving behind a imprint of you in the snow.
In the distance alittle walk from where you are you see where you all are traveling too also. To his word Frest has sent you very close to your destination.
EdglerVess d20+2=11 Friday November 18th, 2005 9:44:10 AM
The priest of Gargul tries briefly to keep his feet on the slide but quickly falls on his face. He works hard to suppress a girlish scream as he scoots at high speed, face forward down the slide. At the last moment he manages to bring his arms up in front of him as he exits the slide flying through the air and enters a snow drift... head first. After a moment of stunned silence a very angry, snow-covered dwarf explodes from the snow. "BAH! How can anyone call such an experience 'FUN'!" He tries in vain to brush the snow out of his braided beard, before he starts patting his uncovered head. "Where's my helmet?" he bellows. He dives back into snow where he digs for several moments before standing up once again, with his horned, frost covered helmet in his hand. Kicking snow in frustration he begins marching towards the village, muttering several dwarven expeltives the whole way.
Bohdi Nackle Friday November 18th, 2005 1:05:33 PM
Bohdi watched the Wold blur around him with trepidation. "Waaaaaaauuuuuuggggghhhh!" he gurgled as they slid, pell-mell, through the increasingly unreal reality about them.
"Ooooof!" the gnome landed in the snowdrift unceremoniously dumped upon his rump, with his raven Squork flapping down to a more dignified arrival beside him. "Bloody hell," the gnome muttered as he stood and brushed the snow from his posterior.
He looked up and surveilled their surroundings. "Wonderful. Now perhaps the gods will leave us bloody well alone for a time and allow us to clean up their mess."
The gnome indicated the ruined village ahead of them. "Someone jolly well has to."
Without more, Bohdi began plodding his way toward the village.
Garrett Friday November 18th, 2005 4:46:05 PM
Garrett follows Bohdi heading toward the village.
Neco Friday November 18th, 2005 10:17:27 PM
"Whoa!" cries the girl as she slides off the end of the ride, whirling her arms like a windmill she runs forward with the momentum gained from the trip. Coming to a stop, she adjusts her coat, and pulls the big hood back up over her head as she returns to the group, a smile on her face. "Shall we see if we can locate the portal to this place called the Catacombs?" she asks, curiousity in her eyes.
Aiden Saturday November 19th, 2005 12:40:59 PM
~magic...~ Aiden growled within his own mind as he went down the slide ~and gods...~ but this soon disappeared as the slide's effect, not the one of magically travelling, but the movements and freedom, had a rather uncharacteristic effect on Aiden.
There was some feelings of exhileration, and, dare we say, enjoyment of the slide as Aiden also slid off rather ungracefully into the snow.
Quickly hiding the slight smile to his more neutral look, he moved over to help the dwarf with his helmet, and then to anyone else who also required aid.
"Catacombs, " he uttered to himself, "a place where the dead dwell...and this is where magic lies?" Again, it seemed to be one of Frest's riddles. He was curious, but the thought of facing the dead was not appealing.
"I wonder about the village..." he muttered to himself.
Dregar Sunday November 20th, 2005 1:08:46 AM
Dregar bounces around down the slide before shooting off into the snow. He lands in the snow on his bottom, and backwards. After a few seconds he pulls himself out of the snow.
" Friggen avatars and their dumb jokes" he says, with a huff of hot air coming from his nostrils. " I am surprised this didn't lead us to some death or horrible destination. Now where are these catacombs he spoke of?"
Justin Webber (DM) Village Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 7:51:46 PM
(OOC: Sorry everyone for not posting yesterday. We put my grandma officially in a home yesterday and it was pretty rough. Didn't sleep well last night either worrying about her.)
The group works it's way towards the village. As you approach you see the damage first that had been done and how many people were moving around helping with trying to get broken or knocked down tent houses back up and useable.
As you come closer one of the villager's runs out towards you. It is one of the younger ones, barely in his teens, "Your back, your back. We been waiting for you. Well some of us anyway."
Garrett Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 8:21:05 PM
(OOC: Sorry about your Grandmother. Not an easy thing to deal with. Hope everything goes as well as possible.)
"Aye, we are back. Give us a quick summary of how you have fared. First, are there sick or injured that need tending? Where are we needed?"
Garrett waits for a quick response, hoping to be able to help those in need.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 9:07:04 PM
"We're back," Bohdi agreed. "And we've brought company. Kayra may want to meet these newcomers -- Neco, Dregar, and Edgler Vess."
"Tell me--has there been anything unusual that has cropped up here? We were led to believe that a portal may have opened here to a place called the Catacombs."
Afterward, Bohdi made his way to his tent and began retrieving all the things he had stashed there.
Aiden Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 9:47:28 PM
Aiden quietly listened to the young teen's response, especially of the talk of a portal to the Catacombs. His eyes quietly viewed the damage, and the general condition of those he saw...it was going to be difficult, especially with the supplies probably having been cut into by the invaders.
But they would survive, afterall, it beats the alternative.
Dregar Tuesday November 22nd, 2005 11:30:48 PM
Dregar walks into the village, his axe slung on his back. When he gets near he reaches down and scoops some snow up in his hand. He turns his back to the group and crushes the snow amongst his fingers. Turning back to the group he smiles a bit.
" Just an old tradition. We made it back from a journey, I tell the land that I thank them."
He continues along with the group, finally getting into the village he drops his bag and looks around.
" Does anyone need help" the dwarf calls out, thinking it better to keep active then dwell on what they discussed with the avatar.
OOC: Sorry you had to make the decision. It is a rough one.
EdglerVess Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 10:13:16 AM
"Well met, young man," Edgler says to the villager. "Perhaps you could point us to who's in charge. I am a priest and I would like to help out in any way I can."
Neco d20+5=6 d20+3=12 Wednesday November 23rd, 2005 7:31:39 PM
Neco looks around (Spot 6) but there seems to be quite a lot going on in the village and she is easily distracted. When Bohdi enquires about the Catacombs she faces 'round, fixing the youth with her grey-blue eyes and echo's the gnome's question, "The Catacombs! Yes! Tell us!" (Gather Information 12)
Justin Webber (DM) Village Saturday November 26th, 2005 1:53:52 AM
(OOC:Sorry for not posting sooner everyone. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving also. We went to visit my grandma on Turkey day and was greeted mainly by begging to go home and such. *sighs*)
The kid looks to each person when they speak and shakes his head, "The older people are seeing to the tents right now and most of the injured have been moved to the larger lodge to be treated by the wisewoman of the village. Kayra is near this strange portal that opened and we can see some type of strange place on the other side. One of the older people went in and came back out saying he was told it was some place called the cat-a-combs...or catacombs...well something like that. Come with me."
With this said the kid goes running off into the village, skirting alot of the heavy work and activities to head to where Kayra stands and next to her is a shimmering blue portal which can be seen some type of shop on the other side.
Bohdi Nackle Sunday November 27th, 2005 1:08:09 AM
"Right, that's the place," Bohdi affirmed. He strode purposefully toward Kayra with a palanquin loaded with booty.
"Don't worry, Kayra old girl, my sources tell me this place is perfectly safe and normal. Well, safe, anyway."
He looked over his load of goods for resale and began making mental calculations.
Garrett Sunday November 27th, 2005 5:23:58 PM
Garrett also follows Bohdi towards the portal to see Karya and listen to what she has to say regarding recent events.
Garrett Sunday November 27th, 2005 5:24:56 PM
Garrett's Spells
Aiden Sunday November 27th, 2005 6:57:47 PM
Aiden, after having fought against creatures that were once living, was still a bit hesitant about entering an area that was called 'the catacombs'.
However, an idea began to form within his mind. "Garrett..." he muttered, "perhaps this, catacombs, can be used for more than a shop..."
<tags>
"Perhaps we can use it to find other places to bring supplies for the village, knowledge of the outlands, and a way out for those who want to leave..."
<tags>
Neco Sunday November 27th, 2005 11:31:12 PM
When the children speak of the portal, Neco rushes forward. Noticing a female she does not know standing near the portal, she halts and lets the rest of the party pass her by. The rogue slips in behind the ranger and the cleric, peeping 'round when the gnome addresses the one named 'Karya' with some familiarity.
Dregar Monday November 28th, 2005 12:16:40 PM
Dregar walks over with the children, when they mention the portal. He looks in at it, and then over to Bhodi.
" You sure about this?" he asks.
He also drops his packs, and axe to the ground. Kneels on the back of the bag so as to no be in the snow, and watches the portal, making sure everything is ok.
Bohdi (illegal second) Monday November 28th, 2005 12:29:49 PM
"Can't be any worse than the bloody Cave of the Ancients, now, can it?" Bohdi smiled back.
With that, the gnome hoisted the front end of his sledge loaded with goods and headed into the portal.
Garrett (Illegal second post) Monday November 28th, 2005 1:47:08 PM
"That's pretty good thinking Aiden. It could have many uses for us and our people. The only way to know how it works and to see what could be gained there is to go in."
(OOC: Kup, I lost track of where the actual amount of $$ we will get is at. When you get a chance can you break it down and just let me know what my total will be after sale of stuff and buying of group items. Don't forget to subtract 2 wands and 7potions of clw from the group take. I think that should just be bought right after selling everything, and then split the remainder adjusting for Aidens cost of the Gauntlets.)
(Player Kup, ooc, abusing the Edit function this once to save on extraneous response e-mails and posts: Chris, assume Garrett's share is around 7000 gp if we deduct the cost of the group items before the four-way split. Feel free to send an e-mail off-board if you need more info.)
EdglerVess Monday November 28th, 2005 4:43:17 PM
"The name, 'Catacombs', does sound rather ominous, be safe Bohdi." With that, the priest of Gargul turns and heads to the area where the injured are tended to. He takes off his armor and weapons, piling them in a corner. He then rolls up his sleeves and starts helping the village's wisewoman wherever he can (he will take 10 on his heal skill - total 15, burning spells for CLW when the injury is too severe). Once done what he can do there, he shows he is no stranger to hard physical labor. The dwarf gets dirty and sweaty as he digs in, helping with the town's cleanup. While working, he asks anyone and everyone if they have heard of Turak Nor. He tries to determine where this village is in relation to the dwarven city and whether anyone has heard of any news.
Aiden d20=10 Monday November 28th, 2005 8:30:38 PM
Aiden looked around at those who were helping to rebuild their homes. A part of him wanted to do this, afterall, it was not that long ago that he was among the Twin Tusk invaders to the village.
There was some reluctance...but there was also a curiosity to see what this new place was like, and the lands that hold the 'catacombs'. He didn't care for shopping or what it entailed...but to see the unknown, that did peak his interest.
While turned, he did look around to see what warriors were still left with the village...
(OOC: not sure what skill that would go under to be honest...rolled a 10)
"Let us go..." he muttered quickly before he would change his mind.
Neco Monday November 28th, 2005 9:19:47 PM
Seeing as some of the party members have already entered the portal, Neco follows stepping away from the cold.
"This could be interesting." the young rogue thinks to herself.
Justin Webber (DM) Catacombs Tuesday November 29th, 2005 6:40:14 PM
Kayra greets the group but it is cut rather short since she is very busy handling things and shooing kids and people from the portal, "Ahh, thank god you all showedup finally. We were worried something bad may of happened to you. I would like to know more about what happened but for the moment will you guys and ladies please check this portal out and see what it is about? It suddenly appeared in the middle of the village here."
With that said she goes back to pointing people about, giving orders on things that need to be done in the village since it is key that the place get atleast mostly on it's feet right away.
(OOC:Okay everyone, the Catacombs is open and your free to go to that board as you all know. I plan to handle the delivery of your purchases in game so once thats handled stuff will be coming shortly.)
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday November 29th, 2005 9:19:31 PM ooc: DM, I'm assuming that we should keep posting and roleplaying on this board while the CC transactions are occurring. After all, those may take several more days at the present rate. So, to spark and continue the conversation here:
Bohdi looked back through the portal at the devastated village. "Glad to see things are coming back around," he thought aloud. Then, remembering himself, he cleared his throat noisily and added, "I mean, not that it would take much. Bloody awful place was already bad enough, a little ash only seemed to have done it some good."
Bohdi called out to his companions on both sides of the portal. "All right everyone, once someone finally comes about and takes care of the sale of all of these goods we have here, I'll begin buying those two wands and seven potions of cure light wounds that we discussed, and then we'll divide up the rest of the gold as we had agreed."
"Here's my shopping list--would anyone care to comment on it?" He waved a piece of parchment and read from it:
"Bohdi's shopping list:
-- Wand of Magic Missile (3d), 2250 gp -- Pearl of Power (1st), 1000 gp -- Ishgaran Gloves of Dexterity, 2000 gp -- (2) Scrolls of Fireball @ 375 gp, total 750 gp -- (2) Scrolls of Dispel Magic @ 375 gp, total 750 gp -- Silvered dagger, small, 22 gp -- Cold iron dagger, small, 4 gp -- (10) Cold iron crossbow bolts, small, masterwork, 120 gp -- (10) Silvered crossbow bolts, small, masterwork, 80 gp
Total of the above = 6976 gp
(4) 1st level scrolls and spellbook scribing materials @ 125 gp, total 500 gp -- Alarm -- Reduce Person -- Shield -- Shocking Grasp
(8) 2d level scrolls and spellbook scribing materials @ 350 gp, total 2800 gp -- Glitterdust -- Protection from Arrows -- Resist Energy -- Blur -- Rope Trick -- Web -- Scorching Ray -- Spider Climb
Total overall cost = 10,276 gp
Remainder of funds toward scroll materials. 1st level scroll materials 12.5 gp @, 2d level scroll materials 75 gp @."
Dregar Wednesday November 30th, 2005 1:09:46 AM
Dregar listened to Bohdi read from his list. " Sounds like you need a lot Bohdi. But that could be a good thing I guess."
Dregar moved into the portal behind his friends. He wasn't set to get anything but he was coming in for protection.
Aiden Wednesday November 30th, 2005 8:43:21 PM
Aiden quietly listened and watched as all of this occurs. It seems a bit, overwhelming, as he watched the strangeness of the store (and those within it).
His mind thought of some things that 'could' help him, but he was not aware of what these magicks would be called.
(OOC: is there a 'list' posted within the catacombs shop itself detailing what the magick items are called and what they do? Kind of a magick item menu? I'm figuring Aiden wouldn't know what Boots of winterkind would 'do', etc, or Bracers +1)
Bohdi Nackle (illegal second) Thursday December 1st, 2005 3:09:00 PM
After Bohdi's shopping trip ended, the gnome returned to the village and eagerly began studying the scrolls he had purchased. He chuckled to himself as he passed through the village, oblivious to others, and returned to his hut to read and transcribe the reams of arcane writings.
ooc: DMs, once the CC transactions are final I'll post here Bohdi's Spellcraft checks to learn his new spells.
Justin Webber (DM) Village repairs + Thursday December 1st, 2005 7:10:16 PM
The group talks over the items being bought and sold and such while the village still runs about trying to make repairs and such.
After while a man walks up to Kayra and speaks to her before she sighs and nods. Looking to the group she walks over to the nearest one and speaks to them, "Well, when you are all ready we can speak of what has happened. I'm still very curious." Kayra listens to anything said at the moment and also motions to the new people she has never seen before while placing a hand on her hip, "An who are these people? I do not remember seeing them in the village before today."
Garrett Thursday December 1st, 2005 8:48:20 PM
"I am ready Kayra, but as you know, Bohdi is best for a good story telling. I would though, be happy to introduce you to our new friends, This is Edgler, that's Neco, and this is Dregar. They happened to wander across our path during this trial, and joined us in following it through to the end. they are good companions, and we were glad to have them along."
"Guys, this is Kayra. She leads our village."
Dregar Friday December 2nd, 2005 2:58:20 AM
Dregar steps forward and extends his hand to Kayra.
" As they said lass, me name is Dregar, and I came across your friends on the trip. They took me in, and probally without them I'd be frozen wolf food, awaiting a thaw to be eaten." he said with a laugh at the end.
" I am curious as to what has happened. This selling and buying is of no concern to me as I have no real money to spend. So whenever you are ready, I will listen."
Bohdi Nackle Friday December 2nd, 2005 9:38:56 AM
Bohdi dashed out of the shop portal to hand Aiden and Nauthiz'Ull two bags full of gems. "There you are, fellows. Aiden, you have 4877 gp, 3 sp in gems in yours, and Nauthiz'Ull, you have 8477 gp, 3 sp in gems in yours."
"Dregar, would you like me to buy you anything while I'm in there? I think that, between us wunjos, we might be able to scrape some funds together."
The gnome smiled quickly at Kayra--he was clearly in a good mood. "Gotta dash, Kayra ol' bird, but don't you worry--these others can tell the tale just fine!"
The gnome laughed and dashed back through the portal.
Edgler Vess Friday December 2nd, 2005 10:01:37 AM
OOC: Edgler is trapped in the Catacombs! I'm sure my purchases won't take 3 days of game time. I posted earlier in the week that Edgler will be spending time helping the wounded and then, whatever manual labour needed to be done. DMs: He is questioning everyone he meets including Kayra if they know of Turak Nor and where it is in relation to this village. Edgler is quite lost right now!
Dregar Friday December 2nd, 2005 1:02:40 PM
( Illegal Second)
" No, thats ok Bohdi, I'll be fine." Dregar calls out to the gnome as he rushes back into the portal. He then lets out a little laugh, for a little guy he had a lot of energy he thought.
Future Inclinations Saturday December 3rd, 2005 10:38:50 AM
Karya regards Bohdi's response but says nothing, however the others can easily see the two powerfully built men that are ever present at her side are tremendously upset at Bohdi's too familiar tact with the village elder. They do nothing, though, as well. It does not seem to be their place to act without being told to. Karya nods slightly to Dregar and takes his hand.
"I am Karya and tonight we will all sit and discuss the portents of this magical portal and the reconstruction of Ice Peak. Much has happened since the black snow blocked the sun and rained down upon the lands." Levelling her gaze upon all the party members she continues, "Bjorn'Ursa 'As 'Isa Asgir will be returning after the evening star rises. He and Ull'As Bjord with hope will have a good tale to tell themselves." *DM Note: Bjorn'Ursa is Karya's Newphew and is argueably the most powerful man anyone has ever seen. Ull'As Bjord is the village Weapon Master
Karya continues, "So I charge you, Garret 'As Domi, in making sure all of your wunjos attend. We will meet in the reconstructed area of the Obelisk shortly after the rise of the evening star." Karya holds Garret's eyes a moment to silently impart the importance of her words and then turns and moves back through the cold towards the Obelisk, where most of the men and women of the village are taking turns digging through the ash and layers of ice and snow that has subsequently fallen.
Edgler does not have much of a chance to speak with Karya at this time, some others he does talk to in the village do not offer much hope. Apparently except for himself and Dregar they have only seen one other dwarf ever. He was one of the magic ones and a foreigner. Tokken-warja had the most contact with them. Leading them out through the tundra almost 20 days ago and he has yet to return.
Garrett Saturday December 3rd, 2005 8:49:03 PM
Garrett goes to each of his companions one by one and tells them that this is something that is quite important, and that we all need to be there. Garrett is going to go to each of the six of us and get their word that they will be at the obelisk before the rise of the eveing star.
Garrett also makes sure to tell Bohdi of this, planning on dragging him out of the catacombs if need be. Garrett will also mention to Bohdi the rudeness of speaking to Kayra in such a manner, and that it makes us all look bad in the eyes of the villagers.
Aiden Sunday December 4th, 2005 2:40:43 PM
Aiden quietly nodded as Garrett approached him, and told him what was going on. The young man was feeling overwhelmed by what he saw in the Catacombs. This was something that he didn't know anything about aka shopping, magick weapons/potions, and so forth.
In most ways, it felt rather overwhelming. Aiden knew that it was important for him to find better ways to help himself in terms of equipment. With better equipment, the chances for survival in the harsh wilderness were increased.
But he just didn't feel comfortable with doing the ordering....
Once he was able to pull to the side for a brief moment, the ranger of few words was not stupid. He recognized the need to get someone more, experienced, to aid him. "Bohdi..." as he tried to approach the gnome (when Bohdi is separated from the catacombs), "I..." as he seemed to hesitate for a few moments. "I..." as his eyes hardened as he abhorred feeling ignorant. "I need you to speak to these people and to barter for a better weapon or armor..." His words were hushed, and carried a definite hint of embarrassment.
Making direct eye contact, "You are more familiar with this catacombs and 'buying' than I...it would be foolish for me to try and do this..."
<tags>
Bohdi Nackle Sunday December 4th, 2005 3:39:42 PM
Bohdi eyed the tall, burly ranger, formerly of Twin Tusk village, with a look that carried equal measures of caution and respect. After all, it hadn't been that long since their first journey together ... and the wet trousers, and yellow snow, that Aiden's menacing visage had engendered for the gnome.
"Ahh, certainly," the gnome assured Aiden. "Weapon, or armor, eh? Well, my good chap, the weaponmasters back in Zarnan City used to say that the warrior's style dictated the choice of which to emphasize. Of course, I would know ... er ... nothing about the matter in actual practice ... um .. that is ... er, well, yes. Ahem."
"Yes, let me consider the matter and I will return with purchases for you in time for the Council tonight. All right? If you would just be so good as to ... um ... return to me the gems I had brought you ... um ... that is, ahem, if you would be so kind ... ah, heh."
Aiden (illegal 2nd) d20=12 Sunday December 4th, 2005 6:03:23 PM
Aiden looked at the gnome, a small smirk appearing on his face. "Gems?" he asked his voice having a small part mirth buried deep within the questioning tone.
"Bohdi..." he said with a small sigh, "I will make sure that you receive some of the coin for this favor..."
(OOC: I honestly don't remember Bohdi 'lending' gems to him. Rolled a 12 (without any mods) to try and sense motive (a skill that our ranger lacks). Follow up question, is there any magick that could be purchased for the 'town' survival (heat, food, something)?)
EdglerVess Sunday December 4th, 2005 8:12:09 PM
The dwarven priest continures to work tirelessly throughout the day. He agrees to attend the evening meeting, but Garrett can easily detect that Edgler is obviously concerned about something.
Neco Sunday December 4th, 2005 9:32:23 PM
From the broken little town in the Ice Vein, Neco can be seen through the portal that lay in the center. She is selling and buying items to a large bald man in 'Kelley green' apron. Items are placed on the table and money counted out. The young girl's transaction seems to be happening without a problem.
Aiden (retcon) Sunday December 4th, 2005 10:31:03 PM
OOC: sorry, I missed that Bohdi had given us the cash in gems....If everyone is ok, I'd like to retcon it.
Aiden looked at the gems that had been placed within his hand by the gnome just a few moments earlier. A couple were pretty...but what good are gems in surviving the tundra?
"Here..." as he gave the gems to Bohdi. "And thank you..."
"Bohdi..." he said with a small look of chagrin, "I will make sure that you receive some of the coin for this favor..."
Dregar Monday December 5th, 2005 4:43:00 AM
Dregar listens as Garret tells them what they have to do. He nods his head and assures him that he'll be there. While he waits, Dregar moves towards Edgler and pats him on the shoulder.
In Dwarven " You need any help friend?"
EdglerVess Monday December 5th, 2005 11:22:12 AM
Edgler smiles at Dregar and replies in dwarvish, "Ahhh, it is good to hear our language. But, as you can tell, I am troubled." The priest shoves the shovel he was using back into the snow and ash and leans on it. "I am from Turak Nor and we are involved in a generations long war against orcs. In recent times, the orcs developed Necromancers. These evil beings have tipped the balance in their favour. After an attack the Necromancers raise the dead... theirs and ours... to continue the fight. We get no time to regroup or rest. "So, Gargul, and his hatred of undead, came to help us. I was one of the youngest to pass the tests on the first attempt. I was on my way to the front lines when the earthquake hit. Caverns and tunnels collapsed. "I travelled for many days until I came to the surface, but I did not recognize where I was. Soon after I found Neco and then the Ice Pack." The priest stops for a moment and grasps his holy symbol. "I thought I knew what path Gargul wanted me to follow, but now I don't recognize the path... or even the lands I am currently in. No one here has even heard of Turak Nor. I hope the battle goes well without me."
Dregar Monday December 5th, 2005 1:39:59 PM
( Illegal Second)
Dregar puts his paw on the priests shoulder. A tear rims his eye, knowing well that many Dwarves have lost their lifes in the fight.
" I too lost loved ones recently. And I lost them to those blooded orks also." He turns his face as a tear rolls down his face, but tutns back to continue.
" We were on a hunting party when the filthy creatures attacked us. I was hit in the head with a rock" he says, pointing to the huge scar on his forehead. " It knocked me out. When I awoke, my father laid next to me. And he wasn't living anymore. I never lost someone like that. I was crushed. I made it back to my village, the only survivor of the attack. Instead of welcoming me, my village thought I was bad luck. They made me leave, which is when I came across you guys."
He wipes the tear away and looks down at his feet for a few seconds......." After we are all done here. I'll help you look for your village and your people."
Aiden Monday December 5th, 2005 10:04:04 PM
Aiden listened to the stories of the dwarves. It was pretty typical of the raids that were conducted by those of Twin Tusks, his native village.
Quietly, his thoughts began to go back to his youth and Twin Tusks....A curiosity began to grow.
What was happening there...who was the strongest warrior, and therefore the leader?
His thoughts went to his former 'friends' and the slaves that were held there. And for a brief moment, Aiden's features darkened before 'recovering'. Right now, he was too weak to do anything. Perhaps, after he survives some more battles, he and the others could start to address that problem. Maybe it was time for Ice Peaks to start raiding Twin Tusks...at least some patrols....
His thoughts began to wander again towards plans for the future.
Neco Monday December 5th, 2005 10:08:45 PM
"Hello everyone!" the young rogue greets the party. "That Catacombs sure is nice. They have everything imaginable, and more. It's a whole lot warmer in there too." Neco moves from the portal towards Garret. "Garret, I'm a little confused. I need to know... What is an evening star? When will it rise? What is a wunjo? And does it rise to?"
(OOC: I need to update my character sheet with the stuff I bought. Who do I send it to and at what address?)
EdglerVess Tuesday December 6th, 2005 8:36:48 AM
"I am sorry for your troubles, Dregar," Edgler comments. "But your elders should have seen that you are blessed, not cursed. To be the sole survivor of a battle in which one has fought bravely is a position of honor." The priest picks up his shovel and once again begins digging out the entrance of a home, "I would welcome you on my search for my city. And once there you will be welcomed... as you should be. "But," Edgler pauses momentarily to gaze at the skies. "It would seem that this 'IcePack' has some kind of 'destiny' wrapped around it. I'm not sure if you, Neco and I are part of that yet, but I'm going to see it through. At least until I figure out where-in-the-wold I am."
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