Appolo Tuesday February 14th, 2006 4:08:57 PM
Appolo follows the others to the services.He catches up to Xenia and the rest"I'm sorry Xenia,but I don't think we're done here and we all all could use a bath."
DM JohnP - Apology Wednesday February 15th, 2006 2:35:33 PM
I missed the DM post last night due to it being both Valentine's Day and my 2-year-old being sick. I'll resume posting tonight.
Syr Wednesday February 15th, 2006 4:41:59 PM
The elf nods at Xenia, "I miss Wynn too, although NOT in the same way." He grins at the rogue, "I can agree with the bath. Ya know, I don't think I've ever seen you be so effective with a weapon, you should do that more often." He nods to the spiked chain. Joining the others for the service, he pays his respects to those that have fallen.
In Memento Mori (DM JohnP) Wednesday February 15th, 2006 8:55:58 PM Garrett goes off to retrieve Uriel's body and bring it to the main hall. He didn't spend much time with the paladin but he feels that he should do the best that he can for his onetime companion.
The other members of the party banter back and forth as they join the quiet procession of students and teachers into the largest building within the Oshirr House compound. After each member of the party enters the simple hall, they are impressed by the quiet. Glancing around, nearly everyone is in attendance and there is little more sound than the rustling of clothing and the shuffle of feet on the polished floor.
A quiet hush soon falls over the assembled crowd. At one end of the room, six forms wrapped in sheets lie on the floor. The blood staining the white fabric is evidence that each of these people died through violence. The more observant members of the party can pick out Uriel's still body beside the fallen students.
A hush soon falls over the crowd. Looking over the heads of the people in front of them, Domi and Alemi can be seen walking to the front of the room beside the bodies of the fallen defenders of Oshirr House. At a nod from Alemi, Domi steps forward.
"We are gathered to bear witness to the passing of these people who died defending Oshirr House and what all of us believe in. I am sure that all of you know the fallen, but let me speak of them.
"Miriam was not the fastest, nor the strongest nor even the most determined. But she was stolid, dependable and finally gave her life to protect her companions."
"Ulfgar was friend to many of you. He perhaps journeyed the farthest of any of you in his search to overcome the blood feuds and rages of his people. He fell today blocking the advance of a fey ogre, using the rage of his fathers to accomplish that."
"Beneditti was newly arrived but was already a member of our community. His wit and charm was known to all."
"Cain was among the first who sought out our master. He labored long and hard to establish this place and tonight fell defending it."
"Zacharias was small of stature but gifted in many other ways. His love for learning was an inspiration for any who studied with him. I know that many of you attended classes with him."
The primal monk stops and several students can be heard crying in the sudden silence.
"The final defender was not known to any of you. He came with some companions who assisted in the defense tonight, bearing messages of great portent. He died earlier today in battle with other servants of Gargul. It is fitting and proper that he lie here with our fellows."
"Alemi will now conduct the service."
Domi steps aside and Alemi comes to stand before the students and teachers of Oshirr House.
"Domi has spoken of those who fell. Each of us will mourn them in our own way. I ask of you that you keep the larger purpose in mind. We will have a larger, more fitting service when the danger is past."
Alemi then begins a religious service. The names of the deities invoked are foreign to every member of the party, even to Garrett. Alemi finishes with an invocation.
"Gods above and below, within and without, hear our requests and fairly judge those who fell tonight. In the names of all deities, we request this. Everyone, go in peace and remembrance."
As people gradually file out, Alemi and Domi will approach the party. Alemi extends his hands to them.
"Again, thank you for the defense of the north wall. If you wish, students are preparing some food for those who are hungry in the next hall. I will summon you in the morning and we can discuss what has occurred."
In Memento Mori (DM JohnP) Wednesday February 15th, 2006 8:55:58 PM Garrett goes off to retrieve Uriel's body and bring it to the main hall. He didn't spend much time with the paladin but he feels that he should do the best that he can for his onetime companion.
The other members of the party banter back and forth as they join the quiet procession of students and teachers into the largest building within the Oshirr House compound. After each member of the party enters the simple hall, they are impressed by the quiet. Glancing around, nearly everyone is in attendance and there is little more sound than the rustling of clothing and the shuffle of feet on the polished floor.
A quiet hush soon falls over the assembled crowd. At one end of the room, six forms wrapped in sheets lie on the floor. The blood staining the white fabric is evidence that each of these people died through violence. The more observant members of the party can pick out Uriel's still body beside the fallen students.
A hush soon falls over the crowd. Looking over the heads of the people in front of them, Domi and Alemi can be seen walking to the front of the room beside the bodies of the fallen defenders of Oshirr House. At a nod from Alemi, Domi steps forward.
"We are gathered to bear witness to the passing of these people who died defending Oshirr House and what all of us believe in. I am sure that all of you know the fallen, but let me speak of them.
"Miriam was not the fastest, nor the strongest nor even the most determined. But she was stolid, dependable and finally gave her life to protect her companions."
"Ulfgar was friend to many of you. He perhaps journeyed the farthest of any of you in his search to overcome the blood feuds and rages of his people. He fell today blocking the advance of a fey ogre, using the rage of his fathers to accomplish that."
"Beneditti was newly arrived but was already a member of our community. His wit and charm was known to all."
"Cain was among the first who sought out our master. He labored long and hard to establish this place and tonight fell defending it."
"Zacharias was small of stature but gifted in many other ways. His love for learning was an inspiration for any who studied with him. I know that many of you attended classes with him."
The primal monk stops and several students can be heard crying in the sudden silence.
"The final defender was not known to any of you. He came with some companions who assisted in the defense tonight, bearing messages of great portent. He died earlier today in battle with other servants of Gargul. It is fitting and proper that he lie here with our fellows."
"Alemi will now conduct the service."
Domi steps aside and Alemi comes to stand before the students and teachers of Oshirr House.
"Domi has spoken of those who fell. Each of us will mourn them in our own way. I ask of you that you keep the larger purpose in mind. We will have a larger, more fitting service when the danger is past."
Alemi then begins a religious service. The names of the deities invoked are foreign to every member of the party, even to Garrett. Alemi finishes with an invocation.
"Gods above and below, within and without, hear our requests and fairly judge those who fell tonight. In the names of all deities, we request this. Everyone, go in peace and remembrance."
As people gradually file out, Alemi and Domi will approach the party. Alemi extends his hands to them.
"Again, thank you for the defense of the north wall. If you wish, students are preparing some food for those who are hungry in the next hall. I will summon you in the morning and we can discuss what has occurred."
Oni Borzzone Thursday February 16th, 2006 12:41:23 AM
Oni staysat the burial site, or the funeral site. So many died fighting what they believed in. Sad this life.
Garrett Thursday February 16th, 2006 8:30:27 AM
"It was our pleasure to be of help. Is there a good spot that we may all clean up before eating and sleep? I think the morning would be an excellent time to discuss things. That, and it would give myself and my friends a chance to talk amongst ourselves."
Garrett waits for the direction to be given, and then goes to get cleaned up, followed by a bite to eat, and then a return to our rooms.
Assuming everyone goes back to the rooms, Garrett thinks we should take this opportunity to discuss what has occurred amongst ourselves.
"I guess I'll start. Excellent battle guys. Taking out that many foes without a single casualty on our side was most impressive. I'll fight alongside any of you any time."
"But i think it also showed us why we are here. Eberyon is turning Gargalus's monsters into fey. He's making them even more powerful and tougher to kill. We will have to stop him. If we have to stop him, then we will likely have to kill him, which would end his threat in the future."
"If like Alemi and Domi, Eberyon is not yet a god, then maybe this our chance. If you can't kill a god, i guess you go back in time and take him out before he becomes a god. Just my thoughts on the possibilities."
Xenia Thursday February 16th, 2006 12:04:20 PM
Xenia mutters a reply to Syrdeth. Something about it being due to Garrett's spell. That, and being able to 'hide real good.'
At the Service, her silence continues. When thanks are conferred upon them by the once and future god, the rogue drops her eyes to the ground, and dips in a quick and shallow curtsey.
As the gathering breaks apart, she wanders off alone. To find water. To let free her cascade of fire-red hair. Water washes her slim dark body. It cleans the blood from her hands. Blood wrings from her clothing to soak the ground of Oshirr House.
++++++++++++++++
"But, Garrett," Xenia counters later on in the discussion after food and rest bring a greater sense of relaxation, "if what we got in the future has already happened, what you wanna go changing it for? I mean, we're here trying to keep quiet about Domi and Alemi being gods cause we don't wanna mess anything up. Right? So why do you wanna mess with other stuff for?"
"Sounds real good attacking Ebyron here so that he won't make trouble for us in the future. But if we do, what other stuff will that change in the future? Maybe that won't just effect all the things he does after he wakes up. Maybe it affects lots of other stuff in between. What if all the Fey and Nature stuff dies off? Who knows what that could do. Maybe we go back and the place is overrun by undead. What if taking out Ebyron takes away the reason for Alemi and the Golden Dragons to go after the old gods and the New Gods never become gods at all?"
Syr Thursday February 16th, 2006 3:17:18 PM
Looking around to make sure that none of this time are present he whispers to the party, "Hmmm maybe I'm missing something but in OUR time, Ebyron is 'asleep'. I thought I heard that the 'Fey King has awoken?' If we are the ones to dictate the future, wouldn't we just bind him somewhere?" The elf has a pined expression on his face, trying to figure things out.
Oni Borzzone Thursday February 16th, 2006 6:15:46 PM
Following the rest of the party he cleans and washes the battle away. After eating some, he listens to those around him.
"I was hoping one of you would know wht we are hear. Since I was late in joining all of you, well, I just expected you to know. Somehow, i couldnt make the right decisions in that temple." He shakes his head in frustration. "Now as you have seen i have the ability to call others from the other planes to help in fighting. I have studied much on the subject. They are often governed by many different things than we are.
"Which brings met to the point. In this time, in this place, we need to know all we can about the inhabitants here. Also, Alemi, spoke of the elves helping us. Since elves are known for their longevity in years, I think it vastly important to talk to them as well. Mostly though, we need to froget what we know in our own present. We have learned the tales of histories, and legends from the people who survived the years from now until our lifetime. What i mean to say, is how much knowledge has been lost because someone may have died, or been on the losing side of a battle?
"Decision making, like what we are faced with now, has consequences that are so farreaching, we could not even fathom. Careful we must be."
Garrett Friday February 17th, 2006 8:47:36 AM
"You are all right. But how can we do nothing. By helping in the battle that just took place, we may have already changed much of the future. People may have lived that should have died. Alemi and Domi may have had to do something different or new or desperate should the battle have been much closer."
"For that matter, how do we know we haven't done this before in time. Perhaps we are in a big circle in time, constantly going back and changing things that set the future as it is. Perhaps our wold is as it is because of what we do back here. Perhaps if not for us, Oshirr house would have fallen this night, and Domi and Alemi died, never to take their place in our future."
"We don't know enough about the why and how to make proper decisions. But someone or something does. My spells are being granted. If Domi is not yet a god, can he grant them to me? Can he bestow my spells and hear my prayers from the future, or is some other deity doing it? If so, why? I will meditate and pray upon these things tonight, and I will pray for some divination spells in the morning perhaps asking a few good questions would go a long way. It would be a good idea for each of us to try and think of good yes or no questions that might help steer our course of action."
"Aside from that, hopefully Alemi will have some good advice or insight, or perhaps even the elves, should we speak to them."
Appolo Friday February 17th, 2006 2:47:04 PM
Appolo goes to the service remains quiet.He then follows the others back to thier quarters.He listens a bit"Guys don't sweat it.Whatever will be will be.Your thinking to much about this.We are here to put a beat down on this Fey King guy.Obviosly this is what we are supposed to be doing.Just keep our mouths shut about the future.That's all.Now let's get cleaned up,something to eat then some sleep."
Oni Borzzone Friday February 17th, 2006 7:09:17 PM
"With all due respect to your authority and ability to lead in combat, Appolo, we are only discussing options. I do not like being told to shut up, when i have been asked my opinion." The elf raises his eyebrow at Appolo as he says this.
Xenia Saturday February 18th, 2006 7:49:35 PM
"Don't mind him," Xenia's says quietly to Oni the Magic Guy. Her green eyes are off somewhere else though. Thinking things. "He didn't mean nothing by that." Her apology for what is most likely no more than a misunderstanding drifts out on the breeze of her distraction. Her mind is somewhere else entirely. "Some guys, they're just better with action than with words, you know."
She drifts off into silence for a moment. And when she returns, it is along a completely different path.
"I think that would be a good idea, Garrett. I mean the Divination thing. Be nice to hear from someone who's got an idea of what they got here. Haven't heard from anyone like that since that Ussel, Priest of Gargul guy."
The Day After (DM JohnP) Sunday February 19th, 2006 2:31:22 PM DM Apology - the stomach virus returned with a vengeance on Thursday evening. I wasn't able to spend enough time at the computer to post on Thursday and too wiped on Friday or Saturday to get a post in.
The next morning dawns cool and fresh. Each member of the party awakens to the sound of a bell ringing from the cookhouse where they were served meal after the battle.
The battle ... each person remembers what happened the night before. The masses of fey-touched kobolds and orcs compelled to attack the Oshirr House. Futilely, it turns out but there were times when the battle was in real doubt.
Before they had turned in the previous night, everyone discusses temporal causality. It's bad enough that they are expected to sit down over a meal with the future Gods of the Wold, Alemi and Domi, but Gargul is obviously active too. And instead of being asleep, Eberyon seems to be active. Maybe their questions will be answered during the meal that Alemi and Domi have invited them too.
Everyone make their morning preparations. For Garrett, Toros and Oni that includes preparing their day's spell allotments. Everyone else bathes, prepares their gear, or whatever starts their day.
In a very short time, there is a polite knock at the door. When someone opens it, a student stands there. His tunic is the same white as everyone else wore, no different than the day before, but now he has a bandage wrapped around one hand.
"Masters Alemi and Domi ask you to break fast with them. Are you prepared to join them?"
The student waits for the party and then leads them to Alemi's cottage. Nodding to the two students guarding the door, he taps politely. When Alemi opens the door, the future God dismisses both the guards and the guide.
"Come in, come in. I have a simple meal prepared, please seat yourself and eat. We don't stand on ceremony here."
Domi is already in the room, seated at a table. When the party enters, he stands and moves over to a serving table where several covered dishes wait. The smells of freshly baked muffins, cereal and other foods rush out when he removes the covers.
"Sit and eat," Alemi continues. Looking to Toros, he continues, "I apologize sir, we have never had one of your kind here before. In fact, in this day and time, your kind are not civilized at all and are dangers to all and sundry. I apologize for I do not believe that all the food here will be to your liking."
When the first party member moves to the serving table, they cannot see any meat or eggs there. Apparently Alemi has already started to be concerned for all life.
After everyone has had a chance to eat, Alemi will address them.
"Thank you again for your assistance last night. Gargalus has been sending his minions to attack us repeatedly for the last several nights. Perhaps, with last night's effort, we might have some respite."
"You were sent back here to investigate the parchment. The story is long, complex and ... since you are here ... likely to be very significant. The struggle involves not just ourselves here at Oshirr House, but Gargalus, Eberyon and Maab."
The future god looks around at the party. Seeing their expressions, he elaborates.
"You thought that some of those names were myth? Or you did not realize that we are contemporaries? Well, I will admit, Eberyon and Maab are far, far older than Gargalus and I but we're all here together."
"I can give directions to any of the others, if you wish to investigate there. Or, you could even start here, with what I know and believe."
DM Addendum - Garrett, if you choose to use your divination spells, please inform me in your post and I will provide the results.
Garrett Monday February 20th, 2006 7:53:51 AM
(I would like to use my divinations after speaking with Alemi, he may be able to provide insight to help steer my questions in the right direction.)
Garrett sits and eats with Alemi and Domi, and listens as Alemi begins the discussions. "I think it would be best to start with what you know and believe. Your insight into what is happening may be invaluable."
"In our time, we assembled because Eberyon had awoken from a very long slumber. In doing so, he more or less set nature to run amok. Much damage was and is being done to the Wold, and many were and possibly are being killed. We began looking for clues to learn more of Eberyon and ways to stop what he was doing. That led us to the parchment, and brought us here. From last nights battle, it is obvious that Eberyon is, shall we say, enhancing Gargalus' troops. But why? any insight you can give into this and anything else could be most useful."
"To be honest, we are not exactly sure of what we need to do, or how we need to do it. We just know that something needs to be done. We were sent to this time for a reason, we just do not know what it is yet."
Appolo Monday February 20th, 2006 10:02:00 AM
Appolo awakes bath,dresses and jions the others for breakfast.He takes a seat and looks at the fruit.Looking around"Ah could I possibly get some steak and eggs.Man I'm hungry."
He then sits quietly listening to Garrett"Yes.We are here to find out how to kill this Fet King."he adds witha rather cheerful smile.
Xenia Monday February 20th, 2006 11:15:20 AM Mmmmm ... Muffins!
"Um, I don't think they eat meat here, 'Ppolo," Xenia whispers as her eyes rove the basket of muffins for ones with berries baked into them. She takes one. Then she takes two more and adds some breakfast fruit on the side.
The rogue nibbles at her meal in silence, listening to Garrett as he lays their side of things down for the two future god guys. While she listens, Xenia takes a bit of her drink and spills it out on the table. Pulling a glove off with her teeth, she begins to diagram things out on the table with the tip of a dark finger.
In the spill of drink, she draws out an A and a D for Alemi and Domi. Then, above that, she draws a G for Gargulus. From Gargulus, she draws arrows pointing toward Alemi and Domi, showing Gargulus attacking Alemi and Domi. That's pretty clear. And that's stuff they already knew before they left their own time.
Then, up in the corner, she draws an E and an M for Ebyron and Maab. From Ebyron to Gargulus, she draws an arrow with one head at each end, to show Ebyron and Gargulus working together. That's pretty clear too, from the parchment, and from everything they've seen since they've been here.
Next to the M for Maab, the rogue draws a question mark.
"Hey, er ... Alemi," still not used to talking to gods like regular they're guys, "since you know these guys, like, um, personal and all, what's this Maab like? Maab's a woman, right?"
"I mean, the way I see it, you got you and Domi here, and you're just trying to defend yourselves and go on living. Right? And you got Gargulus, who doesn't like that for some reason and he's attacking you. He's conspiritorizing with Ebyron to get this done by making creatures that can beat you. I mean, whatever the reason they're attacking and all, I think they're pretty set on what they're doing. It's gonna be hard to change their minds short of killing them, if you know what I mean."
"But Maab, we don't know nothing about yet. And she's a woman. Women got sense. Maybe we can talk to her. Maybe we can get her to help us out. Tell us about her. What's she like?"
Oni Borzzone Monday February 20th, 2006 3:36:29 PM
Oni listens to the conversations. He intently watches and listens when Xenia is talking, she intrigues him. He raises an eyebrow at the comment that women have sense. But otherwise keeps to himself.
Interview with Alemi (DM JohnP) Monday February 20th, 2006 10:20:23 PM
When Garrett starts explaining about Eberyon in the time where the party came from, Alemi holds his hands up and tries to stop the cleric from speaking.
"Please! Please, do not tell us anything more than you must! Who knows how it might affect things to come?"
Domi excuses himself at this point.
"Master, I have duties to perform this day. And it would be better if I not hear more than I must, either. With your permission?"
Alemi waves him off, "Go, you! I've told you time and again, you're no longer my servant. You're my friend! But you're right, best be off."
The first monk nods to the party then goes to the door, quietly opens it and then shuts it firmly behind himself.
Alemi looks back and forth between Garrett and Xenia.
"You've got the right of it, mainly. But I don't know that is the answer, my pirate friend," directing this at Appolo.
Alemi leans back from the table and sighs. He rubs his chin through his beard, then tosses his head.
"Let me think of how to explain to all of you. Ahhh, how much do people in your time know of the creation of the Wold? Probably not much, except for pedants and clerics probably."
"Gargalus is adding souls to monsters and has been for many years. By doing this, the monsters become much more dangerous and capable of advancement. He is using powerful magics to do so, exactly what I don't know. But Eberyon certainly could allow him to do such a thing."
Alemi stops speaking for a moment and sits with his head in his hands. When he resumes speaking, it's with a deeper and stronger voice. Everyone listening can tell that he is absolutely convinced in his beliefs and actions.
"I have been trying for years to contact the Gods to see if they will help. They don't. Seems they are not concerned with the creation, except that they are worshipped. A threat to that worship, doesn't seem to worry them. I still try occasionally, but have turned my efforts to try to contact the Creator of the Wold with the Rings of Ascension and the Soul Forge. However, so far, I have been unsuccessful. It takes total single-mindedness which I can't achieve."
"I must."
"If the gods won't help, he must."
For probably most of the party, this is considerably more information about the creation and early history of the Wold than they've ever received before. After thinking for the moment, this might be the time to pose some questions of Alemi.
Xenia Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:13:47 PM Problem solving. Alright. The girl rogue puts some of her girl's sense to work on the problem.
"'Kay. Lots of stuff here, Alemi. And, you know, sometimes you got so much stuff you're thinking of that it all gets in the way. Sometimes it takes an outsider to really cut through everything to get to the real bits of problem."
"First, I wanna ask you, just what sort of help are you expecting from these Gods you're talking about? Or, I mean, even from the Creator of the Wold. (Whoa. Didn't know there was a Creator of the Wold.) I mean, what are you gonna ask this Creator to do when you get to her?"
"Second, what have you been trying? With these Rings of Ascension and Soul Forge things? I mean, how you going about it? Looks to me, Alemi, that you got a lot to take care of here in Oshirr House. Lots of people looking up to you for, like, protection and guiding and such. And if single-mindedness is what you think you need, I don't see how you're gonna get that if you're ministering to all these other things."
"Make sense?"
"Have you thought of putting someone else in charge? Maybe the Domi guy. He looks pretty stand-up. Maybe we could help you too. Then you could, like, lock yourself in a room with only that one thing to deal with, no other problems, and maybe you could get it done."
"Am I making sense here?"
Garrett Tuesday February 21st, 2006 12:30:52 PM
"You say that the Gods are not concerned, yet someone is. Let me pose this to you. I have been praying for spells and receiving them as normal, yet the one I follow and pray to is not even a deity in this time. What other being would step in and grant spells in his stead, and why? Could my Lord's reach extend back in time to assist me here? These are things I have been thinking upon, and have come to no suitable answer."
"I have prayed for several divination spells which allow me to ask questions of my Lord. After our discussion here, I will do this in an attempt to try and answer these questions and direct our path to stopping Eberyon and perhaps even Gargalus. And if you have ideas for questions that I might ask, I would be more than happy to hear them, or even questions for your own sake regarding the present matters"
"But unless another better path is shown, or an alternate course. We will likely be going after Eberyon to stop what he is doing, and will do."
"What role does Maab play in all of this?"
Appolo Tuesday February 21st, 2006 3:52:37 PM
Appolo listens quiwtly and eats.He says nothing,he will let Garrett do most of the talking.
Appolo Tuesday February 21st, 2006 3:54:39 PM
Appolo eats quietly and listens.He will let Garrett do most of the talking.
Questions (DM JohnP) Tuesday February 21st, 2006 10:05:19 PM Xenia thinks on what Alemi has told the party then asks some questions. Garrett asks some questions himself. All the while, Appolo sits quietly and lets the others speak for him.
Alemi thinks quietly before replying.
"I was going to ask the Creator to either make the gods listen to the plight of the people of the Wold, or .... I'm not wholly sure. Maybe ask the Creator to sweep them aside and replace them."
"We know that the Creator used the Rings and the Soulforge to make the Wold. Then the Creator stepped away from the Wold, creating the gods to serve as intermediaries between mortals and himself. The Creator is now so remote from mortal concerns that devices as powerful as the Rings and the Soulforge, and so linked to the Creator, will be needed to make contact."
"You're right. It does require singleminded dedication and I haven't been able to achieve that, what with all the concerns of running this place. Your suggestion has merit."
Then Alemi turns to Garrett. "It's heartening that your prayers are being answered, even though the one that you worship is not a deity in this time. Who knows the reason, though?"
"I can't really suggest any possible question. Maybe you should save those spells until after you investigate further. If you want, I can provide directions to any of the others - Maab, Eberyon or Gargalus. It's best that you scout Gargalus' lair during the day when many of his creations will be sleeping or at their weakest."
Oni Borzzone Tuesday February 21st, 2006 10:25:11 PM
Oni continues to watch and listen.
Xenia Tuesday February 21st, 2006 10:25:58 PM
"Well maybe you just said it, Alemi. You're not wholly sure. Like my Da always said, Single-minded of purpose is single-minded of goal. Well, he didn't actually say just that. But lots of stuff like it. Stuff on Focus and Discipline. And part of that is knowing what your target is. I mean, you gotta know what you want before you can really go for it, right? How can you put all of yourself into something, when you're not really sure that's what you want, huh?"
"Hey, you know, I got an idea. Tell me if this sound crazy or not. You say the Creator put the gods here to be, like, a sorta middleman between himself and the us mortals, right? Well, sounds to me like from the way you're describing things, that they aren't doing their job. All they're thinking of is being, like, you know, worshipped and all."
"So, maybe it *is* time to get them replaced. And, you know, I was wondering if this Gargulus guy wouldn't, like, you know, be willing to even help you out with this, if there were some cut of the pie for him. We could maybe talk to him. Maybe if there were a godhood in all this for him, he'd change his ways."
"But that means we gotta know more about this Gargulus. I mean, you don't just go giving godhood to any old guy on the street, right? What's he like? And why's he got a beef against you all? Why's he bent on attacking Oshirr House?"
Garrett Wednesday February 22nd, 2006 8:19:47 AM
Garrett sits and listens to what Alemi says, and then thinks upon it while Xenia lays out her idea.
"I'm not sure it's a good idea to get involved in that Xenia. As we know, things of that nature should set themselves upon the right path in due time. I'm thinking we should go see Maab. She seems to be the one relatively neutral party in this matter. Since she's been around as long as Eberyon, she may have much more insight into everything."
Interview Conclusion (DM JohnP) Thursday February 23rd, 2006 11:44:30 AM
Alemi looks up at Xenia and Garrett as they continue to discuss options. Looking at Xenia, Alemi clears his throat.
"The enmity between Gargalus and myself is old. He often opposes anything that I do out of pure spite rather than any rational reason. He is a villain, pure and simple."
Alemi turns to Garrett and nods.
"Maab could provide some very useful information. To find her, you need to go ... why don't I send some guides with you?"
He goes to the door and opens it, summoning a student. He has a hushed with the student bafore returning.
"I've summoned two guides to accompany you. They both know the area and can help you avoid the monsters that Gargalus has created. Do you have any questions while we wait for them?" [b]
Syr Thursday February 23rd, 2006 4:40:15 PM
Syr wakes from his dreamlike state and listens patiently as Alemi, Garrett, and Xenia debate the next step. (OOC: sorry guys, for some reason I thought this tap was completed after the big battle and never checked the board.)
Xenia Thursday February 23rd, 2006 4:51:28 PM
Xenia looks from Garrett to Alemi and back to Garrett again.
"Yeah. I suppose you're right, Gar. Feels kind of dicey, if you know what I mean? Bartering godhood and all. You know, kinda weird."
"Hokay. No talking with Gargalus. Gotcha."
"But before we go, why don'tcha tell us a bit about Ebyron and Maab? I mean, all we got really is ... " she waves a hand at the letters drawn on the table with arrows pointing to and from each other. " ... All we got is this stuff."
"I mean, what's the deal between Ebyron and Maab? They tight? If we see Maab is Ebyron likely gonna be around? Or, are they like, you know, separated and all?"
"What about you? I mean, we know you and Gargalus are, like cats and dogs. What about you and Ebyron? Maab? Ever met them? What are they like? They feel same way 'bout you that Gargalus does?"
"I mean, if we're gonna go and talk to someone, try and convince 'em 'bout something, it's nice to know something 'bout them ahead of time, you know?"
Garrett Thursday February 23rd, 2006 4:56:12 PM
Garrett stands and waits for our guides to arrive, and then listens as Xenia puts forward a few very good questions. "Nice thinking Xenia, that could all be quite useful."
The Guides Arrive (DM JohnP) Sunday February 26th, 2006 4:00:52 PM
Alemi thinks for a moment before answering.
"Maab was created by Eberyon long, long ago. Created to be his lover and the mother of many of the creatures that Eberyon. Ultimately she rebelled against that role. Today they live apart. But they are linked, somehow, and I'm not certain if either one really knows how to describe their relationship."
Everyone can now hear footsteps on the porch of the cottage.
"Ahh, your guides are here. Both of them might have more information about Maab and Eberyon."
The door opens and two women enter the cottage. One is tall, taller than any member of the party and clad in tight black leather, with a rapier on her belt. She looks the party over and sniffs dismissively.
"These the ones that you want shown around and protected?"
The second woman is clad in shapeless clothes that are stained and dishevelled. She slides to the side of the door and stands there without speaking.
"Yes, Dreana, these are the people that need to go visit Maab and Eberyon. Can you and Thora show them about?"
Dreana, the tall woman in leather, nods to Alemi and then turns to the party.
"Don't mind that Thora doesn't say anything. If she ever does, pay attention though. So, you want to see the Father and Mother of the Fey, do you? Do you know what you might get yourselves into? Probably not, I guess. Well, times wasting so let's get moving."
Thora, the dishevelled woman, opens the door and steps outside. The party sees her pick up a pack and a bow that is almost as tall as the woman. She starts walking towards the gate from the compound, only glancing upwards and not at any of the students and masters who are about in the compound.
"Don't fear, old man. We'll look after them and get them back here safe and sound," Dreana says before ushering the party from the cottage.
As the party walks, Dreana continues to speak.
"So, who do you want to go see first? Maab or Eberyon?"
Xenia Sunday February 26th, 2006 10:25:30 PM "Cre-ay-tid?" You can hear each syllable in the rogue's pronunciation. "Well. That's convenient. For someone." She gives a little purse lipped frown to show what she thinks of the idea. The fists automatically rise to her hips.
"But good for her. I think that deserves a little rebellion. Created to make little monsters." Xenia shakes her head. What are some people thinking?
The rogue gives the little hand wave thing when the two guides arrive. Girls. That's good.
"Hi. I'm Xenia. Pleased to meecha." She pauses, eying the tall one. "You know, Dreana ... you remind me of someone." Then she shakes her head again, but this time it's just a simple that's-not-quite-right kind of shaking her head. "Never mind."
The dark girl talks as she slings her haversack over her shoulders.
"Actually, no. We don't really know what we're getting ourselves into. That's what you're for. Right? And that brings me to my first question. Not about Maab or Ebyron at all. This one's about you. What's your place in this picture? You and Thora? I mean, you come on like experts on Maab and Ebyron. And that's a good thing. We're gonna need that. But in order for us to get help from you, we gotta know how much you know. Can't get the answers you want, if you don't know the questions to ask, so to speak, you know what I mean?"
"And while you're at it, you might tell us how Maab and Ebyron are getting along these days. That, and how you think Maab thinks about all this creating creatures to attack Oshirr House stuff. I mean, how does this all appear to you?"
"If you haven't figured it out yet, I'm sorta partial to seeing Maab first. From there ... we'll see."
Appolo Sunday February 26th, 2006 11:41:40 PM
Appolo sat wuietly eating and listening.When it was time to leave he jioned the others.
Once outside he walks up to Dreana and Xenia"Don't worry Xenia.Everything will workout.I think we'll go see Maab first.If she's half what I think she is.She'll be able to help us.Plus she just might know me.I've met her before briefly though.Made her anrgy.So we'll go see her first.Then we'll go find this Fey who would be king and put him out of our misery."Appolo then calmly walks forward."Well lead the way my tall firend."
Garrett Monday February 27th, 2006 7:55:59 AM
Garrett nods agreement at Appolo's statement to see Maab first, and quietly follows along. As the group leaves, he looks back over his shoulder at Oshirr House, part of him wanting to return there. "Perhaps when this is done I shall stay here if given the choice." he thinks to himself. "Fighting side by side with Domi and Alemi against Gargul and the forces of darkness." He turns his head back toward the direction that we are heading and tries to focus his thoughts on what lay ahead, instead of that which has been left behind both at Oshirr House and back home in the frozen realm of the Ice Vein.
Syr Monday February 27th, 2006 4:30:44 PM
Syr shrugs his shoulders and moves along with the rest, "I kinda wanted to spend more time around Domi but I'll follow the prevailing wind in this case." He moves near Thora and nods a polite greeting.
A Walk in the Woods (DM JohnP) Monday February 27th, 2006 8:40:43 PM
The party moves along with their guides through the Oshirr House compound. Thora quickly moves ahead of the group, avoiding Syr's attempt to walk with her. Dreana falls into step with the party.
"How do I fit into this? Well, I came here to Oshirr House to follow up the rumors that I'd heard. You know, how Alemi and Domi had gathered a bunch of fanatical followers dedicated to the overthrow of society and the pantheon. And, what do you know? It was true! But, say hat you will, Alemi and Domi are both good guys. They tried to recruit me but I'm not into the type of dedication that they require. No, I like to go my own way. But I stuck around because there's a great story to be told here someday."
"Well, enough about me. Thora, there, she's a native of this area. I think ... we never really talked about it. All that I know is that she really knows this place. Doesn't talk much, so I talk for her. We seem to understand each other. And some people say that I talk enough for two people. Or more."
The party passes through the cleared area around the compound. Dreana continues to speak as she walks.
"Might as well talk now. Once we get further away, we'll have to move quietly. Anyway, you wanted to know about Maab and Eberyon. Thora and I, we go visit Maab sometimes. She's old, nearly as old as Eberyon, and she's got lots of stories to tell. You just have to ask her the right way sometimes and she'll start telling a story about the creation of the Wold. But she's a little ... I don't know ... unworldly, maybe. She doesn't always understand what's important to mortals. Anyway, she's nice but you don't want to make her angry."
"Eberyon? We don't go there much. He's always staring at my ...," and she gestures at her chest. "At least I think that he is. If you think Maab is a bit scattered, Eberyon is worse."
"Are they still together? Kinda in the way my Ma and Da were ... still married in name but living in separate houses. You get my drift? And sometimes Maab likes to take Eberyon down a peg, you know?"
Dreana looks forward and shrugs.
"Thora says that it's time to move quietly. We can talk later, if you want."
Anyone paying attention notices that they are retracing their route back to the cave where the entered this time and place. Since they're mainly heading downhill, the pace is a little faster than it was the day before. Strange ... it seems that far more time has passed.
Occasionally, Dreana will hold up a hand to halt the party. Then, looking ahead to where Thora is, she waves them forward. One time the two guides detour the party off the trail. When they come back on the path, they can see large footprints ... bigger than an orc, maybe ogre sized.
Finally, they turn off the main route onto a narrow trail to the south. Gradually the forest changes, becoming somehow both thicker and more tended. Thora allows the party to catch up to her. Dreana heaves a big sigh, attracting the attention of most of the male members of the party.
"Nearly there. Ummm, if you see any fey creatures, don't bother them. They might be spying on us but they will be Maab's creatures ... and maybe children, too."
Garrett Tuesday February 28th, 2006 7:58:57 AM
Garrett nods in response to Dreana's statement regarding the fey creatures and follows along behind them.
hehehe ... Xenia chuckles and shakes her head. "Ebyron too? What is it with men and boobies anyway? 'S like it takes their brains away or sump'in."
"You know, that's funny. My Ma and Da are just the opposite from yours. They're not married. But you couldn't pry them apart. You know, now you remind me of someone else. With the stories and all, you know. I think he'd like you. Well, tell you the truth, I think he'd like you a little too much. I don't think I'm gonna be introducing you two." Xenia gives the other woman a wink and a grin. "If you don't mind."
Then comes the quiet sneaky part. That's something the rogue knows. When they come through to what is most likely Maab's territory, she whispers to Dreena.
"Um, you mentioned not making Maab angry. Any topics we should avoid?"
Appolo d20+6=17 d20+9=19 Tuesday February 28th, 2006 12:00:52 PM
Appolo moves along quietly listening and watching as they make thier way to Maab.
Syr Tuesday February 28th, 2006 7:29:48 PM
As Thora moves away, Syr frowns slightly. Moving back to Xenia he mentions with a tilt of his head, "She's a strange one." He walks the rest of the way in silence occasionally glancing up toward their scout.
The Fae Queen (DM JohnP) Tuesday February 28th, 2006 10:15:02 PM
Dreana turns her head to answer Xenia's question.
The tall leather-clad woman replies, "Well, harming a fey creature would make her angry. Ahh, besides that, it's tough to say. She's a little bit changeable in her moods."
The path winds through the woods and eventually opens into a meadow. Those with sharp eyes would have noticed a variety of small fey creatures lurking in the woods. The meadow is full of wildflowers and some small winged creatures flit between them.
After climbing a small hill, a low stone building can be seen on the opposite of the meadow. Behind the house are the hills that contained the cave where the party arrived.
Thora is leading the party across to the building. As the party nears the building, a satyr looks up from the flowers that he was tending and spies the group. He runs over to Thora and the two seem to be in conversation. After a moment, Thora makes a hand gesture and Dreana nods.
"Seems that Maab is outside today. Considering the weather, it's not surprising. This should be interesting."
Thora and the satyr lead the party around the side of the house and into some trees. The path descends somewhat and people can now hear the sound of running water. After threading between some very large trees, the path enters a small glade. A waterfall falls into a small pool of clean water over sparkling stones. There is a group of fey creatures resting on the bank of the pool. Many seem to have just come from the water and are drying themselves in the sunlight.
The satyr rushes ahead and speaks to one of the women lounging on the bank. With her slightly pointed ears, she seems like a young half-elven woman. She has extremely fine, sculpted features and is possibly one of the most beautiful women that any of the party have ever seen. Even the iridescent pinkish sheen of her hair is fetching. She is carelessly garbed in a garment that hangs in loose folds, exposing rather more bare tanned skin than most of you are accustomed to seeing.
Maab, for this is who this must be, turns towards the party and smiles, brightening the entire glade.
"Welcome to my domain. Why have you come here? And where are you from?"
Her voice is musical and melodious but all of you can sense that she expects to be answered truthfully.
Garrett Wednesday March 1st, 2006 8:31:47 AM
"Oooh boy" Garrett thinks to himself, "Right into the thick of the matter. Gotta try and be careful what I say. Definitely going with the truth on this, pretty sure she'd know if I was sidestepping issues or leaving stuff out."
Garrett steps forward, doing his best to maintain eye contact, and not let his vision stray south. "Good morning. I am Garrett, and these are my friends Xenia, Appolo, Syr, Oni, and Toros." Garrett points to each of them in turn.
"We have come to speak with you, after talking to Alemi and Domi, regarding Eberyon. We would like to learn more of him, and you, and perhaps seek your advice."
"To be bluntly honest, we have been sent from the future. I am from the Southern continent of the Wold, where ice and snow cover it year round. In our time, Eberyon has just awoken from a very long sleep, and is "changing" the Wold in a very quick and violent manner. We were looking for a way to stop what was happening when we found ourselves here."
"That is the short of our story. Perhaps you could tell us about you and Eberyon, for in truth we know very little. We thought it best to speak with you, and to learn of the way things are and have been before we go to Eberyon. Though we have seen firsthand what Eberyon has done to change Gargalus's minions."
Garrett stops speaking, hoping she will respond with answers and not questions, and waits for Maab to respond, or his friends to speak their minds.
Xenia Wednesday March 1st, 2006 12:41:22 PM
Xenia breathes in the air.
"It's so beautiful here!" Even in the presence of Maab and her court, the rogue cannot help but make the exclamation. It just bubbles up within her and bursts out without really asking permission. But, it is. Really beautiful, that is. So how can saying it be that bad?
The rogue gives the little hand wave greeting when Garrett makes introductions all around.
"You know, we're kinda ... you know, concerned. Concerned about how your husband is, like, consorting with this Gargalus guy. Did you know that Gargalus is not a very nice person? I mean, I don't know what kinda contact you've had with him and all, but he's pretty mean to everyone else."
"And, you know, we just want a nice fair Wold where everyone can live and do their own thing. You know what I mean?"
Okay. Kinda rambling here.
"What do you think of Gargalus? If you don't mind me asking."
Appolo Wednesday March 1st, 2006 6:34:28 PM
Appolo just has a seat on the ground and relaxs/Continuing to let the others do the talking.
Interview with the Queen (DM JohnP) Wednesday March 1st, 2006 11:02:31 PM
Maab listens intently to Garrett's words and when he mentions coming from the future the Queen of the Fey glances at her court.
"Do not fear, my peoples would not change anything if they learn of the future. How far, exactly, have you come from? I would exercise some caution for, while my subjects are not susceptible to making changes, I might unconciously act on your words."
Thora mumbles something, maybe "Alemi told us not to listen, but it's really good story." Thora drags the taller woman away, however.
Maab continues to speak. "You say that Eberyon is making changes to the Wold of your time? Without considering what might occur? That's exactly like him, you know."
The Fey Queen motions to the grass. "Please sit and stay for a while. I can summon food and beverages if you like. Perfectly safe, of course."
"Why exactly should I tell you anything?" She looks at Xenia when she replies and nods. "You want a fair place, not subject to Eberyon and his moods. Fair enough. I know what it is like to be subject to his mercurial nature."
Queen Maab sits a little bit straighter, causing her garment to move and slide in an interesting manner. She suddenly angrily spits words out.
"King of the Fey!"
"Slaver is what he was!"
"He made me! Made me to be his concubine! His brood mare, more like it!"
She slumps down and one of the fey attendants moves closer and holds out a cup made from a giant acorn to her. The Fey Queen sips from the cup and regains her composure. As she does so, a warm smile slowly comes to her face.
"Oh, the stories that I could tell you about those days. I loved him, still do in fact. He was quite the lover ... one time he persuaded me to take the form of a fish and we swam out to a tropical island. I think he made the island, but it doesn't matter. We spent months or years there, playing in the surf and then ... but you're too young to hear those stories. Needless to say, we were both a little careless about what form we wore, so I think that's when the first mermaids and mermen were made."
"Do you know our story?"
"Eberyon is the first Creator. He made me and, with and through me, all of the fey in Feywold. Then, well, Jericho came and made the Wold. That's when I awoke and became concious, really."
The Queen pauses and plays with some grass.
"It's difficult to describe. I was alive and could think before the Wold was created, but not really ... aware. Once Jericho's creation had occurred, though, I could think about what Eberyon had done. The worst of it was that he made me without the capabilty to choose."
She looks back and forth between Xenia and Garrett.
"It's not Eberyon making these fey abominations. He's too flighty and fickle for that."
"Eberyon could do it, of course, and it's his power that used to do it. But he wouldn't have the discipline to make an abomination more than once or twice. As soon as his anger passed, he'd go off and do something else."
"You need to remember, Eberyon is the living embodiment of chaos. Disorder trails in his wake, sort of leaking away from him. When he's angry or threatened, he can summon the control to focus his power but usually he can't. And he can never focus it for long."
"If, as you say, he sleeps for a long time his power would build. Probably to the dangerous levels that you describe. Not that he really chooses to cause devastation, it just happens where ever he would travel to."
Maab stops and sip from the acorn cup again.
"Probably Gargalus somehow tricked Eberyon into putting his power into an object. Or making an object that draws on Eberyon's power. Either way, that's how Gargalus is making these fey abominations."
"What are you thinking of doing?"
Garrett Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:08:49 AM
"Well, what we are thinking of doing is the problem. We're not sure. From what you just told us, it sounds like we need to separate Gargalus from this item to start. After that, I'm not sure how we will deal with our problem with Eberyon."
"I do not know how or why Eberyon will come to sleep for ages. You say that if he sleeps for ages, his power builds while he sleeps. Do you know of any way that his power can be lessened, or caused not to grow as he sleeps? Or for that matter, can he be killed? And if so, what effect would that have upon nature?"
"Unfortunately, all we have are questions, and no answers. Your knowledge on Eberyon and the probablility that Gargalus is using an item is very helpful. Can you think of any way that we might be able to either stop Eberyon or lessen his impact upon the Wold, either in our time or now?"
Xenia Thursday March 2nd, 2006 11:09:01 AM
The girl rogue takes a seat on the grass just a bit down from Maab. She gives a little greeting smile to each one of the nearby Court girls. They're all so beautiful. But, I guess that's what you would expect from being with a goddess and all.
"Being in love is just the best feeling." Rapt in Maab's story, the words come from Xenia's mouth almost of their own accord. "But, you know, it can be the worst feeling too."
Then, with sadness, "It must be hard to be a god. I mean, being mortal, you know you don't have much time and all. And if you want to get the best from life, you gotta make things work or you know in your heart you'll lose them. It's like your ability to chose, you know. But we gotta be thinking about what we need to chose all the time."
"And, you know, I think it makes us ... you know, compromise more. Be more aware of each other. So we can be together. We try to have, you know, reach mutual respect. Because we have to."
"I guess what I'm trying to say, Your Highness Maab, is that we got our problems, and we got our mission, and I think that we can probs fix most of it by snatching whatever power thingy Gargalus is using and then taking it back to our time. I mean, it's, like, a power object that someone could maybe use to fix stuff, right."
"But I think your so beautiful and your story is so, like, beautiful and lonely at the same time. I wanna help you to make Ebyron see what he's got in you, and that life is so much not better without you that he shouldn't be taking it for granted."
Xenia sighs.
"You know, sometimes men can be so dumb."
Xenia Thursday March 2nd, 2006 11:09:01 AM
The girl rogue takes a seat on the grass just a bit down from Maab. She gives a little greeting smile to each one of the nearby Court girls. They're all so beautiful. But, I guess that's what you would expect from being with a goddess and all.
"Being in love is just the best feeling." Rapt in Maab's story, the words come from Xenia's mouth almost of their own accord. "But, you know, it can be the worst feeling too."
Then, with sadness, "It must be hard to be a god. I mean, being mortal, you know you don't have much time and all. And if you want to get the best from life, you gotta make things work or you know in your heart you'll lose them. It's like your ability to chose, you know. But we gotta be thinking about what we need to chose all the time."
"And, you know, I think it makes us ... you know, compromise more. Be more aware of each other. So we can be together. We try to have, you know, reach mutual respect. Because we have to."
"I guess what I'm trying to say, Your Highness Maab, is that we got our problems, and we got our mission, and I think that we can probs fix most of it by snatching whatever power thingy Gargalus is using and then taking it back to our time. I mean, it's, like, a power object that someone could maybe use to fix stuff, right."
"But I think your so beautiful and your story is so, like, beautiful and lonely at the same time. I wanna help you to make Ebyron see what he's got in you, and that life is so much not better without you that he shouldn't be taking it for granted."
Xenia sighs.
"You know, sometimes men can be so dumb."
Maab's Response (DM JohnP) Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:58:23 PM
Maab thinks for a minute or so before replying to Garrett's questions.
"The item that Gargalus has made, it somehow taps or siphons Eberyon's power. So that might prevent or reduce the power that would accumulate as he slept."
When Garrett mentions killing Eberyon, Maab's expression turns stony and she scowls at the Protector.
"Kill him? Why would you want to kill my lover?" My folk tell me that they don't like whatever powers your spells. Should I put you to sleep? Or just kill you?"
"I could see putting Eberyon to sleep, somehow. I think that I would like that."
Maab dips her hand into the water of the pool and stirs it for a moment.
"How much did Alemi tell you of what he wants to do? Did Domi mention that he wants to take Alemi's place? If either of them could tap Eberyon's power, maybe they could accomplish what they want to do."
Maab's Response (DM JohnP) Thursday March 2nd, 2006 9:58:23 PM
Maab thinks for a minute or so before replying to Garrett's questions.
"The item that Gargalus has made, it somehow taps or siphons Eberyon's power. So that might prevent or reduce the power that would accumulate as he slept."
When Garrett mentions killing Eberyon, Maab's expression turns stony and she scowls at the Protector.
"Kill him? Why would you want to kill my lover?" My folk tell me that they don't like whatever powers your spells. Should I put you to sleep? Or just kill you?"
"I could see putting Eberyon to sleep, somehow. I think that I would like that."
Maab dips her hand into the water of the pool and stirs it for a moment.
"How much did Alemi tell you of what he wants to do? Did Domi mention that he wants to take Alemi's place? If either of them could tap Eberyon's power, maybe they could accomplish what they want to do."
Garrett Friday March 3rd, 2006 8:05:34 AM
"Alemi mentioned something about what he plans to do, but Domi has not said much at all. Alemi does most of the talking. But it would seem that this item may be powerful enough to help them. And us. How does Domi plan on replacing Alemi?"
"I don't suppose Gargalus has left it just laying around somewhere unguarded? Do you have any idea what it looks like, or how we will know it for what it is?"
After the conversation ends here, Garrett will suggest we return to Oshirr house and speak with Domi and Alemi, and make plans for a raid upon Gargalus.
Garrett Friday March 3rd, 2006 8:05:34 AM
"Alemi mentioned something about what he plans to do, but Domi has not said much at all. Alemi does most of the talking. But it would seem that this item may be powerful enough to help them. And us. How does Domi plan on replacing Alemi?"
"I don't suppose Gargalus has left it just laying around somewhere unguarded? Do you have any idea what it looks like, or how we will know it for what it is?"
After the conversation ends here, Garrett will suggest we return to Oshirr house and speak with Domi and Alemi, and make plans for a raid upon Gargalus.
Xenia Friday March 3rd, 2006 9:11:58 AM
The girl rogue watches the eyes of the goddess.
"I could see putting Ebyron to sleep, somehow. I think that I would like that."
Um, like, yeah. Flip flop. Minds change. Looks to Xenia like this couple has maybe some really intense issues. She quiets down real quick. Looking down at her hands, then, from the corners of her eyes, she takes in the setup around them again. Maybe this place ain't as beautiful as it seems. Underneath.
Appolo d20+9=29 d20+6=21 Friday March 3rd, 2006 2:59:48 PM
Apppolo continues to quietly relax.He just sits on the ground,watching and listening.Paying close attention to his surroundings.
Spot 29,Listen 21
Maab's Response (DM JohnP) Friday March 3rd, 2006 10:11:11 PM
The Queen of the Fey is a little lost in thought after Garrett asks his questions. After sitting quietly for a while, Maab responds to his questions.
"I don't know what Domi is really planning. As you say, he might tell you if you ask him directly."
"As for the thing that Gargalus has crafted, I have no idea what it may look like. Gargalus is probably relying on his guards to protect the device."
"Is there anything else that you would like to ask?"
"I've been thinking of what it would be like without Eberyon. I might be lonely, I think. But I'd be able to me my own self, not simply his creation and subject."
"If you have nothing further to ask, I will have your guides summoned and you can depart. Are you sure that you do not want something to eat or drink?"
Garrett Sunday March 5th, 2006 8:03:00 AM
Garrett looks to the rest of the group, and unless someone says something, then Garrett says "I think we are ready, thenk you Maab."
Xenia Sunday March 5th, 2006 10:27:14 PM
No cream. But I bet they have strawberries!
The girl rogue is just *this* close to speaking up. Then she recalls the story Wynn told once, of this guy who went down to Gargul's place to get back his dead wife. After fighting his way through all sorts of pretty neat stuff, he finally arrives. And he's got the stones to stand up to Gargul and say, Gimme back my wife or I'm gonna smash you one good. And Gargul, not really being scared, but being kinda sorta impressed by the guy's bravery and his love for his wife, says, Yeah. Sure. Fine.
So they go to find her in the place she's living in the land of the dead. And Gargul says, Alright, so leave already. But they can't. Turns out, the wife has eaten the food they got down there. And, once you eat the food ... you can't leave anymore. Which is something maybe Gargul didn't know, 'cause who thinks about something as simple as that.
The guy, he runs off. He's really angry and he's really, like, upset. He runs out to find some monsters and starts chopping them up. But, you know, he picks too many monsters and they kill him. That's how he dies and winds up with his wife anyway.
Kinda sad. And kinda weird at the same time.
But the whole idea of eating the food and all. Xenia looks into Maab's eyes.
"Um, yeah. What Garrett said." Is the only reply she gives.
Leaving the Queen's Presence (DM JohnP) Monday March 6th, 2006 9:43:17 PM
With both Garrett and Xenia indicating that they have no further questions, Maab gestures to one of her courtiers. She instructs the satyrs to take the party to where their guides, Dreana and Thora, are waiting. With that, she stands and turns away from the party before gesturing to some courtiers that they should enter the pool. If any of the party turn to look back, they will see Maab casually dropping her garment before wading into the pool. The satyr is moving ahead of the party at a quick pace so no one has time to linger and see more.
The satyr leads the party back to the stone building and around to the side where they approached. Dreana and Thora are sitting there on the grass, surrounded by forest and meadow animals. When the party comes around the corner of the building, the animals all turn to look at them before running off into the grass or towards the forest.
Dreana and Thora both stand up. Thora simply gives her clothing a shake to dislodge any leaves or material, while Dreana runs both hands over her leather garments to straighten and smooth them. The tall, leather-clad woman turns to the party.
"So, found all you can? Did Maab share some stories about her and Eberyon? She's really old, like I said before, but she's ... immortal, I guess. She's smart and knows a lot about the Wold, but sometimes she's like ... twelve ... when it comes to Eberyon. My little sister was like that, mooning over a boy one minute and then plotting how to get back at him the next."
"so, where do you want to go to now?"
Garrett Tuesday March 7th, 2006 7:54:44 AM
"I think it would be best to return to Oshirr house at this time. We should speak with Alemi before heading after Garagalus and this item of his."
Garrett looks around and waits to see if anyone has a better thought.
A minor pout tugs at the lips of the girl rogue when all the cute little animals run off. Might be kinda nice to live here. If you could learn to get along with little animals like Dreana and Thora. Better than the Crying Woods by a long shot.
But ... living without Wynn wouldn't be much good. *sigh*
"Yeah. Oshirr House. Didn't you want to talk to Domi? About that replacement thing?"
Appolo Tuesday March 7th, 2006 11:48:16 AM
Appolo gets up and looks slightly disappointed as rejions the others"You know this was a waste of time.She didn't tell us anything we already didn't know or couldn't have guessed on our own.Come on let's go find gargulus,.You know what his is don't you a lovers spat.Immortal beings behaving like spoiled children."
Return to Oshirr House (DM JohnP) Tuesday March 7th, 2006 9:04:33 PM
When Garrett and Xenia suggest returning to Oshirr House, Thora starts walking away to assume her position in front of the party. Dreana nods happily.
"Well, it's been a nice day for a walk. It was nice to sit down with the animals here, they tell really good stories. Everyone overlooks the small animals so they hear and see lots of things. And their own lives are pretty dramatic, too. When we get back, it will be time for supper. Did you eat with Maab? Her people make really good food, I'm told, but sometimes they like to play tricks. So it might have been best that you didn't."
Dreana keeps up her monologue as the party crosses the meadow before the stone building where Maab lives. As they approach the trees, Thora gestures again and Dreana lapses into silence.
The rest of the trip passes in silence. As before, Thora stops several times and detours on the trails. Presumably it is to avoid patrols of some kind but the party never sees any sign of them.
The sun is getting close to the trees when the party nears Oshirr House. Dreana starts talking again as they get close.
"Probably no attack tonight. Or, if there is, only a probing attack to keep us on our toes and prevent a good night's sleep. That's what Gargalus will probably do. Anyway, we'll take you back to see Alemi and Domi. But it was Domi that you wanted to see, wasn't it?"
As they near the gates into the compound, students who are working in the grounds stand and wave to the party. It seems to be common knowledge among the students that the party helped defend the compound last night.
After they pass through the gate, the party sees Domi leading a group of students through a series of exercises on the manicured lawn. It looks like a mixture of unarmed combat training and calisthenics. Thora has disappeared someplace so Dreana leads them up to the class.
"I'll leave you here. Look Thora and I up if you want guides again. Or if you want to tell me your mysterious story. I'd love to hear it."
Domi glances in the direction of the party but continues to teach the students. It is several minutes before Domi concludes and dismisses the students. He wipes his face with a towel and walks over to the party.
"You wanted to speak with me?"
Garrett Wednesday March 8th, 2006 8:13:29 PM
Responding to Domi. "Uh, yes. We have finished talking to Maab and have a few questions. perhaps it would be best if we went somewhere a litlle more private."
Garrett waits until Domi leads them somewhere a little more private. Maab has said that it's likely Eberyon has placed part of his power into an item, and given it to Gargalus. That is how he makes his creatures more powerful. She also mentioned that you plan to replace Alemi. I was a bit curious on that, because I didn't get the impression that Alemi was going anywhere."
Garrett waits for a response.
DM Announcement Wednesday March 8th, 2006 9:50:59 PM
Waiting for more posts.
Appolo Thursday March 9th, 2006 3:37:48 AM
Appolo let's Garret go speaks with Domi.He heads over to the building where they had breakfast and asks if he can get something to eat and drink.
Xenia d20+2=4 Thursday March 9th, 2006 11:05:08 AM
With Garrett talking to the Domi guy (This guy turns into a god?), Xenia sits out of the way and just sorta ... watches.
Still, it's just kinda hard to believe that Domi could be meaning anything bad for Alemi. It would mean that everything they know in their time is wrong, for Star's sake!
"And, um, we also know you're a really good fighter and all, um, Domi. And we were wondering if you've ever fought Gargal ... us ... Gargalus. And, as that's where we figure we gotta go, we were wondering if you had some pointers for us on how to handle him if he gets all attacking and stuff, you know?"
Rolls and Actions Sense Motive 4
Domi's Response (DM JohnP) Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:33:05 PM
When Garrett suggests going somewhere more private, Domi motions towards the west wall.
"Please, let's go up there where we can see the afternoon light on the trees."
Garrett and Xenia trail after the former servant to Alemi. [b]Appolo[b] excuses himself and goes looking for some food. He finds the dining hall and goes inside. Several students are preparing food for the evening meal inside. That meal isn't ready, but they direct Appolo to a table where bread and baked goods lay beside pots of preserves. A tureen of soup steams gently away at the rear of the table.
Once the others are on top of the wall with Domi, he leans against a crenellation. He hears out the rest of Garrett's information and questions.
"Hmmm," and the first monk strokes his chin in thought. "I didn't think Eberyon made the item. I would think that making such an item require too much planning ... or forethought ... for Eberyon to do on his own."
He turns and looks out over the forest beyond the cleared area around Oshirr House.
"Gargalus though. He might have tricked Eberyon into making it. That's his style, more like. Not direct, but sneaking and roundabout."
Domi turns to face Xenia.
"I can see why you ask that. Forewarned is forearmed, as I say. I've never fought Gargalus directly. He's more likely to send his minions, like he did last night, than to act himself. Expect that his encampment is guarded by fey-things like attacked last night. You here," pointing at Garrett, "seem to have some sort of power over fey."
"Alemi has fought him and Gargalus is, among other things, a powerful mage."
He turns and leans against the crenellation for a minute or two before answering the final part of Garrett's questions.
"My master has been trying for a long time to contact The Jericho. Doing so both requires great power and strength of will. Singleminded will. And Alemi has too much," motioning towards all of Oshirr House, "on his mind to achieve that."
"My studies of motion and balance for fighting have taught me how to empty my mind of everything but my opponent. I think ... I hope ... that I could do the same in this task."
Domi looks at both Xenia and Garrett before continuing.
"Stay here tonight. There is unlikely to be an attack tonight. Where do you plan to go tomorrow?"
Toros Friday March 10th, 2006 10:48:16 AM
After all these being told Toros is in the edge of not being able to determine which is real and which is not. At least he hopes that tonight will be without incident as Domi thinks.
OOC: Finally I can post, after such long time without Wold, because of a three-week trip! Hope you are all well, and I have not missed much, except that I have missed Wold...
Garrett Friday March 10th, 2006 11:09:42 AM
Responding to Domi, "Yes, I think staying here the night would be best, thank you. We have not discussed it yet, but i would think that tommorow we will go after this item that Gargalus may have. It sounds like the only thing that could help us in our mission."
Garrett pauses for a moment, and then looks at Domi. "She also said that if you or Alemi used this item to tap Eberyon's power when you try to contact Jericho, it may give you a better chance of success."
Appolo Friday March 10th, 2006 12:01:02 PM
Appolo thanks the students and takes a seat.He eats quietly and relaxes.He seems to be wuite calm and at ease.Which in fact he is.
Xenia Friday March 10th, 2006 12:25:05 PM
" ... " The rogue opens her mouth to speak. Then she closes it, her brows knit in thought.
" ... " Open. Close.
" ... " Open. Close.
" ... " Open. Close.
" ... You know ... " she ventures, this time letting the idea come up and out. " ... seems to me like if Ebyron was tricked into giving Gargalus this power, that he might be kinda sorta angry if he was to find out that he was tricked. You know what I mean?"
"I'm thinking that if Ebyron was, you know, sorta ticked at Gargalus, that we could maybe get some sorta advantage over things. Maybe a distraction while Ebyron and Gargalus yell at each other. Or maybe Ebyron would pull all his Fey guys out of there."
"I know we were pretty set on going straight to Gargalus, but either one of those things would really help when we go in and try to snatch this Magic Power Thing."
"It, er, might really help to know what it looks like. And, 'side from Gargalus, I think Ebyron is probs the only other person we know who might know what it is."
Domi Responds (DM JohnP) Friday March 10th, 2006 9:53:03 PM
The primal monk looks back and forth between the party members.
"Staying here tonight is for the best. As I said, they shouldn't attack tonight. If you to Gargalus' encampment, it's about half a day to the east, the opposite direction of Maab's home. If you noticed, many of his creations are most active and effective at night."
When Garrett mentions Maab's information about the item, Domi looks thougthful for a moment and then tries to keep a smile from his face.
"Yes, retrieving this item would assist us. Alemi and I."
Then he turns to Xenia and listens to her comments. A smile crosses his face when she suggests that Eberyon may be angry.
"Eberyon angry? You haven't met him yet, have you? I doubt that he could stay angry without a string tied around his finger to remind him. He's very ... undisciplined."
"Still, if you speak with him he might help. Or not, depending on whether he remembered. It takes a lot to keep his attention."
"The house you stayed in last night is still available. Feel free to join all of us for the evening meal tonight. I believe one of your party has already done so.
Then the turns to where the liontaur sits.
"So, in the time you come from, your kind are considered part of society? Did something happen to change your people from the ways that they follow now?"
While Domi speaks to Toros, everyone else can go off to rest or prepare for the evening meal.
Toros Sunday March 12th, 2006 7:09:02 AM
Toros smiles to the comment of Domi, trying not to show his fangs.
"Well, actually, I guess you would be surprised to hear that my comrades and I were chosen by you to unite the different taur races. In fact, we do not have much problem with the other races but struggle to get along well with each other. Centaurs and Minotaurs do not much like each other, while the wemics that live inlands have almost become a different race, compared to the ones that live on the shore and sail overseas. This is of course related to the assaults of the hellhounds to our lands..."
Toros justs takes a break to see whether what he tells to his future god makes any sense now... What should he tell and not tell - there are things that should be lived and experienced but not told, right?
Garrett Sunday March 12th, 2006 1:28:41 PM
Garrett eats and relaxes for the evening, preparing to begin another long day tommorow.
Once we are all alone, Garrett broaches the idea of what to do next.
"Going to Eberyon first could help us, but it could also hurt us. We will need to keep this item that Gargalus has. What if Eberyon wants it back once we remind him? I'm of the inclination to let that sleeping dog lie, and deal with the only one problem that we know we will face."
"It is my thinking that in this past, we came here before. We recovered the item that Garagalus has and let Domi and Alemi use it to contact Jericho, which set things on the path to make our present as it is. We will need to keep the item after they use it, so that in our time we may retard the power growth of Eberyon, and perhaps use it to slow him down once he does awaken."
Xenia Sunday March 12th, 2006 10:51:13 PM
The dark rogue sighs.
"I think you're right, Gar. If I figure Ebyron for the kind of guy folks say he is, ain't gonna do any good talking go him."
"Poor Maab." Xenia sighs again. "Then again ... Maybe they were meant for each other."
"How does a guy like that get to be a god?" The rogue throws up her hand. "I mean, who gives that much power to a colossal flake? Just goes to show how the Wold isn't fair."
Finally she winds down and sits with her arms wrapped around her knees.
"Alright, so we go with Dreana and Thora to find Gargalus tomorrow. I still don't know how we're gonna find this magic thingie. We don't even know where it is or what it looks like. I mean, if it's just used for making the fey critters, there's no guarantee it will be on Gargalus."
Evening Time (DM JohnP) Monday March 13th, 2006 9:37:08 PM Toros sits and discusses things with Domi. He doesn't get very far into the conversation before the future god holds up his hands and halts the liontaur.
"I did this? Please, don't tell me too much of the future."
Then Domi stops and looks back at Toros. "I thought that you and your companions came from far in the future. How would I ..."
The monk runs his hands through his hair. "Please, don't tell me any more. You should rejoin your companions."
Domi moves to descend from the wall on the nearby steps, motioning for Toros to accompany him.
After the evening meal, Garrett and Xenia return to the small house that stayed in the previous night. Appolo is there ahead of them, already prepared for a restful night. Toros joins them soon afterwards.
Together, they seem to have come to a conclusion about how to proceed. In the morning, they will head out to Gargalus' lair. From what they have heard, they can expect more of the fey-creatures that they fought the night before. And who knows what else they might find inside the lair of the greatest villain that Alemi fought against?
The morning dawns still and calm. Wisps of mist hang over the trees in the valley as the sun slowly warms the air. While the day may eventually get hot, it's still cool and comfortable.
The party starts preparing to depart after a breakfast of baked goods, fruit and preserves. Everyone is still buckling on their weapons and packs when Thora and Dreana walk up. Thora hangs back while Dreana walks up to the party.
"Where to today? Do you want Thora and I to guide you again?"
Appolo Tuesday March 14th, 2006 10:36:33 AM
Appolo awakes bathes cleans up and gets ready.He i fully prepared to leave when thier guides arrive."I'm ready to go."
Xenia Tuesday March 14th, 2006 1:07:12 PM
"Yo! Morning." Mouth full of hot steaming muffin, Xenia raises a hand and wiggles her fingers in greeting.
"I think, yeah." Yum, this stuff tastes so fresh. "We need to go see the G-man, if you know what I mean. Or, maybe, pay him a visit without him seeing us is a better way to put it."
"That's right. Right?" And Xenia turns to Garrett.
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