The Spell (ADM MikeK) Wednesday March 8th, 2006 8:16:46 PM
Rayla gives a curt nod.
"Unwrap the body, and place it on the ground," she instructs.
The woman waves her hands in an intricate motion and begins an incantation. It is almost melodious...
Spellcraft DC 22 Highlight to display spoiler: {She is indeed casting Resurrection}.
Minutes pass, the incantation continues.
A billowy cloud rises from the earth, white and wispy. It envelopes the entire group, obscuring vision.
And then falls away......
OOC - Please do not post until the guest DM posts
GARGUL (guest DM) Wednesday March 8th, 2006 10:07:50 PM
The mist becomes black and dark and moist. Your senses are taken away and then suddenly you find yourself standing on the rippling glassy surface of a great ocean. The waves rising and falling under your feet. Looking down you can see great swimming creatures there under your feet. Some beautiful, in amazing colors. Others fiercely dangerous with razors and teeth, perfect killers. All the life swimming below the oceans surface and all of it open to your eyes. You find by simply looking you can even see the battle of the microscopic life battling for beauty and dominance. All of it there for you to observe. Squatting down you feel the water, and your fingers go right through the surface. Beautiful florescent rainbow fish come swimming up to nibble painlessly at your fingertips looking for a hand out. A soft cough behind you brings you all to your senses. Turning is the smallest but most beautiful woman you have ever seen. She is not gnomish, or dwarfish. her race seems to be undeterminable. It is clear she is an adult woman, scantly clad in a flowing gown that seems to move over her body like water. She bows deeply and smiles, showing of a dazzling smile and deep cleavage. She places her dainty fingers in the water and swirls them beside her feet and rising from the water suddenly is her perfect match in masculine beauty. Coming up from the waters surface, dry and beautiful her smiles and bows as well. Taking the ladies hand he kisses her tenderly and in a voice deep and booming for his size he whispers sweet thoughts and love to her, then turning to you all, his dark eyes sparkling, he speaks.
"Welcome to my lords domain, why do you trespass here, what is your business?"
Tishe' and Stripes Thursday March 9th, 2006 4:33:06 AM
Unable to speak, Tishe' but nods dumbly at Trellus to make a pact with the Barons to restore Ulgren. The spell is cast, and the brown-eyed girl prepares to arrive in the large chamber before Gargul.
The ocean and its beauty and dangerous creatures takes her by surprise. "Where is the palace?" she wonders aloud.
And then comes the woman. And the man. And the question.
"Your lords domain? I'm sorry, we didn't mean to. We were trying to get to Gargul and plead for the return of our companion. The witch who cast the spell must have tricked us!" Tishe's eyes burn with a hot hatred of the Barons, yet her shoulders slouch in despair. "We just need to get Ulgren back", she says despondently.
Jake Thursday March 9th, 2006 6:19:09 AM
At first, Jake is amazed by the mysterious ethereal ocean and tempted to try to dig out some string and try a skill he'd heard of only in books, something called fishing... The diea of which stuck in his head and for one second almost overwhelms him with its absurdity. Go after these little morsels of food in so much water? Crazy. Then the lady comes in. Awesome. Jake drinks her in and his eyes light up. He's wanting to ask her her name, when a man, obviously her man, comes in and interrupts it all. And, Jake begrudges, the guy's got the looks down, to deserve such a woman. Oh well...
Trellus d20+9=20 Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:56:15 AM
Trellus looks on with some trepedation as Rayla casts her spell. He doesn't know what she's doing [Spellcraft 20], but he isn't about to tell anybody that.
So now, when they appear over this ocean instead of by that sunbaked river like last time, the man gets just a little worried. The tiny woman is gorgeous, and her companion as well. But, like Tishe says, this seems to be the wrong place.
Trellus decides to bluff it out.
"Many shadows," he politely greets the two. "We are come to plead with Lord Gargul for the return of a packmate. Would you help us, please?"
Anuk Thursday March 9th, 2006 12:55:40 PM
Taken aback by the entrance to Gargul's realm being different, Anuk responds to the woman's question. "Uh...um...I...well, that is...we...uh...what Trellus said," he finishes feebly.
Grymash d20+4=23 Thursday March 9th, 2006 7:25:12 PM
Grymash goes slack jawed! All this is too much for him to take in all at once. So much so that he forgets to breathe, not until his own body instinctively takes over the task. Questions finally overpower his shock. "How dis be? Dis no be da realm of Lord Gargul. Where be da river of blood? All blood flows ta Gargul! Gry think weez somewheres different! Wheres weez be, pretty lady?" Eyes still wide with wonder, Grymash continues soaking in all his surroundings.
(Knowledge Religion: 23, to guess where he is.)
Gilan and Ciaran d20+13=17 Thursday March 9th, 2006 8:19:41 PM
Gilan watches the spell as it is cast, using his own knowledge to make sure that she is casting the right one[spellcraft 17].
When he arrives into this area of water and creatures he cannot resist the urge to dip his own hand into the water. It is only a few seconds later that he notices the lady that is soon doing the same. He knows that he has that same idiot look upon his face but he cannot help it. Then the man appears, obviously her mate and he forgets all about the woman for now.
"As the others said...we seek Gargul to petition for a friends life...can either of you help?" He seems to be at as much of a loss as the others but he wonders if this time they are in the actual Lands of Rest. "Is this the Lands of Rest...where the dead come?"
Ciaran has his own tail tucked as magic is not too welcome in his opinion...well this kind anyways. He stays close to his human so that he does not get lost or hurt.
Flea Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:17:49 PM
Flea's eyes are peeled as her brain registers all that is new and fascinating. Her first reaction is to hide behind the bigger folk, but when she sees that there are only handsome little folk she relaxes. The rogue smiles shyly at the little people, wondering who they might be. Taking a step forward, Flea asks, "can you two help us get our friend back to us? His soul has started a trip to the Shadow Lands, but we need him with us."
Mac Thursday March 9th, 2006 10:43:02 PM
Whether he is tongue-tied or still taking in this place and these people, Mac remains quiet and nods in agreement.
GARGUL (guest DM) Friday March 10th, 2006 4:47:24 AM
The little man smiles at all of you and again leans over and kisses the little woman on the lips lightly and lovingly. Then she sinks suddenly beneath the waves. The little man turns and looks at you all. The smile disappears from his face.
"You are in the realm of Gargul, but then what place is there that is not the realm of my lord? He is the power of death and wherever death is there is also life, one and the same. Life and death. Too often do you mortals come before him pleading this or that concerned with only your tiny existence, your tiny comprehension of what you address, what you anger, or please every time you face HIM. Soon he will ask you why you are here and why he should grant you what you seek. He will ask what is there for him to gain by granting it? Prepare yourselves; prepare your answers for he will soon arrive."
The little man then turns his back on you and stares out at the great sea as if expecting . . . something.
Tishe' and Stripes Friday March 10th, 2006 9:17:01 AM
The plain-faced woman's thoughts suddenly come into focus at the power and directness of the beautiful man. Life and Death. Gargul is lord of both. So often, she only thinks about the death side. And why should the god give them thier gift? What have they done to deserve it?
"Nothing", whispers Tishe', all the anger draining out of her. "I've done nothing worthy of an audience with a god." Her eyes are wide, fearful, and briming with tears. "So many come to Gargul, to plead, to demand, to promise anything for a loved one. What makes us so different?"
Mac (Sub/Al) Friday March 10th, 2006 10:35:00 AM
From the tower of his natural height, Mac's eyes follow the gaze of the little man. The sound of his own hooves as they take two involuntary steps backwards, brings home to the minotaur the enormity of the things that unfold around him.
Jake Friday March 10th, 2006 4:19:35 PM
Jake listens to the guy and ponders his words. They're not right, he thinks to himself. There's stuff other than life and death. Like sand. That stuffs not alive, or dead. And, um, the color red. Or love. Lots of stuff.
Trellus Friday March 10th, 2006 5:04:25 PM
Trellus swallows reflexively. This is Gargul's domain alright. And the little dude is asking the very questions the cleric asked himself the last time they were here...well not really HERE, but, you know, Gargul's...oh forget it...
Gargul doesn't gain a thing by this. Trellus knows it, the little dude knows it, and Gargul truly knows it. They ask because they must, and pray for the best.
Trellus swallows again. And waits.
Gilan and Ciaran Friday March 10th, 2006 9:30:55 PM
Gilan listens and then pales as he gets some of what is being asked. Do they really deserve what they ask anymore than anyone else that asks for a love one back...a little child. He lays a hand upon Tel's shoulder and squeezes it. "He has a point...we do too often ask for things that we do not need...for things that should be left the way they are." He looks around at the others as he sighs himself.
"There is a bigger picture on the Plains that we must address and we all know that. I do not think we can do this alone...we will need Ulgren's help." He hopes that he is getting them on the right track and that Gargul will not seem their troubles in the Wold trivial. "If the Oglian are back on the Plains we must stop them or we will be cattle like some of our ancesters. If what the history and myths say is true than we are nothing to them but slaves and food...little more than cattle to be used." He shakes his head as there is something there that he cannot get too. "I know that we will need Ulgren to accomplish this...we are Bloodpack and we must stand together...even if that means giving something to Gargul or doing something for him that seems impossible." He cannot get his words to come out better but he figures that the others will understand.
Ciaran is now laying down and watching with interest but little concern. He does not understand this at all but he does wonder what happened to the village...he had been thinking of food.
GARGUL (guest DM) Saturday March 11th, 2006 2:01:09 PM
The little man staring off out over the ocean does not turn but address the party, answering a question no on heard.
"Why isn't sand part of life and death? What is it but the destruction and death of a rock, and the creation or birth of a desert or a beach? What of love is it not the birth of a relationship, does it not make you feel free and alive, and when it is gone, there not anything else that makes you wish for death is there not?"
Then the silence drags on for what seems like an eternity until suddenly in a deep and reverent voice that booms but is hushed at the same time, the little man says.
"Gargul comes"
HE (gargul) Saturday March 11th, 2006 2:17:22 PM
Nothing happens for a long long time, and then suddenly the surface of the sea breaks and a large black spike begins to rise. No not a spike, a black fin. Black as night, black as onyx, black so beautiful it breaks your heart. The fin continues to rise and rise and rise when finally the back of the great fish breaks the surface. Water sluices from its great back in waves and it is difficult to keep your feet as the waves wash from it. More and more of the beautiful black fish is reveled until it rises to tower over you. Reveling itself to be a jet black catfish with white eyes. Cloudy mist rolls over them, making shapes in them, but never revealing a pupil. The catfish rests on the surface of the water. Its mouth so large it could swallow your group and 5 more just like you in a single gulp and still have room for a Rapke or five. Water glistens off its scales like stars until you realize that it is not water. It is stars. There reflected in the scales of the great fish are all the stars of the universe. The great fish's tail gently rocking back and forth creates silent tidal waves off to each side. It is the most beautiful creature any of you have ever laid eyes on, if it was not for the disturbing eyes. Suddenly they clear as well. Living completely black pools, a swirling universe in each one. Then the voice. Issuing from within your mind. A voice that you would choose never to hear, but will miss forever when it is gone.
"WHO DISTURBS ME, TO WHAT PURPOSE DO YOU REQUEST AUDIENCE"
It strikes you to your heart then. This is a god before you. Not a monster, not a creature, not a mortal. This is a god. You, a group of small mortals, specks to that which is before you just used all your power to summon up the presence of a deity to try and make a demand. What foolishness is this.
(Will checks of 35 to not be visibly afraid)
Flea d20+3=16 Sunday March 12th, 2006 4:13:09 PM
The smile on the gnome's face disappears when the little guy turns his back on the pack and makes his pronouncements.
What of love...and when it is gone, is there anything else that makes you wish for death?"
The rogue's lower lip starts to tremble, and her eyes sting as she fights back the tears, and the remembrance of her fur clad companion making his way in the desolate land of ice and snow. "Bohdhi..." she sighs, "I miss you so!"
The waters part and a great creature, black and glistening like the night sky comes towards the pack. There is something omniscient about the great fish, and the rogue becomes fearful of what is to come next. She drops her pack, and falls to her knees, her eyes cast downwards, unable to look into those terrible eyes. (Will=16, fail)
Anuk d20+4=7 Sunday March 12th, 2006 9:04:06 PM
Anuk stands mutely, pondering the questions of the little creature when the profound presence that is Gargul rises from the water.
A feeling of devout obedience overwhelms him like gravity, and he prostrates himself before the Lord of Death (will save 7). Staring only at the ground he answers the summons as best he can. "We...we need Ulgren. He is more than a friend, he is bloodpack. We are not bloodpack without him." Cheap words, but he hopes the god can sense the feelings in his heart. But even they betray him as he finds himself suddenly thinking of Milo, friend and member of the pack who made the final journey and did not return.
Mac (Sub/Al) d20+3=23 Sunday March 12th, 2006 11:26:28 PM
He hears the fear in the clatter of his own hoofbeats, but the thick muscles in his neck work of their own accord, shaking his massive head from side to side and tossing the rack of curved and polished horns.
A snort comes from Mac's nostrils, and the hesitant tattoo of his steps become an even and solid drum beat of courage. Mac strides up, to stand at the side of Trellus. Whatever he decides, no matter what words he says, the minotaur will be there to back it up.
Rolls and Actions Will Save 23 (Nat 20)
Tishe' and Stripes d20+7=10 Monday March 13th, 2006 4:15:20 AM
The brown-eyed girl is momentarily heartened by Gilan, "the bigger picture", she whispers.
And then the great, the majestic, the awe inspiring vision of the body of the fish and all it implies arrives. Tishe' at once feels the soaring of her heart and the sinking of her heart. Sweat glows upon her forehead and upper lip, eyes wide, and a fear that she longs for is etched upon her plain face.
"D-D-d-dark One...", she begins and must lick her lips to try again. "Ulgren..." And again her mouth goes dry, with not even a thought for the hi-eena hiding behind her.
Trellus d20+11=25 Monday March 13th, 2006 10:06:23 AM
[Will 25]
The fin of the giant fish rises higher and higher, and Trellus feels a lead weight forming in his stomach. This is so not gonna be like last time.
And then Gargul manifests himself. His presence is too much, even for the young man who prides himself on never showing fear. Like a rock, Trellus collapses to one knee - Domi protect me . The prayer is automatic and unbidden. Was it said aloud? Even Trellus couldn't tell you.
The cleric feels Mac's presense at his side, but cannot acknowledge his packmate. Head bowed, he tries to compose some possible response to the Lord of Death.
"L-Lord G-G-Gargul," he greets the god, trembling with fright. "We are the Bloodpack. We...we come to ask for our packmate."
It is pathetic, but its all he can say.
Grymash d20+6=23 Monday March 13th, 2006 7:56:05 PM "Lord Gargul .... Master!" The big, trembling half-orc drops to his knees and takes up a position of worship, reverence, and submission. "It be Grymash, yooz most faithfully servant. Please forgives Gry for takin' Gargul aways from divine works dat Gargul do. Grymash bows to da will of Gargul, Master of all dat be livin an dead! Master of Grymash."
(Will save 23)
Jake Monday March 13th, 2006 8:08:21 PM
Jake falls to his knee like the others, uncertain abruptyl why he's here. Or why Gargul's here. What did they give the god last time? He can't even remember. And here we are, again, asking for something... what if we still owe him from last time? Bad news..
Gilan and Ciaran d20+14=32 Monday March 13th, 2006 11:39:56 PM
Gilan had been thinking on the things that the little man has said and he will have to agree. Then there is the rising of a black fin from the water, leading to so much more. As he stares into the star filled eye he feels nothing but then the eye becomes just that.
He feels the intense weight of something larger than himself as he drops to a knee before the Lord of the Dead. As the others try thier own words he does not have courage to say much but one word. "Need." In his mind he knows that they will need Ulgren to defend the Plains against this new threat from the past. They fight something or go to fight something that will throw them into chains just as fast as any slaver...but they will be a source of food as well...little more than cattle. How can he explain this to a God...would he find this a petty matter...did he just pee himself?
Ciaran lays upon the ground and then rolls onto his stomach. His neck is exposed as one would do to a superior of another pack when you enter his territory. Your life now hangs in their hands.
HE (gargul) Tuesday March 14th, 2006 1:29:28 AM
The massive fish swims in place while whole worlds die and become in the tidal plains of his rotating fins. Your mind blinks and the great fish is no longer the deep black of a night sky but the pure white of holy light. His eyes glow with the golden light of the thousand suns, and the horrible voice that you will miss forever but you feel has always been there in your head speaks again.
"I DO NOT ASK FOR HOMMAGE, I DO NOT ASK FOR PRAISE, I DO NOT ASK FOR WORSHIP YET THESE THINGS YOU THINK ARE OF VALUE TO ME? MY SERVANT GRAYMASH HERE RUSHES INTO BATTLE HEEDLESS OF THE CONSEQUENCES AT TIMES AND YET HE PRAISES ME. WHAT GOOD DO THESE THINGS DO? HOW DO THEY BALANCE THE UNIVERSE? HOW DO THEY SERVE THE GREATER GOOD, OR THE GREATER EVIL? WHAT PURPOSE DO YOU SERVE, WHAT PURPOSE WOULD GRANTING YOUR REQUEST SERVE? ALL MORTALS FROM THE MOMENT OF THE CREATION OF THIS FOOLISH SPELL COME HERE AND ASK FOR THE RETURN OF DEATH TO LIFE. THIS ONE YOU WANT..."
The dead form and soul of your friend rises from the water dry and whole. He finds he can now speak.
"TO TURN BACK HIS DEATH FOLLOWS AN UNATRAL PATH. ONE OF YOU TELL ME, WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF I GRANTED EVERY PRAYER FOR THE RETURN OF A DEAD LOVED ONE? WHAT WOULD THE ULTIMATE CONSEQUENCE OF THAT ACTION BE? YOU ARE ALL MORE THAN YOU SEEM, ONE OF YOU TELL ME."
Tishe' and Stripes Tuesday March 14th, 2006 4:28:28 AM
The words roll over the brown-haired girl as she continues to stand frozen in fear and awe.
And as the Dark One's words wash over her like the ocean, a flicker of animation wells up. She is afraid, certainly, and with good reason. So why does she suddenly get the feeling that Gargul is speaking like a tutor trying to lead particularly dense students to the truth?
And with that thought, Tishe' regains some of her fire. Not enough to banish her fear, but enough to speak in spite of the fear within her.
"D-Dark One. If a thread is never cut, then there would be no death and the tapestry would be a mass of knoted threads. without balance."
Still sweating, Tishe' takes a breath and speaks again. "But if a thread is cut too soon, an entire tapestry may unravel. Was... was Ulgren's cut too soon?"
Mac (Sub/Al) Tuesday March 14th, 2006 11:55:02 AM
"Meaningless." Broad nostrils flare as Mac raises his head to look up at that great god.
"Death would become meaningless. Without respect for death, there's no respect for life. Without respect for life, the bonds we have with each other are gone."
"We help each other ... care for each other because we don't have forever on this Wold. We fight so that all can make the best of the time they have. We fight so that other people have a chance at happiness in the time they have here."
"Ulgren, he's one of us. It's something he fights for too. Respect for Life. Respect for Death. If his time's up, then it's up. His life wasn't wasted. We know that. I know that. I respect it."
"But you don't have many defenders. You might think of that."
Mac (Sub/Al) Tuesday March 14th, 2006 11:55:02 AM
"Meaningless." Broad nostrils flare as Mac raises his head to look up at that great god.
"Death would become meaningless. Without respect for death, there's no respect for life. Without respect for life, the bonds we have with each other are gone."
"We help each other ... care for each other because we don't have forever on this Wold. We fight so that all can make the best of the time they have. We fight so that other people have a chance at happiness in the time they have here."
"Ulgren, he's one of us. It's something he fights for too. Respect for Life. Respect for Death. If his time's up, then it's up. His life wasn't wasted. We know that. I know that. I respect it."
"But you don't have many defenders. You might think of that."
Trellus Tuesday March 14th, 2006 5:50:23 PM
Still on one knee, Trellus winces at Mac's words. The cleric is not in a clear frame of mind, but he's pretty sure that response won't be well received.
At least Gargul has asked a question he thinks he can answer. WHAT PURPOSE DO YOU SERVE?
"Lord Gargul," he replies, still afraid to look up at the imposing form before him, "we are the Bloodpack, sworn to protect the Sargass. We are told our land faces a great danger, one that would enslave all our people. A slave does not serve Life or Death, he simply exists, which is no purpose. We are sworn to prevent that. Ulgren is sworn to prevent that."
The cleric of Domi is certain he could say that better, but his mind flails for a conclusion. It fails him, again.
"We need him," he finishes lamely.
Trellus Tuesday March 14th, 2006 5:50:23 PM
Still on one knee, Trellus winces at Mac's words. The cleric is not in a clear frame of mind, but he's pretty sure that response won't be well received.
At least Gargul has asked a question he thinks he can answer. WHAT PURPOSE DO YOU SERVE?
"Lord Gargul," he replies, still afraid to look up at the imposing form before him, "we are the Bloodpack, sworn to protect the Sargass. We are told our land faces a great danger, one that would enslave all our people. A slave does not serve Life or Death, he simply exists, which is no purpose. We are sworn to prevent that. Ulgren is sworn to prevent that."
The cleric of Domi is certain he could say that better, but his mind flails for a conclusion. It fails him, again.
"We need him," he finishes lamely.
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday March 14th, 2006 8:01:58 PM
Gilan looks up at the god that is before them and rolls his eyes with the response from Mac. "That bites grass." He mutters under his breathe and then listens as Trellus speaks up. He nods his head as one has put thier true purpose here into the fore ground.
With a little bit more nerve than he is actually feeling he speaks. "What Trellus says is right...a new threat has come to the Plains...the Oglian by the old name. They once enslaved a nice portion of the peoples here but they were driven back underground." He swallows hard as he tries to keep his thoughts in line and not falter now. "We have a shot at slowing them down at least...here and now...but we need Ulgren's help." With a look around at the others he feels his own resolve eroding around him. "We are Pack...Family...maybe a hope that we have not realized yet?" Some of this is starting to bother him too. Some had just joined up with them and only fought in a few battles but...yes they are family in the truest sense of the word. Still that answer that he just gave does not seem to be enough.
Ciaran does nothing but whine a little as he closes his eyes to not see, but yet still see.
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday March 14th, 2006 8:01:58 PM
Gilan looks up at the god that is before them and rolls his eyes with the response from Mac. "That bites grass." He mutters under his breathe and then listens as Trellus speaks up. He nods his head as one has put thier true purpose here into the fore ground.
With a little bit more nerve than he is actually feeling he speaks. "What Trellus says is right...a new threat has come to the Plains...the Oglian by the old name. They once enslaved a nice portion of the peoples here but they were driven back underground." He swallows hard as he tries to keep his thoughts in line and not falter now. "We have a shot at slowing them down at least...here and now...but we need Ulgren's help." With a look around at the others he feels his own resolve eroding around him. "We are Pack...Family...maybe a hope that we have not realized yet?" Some of this is starting to bother him too. Some had just joined up with them and only fought in a few battles but...yes they are family in the truest sense of the word. Still that answer that he just gave does not seem to be enough.
Ciaran does nothing but whine a little as he closes his eyes to not see, but yet still see.
Grymash slowly rises from his crouched position. Gargul's words confuse him somewhat. A little too cerebal for him to fully comprehend. Only that his god didnt approve of his tactics, if that is what you call them, back in the previous battle. Grymash curses himself under his breath. His anger has always been an issue for him. Like a creeper, a monster, just below the surface waiting to strike out at anyone who dares tread above him.
"Master, Gry try ta be like Lord Gargul. Gry, like double axe, tries ta bring balance to da land. The half-orc slowly spins one blade of his double axe and presents it to Gargul. "Dis side brings death to treadles dat it touch." Then he presents the opposite blade, "Dis side protects life from treadles dat wish hurts on Gry's pack an friends. Gry try ta keep da balance, but Gry fail Gargul, Gry fail packmates. It be Grymash dat should be dead, but Ulgren die in Gry's place. Maybe to make balance, natural an rights, Gry should take Ulgren's place. Will dat makes Ulgren's path natural agains?" Grymash then holds out his double axe with both hands and offers it to his Lord Gargul. "Grymash ready ta make wrong be right. Gry's blood for Ulgren's blood."
Anuk Tuesday March 14th, 2006 9:47:43 PM
Quietly, Anuk says, "We do not ask only for love or friendship. If that was so, I would be asking for...for the return of my father. But to do that would be selfish...an imbalance. We ask this together as a pack because we need Ulgren with the pack so that we can fight to maintain the balance that Trellus and Gilan speak of."
HE (gargul) Tuesday March 14th, 2006 10:35:57 PM
The giant fish swims nowhere as he listens to the pack. The swirl of black spreads though him till the star covered fish ungulates before you again. The voice comes again, this time softer as if from your heart and less from your head. A tentacles from the great catfishes mouth stretches out and lifts Grys head.
"you are not to worry about the great balance gry. you are to worry about the small one within yourself. you can not defend anyone if you are dead. then where would the wold be? a life for a life doesn't restore the balance. be strong gry, learning when not to fight, and when not to kill is the most important lesson i wish you to know. i am proud of you my son." As the voice chooses that word it is claer it is not the religious implication that is ment in the inflection, but the bond of blood, the bond of pride. The bond of a true father.
The tentacles come out and join with others; each touches Gilan, Anuk or Trellus in the chest, lightly as if holding a hand over their hearts. Softly the voice comes to all of you again.
"you three have strong hearts but lead with passion and not reason. slavery is not the end of life or the beginning but it creates struggle to force the best from life and therefore the best of death. slavery is the antithesis, the death of freedom and from the ashes of that death is birthed a bird of liberty that is more beautiful to behold than any other. it may even be perhaps me who awoke your long dead enemy from slumber to challenge you. perhaps if you are not up to it then the plains deserve what is coming. what makes you think i would oppose that? you come begging for a life to help you in a conflict that i may not wish you to win. your hearts betray your lack of reason. more importantly you have not found the answer to the question. what purpose do you serve? we need him does not answer anything other than your selfish desire to have something back. your answers are less than the true strength of the hearts they came from. listen to that heart and find the answer to my question. you will be pleased you did."
Turning to Mac the great eyes fall upon him. The voice still soft now has a heard edge.
"you have knowledge but little wisdom. do you know the difference? i shall illustrate it for you."
Suddenly all the group finds themselves staring out through the eyes of Mac as a small child. they can feel his breath and smell as he smells. His mother is standing over him and is talking to him and pointing to an iron skillet she has over the fire.
"Don't touch that skillet darling, its very hot and will burn you. Its dangerous, make sure you don't touch it." She says as she walks away.
Gargul's voice speaks.
"NOW YOU HAVE KNOWLDGE LITTLE ONE!"
Your eyes all watch as she leaves and you feel the rumbling in your tummy as you think of the bacon fat she has frying in the pan. It would sure taste good. In hunger little Mac reaches up and grabs the pan handle and then begins to scream in pain. You can all feel every painful moment. In a panic he flips the skillet over onto himself and hot grease runs down his leg. He flails about and grabs some water throwing it onto his leg. The water only makes the burning hot oil spread further as Mac screams in pain flailing about and screaming until finally he passes out. The world goes black for all of you. In the blackness the voice comes again softly, like a caress in the darkness.
"and now you have wisdom little one. use it well and remember."
Suddenly you all find yourself back in front of the great catfish. Everyone seems to be all right. Hands ok, legs ok, except . . . Mac's leg. There is a very large scar there where you don't ever remember one before. It is an old scar, and ugly. He must have had it most of his life, but why is it no one remembers it? Perhaps they just never really paid attention.
"mac" the voice comes again. "what makes you think i need defenders? and what makes you think you defend me? are you even sure what i am? do you even begin to comprehend what i am and what i do? i am life and death. there is nothing anywhere that i don't touch. NOTHING."
Then lastly the eyes turn on Tishe'.
"you my dear," a beautiful laugh rumbles through the universe. "i like you. you have wisdom and spirit and fire. you will do well to begin to carry what you have learned and will learn out to others and make them understand purpose. you have come closer to the understanding of what i have placed in your lap than many ever do in their whole long lives. if a thread is cut too soon then indeed the tapestry may unravel, and if it is never cut it can indeed cause a tangled mess. but sometimes we mend the thread we weave so it can continue to make its pattern. that can be done now. i find joy in you and resolve to keep a close eye on you. A tentacle comes out and gently rests on Tishe's hand. There beneath the touch burns the mark of Gargul, given from the god himself. "you may wear it for all to see, or keep it hidden so only those who know of it will see it. it is your choice. it is my gift to you."
Finally turning to the pack he speaks.
"NOW SOMEONE ANSWER ONE FINAL QUESTION. HOW MANY MORE TIMES WILL YOU ALL STAND BEFRE ME LIKE THIS? IF I GIVE YOU THIS AGAIN HOW DO I NOT FEEL LIKE YOU WILL BE HERE AGAIN IN A MONTH OR A YEAR ASKING AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGIN. WHAT DO I TEACH YOU BY THIS? IF THIS IS SO EASY THEN WHAT DO YOUR LIVES REALLY MEAN? WHAT WORTH IS SACRIFICE? HOW MANY MORE TIMES WILL I BE SUMMONED TO SEE YOU ALL BEFORE ME BEGGING FOR THE LIFE OF ONE OF YOURS. TELLING ME YOU NEED HIM? TELLING ME HOW DESPRATELY YOU NEED HIM FOR SOME MISSION YOU ARE ON? DO YOU THINK THERE IS ANYTHING NEW IN YOUR ARGUMENTS? HOW MANY OTHERS DO YOU THINK I HAVE HAD BEFORE BE THAT HAVE SAID THE SAME WORDS. WHAT DOES MY GIVING YOU WHAT YOU THINK YOU WISH TEACH?" It is difficult to know for sure but it almost sounds as if the voice of the god gets tired suddenly, as if the gound here is stale and untasteful, as if no one has yet to truely answer this question."HOW MANY MORE?"
Jake Wednesday March 15th, 2006 1:42:38 AM
Jake doesn't answer the God's question. He doesn't think they should come back, even to plead for the life of their companion... he can't possibly justify it to a God. And if he were to die, he can't see himself asking to come back... break all the rules, just to live. Well... maybe he could, but he's not sure, at the moment, how he could justify it.
Ulgren d20+8=28 d20-1=8 d20=7 d20+8=12 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 8:03:51 AM
The mage appears suddenly and yet is still not there. Ulgren bows respectfully to Gargul (Will DC 28, natural 20). "Stop my lord, I would not have my friends forced to answer." Ulgren steps forward to stand between Gargul and his packmates, "The truth is we will come as often or as few times as we feel we must. We are bound to each other, some more than others, in ways that are difficult to explain and simple to see. My friends come today out of respect in the very least and out of love at the very most. To them there was no question of whether or not they should face you again my Lord. They felt they must." Ulgren turns to his friends, "Thank you for coming. I know that this has been hard for you." Ulgren turns back to Gargul and waits.
Flea d20+3=17 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 8:56:44 AM
The gnome doesn't move. On her knees, her eyes cast down, she tries to be as inconspicuous as possible. She wonders if, when it is her time to quit the Wold, she couldn't just sneak into the realm of shadows and avoid an interview with the god of life and death. Maybe Domi will let her live with him? Even though Flea had never been partial to any god before, Trellus' god has always been there for her in times of crisis.
The drama of little Mac plays out in her mind's eye, and the gnome understands the practical lessons. Unfortunately, wisdom had never been the rogue's forte, and she can't draw any correlations between what the great black fish is trying to communicate. If only Bodhi were here. He would make it all clear and help her understand! Flea sighs. The sound is enormously loud in her ears, and she looks about startled.
HOW MANY MORE TIMES WILL YOU ALL STAND BEFRE ME LIKE THIS
The god's thoughts boom into her head.
WHAT DOES MY GIVING YOU WHAT YOU THINK YOU WISH TEACH?
Flea's knees are starting to hurt. Her eyes roll up to fix the dark god. It is impossible. Staring at the ground, she answers Gargul as best she can (diplomacy=17).
"Mr. Gargul, sir," she starts, "we come to see you...because we can, sir." Her voice is a mere whisper. She continues a little louder, "in this magical Wold the path to the Shadowlands runs both ways and some...by your grace...take the route back." Flea wonders if any they have slain have ever petitioned Gargul to return, and she shivers. "Mercy for Ulgren and a boon for the Bloodpack...a kindness...we ask you, because, we are sorry that the lesson is so hard to learn and we are so slow to learn it. Let the drow walk the return path with us, and together, we will try again."
Mac (Sub/Al) Wednesday March 15th, 2006 11:18:39 AM
The minotaur looks down at the scar on his leg. He shakes his wooly head. If the gods have no understanding of wisdom, what sort of Wold is this to live in?
"You may not need defenders," Mac's voice is flat and emotionless, "but life does. All people should be allowed to live life to its fullest, because death comes when it comes."
"If you're life too, then I guess that means you need defenders. I don't know what you are. I only know life."
"You asked what would happen if you granted every prayer for the return of a loved one. Again, I tell you plain and simple, death would lose its meaning. And if death loses its meaning, life would lose its meaning too."
"If you are life," he points at the scar on his leg, "and this is what you teach, this is what you wish me to believe life is, then you are not someone I would wish to see again."
Mac turns his back on Gargul.
Trellus Wednesday March 15th, 2006 12:40:56 PM
Again, Trellus winces at Mac's words. And again, the cleric is quickly forced to move on and think on the words of the god. My heart knows the purpose I serve? Trellus can't concentrate. The overpowering presence of Gargul makes it too hard to think of anything other than that great fish.
How many more times? "I..I..I don't know," he stammers. If Gilan, or Anuk, or Gry, or any of them fall, won't Trellus be back? "We are one. If one falls, aren't they rest of us oathbound to at least attempt to garner his or her return?"
The blond man is certain Gargul has heard those words many times before as well. He thinks, and makes a decision. There is but one commitment he can make.
"I can say only this - should I fall and enter your realm, I will accept that fate. I ask my packmates not to make this journey on my behalf."
Anuk d20+4=17 Wednesday March 15th, 2006 1:27:02 PM
The horrifyingly gentle rebuke from the god goes through Anuk's soul at the touch from the tentacle. "You lead with passion and not reason..." Is that not the best that is within us...our passions? Reason may lead us in deciding what to do, but passion will always be why we do things. Always. "Look into your hearts...". Isn't the heart the home of passion? The place where we draw the strength to do something beyond ourselves?
Mustering what courage he can (will 17), Anuk responds, "How many times? My heart tells me that I will face you as many times as the pack needs me to. If that is the selfish answer, then I am selfish. I will always accept your answer, Lord Gargul, but I will also always ask the question if that is what my heart leads me to do."
Tishe' and Stripes Wednesday March 15th, 2006 1:38:40 PM
The words are overpowering, amazing, awesome. A faint smile crosses the plain-faced woman's mouth at the Dark One's response to Grymash; he is a simple soul with a huge heart, she thinks.
The experience of Little Mac burns her mind as well as her leg, and Tishe' tries to understand the will of the Catfish who is beyond understanding. Tishe' has ever searched for knowledge, but experience garners wisdom. She thinks about one of her mother's own sayings, "No matter what others say, most people have to touch sawgrass themselves." Mac's answer is enough to whip her head around and stare at the minotaur. Moving over she puts a small hand on his burly arm.
"Machasthai, you're playing with the grease fire right now." urging him with her eyes to not challenge the god and blow thier chance at getting Ulgren back.
And then Gargul speaks to her. ME? squeaks a little voice inside her head. She doesn't understand much of what the Dark One tells her, though her heart leaps at the mention of mending a thread. (Ulgren! her heart surges)
And then the tentacle. And the MARK. And her eyes are full of a confused wonder. And for another time in the Bloodpack's memory, Tishe' is rendered speechless...
Gilan and Ciaran Wednesday March 15th, 2006 1:58:50 PM
Gilan listens and experiences the things that are presented to him by Gargul. As he does he tries to ponder what it is that he has been told. He realizes that he does react more than think things through. Does that mean that at times he is just like Gry when he rages?
With a last look at Gargul as he makes the last question know he cannot help but answer honestly. "Lord Gargul...I am sorry to say that I will most likely come to you many times. Your judgement will I respect and if you turn me down than there must have been a reason or I asked for the return of someone thats' time was up." The ability to get this spell cast is both a boon and a curse all in one. He knows that Gargul has better things to do and should not be answering every little petition.
With a heavy sigh he shakes his head. He had thought of this very spell some weeks after he was found and brought to Rattledam. It would have gotten him his parents back...maybe...but even if he could he was scared of what would happen after. Tears fall from his face as memories flood him of his parents and he hopes that they are doing well here with Gargul.
Grymash Wednesday March 15th, 2006 7:36:13 PM
Grymash doesnt know what he can add to what has already been said, but he turns to Gargul and simply adds, "Gry would take everys chance Gry could get to come and be in Gargul's place. Gry time wit Gargul be worth lots more than dragon hordes gold ginglies."
HE (gargul) Thursday March 16th, 2006 12:45:56 PM
As Mac turns he finds that he has turned right around to face the God. There is no looking away from something you dont wish to see. The great fish's voice is so soft and so sad now that one can barely hear it.
"they all believe that it is the others that know only love but there is nothing of struggle in that love." The great tentacle comes out and raises Macs head. "the scar is a gift, all gifts can be left here, take it or not. but my last words to all of you are to listen to your words, you say you respect life and therfore you respect death but then you say that youll be here as many times as you have to. life and death they are the same. they are the same. how do you equate a respect for this by saying that it dosent matter. how can you respect it if you know it holds no bounds and you will all die old and toothless in bed just by use of a spell. you poor mac have missed the point entirely, so if you wish do not take the scar with you. in fact perhaps i can better teach some of you what i mean this way. The great fish closes his eyes and opens them, slowly. They are white and cloudy again. The voice booms. "SOME OF YOU ARE NOW CLOSED OF FROM THE RELEM OF THE SHADOW LANDS. YOU ARE CLOSED OFF FROM DEATH. I WILL NOT TAKE YOU NO MATTER WHAT. YOU WILL LIVE UNTIL YOU ARE SO OLD AND TOOTHLESS THAT YOU CAN UNDERSTAND THE LESSON I NEED TO TEACH. SOME OF YOU ARE STILL OPEN TO DEATH. SOME OF YOU CAN DIE AND WILL DIE. SOME OF YOU ARE NOW IMORTAL. YOUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS ARE NOW DIFFRENT FROM YOU. KNOWLDGE AND WISDOM MAC, KNOWLDGE AND WISDOM."
With thats suddely all of it is gone and you find yourself back where you started. Your friend stands alive with you.
(OOC: Please post for your DM Mack and Tishe' your choices for your physical appearance. They become perm. after that post. It was fun. Ill talk to your DM as soon as they e-mail me and they will send out extra exp. well played all.)
Mac (Sub/Al) Thursday March 16th, 2006 1:17:59 PM
Mac looks down at the scar, still upon his leg. The memory that is his, and is yet not his.
The god is gone. But his packmates remain. That's the important thing. The things that are no longer worth saying to gods, he would still say to his packmates. They are still important.
"Thank you, Tishe'," he says first. "I understand your concern. I ... " The minotaur lowers his eyes. "You are important to me too."
His feelings are his own. But they are his packmates.
"When the gods understand no more," he says, "there is cause for despair."
The minotaur returns from his packmates to the setting. There were rapke. And Barons.
Flea Thursday March 16th, 2006 5:14:02 PM
"Immortal? Not die? NOT DIE!" The great fish is gone, and the words come out in a burst of excitement. Flea reaches her arms out in front of herself and turns her hands over to examine her palms. "Tishe! Tishe!" she calls excitedly, "which one is my life-line? Is it long?" Distracted and excited the gnome goes from pack-mate to pack-mate, to see if they look any different.
Eventually she reaches Ulgren, and reaching 'round his legs, she gives him a hug. "We've got to get you one of these!" the gnome opens the collar of her leather armour and peels back the fabric of her tunic until the bright red of the dragon's tear shines out. "Hey, guys? Watcha' think? We've got to get Ulgen a dragon's tear so he can feel the heart touch!
Grymash d4=1 Thursday March 16th, 2006 7:55:18 PM "Thank yooz Lord Gargul. Gargul be wise an fairs," says the barbarian cleric as that world disolves away and becomes the Living Wold once again. He turns to his Bloodpack and looks Ulgren up and down. "How Ulgren feel ... how yooz doin'? Welcome back. Theres maybe sick feelin' for uh little time while Ulgren's body becomes more livin. Here, drinks some water. Dat will help."
Grymash turns back to to the direction where his lord Gargul once was. Immortals, he thinks. He never imagined Gargul would have given such a test. Grymash then does the only thing he could think of to determine if he was cursed with immortality. He draws one of his daggers and grabs the blade with his left hand. Gry then pulls the dagger away to see if it drew blood. All blood flows to Gargul. If blood does not come, Gry will know that Gargul rejects it. He will know if he's mortal or not. (Damage: 1 point.)
Jake Thursday March 16th, 2006 9:03:21 PM
Jake nods to himself...the God's right, he figures. "if ah die, my life was worth living...is it?" He wonders. What has he accomplished? Well, quite a bit. And he's pretty sure he, unlike some others in the pack, has one or two offspring running around the world, somewhere. But..he'd also like to maybe live a bit longer, and do a few more heroic things. And find a few more females. He takes off his hat and grips it nervously. He hopes he isn't one of the immortal ones...
As Ulgren seems okay, he gives the dark elf a congratulatory return pat on the back. "Nice to see you up, darkear... Uh, you might not want to drink that waterskin if you still have it."
And later, as they prepare to leave, Jake consults Trellus somewhat privately. "Ah know when ah die, ah'm gonna go up and meet Domi, probably.... Uh, hey Trellus... is anything wrong with that god of luck? Ah kinda liked one story ah heard about him, but another story said he was ...well, evil or something." Jake looks pretty unsure about Wardd, as religion isn't something he knows much about. "Or there's Flower...but she sounds like a god for girls and wusses..."
Gilan and Ciaran Friday March 17th, 2006 2:54:33 AM
Gilan nods his head to Gargul and then thinks on what has been said. Do they truely understand what it is that the god has said. He knows that Tishe' is right about the weave and everything but he cannot also forget that they have a debt to the Plains. "Is it not our duty to protect her...did we not take an oath." He is muttering to himself as he tries to figure it out. Ulgren was needed but if Gargul had refused than he would have went with the decision. Death is sacred as is life...but this death feels unnatural to him but than again he is not too sure anymore.
When he finds himself back in the coastal village he looks around to the others. "You don't suppose that some of us are really immortal?" He swallows hard as he watches Gry pull out a dagger and test the theory. "Oh what have we done...or was it a lesson in disguise?" He does not seem too sure either way and he is not about to test this theory by actually killing himself.
Anuk Friday March 17th, 2006 12:38:48 PM
When it's over, Anuk blinks repeatedly in the sudden brightness. As his eyes adjust, he looks around and the first thing he can focus on is the dark form of the drow. "Ulgren? You're back!" He gives the dark elf a wide grin, pleased to see his friend returned to life. "I'm with Flea...we need to help you find a dragon tear."
His thoughts race over the conversation with the god. "I still don't know what it is Gargul wanted us to understand...but then, who can know what goes through the mind of a god? Immortality without youth? Who did he choose? How will we know?"
Tishe' and Stripes Friday March 17th, 2006 10:39:31 PM
Quietly, with a bemused smile over her face, Tishe' sits in the Sargrass cradling her hand with the unblinking eye of Gargul staring out at the Wold.
She pats her hand on Mac's large one in acknowldegement of his presense, but doesn't move, as Tishe' is totally engrossed in her new knowledge. And bewildered by her comprehension.
"Is it that the gods don't understand or that we don't understand the gods?" She turns her head to look at Mac. "I know how little I know, which may be why I'm so interested in everything. If I don't know everything, I don't understand everything, and so I have much, much more to learn."
And then she sees the reason for thier travel to Gargul's place, standing in the 'grass. Immediately, Tishe' is up and runs to him to give Ulgren a big hug, the large ugly hi-eena cavoting around them. "Welcome back, sweetie, we needed you." Disengaging, she thinks about the Tear. "A Tear of the Dragon would have helped give Ulgren strenth and endurance during the battle, but he still won't be able to feel a Heart-touch", she says sadly. "Not until we get him back to Rattledam."
At this time, she's not thinking of the fishing village, the Barons, or anything else other than her pack.
Mac (Sub/Al) Saturday March 18th, 2006 8:56:32 AM
"Maybe," Mac replies. His head turns from side to side in thought. "Maybe the gods don't listen. Or maybe they don't care. Or maybe it's me that doesn't listen. Or maybe I can't care even though I want to." His brows lower. He searches the area around them once again, as though casting for enemies.
"All I know, Tishe' is what I know right now. When the future comes, I'll know something different. But until then ... "
Mac opens his mouth wide and shakes his head as if to clear the conundrum. But, what's true is true, and there is one truth that is here and now.
Mac's heavy footfalls follow Tishe, then they come to a stop a respectful distance behind.
"Welcome back, Ulgren," the minotaur smiles.
[ Back to you, Graham. Hope you had a honeymoon to remember. -- Al ]
Trellus Saturday March 18th, 2006 2:43:40 PM
Gargul is gone, and the Ulgren is back.
Trellus is very, very quiet. The cleric stands there, arms folded, staring at a spot in the dirt with a furrowed brow. He stands there for quite some time, trying to understand it, trying to figure it out.
Some are immortal, some will die, and some are cursed to grow older and older? Based on Flea's reaction, the blond man realizes not all of the pack understood there are three possibilities.
Trellus' mood is uncharacteristically muted as he responds to his packmates. His answers are delivered in the soft monotone of someone with something else on his mind.
"Gry, I don't think that's gonna work. I think you're gonna bleed no matter what."
To Flea - "It'd be shady, but Grandmaw gave us the Tear, not the monks. We're not gonna get another one of those.
To Jake - "Gargul rules the other side, dude. He's who you see no matter who you're patron god is. Wardd's not evil, I don't think. He's just real unpredictable." For the first time, Trellus breaks into a grin. "Weft and web with you, I guess."
To Gilan, he just shrugs. "I don't know, Gil. I just don't know. That whole pattern was pretty sunbaked. Truly."
Trellus offers his hand to Ulgren. His smile returns again in genuine affection. "Welcome back, dude. Howdya feel?"
Grymash Saturday March 18th, 2006 7:19:32 PM
Grymash turns and grunts with confusion. "Well, whut ever Bloodpack be, one thing be true. Weez all needs ta train ta be better warriors. Gry think weez all haves fightin' lessons everies morn an evenin'!" Grymash pulls out a quarterstaff from his magic quiver. "Hmmm, Gry gots only one battle stick, weez need ta git mores!"
Now, where were we? (ADM MikeK) Sunday March 19th, 2006 2:13:57 PM
As the white mist rises and then dissipates, the Bloodpack is left standing in the small square of the fishing village. Many questions remain. Mac and Tishe continue to carry the marks "gifted" to them by Gargul. And everyone wonders about the meaning of his final words. Have some of the Bloodpack truly become immortal? Many questions.
And yet, with the questions comes one answer. Ulgren is alive and returned. The drow stands hale and hearty alongside his packmates. The sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world slowly intrude on the senses.
Rayla's droning incantation has been in the minds of all. Now it stops. The mist rises, and the Bloodpack finds they have been away long enough for a group of 20 or 30 villagers to encircle they and the Barons, observing the proceedings with unfeigned curiosity. With the disappearance of covering mist, the observers gasp as one. The fisher folk scratch out a hard living on the seas. They've experienced life and death, storms and struggles, and now some creature is crushing their very homes. Few events remain to the Wold that would impress such a hard-bitten crowd.
However, bringing a corpse back to life qualifies.
They stare open-mouthed at Ulgren, some even half reaching toward the drow. Their eyes slowly rove over the Bloodpack, and then the Barons, and finally settle on Rayla. For the crowd has done the math, and they realize the import of this event faster than the Bloodpack, faster than Rayla herself.
An older woman steps into the circle, "My son," she implores the Baron. Another, younger woman -- "My husband." Now, more and more folk come forward, pressing toward the cleric of Gargulus. All have a story. All plead. All want. "My son" - "My husband" -- "My wife" -- "My daughter" -- "My father" -- "My mother" -- "My teacher" -- "My friend". Everyone has someone they want back.
Rayla pales slightly as the crowd presses in. Her twin companions again reach for swords, but more nervously than before. The crowd is growing. Even the rapke begin to slowly step back, their heads swaying from threat to threat.....
"STOP!" Rayla commands. "I only had the one spell. I cannot do this again." The spell casters of the Bloodpack note she did not see fit to add the word "today" at the end of her statement. Her words have the desired effect, as the crowd is momentarily deflated. Rayla is quick to grasp the opportunity. She hisses a quick phrase at Trellus. "When you are done here, follow this path to our stronghold. You will be met and given directions. I have word, cleric of The Protector."
Without another sound, the Barons rapidly mount their rapke, and bound away from the village. The villagers stare silently at them, especially Ulgren. They are obviously trying to decide what to do with the group.
Flea d20+1=7 Monday March 20th, 2006 12:08:37 AM
Flea feels trapped as the needy crowd pushes forward. She is caught between her pack-mates and the strange barons who Bloodpack have given their word to help. Doesn't anyone see her? Flea gives someone in front of her a push (Strength = 7) "Hey! Look who you're stepping on!" she yells.
Jake Monday March 20th, 2006 12:15:59 AM
Jake looks apologetically at the crowd. They need so many people back...but in his heart of hearts, he can't help but wonder how come he feels that the bloodpack members deserve it whereas most people don't... Or od they? Guess that was Gargul's position. But anyways... "Let's go into town, guys."
Tishe' and Stripes Monday March 20th, 2006 4:46:06 AM
The brown-haired girl's internal reverie is broken by the surge of the crowd, the Baron's words. (Baroness? Tishe' wonders with a very inoportune thought)
She involuntarily shrinks behind Mac, her eyes searching out her senior druid. "Gilan", she whispers urgently, "we've been talking about heart-touches and the Tears where the Barons could hear us!" She is very worried about what secrets they betrayed.
Stripes stands beside his human, once more on familiar ground, and growls at anyone outside the Bloodpack that gets too close.
Trellus Monday March 20th, 2006 12:00:20 PM
The transition from Gargul admonishing the Bloodpack for returning time and again to this crowd of villagers planning to do just that is overpowering to the young cleric. He stands there, his face a mask of sadness, as his mind boils all the opposing (and yet valid) points of view. This bites grass he decides.
Even though she's a Baron, Trellus can't help but feel some empathy for Rayla. He nods understandingly at her comment and hasty retreat. Someday, Domi willing, I'll have that power, he realizes. How will I choose when to use it? What is the cost to the caster?
More unanswerable questions.
Trellus turns to the Bloodpack. "Jake's right," he states. "We better get out of here. Let's weave for the Mug."
If the crowd permits, Trellus pushes toward the larger building.
Gilan and Ciaran Monday March 20th, 2006 3:21:47 PM
Gilan can feel the sudden press of bodies and it is not to his liking. He is not sure why he does it but he bares his own teeth and a low rumble starts in his throat. At his feet Ciaran is doing much the same thing and his tail is almost straight out.
With the retreat of the Barons he can feel the tension still in the air. For some strange reason he feels for the Baroness, even if the spell was payment for something they had agreed to do. With his teeth still bared he glance around to the Bloodpack. "To the Mug then and see this mayor." His hands twitch as he so wants to change his shape and run these people off.
He settles for at least a few minutes as he hears Tishe' and shakes his head. "Secrets are hard to keep sister and they know a lot about us already...know thy enemy they say." He will move along with the group, when they decide to make it to the Mug. Ciaran continues to growl as he stocks away with his brother, stiff legged.
Anuk d20+3=15 d20+4=16 Monday March 20th, 2006 6:23:28 PM
The press of the crowd keeps Anuk wary, and he does his best to protect Flea from the eager villagers trying to get to the barons. (str check 15, dex check 16), though he is sure not to get too aggressive with anyone. "Watch it, friend," he says to a large and careless man who gets too close. He plants himself in place, making something of a human wall between the man and the gnome. "You okay down there, Flea?"
When and if the crowd disappates Anuk moves to the Mug with the rest of the pack.
Mac Monday March 20th, 2006 7:18:42 PM
With Ulgren back, Mac's mind turns to the conversation he was having prior to the Barons' arrival. Hearing Flea's yelp he reaches down and lifts the gnome up to his shoulder - above the crush - and asks, "What with Ulgren better and the Barons gone, weren't we about to get a drink?"
He follows Gilan and Ciaran, leaving a wide wake for Tishe' to follow in.
Wisdom... he thinks to himself as he walks. The paces stretching the scar on his leg bringing the word back into his mind. It is a distraction from the scars that run from his neck to his waist. "Wisdom..." he says aloud and unaware.
Grymash d20=18 Monday March 20th, 2006 9:35:55 PM
Grymash turns to address the mob of villagers they begin to group around them. He puts on his priestly hat, in a matter of speaking, and tries to comfort them in the same matter Gargul comforted him.
"Peoples ... be not sad for those dat be gone. For theyz be not gone! For Gry be wit Gargul an saw da wonders an pretty things dat be wit them. Theyz be at peace an rest in paradise. There be joy in dat place ... happyness all 'bout. No mourn themz for when time comes ta die yooz be wit them agains an be wit thems forever."
(Diplomacy check: 18)
The Mug (ADM MikeK) Monday March 20th, 2006 10:24:07 PM
The pressing of the crowd is enough for Flea to get a bit claustrophobic. She yells out and shoves out at the nearest leg. "Huh?" a man exclaims, and looks down. "Oh. Sorry." The man stops, and is embarrassed enough that he forces everyone else to go around as well, giving the gnome some much needed space. The look Anuk gives them is also quite helpful in forcing them around.
Stripes and Ciaran make it clear they don't want any strangers any closer. The strangers all take the hint, and steer clear.
Jake suggests heading into the village. Trellus concurs.
Tishe wonders aloud if the Bloodpack has given away any secret advantage with their words. Gilan, after growling a bit at the crowd himself, replies the Barons might know about it already.
Mac picks Flea up and heads for the mug. The few villagers left hastily give him a wide path, and any danger of a stampede is over.
Surprisingly, Grymash calmly addresses the crowd, extolling for them the joy and peace their loved ones are now experiencing. And the crowd listens. They turn away, looking thoughtful as they return to their homes and occupations. Grymash realizes his words have had some effect here.
The Bloodpack makes its way into the small square and enters the large wooden building where the wooden mug-shaped sign hangs over the door. Inside, the single great room fills most of the lower floor. A bar is on the right side of the room, with a swinging door behind that probably leads to the kitchen. A stairway climbs the wall on the left, leading upstairs. The center area is occupied by tables and flat benches.
At the center table, two men look up from the animated discussion they've been having. Both are standing at one table, with one leg perched on the bench (Captain Morgan style). They had been leaning in to each other, forearms resting on the raised thigh of the perched leg. Both are older men, but not old. Their faces are weathered and lined by the elements and the cares of time.
One wears simple clothing and carries a spear in his right hand. His face is leathery, and quite tan. He wears the expression of someone normally quite sure of himself who now finds himself in unknown waters -- cautious, careful. Tishe immediately marks him as a fisherman.
The other man wears masterwork breastplate and carries a longsword in a well worn scabbard. His face is also weathered. But his eyes, a fierce blue, show none of the hesitation of his comrades. He moves as if armor and sword are familiar friends, and the Bloodpack recognizes the look of a veteran who has seen his share of battle. The man's left arm is missing, removed just above the elbow. Although his skin has healed around the bone, the ripped shards of the man's left arm guard bear mute testimony that the wound is recent.
Both men, along with the dozen or so other patrons of the Mug, silently look at the Bloodpack, waiting.
Flea Monday March 20th, 2006 11:58:56 PM
Perched on Mac's shoulder, Flea grabs hold of one of the taur's horns to steady herself. "Whew! That was close!" she says twisting 'round to watch the crowd left behind. Turning back towards where the party is going, Flea volunteers, "let me buy you a drink Mac." Smiling down at the ranger, she adds "you too, 'nuk!" Then, ducking under the mug shaped sign over the door, she calls to her pack-mates, "first round's on me!"
Inside the tavern, Flea releases Mac's horn, and carefully slides down the taur's length, careful not to pull at her friend's fur. Jogging up to the bar, she places some gold coins on the counter. Hooking a thumb over her shoulder to indicate the Bloodpack she announces, "I'm paying!"*
*(OOC: DM let me know if 20 GP is sufficient to buy a round for the Bloodpack. If not, let me know the amount, and I'll deduct accordingly.-Carla)
Anuk d20=10 Tuesday March 21st, 2006 10:28:08 AM
"Shady! Thanks, Flea," Anuk happily responds. A drink does sound good about now. It's been an interesting afternoon.
Anuk's eyes adjust once more, this time from light back to darkness. He follows Flea over to the bar, but while she talks he watches the patrons who are watching him and the pack. "Hello, friends," he calls out. "Don't let us interrupt your conversation...just here for a little drink, is all." (diplomacy 10) He hopes that his voice conveys a friendly tone. Better to let Trellus or one of the others do the talking...he's always been a bit better dealing with strangers.
Tishe' and Stripes Tuesday March 21st, 2006 2:51:12 PM
Wondering about all the amazing things that have happened, Tishe' puts a hand on Stripes as they follow Mac to the sign of the Mug.
Inside, as her eyes adjust to the light, she looks around and then leans in towards Trellus. "That man with a spear, he's a fisherman. Sails a boat out on the salty water and catches food to bring back to the village." The girl notes the missing arm and says louder to include the others in on the conversation. "Looks like they must be talking about giant 'crabs', Trellus. I bet we can help!"
Mac d20+5=18 d20+1=2 Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:03:39 PM
Mac helps Flea ferry the drinks to a table, ackowledging the two gentlemen with a closed-lipped smile. Once seated (or propped by the table otherwise) Mac sips at his ale and tries to casually watch the proceedings.
Spot:18, Listen:2
Bringing Galea out of hiding and sensing ale would not make a good kitten drink, he calls to the barman for a milk in a shallow bowl.
Grymash Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:29:54 PM
Grymash thinks to himself, "Wow!" A thoughtful exchange of words did what his axe cou.. well, his axe could have fixed the problem with the oncoming crowds, but it would've been a whole lot bloodier. But still, it felt very good to protect his pack and not have to get all sweaty and covered in muck and gore. It was very gratifying indeed. Maybe, just maybe, the axe isnt the cure all for every situation that arises. Gargul has taught him well. After coming to this ground-breaking conclusion the big half-orc says a short, silent prayer of thanks to Gargul.
A genuine smile forms across his face. The first time in a long while. The darkness for now has given way to a rising sun. And ohh, how pretty all the colors are.
Trellus d20+7=12 Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:36:10 PM
Noting the expression on Grymash, Trellus matches the half orc's grin and claps him soundly on the shoulder. He doesn't say anything. He doesn't need to.
Entering the Mug with the rest of the pack, he nods in agreement with Tishe. The blond man notes with wry amusement that the talking appears to have been delegated to him.
"Many shadows," he greets the two men. "We're the Bloodpack, from...uh, from out there (points toward the Grass). We're a bit lost, and looking for a way home. We heard some dudes out front saying something about giant crabs? Maybe we can help each other out?"
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday March 21st, 2006 7:36:53 PM
Gilan enters the Mug with the rest and smiles as Flea offers to buy drinks. "Something with no alcohol there Flea." He has never been much for the feeling that it gives him...that loss of control. He looks to the men as Tishe' points them out and nods to them as he looks for a barmaid or maybe he will move straight to the bar.
Either way he will see about getting some fish if they have some ready to eat or get some cooked up. "That fish does not have to be fully cooked...just sear it on both sides really." As he is walking away to the table the rest are moving to he stops to add a little more. "Enough for two...maybe some bread and fruit if you have it." He flashes a pair of gold pieces to either the owner or the barmaid.
Ciaran follows along with his brother, taking no note of the looks that he is most likely getting. He will slip to the side of his brother's chair and lay down upon the floor.
Graze (ADM MikeK) Tuesday March 21st, 2006 8:26:23 PM Flea -- 20 gp will buy a round for the whole place!
Most of the Bloodpack nod politely at the locals and move to a side table. A serving girl, a half elf by the look of her, approaches the table. She stays on the side opposite Ciaran and Stripes, and takes quite a few glances at Mac. Gilan asks for some fish, bread, and fruit. The girl nods. Mac asks for milk, and produces Galea from his pocket. This earns him a sunbeam smile from the girl, and she nods again. Flea asks for a round for the Pack, and that receives yet another nod. Jake doesn't say anything, but he gets a shy smile anyway. Then, the girl moves off to get their order.
Trellus addresses the two men at the center table. They look at the group, turn to look at each other, and then look at the group again. Shrugging, the sword wielder steps down and approaches the group. The fisherman quickly follows suit, although he chooses a different path so as to arrive alongside the first man instead of following him.
They size up the group for a moment before the swordman speaks. "You know, you folks get a dwarf monk, and you'll have the full set." The comment earns a chuckle from the gallery, while the man's eyes flick from hero to hero, gauging the group's reaction to his jest. His manner is casual and easygoing. But his right hand never strays to far from the sword at his side. He's not threatening, just instinctively careful. By contrast, his partner is becoming increasingly nervous in the presence of the rather imposing figures cut by Grymash and Mac. He clutches his spear in an inexpert grip, and tries to back away without appearing to back away.
The first man ignores him. "I'm Graze," he says neutrally. "You folks appeared from Out There with him [thrusts his chin at Ulgren] in a bag, had words with the Barons, disappeared in a fog bank, and then reappeared ready for stepping out. Not a bad 20 minutes of work." The man's gaze is still analyzing, trying to take your measure.
"Now, its true we got us a situation here." - The remark earns Graze a couple snorts of derision. "Situation?!?" The spearman grunts caustically. "We got us a flippin' disaster."
Graze gives him an annoyed look, and continues -- "but how do we know we can trust you to help? You ever seen a Crab? You got any idea what's going on here? I don't need any more people cutting out on me right now."
Ulgren Tuesday March 21st, 2006 10:18:20 PM
Ulgren blinks, breathes and nearly faints as his soul is reunited with his body. Ulgren nods at his speaking friends but lacks comprehension as the roar and press of the crowd cause the young mage to shake his head. Ulgren stumbles towards The Mug with the rest of his friends unable to speak as his dark eyes soak in the life around him. Ulgren slides leans against the table and has time to look at each of them and utter, "Thanks you," as the swordsman arrives at the table. Ulgren glances at the man and his companion before smiling to his friends and smiling broadly. "You guys are unbelievable." The drow continues almost ignoring the swordsman, "You are my friends, family, my life. I haven't felt this, well good since I lost my family and arrived in this part of the wold. I..., I..., I..." Ulgren stops and tears moisten his eyes. "Thank you again." Ulgren reaches out and touches each of the pack, grasping their hands in turn.
Flea d20+3=21 Tuesday March 21st, 2006 10:21:09 PM
"A round for everyone it is then!" announces the rogue (Diplomacy=21) adding, "and make mine a Flaming Green Gnomish if you can!" Flea grins at the solemn group in the tavern. It has been a long time since she has had the opportunity, or a reason, to smile.
When the half-elf serving girl hands out the drinks, Flea lifts hers up and toasts the dark drow, "to the return of a true, wise friend." Putting down her mug, she pokes the magicker in the ribs, asking, "you knew we were coming for you, didn't you? We always do, you know!"
Tishe' and Stripes Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 12:43:55 PM
The plain-faced girl leans into the dark elf's embrace and gives a hug back. "We are warp and weft, Ulgren, and we will go to the Lands of Rest and back for a packmate."
Her eyes shine at the triumph they have had but quickly return to the fisherman and Graze. She frowns, and her mind goes over everything she has seen and heard about.
"No", she admits, arms folded under her breasts, "I have never seen a Crab. I only know that they are big and obviously mean and that the Bloodpack helps out the good people of the 'Grass. That one" (and she points at Mac) "jumped into a great ranthom to save two comrades. And the rest of us are the same. We will not run from a fight that needs fighting."
"So", she continues with hands on her hips and chin out, "you need help. Maybe if you tell us the kind of help you need, we can see if the Bloodpack can do something about it!"
Stripes is not around his human. Sniffing the air, he has found the entrance to the kitchen, and the hyena has discovered that being swallowed by another animal and flying around the grass has made him hungry.
Gilan and Ciaran Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 2:50:20 PM
Gilan looks up as the two approach and then he listens to what is said. He does not voice anything himself as he has never seen a crab but he has heard of them. Usually they are only about the size of a man's fist at the biggest, unless it is some dire version.
He picks up the mug that was set before him and raises it in a toast with Flea. He does sniff it first and finds it to be filled with water. "To Ulgren." He takes a nice long drink and his tummy rumbles.
As he sets the mug down he looks to the swordman. "We were told that your village needed help...so we came...but if that information is wrong then we will be leaving with the morrow." He was never one for beating around the grass and when a Bloodpacker offers help it is not given lightly...or to run away.
Jake Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 3:40:26 PM
(Afraid I don't have much time to post today and might not be able to post later...) Jake orders "Whatever's local...which includes you..." he grins and winks at the serving girl. When the others take a joke at them, Jake chuckles with the locals. "Y'all shoulda seen that Ice Pack..."
Anuk Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 4:30:43 PM
Anuk takes the mug served to him, raises it once in Ulgren's direction, and throws his head back as he drains it. "Ulgren, Flea and Tishe are right...we'll go anywhere for a packmate. Or, for that matter, for just about anyone who realy needs our help. Speaking of which," he turns to the men. "Where do find one of these...uh...'crabs'? A closer look would probably help us know what kind of help we can offer."
Trellus d20+7=21 Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 4:42:18 PM
Trellus clasps Ulgren's forearm to his own and maintains the hold as he looks the drow in the eye. "Dude, you're Bloodpack. That makes you weft and web with the rest of us. A long time ago, we were just piggies, we left a packmate behind. We didn't know any other way. But now...we never leave a packmate. Never." The cleric continues to hold Ulgren's gaze, and then, very slowly, winks at him.
With a happy laugh, he breaks his grip and has a mug.
Trellus is in a good mood, and Graze's approach doesn't phase it much. He looks up from his spot on the bench.
"Dude, we just want to go home. But we don't know where that is. We're hoping you can help." The blond man waves a hand toward Tishe. "Like she said, we're the Bloodpack. We don't run, we don't quit, and we don't lose. You dudes seem like decent folks that got a serious problem. We'll help. You want some kind of promise? Fine. I serve Domi the Protector. In his name I offer the strength of our arms and the protection of our shields."
Trellus takes a swig.
"We don't know what a crab is. Show us. Tell us what you know so we can help. We're not asking for any reward other than knowledge of where in the Grass we are."
Mac Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 6:49:38 PM
The taur raises his mug of ale. "To Ulgren! May he stand at the end of future troubles on his own two feet!"
"Can't say I know much about crabs, 'cept for what one of my aunts used to say about a soup, and that a good sized one just overfilled a dinner plate. Never ate one myself."
"Just how big are your crabs?" he asks, looking from Graze to the fisherman.
Grymash Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 8:17:46 PM
When the bartender asks Grymash what he wants, he smiles and replies simply, "Yes! Dat will do!" He then eyes the wall behind the barkeep with all the bottles and kegs.
Crab People (ADM MikeK) Wednesday March 22nd, 2006 9:48:48 PM
Ulgren is sufficiently recovered from his post death experience to thank his packmates for standing before Gargul for him. The rest of the Bloodpack is more than happy to have him back, with many a toast drunk in his honor.
Jake's comment to the waitress earns him another smile, but she doesn't say anything as she leaves.
Flea buys a round for house, instantly making everyone a lot more friendly-like. Grymash doesn't quite get he's gotta buy just one drink at a time. The bartender ends up mixing two Flaming Green Gnomishes, one for the gnome, and one for the half-orc.
Nearly everyone has a comment or two for Graze's uncomplimentary talk. He holds up his hand, palm forward, in a placating gesture. "I'm sorry if I touched a nerve there, but ya gotta understand, we had them Barons and the folks down Rockhome way say they was gonna help, and then turn tail as soon as they saw these things. We're just a bit leery about offers now. But you got the fire, I can see that." He sighs. "For all our sakes, I hope you're up to it."
A voice at the door pipes up. Its Haks, the militia man. "I say they's just what we need, Graze." Spear man grunts at him "Why's that?" "These here adventurers had words with the Baron Lady. Guess they ain't likin' each other too much." Haks answers. "So?" "So they's all ready to throw down with three barons and their rapke like it was a barfight or something. An' Baron Lady was talkin' bout how these had took out theirs twice already. If'n they got no problem jumpin' three rapke, I say they'll stick around for the Crabs."
Graze gives the group another look, and comes to a decision. "Troyle, get a crab out here."
The barkeep duck into the kitchen, and returns holding a large kettle pot, which he sets on the table. Inside is a crab. Its the size of a dinner plate, orange, flattish, with a bunch of legs, and two nasty looking pincers. Seeing the looks on the Bloodpack, Graze is quick to point out "This is your everyday, ordinary crab. We fish 'em out of the sea and sell 'em to a merchant vessel who unloads 'em at Hook City. Good eatin'."
"A couple weeks ago, this guy's Grandpappy and a few friends come climbin' out of the ocean. Those things are a good 15' tall, maybe 25' around. They can reach WAY out with them claws, and they are just plain mean. One of 'em chased our cleric near 200' and ripped him in half when it caught 'em. We've never seen nuthin like it."
"Sharlon has," the spear man says. "Sharlon's just telling stories," Graze says dismissively. "She's a bard, whaddya expect?"
Spear man shakes his head. "She's been down south. You ain't."
Graze waves him off. "Anyway, we don't know how many there are, but we been attacked four times since by four or five or six of these things. They show up at night, rip up the buildings, attack anything that moves, and then disappear back into the sea. A really big fire is the only thing that seems to make 'em want to go around anything."
Flea Thursday March 23rd, 2006 12:46:54 AM
When the local yokel starts going on about the 'crabs' that have been terrorizing the village, Flea punches Jake in the arm, and gets a bad case of the giggles. "You keep making time with that half-elf girlie, and you'll be callin' on the cleric about 'nits' too!"
Before the rangy fighter can retaliate, Flea makes off with her empty mug. Passing Trellus and Gillan on her way to the bar, she pauses, "didn't we promise to help the baron lady find some of their folk who were kidnapped by some Ooly...Oogly...Oglian things?" The rogue furrows her brow before continuing, "you think we can do both?"
Tishe' and Stripes Thursday March 23rd, 2006 7:01:25 AM
The brown-haired girl furrows her brow at Flea's comment; they did promise to help with the Oglians...
"But these people need help now." Tishe' tries to emphasize. "We know the Oglians are keeping thier people like cattle so there is probably some time. And we would have to go to the Baron's House first. Imagine what we can learn about the Barons there!"
Her eyes brighten at the mention of Hook City. "My home! I'm sure we could find passage to Rattledam from Hook City. All we have to do is put these Giant Crabs on the run, rescue Barons from the Oglians and then take passage on a passing ship to Hook City and on to Rattledam!" In her enthusiasm, Tishe' ignores the fact that she has probably outlined a couple months' journey...
"I think we need all the information we can get. Let's get this Shaylan." She turns to the cook. "And how do you open their armor to eat it?" Perhaps there is some weakness in the hard-looking shell.
Anuk Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:42:01 AM
"Hey Flea...any chance you could bring another back with you? Thanks!" Anuk calls out. Glass grass, ice wine, green gnomish...he forgot how good this stuff tastes. With a satisfied grin he turns back to the conversation. "We do owe the barons, but don't forget that the manfri said we were needed here. I think Tishe' is right...let's do what we can here and then deal with the Oglians."
He looks down at the crab in the pot and tries to wrap his head around the idea of one that would be nearly as big as a ranthom. With his courage growing as the green gnomish settles into him he says. "Hmm...maybe one of these things would make a shady pet to take with us on the way to the barons? Whaddya think, Gry?"
Trellus Thursday March 23rd, 2006 4:25:18 PM
Trellus looks curiously into the pot, and frowns at the sight of the critter inside. Like Anuk, the cleric is having some difficulty trying to extrapolate what's in front of him into something the size of this room.
"The claws are probably as big as this table," he muses.
Hearing Tishe's remark, Trellus shares a look with Gilan. Both know most of the traders that show up at Rattledam originate at Hook City. We get to Hook City, and we're in the shade, he thinks.
"I'm with Anuk," he answers Flea. "I told her we'd help. I didn't say when. 'Sides, I ain't too keen on her thinking she can lead us around like the beaters back home."
The blond man addresses Graze. "Looks like we gotta be ready to react fast, but also need to be able to go a few nights with nothing happening. Have you got some kind of watch or warning system or something?"
To Ulgren - "Anything we got for that?"
Grymash Thursday March 23rd, 2006 7:24:45 PM
Answering Anuk, the barbarian says, "Hmmmm, Gry think dat be gute idea. But Gry wonder... are this be a youngin' of da big ones? Dat may be why thayz come ta dis town!"
Ulgren Thursday March 23rd, 2006 7:26:41 PM
Ulgren smiles at each of his friends and raises his glass of water to each of them. "No, Trellus I don't have any type of alarm spell sorry. Not to mention that I need to memorize spells if I intend to be of any help at all." Ulgren looks around and finds the quietest spot around, if none are available Ulgren will try to rent a room. "I can memorize as many fire type spells as you want but I am going to take the time to convert as many of these scrolls to spells as I can." Let me know when you are ready.
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday March 23rd, 2006 7:58:47 PM
Normally he would agree with Trellus on most thing but this time around he must disagree. "As for helping the Barons...children are involved and I will not leave them to those Oglian, if I have a choice." He remembers many of the things that he had read on lore of the Plains back in Rattledam. What he remembers is not pretty. "Do you know what the legends say they do to people they catch...slaves yes, if they can work...otherwise food." He swallows hard as he tries not to think of kids in that kind of a fix.
With a shake of his head he returns to the matter at hand. He stares at the crab in the bucket and laughs. "Does not seem to bad when they are that size...but the size of this building." Looking to Ulgren he nods his head. "Not that I know much about your spells...but I would suggest lightning for these sea creatures...soften them up with a little shock and then cut them up...might feet this village for awhile as well." He looks to the others around them, that includes the villagers. "Unless of course they are toxic or mutated...it could just be natural growth."
Jake Thursday March 23rd, 2006 10:56:06 PM
"Ye're right, ah've heard about them diseases and stuff... never had none of them in Rattledam, though, what with the priests and the small environment." Jake ponders that. It's such a nice home, Rattledam...totally protected, completely isolated, everyone living without disease or whatnot.. (except for the occasional ones the Pantheon priests can't guard against.)
Mac Friday March 24th, 2006 2:49:03 AM
"Ah dunno - 200 feet of chasin' after a cleric doesn't sound entirely nat'ral." says Mac poorly mimicking Jake as Galea continues to lap away at her milk.
Turning to Graze he asks, "How regularly have these Crabs been showin' up?"
Tishe' (Second Post) Friday March 24th, 2006 3:42:56 AM
"I can set up Alarm spells starting tomorrow, and perhaps Ulgren and I working together can come up with some other magical aid. Certainly Ulgren's fire spells will be useful here; Graze said that they didn't like big bonfires."
A Place to sleep (ADM MikeK) Sunday March 26th, 2006 8:25:26 PM
Flea notes that the Bloodpack has promised to help the Baron's find the children taken by the Oglian. Tishe, Anuk, and Trellus would rather just help out the village. Gilan has reservations about the cleric's position, and reinforces the need to track down the Oglian. Eventually, all seem to agree on helping out the villagers first and then the Barons.
Mac and Gilan express doubts that the creatures are entirely natural.
Tishe and Ulgren start planning spells that will need to be memorized.
Gry, of all people, brings up a possible motive for the crab's appearance.
Graze takes it all in, and starts answering questions as best he can. "Sharlon ain't here. She's down south somewheres. She ranges up and down the whole coast sharing stories and swapping tales. She's got a couple whoppers 'bout fantastic monsters that attack the shorelines. The towns are always way down south, never anyplace we've actually heard of. I never take no stock in 'em."
Spear man grunts at him. "I gotta whopper 'bout gigantic killer crabs. Think you'll believe that one?"
Graze gives the fisherman a sour look, but continues on. "Like a said before, these things started showing up a couple weeks ago. Till then, we'd never seen nuthin' like it."
The fisherman answers Gry's question -- "They ain't kin. The big ones gotta diff'rent shape shell. Pointier. Eyes is wrong too. Big ones got a bit o' smarts to 'em. Not much, but not as plain dumb as this thing."
Graze nods along, and then carries on from where he left off. "They were last here two nights ago. They show up at night, looks like. You can stay upstairs. We gotta couple rooms."
This pronouncement gets the attention of the bartender the man earlier called Troyle. "Now hold on," he begins, but Spear Man cuts him off. "They gotta stay sumplace, for free I'd say."
Troyle puts his hands on his hips. "They drive off the Crabs, free is fine. They don't, I want some money."
Spear Man guffaws once and shoots back, "Troyle, they don't drive off the Crabs and you gonna find the Mug in pieces round your ears and your head on some Crab mantle."
Troyle fumes a bit, but has no answer. He waves his arm toward the stairs and stomps back into the kitchen. "I got food to make," he grumbles. The line is apparently an old standby, as the crowd in the hall give an obligatory chuckle.
Graze returns to the topic at hand. "We got watches set up with the militia. We got us a big bell we sound off when someone sees 'em. You do what you need to upstairs, and if you hear bells, get to the beach."
Spearman adds, "Jes follow the screamin'". Which earns him another look, but Graze's face says its most likely a true statement.
Tishe' and Stripes Sunday March 26th, 2006 10:18:41 PM
The girl pushes a stray lock of wavy brown hair behind an ear as she listens to the byplay of the villagers. "Looks like we get to talk to Shaylan when Shaylan is ready to listen." she tells Stripes, who is sniffing around for scraps and bones.
"I don't think we need anything fancy, we walk the Grass after all. For food; I've never tried crab..."
Curiouser and curiouser. There are some tales of giant sea animals down south and this is the first time of giant sea animals this far north. Why IS it that the crabs are coming ashore here. "Have the fishermen noticed any changes in the animal patterns in the water? And has the village recently gotten any new addition that might be a lure to the crabs?"
Answers or no, it looks like they'll camp here until the bell rings...
OOC: spell list forthcoming
Flea Monday March 27th, 2006 7:51:15 AM
Flea gets serious. She tries to remember how long it had been since the party had met the strange fey nature creature with his giant spider. "I wonder if these giant crabs have anything to do with that Ebyron guy?" she asks, "I wonder if we did the right thing back there?"
"Well, what's done is done," she concludes as she yawns mightily, and retrieves her pack, ready to to upstairs and catch a little shut-eye.
Anuk Monday March 27th, 2006 11:18:16 AM
Anuk drains another drink while listening to Graze's story. "Sir," he says when the talking is through, "I can't promise you we'll beat these crab things, but...well...we'll stay for the fight. At the first sound of bells or screamin', we'll be there. It's what we do."
Jake Monday March 27th, 2006 6:02:30 PM
A question has been nagging him ever since they first saw the Barons.. Jake breaks in rather angrily. "Why are you guys all grass-twined with the Barons?! Don't ya know the evils they do, the people they kill and enslave, the awful stuff they dun with disease and stuff? Are you their servants, or what? Ah don't get it, and don't see where'n ya can all be cozey with them unless yer a bunch of bootlickin' piggie dumps..."
Ulgren Monday March 27th, 2006 7:05:29 PM
Ulgren retreats to a quiet room or corner if no room is available and looks over his spellbook and then his scrolls. The drow quietly contemplates each scroll and the amount of time that ittakes to scribe them Ulgren finally settles on the first scroll and begins scribing. Ulgren begins scribing in the following order: Locate Object(2 hours), Mirror Image (2 hours), Color Spray (1 hour), and Feather Fall (1 hour). If there is not enough time Ulgren will scribe what spells he canin the time allotted. Ulgren then ensures his spells are ready and awaits the giant crab.
Trellus Monday March 27th, 2006 8:16:55 PM
Trellus wishes he could get hold of this Sharlon dude. Maybe she could help figure out why this is happening.
Guess we just wait, then he decides.
The cleric pauses long enough to hear the answer to Jake's question before going upstairs as well.
A place to stay (ADM MikeK) Monday March 27th, 2006 8:36:10 PM
Tishe asks if anything has changed in the water that might account for the crabs. The fisherman (his name still has yet to be mentioned) shakes his head. "Been jes' the same as always," he responds.
Flea asks her pack if maybe Eberyon has something to do with this. There is no good answer to that question, though.
Jake changes the pattern by asking about the Barons. The question get Trellus' attention, and the cleric listens in. Graze shrugs, "We hear a story or two, but the Barons have never done nothing to us." "Cept buy our catch," the fisherman cuts in. "You ask me, they good folks. They show up, pay a fair price, and leave afore they wear out their welcome. You don't screw around with the rapke, sure enough. But you leave them alone, they leave you alone. Works for me." Graze nods. "We really never had a problem with 'em," he confirms.
The Bloodpack is pretty tired out, and soon everyone is moving upstairs. The rooms turn out to be two large common rooms, each taking up half the floor. Bunkbeds line the walls, all of them configured for a human sized occupant. Except for the occasional elf, the town appears to be populated solely by humans.
Each room was occupied by a couple of locals, but when the Bloodpack enters one of them, its occupants decide to move across the hall. This gives our heroes a large 30 x 30 area with 12 bunkbeds lining the walls. They can be moved, and shoving three together will give Mac someplace decent to lie down. There is also a table and some benches in the middle of the area. It ain't much, but its got four walls, a roof, and a door. Windows in one wall overlook a rocky beach and the ocean beyond. Its utterly dark.
Please list watches. Assume you make it through the night and give spell lists as well.
Grymash Tuesday March 28th, 2006 2:06:52 AM
Grymash takes one of the more sturdier bunks and begins to prepare for the night. Other than oiling down his blades and armor, he decides to do a little reading from his book of Gargul before falling asleep.
Tishe' and Stripes Tuesday March 28th, 2006 5:16:56 AM
Tishe' comes to the sleeping room with a mind full of questions. "Hmmm, the Barons pay for what they want from these folk? Makes me more and more interested in visiting this Baron stronghold before going after the Olgian. Well, after the crabs anyways." she smiles and sits tailor fashioned on one of the bunks.
"Now then! I memorized four Identify spells this morning in the Grass, so let's check some of our winnings!"
Tishe' will Identify the first four things that people bring her (using up her spells and 400gp worth of pearls in the process)
Not a strategist, she takes whatever watch she is offered. And in the morning she memorizes spells. (OOC: when morning comes, I'll put her new spells on here. Til then, she's still on her old ones from the morning in the grass after the battle.)
Stripes hops up on the bunk where Tishe' sleeps and curls up like a very large lapdog at the foot of her bed. Ah, food and a den. What a good pack!
Mac (still available in the regular size) d20+5=8 d20+1=10 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 7:03:53 AM
In the room Mac takes the time to reorganise his pack, some beds, and places what might need to be grabbed in a hurry if the alarm goes up this night. Only once all preparations are complete does he relax and chat, play with Galea before she retires to the safety and comfort of the carrier.
Watch Checks: Spot:8, Listen:10
Anuk d20+12=22 d20+12=14 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 11:35:56 AM
Sleepy, sleepy, sleepy. The fine drink and dark atmosphere have done their work on Anuk and he's ready for some sack time. "A bunk?" he exclaims when they reach the room. "Light, how long has it been since I slept in one of those?" The softness of the mattress is a welcome contrast to the hard ground and soon he's snoring contentedly, waking only when it's time for his watch in the middle of the night. (takes the 2nd watch)
Spot 22, listen 14
morning spells: entangle, magic fang
Jake Tuesday March 28th, 2006 5:34:24 PM
(I wanna head off to Catacombs. I think I have enough to afford a little bonus thingie...) "You guys don't mind, ah think ah'm gonna tour this town a little before ah come back to rest. Ah... hey, Anuk, ah don't hardly ask for no favors, can y'all take my watch tonight, if'n ah might be a little too drunk or ..er, away or something."
Flea d20+9=22 d20+11=18 Tuesday March 28th, 2006 7:37:31 PM
In the big room Flea finds a corner in which to drop her pack. She sprawls on the floor, leaning against the HHHaversack, with her hands behind her head, staring at the cieling, and thinks. Flea thinks...and thinks...and thinks...until it feels like her head is going to explode. Sleep doesn't come easily.
The rogue volunteers for a middle watch, since she doesn't need too much sleep. During the watch she confides to her watch-mate (Anuk? Mac? Grymash?) her secret worries about the affairs of the Plains and Rattledam. "What if the Barons aren't all that bad? What if that's just what the monks of Rattledam teach, because...because they are afraid? What if the monks are the beaters?"
At least protecting these coastal folks from dangers that come from the sea is good. Isn't it? Flea wishes it were simpler to tell right from wrong, and the good-guys from the bad-guys.
Spot=22 Listen=18
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday March 28th, 2006 8:24:54 PM
Gilan has been silent through most of this conversation as he has been studying the crabs and thinking along the lines of combat. That hard shell will be something that could cause a problem but at least they do have soft spots.
He too is curious about this crab and will most likely settle for a little stew made from them or whatever turns up for supper. He shares a nice portion with his wolf which he notices draws some attention but nothing bad. Well these people do see rapke and bounders on a regular basis...most likely.
When it is finally time to turn in he moves upstairs with the rest of the pack and yawns. "I will take an late watch if that is ok...I can use the time to commune with Mother Wold." Looking to the bunks he shivers and then throws out his blanket upon the floor. If anyone asks he will comment on how he cannot sleep as well in a bed anymore...the ground or floor seems so much more comfortable.
MikeK - Can take back over April 2. If the battle has started can you drop me a line of what you decided to use for the crabs. Want to get a feel for them so that I can plan out strategy for the crusty crustaceons. :)
Ulgren Tuesday March 28th, 2006 10:04:21 PM
Ulgren takes the time to watch over his friends as they prepare to sleep and lay out watches. "I would prefer to take the first watch if I may, and the second as well since I have prepared my spells already." Ulgren continues to scribe as many spells as he can until called by the town or until his time to rest.
Trellus Wednesday March 29th, 2006 9:28:33 PM
Trellus sloughs off his equipment and collapses heavily into one of the bunks. "oooohhhh yeah," he breathes. "I needed that."
He takes note of all the watch offers and spits them back. "OK, Ulgren and Mac, me and Anuk, Gry and Flea, Tishe and Gilan." He doesn't mention Jake. As soon as he heard "ah'm gonna tour this town a little", the cleric put a big mental line through his friend's name.
If the night is uninterrupted, Trellus prepares he spells the next morning.
Good Night Moon (ADM MikeK) Wednesday March 29th, 2006 9:44:36 PM
Jake heads out to "explore" and finds many willing escorts. What he doesn't find is an entrance to the Catacombs. DM JimW told us the town was too small.
Ulgren scribes his scrolls, while Tishe offers to identify some of the loot OOC - I don't know what they are, so we'll need to wait on that.
The rest of the Bloodpack prepares itself and gets some sleep.
The night passes without incident. Everyone memorizes spells, and Ulgren has time to scribe the scrolls he wants. It appears there will be a day to plan and prepare.
Gilan and Ciaran Wednesday March 29th, 2006 10:29:57 PM
Gilan spends his night in restful sleep, till it is his turn to take up watch with Tishe'. He sits and talks with her most of the rest of the night to morning. He has not had a chance to talk of druid stuff with her and he has a feeling that changes will be happening soon.
When the sun is finally starting to come up he makes his way outside to greet the sun as he normally does. His morning devotions and song to the Wold Mother brings him a little more insight into his surroundings...the sights and morning sounds are way different than home and then there is all that water.
At last he makes his way back into the Mug and takes a seat at a table. He catches one of the few passing barmaids. "What do you serve usually for breakfast?" He will order whatever sounds good or sample a few different things that he has never had before.
Drop a note with your next post people as to what you want to identify and I will drop a note as to what you have. I just need to know what it is that you want to look at.
Tishe' and Stripes d20=18 Wednesday March 29th, 2006 10:36:42 PM
Morning dawns bright and refreshing, Tishe' is reluctant to get out of bed. "Last bed I slept in was mother's guest bed in Hook City" she complains good naturedly.
When she does rise it is with her morning devotions to Mother Wold (and a small penitent prayer for Father) and she studies her spellbook in the bright sunlight.
After getting a good hour in, she'll tell the others the spells she's selected and adds, "Ulgren's fire spells should be handy. I figure animal affecting spells can affect giant animals, and if it doesn't, I'll form summoned creatures out of those spells instead. " "With the two alarm spells, we can put them on the beach and bookend the village or place them more towards the middle; I just don't know."
And she will Identify a fifth magic item.
The remainder of her day will be spent in learning the village layout so they can best help defend, and in reassuring the shyer people that they are only dangerous to giant crabs (using prestidigitation to entertain (Perform untrained: 18)
Spells Memorized
Druidic 0; detect magic, detect magic, read magic, create water 1; detect animal, hide from animal, speak with animal 2; hold animal, animal trance
Arcane White; message, dancing lights, prestidigitation, flare, light Red; alarm, alarm, shield, identify, mount Orange; rope trick, glitterdust, scorching ray, web Green; lightning bolt, fly, summon III
Ulgren Thursday March 30th, 2006 7:32:44 AM
Ulgren sleeps through the last watch and wakes at dawn stretching and then quickly standing up. Ulgren walks to his corner and waits on his packmates to awaken and quickly falls back into scribing more scrolls into his spellbook. Blink (3 hours) and True Strike (1 hour), Resist Energy (2 hours), Darkness (2 hours). If additional time exists after those are finished the drow will scribe, Summon Monster III (3 hours), Polymorph (4 hours) and Unseen Servant (1 hour). After 16 hours of scribing scrolls Ulgren closes hsi spellbook and sighs knowing that the work was well worth it.
Anuk Thursday March 30th, 2006 12:25:59 PM
After TWO watches in the middle of the night Anuk wakes up slowly. His eyes sting as he blinks in the morning light. "So...any luck, Jake?" he asks with a tired grin when the half-elf stumbles back in. He yawns and stretches, remembering what details he can from the conversation the evening before.
"Well," he says when discussion turns to how best to deal with the crabs. "Ulgren's got fire and I've got my electric bow. Maybe we create a wall of fire on the beach and then flank it from the sides?"
Grymash Thursday March 30th, 2006 7:39:58 PM
As soon as Grymash gets up, he prays, has a bite to eat and then draws out his double axe and his battle stick (quarterstaff). "Ok ... it be time for Fightin' Training. Bloodpack be outsides in little bits. Time ta get beat on!"
Once outside, Grymash goes into some warm up exercises. Then starts in a routine of spinning, slicing and jabing with his double axe. Those big, heavy blades are nothing but a blur.
Trellus Thursday March 30th, 2006 9:28:39 PM
Trellus looks over the magic items that have not yet been identified:
ring(faint abjuration) ring(moderate transmutation) pair of boots(faint transmutation) pair of boots(faint abjuration and transmutation) amulet(moderate transmutation) amulet(faint transmutation)
"OK, since Tishe can Identify 5 items, lets do everything except the faint ring. You can use the pearls we got off the Raiders, so we really don't lose any money."
Talk turns to preparing for the crabs, whenever they come. "Let's find out where the Watch is, and if there are any places an Alarm spell might help," he suggests. "I like the Wall of Fire. Maybe we should try to keep them from going back into the water. Lets go through this just once, and kill 'em, and not have to wait around for them to come back."
Trellus turns to Jake. "Dude, I think I gotta way to give you the ability to cast a Strength spell on yourself whenever you want. Whaddya think?"
The blond man doesn't follow Grymash outside. He sees no need to get smacked around by his packmate.
The Day before (ADM MikeK) Thursday March 30th, 2006 9:33:43 PM
Gilan grabs some breakfast, and Grymash some excercise, and the rest of the Bloodpack makes plans.
A quick look around reveals the beach north of the Mug is sandy. A rock outcropping at the mug signals a change, and a rock face meets the water south of the Mug, and encompassing the majority of the town. The crabs have been coming up on the rocky shore, and that is where the watch is posted. No one is really watching from the Mug north or south of the southern most home of the village, about a half mile down the shoreline.
Time moves quickly. Please assume the whole day is moving by.
Ulgren Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:34:08 PM
Ulgren finishes scribing his scrolls and feels a large sense of accomplishment. The mage has rested and based on advice from his packmates takes the time to memorize a slightly different set of spells. Afterwards the mage walks down to the common room, orders supper and engages in some good old fashioned people watching.
Tishe' and Stipes Thursday March 30th, 2006 10:58:22 PM
Tishe' uses five of the pearls to Identify the - ring(faint abjuration) - ring(moderate transmutation) - pair of boots(faint transmutation) - pair of boots(faint abjuration and transmutation) - amulet(moderate transmutation)
She leaves the amulet(faint transmutation) and the last pearl for another day.
For the other treasure, the Bloodpack is getting ready for a battle and may need all the help they can. She suggests to pass out the scrolls in case they need to be used, and consider them party treasure.
6 hold person scrolls(arcane), she passes two to Ulgren, two to Flea, and keeps two herself 2 displacement scrolls(arcane), passes one to Ulgren and one to Flea. "I can't use Illusions" she explains. 2 neutralize poison scrolls(divine) she gives to Gilan and Trellus one each 4 ccw scrolls(divine) she sorts one each to Trellus, Gilan, Grymash and Tishe'
For plans, Tishe' pipes up but once. "I've got a water breathing potion. How many other water breathers do we have? If they retreat, how do we follow the crabs?"
The remainder of the day is spent getting knowledge of the surrounding terrain and entertaining the people who could use a little amusement.
Druidic 0; detect magic, detect magic, read magic, create water 1; detect animal, hide from animal, speak with animal 2; hold animal, animal trance
Arcane White; message, dancing lights, prestidigitation, flare, light Red; alarm, alarm, shield, identify, mount Orange; rope trick, glitterdust, scorching ray, web Green; lightning bolt, fly, summon III 6 cmw potions, 3 levitate potions, fly potion 6 white pearls(estimated value 100gps/gem)
Anuk d20+12=13 d20=10 d20+12=18 d20+12=28 d20+14=25 d20+9=12 Friday March 31st, 2006 10:46:28 AM
Responding to Tishe's comment about water breathing, Anuk says, "Water breathing spells could come in handy...wish I could help out there. I think Trellus is right about trying to keep them from going back into the water once they're on land...can we make 4 walls of fire? Box 'em in somehow? I'm figuring these things probably can't fly." Another thought occurs to him, "I wish I'd thought of this this morning, but can anyone here speak with animals? Maybe we can get some kind of idea what they're looking for right from them?"
He watches the whirling death Grymash calls 'fighting training' and says, "Thanks for the offer of practice, Gry, but I'd rather not be bruised up before the fight. Here...hit this instead." He spends time with Gry tossing old boxes, bits of wood, and whatever else he can find at the hulking cleric of Gargul for him to slice into, hopefully helping him hone his already keen reflexes.
He spends much of the day exploring the town, casually eavesdropping on conversations to see if any mention of the crabs comes up.But his mind is elsewhere and he can't seem to concentrate on whatever information he manages to pick up. (listen 13 - nat 1) Instead he recalls Gargul's promises of enforced immortality, and wonders what that might mean when the next fight comes.
Finally, he decides on the direct approach wanders into some of the towns small stores, spending money freely on a few trinkets and asking people present about what they've seen and heard when the crabs were here (gather info 10).
Lastly, he spends time wandering the coastline, looking for clues about these giant creatures. Something this big must've left some sort of trail or something, he thinks.
Spot 18 Listen 28 Survival (track) 25 Search 12
Gilan and Ciaran Friday March 31st, 2006 11:01:32 AM
Gilan spends most of his day pacing along the beach. He is looking to see where the crabs have come out at exactly. He hopes to figure how to set up some good ideas for battle. Ciaran paces along with him on the beach, enjoying the sand between his toes as well.
He shows up later at the Mug and moans as Gry announces it is time to spend a little time training. Since noone else seems ready to get the grass kicked out of them he moves to get pull a staff out of his pack and shakes his head. "Guess I will be first." He moves outside and just hopes that Gry plans on taking it a little easy.
He comes back in a lot later sore and bruised from his boute with Gry. "Remind me not to do that again." He hurts all over and Ciaran seems to think it is funny though he cannot laugh. You can see this grin on his lupin face and the sparkle in his eyes. Gilan flops down in one of the seats in the Mug and listens to the others. "I will need to figure out what I can take to help in that area...plus there are forms and help that we can call upon that should be able to help in the water...just remember the salt." He leans back as a cool mug of water is slipped onto the table for him. He takes a comforting drink and sighs but still hurts. He will take one of the scrolls so that he can make use of it during the battle. "Hang onto the Neutralize Poison and I also have a waterbreathing potion." He pulls it out and lays it upon the table.
Identified Items Ring of Protection+2 Ring of Improved Swimming Boots of Elvenkind Boots of the Winterlands Amulet of Health+2
Jake Friday March 31st, 2006 2:09:24 PM
Jake gets back to the group at breakfast, and looks, as expected, in a great mood. "Hey, darlin', er, sir, could ah get me some of that drinky stuff?" He rejoins up, sitting next to Anuk and Ulgren, and proceeds to vociferously recite his most recent adventures in last night. (To keep things all "PG", I will skip most of what he says. But needless to say, it is way too dirty for public consumption, and he doesn't mind saying it one bit.) "---so then I got up, and ah said to mahself, 'Ah'd better get outta here before her husband...' but looking back at her, had to revise that, 'er, father, gets back here'. But as ah was headin' out the door, her mother---" (Initially, I was thinking that's about all he could say, but then I figured that he probably sat out of reach of Gry and Mac, and the others lack the intimidation factor to get him to shut up. Or, they would be shocked into listening by what happens next. So, his escapades would probably continue.) "---So I got up again, now trust me, ah'd never been in a situation like this, so ah was uncertain what to do. But ah said to mahself, well, what's the reason we're outta Rattledam, but to explore foreign lands---" (Now by this point, anyone in the pack might be tempted to walk off. After all, Jake may be approaching the height of the story (to him), but to them it's already gone through more convolutions than Soap did. However, I hasten to remind you, Jake has a perform of +10 and a diplomacy of +12, so he can be quite the orator when he wants.) "---so I managed to get outta there without a scratch. Good thing ah always carry some rope with me, though." Jake finishes up and takes a sip of grass-dew. "So, what's the plan?"
Flea Friday March 31st, 2006 6:47:27 PM
Flea listens to Jake, and just shakes her head.
Grabbing something off the breakfast table, she heads down to the beach. Taking off her magic boots and packing them carefully in her HHHaversack, she carefully rolls her leggings up over her knees. The rogue proceeds to walk along the edges of the surf, enjoying the day, and the roll and roar of the surf.
"Dude?!!" Trellus breaks in on his packmate's extra long and extra interpersonal story. "You listening?"
"I said I think I gotta way to give you the ability to cast a Strength spell on yourself whenever you want. Whaddya think?"
Later, as he inspects the beach with Gilan and Anuk, he thinks back to the little scene. "Sunbaked ... " the cleric mutters to himself, and continues his search for places to set an Alarm spell.
Grymash Monday April 3rd, 2006 7:59:20 PM "Hey! Dudes? No packers wanna get some trainin'? Gilan do gute! Gilan got in some gute hits! Uhh sorry for dat lump. Gry be sure yooz would ducks down. No worries, Gilan do mores gute tomorrow!"
A turn for the worse. (DM Jim) Monday April 3rd, 2006 10:22:31 PM
Three days have passed and the group has had the chance to go over every inch of the beach...several times. The training continues and despite the bumps and bruises, Gilan is there everyday to take his licks.
There is a lot of beach to cover and those that know about alarm spells know that they cannot cover all of it. Still there seem to be certain areas that the crabs seem to emerge from the water. It is easy to set up the spells every night before the pack falls into sleep. With the help of the pack the small village has also been able to improve on thier own watches and to sound the alarm better.
Those that tour the beach find that it is not hard to find the path that the crabs take but they end some five feet from the waters edge. The incoming tide washes the prints away but it is not hard to figure the general path that is taken to exit and enter the water.
Jake is constantly being persueded by the young woman that he was caught with. The father is present several times giving him glaring looks but also seems to have a slight smirk as well. Jake does not seem to notice most of this though as it is a game to him but some of the others may sense some things going on.
Many things can be found washed up on the beach and the group that does walk it everyday find many of the following...shells, driftwood, seaweed, small crabs and an occassional bottle. Some things good for decorations and the like, some that maybe useful for use in making stuff.
The fourth day is wearing on and the villagers are starting to feel a little better. Some whisper that the presence of the Bloodpack has scared off the giant crabs, but others seem to see it as a little too convenient. It is just one of those nights in the Mug that a young man is seated talking with four others. He keeps shooting the Bloodpack dark looks and several times he motions in that direction. With a little more drink he becomes a lot louder with his talk and finally he turns in his seat to glare in the Bloodpacks' direction. "It was these filthy ones that started this whole thing. Bet they will show back up in a couple days after leaving to demand some reward and they will kill the crabs...oh and those beasts will have come back to attack our village." He is well into his drink and a lot of this is slurred. "Ya notice the attacks stopped when they showed up." Several of those inside the Mug have started to look in the Bloodpacks' direction and nodding heads.
Anyone that wants to craft anything...magical or mundane...can work on them over the three days.
Flea Monday April 3rd, 2006 11:49:02 PM
The rogue spends a lot of time alone down along the shore. She collects little bits of glass remnants worn smooth and deposited at the edge of the surf. Sometimes she just sits in the sand, leaning against the bulk of her pack and staring out at the rolling waves.
Anuk Tuesday April 4th, 2006 10:34:00 AM
Anuk notices the glares and nervously grins while giving a friendly wave back to the locals. "What gives with the animosity?" he says in a low voice to Trellus. "You'd think it'd be shady to be attack-free for a while."
Ulgren Tuesday April 4th, 2006 11:15:28 AM
Ulgren enjoyed the respite scribing new spells into his spellbook and people watching. The drow spent several hours each evening watching the crowds in the common room of "The Mug" nursing his bruises and lumps from Gry's lessons each morning always vowing to not offer to spare. Ulgren was in his usual corner table when the drunk man begins to spew his accusations. The drow sprang to his feet and approached the man, one hand in his component bag and the other held near his rapier. "My pack have not and will not ever cause harm to you and yours for profit." Ulgren flatly stated, staring at the drunk intently, silver eyes flashing. "If anyone here wishes to believe that we are the cause of your misfortune, stand announce it and be a man about it. However remember this, we have stayed because we were asked. We didn't know why we were pointed in this direction, but in this direction we came. You asked for help and we agreed to do whatever we could." Ulgren looks at the drunk and his four friends , "If you choose to listen to a man who gets his courage from a bottle so be it. I'll be outside if anyone wishes to pursure this matter further." Ulgren slid his goggles over his eyes and stalked outside where he stood facing the door. Once outside the drow cast an extended Mage Armour and continued to wait.
Trellus (Sub/Al) Tuesday April 4th, 2006 11:24:40 AM
The cleric shrugs his shoulders.
"It's peace, 'Nuk," he replies. "Peace can shorten memories some."
Trellus shrugs again.
"Or it could be Jake."
"Just a minute, Ulgren. Lets not have weapons here."
Trellus stands, taking his mug of ale with him. He walks over to the table at which the man is sitting.
"What makes you say that, Friend? Why don't I buy us another round and we can talk about it. Mind if I sit? You know, talking over problems seems to me to be a much better idea than stirring up hate and discontent. Especially when you consider that if we are the one's who sicced those crabs on you we'd have to be pretty powerful. Powerful enough to take whatever we wanted, I'd think. Powerful enough, I'd think, that you wouldn't want to go picking a fight with us in a tavern."
"Good thing we're peaceable folks, isn't it? I think that all in all it's best to just enjoy our drinks and talk."
"I'm Trellus. What's your name?"
Jake Tuesday April 4th, 2006 7:51:41 PM
Jake doesn't hear the insults, as his attention would probably be focused on another object of desire. Maybe even a new one, as time does pass quickly, and perhaps there are more interesting objects to be found in this village. In any case, right now he'd probably merely be scouting, preparing a battlefield, and the like.
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday April 4th, 2006 8:16:49 PM
Gilan looks to the five men seated at the table and a low rumble begins in his throat. He has been feeling a little odd lately...like a more primal side has been coming out of him. Many of his little trips to the beach leave him wandering the great stretch of it, several miles from the village.
As first Ulgren and then Trellus come forward to comfront the men, though with different tactics...he cannot help but want to just rip some limbs off...maybe crunch some bones. "Would be fun to cause a little hurt." This comes out as an almost hiss as he glares down the men.
His pack having spent so much time with him have noticed suttle changes in his behavior and appearance. Getting meat that is only partially cooked, the rumbles of anger from his throat and his new wilder appearance. That is the most noticeable as his eyes have taken on a more wild look, his nails have grown into what could be called claws and if anyone cared to pay attention...the prominence of his canines, both lower and upper.
Got Crabs???? (DM Jim) Tuesday April 4th, 2006 11:12:21 PM
Graze enters the door and hears part of the comments thrown out by the young man, but he hangs back. He wants to see how the Bloodpack deals with it and he smiles as some seem to want to bash some heads, while the one who he guesses is the leader tries a little diplomacy. In his younger days he would have been one of those that knocked the man's block off.
The young man looks up as Ulgren comes over and speaks. Laughing in the drows face he still slurs his words some. "Bah...anyone can speak those words...I say you are no better than a mercenary." He looks back to his four partners who are snickering about the whole deal. "I say nothing will happen till they leave...then the monsters attack again and they come back to bleed us dry." He laughs again but it quickly dies as Ulgren speaks again and the man turns red with anger. "I will see you outside drow." The last is spit out and is more of an insult.
As Ulgren moves outside of the Mug and waits for the man, most likely with his cronies...Trellus is quick to step in to head things off. Still the young man is not about to take up anyone of an offer, not even for free booze. "Or maybe you are lackies of someone...he would not mind if you died...means more for him." He stands with a swift move and looks to the door. His four buddies stand as well and you can tell that things are going to go bad here.
The five of them roughly push past Trellus and head for the door, only to find it blocked by Graze. Graze has a cold look upon his face and a club in his good hand. The bartender has also shown up, a little off to the side, with a club of his own. Graze speaks in a clear and level voice but never takes his eyes off the young man. "Marcus...you don't want to do this. You are drunk and I will not allow this to happen." His eyes rove over everyone in the bar, taking note of those with drawn steel. "I will not allow these strangers to be hurt...they offer to help...they are under my protection and we have gone several days before with no attacks." Marcus makes a move to shove past Graze who steps to the side and the club finds the back of the man's head. Marcus goes out like a light and his four friends back up, their hands help before them. The bartender steps over shaking his head and then motions the four to their friend. "Take him home boys and let him sleep it off." Graze catches each of thier eyes as they step forward and life the lifeless form of thier friend. "You touch that man out there and I will hang everyone of you." His tone and manner brooks no arguements and the men nod as they swallow a lump. Ulgren will see the four men come out of the Mug holding their unconscious friend between them. They look sheepishly at the drow and then continue on into the night.
As things settle down Graze moves to the table that the Bloodpack is seated at. "I am sorry about that...Marcus is a good man, but has a fondness for the drink and trouble." Slipping the club back into his belt he runs his hand through his hair and sighs. "I will see you in the morning." With that he moves back outside of the Mug and most likely to his home.
With things more or less under control now and the hour getting late the bartender comes over. "Please feel comfortable here and don't take it personally...it is nice to be free of attacks at least for awhile. My wife and I actually sleep better knowing that you are here to help." He gives you all a smile and then moves off to get some sleep.
Jake finds himself caught by a young redhead near the door before he has a chance to retire for the night. She is plying him with her charms and seems to be getting somewhere with them.
It is early morning, maybe around five, when the alarm bells go off. Then the peaceful morning is brought to a crashing halt by the sounds of a scream of pain, followed by several more screams. They all seem to be coming from outside of the Mug and down near the beach.
Jake needs to make a Diplomacy DC 16 or end up going home with this young lady. Also a Spot DC 14 to see an older man in the corner of the room watching the two of you with some interest.
Need a watch order. Do those that have last watch, do this outside or inside of the Mug? If outside the beach is a fair piece away and not easily seen from the outside of the Mug. You could also spend watch on the balcony of the second or third floor, which would allow you to see out to the beach and part of the sea.
Spot DC 12 to notice that four others have drawn steel in the Mug. Sense Motive DC 12 to realize that they are on the drunk man's side.
Tishe' and Stripes Tuesday April 4th, 2006 11:43:47 PM
Dazed by Jakes incredibly long and lewd yarn, Tishe' shakes her head, "I feel I've lost a day of my life right now."
The three days pass quickly for the young girl, who also practices with her oaken quarterstaff with Grymash, Gilan, and Ulgren. After all, if she gets too hurt, Grymash can heal her up again!
Not present in the tavern at the instigation (taking a bath, you know) and following the same watch schedule from the first night, Tishe' is awakened by the bells, the watch, and Stripes yipping at the foot of her bed. She chucks her night pants and loose shirt and quickly girds for battle; bracers, cloak satchel, and 'grass pants o' plenty. And she is ready to run out of the Mug.
Outside, Tishe' (followed by a faithful Stripes) collects her bearings and, with the others, heads towards the fight.
Druidic 0; detect magic, detect magic, read magic, create water 1; detect animal, hide from animal, speak with animal 2; hold animal, animal trance
Arcane White; message, dancing lights, prestidigitation, flare, light Red; alarm*, alarm*, shield, identify, mount Orange; rope trick, glitterdust, scorching ray, web Green; lightning bolt, fly, summon III
NOTICE!!!! (DM Jim) Wednesday April 5th, 2006 5:04:00 AM
Just thought of something that I thought I should point out as both DM and a player.
I gave three days downtime. That mean that if you want the rest of those items could be identified if you all want. Just let me know if you do and Tishe' could cast the spell if she wants.
Just an idea if the group would like to make use of any of the items in this battle. :)
Trellus (Sub/Al) d20+9=27 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 12:54:10 PM
Trellus shrugs. Some dudes just have no sense no matter how much you talk to them. And better Graze handle this than having more bad feeling fall on the Pack.
"Thanks," Trellus waves as Graze leaves the Inn. "See you in the morning."
Jake doesn't seem too interested in casting his own spell. And the others in the Inn, they all look ... hostile is a good word. (Spot 27)
Trellus shakes his head. Some days, you have to wonder whether it's worth getting out of bed.
"I'm gonna call it a day," he informs the Pack. "I'll stand last watch." From the table, he picks up one of the magic items, the Ring of Improved Swimming. "I'll take this for now. Anyone wants it more, speak up." And he slips it on his finger.
The cleric wakes for last watch. As the morning, he wanders outside. Praying to Domi, Trellus makes a few adjustment in his spells for the day. And that's where things find him when the Alarms go off and things just start happening.
"Knew it couldn't last. Just as well." The alarms will call the rest of the Pack. Trellus casts a spell on himself before heading down to the beach.
Active Effects Owl's Wisdom (Duration 8 minutes from Tuesday April 4th, 2006 10:12:21 PM)
Spells Prepared: d -- domain spell u -- used 0 - Create Water (x3), Detect Magic (x2), Read Magic 1 -- Shield of Faith (x2), Obscuring Mist, Doom, Prot from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary(d) 2 -- Lesser Restoration, u-Owls Wisdom, Spiritual Weapon (x2), Bulls Strength (d) 3 - Dispel Magic, Waterbreathing, Prayer, Searing Light, Magic Vestment(d) 4 -- Air Walk, Inflict Critical Wounds, Freedom of Movement, Spell Immunity (d)
Grymash Wednesday April 5th, 2006 8:02:37 PM
After things calm a little, he turns to his packmates and says, "Gry be proud of yaz who be trainin' fightin' and taken ya lumps. Yooz dudes get betters real gute!" The half-orc then points to a lump on his own head. "Looks, one of yazz got Gry wit da battle stick!! Gry no remembers who, but Gry say dat be shady. Yooz be beaters in no times at all!" Holding up a mug to the barkeep, Grymash anounces, "Brings more drinks for da Bloodpackers ... on Gry!!"
Anuk d20+12=23 d20+2=16 Wednesday April 5th, 2006 8:06:27 PM
Anuk, wary of Marcus and his friends (spot 23, sense motive 16) keeps a hand on the hilt of his longsword until the confrontation is over. "Well spoken, Trellus," he says to the cleric and raises a mug in his direction. "I'd rather save the fight for the crabs." When it's time to rest, he sleeps hard with the exception of his watch in the middle of the night. In the morning, the screams bring him awake quickly. "Light," he mutters as he dons his armor and weapons. "Looks like the town's lucky streak just ran out." He charges out into the early morning air toward the beach.
LOG ON