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Epilogue: Rest in Peace

Heading for home at last (DM Cayzle)
Thursday May 11th, 2006 2:37:18 PM
The elves are happy to go to Plateau City when they discover that that is the party's destination. "Better Parnoth's slave than a buggy experiment," says one, "but better free in a city of humans than enslaved in a kingdom of elves," says another.

Monthor looks at the Sage's bloody head with a feeling ... is that satisfaction?

Then the living among the party (along with loot and lifeless bodies) benefit from Tratain's and Arien's magic, and in a flash they are all gone.

The spirits of Sarigar and Black Paws remain alone. Is it time for them to leave too, or will they stay to haunt this battle scene.

The Hamleteers find themselves enjoying the benefits of civilization again. Where will you go? What will you do?

An early order of business is the loot. With a little effort, it is all identified:

headband of int +4
amulet of wis +4
pearl of power (recalls a 7th level spell)
ring of evasion
ring of protection +5
ioun stone +1 caster level
7 elixers of hiding
7 elixers of sneaking
vestments of setanos +2 caster level to a worshipper of jancassis
a bead of karma
wand of cure serious wounds (22 charges)
wand of magic missile (9th level) (43 charges)
wand of cure modierate wounds (40 charges)
wand of magic missile (5th level) (45 charges)
2 tubs of healing ointment
lesser rod of still spell
lesser rod of empower spell

20,000 gp in gold, platinum, gems, etc.
5,000 gp in luxury goods and rare books

Monthor ooc>
Thursday May 11th, 2006 3:30:22 PM
What about the sage's spell books?

=====

Cayzle: Both sets were destroyed by the party.

Sarigar and Black Paws d20+5=14 d20+5=22
Thursday May 11th, 2006 3:52:04 PM
As the pack teleports away, the brothers figured they would go along, but find they are, in fact, left behind. Dejected, they wander about the lair for a short time, but eventually make their way to the surface and the surrounding forest. Perhaps someone out there can see and hear them and help.

Before they know it, they find they are moving more easily than than normal. As they glance down, they find that their feet are no longer in contact with the ground. Shocked at first, they don't watch where they're going and notice far too late that they're about to run into a tree. All they can do is throw their hands up and brace for the impact...that never comes. They tumble clumsily throught he tree and rise unbelieving, still several feet off the ground.

Out of curiosity adn hope that someone can hear and help them, they shout out..."HELLO!?! CAN ANYONE HEAR US?!?" They wait for a response, but can't help but to try some more of this flying thing. Plus, it helps them stay above the rivers of blood that keep pulling on them.

Though they try to stay aloft, the blood pulls strongly on them and they find it more and more difficult to hold on, but hold on they do, at least for a little longer.

================================================

Actions

Will Save DC19 - 14 and 22

Renik
Thursday May 11th, 2006 4:35:19 PM
Once back in the city Renik cries "Now let us get Sarigar and his brother to the temple! There is no time to lose! The longer we delay the greater the risk of losing him for good!"

Monthor
Thursday May 11th, 2006 5:26:18 PM
ooc> DOH!!!! I remember now but can someone explain to me why the spell books were destroyed?!?!?!?

:: Monthor lifts Black Paws and follows after Renik. ::

Feng
Thursday May 11th, 2006 8:56:32 PM
Feng would very much enjoy a nice hot bath. The grime that has been coating his body is nearly nauseating. But first Sarigar must be taken to the temple.

"Hopefully it is not too late."

Tratain
Friday May 12th, 2006 4:53:36 PM
Tratain says "lets get to the Temple of Gargul and see if they will help us petition Gargul to Return the souls of Sarigar and Black Paws to us."

Draax
Friday May 12th, 2006 8:45:49 PM
Draax agrees with the others. He leaves with the others as they go to the temple.

Arien
Friday May 12th, 2006 11:43:13 PM
Arien breathes a small breath of relief when they finally arrive at Plateau City, almost not believing that the ordeal with the Sage was over. When Renik speaks Arien nods in agreement and helps the party bring the brothers to the temple.

(Arien destroyed the Sage's library for two reasons, one to destroy the Sage's work should he have fled and two to make sure no one else would be able to pick up where the Sage left off. Plus as a member of the Star Mage's guild Arien has access to all the spells in the book so I don't need them for copying.)

Plateau City (DM Cayzle)
Saturday May 13th, 2006 7:38:44 AM
By the way, where is it that you popped into here in Plateau City? Arien is certainly familiar with the "landing pads" of the Star Tower, those inscribed circles designed to be teleported into with no chance of error. But where would Tratain's Word of Recall take the group?

Back in the city, two of the three elves high-tail it away, and you hear one say something about wine. But one elf remains -- the one who was clever enough to avoid recapture.

"Before I take my leave, good heroes, please tell me who you are, so that I can tell my children the names of the champions who defeated the Vermin Sage Sahnhan."

Several people want to bring the dead immediately to the Temple. But which Temple? The House of Gargul?

As you travel through the city to your destination, you see that some of the ravages of the Fae King's reign have been repaired. In fact, you see a group of three squat flying fellows -- surely fey of some kind? -- working on repairs to a building. The stone flows under their touch, smoothing cracks and also forming whimsical patterns and stone gingerbread. The building will soon be much sounder, if maybe a little odd-looking.

The elf waits eagerly for your answer, walking along with the group. He offers his own name -- Telfalas.

Feng
Monday May 15th, 2006 1:11:38 AM
Feng places his hand on his chest and bows slightly. "I am Feng, Paladin of the Woldian Gods. Your praise is not necessary. We did what was right. What was necessary."

Monthor
Monday May 15th, 2006 9:35:43 AM
" Me be Monthor of the Axe Head Clan. Be sur skinny one to tell your children that Mighty Sarigar and the even mightier Black Paws gave their lives to save you and the other two elves. And make sur to tell everyone that no one... NO ONE messes with the Hamletteers! Not even Serge. "

ooc> Gargul's would be the place to go. The treasure discussion is being done by email.

Sarigar and Black Paws d20+5=6 d20+5=9
Monday May 15th, 2006 3:43:46 PM
The brothers test their flying and the even more neat ability to pass through objects. More than once, the thought of whether this is what it's like for the tree-lady when she steps into her tree. Once or twice, they step into a tree and just stand there, but quickly get bored as there is absolutely nothing to see or hear.

They travel further and further out into the wild lands looking for someone, anyone and they try valiantly to stay above the rivers of blood. Inevitably, they drift slowly downward until they land, straddling a rivulet. Their knees begin to shake, until they fall to their knees.

Slowly, the pull brings them down on their hands as well as they hold themself just inches from the blood. Just as they're about to make one final push away from the rivulet, they feel something..."Mother? Is that you?"

The distraction is enough and they slip into the river, pulled along by its embrace toward the Lands of Rest.

================================================

Actions

Will Save DC20 - 6 and 9

Renik
Monday May 15th, 2006 3:53:52 PM
The rogue bows low.

"My companions and I are known as the Windhorn Hamleteers, Telfalas. My name is Renik Dacour. It is always a pleasure to help a fellow in need, and we are glad we were able to help you and your friends escape the sage's clutches.

And though I would speak with you further, and learn more of the events that led you to that dreadful place, our immediate priority is the welfare of our fallen comrade. We must leave at once to petition Lord Gargul himself for his soul.

Fare well sir, and mark good Monthor's words well; if you remember nothing else of this band, spread word of the brothers who fell to save you, Sarigar and Black Paws."

Noting the architectural changes being effected upon Plateau City the rogue reflects that every tragedy inevitably leads to growth, in civilization just as in nature. But there is no time for such musings. Renik encourages haste.

"To the Black Cathedral at once, my friends. With every second we delay our friend grows farther from us!"

Draax
Monday May 15th, 2006 5:21:06 PM
Draax nods to Telfalas, "Just call me Draax." He agrees with Renik and begins helping the others with the bodies of the brothers.

Tratain
Monday May 15th, 2006 5:51:00 PM
Tratain introduces himself to the Elf.

He tells the others "I agree with Renik, we should head directly to the Temple of Gargul, so that we may petition Lord Gargul for the souls of our friends."

At the Temple of Death (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday May 16th, 2006 1:02:47 AM

Telfalas bows his head and thanks you all again. "Your valor and sacrifices will not go unnoticed! Fare well, brave heroes!"

But the group has no time for kudos. You press on to the Temple of Gargul. You are shown to an antechamber, and you may note that divinations confirm you are who you say you are before you are ushered into the office of a high ranking Eye of Gargul.

This is Father Meckett, and by the shadow he does not cast, you might (Religion DC10, Arcana DC15) deduce that he is a Grim of Gargul, one of those who work to make sure that the souls of the dead go where they are meant to go, and do not wander the Wold in torment.

"One or two of your compatriots has passed to the afterlife," he says, motioning to the corpses. "And you seek to petition the Dread Lord about restoring their lives."

"Are you sure that your friend wants to be raised? How do you know? And if they are willing, are you willing to make whatever sacrifice the Lord of Death demands? There is no knowing what he will require."

Black candles flicker and shadows dance in the small audience chamber. The priest is dressed in simple black. There is a smell of incense ... and something else, under that, tickling the nose.

Feng d20+5=24
Tuesday May 16th, 2006 9:54:49 AM
"We have to try good father. Our companions fell because of our inaction and wrong decisions. We know not what the mighty Gargul will decide but we have to try. Could you not tell us if his spirit is at rest or wandering the wold with unfinished buisness?"

ooc: religion check 24

Monthor
Tuesday May 16th, 2006 10:25:50 AM
"Me agree with Feng.... Did me just say that? Can we commune with the brothers' spirits to find out what they want?"

Sarigar and Black Paws
Tuesday May 16th, 2006 12:01:18 PM
The brothers find themselves carried along by the currents of the rivers of Woldsblood. The time they spend in the rivers seems both incredibly long, but also as short as the span of time betwene heartbeats. They don't fight the current, they allow it to carry them along, almost having fun in the whoosh and flow.

Finally, the river deposits them on a shore. For a moment, they are exhausted. Even giving themselves freely to the flow didn't stop them from "keeping their head above water". They kneel upon the shore, slumped over on their hands breathing heavily. For several long minutes they try to catch their breath until can finally throw their head and chest back and bay loudly at the Lands of Rest..."HHHHOOOOOOOOWWWWWWLLLLLL!!!!"

They rise slowly to their feet and finally take in the scene around them. It's not unlike that which they saw in Maab's realm. For the moment, no one is around and all they can hear is the river lapping at the shore. They look back to see that it's no longer a river of blood, but an immense lake of the purest water they've ever seen. The grass seems so greem and alive. They takes in a deep breath and the smells are so intense, but soothing. They close their eyes and allow all their other senses to find the world around them.

Finally, their eyes snap open when they hear a voice on the breeze, "Come to me my Child." One thought of who the voice belongs to comes to mind...The Mother. They can feel themselves being drawn in a particular and begin walking that way.

Renik
Tuesday May 16th, 2006 1:07:29 PM
Renik bows his head as Father Mekett enters. He notes the absence of shadow with curiosity, but lacks any real understanding of the church, and does not associate the phenomenon with the priest's role.

"Sir, in truth we know not if our companion wishes to return. We cannot know for certain. But I do know the joy and intensity with which he lived his life, and courage with which he lost it. If he wishes to return we owe it to him to help if we can.

You speak of sacrifice sir; the sacrifice Sarigar made was that of his very life to save the lives of complete strangers. If he was willing to make that ultimate sacrifice, how can we in good conscience do less? If Lord Gargul has a price to be paid, we will pay it if we are able."

He thinks back to his last meeting with the Lord of Life and Death with some discomfort. On that occasion his subconscious seemed determined to betray him at every turn, filling his mind with treacherous thoughts. He is not looking forward to this encounter, though he knows it is necessary.

Draax
Tuesday May 16th, 2006 10:01:34 PM
"I agree with everyone else, the only way we can know their wishes is to try and bring them back."

A Visitation (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 7:38:04 AM
Father Meckett nods at Monthor. "Yes, it is possible." He steps over to Sarigar's remains and snips a small lock of hair.

He guides you all to an alcove with a basin. The basin is filled with water. The priest shimmers and then becomes insubstantial and shadowy. He opens a vial and pours it in the basin. He invokes some magic that is utterly unfamiliar to the casters of the group.

Sarigar feels distracted in the lands of the dead. He sees his friends appear before him. They are like shadows, and a man with them is more substantial. The man says, "Here are friends reunited for a brief time beyond death, through Gargul's mercy. Speak now, and be quick."

The living see Sarigar and Black Paws full of vigor and health. They are standing in a grassy field -- the grass seems more alive than grass can be in the Wold. The sky seems brighter, bluer. It is as if everything were intensified beyond mortal standards.

A short while ago, maybe Sarigar would have gone back to his friends. But now there is a voice calling to him. Will the power of that pull keep him in the lands of rest?

And for those still alive, maybe it is better that the conversation be short -- no mortal can look for long on that vibrant scene and escape untouched.

[OOC: Post as often as you want to have your conversation.]

Monthor
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 8:42:39 AM
A small tear falls trickles down the ugly dwarve's face... this is a very emotional moment for Monthor, seeing the brothers like this.

" A hero's reward indeed my friends.... SARIGAR! BLACK DOGGY!!! IT'S MONTHOR!!! DO YE WANT US TO BRING YE BACK TO THE WOLD MY FRIENDS!!! "

Sarigar and Black Paws
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 10:38:43 AM
Seeing the shadows of their packmates appear before them, the brothers are taken aback for a moment. But, something about this seems normal to them, like it's ok. The others can see the brothers images shifting, merging and splitting constantly. The stuff of their souls must truly be linked far more than they all suspected.

"Hey guys! Can you see this place? It's like home, but better. And we think we hear Mother calling us."

As Monthor 'screams' his greetings and questions, the brothers can help but recoil slightly at his volume. "Brought back? We're right here? Why do we need to be brought back?"

Feng
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 3:32:38 PM
"Sarigar you are no longer among the living. The question is simple. Do you wish to return to the world of the living or remain in the land of rest?"

Sarigar and Black Paws
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 3:47:31 PM
"No longer among the living?"

The brothers ponder this for a moment. They feel alive, more alive than they have in a long time. So how are they not living? Then the memory of seeing the others carrying around what must have been their bodies and the way they could pass through things and they way the world seemed to fade from view floods through their mind.

"We're...dead? But...but...how? I know we hurt for a bit, like we were burned, but then everything was ok and we felt better." Their brow furls in thought as they try to make sense of things.

And in their typical style and chaotic thinking, a smile comes over their face..."I think Mother's here. Wouldn't that be great?"

Draax
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 10:41:04 PM
Draax adds his comments, "Sarigar, we do not think it was your time to leave this world and we would like you to return, but you have to want to return. We cannot force you; the decision is your's and your brother's. You need to make the decision now while this world still has a hold on you. We can ask Gargul to return your souls to your bodies, but if you wait too long, returning to this world will no longer be an option."

Arien
Wednesday May 17th, 2006 11:39:23 PM
Arien watches the conversation awhile before he speaks, when he does it is softly. "I you wish to go to the Mother we understand and wish you well. Know this though, there are those here who would miss your presence and will feel sorrow at your absence. I feel that there is much to be done still in this world, much to be set right in the Wold. If you feel the same then I ask you to return and aid us in this unending task."

Renik
Thursday May 18th, 2006 5:47:49 AM
The rogue can't help but smile at the sight of his companion, so vibrant and at peace. His joy is bittersweet though; looking at his friend he can see he is in a better place, a place where he feels at home, and with tears pricking at his eyes he feels a sudden certainty that this is their last farewell.

He grins as the party speak to the wild man, and grins more broadly as Sarigar tries to make sense of everything that has happened. He steps forward and says

"Sarigar, Blackpaws, my packmates, my brothers. It is true that you have "died". You have moved to a new world, one where we your packmates cannot join you. But it is a world where "Mother" lives.

If you want to come back to your packmates you can. Or if you want to go on and find Mother you can do that. I think I know your heart, my friend, I know what you've always desired. That amulet around your neck has always called you on. If you wish to come back to us we can do our best to make it so. But if you wish to go then do so with our blessing and with our love. The decision is yours, my friend."

Renik finds himself welling up as he speaks.

The Magic Begins to Wane (DM Cayzle)
Thursday May 18th, 2006 6:16:23 AM
The priest of Gargul speaks with strain in his voice. "Quickly now! The magic will soon end. Say what must be said!"

Sarigar and Black Paws
Thursday May 18th, 2006 10:46:10 AM
Tears of mixed emotion well in the brothers' eyes as they hear what has happened to them and that the pack can't join them here. Everything here just feels right and the best part, Mother seems to be here.

"We...<sniff>...we've lost a lot of brothers and sisters. And, we guess we've lost you all now too, but not like the others. But Mother is here and she seems happy that we are too. We think she wants us to do something, but we think it has to be done here. We'll miss running with the pack, but we'll be running with the Mother's pack now. We need to stay here with Mother."

The brothers look back over their shoulder as if they hear something, then turn back to the others. "Well, gotta go now. Bye." And with that, the brothers turn away and bound off toward a forest treeline. The smile of satisfaction and contentment on their face shows a peace you've never seen on the brothers before, not even at the times where they've seemed happiest.

[ooc: I've had fun guys, but due to personal and religious concerns, I will soon be leaving the Wold as a whole. The fact that Sarigar died shortly before my descision was strictly coincidence. I wish you all the best, both in and out of the Wold. Godspeed.]

Draax
Thursday May 18th, 2006 1:04:39 PM
Draax smiles when he hears Sarigar's decision; he hopes when it is his time to go that he will find that type of peace. He waves one last time to the brothers as they depart.

(OOC: Thanks for the fun times Philip, it was great gaming with you. Best of luck in the future.)

Fare well, and how much did you say that would cost? (DM Cayzle)
Friday May 19th, 2006 8:05:27 AM
The heroes say their farewells to Sarigar, sad to part, but glad that he is in a happy place.

[Carl and Philip, would you two be so good as to put together a list of Sarigar's possessions, make a reasonable estimate of which ones might have been destroyed by Scorching, and let us know what you come up with? Thanks!]

As the magic fades away, the priest of Gargul seems very satisfied with himself. "It is good that we used this magic," he says, "since Lord Gargul does not appreciate it when he is asked to raise someone who is content in the Lands of Rest."

"I am sure that you all are very grateful too. That miracle is one that only Eyes of Gargul can invoke, and the components are rare and fabulous."

He seems to be hinting at something. Sense Motive DC12 to Highlight to display spoiler: { sense that he wants a donation.}

"And how," the priest adds, "were you thinking of making the funeral arrangements?"

Monthor
Friday May 19th, 2006 8:11:30 AM
Monthor stays silent as a tear runs down his cheek...

ooc> Sorry to see you go Phil.

Feng
Friday May 19th, 2006 10:35:17 AM
Feng is happy for Sarigar. One struggles all their life to earn a place among their god's realm in the afterlife. Sarigar earned such a place and from this point on he would know a kind of peace that he was always looking for.

Sarigar and Black Paws d3=2 d2=2 d20+13=24 d20+13=30 d20+13=19 d20+13=28 d20+13=22
Friday May 19th, 2006 11:16:49 AM
Hmmmm, Sarigar was not directly attacked by the spells, but the damage was transferred to him via the brothers shared hit points. Do his items need to save? I definitely understand Black Paws needing to since he was hammered by both rays directly.

I'm assuming a Fort Save as it was a physical attack. 10 + 2nd level + I'm guessing +5 for the corresponding ability score = DC17. If the saves are Reflex, then all saves are 1 points less.

According to the SRD,

Items Surviving after a Saving Throw: Unless the descriptive text for the spell specifies otherwise, all items carried or worn by a creature are assumed to survive a magical attack. If a creature rolls a natural 1 on its saving throw against the effect, however, an exposed item is harmed (if the attack can harm objects). Refer to Table: Items Affected by Magical Attacks. Determine which four objects carried or worn by the creature are most likely to be affected and roll randomly among them. The randomly determined item must make a saving throw against the attack form and take whatever damage the attack deal.
If an item is not carried or worn and is not magical, it does not get a saving throw. It simply is dealt the appropriate damage.

The progression follows: Shield, Armor, Magic helmet, hat, or headband, Item in hand, Magic cloak, Stowed or sheathed weapon, Magic bracers, Magic clothing, Magic jewelry, Anything else. This progression explains the order I chose below (Clothing items were selected randomly in alphabetical order).

Sarigar's Belongings and the commensurate saves (if needed)

1) +2 Leather Armor with Silent Moves (Save 24)
2) +1 Sling (Save 30)
3) +2 Gloves of Dexterity (Save 19)
4) Monk's Belt (Save 28)

Ring of Chameleon Power
+2 Amulet of Natural Armor
Heward's Handy Haversack
Boots of Elvenkind

Black Paws Items and the commensurate saves
+3 Bracers of Armor (Save 22)

All items should have saved unless the Sage had some abilities/feats to beef the DC by +2 or more, then the Gloves are toast =(

In the Haversack there is a veritable treasure trove of worthless items (Ration equivalents (5 days), Bear Hide "Winter Blanket", Bell, Candle x5, Map case w/ random map inside, Chain 10ft, Chalk x10 (mostly in pieces), Crowbar, Flask (empty), Hammer, Lock (average), Manacles, Mirror (small steel), Crumpled Parchment x10, Rope (50ft, hempen), Sack x3, Signal Whistle, Shovel) as well as a TON of cash (3 copper pieces, 4 silver pieces, 10 gold pieces, 10 platinum pieces, 27,800gp in gems or other items (most of this is from the Woldcon reward that never got spent)).

=====

[Cayzle: Thanks Philip. Nothing was destroyed.]

Arien
Saturday May 20th, 2006 9:08:40 PM
Arien bows his head a moment when Sarigar decides to stay with his Mother and then stands and looks to Renik, "There is much to be done and if histroy proves itself true, little time to do it in. I am going to go to the Star Mage's guild and see about adding more spells to my book, perhaps if I am better prepared then next time something...like this will not happen."

That said Arien takes his leave and heads to the Star Mage's guildhouse.

Draax d20=5
Saturday May 20th, 2006 10:49:03 PM
Draax does not realize that the priest is hinting at something, but he wants to give the man something for his troubles. Draax pull out a bag of platinum pieces worth 2000 gold. "Thanks for what you have done for us, I know this is not much but I would not feel right if I did not give you something." Draax is clueless as to whether 2k gold is enough for what was just accomplished; he is not really donating to the church as much as giving the money to the priest.

The Grisly Details (DM Cayzle)
Monday May 22nd, 2006 7:09:22 AM

The priest thanks Draax for his gift. Again he offers his help with the funeral arrangements, internment, etc.

Arien, thinking about future encounters, heads off to the mage guild of which he is a member.

And the rest of you? You are in the temple of Gargul with the remains of your friends. What will you do about that? And then what?

Monthor
Monday May 22nd, 2006 6:11:26 PM
ooc> This part of "the rest of you" would love to go spend some coin and get some "stuff". To that effect, can we PLEASE split the gear? Monthor wants the +5 ring of protection and could use the plus 2 amulet of natural armor (and trade back his+1 amulet if needed). The easy way would be to liquidate everything, split the cash and let everyone fend for themselves (assuming a 1 for 1 trade value at the catacombs, which is a big assumption, or, put a cash value per item, assign a share of the total value per player and keep an item in liew of it's cash equivalency). If we want a party fund, that's cool too. I suggest a 20% party fund. Split the other 80% amongs the party members. Either way, let's make a decision folks. Monthor (Monty Hawl) of the
Axe Head Clan wants to go party and spend some coin.

Renik
Monday May 22nd, 2006 6:17:57 PM
The rogue bids his final farewells to his friend, lost in contemplation.

(Sorry folks, RL has caught up with me big time, no time for more today...)

Tratain
Monday May 22nd, 2006 9:41:21 PM
Tratain Thanks the Priest and asks if he can help with the proper funeral arrangements for the Brothers.

Monthor
Tuesday May 23rd, 2006 9:29:56 AM
Monthor turns to walk out.

" Anyone else need a drink or 20? "

Feng
Tuesday May 23rd, 2006 10:55:38 AM
Feng suggests creamating the brothers so their ashes can be cast out across a great forest. After that Feng stays in the church, honoring Gargul with all the appropriate rights.

Draax
Tuesday May 23rd, 2006 4:31:35 PM
Draax remains at the church to observe the funeral arrangements for the brothers. He agrees with Feng's method and the spreading of the brother's ashes.

Funeral Arrangements (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday May 23rd, 2006 5:33:33 PM
The Eye of Gargul offers the options of cremation, burial in the crypts under the temple, or burial somewhere else -- "Perhaps in a family plot or near your home?"

Feng suggests cremation and spreading the ashes in the forest. The Eye of Gargul thinks that would be fine.

Would you like to have an urn? If so, how ornate would you like it to be?

The priest can make arrangements -- simple or ornate. Would you like a choir? Professional mourners? A bard or two? Would you like to have food afterwards? Is there anyone who should be notified? Amd how much were you planning to spend on the ceremony and such?

Father Meckett is sorry to intrude on your grief with these kinds of details, but he would like to hold the service this afternoon, with a sunset cremation.

How do you answer him?

Draax understands and stays at the Temple to work out the details. Tratain asks about helping out, and he is told that if he would like to speak or say a prayer, that would be fine. In fact, anyone who wants to speak would be welcome.

It is all too much for Monthor, who seeks to honor his fallen friend with the traditional libations. Does he do so alone?

Renik
Tuesday May 23rd, 2006 5:42:44 PM
The rogue shakes his head at talk of elaborate ceremonies.

"No, Sarigar would never have wanted such things. No urn, but a funeral pyre. He will be cremated amongst his friends, a simple ceremony within the druids' woods, if they will allow it. Perhaps the Green Man can help us arrange it. And after, a wake amongst the trees, with food and drink, tales and song. If there are those amongst the druids and woodland folk of that place who would join us in bidding farewell to our friend that would be fitting If not we shall mark his passing alone."

He turns to Monthor with a rueful smile. "My friend, I see that 20 and raise you!"

Feng
Wednesday May 24th, 2006 3:41:33 AM
Feng agrees with Renik's assessment. Sarigar was a man of the wild. Perhaps if things were different he would have been a druid. If things were different he would still be alive. In no mood for libations, Feng passes and stays in the quiet confines of the church.

Monthor
Wednesday May 24th, 2006 7:40:07 AM
To Renik.

"Son, the day ye can out drink me is the day me kisses Feng on the ugly lips of his. Me say let the druids prepare a hero's wake for the brothers while we get good and stinking drunk. And if we happen to get in a fight or three while we be at it... all the better."

Draax
Wednesday May 24th, 2006 5:18:48 PM
Draax asks the priest if it is possible to perform the funeral as Renik requested. He stays and works out the details with the church.

Arien
Wednesday May 24th, 2006 7:48:16 PM
Arien arrives at the Star Mages' Guild and wasting no time, begins to consult the spellbooks there, deciding which spells he plans on copying.

((OOC: Any clue how long we are going to have before things start happening again?))

Fare well, Sarigar (DM Cayzle)
Thursday May 25th, 2006 5:54:31 AM
The priest sees no problem with a service arranged as described by Renik. He does mention that it is customary for another donation to be made, and the Eye of Gargul suggests that the druids would appreciate a token thanks as well.

Evening falls, and at sunset it is time for farewell.

The memorial is held in the forested portion of Plateau City, the Druidic Quarter. Telfalas, the elf you just rescued, is there. So are about two dozen people -- those rescued by Sarigar and Black Paws during the recent flooding, and their families and friends (See May 27, 2005 post). The Ent Seer known as the Green Man stands in silent vigil.

As the sun sets, four grigs (cricket-taurs) appear bearing musical instruments. Father Meckett seems surprised to see them, and something else ... sense motive check 15 to tell that Highlight to display spoiler: { he is angry at the appearance of the fey}.

Maybe more surprising, the Green Man is surprised to see them too.

They play an amazing melody, both sad and welcoming at the same time. As they play, as if in your head, you hear the words that Queen Maab spoke to you when last you saw her:

"But I am not yet done with you, mortal friends."

"And although we now part, remember that I am close. Look for me in your dreams! And remember me when you find your way to your home."

(See post of Aug. 17, 2005)

[Feel free to post any final good by at the funeral service.]

[Friends, it has been a good run, but (in case this is news) JK will be taking over the game as DM. He has run the Windhorn Hamlet as DM in the past, and he is one of the best DMs in the Wold, so you'll be in good hands. He is now travelling out of the country, and will return in early June. At that time he will take over and a new module will begin. I would like to divide the loot, award xp, and wrap things up until then.]

[One thing to keep in mind. Maab talks about finding your way home. But where is home for the Windhorn Hamleteers, vagabond adventurers that you seem to be? Maybe it is getting time to think about finding a home. Just a thought.]

Renik
Thursday May 25th, 2006 3:28:55 PM
The rogue says his final farewells to his friend, then loses himself in libation and the darkness of the night.

(Cayzle, it has been a pleasure. Many thanks for some wonderful DMing.)

Feng
Thursday May 25th, 2006 5:28:28 PM
Feng says his goodbyes keeping it brief. Sarigar wasn't one for speeches and wouldn't want him to give one now. Unlike the others Feng doesn't loose himself in the embrace of drink. He feels the guilt for Sarigar's death. If he hadn't gotten himself imprisoned in the force cage then Sarigar would be alive.

Arien
Friday May 26th, 2006 12:05:52 AM
Arien waits at the grave and instead of going to an inn or the Star Mage's guild he enters trance beside the grave. As he is in trance he sifts through the memories of their adventures with Sarigar and his brother. After his trance has ended Arien returns to the guildhouse to research spells.

((OOC: Speaking of the home thing, I've asked a couple of times but I don't think I've had an answer yet, what happened to those propterties that we had bought way back when, I remember that we set one up as a front but we had 2 more that we owned as well.))

Mourners (DM Cayzle)
Friday May 26th, 2006 7:12:15 AM
The service ends, and several people approach the party after the ashes are scattered.

Telfalas is visibly grieving. "He was a noble hero. The whole Wold should hear his story!"

A cricket-taur comes by and says, in a piping voice, "TheQueenSendsHerThoughtsToYouAtThisSadTime. ButBeGlad! YourFriendHasFoundHappinessInTheLandsOfRest!"

The Green Man, with a druid you recognize, named Elpanon, also speaks with you. "Your friend was a wild one. He was a lost child. He was a creature of nature."

"But he is lost no more. He has gone home. He has been found."

A few of the humans who came look like they would have come close to speak with you, but they were daunted by the magical folk who came near.

Father Meckett approaches last, and offers you a lock of hair and a bit of singed fur. "This is of Sarigar and Black Paws. Keep it close, I urge you, because the Wold is a strange place, and you may someday long for such a keepsake."

[OOC: I wanted to keep open the door to raising Sarigar if Philip ever so decides. If he does, this may help.]

At last it is over. Where will you go? Perhaps some accomodation at an adventurer-friendly tavern or inn?

There is still loot to be divided.

[OOC: Please do put together any thoughts you might have and e-mail me them -- Role Play awards and Hero Point Nominations, especially.]

[OOC: If you want to take a look at the property you purchased previously, please e-mail me any details you have and then in character go visit it!]

Monthor
Friday May 26th, 2006 7:50:42 AM
" Well, it be over. Let's drink. "

:: Monthor and whoever wants to go with him head for the nearest Inn. ::

" First round's on Feng. "

ooc> We'll miss you Cayzle. Maybe you should pick up a character sheet and join us?

ooc> Monthor's heading for the catacombs. Since no one's objected, he's taking the +5 ring of protection and the +2 baracers. Who wants to liquidate the left overs? Joe's plan to split the loot has been the only one offered and I vote we go with it.

Philip K
Friday May 26th, 2006 12:11:07 PM
Thanks guys. I've continued to read WH since my last post to see how things are going. I must say that I'm quite touched at how each of you saw the brothers and how you dealth with their passing.

I think the way you chose to handle their final arrangements was quite appropriate for them.

And thanks to Cayzle for keeping the door open. I doubt I'll ever step through again, but I won't say that it's not a possibility (never say never as they say).

Thanks again for the great times. I had fun and I wish you all the best.

Draax
Friday May 26th, 2006 10:14:05 PM
Draax says his good-byes to the brothers along with the rest of the gang. He joins Monthor for drinks and his raises his first drink as a toast to the brothers.

(OOC: Joe's plan is OK by me.

Thanks for all the fun Cayzle, I had a great time.)

Carl
Saturday May 27th, 2006 6:16:06 AM
Hi folks, just to let you know I'm going to be taking a short break from the wold, a month or so, to recharge the batteries and free up some time.

A Quiet (yet Costly) Grief (DM Cayzle)
Monday May 29th, 2006 10:07:06 AM
Draax and Monthor head off to find a place to drown their grief.

Renik also slips away, when no one is looking, thinking his own thoughts.

Father Meckett approaches Feng, Arien, and Tratain. Diplomatically, he mentions that aside from the 200 platinum pieces Draax donated after the magical conversation with Sarigar, the party has yet made no further donation to either the Temple of Gargul nor the good druids here. "I know that grief is heavy in your hearts," the priest says, "and I know that Sarigar would not you want to leave a debt unanswered."

Feng
Tuesday May 30th, 2006 6:30:17 AM
Feng is all for supporting the church but its clear Father Meckett is less than noble. "I think that if Sarigar knew you were trying to take advantage of people like this he would feed you to his brother. Your actions are appaling and you should be ashamed of yourself. I forget is this a church that is supposed to help people or a thieves guild?" Feng asks and narrows his eyes at Father meckett.

You Fly-By-Night Adventurers (DM Cayzle)
Tuesday May 30th, 2006 10:12:59 PM

[OOC: Well over 24 hours and only one post! I know Philip's and Carl's reasons. How about the rest of yas! Thanks for posting, loyal and faithful Feng!]

Father Meckett takes Feng's comments in stride without getting angry.

"Yes, for most mourners I would wait before bringing up such a mercenary topic -- but you are adventurers, well known to dash off without warning, often forgetful of the mundane details of life. If you had a home here, or family, or some other reason for me to think I will ever see you again, then I would have held my tongue. But I decided to speak now rather than lose my opportunity to do so, maybe forever."

"If you will tell me where I can find you in a day or a week, I will gladly meet with you then, and offer my apologies for intruding on your grief."

"As for the fairness of the fees, well, all things in life and death have a cost. We have not discussed how much the fees will be. It seems premature to compare the temple to a thieves guild before you have heard the appropriate donation."

Draax
Wednesday May 31st, 2006 2:59:25 AM
Draax gets a couple of drinks and then heads to the stables to see about the upkeep of his horse. He pays for another month of care for the animal.

Feng
Wednesday May 31st, 2006 10:26:59 AM
"A donation is whatever the person feels is appropriate. By you telling people what the appropriate donation is you are setting the cost of the service. I believe that your coffers are quite full and you live quite well for being a man of the people. As for where I will be in a week I honestly don't know. See we go about helping people because its the right thing to do. We do not ask for set amount donations."

Monthor
Wednesday May 31st, 2006 11:11:43 AM
Monthor did a little buisness at the Catacombs before starting his binging and now sports a full set of plate armor where a set of 1/2 plate used to be worn.

(ooc assuming that this is okay with you Cayzle)

Even without Draax, Monthor continues to drink and sing and boast and toast the memory of the brothers.

Arien
Wednesday May 31st, 2006 10:19:48 PM
Arien strides forward to stand beside Feng, "Let us simply finish this distasteful topic. I will be blunt here, how much do you want Priest?" The elven mage is clearly angry but speaks in a normal tone of voice, "Name your price so that we can conclude this business, after all who knows where we will be in a week right Priest?"

Tratain
Wednesday May 31st, 2006 11:50:52 PM
Tratain ushers his friends away from the priest and speaks with him. He says "I will be staying at the War Cathedral. I will come to you tomorrow or the next day to square everything away."

He says to his friends "Lets be off to a Tavern and Have ourselves a few Drinks. We may want to start looking around town for a small Manor house so we have someplace to say while we're here in town so we don't have to depend on the War Cathedral to put us up."

OOC: I have the E-mail stating who wants what. If no one else claims anything else I'll go sell the Unclaimed Items at the Catacombs, We'll split the rest between those who didn't get items and Pay for the Priest and Druids out of that Fund. I apologize for missing a few posts, was busy over the weekend.

Smoothing things over (DM Cayzle)
Thursday June 1st, 2006 5:36:06 AM
Tratain's diplomacy is welcomed by the priest, who seems surprised at the response he got from Arien and Feng. He agrees readily and will see Tratain tomorrow.

The heroes gather at the place Monthor and Draax found. It is a humble inn, with excellent service and decent food. The ale has a good reputation.

In the common room of the place, a minstrel is playing. You sit, drink, talk, and reflect. Final arrangements for the loot are made. A courier from the Catacombs drops off a package for Monthor.

You realize the musician is singing about a band of heroes who defeated the Fae King and then fought giant bees and ants to rescue some elves. The tune is quite catchy. The minstrel does not seem to realize that the subjects of his tune are sitting in the room!

Feng
Thursday June 1st, 2006 11:51:50 AM
Feng is glad to be away from the church and the greedy priest. Things aren't the way they used to be. Even those supposedly helping people want gold to justify their services.

"This buisness we are in. It does wear on you after a while."

Draax
Thursday June 1st, 2006 6:18:59 PM
After taking care of his horse, Draax returns to the place to get a bite with the rest of the group. As he listens to the bard's song, he wonders if Renik might be the song writer for the catchy tune.

(OOC: I will be out of town and away from my computer until Wednesday, 7 Jun.)

Monthor
Thursday June 1st, 2006 7:00:05 PM
Monthor drinks beer. He also challenges the strongest looking customer to an arm wrestling contest.... and he drinks more beer.

Tratain
Thursday June 1st, 2006 10:41:55 PM
Tratain sits with his Friends and drinks with them, remembering the trials that got them here.

He says "Does anyone have any idea what the queen wants with us now that we have defeated the Fey Kings avatar?"

"We also may want to start looking around town here and in Windhorn for a Place to set up from. Its about time we had a place of our own."

Arien
Friday June 2nd, 2006 2:48:10 AM
Arien keeps his vigil over the gravesite, during his trance he remembers some property that the party had purchased, after finishing his trance Arien decides to investigate what happened to these properties and heads off to where they were.

((OOC: In digging around here is what I found about those properties we bought:

DM Kim d20+5=21 d20+5=16 d20+5=14 d20+5=23 d20+5=25 d20+5=25 d20+5=20
Saturday January 5th, 2002 8:31:51 PM
OK, let's figure the places were purchased about two months from the time of the hot tub party.

Allowing a week or so for the cleaning out of the rubbish from the mage's place, and another week or two for painting the clubhouse, the dwellings are basically ready for moving in.

Via some investigation, it is learned that existing underground passageways go quite near to the brick building - just the next building away from the river. From the clubhouse, one must go across the courtyard before arriving at an underground connection. Of course, with enough time, effort, engineering, bracing, a more or less direct route between the buildings could be dug. [An earth elemental might speed things up. ;-) Watch out that the structural integrity of intervening edifices are not compromised by the digging...

Essential kitchen gear - New: a stove, oven, plumbing, and starter utensils can be had starting at 400 gp, with decided increases in quality at double the price and above. However, a higher quality stove and oven are found, albeit used, which bring the costs to 550, including the move and installation.

Ferak, Bill & Darkfang prove to be pretty good diggers, and a tunnel between the two dwellings is finally completed, in a manner of speaking, just a few days before the end of five months. 'In a manner of speaking,' because, although the diminuitive gnome and halfling can pass more of less upright through the whole passageway, those of greater stature must stoop severely much of the way. Those over ~5'8" will have to crawl in spots. The diggers do excavate a few wider areas, with enough room for Rond to stand almost straight in the exact center of two of them, and a few more places to pass here and there. More time and work will be needed to clear out a broader passageway. A separate tunnel is made from the brick building to barely short of the existing nearby tunnel complex. Bill's knowledge of architecture and engineering are sufficient to leave a thin crust of earth to separate the new from the existing tunnel. A few rounds of digging would be sufficient to effect a passable opening - large enough for the larger party members.)

Also if you want to refer to this, the whole talks dealing with this is in Chaper 5 of Volume 4 in the Archives.))

Cayzle apologizes
Monday June 5th, 2006 11:15:19 PM
Sorry friends, Real Life has been brutal. DM JK will be taking over a week from today, next Monday. I will post asap for today and thru the end of the week.

R&R (DM Cayzle)
Wednesday June 7th, 2006 6:44:01 AM
As the Windhorn Hamleteers relax and unwind, they think about times gone by.

Feng recalls a less cynical day, when everyone didn;t just think of money.

Tratain remembers Queen Maab and wonders if the group is done with her, or not.

Arien recalls some property the group obtained a while back. How long has it been since you went there? A year? More? What shape will it be in when you return?

Draax and Monthor are less thoughtful, enjoying music and arm wrestling to relax.

That night you spend in the inn. In the morning, will you set out to visit these properties from a bygone day?

[OOC: Has the loot been divided? Could someone e-mail me the final division, please?]

Monthor
Wednesday June 7th, 2006 7:58:55 AM
ooc> The loot was devided as per the emails but I do believe that we still need to do a trip to the Catacombs to sell off the extras. I believe that Traitain volunteered to do this (or was it Arien?). Monthor was proactive and already took the ring of protection +5 and the amulet +2 of natural armor (as agreed upon) and did his trip to the Catacombs. He now sports a spiffy looking full set of plate armor ta boot (which, from his previous 1/2 plate, added a +1 armour bonus to his AC and allows a +1 dex bonus to armour as well).

::Monthor knows nothing of the properties since they were purchased before his time and thus has no real interest in going there since they don't belong to him. If the party decides to take a break, he'd rather go back to Dirt City to see his mammy and pappy and invites the rest of the party to join him. Monthor, during a sober moment, wonders if they just find out where they need to go next to deal with the King and get on with it. ::

Draax
Wednesday June 7th, 2006 8:23:48 PM
"I have no idea want the queen could need from us, but if the queen wants us, I am sure she will let us know."

Draax remembers the place the group purchased. "We do own a couple of buildings in the city. Technically a few prior members of the group still share in the ownership, but even if they stop by, the place is big enough for all of us."

Feng
Thursday June 8th, 2006 9:54:27 AM
"With all of the chaos as of late I bet they need some work getting back into shape. It might be nice to do something normal and not trek across the Wold for one reason or another."

ooc: could somebody send me the final division as well. I have not added anything since I wasn't sure how it would turn out.

Tratain
Thursday June 8th, 2006 10:17:13 AM
In the morning Tratain will stop by the Temple of Gargul and Give the Priest Another 2,000 Gold to be split between the Temple and the Druids, and then Heads off with his comrades to the property they have been talking about to see what kind of condition it is in.

OOC E-mail has been sent with Loot stuff, I'm going to the Catacombs shortly to sell whats not claimed

Squatters (DM Cayzle)
Thursday June 8th, 2006 4:57:12 PM

Loot is divided, and the priest of Gargul is satisfied.

The group finds that the buildings they once owned have been occupied by squatters. There are a small gang of beggers, who show you their begging licenses when challenged. There is also a family holed up in one suite of rooms -- about five kids and a granny. The granny tells you that the mother is out working, but she will be back soon.

Draax
Thursday June 8th, 2006 11:29:45 PM
Draax looks over the beggars; he would hate to have to kill one or two of them to reclaim his property, but he will do it if he must. To the beggars he says, "You guys are going to have to find a new place to live. The owners are back and we plan to live here. You have until tonight to find a new place."

Draax addresses the grandmother, "We will wait until the mother return and discuss with her the situation."

When the group is alone Draax says, "I see no reason why the family cannot stay. As long as they understand the situation and Feng does not sense any evil from them. I would feel better if someone was in the place when we have to be off again for long periods of time. I would also like to leave my horse here instead of paying the local stable every time we leave."

Feng
Friday June 9th, 2006 7:27:33 AM
"We cannot just throw them out of the street. These simple acts are what seperates us from those that stand as our enemies. The beggers are another problem altogether. They choose that life by getting liscenes. With all the chaos they could have gotten jobs if they wished."

Monthor
Friday June 9th, 2006 7:32:50 AM
Monthor taps the blade of his axe on his palm repeatedly....

" Beggars be gone or me be tossing ye out. "

" Hey boys, this ain't me house but ye should consider hiring this family to look after it for ye when yer not here. "

Arien
Friday June 9th, 2006 3:24:59 PM
"I agree with that, also since we do have several properties here, I would suggest that we hire someone or several someones to watch over each building. Perhaps some of these beggars could make for some unskilled labor for any repairs that we might need done to the buildings in our absence?"

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