Discoveries. (DM Jim) Wednesday June 21st, 2006 12:50:42 AM
Trellus decides to try a little test and soon he is bleeding lightly from a cut upon his hand. Though all of the group tries as they might Trellus finds that the wound does not close. This is starting to get just a little annoying and worrying to all the pack in turn.
Almost all the pack spots the two bladders a short ways off. Only Gilan moves forward to have a look as the others go about thier business. He does not draw too close as he does not want to disturb the bladders, as they could be water or something even better.
The dome in the distance is still too far away to get a good idea of what it looks like or if there are any farms closeby it. Despite the best efforts of Flea she is unable to come up with anything about the dome or other domes in the Plains...then again very little if no information is ever given in Rattledam.
The group now has two choices it looks like...check out the two bladders or go onto the dome. Either way things have most definitely gotten interesting, some of it not for the better.
Knowledge(nature) or Survival DC 14 to identify the grass and the bladders as amber colored grasswine...though it will need to be processed to make it true wine.
Continue to let me know what you do about the tests?
Ulgren d20=9 Wednesday June 21st, 2006 10:48:45 AM
Ulgren plods along through the grass oblivious to anything other than the people around him. It's not until Trellus asks the mage to send him some healing that the drow is realizes that they have been moving for awhile. "Sure Trellus, how do I do that?"
Email Address....DM Jim Wednesday June 21st, 2006 12:39:57 PM
For those of you that may not have it in your address book or had something happen to your addresses. My address is.....Chosen_Demon@hushmai.com.
Don't forget those CSs as we will be needing the updated ones very soon. :)
Tishe' and Stripes Wednesday June 21st, 2006 1:07:34 PM
The tests are disturbing, especially in light that Tishe' could use the special powers of the First Circle and the Dragon Tear during the crab fight but not after. "That leaves joining the Woldian League of Adventurers as the only thing that could have interfered. That or something as yet unexplained."
But if none of them could figure it out in four days, they would have to wait until the Baron's Stronghold was visited and the underground slaves rescued.
Tishe' isn't interested in the glass grass, and concentrates on the dome. "It is unusual that the Baron's would use the same style of building as the Monks.", she muses. "But we need to talk."
She gathers her packmates together with her eyes. "We're here to fulfill a debt to the Barons, not to join thier side. I think it best if we keep our ears and eyes open and our mouths shut. We don't want the Barons to know anything more about Rattledam from us."
A stray lock of brown hair moves in front of her eyes and she absently tucks it behind one ear.
Trellus Wednesday June 21st, 2006 4:25:48 PM
Trellus shakes his head slowly at Tishe's comment. "Not yet," he responds. "I healed dudes at the raider fight. You healed Mac at the crab fight, but you can't heal me." The blond man considers the problem for a moment, unconsciously rubbing his hand along the back of his neck.
"So lets try this. Mac, can you scratch yourself? Then we try to heal him. Me first, then Gry, Jake, Gilan, Flea, Ulgren, and lastly Tishe. Anybody that does heal him, try sending him a message too."
-----
At the bladders, he nods. "These ain't going anywhere. Let's weave toward the dome. Keep shuttlecocked dudes."
Trellus heads for the dome.
Gilan and Ciaran Wednesday June 21st, 2006 7:53:12 PM
Gilan listens as he looks over the pods and smiles. "Amber grasswine...this is a rare one." He is talking more to himself but he figures that the others will hear him.
When it is his turn to heal anyone he tries his best to send some of his own hit points to that Bloodpack member.
Ciaran decides to lay down and take a short nap though anyone with sense of animals will see his nose and ears twitching. An obvious sign that he is not really sleeping or napping at all.
Answers and the Dome. (DM Jim) Thursday June 22nd, 2006 12:58:03 AM
Seeing as the group has some time they spend a little longer in testing out the healing powers and message powers of both the gem and heart-touch.
Mac takes the offered dagger and cuts himself upon the hand, something shallow that bleeds but is not dangerous. Then the healing begins from the Bloodpack. Trellus tries to send healing first and the cut does nothing but bleed a little more...no healing. Then Gry gives it a try and he feels the drain on his own life as he gives to Mac and the wound closes.
Noone else needs to send healing to Mac now as his wound is gone and but he does find that Gry is able to speak to him...mind to mind...if only a short message.
The dome still waits in the distance but the group has had a breakthrough on their other problem. Now what is the cause of it and how badly effected are they.
Jake Thursday June 22nd, 2006 2:49:39 AM
"Well, dust, let's go look at that blasted dome, ya think? Ah mean, it could be something interesting. Maybe a Walker home, or a Baron outpost, or more of those crazy Ants..." Jake draws his shield, figuring it's better to be safe than sorry. "Hey, it's gotta be 'cause of Gargul...he probably broke the bond when we talked to him, ya guys weave?"
Trellus Thursday June 22nd, 2006 4:23:06 PM
"Hold that thread, Jake" Trellus says. "I want to know who can work this pick. Especially before we go sticking our noses into strange places."
"Now, since Gry sent a message to Mac, we can test that way instead of cutting everybody up. So - One at a time, send a message to each one of the others. Tell the pack who you're sending it to, and work your way around. I figure if you can talk, you can heal."
The blond man starts, calling each packmate by name, and then trying to send Can you hear me? to the person.
Ulgren Thursday June 22nd, 2006 4:59:09 PM
Ulgren shrugs as his question is skipped. "Tishe'" the drow says softly, "can you hear me?" the drow sends.
Grymash d20+2=18 d20+5=11 Thursday June 22nd, 2006 8:24:47 PM "Gute!! Mac can hear Gry's head!" Grymash then turns and looks around. "Hey, dat be uh dome!? Weez be theres already?"
(spot 18, Listen 11)
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday June 22nd, 2006 10:58:27 PM
Gilan shrugs as he turns to each packmember in turn. "Got it Trell." He calls them by name and then tries to think a simple hello to each one of them. He does feel a little funny standing here trying to think to his packmates when they are only a few feet from him.
Ciaran cocks his head to the side and looks at the group as if they have gone mad. He finds this pack even more confusing at times...but what can you do.
The Tear and The Heart. (DM Jim) Friday June 23rd, 2006 12:49:08 AM
With a little more testing the group is soon finding out that this affliction is not effecting all of them. Tishe', Mac, Grymash and Ulgren all seem to be able to communicate through the Dragon Tear...so it reasons that they can still make use of the heart-touch as well.
With a look around the Plains it is sound to say that it is getting late into the day...the sun is already dipping low in the sky. You are also starting to lose the light though it is not that bad yet and you figure that you could get at least an hours travel in. This should bring you almost to the dome...though some predators of the Plains come out at this time.
Jake is ready to move out and draws his shield to help in protection as he is maybe getting a little nervous...this has been a little too easy. Just one biting statue and nothing else to slow them down...the Plains seems to be playing nice this day.
Tishe' and Stripes Friday June 23rd, 2006 12:50:16 AM
[OOC: Edited because I was typing the same time as the DM... :)]
"Ulgren, it is part of the magic of the Dragon Tear that allows you to send healing and strength across the bond between all who have it." she pauses and thinks. "It could very well be part of the gifts the Dark Lord gave to us during the conversation in his realm."
But for now, it is enough to know that the dome is near and the pack doesn't have to spend another night out in the Sargrass. Nothing has bothered them so far, but why tempt fate?
As she walks, she glances at the Mark of Gargul on her hand. The four of us are different. Different races, origins, attitudes. Mac even talked back to Gargul so shouldn't he be part of the other group? And I ate at the village, danced with them... she shakes her head, not being able to see any logic. Yet.
Jake Friday June 23rd, 2006 2:15:26 AM
"Uh oh, guys, it's beginning to get shady! I mean, in a bad way! The sun's going down, and ... well, we might not get to the dome and search it. I say we deal with this later, heck, we'll just have to be careful about healing from now on..." Jake tucks his hat down and prepares to lead the way towards the dune, determinedly.
Ulgren Friday June 23rd, 2006 10:58:07 AM
Ulgren takes in the explanation that Tishe' gives and nods his head, "Remeber the curse that Gargul lay upon us? Could this be part of it we feel the heart touch because we are still alive and you guys can't because, umm you don't need to?"
Trellus Friday June 23rd, 2006 2:15:55 PM
The blond cleric turns and looks at Ulgren. He looks at him for a long time. After a while, it becomes apparent that Trellus really isn't looking at anything, his eyes just happen to be pointing in that particular direction while the rest of him is seriously devoted to working out the implications of the drow's last statement.
And from a very personal standpoint, he doesn't like them. He doesn't like them at all.
I don't need healing? Because...... Because I can't die. But, I cut myself. It hurt. I bled. I healed it with a spell. Being hurt and being dead aren't the same thing. I can be hurt without dying? So, I can be truly twisted without dying? Squashed by a ranthom? Cut open by a rapke? Grow old and feeble? But not die......Sweet Domi's Light.
No, Trellus definitely doesn't like the logical path he's on.
His eyes blink, and he returns to the here and now. Not something to share, he decides.
"Um, let's not weave that thread right now Ulgren" he says at last. "C'mon dudes. Jake's right, let's get over to this dome."
Trellus moves, a bit more quickly than usual, toward the new adventure.
Mac Friday June 23rd, 2006 6:39:49 PM
"Mind your footing!" Mac calls ahead.
Thinking for a while he adds, "I still think it has something to do with the fishing village... or villagers." He doesn't get any more specific as he makes some pace through the grasses towards the dome.
Tishe' and Stripes Friday June 23rd, 2006 10:59:57 PM
[OOC: Edited because I was typing the same time as the DM... :)]
"Ulgren, it is part of the magic of the Dragon Tear that allows you to send healing and strength across the bond between all who have it." she pauses and thinks. "It could very well be part of the gifts the Dark Lord gave to us during the conversation in his realm."
But for now, it is enough to know that the dome is near and the pack doesn't have to spend another night out in the Sargrass. Nothing has bothered them so far, but why tempt fate?
Gilan and Ciaran Friday June 23rd, 2006 11:29:50 PM
Gilan shakes his head as he wanders along with the rest of the group. Thinking back over what happened at the village he cannot think of anything that would have this effect. "You thinking some kind of drug in the food or drink or maybe some supernatural act by the villagers while we slept?" Really he cannot see how the village would be connected...though he can see thier meeting with Gargul being possible as the cause.
Ciaran paces along with the rest of his new pack as he noses around a little now and again. He seems to be adapting quickly to the heat and overall lay of the Plains.
Dome of IronHome. (DM Jim) Saturday June 24th, 2006 1:07:01 AM
The group paces through the grass all of them are thinking over what all this might mean. At the same time they ponder the dome in the distance and what that could mean. So many questions and so few answers...it is as if they are back in Rattledam before the monks.
The sun has set and the buzz of insects is starting to echo across the Plains. Soon they will be out in force and the group will need to find shelter or try to keep from giving off the scent of moisture.
You find that the dome is growing as you get nearer to it and it is just as tall and big as the one that covers what you call home. Still in the now dark it is hard to tell much of the make of it, at least from the outside. You must be no more than twenty feet from the dome now and you can see six torches flickering near the dome, but are too high to be people outside of it.
Hairs stand on the back of necks as you get the feeling that you are being watched though noone calls out. The closer you draw to the dome the more the feeling increases. The group is now within fifteen feet of the dome when there is a call from the structure and a bolt slams into the ground very close to the group...it is obvious that someone missed on purpose. "Who comes to IronHome at this time of night? Answer quick and do not lie or the next one is through your throat." The voice is most definitely feminine in quality but hard as Gry's head.
Trellus Saturday June 24th, 2006 5:25:05 PM
Trellus takes a step to his right, and stomps the bolt further into the ground. His response matches the unseen person's tone.
"You asked us for help, Baron. We are the Bloodpack. Twist us, and we might just decide your kids aren't worth the effort."
Jake d20+5=9 Sunday June 25th, 2006 2:29:09 PM
Jake really doesn't like the idea of helping the Barons out, one bit. He twists awkwardly, looking about, just hoping they're trying to sneak up on them and betray them or something..
Tishe' and Snout Monday June 26th, 2006 12:00:12 AM
Stripes begins a low growl, feeling the surprise and fear and anger in his human. She puts a comforting hand on his head, but it does nothing to lower his hackles. There is danger out in the dark, and Stripes will defend against it.
His human, Tishe', speaks to the packleader in a low voice "They may not be expecting us if Rayla hasn't returned."
Mac Monday June 26th, 2006 4:14:19 AM
"I for one will think more kindly when we're more comfortable - indoors." Mac adds at a hush.
Gilan and Ciaran Monday June 26th, 2006 3:02:08 PM
Gilan stops when the bolt slams into the ground and turns his eyes to the dome. He knows that he will never see anything with his human eyes and any shapechange could be counted as an attack.
He looks to Trellus and shakes his head, knowing that normally Trell would be a little more diplimatic. With all the stuff going on lately he has too much on his mind to think totally straight. He lays a hand upon Trell's shoulder. "Remember the village was attacked...they would be on edge as much as Rattledam would be in the same situation."
Ciaran scans the dome as well, his eyes seeing better in the dark. He does not see anything near that would be a threat but he can feel it none the less. His own hackles are raised and a low rumble sounds in his throat that those nearest him would be able to hear.
Grymash Monday June 26th, 2006 7:19:39 PM "YEAH!!" shouts Gry, simply, in response to Trellus' answer to the Baron's question.
Tishe' and Snout Monday June 26th, 2006 11:41:46 PM
On edge, the girl and her hyena wait tensely in the growing dark.
A Simple Mistake. (DM Jim) Monday June 26th, 2006 11:44:08 PM
A small crack in the dome appears as you see a body slip out. The light disappears just as fast as a young female in dark armor comes towards you at a fair clip. In her hands is a crossbow with bolt already loaded and more than able to use it.
As she pulls to within ten feet of the group she stares at the group for a few seconds and then holds up her hand...she twirls her hand with her pointer finger in the air. The crack once again appears in the dome and you see the first appearance of a smile upon her face. "I am sorry...Rayla said that your group was coming here but we have been on high alert since the attack." She glances around as if the Oglian were about to pop out of thin air around her. "They have attacked twice more since Rayla, Bikle and Zak left to seek out help." She motions you to follow her back to the dome though she stays beside Trellus to talk. "We are a village of about three hundred with only twenty hunters...thirteen now since the attacks."
If you follow along you will notice as you draw closer that the dome is actually pitch black and sheds little light. The torches are places in holders high upon the dome walls that must only be accessible from the inside. The dome is actually as big as your home of Rattledam or as far as you can tell so far in the dark.
[Alternate email...lugnut7@earthlink.net]
Jake Tuesday June 27th, 2006 12:46:21 AM
Jake doesn't like this one bit. "We're heading into a trap, Trellus, I just know it..." He looks at the woman. Not bad looking, though... Dark hair that draws the eyes, and a look like she knows what she's doing... We have seen the enemy, and she's kinda shady...
Trellus Tuesday June 27th, 2006 7:42:33 PM
"They're warped up alright," he answers Gilan, and then grins at his friend. "So, you're saying twisting 'em more ain't the shadiest path? Yeah, OK."
Jake has got a point, though. "Just keep shuttlecocked dudes. Get inside, stick together. Don't go chasing any women just yet."
Walking beside the girl, he is a bit puzzled. If she was trying to mislead him, you think she'd use more believable numbers.
"Thirteen warriors?" he responds in disbelief. "In that thing?"
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday June 27th, 2006 10:37:51 PM
Gilan shakes his head. "Not at this time anyways." He lets a smile slip across his face as he laughs a little. Looking to the woman as she shows up outside he shakes his head again. "Think she would have brought a few more with her...either we are no threat or they think they are really good." That will have to wait as she starts to speak and he turns his ears to listen.
As they walk along he has to agree with Trellus on that last comment. "How do you protect a dome this size with that many hunters?" It just does not seem possible and he starts to wonder himself if this is a trap. Trell's advice seems to be a lot wiser now and he does not really see a reason to split up anyways. Looking over at the woman he indicates the darkness and asks a simple question. "Will we be seeing the leader here tonight or tommorrow...and will Rayla be there?" It had appeared that she was a trustworthy person...for a Baron that is...though a couple of things still bother him about that. "Why do you say hunters and not Barons." He cannot help but put a little venom behind the word as he says it.
Ciaran follows along with his brother as he tastes and smells the new smells that eminate from inside the dome. He does not really like the smell that much but mixed in is the smell of good things to eat.
Grymash d20+2=16 d20+2=10 Tuesday June 27th, 2006 10:53:18 PM
Grymash has never been known as a smart half-orc, even among other half-orcs! Asking him to remember something he did yesterday or several days before and you're usually answered with a vacant stare. Asking such a question of the half-orc would more than often draw out his ire. This 'weakness' irritated Grymash immensely and many a soul felt the half-orc's wrath for reminding him of it. Even though burdened with many failures of memory and all things academic, Grymash seemed to possess a keen awareness of self, the world around him, and what lurks in the hearts and souls of man. This intuition, this instinct, often made him distrusting of others. Since having been lied to and betrayed before, he is predisposed to assume the worst until proven otherwise. Even though this solitary woman has emerged to welcome them, he knows there are probably hundreds of arrows and bolts trained on his head.
(Sense Motive: 16, Spot: 10)
Tishe' and Stripes d20+8=26 d20+8=22 Tuesday June 27th, 2006 11:20:11 PM
Hackles raised and on high alert, Tishe' and Stripes stay close to the other packmates and enter the dome. (Listen: 26, Spot: 22) She has also noticed the wording of the woman. "Hunters, packmates, not warriors, that could be their name for rapke mounted Barons, and have different names for others."
She also looks for evidence of attack. Surely if the Oglians have attacked the place three times, that there is some damage around the town.
Stripes pads close to his human, sniffing low and eyes open, together they are a good pack.
Ulgren Wednesday June 28th, 2006 6:03:06 AM
Ulgren says little carefully watching the surrondings for signs of previous attack and damage. The mage carefully looks over the woman. Ulgren says little in hopes that Trellus can lead them through this safely.
Flea Wednesday June 28th, 2006 7:50:16 AM
"Magicks," mumbles the rogue. "I bet they have lots of white handed tricks."
Flea is slowly coming the the realization that although combat on the Sargrass Plains is primitive and often brutal, it is far overmatched by weird magics. Flea's hand rests lightly over the wand at her belt, as she enters the tomb-like place.
Mac d20+2=20 d20+6=22 Wednesday June 28th, 2006 8:04:24 AM
Mac heads in. There is enough talking going on.
He listens and watches. [Listen:20, Spot:22]
OOC: Moving house. Be back ASAP.
Sleep, Rest and Meet in the Morning. (DM Jim) Wednesday June 28th, 2006 4:52:54 PM
The woman does not break her stride as she is asked questions. She nods her head and takes the time to answer them as she walks, not fast but at a fair pace. "Our village is mostly farmers, ranchers and vineyard growers...we have little use for a lot of soldiers. What few hunters we do have here, protect us and hunt up food upon the Plains to be eaten and supplement our own stocks." Looking back to Gilan she nods her head to indicate him. "Some of our hunters are of his stock...druids I think you would call them...they help us to gather those grasses that can be eaten." As you near the dome you can now tell that it is made of a dark metal for sure. It does not appear to have had any damage that would have allowed anyone in. "Since it is so late you will meet the Elder in the morning and as to Rayla, she is out with the twins checking on the Oglian...watching the cave they came out of and to see if they will launch another attack." She lets out a rush of air as she enters through an opening in the dome with the rest of the pack. "They should return by tomorrow morning or noon at the latest and we have a hut set up for you to stay in if you want. Turning to take the group to the east she stops in front of a large building that will most definitely house all of you and then another group your size as well. "We here are not really Barons but under their rule...every year during the BloodMoon they come and we send twenty of our youth with them to be trained. We are no more true Barons than a half-elf is a true elf." She slides apart the curtain the covers the opening of the building and motions you in. "If you have need of food or drink please ask...I will post a hunter in training here to see to your needs."
Despite what you may have thought the inside of the dome is at least twenty degrees cooler than the outside, even at this time of night. There are several torches set up that give low light to the inside of the dome. Looking up you can see the stars through the dome and you wonder how this metal dome allows the sight of stars. Going back to your entrance to the village you could only count ten hunters on duty, not counting the young lady that came out to get you.
In the far distance of the dome you hear a number of drums being beaten to an even tempo. Once in awhile you hear the sounds of wailing as well. Incense can be caught upon the air of the dome every once in awhile but it is gone as fast as you smell it.
About fifteen minutes after the young woman hunter leaves another younger boy shows up. He must be all of fifteen and just a little bit afraid as he comes into the hut or notices they group still outside of it. His eyes grow wide as he swallow a couple of times. His mouth opens but no sound comes out but a strangled sound and you notice that sweat has broken out on his head. You have seen prairie pigs caught in the light of a torch look this way...just before you put a spear or arrow into them.
Tishe' and Stripes d20+12=14 Wednesday June 28th, 2006 11:59:00 PM
Looking at her packmates, Tishe' then looks at the building and shrugs. "We dyed the wool, now let's see what threads we can spin." And she goes inside to make herself comfortable. No good at making a fire or cooking, the spellweaver finds a nice spot on the floor. Resting easily on the ground with Stripes curled up as a back-rest, she takes out her drop spindle and keeps her hands busy making thread (Weaving: 14) while her mind is in a whirl.
"A metal dome, like our grass one. Which is the copy and which the original? We need to be ready to confront the Oglian at a moment's notice, but not run out as individuals. We should move at Flea's pace. Under the Barons but not of them. I wonder if they would turn to more gentle allies if given the chance? And what about these 20 trainees a year?" Her mind flits from subject to subject, and her mouth follows without rhyme or reason.
Stripes however, is content to be a backrest. When the juvenile arrives, the hyena raises his ugly head briefly, then goes back to napping.
Trellus d20+8=18 Thursday June 29th, 2006 11:57:01 AM
The cleric tries to take it all in.. not barons but under their rule. OK, that helps make some sense of this.
He enters the large hut and looks around. Its defensible, and that kid out front sure ain't a guard.
"The Barons probably take some quota and just haul 'em off," he responds to Tishe. "Let's not go running off anywhere tonight," he tells the group cautiously.
The 'hunter in training' appears at the door, and Trellus stifles the urge to yell 'Boo' at him. Kid would probably spring a leak right there.
"Hey dude, warp down," he says gently to the boy. He approaches slowly, openly. "We ain't gonna hurt you, truly." [Diplomacy 18 (+2 if they worship Woldian gods, -1 if Marteaus)]
He listens for a moment. "What's with the drums?" he asks the kid.
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday June 29th, 2006 10:38:37 PM
Gilan continues to listen and then shake his head. After the young woman leaves he looks to Trell and nods his head. "Seems they supply the Barons with soldiers for protection maybe?" Though from the sounds, the Barons don't exactly do a good job of it.
He looks up to spot the kid as he comes in thier direction. That kid is too green to put on guard duty and to have him watch us is even worst. Surely these people know who we are and what we represent to those that protect them. He gives the kid a smile, not realizeing that his new teeth maybe even spookier on the kid. "Take it easy kid...we don't bite...well at least not all of us." His grin widens as he speaks...not realizing that his banter is not going to help. "Do you have a name?"
Ciaran looks up from the spot that he is laying and looks the kid over. With a sniff he lays his head back down, realizing that this kid would run at the smallest show of agression from him...heck the kid was about to run now.
Tishe' and Stripes Friday June 30th, 2006 12:03:52 AM
Thinking about the insense, drums, and wailing, Tishe' looks up and wonders; "It almost sounds like a funeral, doesn't it?" she glances at the boy for confirmation.
Jake d20+6=16 d20+10=22 d20+18=24 Friday June 30th, 2006 6:23:10 AM
Jake speaks after a bit. "So...these Barons aren't really Barons. That is, we're in baron's territory, but the barons aren't bothering to protect them. And they're playing up to us, asking us for help, when the Barons are away. And we're trusting them to stay on our side, not betray us and turn us in to the Barons...and why are we helping them, really? Because we're the nice guys? Sounds like we're getting weaved by these people. They get everything out of this, and have every opportunity to backstab us... "And if we do help them, how's it gonna hurt us, guys? To the Barons, it'll look like we're invading their territory. In fact, if we help these guys and the Barons find out, they might get suspicious of this town and destroy it too. To the druids, it'll look like we're helping the Barons. "Yet we'll help them anyways, 'cause we're heroes. Ah dunno, guys, it sounds like we're getting totally waxed. Either that, or demand they keep us totally secret..." Jake stops and falls silent.. "Plus ah figure they're listening to us right now... that's what ah'd be doing if I was them." Then the boy enters. As the others speak up to the boy, Jake simply grins and offers the youngster a seat, scooching over. He pulls out a deck of cards, and shuffles it once or twice with one hand, showing amazing fingerplay, then in a little flick of the hand, the cards disappear. "Whoops! Where did they go... Oh, hey..." He reaches out and snatches one from behind the kid's ears. "Jack of hearts, huh? Looks like you'll be lucky with the ladies, kid. Well, when you're a bit older maybe." (Sleight of hand DC 16, or Perform 22... Either way, Diplomacy 24 on my attempt to make friends with the boy.)
Tishe' and Stripes Friday June 30th, 2006 11:07:36 PM
Tishe' watches with amusement Jake's slieight of hand mastery.
Tishe' and Stripes Monday July 3rd, 2006 2:13:50 PM
It is fascinating how the cards seem to float in the air like they are never coming down.
Night and Morning. (DM Jim) Monday July 3rd, 2006 11:08:20 PM
The young man smiles sheepishly though you notice that he does look to both sides, looking for an escape route or for unseen attackers. "My name is Digun." He seems to settle out as Trellus speaks to him and soon he is talking a little more freely. "The drums are for those that died and those that are supposed dead." Looking to all the Bloodpack he takes a seat near Jake as he motions and scoots over. "We have lost seven hunters all together...three in the first raid and the last four never returned when a group of hunters in training decided to search out the Oglian." With that last he once again looks around as if expecting on of the large giant ants to appear and snatch him up. With no further questions seeming to come he is soon taken in by Jake and his slight of hand. He blushes as Jake comments on girls and then shakes his head. "Rayla would beat me senseless as I am engaged to her cousin." You get the sense that he is enamored by this young woman that he speaks of as his voice takes on a husky quality and he gets this far away look in his eyes...Jake knows this look well.
The night passes easily with the young Dugin talking to the group and getting to know them. Even though you are thought by some to be the mortal enemy of the Barons, this young man seems to be in a state of hero worship of all of the group. He is quick to get food and drink as well as other things if the group is in need of things.
Tishe' and Stripes Monday July 3rd, 2006 11:24:22 PM
With the young man settling down, Tishe' will take the opportunity to ask him questions and tell of her travels to him in turn. While she will not mention Rattledam other than a place she visited once very briefly (which is the truth!), she is willing to talk a long time about HookCity on the banks of the Hook River on the north border of the Sargrass.
"When is the BloodMoon when the Barons will come for trainees?"
"You seem to know who we are even though we have never been here. What stories are there of the Bloodpack?"
As usual, she misses all of the romantic overtones in the conversation.
In the morning, she'll break her fast on whatever is available, spending an hour in contemplation of the wonders of Mother Maab with spellbook in hand. Only then is she ready to meet the Elder.
Trellus Tuesday July 4th, 2006 9:58:31 AM
The cleric listens to the boy's stories, but doesn't really pay much attention to him once Jake starts in with the tricks. Since both the boy AND Jake are now occupied, Trellus can turn back to the thornier issue of where these folks fit into his Wold-view.
While Jake and boy play, the blond man goes to talk with Gilan and whoever else is in the area. "Gil, these dudes are not the Barons we've woven with before," he remarks. "Sounds like they get kidnapped and brainwashed or something." Trellus ponders the question a while. "I wonder if maybe the monks could help protect these villages. That'd help these folks and dry up the Barons at the same time. Totally shady."
He sets standard watches through the night, and come morning, dutifully prays to Domi for spells and strength for the upcoming day. The cleric casts protective spells on his armor and shield, and then walks over to the rest of the group.
"These are for you dudes," he says. Trellus hands each member of the Bloodpack a platinum ring, dark red in color [50 gp value]. "Flea's ribbons are getting pretty chewed up, so I thought I'd take a turn." He grins. "Plus, I gotta spell I can cast using these rings that might protect you if things get totally twisted."
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday July 4th, 2006 8:08:43 PM
Gilan looks up as Trellus comes over as he eats an apple that the young kid had brought in earlier with some other fruit. Looking to Jake as he mesmerizes the youth with his own tricks he shakes his head. "Jake has other uses than chasing woman it seems." He laughs under his breathe as he does not want to disturb the youth and Jake.
With the question posed he takes another bite from the apple as he takes the time to think. "It might be possible but the real problem is distance...this village is too far away from our home to get real help." He cannot see Galafar being on the right side of helping these people out. "I doubt that you could talk the monks into helping...even Malafret would be hard to convince into the need to help here...the council sees what they want to see only." He did not want to say it so bluntly but he already knows that all the pack realizes this.
Taking another bite of the apple he chews it for awhile and then shakes his head further. "How many here do you think would wish a different life...do the Barons have men here that noone knows about? I doubt that they do not already know that we are here." With a real laugh that he does not care draws the youth's attention he tosses the last of the apple to the side. "Do you actually think the Barons would mind us killing ourselves or two enemies killing each other...the Bloodpack and the Oglian killed off or mortally wounded...probably would be a dream." He thinks of the rest of the village for a few minutes and shakes his head. "Either way we do them a service...getting killed, killing the Oglian and saving this village." For himself the bigger picture is that they must do what is right even if it helps out thier enemy. "If it was adults lost to the Oglian, I would not mind letting the Barons fend for themselves...but the children are innocent in this."
Ciaran has fallen asleep with his head upon his brother's pack. He lightly snores and kicks in his sleep as if chasing something. He looks so peacefull and not the savage that he can be in battle.
Jake d20+10=22 Tuesday July 4th, 2006 10:25:47 PM
He stops to pour the kid a little cup of glass grass and enjoys some for himself from his own mug. Jake relaxes the kid with some disarming jokes and a few tales about their previous fights. Like, the ant creatures in their caves... "Dozens of them there were, each the size of that wolf right there. And each could tear a person in half with its big, nasty pincers. Not only that, but they were smart, too... As we came rushing in, we tumbled into cunningly designed pits. Nonetheless, Gry led the way, and Trellus kept up Domi's healing on us, and we plowed right into their hives!" (perform 22) Jake almost physically relives the final fight, then talks enamoredly of the strange diamond, that released the captured being... "Ya know, what? That wasn't half as exciting as the time we all rode dragons, though... but that's a good story for another time. But it isn't all exciting and happy.. we've also seen some of the horrible things the Barons do. Destroying the most precious life of the plains, using force to control everyone... It makes me sad, seeing people live under their thumb." Jake sighs, feeling some pity for the town. Jake goes back to a more comfortable subject...girls. "So what's this girl's name ye're getting hitched up to? She have a sister?" he nudges the kid, grinning. "Actually, that woman, Rayla, she wasn't so bad looking... But, you've gotta watch out those bossy women. They're too much trouble if you don't lay down the law..." He grins at the kid.
Tishe' Wednesday July 5th, 2006 2:44:31 PM
[OOC: Oh, dear we do seem to still have a posting problem.]
Grymash Wednesday July 5th, 2006 7:51:28 PM
Grymash emerges from an outhouse looking fatigued and rubbing his eyes. As if having spent the night in the little wooden structure. "Uhhh!" is all he can say as he tries to shake a little sense back into his head. "Uhhh... yooz dudes hungry? Gry be starvin!"
(sorry, hadnt had access for the past couple of days.)
Flea d20+23=43 d20+14=33 d20+11=13 d20+9=15 d20+4=10 Wednesday July 5th, 2006 9:52:57 PM
Flea sits quietly in a dark corner of the dark building set aside for the pack's use. She studies Trellus' gift as she listens to those wiser than she speculate about the provenance of the metal dome that lets the stars shine through, and the strange folks who seem like those back in Rattledam but who pay a tribute of youths to the Barons.
With a few graceful movements of her hands, the rogue casts the simple spell that sets four glowing spheres of light to dance in a 10 foot radius in front of her. "Not much different then home, you know," she says, unconsciously referring to Rattledam. "Sending packs out onto the plains to face Bounder, and Rapke, and all manner of other beasts? For what? For some ridiculous cycle that keeps creating more things with razor teeth and crushing rolling legs and screams? For some golden door we never get to look behind?" It is unclear if the gnome is referring to the Bloodpack or the hunting party on the plains beyond the great metal dome. Flea flicks a hand and the spheres move as if riding the current of a breeze, before settling down once again. "Who is this 'Elder'? She asks, ignoring the boy Jake is joking with, "some beater monk?"
*******
Flea will accept whatever watch is assigned, but instead of sleeping when it is her turn, she will slip outside. Staying in the shadows of dwellings and such, she will creep as far as she dares in the direction of the sounds of drums and wailing cries to learn what she can of the happenings in the night.
Hide=43, nat. 20! Move Silently=33 Listen=13 Spot=15 Bardic Knowledge=10 (to recognize/understand anything of the drums/wails)
Wails and Woes. (DM Jim) Wednesday July 5th, 2006 10:54:47 PM
The youth looks to Tishe' and blushes slightly as he speaks. "They say the Bloodpack is full of giants, who fight like demons from the beyond. That they come from a city much like out own with a dome of grass." He sighs as he settles back upon the bench and seems to ignore Jake's question of his bethroved. "The Barons say that you are thier enemy but that you fight with honor. It is really kind of strange but they seem to respect you as much as fear you...though that is tinged with hate as well." He falls silent as he picks up a piece of fruit and takes a bite of it. "Despite how much the Barons may hate you...they sent use to you so that you could help us out." He falls silent as that is about all that he has heard and most of it is fairy tales to what he sees before him...though Grymash does fit part of what he has heard.
As the night finally falls the youth falls into a light sleep. The rest of the pack falls asleep as well though they do stand their watches. Hostile territory is not the best of places to let down your guard.
During her own watch, Flea slips out into the village proper and makes her way through the shadows. As she nears the sight of the wailing and drums she notices the torches are set up and burning here...not much shadow to hide in. Still from her place she is able to make out the forms of several women in a large building. She sees no bodies in evidence but can tell easily that the women are moarning for lost loves.
Flea notices that a hawkish nosed woman of maybe late twenties is presiding over the women. You can make out the eye of Gargul but it is not the same as the one that Grymash wears...it is of the old Gargul. Once or twice she seems to look in your direction but does not move out of the building or even seem to acknowledge that you are there.
The next morning comes maybe a little faster than you had planned. There were no incidents during the night and the watches saw nothing of note. At about ten the young female hunter that brought you in shows up and looks over the group with a critical eye. "The elder will see you as soon as you are ready." She does not move from her spot near the door but does dismiss the young Dugin.
Tishe' and Stripes d20=12 Thursday July 6th, 2006 12:09:59 AM
Feeling that this is a more formal occasion, Tishe' decides to put away her Walker clothes, and get out her buff robes of airy plant-wool. Giving Stripes a quick brushing, she removes her oaken staff with a green gem at the tip from her pants 'o plenty and tries to create a serene and in control glide to meet the Elder. (Perform: 12)
Not wanting to lead in a diplomatic discussion, she keeps back, allowing the silver tongued Trellus and Jake to take the lead. Tishe' and Stripes are content to hang back in the shadow of the comforting Mac and Grymash.
Jake Thursday July 6th, 2006 6:57:33 AM
Jake's interested by the fact that the Barons are impressed by the bloodpack, and their reputation is fearsome. It's great to be so shady, he thinks to himself, wrapping up after his watch that night. In the morning, he feels pretty fine. Time to talk up to these elders...though Trellus seems to have it pretty well in hand. Where Trellus has a silver tongue filled with niceties and formalities, Jake's tongue is like a snake slurping down honeyed glass grass. He'll only speak if they need to make a point, or something interesting is left unspoken.
Trellus Thursday July 6th, 2006 10:59:46 AM
Trellus can only nod in agreement with Flea. The Bloodpack sure spends a lot of time getting led around by their nose.
Its something of a comfort to realize the Barons have plently of respect for them, if nothing else.
That morning, the cleric takes his spells, and immediately casts protections on his armor and shield. [Magic Vestment - extended with Rod, recast same using Pearl of Power]
"All you dudes ready?" he asks his friends. "OK, let's go see this beater." He waits a couple beats before adding (with a grin) "And see how sunbaked we really are."
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday July 6th, 2006 4:06:36 PM
Gilan is up early as usual and goes about his morning prayers with Ciaran. After a short amount of time he is back inside the building they are using. He does not try to change his appearance much, just straightens the long tail of hair that hangs down his back.
Looking to Trellus he shakes his head. "No matter how respected they may find us...they also consider us enemies...so why choose us?" He does not voice much of anything else as he takes a little of the food brought in for breakfast. Otherwise he lounges around and spends time talking to Ciaran.
When it is time to go he stands with Ciaran at his side. He does glance to Trell and gives a smile. "We like trouble and you know it." He touches the ring that was given to him by Trell yesterday night. It's blood color stands out next to the silver one that he already wears upon that finger. "Thanks again for the ring Trell." Looking around to the others he wonders if they are all ready and maybe as worried about this as he is.
Flea Thursday July 6th, 2006 6:35:54 PM
Flea hears Gilan's comment, and decides to answer. "They choose us for the same reason the Rattledam monks sent us out onto the plains in the first place. Most of us aren't really from around here," she says, " 'cept maybe Trellus, and Tishe', sort of. Most of us are foundlings or run-aways after getting into trouble at home." Flea digs her toe into the dirt of the ground, "look, Gry here was 'dopted. So was Jake, until his family kicked him out. You an I fell off a boat. 'nuk did something bad, but wouldn't talk about it. The others too, Ulgren, Mac, they're all misfits. If something happens to us, no one would really care, would they?"
Flea plays with the fringed edge of the scarf tied 'round her waist, adding, "All we have is each other."
When the female hunter shows up, Flea lines up her her pack.
Tishe' and Stripes(2nd Post) Friday July 7th, 2006 12:16:08 AM
Introspective for a moment, Tishe' thinks about what her pack is saying. She touches the scarlet sash that Grymash gave her and the bloodred ring that Trellus gave and unconsciously rubs the ruby Dragon's Tear embedded in her chest.
All misfits. Always in trouble. And the barons respect them. This was a very good idea, she thinks, coming and learning more about the Barons. There is so much to think about.
And then a new thought. "Trellus, you and your family is from Rattledam and not a foundling? Maybe they knew my mother!" The spellweaver becomes very excited. "Oh, when we get back to Rattledam, I have to meet your parents!" Her brown eyes are bright with the thought of tracking down her ancestry.
Argue Between the Heads. (DM Jim) Friday July 7th, 2006 2:18:10 AM
With the whole pack ready to move out and see this elder, the female hunter moves out of the building the group had slept in. They pass through the village with many stares and whispers from those that live there. Many of them are hard at work in fields or herding prairie pigs out so that they can feed. The one oddity that you pass that draws your attention is a fenced in area that currently has about a dozen rapke in it. A pair of youths look up as you are passing and wave at the female hunter who waves back, shaking her head and smiling. As your group passes they go back to thier duties of cleaing two of the rapke in the pen.
At last the steps of the female hunter slow and you can hear voices raised in anger ahead. Ahead of you is Bikle and Zak leaning against the wall of a building. It is Rayla, an elderly man who is leaning heavily on a cane and a hawkish nosed younger woman that are the cause of the commotion. Also present but nearer the elderly man is another young woman who is shaking her head at the whole thing. As you get even closer you notice that the young female near the elderly man touches his should lightly and leans in to whisper in his ear. The arguement is suddenly stopped as all four of the people turn to look upon the group and the female hunter.
It is the young woman at the elderly man's side that speaks first and motions the group even closer. "Come closer Bloodpack and meet Elder Deegan...he wishes to speak with you and I suppose that you would have questions of him as well." She wears her raven black hair loose and bits of it blows across her face in the morning breeze. The elderly man locks his gaze upon the group with curiousity and a little bit of envy. Though the years have caught up with him, you can tell by his movements and stance that once long ago he was a fighter. "My granddaughter speaks the truth Bloodpack...though I can tell that you do not want to be here." There is a hint of laughter in his voice that just seems to put you at ease.
Rayla has moved off to the side to stand near her two fellow hunter. She does not seem to be happy as she does this stiffly and the heels of her boots bite into the ground. Bikle and Zak just seem to be amused by the whole proceeding as they each have smirks painted upon their almost identicle faces. Lastly is the hawkish nosed woman who flips back her blonde hair with an air of superiority. She seems to be even more upset than Rayla does and she is currently shaking her head. Her eyes do sweep the group with a mixture of curiousity, hope and something else that a finger cannot be put on.
Elder Deegan waits for the group to approach as close as they want and then he inclines his head. "It is good to meet the Bloodpack." With a wave of his hand to each person in turn he makes introductions and you notice that the female hunter that led you here is not present any longer. "This is my granddaughter Jalian and Bertina the witch woman...I believe that you already know Rayla, Bikle and Zak...three of our best hunters." The woman, Bertina, turns her head as her name is spoken and her eyes linger a little longer on Flea and gives her a knowing nod. Jalian just nods her head to the group as she continues to hold the elbow of her grandfather.
Twenty feet from the group, perched upon a pole dedicated to Gargul, is a black raven. The banner that flies upon the pole is the older form of Gargul that you have seen before. It seems that these people pay worship to the old Gargul, before he became a good god.
Jake Friday July 7th, 2006 5:09:59 AM
Jake grins and steps forward, deciding to throw in a burst of civility. He takes off his hat and bows, "Thank you, Elder Deegan, for your kind words of welcome, and may ah speak for the Bloodpack in saying that we are delighted to make the acquaintance of your village. For myself in particular, ah must note with delight that though beauty rarely blooms in the endless Plains, this fine city has produced many wonderful blossoms that speak for the best of womankind." He glances, as he says this, to the fine femme with the shining black hair, the haughty hawkish-nosed blonde, and of course the huntress who escorted them. He grins, and speaks a bit easier, dropping a bit of the formality. "At least working with y'all to save yer children will be easy on the eyes. Anyways, here's Gry Mountainback o'Gargul, Trellus o'Domi, Mac's the minotaur with the horns, Gil and Tishe weaves the grass, Ulgren's as shady as they come with magic, and our little lady Flea, oh, and ah'm the real slim shady Jake O'Connell."
(I'm pretty sure that's it......gha, this'll bite if I miss someone.) "Seems you fellers around here tend to worship Gargul," he says, as a way of starting up conversation. "Gotta say, he's pretty impressive when you meet him..."
Tishe' and Stripes d20+6=17 d20=4 Saturday July 8th, 2006 12:24:18 AM
Keeping the ugly-headed hyena close to her side, Tishe' follows the young hunter and watches the village (Spot: 17). The brown-eyes widen then narrow at the sight of the penned rapke in the middle of the village. She uses the 'Tear to message Mac, "there must be some way to ensure they only scream on thier riders command, or they would be away from the village."
As they approach, something clicks in Tishe' that this is an odd group. Were they arguing about the Bloodpack? If so, they all seem pleased that we are here... She shakes her head and follows Jake's lead, giving a bow at the waist to the Elder and a smaller one for the lady and Rayla.
"We made a promise to Rayla", Tishe' says, pointing her hand marked by Gargul at the three hunters, "help for help. Rayla honored her promise, and we will honor our own."
She glances at her packmates, and, never able to keep her curiosity in check, she bluntly begins the questions. "What can you weave us about the Oglians and the piggies they stole from you? Any information could prove the master thread." (Diplomacy 4)
Trellus d20+7=14 d20+8=13 Saturday July 8th, 2006 6:34:32 PM
The cleric follows the young woman escorting them to "The Elder", carefully taking in everything he can about the village around him. The Rapke pen is a definite eye opener. If these dudes aren't really Barons, what's with the Rapke? Trellus watches the pen curiously as the pack passes by, trying to determine if these animals are "normal" or the malevolent ones he's seen Barons ride before. [Knowledge - Sargass: 14]
Tishe blurts out another of her odd questions. "Huh? Oh, uh, my grandparents were foundlings. My folks were born in Rattledam. Why would they know your mother?"
With the arguement stopping suddenly upon their arrival, it doesn't take a lot of guessing to figure who they were arguing about. Not Rayla's idea. OK. Or the other lady. Hmm
Jake jumps right in with the introductions, followed by Tishe's demand for information. Jake did OK, but Light, Tishe wasn't much help. "Many shadows, Elder," the cleric responds. "I must admit, we're surprised to be here in these circumstances." He nods at Rayla and the other two. "Your warriors seems pretty capable. We're curious as to why you asked for our aid." [Diplomacy 13]
Gilan and Ciaran Saturday July 8th, 2006 9:11:58 PM
Gilan follows along his eyes trailing along the village to take it all in. The sight of rapke in a pen and youths tending them makes his wonder as to what this village really is. How is it that they keep rapke and still say they are not Barons.
His attention is drawn to the sound of voices raised in anger or dispute. Taking in all the group that is waiting for them he keeps back just a little and does not say anything. He is happy to see that Jake makes introductions in as polite a manner as possible. He hides a smile as Tishe' blurts out her own questions and stifles a laugh.
While the others ask the questions he turns his own attention back to the rapke pens that they had seen earlier. His mind wanders over the looks of those rapke and the behavior that is suprising.
Ciaran stays at his side and seems content to just watch. He has never understood the way humans greet each other. Why can they not just sniff...well enough of that. He tilts his head up to look at his brother and licks his hand.
Off the Hook. (DM Jim) Saturday July 8th, 2006 9:38:43 PM
Elder Deegan smiles at the comments of Jake and then looks sideways at his granddaughter. "If you are interested my granddaughter here maybe looking for a future husband." Jalian blushes fiercly as her grandfather speaks so bluntly and she averts her eyes as to not have to look at anyone. Meanwhile Bertina turns a withering glare upon the elder as she shakes her head...seriously upset about something. Elder Deegan seems to not notice any of it as he listens to the questions and raises an aged hand to stall anything else. "I know of the conditions and that is what we are argueing about. I am releasing you from your obligation and ask you to do this one for the sake of the youths that are missing and for the Plains." He looks to Rayla who is now scowling at the elder and shaking her own head. The twins break into light laughter at the discomfort of their fellow hunter but are cut short as she whirls upon them.
Elder Deegan looks to Bertina who is also scowling even more than she had been a few minutes ago and shakes his head. "I told you that I make the decisions...my granddaughter and I have talked about this at length and it is not right to force them...even if we rendered them aid first." He turns back to the Bloodpack and gives you a light smile. "Yes...the Oglian. As you may have read and heard in legends...they were a race of ants that ruled the lower world of their catacombs. When an opening to the surface was found they moved to the surface to make raids upon the humanoids of the Plains. It took centuries to drive them back into the ground as all the inhabitants of the Plains came together to accomplish this feat. And yes that means that even the Barons joined in to help out." Looking to Rayla he waves her off with a simple signal, which she follows and is soon gone. "During all the time that they were able to get to the surface they killed many humanoids for food but it was only in the last few years of that time that they started to capture some alive...we only can suppose that it was for breeding purposes. These ants are not dumb but intelligent and the ones that attacked our village were very intelligent. It was magic that gave them the opening in the dome that protects our village and magics that allowed them to get away just as easily." He stops for a few minutes as Jalian leads him to the side to sit in a chair that is nearby, but she stays near his side. He pats her hand gently as he sighs and settles into the seat.
Jalian speaks up as her grandfather relaxes a little bit. "The youths that went missing are some of our hunters-in-training. Seems they thought they could scout out the Oglian and then return...thus securing thier status in the village and becoming full-fledged hunters." Her brow furrows in disapproval as she shakes her head at the foolishness. "They of course were not ready for this and when we sent four of our hunters after them...noone returned. We can only figure that they are lost in the cavern that opened, dead or taken as breeding stock for the Oglian. As to why we do not take care of this ourselves...that is simple, we have no hunters to spare in case they attack again." There is a humph from the side as Bertina shakes her own head. Jalian scowls again as she looks to the witch woman with great disapproval. "Grandfather leads and you do not. When the time comes I will take his place as his only living relative and you will serve me as you have served my grandfather." There is a look of pure murder in the eyes of Bertina that is gone in an instant.
Bertina speaks now with a voice full of scorn and a bit of anger as well. "They will not attack us again. As for help...I have said that I can get that for us." She looks sideways at the Bloodpack and then smiles. "Use what means you want." With that she walks away from the meeting, her raven settling upon her shoulder as she leaves.
Elder Deegan can only shake his head at the play between the witch woman and the soon to be leader of the village. He does not envy his granddaughter in any way. Bertina is a trying one that he has had to stand upon but she can do it. "The Barons send us to you to get help. I know not why they did not send riders of their own but instead instructed us to find the Bloodpack. I have released you from your debt of service to Rayla and IronHome...you are free to make your own choice." He squeezes Jalian's hand as he watches the group closely. "You must do as your heart guides you...we have survived almost certain destruction before...we will survive again."
Trellus and Gilan will realize that the rapke that are pened up are not of the same ilk as the Barons ride. These ones do not have the taint of evilness around them. In fact thinking back the ones that Rayla and the twins ride do not give off that aura either.
Trellus d20+5=18 Sunday July 9th, 2006 10:13:26 AM
Trellus notes with surprise and interest that these dudes have managed to domesticate wild Rapke without doing that 'evil aura' pick. Visions of the pack riding rapke mounts triumphantly into Rattledam flash through his head.... Shady. That would TRULY twist Galafar
The cleric's eyebrow goes up when Elder Deegan releases them from their promise. If he were a monk, Trellus would figure he was getting played - the ol "I release you so now you feel even more obligated to perform this service" ploy. But Deegan only knows them from rumor. He might be serious. [Sense Motive 18]
Trellus actually nods at the actions of the hunters-in-training. The story is not unlike a certain pack's own unauthorized first journey outside a town. Rayla's reaction makes sense too. She's jealous of the opportunity. Bertina though. That one wants to be in charge. She's gonna be trouble.
Back to the point of all this. We gotta do this, but we don't need to let them know we gotta do this.
"Elder Deegan, we thank you for releasing us from our promise. We seem to have much to learn from each other. I've heard stories of the Ogilan, none of them good. I agree, someone should go find out about them. As you need your remaining hunters for defense of your town, The Bloodpack will still help find the children."
Tishe' and Stripes Sunday July 9th, 2006 3:17:26 PM
The brown-haired girl knows there isn't time to talk of foundlings and parents now, so she gives an 'we'll talk later' look at the blonde cleric of Domi. She also looks quizzically at him when it sounds like he is reluctant to go after the children. Hmm, must be some ploy, she thinks. And since they are going anyways, it is useless to repeat what Trellus has already said.
"Is Bertina the representative of the Barons here in IronHome?", she wonders aloud. "It would make sense why she doesn't like us. It also fits the superior arrogance of the Barons we have met." As usual, Tishe' has no clue as to the impact her words may have on nearby listeners. "IronHome itself is lovely. I had no idea..."
Stripes butts his head against Tishe's hip demanding some attention, and the young wizard scratches the oversized head.
Flea d20-1=18 Sunday July 9th, 2006 11:53:56 PM
The gnome siddles over beside Grymash when the pack goes by the rapke pen. She stays on the side of the half-orc that is farthest away from the penned up creatures. During the meeting with the council or sorts, Flea looks to each speakers face, Deegan, Jalian, Jake, Trellus, in an attempt to discern their motives. When the witch woman looks at her, Flea recognizes the woman from the ceremony the night before. The gnome meets the other's gaze with her own pale blue stare, and tries to figure out her intentions as well (Sense Motive=18).
When Trellus has said his piece, the rogue slips over to his side. "What about a reward?? she whispers to the cleric. "Ask them for a reward!"
Jake Monday July 10th, 2006 6:51:53 AM
Jake spends his own time smiling at the ladies, while paying attention to the older man. Lotsa good lookin' femmes here...and he wonders whih one he'd have to choose in an emergency. Or first... "Not to brag, but we've fought these ant creatures before.." he grins confidentally, his own little piece added, and lets the others set conditions and such.
Gilan and Ciaran Monday July 10th, 2006 7:54:44 PM
Gilan crosses his arms across his chest as he listens to all that is going on. Now what is this man playing at? Could it be that Elder Deegan is a nice guy after all and he wants help that has no strings attached to it.
He cannot fault Trell for his thinking and keeps himself quiet as he studies the elder and the other present. The soon leaving form of the witch woman sets his hairs to standing on the back of his neck but that is an internal problem of this village and none of his. "Trell...should we get a guide to the entrance or just the direction?" He does not really care either way as he is sure they can find this entrance.
Ciaran continues to stand near his brother with little thought of moving. Maybe if some food was offered he might go to get a piece of meat but that does not seem to be coming anytime soon.
Grymash Monday July 10th, 2006 9:53:57 PM
Grymash half heartedly listens to the stories of the Elder. These are things of life and death and Grymash is well versed on the subject. What draws the lion's share of his attention is the pen of rapke. He's always hated them. Merciless and vicious, they killed without want or need, just for delight borne of the darkest evil. To look upon these here, he is shocked and amazed to see them in such a state. His normal urge would be to slit their throats. Grymash has those feelings still, but for a different reason. For these powerful creatures to be tamed, killing them would be a mercy.
In a low voice he asks Flea a question. "Whut Flea think bout them rapke? Gry wonders what magic da hunters use to break der spirit."
Mac Tuesday July 11th, 2006 4:34:15 AM
Mac stands patiently... ...looking at the rapke, but has no idea about training one. ...following the conversations as best he can, but knowing better than to speak just yet. ...glaring at Jake when he mentions meeting Gargul. ...imagining just how broken a rapke could get if he tried sitting atop one.
OOC: back from the silence!
Let it Commence. (DM Jim) Tuesday July 11th, 2006 2:05:04 PM
Elder Deegan nods his head in understanding as he takes note of some of the people looking in the direction of the rapke pen. "Beautiful creatures are they not." There is a hint of pride in his voice as he speaks and a bit of shame as well. "That is one reason that the Barons took our little village in. We have always raised rapke or at least for as long as I can remember as a wee lad. Each rapke you see there has a rider and they are just as wild as thier Plains born counterparts...the real difference is that these ones seem to imprint on a single rider for life." He shakes his head and his brows furrow. "Well that is not totally true...the Barons take wild ones too and they imprint on their riders as well." He starts to cough lightly and covers his mouth with his hand. The hand upon his granddaughter's slackens and soon there is an audible snoring coming from the chair.
Jalian waves over the twins who soon have the elder held between them. They carefully make their way to what appears to be a larger hut in the middle of the village...obviously the elders hut. "Please forgive my grandfather...he tends to do that in meetings as well." She sighs and looks a little bit sad as she knows that one day he will not be around. "Still, he tells me that if I am to take his place as head of the village I need to learn to assert myself." She motions the group to follow her though she stays near Trellus's side so that she can speak to him. "My grandfather is earnest with his release from the pact between yourselves and Rayla. If you walk away now he would not hold it against you and neither would I. I know that in your eyes we must seem like the enemy and to help your enemy is a hard thing." She stops speaking for a few minutes as she looks over her village and laughs. "Still...you would most likely like a reward for your services to the village as it will stand. So I will make it known that you are to keep all the things that the Oglian ran off with." She looks to Trellus with a look that she is looking for intelligence. "Yes they took more than bodies when they came here...they took some magic as well as well as other things of value....though I am not sure why, I have a guess." You notice that she is leading you to a side building that attaches to the worship building. Flea will notice the larger building as the one that the drums and incense was coming from last night, as well as where she saw Bertina.
She enters the smaller shed and motions you to still follow her. Once inside of the building you notice laying on a platform the large body of an ant. Just a cursory observation tells you that it is at least six feet long and stands four feet high, with wicked mandibles and an obvious stinger on the tail end. "This was left when they attacked us. Though Bertina has studied it a little we are no closer to an answer than our ancesters were." Pointing to the corner she gets you to notice a large basket. "It was carrying this on it's back, all harnessed on." She glances around to make sure that no prying ears are near to hear what she is about to say. "Bertina is not a Baron or a spy...or at least we do not think so. She was born here just like I was. She just has her own plans for her future but underneath she is a good woman." She waits to see what the pack will have to say and see if they will still help. She also needs to know if she needs to make any preparations for them.
My posting may slow down a little as we are having some storms roll through. That is why no DM post yesterday and it the storms are likely to continue today and tomorrow. Still I will try to get DM posts in anyways.
Trellus Tuesday July 11th, 2006 9:05:10 PM
The blond cleric's response to Flea is a silent look over at Ulgren. As far as he's concerned, they've been rewarded already.
To Gilan, he answers. "If they got someone they can spare, a guide would help."
Trellus is very startled when Elder Deegan just goes to sleep like that. Jalian seems to take it in stride though, so he goes along, falling into step beside her as they head for the temple or whatever.
He nods, and shoots Flea a wry smile as Jalian offers the reward. Score one for the gnome.
they took some magic as well as well as other things of value....though I am not sure why, I have a guess she says. She's also evaluating him. Just like Galafar always does. Trellus does his own evaluating right back. This girl is gonna have to keep the thread on Bertina wound tight, or the Bloodpack could come back - probably tore up - to a bad welcome. "What would that guess be?" he responds.
They enter the room, and see the critter. Trellus rubs the stubble on the back of his neck, pondering it. "Whaddya think, Gil?" he asks, before shooting a question at his hostess. "Did you notice any kind of mind control, the ants taking over the mind of people and making them do stuff or anything like that?"
He points to the stinger. "That thing poisonous?"
Jake d20+10=16 d20+8=24 Wednesday July 12th, 2006 8:13:48 AM
Jake lets the others talk and listen, and finds himself wandering away from the others. So while everyone's heading one way, he's just heading the other, half-noticeable (Hide 16 as he moves athat way). Attracted to the rapke pen... He's half heard what the elder said about thema ll, and at first anger at the villages for raising them for the barons had turned to a sort of curiousity. The way they put it it's almost as natural as being part of the Plains themselves...well, there's different ways of being part of the plains, he reminds himself. Not everyone has to be a druid, like Gil. He finds himself near enough to be able to even approach one near the fence, and does so in a disarming enough way that he might actually be able to feed it. (Animal Handling 24)
Gilan and Ciaran d20+19=27 d20+19=30 Wednesday July 12th, 2006 9:26:58 AM
Gilan slips inside of the building with the rest and then takes a closer look at the Olgian that lays upon the platform. "If the stories are to believed and I do not doubt some of history...I would say this is nothing but an enlarged ant." He lifts legs and checks out the head of the beast with growing interest. "These front feet are almost like hands and from the looks I would gather that they have more than just insect intelligence." His surprise is growing by the minute as he inspects the large insect more closely.
Not waiting for an answer from Jalian he moves to the back of the insect and checks out the stinger. Most notibly he is looking for a gland that would indicate poison. Looking to Tishe' he cannot help but smile and indicate the insect. "You love a mystery and this is one of the greats." His own excitement leads him to not even notice that Jake is missing from the group.
[knowledge(nature) 27 and knowledge(Plains) 30]
Tishe' and Stripes Wednesday July 12th, 2006 3:41:56 PM
Tishe' absently nods her head in response to Gilan, her mind already taking in the giant ant on the table. "The stories I remember of the Oglians say that they were ant-like, not giant ants. I don't think this is an actual Oglian."
"They also took magical items, and we have to assume deliberately. If so, they can identify magic and either use it or make use of it, and either answer leads us to a race that can manipulate things like the ant-taurs we fought in the Scab." Tishe' cocks her head and tucks a stray lock of wavy brown hair behind an ear. "And if Oglians are the same race, then they would be able to mind-control normal giant ants to be thier troops."
Stripes doesn't like the dead insect on the table and growls, but his human barely notices, her brown eyes are alight with the possibilities.
Mac Wednesday July 12th, 2006 6:04:56 PM
Mac nods slowly. "Obliged or not, I'm in."
Flea Wednesday July 12th, 2006 8:01:12 PM
"I dunno, Gry" Flea answers the half-orc. "Must be some powerful magiks, anyway, I would think."
When talk turns to the ant-creatures, the rogue looks at her feet. Much as she is nimble, and clever, her mind was no match for the magiks of the ant creatures. The rogue blushes at the remembrance of what she had done to Trellus' wand, and she nervously twists her newest ring.
The Enemy Revealed. (DM Jim) Wednesday July 12th, 2006 9:49:03 PM
As the Bloodpack goes over the Oglian with a fine-toothed comb, Jalian listens with interest to your observation. "Bertina says that the stinger is indeed poisoned...though this one is not as toxic...she sermises that the others maybe more toxic. As to the things they took...lures and maybe to use." She steps closer to the dead ant and looks at it with a critical eye. "This is an Oglian of that we are sure...they seem to have classes when they attacked...this one was a worker or carrier as that is all that it did, but there were others with real useable arms that could make use of weapons other than these natural ones." She taps the pinchers and points to the stinger to get her point across.
Gilan and Tishe' both have found a series of rather nice poison glands upon the end of the ant. It seems that the ant has a variety of different types of toxins in this one caste.
Jalian laughs lightly and then shakes her head. "The ants did not seem to be able to control others but the worked as a unit...defeating some of our best defenses...I would guess that they can communicate between each other." She glances around the room and notes that one of the group is missing but does not give it much thought. Surely this group would be more worried than they appear if his absence was a big matter, though she does comment. "Where is the handsome one with the funny hat?"
Jake back outside and at the corral finds that he is able to get close to one of the rapke that is near the fence. One of the lads looks up as he offers it a bit of food and wanders over that way. "That one belongs to Rayla and is gentler than the rest." The rapke has taken the food and is currently chewing on it as it stares at Jake with large eyes. "You have an interest in rapke and how to raise them?" The boy seems genuinely interested in not only Jake's interest but also in the stranger himself. He cannot wait to tell all his friends that he got to talk to one of the living legends...the giants of the Plains.
As the group continues to look over the Oglian, Jalian smiles. "I heard something about a guide...Rayla would lead you to the entrance but she will need to return her right after." She cannot help but be worried about the safety of the people that she is soon to lead. "We must be ready for an attack." As soon as the Pack is ready to leave Jalian will have Rayla waiting for them at the front gate and will lead them there herself.
This ant is not like the ones at the Scab. This one is almost no different than a real ant but it does have a pair of legs in the front that are able to crudely manipulate things. A true Oglian, according to legends, are much like the ants from the Scab but a lot bigger and smarter.
Jake Thursday July 13th, 2006 6:46:27 AM
Jake glances at the kid with an amused, sly smile between feeding the monstrous beast a handful of proferred sluggy mass. It doesn't even bite his hand, that's how careful this thing is...though the smooth packer doesn't leave enough prairie pig left on his hand that he risks getting too close to its razor sharp teeth. "Yah...was a time when ah remember, chasin' after prairie pigs like you prob'ly do for mah elders, and the thing always had to watch out for was the big bad rapke. Was told if we went outside the nest and saw one while running around, it'd be the last thing we'd see. Saw some from far away e'en so.. Ain't till ah was in the pack and we were fightin' 'em that ah got this close to one before. Was probably one of the scariest fights ah remember... But y'know, when ah'd see one from far away, ah'd always be amazed by 'em. They're just wonderful, amazing creatures... "Ya know, ah finally did see one of them creatures ah read about in a book...a horse? Ain't nuthin' half-compared to a rapke. Rapke'd eat one of them in ten seconds. Ah admire you people for being able to ride 'em, but you're also half-crazy if you can do so..." Jake grins over at the boy. "And a GIRL rides one of these, ah find that especially hard to believe...ah mean, they're too soft and breakable, ah can't imagine one---" Jake, now on one of his favorite subjects, chatters for a bit about women... and lets the boy choose the next topic, really.
Tishe' and Stripes Thursday July 13th, 2006 4:36:01 PM
The plain-faced woman listens to Jalian's words and tries to imprint them into her mind. "Better and worse than the ant-taurs at the same time", she murmurs. "Well, there's nothing else to do than to begin weaving. The faster we string the loom, the sooner there is good cloth."
Tishe' will gladly accept Rayla as a guide, but then looks around at Jalian's words. "Funny hat? Jake? Where IS Jake?" In the presence of the ant, the small woman forgot all about her other packmates.
Stripes, not liking enclosed spaces, leads his human out of the room and into the light of IronHome.
Trellus Thursday July 13th, 2006 5:18:23 PM
The cleric gives a business-like nod as he absorbs the information from his packmates and Jalian.
"OK Dudes, we're dealing with big honkin smart bugs with hands and poison stingers. So they can likely weave with weapons, magic, an' spells just like us. We gotta figure their tunnels are trapped, and they got a plan to defend it."
Trellus flashes his trademark 'this will be fun' grin.
"So, no problem."
The blond man is still chuckling as he accepts the offer of Rayla as guide. And then looks around in confusion when she asks about Jake. Trellus rolls his eyes. "Weaving trouble, no doubt," he answers with a sigh. "Let's go see where he got off to."
Trellus leaves the room, and heads back into the open.
Gilan and Ciaran Thursday July 13th, 2006 6:08:21 PM
Gilan is caught up in what Jalian is saying about the ants and the possible use of the things they took. "Shinies are always tempting." Touching the stinger lightly he tests it's sharpness and pulls away a finger that is bleeding. "Man that thing is sharp." He wonders how well it will do against armors and decides not to test his idea as he knows Trell will not like it.
He is only half listening when Jalian mentions what can only be Jake as he nods in agreement with the others for a guide. "Rayla seems a reliable sort...if not a little upset about our deal being broken." Only when Trell and Tishe' comment about Jake being gone does he look around and notice that it is true.
"Light." He takes the single word from his friend's speeches and then uses another in his next. "That dude just cannot stay out of trouble." He flashes a grin to Trell as he follows him out of the building and into the light. "Lets find Jake then Trell and use some of this daylight." His hand absently finds the head of his brother as he searches the area for Jake.
Ciaran looks up enjoying the attention to his ears. His tongue lolls out the side of his head as he leans into his brother's leg.
Flea Thursday July 13th, 2006 7:14:44 PM
Flea's face visibly brightens when there is mention that these creatures don't seem to exercise mind control as part of their combat tactics. The gnome square's her shoulders, and follows her pack mates outside.
Grymash Thursday July 13th, 2006 8:25:08 PM
Grymash looks up from contemplating the complexities of his navel and answers Trellus' remarks with a simple, "YEAH!!" He then flicks away whatever contents he procured and starts in on sharpening his double axe with his whetstone. Sparks trail off his blade with every stroke.
Preparing to Move Out. (DM Jim) Friday July 14th, 2006 12:58:35 AM
With a last look to the Oglian that lays in the building the groups moves outside to look for Jake and most likely save him...from himself. Jalian follows you out and looks around herself as the rest of the group look for Jake. From this building noone can see the rapke pens where Jake is standing and talking to the youth. It appears that Jake is nowhere to be found and that leads you to many ideas...most involving the young woman of this village.
Jalian does motion over one of the villagers to have them go and find Rayla and have her waiting at the front gates for the Bloodpack, with her mount. The villager races off to find the hunter and deliver the mesage as Jalian shakes her head. "Shall we head back the way we came...maybe your man is along that path." Looking to Trellus she falls into step with him still talking a little. "So does this Jake have a wife or girlfriend where he comes from?" It appears that yet another woman is smitten with the shadowy Jake.
Over at the rapke pen Jake is talking to the young lad that comes over about this and that, till the talk turns to his favorite subject...females. The youth looks to Jake with a certain show of respect. "If you are looking for a good wife, Jalian is going to be needing a husband before long." Looking both directions he gives an impish smile. "I also hear that Bertina the witch woman is looking for a suitable match as well." For some reason this raises some laughter from the youth as he goes back to scrubbing the rapke.
Shortly the form of Rayla appears in the distance heading for the rapke pen at a fair clip. She glances to the form of Jake and the youth with a perterbed shake of her head. As she draws nearer she puts her hands on her hips and stops to look at Jake and the youth. "Saddle my rapke boy and be quick about it." She then turns to Jake with a little bit of a surprised look. "I though the Bloodpack was meeting me at the front gate?" Leaning upon one of the post of the pen she looks Jake up and down and then snorts. "Didn't get lost did you?" She laughs lightly though you can see she arches an eyebrow looking for an answer.
Tishe' and Stripes Friday July 14th, 2006 2:45:25 PM
If they are getting ready to go to the grass, Tishe' would like to have a few minutes to herself and change. First chance she gets, the plain-faced woman disrobes from the formal mage attire and gets into her much more useful and comfortable tunic and leggings. Pushing her wavy brown hair into a ponytail at the base of her neck, she retrieves staff and crossbow, and is ready to be with the others at the front gate.
Stripes takes his opportunity to renew his acquaintance with the other members of his human's pack. He sniffs and rubs against Flea, Grymash, Mac, Trellus, and Gilan, but then stops hesitantly at the wolf. Ciaran is an animal of the pack that is very much like Stripes himself. Cautiously, he lowers his head and smiles, offering a sniff as invitation to become closer to this other four-footed packmate.
Jake Friday July 14th, 2006 2:51:47 PM
"Couldn't help but admire the rapke, miss," Jake replies, smiling slightly. He leans against the post next to her, just near enough to be comfortable without being so far away as to indicate an uninterested presence. He waves over at the rapke, with a swish of his fingers indicating them, "Always been impressed by them...one time when ah was a kid, ah saw a herd of bounders milling about, and suddenly a pack of rapke came in, terrorizing 'em into a stampede.. Ah hid in the grass and they ran right over me, not seeing me. That was the closest ah'd gotten to a rapke till now, ah suppose. And they're quite different when calm." He smiles and turns his attention back to her, fully, with a killer smile. "Ah'm impressed that you can ride one. Well, not just that you can ride one, but that you're brave enough to. Then again, you know how the most bright and attractive grasses are the ones animals avoid eating? Perhaps there's something there..." He smiles at her, and suddenly asks, "Oh wait, we're meeting at the front gate?" He glances towards that area, then back to her and smiles. "Well, ah guess there's no rush."
Grymash d20+6=12 Friday July 14th, 2006 7:29:55 PM
Grymash accepts Stripe's affections and returns them in kind. However, for a brief moment the half-orc pauses to admire the animals more "succulent" qualities. He licks his jowls and his tusks rise from under his lips like flora welcoming the first drops of rain. He quickly shakes his head to gather his senses. "Dudes ... when Gry gonna gets some eatin'!?"
(Will save 12)
Flea Friday July 14th, 2006 7:31:56 PM
The gnome follows her packmates, keeping a distance from the rapke pens. As the party waits at the gates for stray members, she smiles at the ugly face of Tishe's strange dog-friend, and reaching our both hands gives it a good scratch behind it's ears and on the top of it's hard skull.
Trellus Friday July 14th, 2006 8:44:58 PM
Trellus frowns, "The dude's gotta be around here somewhere," he says dubiously. "Not even Jake would, uh, go visiting when we're about to go shuttlecocked." However, the blond man's tone doesn't quite match the conviction of his words.
He follows Jalian toward the gate, eyes moving around the village. We don't see him by the time we get to the gate, he tells himself, then we start rethinking these Baron's intentions.
"Hey Mac, Gry. How loud can you dudes yell?" he asks. "Think Jake might hear you?"
Gilan and Ciaran Saturday July 15th, 2006 12:52:22 AM
Gilan follows along with the others as he keeps his eyes open for Jake but see nothing at the moment. He reaches down to scratch the head of the hyena of Tishe''s. He watches the play between his wolf and the hyena with a shake of his head. "Be nice Ciaran." He does not doubt that his brother would have been nice anyways but it is always good to reinforce such things.
Ciaran takes the the hyena with a large lick on the side of the muzzle. It seems that Ciaran thinks of the other animal as part of his pack. As the move to the gate he splits his attention between his brother and his new friend.
The Old Jake. (DM Jim) Saturday July 15th, 2006 1:02:26 AM
As the group moves towards the gates with Jalian the come across Jake near the rapke pen. He is standing with Rayla at the side and seem to be deep in conversation. It also appears that Jake is putting the moves on the hunter as well.
Rayla looks to Jake with a smile and then looks to see how the boy is doing with her mount. "He chose me the day he was hatched so it is no surprise that I can ride him. He is a little gentler than most of the rapke in this pen but still not to be taken lightly." She takes another look at Jake and sighs. If she only had the time she would have shown this young man a thing or two about riding. "I was found by one of the hunters-in-training and told that I was needed at the gate with my mount. I was to guide the Bloodpack to the opening of the Oglian tunnels and then return here." She looks up and waves to Jalian as she spots her with the rest of the group. About that time the youth comes out with her mount, saddled and ready to go.
Most of the rest of the trip to the gate is spent in silence as the Baron villagers wonder if they will see the Bloodpack again. Jalian does not see them as bad people and wonders what it is about them that makes the Barons hate them. At the gate she turns to the Bloodpack first. "I hope to see you again...with the youths that disappeared or at least with some word of their fate." She then turns to Rayla with a slight smile. "Rayla...lead them as instructed and then return here with all haste. We must not be caught unawares and with part of our strength missing." She gives the other woman a quick hug before ordering the gate open.
Rayla leads the group out of the gate and to the south into the Plains tall grasses. She takes it slow for the pack to keep up with her. The morning is wearing thin as she slows and points in the direction ahead of her. "The entrance is another three hundred feet directly ahead and then down a light slope...you cannot miss it." She waits for you in case you have any final words before she heads back.
Spell lists will be needed.
Trellus Saturday July 15th, 2006 4:45:54 PM
Trellus can't help but marvel. "Put the dude on an island in the middle of the sunbaked ocean, and he'd still find a girl," he murmurs softly. He pitched his voice low so Jalian wouldn't hear. Its likely only Grymash and Mac did.
At the gate, he grins confidently at the girl. "We'll find 'em," he says.
As the Bloodpack follows Rayla, the cleric's demeanor shifts into "Grass" mode. Eyes and ears alert, he's constantly looking around, tracking packmates and companions. You pay attention out here, or really bright picks tend to happen.
Trellus is all business by the time Rayla drops them off. He asks a quick question - "Do they guard the entrance?", and then waits pointedly for her to leave. He's beginning to feel more at ease around these 'almost Barons', but not enough to let her see them gearing up.
Once she's gone, the blond man breaks out a wand and casts a spell on each member of the pack. [Neutralize Poison - duration 70 minutes]
He has more prep work, but it depends on whether the entrance is guarded.
Spells in Effect: Neutralize Poison - 70 mins Magic Vestment - Shield Magic Vestment - Armor
Mac Saturday July 15th, 2006 9:02:12 PM
No sooner does Mac deeply inhale to bellow for Jake, than the pack runs across him. The long exhale follows.
Walking through the grass, he remains alert and ready, but still not very talkative.
Gilan and Ciaran Saturday July 15th, 2006 10:16:59 PM
Gilan follows along as the make their way through the grass. He had been only able to shake his head earlier at Jake. Little did he know that Trell was saying what he was thinking about the smooth talker.
As Rayla moves away from the group he looks to Trell as he starts to prepare for the fight to come. He waves off the protection from poison with a knowing smile. "I have no need for that when it is natural poisons." He has found that in the last couple of weeks he can shed poison as easy as the Manfri weave through the grass.
Looking to Flea as Anuk is no longer with them he waves in her direction. "Should we let Flea sneak up to the ridge and have a look?" She would be the easiest to sneak up there and have a look to see if they posted guards. She could also make it back to them with the least problems as well.
Tishe' (AC19, HP 53/53) and Stripes (AC20, HP 31/31) Sunday July 16th, 2006 6:04:41 AM
The pack is together and moving through the 'Grass, and Tishe' moves through the stalks with Stripes on her heels constantly on alert for any activity.
At the Oglian entrance, the small woman does have one question for Rayla. "How many were taken? I don't want to search for fifty when only ten went underground."
Taking her cues from Trellus, she also waits until the pack is alone before bringing out magical support. She casts Mage Armor on herself with her extend rod, and shares with Stripes.
"Flea, I can cast Longstrider on you if you want to keep your boots for emergencies"
"And we don't know how long we're going to be underground, so conserve your magic", she tells her packmates.
Stripes waits for the others, content to let the pack sort out the hunting order.
Druid Spells 0- Know Direction, Detect Magicx2, Mending 1- Longstrider, Faerie Fire, Speak w Animals 2- Fog Cloud, Summon Swarm
Arcane Spells White -- Acid Splash, Read Magic, Lightx2, Prestidigitation Red -- Grease, Summon I, Shieldx2, Mage Armor Orange -- Glitterdust, See Invisibility, Webx2 Yellow -- Summon III, Dispel Magicx2
Flea d20+23=40 d20+11=25 d20+9=23 d20+14=24 d20+13=31 Sunday July 16th, 2006 7:31:57 PM
"Thanks Tishe', but I'm good for now," answers the gnome. "Never ran out of magic yet," she answers, pointing to her embroidered boots.
Nodding as Gilan speaks, she tries to catch Trellus' eye. If the cleric of Domi gives the okay, the rogue will scout ahead and check out the entrance for the group.
The rogue is nearly invisible (Hide=40) in the grasses, and only the sharpest of ears will pick out her silent padding (Move Silently=24). He keeps her ears (Listen=25) and eyes (Spot=23) open to any sounds. The closer the rogue get to the entrance, the more her vigilence turns to searching out any warning devices or traps (Search/Detect Traps=31)
Jake Monday July 17th, 2006 1:23:15 AM
The thin half-elf grins as the others approach and points over to the rapke. "Hey, look...they're tame. And they don't seem as bad as the Barons..." He is generally quiet as they walk on out and through the grass, though he throws smiles and looks both of the gals ways. AT least leaving the city leaves only one to focus his attention on. And when she finally drops them off, he nods and waves to her. "Next time, you'll have to show me how to ride one of them... we'll all swap some glass grass with yer town, and tell ya about the time we flew on dragons!" Jake turns his attention to the others. Taking up their cues, he draws his sword and shield. He checks his gear out and feels pretty good. "Okay, let's get ready to rock them... If they're like the others, they'll have plenty of pits and stuff..."
Posting Report (ADM MikeK) Monday July 17th, 2006 4:27:30 PM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of July 10-14
Name MTWTF
DM JimW OXXXX
Trellus OXXXX
Tishe OXXXX
Jake OXXXX
Gilan OXXXX
Grymash OOXXO
Mac OXOOX
Flea OXXXX
Ulgren (walkabout)
[X = post, O = no post]
ADM MikeK Note: Ulgren is on walkabout pending computer issues.
The Entrance. (DM Jim) Monday July 17th, 2006 10:37:40 PM
Rayla turns in her saddle to look at Trellus and shrugs her shoulders. "They seem to have sentries at times but at others the entrance is not guarded." Turning her head to Tishe' she thinks for a few minutes and then speaks. "There should be four adult hunters and six hunters-in-training that are lost in that cave...that and about twenty villagers." Her eyes take on a haunted look as she speaks the next bit, not really liking the idea. "Though they were taken at least a week ago and most likely will not be there if the stories are true." She then moves off into the grass and is soon lost from view.
As the group prepares themselves for what is to come...the decision is made by Flea to scout a little bit ahead. She wants to check out the entrance to the colony and see if it is guarded. Moving along through the grass as quiet as the shadows, she comes to the top of the hill. She has gone to her belly and is crawling though as the last five feet to the slope is cleared of grass.
Looking down the slope she can see one ant much like the one that lays back in IronHome. Flanking it is a pair of ants that stand at least as tall as Mac. They look like the ants they faced near the Scab but larger and armed for trouble. The entrance is some hundred and fifty yards from her hiding spot at the top of the slope and the grade will not be one you would want to take at a run. The entrance itself is in a bowl really and no matter what you will have to charge this entrance.
The rest of the group waits for Flea to return and worries about her all the time. They are also thinking of Ulgren who stayed behind in IronHome. You remember that Jalian asked him to help out with a few divinations and maybe some protections for the village as well.
Flea(Spot 16)Highlight to display spoiler: {You notice that both of the taur type ants have at least six javelins at their sides. They also carry a large wicked looking spear as well. You can see nothing else of note on them at this distance.}
Flea d20+9=24 Monday July 17th, 2006 11:22:21 PM
Spot=24
Flea returns to the pack, employing the same sneaky tactics on her return in order to avoid detection. She tells her companions about everything she saw including the two taur type ants guarding the entrance with at least six javelins at their sides and a large wicked looking spear as well. Plus, the third ant that is there as well.
Mac Tuesday July 18th, 2006 3:34:53 AM
Listening to Flea intently, Mac nods and waits for his chance to join in. "That doesn't sound like the full strand - prob'bly some number nearby, inside awaitin' the call... we need quick an' quiet here.
Trellus Tuesday July 18th, 2006 9:52:27 AM
"OK Dudes, inventory time. We gotta get down there and take them out really fast. Unless Tishe or Gilan got a Silence spell, I'm not sure we can do it quiet. We do it fast enough, it might not matter.
I got one invisibility potion, 3 fly potions, and an Air Walk spell.
Whaddya you dudes got?"
Tishe' (AC21, HP 53/53) and Stripes (AC20, HP 31/31) Tuesday July 18th, 2006 1:39:36 PM
The brown-haired woman shakes her head, "I don't have any useful potions or scrolls for this, but the entrance is within my range to weave a Web spell. That will stop them from getting reinforcements or running for help!"
Druid Spells 0- Know Direction, Detect Magicx2, Mending 1- Longstrider, Faerie Fire, Speak w Animals 2- Fog Cloud, Summon Swarm
Arcane Spells White -- Acid Splash, Read Magic, Lightx2, Prestidigitation Red -- Grease, Summon I, Shieldx2, Mage Armor Orange -- Glitterdust, See Invisibility, Webx2 Yellow -- Summon III, Dispel Magicx2
Gilan and Ciaran Tuesday July 18th, 2006 2:22:38 PM
Gilan is also listening to the report from Flea and shakes his head. "I did not think to take any spells of that nature...most of mine are combat oriented or healing related." It does not look like the rest have much in the way of help either...so they will have to wing it as normal. "I can increase movement speed for two people but some of my others should wait till we are inside." He lays a hand upon Ciaran and calls upon the powers of Mother to aid his brother in the coming battle.
Ciaran takes this all in stride as he feels the tingle of magic. His brother's magic always feels so primal, touched by the Mother of all.
Jake Tuesday July 18th, 2006 3:01:14 PM
Jake shrugs. "Ah suppose magic is more clever, but ah'm prone to rushin' in fast without it. Besides, Ulgren ain't here, he's the real mage ain't he? Still... hey, we should buff up a little before we go in. Especially on Gry... He's always hearing the howls of Gargul." Jake grins and lightheartedly punches his half-orc bud on the shoulder. "Don't run on in this time, Gry... stay with us."
Flea (2nd illegal post) Wednesday July 19th, 2006 12:28:04 AM
I got 2 potions invisibility an' a spider climb.
Plan of Attack. (DM Jim) Wednesday July 19th, 2006 1:47:10 AM
The group discusses the plans that maybe useable to gain access to the caves behind the ants that guard it. Buffing is spoken of as well so that the group can cut through the monster that much faster. At least it appears that there will be a little time to think this over.
Trellus Wednesday July 19th, 2006 8:18:11 AM
The cleric grins at Flea. "Shady!"
And then lays out his thoughts. "Ok, Jake, Gry, and Mac fly invisible down there with Gilan, who does that bird pick.
We'll give you a bit of a head start and then the rest of us will start moving down the hill. Once they focus on us, you dudes rip 'em. Mac take one, Gry take one, Gil flame the little one, and Jake clean up."
He looks up.
"Whaddya think?"
Tishe' (AC21, HP 53/53) and Stripes (AC20, HP 31/31) Wednesday July 19th, 2006 12:48:35 PM
"Sounds shady to me!" agrees Tishe'. Without any prep spells to cast, she will wait for the others to go invisible. On Trellus' word of 'go', the bruisers will invisibly fly down to the side of the Oglians, and on a count of 30 (i.e. five rounds) she will move over the lip to expose herself to sight and plans to cast a Web right in the tunnel entrance.
Stripes stays quiet and behind his human, guarding her back.
Druid Spells 0- Know Direction, Detect Magicx2, Mending 1- Longstrider, Faerie Fire, Speak w Animals 2- Fog Cloud, Summon Swarm
Arcane Spells White -- Acid Splash, Read Magic, Lightx2, Prestidigitation Red -- Grease, Summon I, Shieldx2, Mage Armor Orange -- Glitterdust, See Invisibility, Webx2 Yellow -- Summon III, Dispel Magicx2
Mac Wednesday July 19th, 2006 5:01:16 PM
"Shady, Trellus." Mac awaits the spells.
Grymash (ac24, evil26. hp104. prot. from evil) d20-2=13 Wednesday July 19th, 2006 7:39:59 PM
Grymash takes the potion from Trellus. He mutters in a deep low voice, "hmmm ... no be lookin' at Gry juice!"
The barbarian cleric also remembers the ants from the Scar. How they tried to take control of his mind, and how Gargul protected him (Int 13, to remember).
Again in the lowest of tones, "dudes ... gry remembers how da ant people try to get into gry noggin. gargul protection magik messed up da ant magik. gry think weez make da protection magik, as much as pack can!" Grymash then mutters a few words of power and he touches himself. His body becomes enveloped in a faint glow and then disapears. "Yeah, shady ... like dat!"
Gilan nods to Trell as he looks to the others. "So we will make a sneak attack upon them." The grin upon his face tells you that he is more than ready to start the little party. Looking to Ciaran he points to Tishe' as he takes the large wolf's head. "You stay by Tishe' and protect her." He knows that Tishe' can look after his wolf and communicate with him if needed.
His shape ripples and distorts as he slowly slips into the form of a large hawk. Standing on the grounds of the Plains he makes no noise as he hops from foot to foot. He is as ready as he will ever be.
Flea Thursday July 20th, 2006 12:07:24 AM
The gnome more than willingly holds out the two vials of Invisibility for Jake and Mac to take. "Been holding on to these a long time, an' haven't really needed them myself."
When her packmates have taken the potions off her hands, she draws her to wands from her belt.
Silent and Deadly. (DM Jim) Thursday July 20th, 2006 1:15:02 AM
The pack has finally gotten themselves ready to start the assault upon the ants at the entrance. As Mac and Gry float down invisible they move into position and wait for the fun to begin.
A hawk flies out and over the bow and the ants look up, the two pointing at it but indicating nothing else. Though it must seem strange to them they make no other moves as they continue thier vigilance.
The time is nearly there to start the assault. All that is needed is for the rest of the group to top the slope and start their way down.
Hit Points and Armor Classes will need to start appearing, thanks.
Jake (AC 28, hp 59/59, invisible, flying) Thursday July 20th, 2006 9:03:08 AM
Jake gulps down the potion, and floats nearby Gry... He makes sure to go just alittle slower than the two invisible warriors might go, just so that they can trim the grass hard, and he can just follow after sweeping it up. He eyes the ant creatures as he gets closer, not liking them one bit. They look too...intelligent is the word he wants to use, but it's not really. Too much like bugs! Never did much care for bugs, other than as a meal.
Mac (AC:22, HP:90/90) Thursday July 20th, 2006 9:46:13 AM
"Thanks Flea!" Mac replies as he receives and drinks from the vial. "Do your wurst!" he says as he fades from view.
Trellus (ac 22, hp 79/79, Mgc Vstmnt, Neut Pois, Owl Wisdom) Thursday July 20th, 2006 10:37:23 AM
Trellus grins back at Gilan. "Truly. Time for us to get the jump for a change."
To Grymash, he replies, "We don't think these ant dudes got that pick. But better safe than sorry, so drink up."
The cleric waits patiently for Grymash, Mac, Jake, and Gilan to go through their preparations, and quite literally disappear. During the short interval, he pulls out his Metamagic Rod for one last use this day, and casts a spell to enhance his spellcasting power on himself. [Cast Owls Wisdom -- extended]
At the count of 30, the blond man stands up with a curt "Lets weave", and starts moving down the hill as quickly as he can. [Move 60'] As he heads for the ants, he calls over to Tishe. "Tishe, remember - only you can heal Mac or Gry with this thing." The blond man taps his chest meaningfully.
He turns his attention on the ants. OK Dudes. Let's see what you got
-------------------
Spells in Effect: Owls Wisdom -- 20 min Neutralize Poison - 69 mins Magic Vestment (+2) - Shield Magic Vestment (+2) - Armor
Tishe' (AC21, HP 53/53) and Stripes (AC20, HP 31/31) Thursday July 20th, 2006 2:03:48 PM
The brown-headed mage nods as her packmates fade out one by one. "Illusions I can't weave, so it's shady we have some potions!" she pronouces in a satisfactory manner.
Tishe' keeps her own count and is pleased when she is down to three when Trellus says its time to go. Touching her Dragon Tear, she nods, knowing that she will also feel thier relative health through the gem as well.
And then... it's over the top! Skidding down the slope for 30 feet, Tishe' puts on the brakes and weaves a quick pattern with her hands. A hundred and fifty feet away, sticky strands of a gigantic Web block the entrance of the Oglian tunnel. "There is no escape that way, ant-taurs!"
Stripes easily keeps his four feet on the steep slope, keeping pace with his human. Hackles rise and a growl verberates from his throat.
Druid Spells 0- Know Direction, Detect Magicx2, Mending 1- Longstrider, Faerie Fire, Speak w Animals 2- Fog Cloud, Summon Swarm
Arcane Spells White -- Acid Splash, Read Magic, Lightx2, Prestidigitation Red -- Grease, Summon I, Shieldx2, *Mage Armor Orange -- Glitterdust, See Invisibility, *Webx2 Yellow -- Summon III, Dispel Magicx2
Gilan [HP: 97/97 - AC: 20] and Ciaran [HP: 80/80 - AC: 24] 9d6(6+2+2+4+4+6+2+5+3)=34 Thursday July 20th, 2006 5:53:04 PM
Gilan cannot help but call out what would be a laugh in his hawk form as the webs go up. Though he is visible to the enemy he is not worried too much. Flattening his wings he falls into a dive as he calls upon the powers of Mother Wold. Wings flip out to brake his fall and to punctuate the end of his spell. "Kkkrrrreeeeeeeeee!" Within a few seconds of his battle cry a pillar of flame dances down upon the middle worker ant.
Ciaran slides along the slope after both Stripes and Tishe'. He pulls up to flank on her other side as she stops to use her spell. His own eyes searching the area for the best path to the enemy.
Grymash (ac24, evil26. hp104. prot. from evil2) d20+15=35 d20+15=25 d20+15=19 d20+10=11 d20+10=30 d20+10=25 d8+8=12 d8+8=10 d8+8=15 d8+4=8 d8+4=10 d8+4=12 d8+4=8 Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:25:23 PM
Grymash waits unpatiently for the first sign from the others to start his attack. His grip on his double axe tightens.
WHEN/IF the antmen first begin to react to Gry's invading packmates, he will strike one of the larger ones with a flurry of blows with a speed that surprises even himself.
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