DM Bob & Carla Sunday July 9th, 2006 11:00:53 PM
The time on the grassy flatland with the vigorous island breezes is a welcomed respite before charging into the jungle. Orienting themselves on Brahmah's companion, the taurs enter the jungle. Once past the initial scrubby low brush at the edge of the forested area, the going isn't so hard. The tall canopy above creates a dappled light under which mosses and ferns grow. Here and there, a vine entwines a trunk, and exotic flowers bloom from the crooks of aged trees.
The Chosen get a good fix on the direction set by the golden eagle, and occasionally one of the party catches a glimpse of the great bird when there is a break in the canopy of leaves above. It is warm in the jungle, and the provisioned water is appreciated by all.
After what seems like many hours the nature of the jungle changes: the ground is more level, the trees spaced out evenly, along with groupings of bushes and flowering shrubs. Knowledge Nature vs DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { to notice though most of the trees and bushes are native, they seem planted purposefully} (Spot vs DC 10 to Highlight to display spoiler: { see that there are little plaques set into the ground with words scribed on them. Those who understand common can make out that the plaques seem to identify the family, genus and species of the specimens.)} A lawn of neatly clipped grass grows where the spaced out trees permit more sunlight and the gentle curve of a fine gravel trail winds through the plantings.
Gecktar d20+2=9 d20+3=15 Monday July 10th, 2006 3:17:10 AM
Gecktar is happily surprised that the path isn't too hard to go through. He notice at a moment some tiny plaques on the ground that indicates the name of the species...
"Look, I think we are in the private garden of someone ..." he says showing the plaques.
Winterglade d20+4=18 Monday July 10th, 2006 4:49:38 AM
[Spot 18]
"Why look at that. This is odd."
"This reminds me of an old story that's being told by one of our Elders. Supposedly he used to travel a lot. He and his companions entered such a garden once, ate the fruits of Malus Domestica, rested under the shade of Castanea Creata, and then met Canis Lupus Hibernalis."
Flat -top d20+6=26 Monday July 10th, 2006 9:04:08 AM
Flat-top notices the plack too. "Oh! Here's another ovetr here?" But the answer of Winterglade is too much for flat-top mind! "What are you talking about? Is it a fruit? A monster? or a grave? Should I get ready to Fight it?" Flat-top has a questerning look on his face??
Flat-top Knows about the sea and sailing, But nothing about Bushes and Trees! Now Flat-top knows the He is out of his elerment.
Brahmah Monday July 10th, 2006 12:11:18 PM
Brahmah seems unconcerned with the bushes and plants. He's concerned about getting the Chosen home.
He assumes the people of this place are home, so he unceremoniously trounces the plants that get in his diliberately straight path on the way to the house. Hedge, daisy, rose, none are safe as the minotaur sets to task. He will ignore the chastizing words of the Chosen as the plants are trampled.
"We should suggest a stone path through this section, its quite nice." He continues pounding hoof to the front door.
He mutters something about '...unnatural control of nature...' and '...gardens a travesty!'
Zeoll d20+11=18 d20+9=18 Monday July 10th, 2006 4:47:59 PM
[OOC: Made both checks]
Zeoll feels nervous, but since the party has no rogue to do scouting, he guesses it is safer to keep together.
He suggests to his friends that they are almost there. Wherever there is.
He watches Brahmah, but sensing that a mood is on the Taur, says nothing.
Rock d20+5=25 d20-2=15 Monday July 10th, 2006 5:06:41 PM
(Knowledge Nature= 25, Spot=15)
With the shipwreck behind him, Rock welcomes the indiccative comforts of civilization. Smiling on the inside, he keeps pace with the grumbling Brahmah, enlarge wand pointed at the commander and at the ready.
DM Bob & Carla Monday July 10th, 2006 11:46:20 PM
The Chosen of Domi exit the jungle into what Gecktar suggests is some sort of private garden or arboretum. Eschewing the winding gravel path, Brahmah takes what he believes is the most direct route. The neatly trimmed lawn actually slopes up, with a gently increasing grade. Making some comment about apples and chestnut trees, Winterglade follows after the captain, as does Flat-Top, wondering if he should be looking for food or the enemy, two of his favorite topics. A nervous Zeoll trails behind wishing the party had a scout to send ahead, while Rock humorously anticipates the reception the captain, and the party might receive.
Emerging from the lower part of the garden, the party is greeted by an expanse of formal lawn sloping towards a great mansion of a house. Between the party and the building is a series of terraces, like so many steps, leading up through elegant gardens. The route directly in front of the party is blocked by a long rectangular water feature, but a walk leads around it with a set of steps on either side that continue the route up towards the next terrace.
Gecktar Tuesday July 11th, 2006 4:27:07 AM "Ooh ! When I said civilization I was not too far from the truth. This mansion is beautiful"
He continues to follow his captain
Flat -top Tuesday July 11th, 2006 6:03:45 AM
Follow behind the others, Keeping an eye out for trouble, But his hearing is fine enough because he heard the Captain say 'Apples' and 'chestnuts'. When he arrives at the Fountain, Flat-top will wash his face and take a long drink of water "Ahh! That is Good!"
Winterglade Tuesday July 11th, 2006 6:18:08 AM
Winterglade watches with sadness as the tranquil harmony of the arboretum gets rearranged by the Captain of the Chosen. The centaur follows behind with the rest of the party.
"Now this is a sure way of making a lasting first impression."
"Captain! Slow down a bit, please! We look like a band of marauders out to sack the place!"
Toros Tuesday July 11th, 2006 12:07:45 PM
The familiar, "common" feeling of civilization after that uncommon experience of stranded on an island arouses mixed emotions and ideas for Toros. However Glades's fair warning awakens him and the taur casts a couple of prestidigation cantrips to make the outfit of Chosen look more clean and neat. The first impressions are always important!!!
Brahmah Tuesday July 11th, 2006 1:19:56 PM
The Captain stops briefly at the fountain for a drink of fresh water and then continues up the steps which skirt it.
"Maruaders? No friend Glade. Crusaders. Domi's Crusaders." He continues on through the garden, rearranging it in the contemperary style of Taur Feng Shui.
Zeoll Tuesday July 11th, 2006 11:35:49 PM
Zeoll wonders at Brahmah's destructivess. This seems a side of the Taur's personality that Zeoll has not seen before.
He tries to mitigate the damage. "Frriends, when we meet the occupants of this place, how about letting me do the initial talking?"
The liontaur walks up the steps with the group.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday July 11th, 2006 11:36:58 PM
The leader of The Chosen climbs to the head of the stairs to find yet another expanse of lawn and an assortment of formal gardens. The lawn is exquisitely manicured, and each of the formal beds neatly edged to maximize the contrast.
At the far end of the lawn a massive plantation house rises three stories, its smooth cream coloured stone catches the light of the sun and seems to change colour as a cloud passes by and temporarily impedes the sun's rays.
Two humanoids in very formal attire scurry towards them. They wear long woolen coats and stiff white collars that match their white gloves. They walk hurridly rather than running and the closest seems to be calling out to them. Listen vs DC 13 to hear Highlight to display spoiler: {"Careful please! No, no, not through the Doctor's rhododendrums!}
Gecktar d20+3=14 Wednesday July 12th, 2006 3:38:50 AM
At the call of the humanoid coming to them Gecktar stops walking and looks around him. Are these exquisite flowers rhododendrums ?
"Maybe we should stop here and wait for these servants to annonce us ?"
Winterglade d20+4=23 Wednesday July 12th, 2006 7:16:31 AM
[Listen 23]
"Captain, we better stop... Anybody who sees seven Taurs armed to the teeth coming at them and does not show any signs of apprehension probably has something up his sleeve and needs handling with care."
"Be my guest, fuzball. These look like servants, but Winterglade bets we will meet the master of the place soon enough."
Flat-top d20+5=19 Wednesday July 12th, 2006 10:48:32 AM
Flat-top Comes to a full stop, ready for any thing. He Hears the Captain say something like "Rodendroom? Redendrinn? Not that's not it, Rosiedeem Flowers, no that's not it either"
Wen the stiff colar black cloaks, get to him. he then lern the true name of the Flowers "Oh! Rhododendrums! All right How do I get out of theit beds and not hurt them?" Flat-top look at then strait in to their eyes.
Brahmah Wednesday July 12th, 2006 12:34:28 PM
"Fact is, we're NOT here for the tour! We simply want to know where 'here' is and how far from home have we been dropped by the storm." He shouts.
He looks up at the foofy dressed folks and smirks. "Well it seems we're nowhere near the Taur Isles. They don't dress like that."
Zeoll d20+3=17 Wednesday July 12th, 2006 3:35:42 PM
[Listen 17]
Zeoll waits to hear what else the newcomers have to say. He tries to get an idea if this place resembles the place of his dream.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday July 12th, 2006 10:52:15 PM
The taurs are stopped short in their tracks by the two approaching doormen. As they near you can clearly see they are a pair of half-orcs stuffed into formal suits. They quickly and efficiently extricate the taurs from the flowers and shrubs.
"Where is here?" the first of the two doormen replies. "'Here' is the gardens and plantation of Doctor Mauroth but since I do not know where you come from, I cannot answer the second part of your question."
The second of the two ushers the remaining taurs to the top of the steps. "Must be lost" he shakes his head in obvious consternation. "The Doctor will know what to do. Please follow us, and be careful not to step on any of the Doctor's specimens." He carefully guides Flat-top around a small patch of white flowers that spring up on stalks from the center of a basal cluster of leaves.
Zeoll garners little from the polite responses of the doormen, but the manor appears to be the same as the one in his dreams, only grander.
Toros Wednesday July 12th, 2006 11:15:34 PM
Toros watches this first encounter with the other species with surprise, looking at the sharp contract between the two groups.
"If Kanchana would be here she would tell what all these flowers are" he wonders the value of all these plants and flowers...
Winterglade Thursday July 13th, 2006 3:28:02 AM
Winterglade is happy to trot along. With the mansion being so luxurious one can reasonably expect frequent visits by supply ships. The Chosen could be out of here in a matter of a week or two.
Having been put somewhat at ease, he starts to wonder about the owner of this very unusual place.
"A plantation, yes? Winterglade wonders what do you cultivate here, my good people?"
Zeoll d20+19=32 Thursday July 13th, 2006 12:44:16 PM
The liontuar politely questions the half-orc retainers. "Could you tell us morre about ourr host, Doctorr Maurroth? What kind of a doctorr is he? Is he a naturralist? a garrdenerr? How kindly does he rreceive guests?"
Diplomacy check 32
Brahmah Thursday July 13th, 2006 1:31:56 PM
The minotaur look at the men and is curious about their phrasing.
"Calling the flowers 'specimens' makes me think that he thinks EVERYTHING is a specimen." Brahmah distrusts humans.
Rock Thursday July 13th, 2006 2:09:45 PM
Still following the commander closely, Rock nods understandingly as he speaks.
"That is often the way of those who study too much. I know that, if I saw a dwarf in the care of a minotaur, I would definately think so. It is interesting that you think so highly of plants Brahmah. I should like to discuss that further at a later time."
The large minotaur turns his head toward Zeoll and speaks in a conversational tone, in tauric "Perhaps charm will get us through this, but I'm willing to bet that this 'Doctor' is going to be more open to intellect than savvy. Who among we Chosen knows the most about plants and whatnot?"
Flat -top Thursday July 13th, 2006 2:23:28 PM
Flat-top thinks he knows the answer, "Druids!" he smiles as if he has given Rock a great answer. "But a better question is What kind of 'specemen' are these stuff cloak with a white collar?".
Flat-top scratches his head?
Gecktar Thursday July 13th, 2006 5:12:02 PM
Gecktar politely follows the two gardeners avoid to smash any specimen he could see.
DM Bob & Carla Thursday July 13th, 2006 11:00:35 PM
The two doormen carefully escort The Chosen across the large expanse of lawn and up the steps to the manor door.
"We grow many things on the plantation sirs", the first answers politely. "The soils here are very fertile, but thin. The main crops are nuts and fruits from the trees, but we have also cultivated strains of rye and wheat on the upper steppe. There are also plentiful wild animals and of course the sea also provides us with a great bounty. We are almost completely self sufficient."
The second of the two doormen pays extra attention to the centaurs, perhaps worried about what their hooves might do to the delicate plants. "Dr Mauroth takes great delight in entertaining guests" he replies to Zeoll. "The Doctor is a man of many talents including agriculture and agronomy. He studies nature, medicine, and is somewhat of a herbalist. You will surely meet him later this evening when he returns."
The two doormen stop at the main entrance where they are greeted by a very large man dressed every bit as formally as the two doormen. "Eli, Joseph. Who are these people and where have they come from?" Even as he questions the doormen he motions The Chosen into the foyer and begins seeing to their needs. "Tsk. Tsk. You look as if you've had quite a journey, still nothing that a good nights sleep and a good meal won't put right." He begins helping Zeoll off with his pack.
Winterglade Friday July 14th, 2006 4:14:11 AM
Winterglade suddenly becomes quite aware that, after several days of camping in harsh conditions, he and his equipment doesn't exactly have what one would describe as a rosy smell.
"Yes, yes." - he says, sliding off his saddlebags. "Winterglade wonders, would it be possible to refresh himself? He still has some salt in his mane left over from the sea journey."
Flat -top Friday July 14th, 2006 8:52:35 AM
Flat-top look toward his friend Winterglade, "Yes! I think you could do with a good bath!" Then he smells his armor and looks back at his rump, "Gee! Look at this? You cannot tell where my whits spots are every thing on my body is a dirty black dust!"
Flat-top will follow behind The magic users.
Brahmah Friday July 14th, 2006 11:03:41 AM
Brahmah looks at the Doctor. "Shipwreck." He says simply.
Rock Friday July 14th, 2006 4:28:00 PM
His voice much higher and accented than when speaking his native toungues, Rock adds, in common "Two shipwrecks, actually. Theirs and mine. Also... have you seen another liontaur on the island?" He points at Zeoll "Like this fellow here?"
Zeoll d20+9=16 Friday July 14th, 2006 6:12:48 PM
Zeoll does not think that this is the doctor, but he addresses him as such so as to judge his reaction.
"Hello, good Doctorr! We arre indeed castaways, as my laconic frriend has so succinctly noted. We are sorrry to intrrude on yourr hospitality."
Sense motive check 16 to guess his response.
Brahmah Saturday July 15th, 2006 10:34:24 AM
Then he adds as a second thought, "We're the Chosen of Domi. Pleasure."
Gecktar Monday July 17th, 2006 2:53:33 AM
Gecktar smile at the doctor and nods at him as a sign of salutation.
Posting Report For Monday July 17th, 2006 3:07:46 AM
Game 7 for the week of July 10-14
Adm; Jerry you'll notice that all my reports were type just like your template, But MY Computer will omit the extra spaces. Sorry! but it look good when I made the reports!
Toros Monday July 17th, 2006 3:10:07 AM
It is a bit hard for Toros to get accustomed to such formality after all those troubles in the sea and island, and their quick, sharp contrast with such a civilized city. He keeps quiet and maintains a low profile as much as a big wemic can do, following the doctor, doormen and the Chosen.
Flat -top d20+6=23 Monday July 17th, 2006 8:08:51 AM
As Flat-top (whos is now wash and clean) Follows the Chosen where ever they are being lead, He mumbles 'It would serve them right, if I would let a few Road Apples go!'
But as he follows the others, he looks around.
Looking 23
Brahmah Monday July 17th, 2006 6:45:20 PM
Just waits. His hand is never too far from his hilts.
DM Bob & Carla Monday July 17th, 2006 10:01:07 PM
With an inclination of his head in Zeoll's direction, the man responds "you are mistaken. I am Stevens, in service to Dr Mauroth these many years." The wemic gathers that the man is all manners and decorum. "Shipwrecked you say?" he queries, after Rock volunteers the fact "and you survived the reefs?" Amazing! The Doctor will be interested in learning of your feat!"
As he leads you down a wide marble floored hallway he continues, answering Winterglade's question, "there is a room for each of you, and the spa and baths are at the end of the guest wing." He motions to the door at the end of the hallway. "There is a therapeutic pool and one for swimming. Kobe, the attendant, can give you a massage if you so desire."
The man, of medium build and dressed in a formal dark suit and starched white collar, opens a series of doors across the hall from each other. In the middle of each room is a massive bed heaped with fluffy bedding. "Leave your dirty clothes and equipment at the foot of the bed. They will be cleaned and repaired and returned to you in the morning."
As 'Stevens' turns to leave he makes a last survey of the Chosen. "Dinner will be called at 7:00. The Doctor will have returned by then and can answer any of your questions. Formal attire, please. If you require anything don't hesitate to ring", he pulls once on a braided chord by one of the beds and a bell gently peels in a distant room. "I will inquire of the staff if any other survivors have been found, including your lost 'friend'."
With his last comment the man turns on his heel and leaves the taurs to their own devices. Flat-Top takes in the opulence of his surroundings and realizes that this is not really the place to deposit his 'road apples'. Brahmah has few words and Toros and Gektar are unusually quiet, perhaps uncomfortable in such unfamiliar surroundings.
Winterglade Tuesday July 18th, 2006 4:40:39 AM
The centaur welcomes the chance to clean and check on his equipment. He takes a bath, has his mane combed, and surrenders his travel cloak to the servants. He leaves his gear in his room, though he makes a point of requesting that the tending of his equipment be left to him alone. As for Windwalker's formal wear, there is no such animal; after some deliberation Winterglade decides that, in the evening, he will go with his armor covered by one of his newly made cloaks. Magic cloak never goes out of style, especially one that can keep you cool in such a hot envirnoment. After a moment of thought he slips his component pouch and wands in his pocket, and hangs his holy symbol on his chest. It is with some regret that he leaves his shield behind.
But, since the evening is still a bit away, Winterglade trots over to Flat-top's, puts his head inside the door and says: "Wanna come check if Kobe is male or female?"
Gecktar Tuesday July 18th, 2006 6:27:25 AM
Hearing abou cleaning and massage Gecktar face is illuminated by a smile. He takes his time to bath himself and then inquires of the location of the attendant to get a massage. On the evening, clean and refreshed he will not carry any weapon except a dagger, and wear the only vestment he has, with recently cleaned and polished holy symbol of Domi.
He thinks to himself that having one or more change dresses would be a good idea...
Flat-top Tuesday July 18th, 2006 6:40:49 AM
Flat-top finally find a place where he can deposit his road apples, "Hheew! I don't think that I could hold on to those road apples any longer." He taked off his chainmail shirt and put it on the foot of the bed with his other weapons. He wonders what to wear for formal dress, "Ahh! My Cloak of Comfort that Koulac once gave me. I'll wear that!" Flat-top was given a bath, Hair cut, his nails and hooves polish. He felth quite out of place, but when Winterglade ask him come with him to check out Kobe, all he heard was the word Female!! "Oh! Yes! I'm right behind you!"
Brahmah Tuesday July 18th, 2006 3:40:48 PM
Brahmah shines, polishes and cleans nothing of his. He is more than sure this is some sort of ruse and regardless of the reassuring words of the humans, this taur will not partake of the luxaries of this place. He has a bad feeling and its obvious to anyone, though, Rock isn't yet familiar with the leader's ways.
When the group is left alone, the Captain speaks. "If it looks too good to be true, it likely is. I'll be in my 'room'. Say nothing more than you need to to anyone or anything here. This place is far to remote and silent to be a paradise."
Zeoll Tuesday July 18th, 2006 4:35:52 PM
Zeoll agrees with Brahmah. "These arre Taurr waterrs, between Liontaur Isle and the other Taur Isles, so why arre humans herre," he asks softly in Taurric. "But we give up an advantage by being surrly and acting suspicious. Better to act curious and without guile. Brrahmah, the otherrs of us arre already playing the naif. Join in! But be rready to fight."
Zeoll wears his best shirt, but also all his gear. His feathers and beads are formal as well.
He keeps his eyes open and tries to get a feel for the servants' emotions.
Rock Tuesday July 18th, 2006 5:47:58 PM
Rock takes his time, bathing and combing out most of his fur, but making sure that everything dries looking natural. He shines his horns and hooves and puts on his nicest porpoise skin kilt... his only kilt. He leaves his spear and backpack behind but takes his color spray wand with him.
Once his grooming is done, he seeks out Stevens to inquire about a library.
"Surely, with all of this, and being a doctor, your lord must surely have quite a collection of books. As a scholar myself, I would be most interested in looking through them."
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday July 18th, 2006 11:48:19 PM
Such opulent formality in the middle of nowhere arouses suspicion in some. The captain of the Chosen utters a terse warning to his companions, and then eschewing the comforts offered, confines himself to his room. Equally suspicious, Zeoll suggests going with the flow, hoping innocent curiosity might reveal the true nature of their host.
Winterglade, Flat-Top, Gecktar, and Rock happily take advantage of the spa. It is a large, sunny room with mosaic murals on three walls, with the opposite wall essentially a wall of windowed doors open to the late afternoon island breezes. The gentle sound of a tinkling wind chime through an open door is the only noise other than the gurgling of the therapeutic pool. As the bathers lounge around and soak the mural is revealed as a classical tableau honoring the physical prowess of the various races of the Wold as they partake in various forms of athletic achievement. Elves with skins of black, and blue, tan, and silvery white appear to run past two dwarves locked in a wrestling match. Two Halflings juggle flaming torches, while a gnome walks across a rope suspended high in the air. A half orc balances on one foot, leaning backwards as he prepares to hurl a javelin. As the mural wraps around the next wall the image of a trio of wemics is revealed. They are in full sprint after some sort of dog-like creature. Higher up the wall, a centaur gallops across a windblown field, while lower down two bleeding minotaur are locked in combat, their fierce determination artistically rendered by the many tiny bits of stone. As the images of physical prowess continue around the walls, there are other creatures that are unfamiliar to the taurs, or that they have seen, but only in their dreams...or nightmares.
Much to Flat-Top's chagrin, Kobe turns out to be a large half-orc dressed in loose white clothing that reveals his muscular arms. The servant proves his worth as he gives a thorough brushing or massage to those who request his services. The half-orc seems to take particular pleasure in working on the minotaur, and works Rock over until his muscles are smooth and relaxed. For the most part, the half-orc's answers are monosyllables; however he does confirm Rock's speculation that the house contains a library. The minotaur learns it is in the wing opposite to the guest wing, and near doctor Mauroth's own personal chambers.
Preparations for dinner complete, the refreshed party speculate about their host and his motives. There is an hour or so yet before the bell will be rung for dinner.
Toros Wednesday July 19th, 2006 5:42:08 AM
Nomatter how it has sounded attractice, Toros skips the spa and prefers to have a nap before the dinner time. However, his sleep is not so comfortable, since his mind and body is full of tensions, producing too much (REBBM) Rapid Eye, Body, and Brain Movement.
Flat-top Wednesday July 19th, 2006 7:24:38 AM
Flat-top enters to meet Kobe, in an instant Flat-top apon seeing the great Kobe, He distrustes him. Flat-top does not know why, mabe because he has alway hated Orcs.
This Kobe is half orc, but this center will shake hands "How do you do? I'm called Flat-top, it is a pleasure to meet you." He step aside to let somebody else greet the half-orc.
Winterglade Wednesday July 19th, 2006 9:08:36 AM
"True, true, this is a very unusual place to set up a mansion. Winterglade is all for approaching the life with a hefty dose of paranoia, but sometimes a retired scholar living alone on a remote island is just a retired scholar living alone on a remote island. Winterglade won't bring his shield to the dinner, no, he will take the risks this time."
The centaur tries to enjoy the luxuries, but soon finds himself restless. Not long after he can be seen standing in the garden baking in the sun. His Windwalker nature has taken over and shooed him away from under a roof.
Brahmah Wednesday July 19th, 2006 2:30:21 PM
Brahmah considers Zeoll's words with care. And as most good leaders, the minotaur takes the word of his advisor.
Brahmah cleans up to the best of his ability, avoiding perfumes and bubblebath, preferring to use clean water. He dresses, hiding his kukri in plain sight, tucked into his belt. Sometimes he wishes he was a brawler and not a swordsman.
He then waits fo the others to get ready.
Zeoll Wednesday July 19th, 2006 7:49:18 PM
The druid/bard, like Winterglade, feels a little uncomfortable with a roof over his head. But he is savvy enough in the ways of the world to recognize that this Doctor is a powerful individual. He has many servants, opulent dwellings, in a very remote location. That suggests that he teleports where he wants to go. But he seems a naturalist too. Zeoll wonders if he is a druid, and wonders if that will work to his advantage.
To settle his nerves, the liontaur meditates and prays for courage. At the appointed time, he is ready for dinner.
DM Bob and Carla Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:35:00 PM
The Taurs choose to rest and nap in the hour before dinner. Winteglade alone ventures beyond the guest wing, and not too far.
As the appointed dinner time nears, the taurs are reminded of the fact by the rumbling in their bellies. Strange but appetizing aromas waft from the kitchen, and find their way into the guest wing.
Precisely at 7:00 the sound of a gong resonates throughout the manor. One of the staff pokes their head into the rooms and announces "Dinner will now be served"
The dining hall is magnificent. A long wooden table, polished to bring out the natural grain of the dark wood, is elaborately set with cutlery, bowls, plates, and glassware. Candles line the center of the table and are interspersed with small plates of nuts and berries. Sturdy wooden benches have been brought in to replace the fine wooden chairs that now line the walls of the room. At the head of the table stands a large, well muscled man with short cropped dark hair that is speckled with grey. His face is tanned and weathered from much time spent outdoors, and his strong jaw is enhanced by a well trimmed beard that runs down his jaw-line in a narrow strip.
"Good evening. I am Dr. Mauroth," he says by way of introduction. "The Chosen of Domi are welcome in my home."
Winterglade Thursday July 20th, 2006 3:35:08 AM
In accordance with his request, Winterglade leaves it to Zeoll to make the first impression, and for a moment seems content to glance at the man with certain degree of curiosity. When Doctor calls the group by its formal name the centaur feels a pang of suspicion, but soon recalls that Brahmah has already introduced the visitors by this name.
What an unusual place this is. I wonder how this man came by this property. I wonder what Vargas is doing right now - probably unceasingly questing for the sword, driving nearer and nearer to it with every hour, while we are stuck on this island. Oh well, I hope getting <unstuck> won't involve another boat.
Gecktar Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:13:48 AM
Refresh by the hard masage given by Kobe, Gecktar enters the dining room and bows slightly at the Doctor when he introduce himself.
As winterglade he waits for Zeoll to make the first impression
Flat-top Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:15:31 AM
When Dinner is anounce, Flat-top is not too far behind Winterglade's hooves. As he enters the dinning room, he is quit impress with the room. But the table with all that good food (nuts and burries) is hard to resiest, Hard as it is he keeps himself under control.
when the Famuse Dr.Mauroth enters the room and greets them, Flat-top instently dislikes him. I don't like him, to me there's something evil about him! He even look's evil and his voice sounds evil. I better watch myself."
Zeoll d20+20=28 Thursday July 20th, 2006 10:11:49 AM
Just before entering the hall, Zeoll says a small prayer for guidance (casts Guidance cantrip).
After the Doctor speaks, Zeoll steps forward and bows. As he does so, the beads in his mane click softly together. Standing, he places his hand on the hilt of the greatsword that is strapped to his back, without drawing it. Hand on hilt, he says, "By the courrage of Domi who blessed this holy sworrd, we, his Chosen Taurrs, thank you forr yourr hospitality and kindness to strrangerrs."
Zeoll's voice is polished and clear, despite his accent. His manner is open and friendly (Diplomacy Check 28 with the Guidance).
"Please let us intrroduce ourrselves to you. I am Zeoll, Student to Shaman Frith, Warrriorr to Prride Nonowla, and Son to Clan Aene of Liontaurr Isle. Having passed thrrough shipwrreck to arrrive herre, I thank you forr yourr welcome."
Then Zeoll motions each of the Chosen to introduce himself.
Brahmah Thursday July 20th, 2006 5:38:57 PM
Brahmah sits quietly until questions or converstaion are directed to him.
Toros Thursday July 20th, 2006 11:16:49 PM
Sitting at the end corner of the table, Toros cannot wait to taste the foods served. A good, big meal is remedy to all troubles or worries. Meanwhile the taur observes the Chosen's host, trying to get some clues about his personality or purposes...
Flat -top Friday July 21st, 2006 4:24:44 AM
When it was his turn to talk about himself, He's at a lost for words, "Err. . . I'm a center and and I was born on center island plains err err youngest of the heard, Hmmm! went into the navy and and I got chosen in the Royal Navy School, Then Then I was chosen by a dream by Domi, and Err Hmmm! I stayed with the Chosen ever since! Nice to meet you Sir!"
Flat-top knows that he made a fool of himself and want to run away to his room. But Protocall damand him to stay.
DM Bob & Carla Friday July 21st, 2006 7:45:05 AM
Initial introductions are stilted and awkward, but once over with, Dr. Mauroth signals for the first course. One of the two doormen from earlier in the day arrives carrying a large silver bowl full of soup. He fills the bowls in front of each of the taurs with the rich creamy liquid, brandishing the ladle with practiced ease, not a drop hits the fine linen tablecloth.
"Please!, please my friends, there is no reason to stand on ceremony" the Doctor calls out. "Dig in and enjoy your meal while it is still hot!." He himself immediately starts eating his own soup, only stopping to ask questions of the Chosen.
"Stevens tells me you were shipwrecked and survived the shoals. How is it that you survived? Please you must tell me about it."
"My staff also think you are adventurers and tell me that you are well armed and well armoured. Is this true, are you adventurer's? Will you tell me about your exploits? It must be very exciting and rewarding to travel to far flung lands ."
The Doctor is obviously quite interested in the Chosen's stories for he leans forward so as not to miss a word.
Once the soup is gone, a second course appears in front of the taurs and their host, an assortment of seafoods arrives including crabs, shrimp, smoked fish, and something that may just be eel.
Gecktar Friday July 21st, 2006 4:49:15 PM "Mmmm, Well adventurer is certainly not the word to use. We are Chosen and follow our instinct to fullfil the quest The Great Domi gave us. And sure we are fully armed and armored as the path we follow is not peaceful, but one filled with ambushes and tests. We fight dire enemies that use terror and strength to expenad their powers..."
Rock Friday July 21st, 2006 5:49:22 PM
Having eaten his soup in silence, the large minotaur smiles plainly. Grabbing the nearest plate of eels, Rock eats passionately and looks to the Doctor. Between bites, he speaks common in a high accented voice. "I am called Rock, third student of Master Gensh Reefsmasher of Minotaur Isle. I have studied many things over the years, friend Doctor, and admire your seeming dedication to the gathering of knowledge. I hear that you have a library here in the wing across from our chambers. I was hoping that I could take a look around it, particularly at any spell books you may have accidentally aquired."
"As far as adventuring, I would have to say Gektar is correct. Fate and the Gods have brought us together, not lust for excitement."
Brahmah d20+4=18 Friday July 21st, 2006 7:26:41 PM
"Hospitality for stangers is an uncommon thing to find now days Doctor." Says the minotaur, staring a hole in the Doctor. (Sense Motive 18)
Toros Friday July 21st, 2006 9:12:23 PM
"Words are our swords," thinks Toros without saying a word. He focuses on impressing his host with his eating skills, nothing much or less. Unfortunately he has only one mouth, which the taur uses in full capacity for eating and drinking at the moment. Delicious, interesting food..."Could this island be a nice place to live afterall!!"
Zeoll Friday July 21st, 2006 11:39:38 PM
Zeoll agrees that the Chosen are not common adventurers out for profit, but devoted warriors with a holy mission.
He offers to tell some stories of the Chosen after dinner. Right now his mouth is too full.
Winterglade Saturday July 22nd, 2006 3:33:17 AM
Winterglade, not being really hungry, nibbles at the dishes only enough not to offend the hospitality of the host. This leaves him the only person to entertain the Doctor with a tale.
"We have been travelling onboard of a small ship, the Sea Hag, that crashed into a shallow and sunk. A real Full Moon's Feast. That happened quite far from your island, sir. We managed to survive only by assembling a raft out of flotsam and debris. The crew perished, either by drowning or in the maws of sharks. We have been adrift for about two days, Winterglade thinks, until the currents cast us ashore on this island."
"Many have perished in these waters. Restless spirits of some of them assailed us as we came ashore. We have been wandering the wild for a day or so, until we came upon your mansion."
"It is very important that we reach our destination as quickly as possible. A lot depends on that, possibly even lives of some good people. Winterglade wonders if you could advise us how to best make way from here to one of the big islands?"
Flat -top Saturday July 22nd, 2006 7:26:49 AM
Flat-top is not mudh of a fleah eater, so when the sea food platter was pass around, he was served seeweed and other plants like bread, and flowers but very little Scrimps, crabs or fish.
He ooks to the servents smiles and tells them "Oh! that's enough of the sea food, you see we had to battle a few Sharks and that enough fish to last me quite a few days, but I'll take more salad if you don't mind??"
Rock Saturday July 22nd, 2006 1:16:30 PM
"Sharks are delicious."
Gecktar Saturday July 22nd, 2006 5:18:44 PM
(OOC : I will be unable to reach a computer until 07/29. So If someone could play Gecktar during this time. Thanks)
DM Bob & Carla Saturday July 22nd, 2006 10:19:46 PM
The soup and seafood consumed, the serving staff quickly and efficiently remove dirty plates and utensils and replace them with fresh plates. Several additional serving platters are brought forth, some with a veriety of mixed vegetables, others brim with potatoes and yams, and yet others contain cuts from a variety of meats.
Dr Mauroth listens to the answers given by each of the taurs. "I apologize" he bows his head to Gecktar and Rock, "I did not mean to insult you by calling you adventurer's. The distinction between choosing such a life and of being chosen is an important difference. You have also been correctly informed, I do have a small library, and I would be delighted to show you through it after dinner, although I am quite sure you will find no spellbooks."
The Dr. senses Toros, Flat-top's and Brahmah's discomfort and addresses the leader of the Chosen directly. "As leader of this group you are wise to be cautious, for as you say, hospitality has become less common in the Wold, but please rest easy, for you are welcome to take haven in my home while on this island." Brahmah does not sense anything in particular to suggest the man is lying, and as Winterglade tells the tale of their passage on the Sea Hag and their battle against the drowned, their host's interest is clearly evident.
"That is quite a story you tell" he replies to Winteglade, "it was quite ingenious to use the wreckage of your craft as a raft, and if I may, it sounds as if you should all be congratulated on working together as a team to overcome such a difficult situation. I assure you your passage off this island will be less traumatic, you were unlucky to approach the island from windward, for the lee side has a sheltered harbour and I expect a ship with supplies and guests to be arriving in the next day or two. I am sure we can arrange passage when they arrive."
Stevens circles the table carrying a large decanter of wine, filling the glasses of any of the Chosen who so wish. "Please, tell me more of this quest for which you have been chosen, and of your adventur...er... experiences so far. I love a good tale, and I am always interested in how those of strong mind and body overcome obstacles and foes", Dr. Mauroth continues, leaning forwared so as not to miss a word or facial expression of each storyteller
Winterglade Sunday July 23rd, 2006 12:35:55 AM
A ship! For Winterglade it is a mixed blessing. Still, it is good to know that the party won't be stuck in here doing nothing but waiting for Vargas to gain an edge on them.
Not really comfortable with discussing the party's real objective without leave from the rest of the group (and also, not knowing too much about it), the centaur humors his host by spinning a short tale about his misadventures while he was travelling in the swamp, looking for the group. Phrases like "mosquitoes the size of my fist", "more marsh gas and will-o-wisps you could shake your tail at", and "so much mud that after a day you looked like a shambling mound" dominate his story. Then he goes back in time to relate his experiences from different islands, trying to keep the mood up by recalling only those interracial misunderstandings that ended up in hilarity. He garnishes his tale with a brief commentary on social skills of ogres.
"...And so Winterglade was chasing them like a Sevenstone's Quarry all over the Wold, only to catch up with them and take part in a shipwreck. Strange story, strange fate, yes. Strange people."
Flat-top Sunday July 23rd, 2006 7:48:18 AM
As Flat-tops glass fills, the wine looks delightful, nice clear wine, as he is about to take a sip. Something in the back of his mind, that sound soo much like his Dam "If my Son, It looks too good to be true, Then watch out for the Fly in the Wine!!"
Flat-top listens to all the story of the chosen, BUT never takes a sip of the wine.
Brahmah Sunday July 23rd, 2006 10:17:22 AM
"We were Chosen by Domi for a mission to unite our races. Many of us have traveled to join this group. I think Domi had each us in mind from birth. That is the overall mission."
The minotaur looks aplogetically to the Doctor. "Our current part of the mission is one of secrecy and we can not say anymore. To tell you of the mission would make it seem that we seek glory, we do not."
"We need to return to the Taur Isles to continue our mission."
He raises a glass of water to his lips, sips and returns it to the table.
Posting Report For Monday July 24th, 2006 6:27:28 AM
#7 Game Week of July 17, 2006
Adm: DM Bob & Carla do you still want me to send you a E-mail Report??
(This is fine. E-mail not required. Thanks, Ceil)
Brahmah Monday July 24th, 2006 1:15:53 PM
He then finishes by saying, "We are guided by Domi. That is how we make it through the 'obstacles' as you refer to them."
Toros Monday July 24th, 2006 3:16:36 PM
Toros continues to eat, and only eat, but does not drink much in order to be able to eat more. "L
(Duplicate posting edited by DM Carla-Try to post again, and I can delete this post when the new and complete one is up.)
Flat -top Monday July 24th, 2006 3:37:20 PM
Flat-top puts the wine down and tell everybody "Boy! The salad is terrific! here have some, Sir! is this salad your cross seeds?"
Rock Monday July 24th, 2006 8:31:49 PM
Rock eats heartily, sampling anything meat-related that he hadn't eaten before and partaking a tiny tiny helping of any vegetable matter. He smiles and listens intently whenever anyone talks.
Zeoll d20+8=16 Monday July 24th, 2006 9:09:50 PM
Zeoll feels that he can be a little more forthcoming. With a glance at Brahmah, he adds this:
"Well, it is trrue that ourr currrent mission is secrret, but therre is much that you can deduce easily about ourr purrpose. We arre a company that includes all thrree of the Taurr rraces. We follow Domi, the Prrotectorr, the Brrave, and the Peacebrringerr. So I feel that ourr holy purrpose is obvious to one of yourr acumen. We seek to brring peace to the warrring Taurr rraces. We know that all can live togetherr as Domi's childrren. We arre an example of that, and we worrk to make it trrue thrroughout the Taurr Isles."
The liontaur sips an after-dinner drink. "But you arre a mysterry to me, good Doctorr. Herre you dwell, living with the liontaurrs to one side, and with the centaurrs and minotaurrs to the otherr, and yet we have not hearrd of you beforre. May I ask about yourr historry, and yourr home herre? Have you an opinion about the conflicts that drrive the Taurrs aparrt in this time of holy strrife?"
Zeoll ponders the words he just said. Hmmm. HAS he ever heard any hint in tale or song of this doctor and his house or his work?
Bardic Lore check 16.
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday July 25th, 2006 12:17:03 AM
With a look and a discreet gesture, the host signals to Stevens to fill his guests' glasses. A frown furrows his brow at the brevity of the taurs' responses to his questions, until Winterglade takes center stage. The doctor relaxes, leaning back in his seat, sipping his wine, and smiling on occasion, when the centaur recounts a particularly hilarious anecdote. Brahmah admits to their mission being a quest at a god's behest, and Zeoll elaborates. When the wemic speaks of the three taur races working together, the doctor's eyes shine. He leans forward, elbows on the table, and fingers steepled. He claps his hands lightly and nods as each salient point is made.
"My story is a sad and common one, and I shall not bore you with the details," volunteers the taciturn man, his grey eyes sweeping those seated around the table. "Disillusioned with the limitations of the larger wold, I have fled to the solace of this island. I have been fortunate during my life, to have acquired that which affords me the luxury of pursuing my studies uninterrupted and without interference." Zeoll has heard tales of men such as this doctor, who after some personal crisis or disappointment, retreat into their genius. Harmless recluse, scientific genius, secretive philanthropist, or mad man, they isolate themselves from any society, except that of their own choosing.
Desert is served, and a veritable cornucopia of fruits, fresh and dried, as well as nuts, and other sweet bounties of the earth are set upon the table. Dirty plates are replaced with clean one, and more drink is served. Flat-Top and Rock enjoy the feast, but Toros is more cautious.
"I am not oblivious to what goes on in the islands that neighbor mine," continues the doctor, "but the barbarism of your races, with their wars and oppression is without dignity. I give you cunning and feral instincts, but what of wisdom and intelligence? What is brute strength compared to a real superiority of mind?"
Winterglade Tuesday July 25th, 2006 3:55:58 AM
Ahhh, a philosophical discussion. Brahmah is going to love this evening.
Winterglade contemplates Doctor's statement for a moment before venturing to speak his mind.
"What a strange question. Strength and wisdom, they complement each other, so says the lore of the Windwalkers. The former protects your life, the latter makes it worth living. A brute without higher emotions is but an animal. A fragile philosopher all by himself will perish in this harsh Wold. Strength, wisdom: they are but tools to be used as one sees fit. Like hammer and tongs they are, yes. Deny yourself either one and you have crippled yourself."
"But perhaps, when you referred to a superior mind, you imagined one that, by the virtue of its understanding of the Wold, has the capacity to manipulate and influence others? Seemingly such a mind could escape the need to use strength at all. And yet, it too relies on brute force, which has to exist somewhere in the society, so that this mind can take advantage of its protection. Taken out of the context of the society such mind is as defensless as a child. Take the greatest leader, the most cunning manipulator, the most silvertongued diplomat, and put him alone on a path of a troll - he will get smeared on the ground, yes."
"Intellect can't stand alone by itself, for ultimately you will have to answer a question: what do I do when someone comes to take away by force that which is mine? You will have to resort to either strength, or trickery and magic, which are the same violence as a blow from a sword, only disguised, one in lights, the other in lies."
Flat-top Tuesday July 25th, 2006 9:38:21 AM
Flat-top listens to what Winterglade was saying, as he fills his stomack with fruits, nuts and all the rest of his goodies, He will speak honestly,
"I agree with my Centaur Brother, You have to have balance in all things!. Like those beautiful flowers we saw on the way here. They have the right soil, the right food, the water, the sunshine or lack there of. But If Some Clod-hopper come along and stomps on them or just on a whim grab some flowers and rips them out of the groung. With out protedtion of some kind of force to keep the bad bugs ond harmful hands. it would be as if they never exested at all! what a wast of life. Balance is what those flowers needs. Don't you think?" Flat-top ask his host.
Rock Tuesday July 25th, 2006 11:16:00 AM
Rock chuckles quietly to himself while Winterglad speaks.
"And what of those of us who make intellect its own weapon? Certianly I'm not as prepared for a fist-fight as one who trains only his strength, but the arcane allows us to alter the battlefield to our advantage, sometimes in more crude ways than others. I, for one, have yet to meet a taur who enjoys being set aflame."
And, with that, he shoves the last of the eels into his grinning mouth.
Brahmah Tuesday July 25th, 2006 1:28:47 PM
The minotaur, without realizing how easy it would be, started a philosophical discussion. He really dislikes politics and philosophy and doesn't understand how the two relate, but somehow manage to meet up in the middle.
"Mental mettle and physical strength are two seperate things Doc. Which strength do you refer? Yes, we are brutal. But look at our past. We had little choice but to fight. When have we had time to develope more? The Chosen seek to start a new era. A Golden Time."
Mental commentary. 'Stay out of the conversation you idiot. Don't sound stupid. What are you saying?! Golden Time?! How cheesy!'
Zeoll Tuesday July 25th, 2006 8:40:11 PM
Zeoll smiles at the doctor's words and the responses of his friends. He says, "Yes, I agrree with you, sirr. Therre can be warr with dignity, with honorr, as Domi teaches, but not if the warr is a feud between brrotherrs, not if warr is an excuse to exprress rrevenge and hatrred."
"The answerr to yourr question, Doctorr Maurroth, I think, is that if we Chosen succeed in brringing peace to the Taurr childrren of Domi, then we will have demonstrrated the trriumph of wisdom overr brrutality, and we Taurrs will be able to rejoin the Noble rraces as equals. If we cannot, then we will prrove ourrselves the ferral brrutes forr which you take us."
"Time will tell, I think, and soon."
In his secret heart, though, Zeoll is sad. He is careful to keep his emotions hidden, from Mauroth and his fellow Chosen, but inside he looks at what the the group has accomplished, or rather, not accomplished, and he feels like a failure.
What has the Chosen done? Lost the Hearthold Keep. Fled away for years from home. And the state of the Taur races is as contentious as ever. The Chosen have not solved any disputes. We have not spread word of the brotherhood of Taurs. We have not set any example, except that a small group of nine can work together. We have not brought the Isles closer to peace.
Well, maybe if the group can destroy the Black Sword and defeat Vargas, it would be something.
Toros Wednesday July 26th, 2006 12:09:55 AM
Toros seems to be determined to break his record of eating. However, at the beginning it was like all the plates were dry-cleaned, however later-on the wemic has started to be more selective, and the decrease in his performance could be noticed from the left-overs...
When this becomes unbearable the taur asks for excuse and checks the place of the restroom. After resting there, Toros is ready for the next round of the feast with the beast.
OOC: Thank you for the correction, Carla... As the feast continues I could integrate the two posts
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday July 26th, 2006 12:31:15 AM
Dr. Mauroth grows pensive as the taurs articulate their thoughts, as well as their hopes and dreams for their peoples and their homelands. (100 xp each to Winterglade and Zeoll for compelling arguments well articulated!)
As the dinner draws to a close, their host suggests, "let us retire to the library and continue this debate." Signaling the butler, he continues, "Stevens! Prepare the library."
The man with the close cropped hair, and tanned skin rises from his chair, and waits for his guests to do the same. "This way, then!" he announces and leads the way out of the grand dinning room and down an equally grand hallway.
Torchlight flickers in the passageway, revealing a series of tapestries decorating the walls. A careful observer will see they show a group of noblemen and hunters in pursuit of a unicorn which is eventually captured, brought back to a castle, and chained to a tree.
Winterglade Wednesday July 26th, 2006 3:41:25 AM Unusual tastes in this man, yes. Were Winterglade that rich he would invest in some magic lights instead of torches. But, perhaps, he distrusts magic?
The centaur trots along, not hiding his interest in the art decorating the hallway. "Chaining of the Unicorn... Those tapestries, do they tell a tale of old, or are they allegorical in nature?"
Flat -top Wednesday July 26th, 2006 6:41:30 AM
Flat-top bring along with him a handful of nuts to eat. He follows winterglade, looking at the same trapestries, wondering (out loud) "Oh! I hope this is a fairy tail! Imagen chaining a Unicorn to a tree!! How crule!"
Brahmah Wednesday July 26th, 2006 2:12:05 PM
"A small voice sometimes has a greater impact than an entire choir of singers. Take a large theatre, the stage covered in musicians and vocalists. The music is stirring, then the lone soloist steps onto stage. Her words are not drowned out by the rest. Hers stands alone. Beautiful. Complete. Moving.
The small soloist is, I believe, a good metaphor for what the Chosen do. If we get through to just one hateful taur, we have done our job." His eyes do not leave his fingertips resting on the table, as he says this.
He seems to know what Zeoll is thinking. Just a few months back, Brahmah himself had those issues. Felt like he HAD to do something himself. More rests on Brahmah's shoulders, leader, faceman of the Chosen, member of the WLA... The quiet Captain.
'Rescuing the Unitaurs, the two Children of Domi was a HUGE step!' He thinks to himself.
Rock Wednesday July 26th, 2006 3:47:24 PM
Rock drinks deep from a goblet of wine "Oh! Also, it is hard to march an army across a footbridge! That's what my master used to say about why he shunned the company of most other mages."
Zeoll Wednesday July 26th, 2006 8:47:56 PM
Zeoll watches as the group retires to the library, a kind of place that the illiterate wemic has heard of but seldom frequented.
He thinks about what he will say -- or sing -- when they reach the gathering room.
DM Bob & Carla Thursday July 27th, 2006 12:02:01 AM
The double doors open to reveal a wood paneled room glowing in the light of several candelabras. The walls are horizontal bands of color which on closer inspection prove to be collections of books ranged side by side like so many silent soldiers. Large, low chairs encircle a low table on which the manservant, Stevens, is busy setting out small sweets, a decanter of some amber liquid, and a large silver urn that appears hot to the touch.
"You all are literate, are you not?" Dr. Mauroth asks, looking inquisitively at the party. "What kind of books do you like? Myths? History? Biographies?" The man with the close cropped hair turns his back on his guests for a moment, and selects a tome. "Here I have a text that purports to tell the story Lars Tokasis, Hero of Annun Far, Scourge of the Dark Lord, Liberator of The Last Fortress. Quite a pompous title, wouldn't you say, for the self styled leader of the altruistic group of do-gooders, the Woldian League of Adventurers." The man's grey eyes calmly watch those who wear the blue pronged badge, to gauge their reaction.
Besides the high shelves of books that line the walls of the room, there are a half dozen glass cases, along the perimeter of the room, and a large table in the middle on one end. There are several artefacts on the table, and some rolls of parchment.
Winterglade Thursday July 27th, 2006 2:32:25 AM
Winterglade has never felt very comfortable in confined spaces, and this library is not an exception. The rows of bookspines remind him briefly of his misadventure with the Journye, but his curiosity prods him to slowly walk around the room, admiring the contents of the display cases and the goods on the table.
Such wealth. The man has to have ample means of protecting this place. There is no sign of a standing army, so it's probably magic after all.
"The Windwalkers don't write books. We teach our history to our children ourselves. It takes long, but it's part of what being a Windwalker is all about. Still, Winterglade does know how to read."
"What is your favourite story, Doctor?..."
Flat -top Thursday July 27th, 2006 6:47:47 AM
Flat-top clops along the rows of books on his way to the glass case. "In answer to your question, Sir. Yes, I can read. I have been to the Royal Navy School. Myth? Well from what I hear, we the Children of Domi are just Myths. History? Well we have writen a few passage in that long book of History. Biographies? Well now I love to read baout what Great Men or Taurs think of them selves.
But I would like to see some of your artifacts of thing of the pass, To see how they lived, work, fought and died. That to me would be very intresting. Don't you think?"
Brahmah d20+4=14 Thursday July 27th, 2006 3:35:11 PM
Brahmah's expression remains placid at his comment about the WLA.
"Doctor, have you ever done anything good for anyone? Besides feed them when they crash on you land that is?" He gauges the doctor's reaction. (Sense Motive 14)
Zeoll d20+9=22 Thursday July 27th, 2006 10:22:51 PM
Zeoll is in fact illiterate, although he can use magic to decipher the meaning of written things, mostly.
But he doesn;t say anything about that, or about the WLA. He just concentrates on the Doctor and tries to get a feel for him. Is he testing us? Trying to bait us?
Sense motive check 22
Toros Thursday July 27th, 2006 11:23:55 PM
Even if literate, Toros prefers to look at the pictures rather than reading the text. Because of that he spends some time in front of the tapestry of the unicorn hunt, staying behind others, as well as quickly turn the pages of some of the books with colorful covers, and open the rolls of scrolls with drawings.
DM Bob & Carla Friday July 28th, 2006 12:55:29 AM
"Please," says the doctor tersely as he turns and steps towards Toros, "your paws...those are very fragile." Toros Highlight to display spoiler: { gets a quick look at what appears to be a map of the island with some paths and certain landmarks marked out.}. The doctor gathers up the scrolls, and secures them in a leather case.
In the brief time between Brahmah's comment, and the man's rescue of his parchments, the captain recognizes well controlled anger in the man's cold stare. The observant Zeoll witnesses the look, and more. There is a certain self centered arrogance, pride and conceit, and something else...
Flat-Top examines the contents of one of the glass cases, and spies a collection of animal skulls arranged in order of size from very small to medium sized. "It is my belief that only those of superior skill, intelligence, or strength survive," says the doctor on noticing the centaur's interest. "They then give character to an area and shape its ecology. Wouldn't you agree?"
Winterglade notices the titles of some books near where he is standing. They are encyclopedias on animal life, and texts on population dynamics and animal behavior. "Have you read Dragon Spirit?" asks the doctor selecting a heavy tome and holding it out to the cleric, "it is about...survival." With a sigh he sets the book on a side table, and continues, "the one book, or rather, collection, that I should wish for is a complete Journye to the Moones, by Lord Karlton Pobberington-Whyte III's. I understand the library at the university in Plateau City has two copies, and yet the aquisition of a set evades me."
Gecktar and Rock inspect the refreshments set out by Stevens.
The doctor pours some of the amber liquid into a horn cup supported by a silver filigree tripod, and settles down into one of the deep chairs. "I am expecting some guests tomorrow, and will be busy much of the day, but will see that arrangements for your transportation from the island are made before tomorrow is through."
Winterglade Friday July 28th, 2006 4:14:57 AM
Winterglade doesn't mention that only a week ago he has been hauling around a full set of the Journye. For a moment he feels a pang of regret, realizing he might have missed out on an opportunity to make a profit, but then he is immediately displeased with himself for thinking in such a materialistic way. Besides, that Grith fellow somehow seemed much nicer than their current host. Somehow... more full of life? Winterglade recalls his outburst of enthusiasm at the sight of the books and becomes glad that the books ended up where they did.
"We will be very grateful if you do so, Doctor."
The centaur slowly pages through the Dragon Spirit, wondering where this sudden feeling of impending danger came from. "What about previous inhabitants of this island? Did they lose the battle for survival?"
Flat-top d20=18 Friday July 28th, 2006 6:38:20 AM
As flat-top looks at the skull in the case, He also listen To the Doctor. He half listens to what he is saying, but he is lookiing not only the sckull, but also the teeth? How much ware did they have? The smaller ones semmes to have children teeth? The older skulls ave some ware done to their teeth?
Flat-top dos not like this Doctor?? Something wrong here! Flat-tops is not too far from Winterglade and Toros, "What are you two looking at? Flat-top will wander towards the two. Hoping to have a little talk with then, ALONE!
Rock Friday July 28th, 2006 8:31:42 AM
Rock checks the shelves for anything that could possibly be a spellbook.
Toros Friday July 28th, 2006 1:21:26 PM
OOC: I will be away from my place next week and I do not know the Internet access conditions at where I will be. In case I cannot post I hope Toros can be NPCed by the DM. Thanks a lot, good luck and see you soon!!
Brahmah Friday July 28th, 2006 4:11:52 PM
Brahmah is almost discouraged to see the Doctor is controling his anger. Staring back into the Doctor's cold eyes, the minotaur says, "Control is one of those few things that intelligent species have over animals. Animals go on instinct and the environment dictates their existance. People work off what they learn and they redesign their environment to suit them, therefore, they tend to control the animals. See Doctor, it all comes to control. Control is so closely related to domination that the person in control rarely knows control itself is dominating him. One who dominates others is known, commonly, as a tyrant."
"A good leader learns from his or her companions and takes what he learns to the next situation. There is no domination. No over-powering force of will.
A tyrant has no friends, just subordinates and slaves."
"So I guess what it boils down to Docis... Are you saying that any species that is not literate are animals?"
Brahmah Friday July 28th, 2006 4:13:36 PM
"Do you... have any friends Doctor?"
Zeoll d20+19=31 d20+17=31 Friday July 28th, 2006 9:17:01 PM
Zeoll is not surprised at the hostility some of the Chosen show towards their host, but he is a little more than somewhat alarmed at the tone. He does his best to calm the situation.
"Come, my fellow Chosen! Domi tells us to speak ill of no one, and He is always polite and chivalrrous. At least, He was on the occaisions in which I met Him."
"Let us rrememberr ourr mannerrs, and that we arre in the debt of ourr host, who has not only grranted hospitality to arrmed strrangerrs, but who has said he will help us rresume ourr holy mission. Forr that we owe the good doctorr ourr deep thanks!"
Diplomacy check 31.
If his hook has caught any interest, Zeoll will sing the stories of when he met Domi -- if the doctor is interested, Zeoll will chant while beating the drum.
Perform Check 31.
Toros Saturday July 29th, 2006 1:28:59 PM
Toros looks at his fingers, they could be a little bit oily from the delicious dinner, but they are never used for cutting or whatever. Certainly, this doctor has other things in mind. Could they be about those maps??
Toros also approaches to Flat-top and silently tells what he has seen on the parchments before the doctor has collected them all.
Rock Saturday July 29th, 2006 1:33:08 PM
As Rock listens to the Doctor speak about books and literacy, he nods, his brow wrinkling, though the human doctor most likely doesn't notice the look of concern. "I've read quite a bit. I'm not sure how many of those titles I've read, as most of my study has been in Tauric and Minotauran. I only learned to read common so that I could more easily correspond with people I may meet in my travels. I find the language mostly without passion or... verve, I think is the word for it."
When the Chosen's leader speaks, Rock interjects "A species cannot be literate or illiterate unless they somehow have an instinctual written language. An interesting concept as that may be, I've never witnessed or read about an occurance of any such thing. All species, human, minotaur, goblin, dragon, whathaveyou, are illiterate until an individual chooses to not be or a society decides to not allow its citizens to be. I find the tauric societies' policy on it, or lack there of, to allow for more personal freedoms, and it allows me a certain niche in society I may not have enjoyed otherwise."
DM Bob & Carla Sunday July 30th, 2006 10:57:15 PM
The Doctor sits back in his leather chair and listens to the arguments voiced by each of the taurs.
"If you mean the wild animals that made this island home, than they continue to survive" he answers Winterglade. "There were no intelligent creatures before my arrival". The doctor drinks from his glass before continuing. "Yet, what is intelligence? Surely more than the presence of written language, for as you say, not all societies have made this a priority. And surely not just the ability to control ones environment, for many creatures have accomplished this. The beaver builds a dam to create a pond that will not freeze in winter's harsh grip. Yet we do not speak of the beaver as a higher life form."
Toros watches as the Doctor carefully rolls up the parchment map. He is fairly certain it was a map of the island, for he recognized the coastline where they were shipwrecked, the grassy steppelands, and of course the location of the manor in the jungle valley. There was also a dock on the opposite shore to where he believes they landed.
Flat-top examines the skull collection, and inparticular the teeth. The skulls are from a variety of animals, and each bears a label; shrew, hare, wildcat, dog, bear, and elk to name a few. The collection overall, illustrates the different dentition associated with each species. Sharp pointy teeth for the insectivorous shrew, grinding molars for the hare and elk, sharp cutting premolars on the cat and dog, and of course the longer canine teeth on all the predators, designed to puncture anf hold their prey.
The Doctor is clearly enjoying the discussion, despite the somewhat argumentative tone of some of the taurs. "No, there is something more to this intelligence. The capacity for abstract thought, art, music, or is it religion?" he asks. "Do mere animals pay tribute to the gods? No matter..." he waves the thought away. Tomorrow we will arrange your passage from the island, until then, please make yourselves welcome. I shall see you before you leave." With that the Doctor leaves the Chosen to their own devices and under the watchful eye of Stevens.
Flat-top Monday July 31st, 2006 6:52:57 AM
Flat-top Smiles and waves at the departure of the Good Doctor. The heturns to Toros "Now! Tell me again, Please, What this set of maps were you looked at that seem to upset the Doctor? Is it this Island? OUR Island? I have a few dangerious question I would like answered about this Island myself? the more I see og this Manson! The less I like it!"
Posting Report For Monday July 31st, 2006 7:01:13 AM
Game #7 Week of July 24, 2006
Name MTWTF DM Bob DM Carla XXXXOS
Brahmah XX2X2 GetTar OOOOO There should be a sub for Guiles. Rock XXXOXS Flat-top XXXXX Winterglade OXXXX Toros XXOXXS Zeole XXXXX
Winterglade Monday July 31st, 2006 10:15:34 AM
"Hm, Winterglade wonders if the Doctor is aware of the ruined pier that we have stumbled upon. Obviously someone has been living on this island before him, but maybe their settlements have overgrown so much that we were lucky to find anything. Or maybe the pier has been built by Doctor's servants long ago."
"Strange man that Doctor, yes. Winterglade can't quite figure out what drives him. Still, without him we would be stuck here for who knows how long. For that alone he counts as a blessing in Winterglade's book."
Brahmah Monday July 31st, 2006 11:13:53 AM
(OOC: I'm not even sure if anyone has a copy of Gecktars sheet. I know I don't)
Brahmah stops talking to the Doctor. He dislikes the man. He leaves, not excusing himself and walks out onto the grounds.
Zeoll d20+15=16 d20+17=20 Monday July 31st, 2006 4:34:28 PM
Zeoll speaks to his friends in Tauric: "I wonder why he left so suddenly. And wherre did Captain Brrahmah go? Well, I think therre arre mysterries to explorre herre."
Then Zeoll makes a Bluff check to communicate secretly to his friends, but his message is unclear (rolled a nat 1).
Then Zeoll goes goes to the table, takes a drink of the amber liquid, and says, "Well, ourr host has rretirred forr the night, but why not celebrrate ourr safe landing herre? Let me offerr a song orr two."
Tapping out a rhythm on his drum, the liontaur launches into a song that tells the story of how the Chosen were blessed and tested by Domi. He is in fact Fascinating the servant. Perform Check 20 is also the Will save DC.
Toros (Sub by Cayzle) Monday July 31st, 2006 4:35:56 PM
Toros wonders what Zeoll is up to, but has no clue himself. However, he will try to take a look again at the volumes that the doctor tried to move him away from. What was that man trying to hide?
DM Bob & Carla d20+5=15 Monday July 31st, 2006 11:57:32 PM
Stevens is about to say something to Brahmah as the taur departs, but Zeoll's drumming catches his attention and he listens intently to the wemic,s song [Will save=15]
Toros easily finds the parchment maps he had been looking at earlier and Stevens makes no move to stop his and Flat-Tops investigation. The maps are clearly of this island and show in some detail the topography and land cover of the place. The old ruined fishing weir and dock are marked as such, as is the location of another dock on the opposite side of the island.
Brahmah's walk leads him along a wide hallway towards two glassed doors to the outside and a large stone veranda. On the way he passes by a games room dominated by a large green-topped table with different colored balls scattered across it's surface. A number of stuffed specimens, mostly birds of prey, adorn the walls.
A second room appears to be some kind of den or study. A large desk occupies one corner and two large wing-backed chairs sit on either side of a smaller chart table. A large stuffed bear stands menacingly by the desk, and a number of mounted animal heads hang from the walls.
Once outside, the warm humid night air envelops the taur and carries the sweet scent of fruit trees and the damp undertones of decaying leaves. Only the buzzes and chirps and clicks of night insects break the silence.
Winterglade Tuesday August 1st, 2006 8:12:16 AM
Winterglade uneasily steps from one hoof to another.
"Well, eh, if you need Winterglade he will be outside in the garden. He doesn't take spending too much time under the roof too well. It's unnatural. Have a good night."
The centaur politely nods in the direction of Stevens and trots outside. Soon he is stading on a patch in the garden, looking at the moon, lost in thoughts.
Brahmah Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:28:56 AM
The birds of prey remind Brahmah of Paw'cah.
The minotaur heads outside and calls for his companion. *Signal whistle*
If his eagle doesn't appear today, bad things will happen to the Doctor and Stevens.
Gecktar Tuesday August 1st, 2006 4:26:51 PM
OOC return from vacation...
After a silent meal appraciating the raffined food, he asks himself many questions about this strange man. He let the rythm of the song of Zeoll take him and clear his mind of those question. Yes landing here was the will of Domi.
Zeoll Tuesday August 1st, 2006 9:29:11 PM
Zeoll continues to spin his compelling song.
[OOC: Gilles, welcome back! Ceil, hope you are feeling better!]
Toros (Sub by Cayzle) Tuesday August 1st, 2006 9:31:42 PM
While the servant is distracted, Toros continues to look for any revealing details. Maybe a secret door? Or the contents of the other glass cases?
He says to Flat-top, "See what you can find, but don;t be obvious!"
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 7:50:58 AM
Night has fallen in this small corner of the Wold. Brahmah's call for his avian companion cannot be heeded in the dark. He calls nevertheless, perhaps to ease the sense of isolation he feels in this strange place.
Zeoll continues his performance and Stevens listens intently, absolutely enthralled with the wemics song. He does not seem to notice Toros and Flat-top investigating the library. The two come across a great many books, a number of collections of insects, neatly pinned in rows inside glass-topped cases. By far the most interesting is a case containing phasmids of a variety of sizes, shapes and colorations. One can easily see how these strange 'stick' and 'leaf' insects could blend in with their surroundings.
[OOC if you want to find secret doors or look for things out-of-the-ordinary, a search check is required!]
Gecktar and Winterglade take solice in their own thoughts, the centaur out on the lawn, and Gecktar in the library whilst listening to Zeoll.
Flat -top d20+4=21 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:03:19 AM
Flat-top serches along the walls, in the book case for false books, he's looking for any thing out of place or does not belomg there.
Serch 21
(Thanks Cayzle today should be the worse, I'm goint now to a air condition room, I wonder if those firemen will bring moor water? very nice of them)
Brahmah Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:24:53 AM
Once the Chosen bed down, the Captain stands vigilant over the group most of the night, only catching a cat nap or two.
Gecktar Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 3:53:34 PM
Gecktar lurks in the library, looking at some tomes, reading passages of a book then another. When his curiosity is satisfied, he says good night to all Chosen and go to bed.
Rock Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 4:28:59 PM
Rock shows no indication of any suspicion until he's behind his closed chamber door. Briefly looking out the window to make sure Mandragora is around and ready, he nods. He precariously leans whatever he can against the door so that, if opened, the objects will crash down and wake him and then dons his full adventuring gear, climbs under the bedding and attempts to get some sleep.
Zeoll d20+19=33 d20+10=13 d20+9=27 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:09:20 PM
Zeoll finishes his song, then engages the servant in conversation. What did he think of the music? Are there any songs he would like to hear? What are some of his favorite tunes? Zeoll is not especially interested in the answers to these questions, but he is trying to put the man at ease.
Maybe they can share some of the beverages set out at the table. Maybe through a conversation, Zeoll can draw him out, get a feel for the fellow, find out more about the doctor and this place. Most especially: Is there any danger or threat to the Chosen here?
Diplomacy 33, Gather Info 13, Sense Motive 27!
Toros (Sub by Cayzle) d20=3 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:10:04 PM
Toros continues his search while the song continues (rolls a 3!). He stops when the song finishes, then offers to escort Flat-top to their quarters.
Brahmah Thursday August 3rd, 2006 9:21:04 AM
The minotaur stays vigilant.
Winterglade Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:26:30 AM
The centaur, as is his habit, spends the first hours of the evening dozing off lightly. During the night he is busy working on yet another magic cloak. He would normally do that outside, but soon he realizes that the light of the small lamp he borrowed from the manor draws so many insects that it is next to impossible to concentrate on work at hand. So, finally, he gives up and moves back to the room assigned to him to continue his quiet work.
LOG ON