DM Jan Monday July 31st, 2006 1:58:50 AM
By the time the rest of the group have assembled and begun the journey, Mordrid has already disappeared, having gone ahead. Unless Falin states otherwise, the elves seem to want to march in 3's, the younger ones at the front, and with half the entire party on foot, a reasonable marching pace is the norm. It's flat(ish) ground, the air is cool.
On this part of the journey, none of the group see a soul, with the exception of Ve Mundr, up in the air on his carpet, and what he sees are distant farmers, out in the fields, and the occasional horse and cart. No one is approaching the party, or appearing to show any interest.
Evidence of Parnoth's Culverwood cultivation can be seen here and there, but it's overgrown and getting wilder by the day. To everyone's left, the depths of the forest hurls forth the occasional shriek or growl from it's occupants, but no one is molested. Even Gunther's huge cat comes across nothing of interest, except for a rather large rabbit. There's nothing ominous about this. It appears to be merely a quiet day.
After six leagues (Approx 18 miles) heading east, with the sun way behind the trees, Mordrid appears. Here is a slight clearing just inside the tree line. Maybe a good place to camp without being seen.
Of course 6 leagues will mean sore feet and backsides to anyone who hasn't walked or ridden a distance recently.
Posting Report For Monday July 31st, 2006 6:10:38 AM
Game # 1 Platinum Dragons Week of July 24, 2006
Gunther Monday July 31st, 2006 8:41:50 AM
Finally all by himself, Gunther enjoys walking along and just taking in the countryside. Though he loves his companions...some more than others...it's nice to have some time alone...like in the old days. As he walks, Gunther keeps an eye on Thaeri and smiles when she brings back the huge rabbit. As he travels, Gunther wonders when his items are going to arrive from the Catacombs.
Falin Monday July 31st, 2006 9:27:05 AM
During the march Falin will watch the other elves to see how they are holding up. It causes geat pride in Falin to see his fellow elves take up arms. Especially with so many of them young in years. He will walk over to Ne'thrin to converse.
"Ne'thrin, what is it that you do among the elves? What is your profession? Do you have family?" He waits for the answers to these questions.
After a bit more conversation Falin asks, "Do any of these elves have Boyer and Fletching skills? I would like to take some time tonite, when we break, to test their marksman skills, but I want to be able to restock our supply of arrows."
He pauses for a second and continues, "Also, are their any other skills that any of the elves are expecially good at that I should know about?"
After they stop for the eveing, and camp has been made, Falin take the elves and any others willing to give of their time for training and begin working through strategy with the elves. He will also focus on marksmanship and targeting since that is what he knows. If there are others there that are good with the sword he will break the elves up into groups and begin to rotate them to different teachers.
Lian Monday July 31st, 2006 11:06:43 AM
Lian rushes off to see his old friend, probably for the last time. "Merlot, my friend, I am sorry I couldn't give you that last adventure like I promised." He strokes the old horses nose and kisses it. "Be well. I hope to see you well and hopefully I will ride you one last time as an Emerald Dragon." With one last stroke of his main, Lian removes two strands of hair from his horses brush, curls them up and places them inside his new ring. Closing the ring, he glances once more at his friend and rushes to meet an uncertain destiny.
Lian says hello to Poki and happily guards Valdor's snacks from any raiders. "It will be an honor to watch his food." Says the hand with a smirk.
"Knara, I have some gifts for the group when we stop for the day."
Corialote and Amarth Monday July 31st, 2006 6:46:16 PM
Cori finds the ride peaceful, even with all the people along. About eight miles into the ride though she starts to feel the effects of what not being in the saddle will do to you. She makes no complaints though as she rides along but does at times dismount to lead her horse which leaves her lagging a little.
When it appears to be time to stop at last or at least she would hope for all thier sakes, she dismounts one last time. Though weary and tired from the ride she will offer her assistance in training the elves in the use of the bow and rapier...being a wizardess she has at least a little skill. So she goes off to find the Emerald Falin. "I would offer my services in helping with the bow and rapier...if my presence would not be distracting or unwanted?" Old habits are hard for anyone to let go off and she is full aware of her heritage and what that entails to some.
Milo Monday July 31st, 2006 8:45:36 PM
Milo rides silently astride the same steed as Olana, considering the task before them, as well as those who've gathered to complete it. He wonders, not for the first time, if he has finally gotten in over his head. He then remembers his proximity to his beloved, and the scent of her hair, armor, and all makes him forget any doubts he may have just had.
K'Nara Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:26:59 AM
The tall human blade singer marches along with the ranks of the archers, engaging many in probing questions about their lives at Madryn and their hopes and dreams. She sincerely wishes them the best in this upcoming struggle against evil (and she has NO doubt that the united groups will come up against evil on a grand scale); K'Nara knows that too many will fall in battle.
Until such time that combat may whittle their number, however, K'Nara is determined to get to know as many of the elves as possible, that she may remember them to their kin upon returning to the Talons' Tower.
Valdor d20+18=34 Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:46:10 AM
Valdor marches with everyone else for most of the day. He keeps rotating the youngest and oldest who seem to stumble occasionally, or maybe they look winded. When he does it, he makes sure that he tells them that his mount is a fine horse and he would like them to see how calm and manageable it is, to make sure he's right. Anything to allow them to save face and not look weak to their friends and relatives. He knows most elves are an extremely prideful group, and with good reason. They aren't, however, immortal, and some will succumb to the harsh conditions. He knows they will need their strength when the fighting starts, and the fighting will start he is quite positive.
He is relieved for the group when Mordrid appears to have found a good camping spot. He trusts Mordrid as much as anyone in the Wold, so he calls for a slowdown and then a breaking for the evening. He makes sure everyone stretches well and gets plenty of water. He also suggests to Nick and Ve that before they go to bed, that they cast whatever healing spells, especially the mass healing spells, that they can. Sore feet and backs are not good to go into battle with and battle is coming soon.
He observes Falin training the archers and nods with satisfaction at his ability and his willingness. He leans over to Dahlia at one point and says,"That's what being a dragon is all about...knowing what to do and doing it without thought of reward or personal gain. The rewards come naturally, and I don't mean monetary."
He grins as he watches the Emerald Talons. He remebers so many years ago, before their final task...they were so young then. The Desert of Desolation, Faye Skeimer, the Astral Plane, and so many others. How did we survive all those times?
He snaps out of his reberie and makes his way around, just chatting with as many of the elves and Talons as possible before setting watches. He figures he'll take the first watch and asks for volunteers for every three hours. He makes sure their are at least six watchers per shift and only one youth or older elf with each group, knowing how tired they will be. He makes sure that one member of the Platinums and one member of the Talons are with each group. The camp will be a square and a guard will be at each corner with two hunter quality adventurers patrolling outside the square. He takes no chances with a surprise attack. He sleeps lightly towards the center of camp so he can be at any side in seconds if an attack comes. He asks Cori to be ready the next day for her large undertaking.
He also suggests to all the clerics that they pray for spells of healing more than for fighting, as they will undoubtably lose some of their war party. It makes him a little ill to talk of such, as he's never even thought about the possibility losing a member of a group he fought with, but he knows it's a reality in war. Normally, he was surrounded with the best adventurers in the land and although there are many capable warriors here, he knows some may perish...and it hurts him to think about such things.
When everyone settles down, he activates his ring of invisibility and finds a large tree a short ways from the camp to watch from...thinking.
Mordrid Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:53:02 AM
Mordrid grimaces as he watches the fledgling skills of some of the elves. He's used to those with much more experience. However, they will at least aid us in battle and that's a plus. He knows he's got to make sure they don't get caught into the melee or they're dead in a hurry. He whispers to Falin,"Not only do they need this practice, but they must know when to fire and how to move back from the thick of the fight. They should form groups of eight, with a leader of each. These leaders should answer to you or K'Nara and should only give the order to fire if one of you commands it. Fire and retreat should be something you teach them. They don't have much time to learn, so keep I'd keep it simple."
He leaves so as to not appear to try to be giving any orders, but he really wants as many of them as possible to live.
He takes the second watch and roams the forest in silence and in the shadows.
Olana Tuesday August 1st, 2006 1:14:21 AM
Olana gives Ve Mundr a smile and a slight bow. "We'll take good care of your horse," she says, "and when you have need of it - it's yours."
"C'mon Milo, we've got a mount," she says with a wink. "Okay riding at point? I guess we need to keep our eyes open."
As they ride she can sense his trepidation, purely going off his body language. She isn't worried about Milo. She knows how skillful he is, and how he can take care of himself.
She'll offer to tie the horses when they reach camp, and she'll volunteer for a watch.
Nick Tuesday August 1st, 2006 1:31:18 AM
Arriving at camp, Nick dismounts - Ah, Alemi, the pain, it has been a while since I have ridden for so long - nods at Valdor and sets off about the camp checking on everyone. Once he's done with everyone else, he'll see to his own aching limbs. Hopefully, no one noticed him hobbling about. Pride was making him feel a little angry toward the creature that had sucked the life out of him. But that he could deal with in his prayers.
He'll volunteer for a watch also.
DM Jan Tuesday August 1st, 2006 2:28:47 AM
On this first day with the elves, K'Nara and Falin discover the following -
Like a teacher with a new class, here is a sea of unknown faces, and maybe one or two toward the end of the day start to become familiar. Getting to know them will take time and persistance. Something interesting does emerge, however, especially after talking to Ne'thrin, a Culverwood hunter. The elder elves are in a bit of a quandry. They know the younger ones must be taught, and perhaps that they should help, but this seems to fly in the face of their traditions of respect and patience. The elder ones, completely subconsciously, are holding out on teaching the young. So when Falin starts in on his training, he finds the younger ones initially hesitant, but becoming more eager as the day and evening goes by. As archery practice goes on into evening - it becomes evident amongst the young that the boys, right now, have a longer range. Accuracy is at 60%. Manufacture of projectiles is a little sketchy. The elder ones are extremely competent, easily as good as the Talons bow-wielders. There are a few of the elder and younger related to one another, but there is also a significant group of the younger ones who do not know if their parents are alive or dead. Parnoth, Ebyron, and other events have scattered the elves throughout the forest. The younger ones have appeared to have fixed this trauma by quickly becoming a team. One helps another and vice versa.
As Cori arrives and offers her services with the elves, faces glance at one another. Both young and old regard her with respect, wonder (they know the old stories, the prejudices, despite being enlightened on the subject of drow), and fear - why? Because she is a Platinum Dragon, they assume that she is a drow matriarch, and definitely not to be trifled with. Here was their other elven leader?
There's plenty of work to be done in the form of blisters and aching muscles for Bertram, Nick and Ve. And the humans seem to be suffering the most.
Valdor ensures that the camp is secure for the night, and during their shift on watch, those awake might have cause to wonder about what lies ahead. It is a quiet, beautiful night, seductive in its suggestion that the rest of the Wold also lies at peace. Only the knowledge of dragons suggest otherwise, and everyone here has at least some bitter knowledge of a chromatic dragon. Power, intelligence, cunning and greed. A heady mixture that flew in the face of this restful night. So that what should have been a restorative night, was tainted by the potential horror of what lay ahead.
Dawn breaks! And Gunther's big cat has bagged a deer.
Gunther Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:22:59 AM
The warrior beams in pride at his kitty. And then, in complete joy, he realises that the time has come...he can finally speak with her. "Quite a catch you have there my friend! Must have been a fine night for hunting. Eat well and enjoy for we are headed to danger."
Lian Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:24:33 AM
Bows and armies have never been Lian's thing and they are still of little interest to the Hand of Domi. He meditates nearby while they practice, occassionally batting a stray arrow from the air. Every now and then the monk remembers that there should be TWO elven leaders for these archers.
Divination was never Lian's favorite thing to attempt, in fact, he had never divined anything. The hand of Domi finds an out the way corner of camp in the evening and casts Augury. (Lian is heading back into the CC to purchase the focuses and the expensive components he is missing!)
Augury question: "Am I to help lead these 42 elven archers?"
Ve Mundr Tuesday August 1st, 2006 4:17:06 PM
Ve lands as the group begins to break for camp and locates Valdor. The cleric nods at his assestment and after erecting his own small bivowaq, he starts moving through the troops. Ve is pretty sure they will not be attacked this day and decides to spread the mercy of Domi. Ve converts the majority of his spells to powerful Mass curing spells.
Later he will track down Valdor and the rest of the Platinum Dragons at least. If any of the Emerald Talons are about that is fine, but he won't go hunting them down. "Valdor I was thinking, we should utilize mine and Father Nicholas's ability to create a morning feast each day. We could bring forth a great feast, including a magnificent table, chairs, service, and food and drink. The feast would take an hour to consume, and everyone would be cured of all diseases, sickness, and nausea. Us and our troops would be immune to poison for 12 hours and gain increased fortitude. Such a feast would alos grant immunity to Fear, an increase of Will and a more sure hand in the event of attack."
Assuming Valdor agrees, the following day Ve will cast Heroes Feast, to feed 44 people and let Father Nicholas handle the other half.
Brother Bertram Tuesday August 1st, 2006 7:26:35 PM
Bertram works with the others treating injuries. It was oddly satisfying work. Bertram realized after leaving the temple guard position, He had never had time to just minister to the people. He took pleasure in the simplest acts and the grateful smiles afterward. To each he gave a few words of strength from Domi and Gargul.
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday August 1st, 2006 9:47:32 PM
Cori finds that she can fall easily into the teacher role as she work with some of the elves in both bowwork and swordwork. Before that though she is quick to point out some things to the elves. "I am not to be your co-leader...that is a job for one of the other Emeralds who have helped you out." She rewards them with a smile that would melt most mens' hearts. "I am here to help out in your training with weapons so that you can come back alive. I am a wizardess and know the need to hit a target and then fall back...something that you will all have to learn." The rest of the night is spent with the elves practicing and getting them ready. She does her best to remember names and faces as she works and eats with them all. Her mind turns to the fighting that will happen and the lives that will be lost. An hour before she turns in for bed she finds a secluded spot off from the others that she cannot be observed and cries.
Amarth perched on her shoulder whispers to her as she does. He can feel the conflicting emotions in his Mistress more keenly than anyone else. For so long she has worked to protect just these type of people and to have them rish their lives fills her with sadness....but also a sense of pride.
Her turn at watch is spent in quiet contemplation of a great many things...but finally she turns to her spellbook. At least with her mind buried in spell formula she can forget all else...for a time.
Falin Tuesday August 1st, 2006 10:02:49 PM
Through the practice Falin keeps Mordrids suggestion in mind. He begins looking at the elves. He will think about who to put into different groups of eight and he is going to look for four different elves to lead each one. He is looking to mix the older and younger elves. He wants to find two older elves and two younger elves to pick as leaders.
He will begin briefing tactics during the march the next day.
Olana Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:05:42 PM
In between watches, Olana will keep checking on the horses and make sure they're getting rest. Other than that, she'll spend time watching the others train the group of elves, and will talk quietly to Milo - just small talk, to help keep her mind off that horrible cave and that rotting excuse for a creature that kept her locked up in a box.
When morning arrives, she'll feed the horses and check their shoes.
Nick Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:16:13 PM
Nick's agreeable to Ve Mundr's suggestion if they get the okay from Valdor. Before settling down to sleep he has a quiet word with Dahlia. "If it's convenient, would you wake me when it's my watch?" He's not worried about waking up in the morning, but he's no longer a light sleeper, and he didn't want to sleep through his watch.
In the AM, he'll settle somewhere quiet, commit some time to prayer, then meet up with Ve to cast the heroes feast spell.
Valdor Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:29:34 PM
Valdor responds to Ve,"That's a great idea. People march and fight better when they feel good and not worn down. Knowing they have such a breakfast will also let them relax more as they sleep, which will help them as well.
He watches all the heroes with great pride and lets it show on his face. He wakes early and moves out from camp a short way to begin his stretching and exercise routine wearing only his leather pants. His muscles glisten in the morning sun as he begins to sweat. He loosens up and heads back for breakfast.
He makes sure they go at a more reasonable pace this morning, and lets Mordrid find a campground for the evening. They will break for camp about four hours before dark and set up like the previous night. He tells Cori to be prepared for her spell shortly after sundown. He tells only K'Nara, Dahlia, Mordrid, Nick, and Ve about their plan. He doesn't want any open discussions about it, and figures that K'Nara can quietly tell the Talons one at a time.
Aeralia Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:33:53 PM
Aeralia remains fairly quiet during most of the first day's trek, whispering with Terrin as they walk, or glancing about, seemingly preoccupied. As the day nears the end, the long days walk seems to start to take its toll on the young woman, shoulders slumped and legs dragging as they head into the camp for the night. Once they stop for camp, both Aeralia and Terrin set out their bedrolls, and Terrin retires for the evening almost immediately, sleeping in a motionless and silent slumber.
As dusk overtakes the camp, and others set out to practice, or pray, Aeralia takes the time for a bit of practice of her own. Sighting Lian, in his meditation, Aeralia picks him as her first test subject, and creeps towards him, hoping not to interfer with his prayer. Once shes within about 20 feet or so, she glances over the motionless elf quickly, taking in as much detail as she can. Moments later, after a slight bit of chanting and channeling of magical energies, a second 'Lian' phases into existance, mimicing the elf's posture. Creeping forward more, Aeralia examines what differences there are between her copy and the original, frowning at what she missed, smiling at what she didn't. As she looks over Lian with a little more scruiteny, she slowly makes the changes to her copy-Lian, until its almost an exact replica of the elven monk. Once satisfied, she banishes her spell with a slight wave, and heads out to find another of her comrades to duplicate.
Once she's found another of her allies and sufficiently copied them, she re-conjures her illusion of Lian, as best she can, and walks him over to the original, to test how much detail she remembered. If he doesn't seem completely engrossed in his meditiation, she risks bothing him, "Um...Lian right? You wouldn't mind, um, moving around a little, would you? Slowly, though, it takes a bit to try and learn how someone moves." If he complies, she'll have her copy-Lian mimic his movements as best she can, concentrating on basics at first, then adding detail.
"We'll have to add some sound tomorrow night," she smiles as she finishes her illusionary practice, and waves as she heads back to her bedroll to turn in for the night. If she is wanted for a watch, she'll take one, otherwise she sleeps as long as she can, and prepares quietly the next morning.
[Casting 8 or so Silent Images in her practice of duplicating Lian and one other Talon (whomever seemed 'least active' at the time, and would pose a static image to start)]
Mordrid Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:45:51 PM
Mordrid sets off before dawn to scout ahead. He never could sleep much. He always figured he'd rest a lot when he was dead. Plus, the weight of responsibility weighs upon him. He is tired of fighting...always a battle somewhere to be fought. He sees Valdor moving to exercise and grins at the warriors defined physique. Had he not goaded Valdor into all of this recent exercise, he might've turned fat, but he looks himself again. Funny how words can affect people.
He moves out quickly and with purpose and goes invisible. He moves as quietly as possible while maintaining speed to get well ahead of the group. He keeps the others up on his progress with his earpiece.
Gunther Tuesday August 1st, 2006 11:51:23 PM
The big cat trainer gladly agrees to help out the newest Talon with her practice, seeing as most of the others are preoccupied with the this's and that's of leadership. He moves slowly but delicately, turning when asked and trying to be a good model.
Gunther smiles as he is not handed out a leadership roll. He's always been the strong, silent type. After a brief workout session, preferably with K'nara if she can break free, Gunther spends most of the rest of the time basking in the glory that is his kitty. Soon, she would be tested in battle, but for now, he's happy just to watch her hunt in the forest.
Lian Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 12:19:11 AM
Lian doesn't answer, just smirks with his eyes still closed. He nods silently to Aeralia.
'Duplication might be the highest form of flattery in this case.' He thinks hopefully.
Olana Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 12:41:38 AM
Walking past the cat trainer as he twists and turns for Aeralia, she can't help but smile. "Looking sharp, Gunther," she says with a wink, before walking to the opposite side of the camp.
DM Jan Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 2:05:33 AM
After staring at his pile of sticks and bones, while a small cloud of incense assails his nostrils, an answer begins to form in Lian's mind. Weal... and he remembers the nod Ne'thrin gave him back at the camp.
After the grand and utterly restorative breakfast provided by Nick and Ve, the march continues.
The elven group seem a little more animated on this day, and talk quietly in whispers about the previous night's training and the astonishing sight of Aeralia's doppelgangers. Er'eth and Al'thra, two of the younger female elves appear to be a little more assertive than the other young ones, whereas Ne'thrin and another of the older, male hunters named Feld'he, appear to be regarded as leaders within their group.
Second night, accuracy is up to 65%, and there's less complaining about having to search high and low for spent arrows. Still, K'Nara, Falin, Lian and Cori have their hands full.
Although Valdor has set a slightly easier pace, it's still a tough day for all, and will keep the clerics Bertram, Nick and Ve busy, while Dahlia, Ingrge, Gunther, Valdor, Mordrid, Aeralia, Olana and Milo find plenty to do in the way of spell research, planning and chores. Another uneventful night, and sleep, for those who need it, is most welcome.
Dawn arrives once more, with a general air of anticipation.
And Gunther's big cat has bagged a rather unappetizing, scraggy-looking, long-necked bird.
Milo Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 2:14:34 AM
It occurs to Milo that it might help the elves to have some instruction in remaining unseen amongst the elements. Particularly if they all plan on practicing archery in order to defend themselves. To this end, in addition to any other chores that he is happy to do, the halfling rogue works with the elves that are waiting to take their turn at target practice, on moving quietly and unseen.
K'Nara Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 8:37:47 AM OOC Note: I thought I'd had K'Nara tap Olana as the other "official" Emerald leader for the contingent of elves, her reasoning being that the elves were naturally expecting another elf to fill the second position and that Olana was a natural choice given her own affinity for hunting/archery.
~~ Jan~~ If Olana was a non-DM run character, I'd agree. But she isn't. Better that a player steps up. More fun for all. Or something. LOL
As the journey goes on, K'Nara found there was a bit of a "down side" to notoriety: many of the elves were in such awe of her, that they could barely speak their name and family affiliations, much less other details. Most of the elder elves didn't have that problem--in fact, they more or less considered K'Nara herself to be almost too young to be on such a trip (K'Nara's years numbered merely 21--an infant in Elven years!) However, she did manage to get most of the archers to talk to her...no doubt the seriousness of their impending mission impressed upon most of them the need to share what they had.
K'Nara took last watch, since she had to make sure that she was up at pre-dawn in order to go through her blade singer exercises. She was on hand to applaud Thaeri's presentation of her well-earned poultry meal.
The leader of the Talons took Lian to one side.
"Aeralia isn't used to such a march." she pointed out to the monk. "If she has no mount, I'd appreciate it if you could double up on Poki with her."
Falin Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:26:40 AM
As the evening continues on Falin will approach Er'eth, Al'thra, Ne'thrin, and Feld'he separately. Conveying to each of them that he would like them each to take charge of a smaller group of elves. Falin will let each of them know the other seven that will be in their group. He will try to learn something about each of the four leaders through the walk today. This is an effort to get to know them so he is more comfortable around them. Building that bridge of trust.
The next day when we are getting ready to leave Falin will let the 4 leaders know that he wants them to break up into their groups for the march today so they can get used to the smaller group. He will talk tactics today. He will want them to stay in columns of 2 with 4 ranks each. When they are firing on an enemy he wants them to line up in that same manner and then the next group will line behind them in the same manner. As everyone begins to fire the front group will get off a series of 4-6 shots. They will move to the back of the other three group and continue firing. Each group will take 4 -- 6 shots when they become the first group and then move back behind the others. This way we are keeping a safe distance back, but continuing to fire.
Falin will also thank Milo for the help. He stresses to the elves that if they are going to be able to take up positions hidden from the enemy that they still stay in proximity of their groups so they can continue to communicate. And to try to keep the layered tactics of falling back while others are firing going.
Lian Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:22:46 AM
Lian moves to Falin. "The students are doing well, are they not?" He puts a hand on an archers shoulder and gives him a nod.
In the evening, Lian is meditating when K'Nara approaches him. Not much rattles the hand of Domi out of a trance, but her suggestion is a virtual slap awake. "Um... W-what! Sure... sure, okay." His voice breaks, then a smirk creeps across his lips. "Is that an order?" His eyes twinkle.
Valdor d20+18=35 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:23:27 AM
The large warrior shows no signs of fatigue so far on the march. He seems to be rejuvenated for some apparent reason beyond the norm. He stays on his guard, but continues to march with the rest and lets others take rotations on his horse. He waits for Cori to tell him she's ready...
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 1:08:42 PM
This day Cori comes to find Valdor. She has been ready for casting this spell yesterday...but she had her reasons for not doing it. As she pulls up next to Valdor her eyes are haunted by ghostly images of what is to happen. "Today I cast the traveling spell and we will cover many leagues in short order." Her words hold a tinge of impatience but also a degree of concern for all involved. She glances back to the group of elves that follow them and shudders.
Amarth has been flying a recon mission over top of the group for the better part of the day. He knows his duties right now are to stay out of the way and give advance warning from the air. Now though he comes to rest upon his Mistress's shoulder and fluffs his wings. "I am ready Mistress." It is a rare thing to hear her familiar speak at all...but on occassion he does.
Pulling a bag of amber colored dust from her pants pocket she moves to an out of the way spot that is as flat as possible. Looking to the others she nods her head. "Noone can enter the circle or break my concentration." Drawing on a different set of words of power her voice drones out in her home language...drow. Walking a slow five foot circle she pours the dust out slowly upon the ground...which begins to glow with greater intensity as the words of power flow from her lips. Sweat beads upon her brow as she concentrates and channels energy into the dust that must be the anchor for this spell and then the last word of power is spoken. Slumping a little she now holds an empty bag in her left hand but the circle is glowing a bright amber but you notice that it is fading. "The portal to Izen is open...but noone must disturb the dust...step over it as you pass into the circle." Looking to Mordrid she motions him to her side as she moves to the side a little.
Looking to the rest as the prepare for the travel she shakes visibly. "Can you get a friend to disturb this sand after whe have passed through...otherwise the gate will remain open quite awhile." As she locks his eyes to judge his reaction to her request she tries to put at least part of his possible questions at rest. "Your animal friend will not be hurt as the spell will just be disrupted...not blow up or anything...it just makes the portal stop functioning." Her tummy rumbles but she pushes thoughts of food from her mind for now.
Amarth is the first to break the silence from his Mistress's shoulder. "Mistress, you must get something to eat and rest a little...strong magics are always draining for any wizard." This is just another time that he needs to remind his Mistress not to kill herself off from exhaustion.
[teleport circle - 240 minutes]
Mordrid Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 2:26:10 PM
Mordrid nods to Cori. He asks Gunther if his panther is staying or going, then decides to get a backup plan. He finds a squirrel and speaks to it soothingly. He asks it to dig into the sand, but only after all the people have disappeared. He then finds a small bird and does the same thing, just in case something has the squirrel for lunch before it can accomplish the task. If Gunther's panther stays behind, he'll ask the large cat handler to convince the panther to do the same.
He then watches around the circle to make sure no animals get close until the last have gone through. He will make sure he is last or close to last going through, since Valdor will undoubtably want to go through first to make sure the way is clear and safe.
CDM Jerry Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 3:08:04 PM
Last week's posting report for the Emerald Talons has not been placed on the Emerald Talon board or this one.
I will shut down this game after Friday 11:59PM if the report has not been placed on whichever board makes the most sense...ET board or this one.
Sorry, don't mean to be hard, but I am ensuring that a habit of posting the weekly reports is created.
Happy gaming!
~~Jan~~ Jerry, emailing you.
Aeralia Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 3:11:58 PM
Aeralia seems a little worse off the second day, not used to such forced travel. Though Terrin shows no sign of wear or worry, at times he just just outright stop for a few moments, though hurries quickly to catch up to his female friend.
At camp, Terrin again retires to bed immediately after rolling out his bedroll, without food or drink. Aeralia takes some time to relax and eat, apparently both physically and mentally tired, but after a hour or so she starts in on her training. Having realized that there were far to many individuals in the two groups to learn them all sufficiently, Aeralia changes her learning strategy. As the elven archers form up in groups of eight, so does Aeralia's squad of elven archers. The illusionary troupe is quite noticable as such at close ranges, lacking in defining details, but she does her best to make them realistic at longer ranges. She does her best to watch carefully as the elves continue thier practice, and cycles through the same ruitines with her duplicates. She burns through quite a few castings of her spells as she tests the boundries of her abilities, seeing just how far she can stretch out the area of her spell with projectiles, and how far out she can project her image, while still maintaining control, of both them, and the detail involved.
After a few hours, she retires sleepily to her bedroll.
...
The next morning, once she hears about the plan to teleport, Aeralia seems quite disturbed, glancing repeatedly towards Terrin.
"I...I don't think I can go..." she stammers lightly. "Well, I don't think Terrin can go...and I can't just leave him here." Terrin remains silent and still, offering no sort of explaination.
...
[OOC: About a score of Silent Images/Minor Images/Major Images and still versions of the spells as she practices with her 'elven squad']
Brother Bertram Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 3:22:51 PM
Bertram stays close to Nick and Ve, healing and just talking with everyone as they come to be treated. He isnt a leader and isnt pretending to be. He thinks more and more how enjoyable just doing what he was called to do really is.
Ve Mundr Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 5:14:26 PM
Ve flies on the carpet above the troop during the day's march. in the Evening he lands and links up with Bertram and Nick. Again Ve prefers powerful Mass curing spells to any other form of treatment for the those who are weary. He knows his place in this troop and he is still deciding exactly whom those charges will be. Cori begins creating the Teleportation circle, something Ve has done a few times himself and knowing it will take a moment or two he steps near Valdor. The Dragonstone will be the first through and he would be right beside him. As Cori completes the circle he gives Valdor a small nod, signifying his intent and steps into the circle pulling his warhammer...
Given Cori has done the scry I would say 3. my second choice would be 2. But this group will not be doing much on the QT which again brings me to choice 3.
K'Nara Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 6:56:51 PM
Smiling at the elven monk, K'Nara nodded.
"Yes, then, Lian..." she agreed, "You can always tell her that I 'ordered' you to do it." She took a few steps away from him, then paused and added:
"By the way, I noticed a couple of other things. First, Milo and Olana seem to be...making up for lost time. Second, the archers from the Culverwood really seem to honor you. So would you kindly consent to being Falin's second-in-command of the archers?"
OOC: I agree with Daniel K's/Ve's post--the groups are seeking the orc with the distinctive banner...the best place to look would be the place that Cori saw him in her scrying. If not there, then the location where the orc would likely have gotten the unique horse he rides.
Posting Report For Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 8:03:30 PM
Game # 1 Platinum and Game # 3 Emeral Talons For the week of July 24, 2006
Olana Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 8:19:01 PM
Olana is saddling the horses, when she hears Aeralia. Marching over there, all braids, blades and black leather, she perhaps seems a little abrupt and forceful, but her eyes hold no malice. It's a blunt, but honest question.
"Can't go?" her chin juts toward Terrin. "Why, what's up with him?"
Ingrge Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 9:41:45 PM
(I am back from Vacation, Yea!!! No wait Booo!!)
The weapon mage, surprisingly has been very pleasant to be around of late and he has been splitting his time working on casting spells through his staff, writing scrolls and hanging out with the elven archers, sending arrow after arrow dead center into most of the targets he aims for and helping Falin and Lian out where ever he can with the training. All the while he seems to be constantly humming or whistling a smile on his face even when his occasional arrow goes astray. Ingrge will volunteer to join Father Nicholas on his watch. During several evenings he goes off on his own and casts a few spells on himself.
(casting a few pemanency spells with other things)
Dahlia Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 9:47:52 PM
Spending a lot of time going around with Valdor, the little halfling agrees that the Talons do seem to be doing things the right way and for the right reasons. Now whether thay can make the hard choices, that may still need to be decided but... Out of the corner of her eye she catches sight of two Lians and is momentarily taken aback until she sees the newest Talon off to the side spell casting.
Dahlia offers to take a watch after Nick and with Brother Bertram, so as to find out what sort of dwarf he really is.
Nick Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:01:57 PM Blessed Alemi, watch over us on this day. Let your spirit lift us, let your wisdom guide our path.
Nick gets to his feet with the aid of his staff. He is getting the hang of that now, so it almost looks as though it's something he's always done. out of style rather than necessity. Looking around the rest of the group, he smiles to himself. He wasn't dead yet. He thanks Olana for saddling his horse, and assumes he'll travel through the portal in the middle of the group. If Ve hadn't have stepped up to the front, he would have. But he has no worries about Valdor being protected now. After all, we aren't exactly sure what we're going to step into...
Lian Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:26:13 PM
"If its an order." He says, smirking.
"Archers second in command? Sure, but I can not fire a bow."
Valdor Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:47:09 PM
Just before Cori casts her spell, Valdor says,"Let's set our destination at the horse breeder's area. Not too close. I'd like a scouting mission first, while the archers continue their practice. It's better to know your enemy before a fight and we'll get some information from the horse breeder about this orc and if he had a force with him, how he paid, if he was rude, and so forth. We can then pursue this orc the following day. Try to set us into an area with cover, if possible."
K'Nara Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 11:30:15 PM
K'Nara frowned, not quite agreeing with Valdor's decision--to her mind, the orc had not been seen as a direct threat, hence the groups should simply seek him out directly...yet she also had to concede that finding out more about this potential ally would only serve to strengthen their position as well, so she kept her tongue and agreed verbally with the leader of the Platinum Dragons.
She smiled at Lian's obvious eagerness to comply with her "order", but also said nothing about it out loud.
"Archer need to know the benefits of discipline." she told the monk. "You are a master at that. Besides, one never knows when an archer may suddenly come face-to-face with a threat...then their bow is no good. The basics of defending themselves may mean the difference for them between life and death."
Valdor Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:19:13 AM
Seeing K'Nara's frown, Valdor states,"Our archers clearly need more time to practice and it won't delay us much at all. For once, we have an advantage of surprise and I want to make the most of it."
He then shrugs his shoulders and heads out.
Milo Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:28:07 AM
Milo remains near the horses when Olana decides to confront Aeralia. Milo keeps half an eye on the situation to measure the reactions of those involved, even as he works with the saddles as best he can.
DM Jan Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:58:03 AM
Both Amarth the raven and Ve have detected no one following behind as the group have made their way east, and now, as the sun begins to rise -
In the midst of Cori's circle, the air seems to shift and bend. There is a slight gasp, as if someone draws a breath, and at once, a black vertical shaft appears, and splits, forming a large hoop, either end of it embedded in the ground. Within it, is a grey swirl that draws the eye and dizzies the mind. Like fog, it then drifts away, leaving a scene within, it's edges crackling with magic -
- the foreground is grass, then a broad pathway, and then the bank of a deep river. Beyond the river - a forest, deciduous trees, bearing lush foliage. Sounds drift throught the portal - moving water and the distant cries of birds. Black. Birds. Scents assail the nostrils - cool air, water, and wet grass.
The elves are lined up, rank and file as Falin has trained them. They look a little apprehensive, perhaps highlighting the fact that although magic was used, recognized, and was fairly common amongst adventuring groups, to an 'ordinary' Woldian, magic was a rare thing. And that portal...
The horses and Mordrid's bird and squirrel have similar misgivings, and goodness know what Gunther's big cat thought about it all.
The portal awaits.
(Assuming Valdor and Ve Mundr are first out.)
With the river straight ahead -
The broad path is a little soggy and looks well-traveled - lots of horse shoe indentations. Behind is an expanse of course ground that rises slightly, with plenty of shrubs. There is a narrower path very close to the river, following it's bank. That also carries evidence of horse traffic, in both directions,suggesting that perhaps horses are used to pull barges up the river.
To the left, the broad path heads south, alongside the river, with no visible discernable landmarks.
To the right, the broad path heads north, alongside the river, and there is a wooden sign hammered into the soft ground about twenty feet away. In common, the following words have been carved -
"Tears of the Wood Tavern" 2 mls
And underneath, a rough panel tacked on in orcish script that looks like it's been burned on to the woods surface -
FOOD ALE HORSES
Gunther Thursday August 3rd, 2006 1:40:18 AM
The warrior smiles as he tells Mordrid that the panther will be traveling with them. He watches in wonder as the man talks to the animals around him...something that he is only able to do with his kitty...and only thanks to the magical wreathes around their heads.
As the portal is opened, Gunther uses the magic of the the wreathes to speak with Thaeri, telling her that they need to travel through the dark hole and generally calming her anxieties about the process. Calling her to him, Gunther carries the lanky cat into the circle, warry of her accidentaly breaking the circle.
Lian d20-1=2 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 9:19:36 AM
"I didn't think about the discipline part of it." He smiles at thought.
Later he offers the ride to Aeralia. "Knara ordered me to offer you a ride." He puts on a front as if its taxing to ask her. (This isn't a Bluff because Knara DID order him. :))
Aeralia Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:27:33 AM
Aeralia looks a bit fearful, disappointed, and confused. "He... he... that sort of magic just won't work on him," she stammers when Olana questions, and Terrin takes a few steps back away from the portal and the others. "Do...do we really have to travel this way?" she asks almost retorically, knowing that they do.
"Go, Aeralia, they need you more then you need me," Terrin says calmly, "and you know that I can catch up quickly." Terrin then makes a single gesture and vanishes from sight, though his rapid footseps can be heard running off in the direction they had been travelling towards.
Aeralia seems to turn and follow his probable path, but after a few moments sighes heavily, and almost seems to shudder.
She remains a little flustered, nearly panicked, as she awaits her turn for the portal, but will step through quickly and silently.
...
Later, through the portal when Lian offers her a ride, she blinks a moment, then nods once. "Oh, okay," she says in a near whisper, but does as ordered, and takes his hand to slide into position behind Lian.
To start, she almost seems to shudder at the physical contact with Lian, doing her best to remain as far away from him on the mount (not that thats possible), almost quivering in anxiety, or perhaps fear. Once the get moving on the road, she does start to calm down a little, though seems to remain a little distracted.
"I hope Terrin catches up quickly," she says softly, mostly to herself, turning in the saddle to glance behind them.
Brother Bertram Thursday August 3rd, 2006 2:53:12 PM
Bertram follows along, somewhat saddened this leg of the journey is ending.
Olana Thursday August 3rd, 2006 7:51:09 PM
"She's a bit of an odd one, is that one," Olana whispers to Milo after watching Aeralia's strange companion disappear. "Right, lets get this horse through without disrupting the circle."
Ingrge / Dahlia d20+29=46 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 9:45:35 PM
Ingrge moves along with the rest as they move. At night sometimes it seems as though his eyes have a blue glow about them, though he doesn't seem to be effected by it in any way. As they move on he goes with the archers and when they all stop moves forwrd and watches as Cori does her thing trying to see ecactly what she is doing and casting. Spell craft DC 46
********
Riding along with Valdor, Dahlia keeps thinking about all that has been going on and the visions that have been happening around her of late. She had never had anything so real appear to her when she was actually running her gypsy troupe and it was starting to bug her. She liked things simple and straight forward and things were anything but these days. After awhile she shakes her head and speaks up.
So Valdor, Do you ever think about retiring from adventuring? I mean settling down somewhere and just watching the world go by? I mean how nice would it be to know that you were actually going to be able to know where you were going to be day to day? And to know you were going to get to spend as much time as you wanted with people of your own choosing?
Corialote and Amarth Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:39:59 PM
Cori is the next to last through as she nods to Mordrid right before she steps over the dust and into the black hole.
Coming out on the other side she is happy with the success of her spell and hopes that everything works out on the other side. It should not be too difficult if the dust is disturbed. "I hope that the animals with do what Mordrid asked...I know it is strange and unnatural to them." Glancing to the sign she looks to Valdor with a smile. "A bed and a hot bath?" She would not mind a little trip to this inn of sorts.
Jan, will add a spell list here by tomorrow including the spell she just cast.
Falin Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:42:28 PM
Falin is a bit aprehensive about stepping at first. "We will all come out at the same spot, right? Last time I did something like this I ended up in a not so nice place for almost a year. Fighting to survive for my life." He closes his eyes and steps.
On the other side he immediately scans in all directions, force of habit. And moves over to where everyone else is. Not seeing any trees he realizes how visible they all are with such a large group.
He will watch the groups of archers come through and form back up into their groups on the other side.
Walking over to Lian, Flain will say, "I would still like to work on some archery again tonite, but I would like it if you could show them some hand to hand combat. I am not good at that at all and I would like them to be somewhat rounded."
That evening he will focus more on concentration while firing. He walks over to Aeralia and asks, "My lady, could you provide a distraction for me this evening? I want to see how the archers do under a stressfull situation. While they are getting ready to fire this evening would you have somehting begin to charge them? I want to see if they remain and fire like I have taught them or if they panic and loose their composure."
If he has to he will pick up clumps of dirt and other non-lethal projectiles and throw them at the groups as they fire. He will then watch as Lian works them through some lessons.
Milo Thursday August 3rd, 2006 10:57:10 PM
Milo smiles widely at his beloved, "It takes all kinds love... all kinds." Milo follows up with a quick kiss, and then assists Olana with ushering the horse through the portal. "We could cover his eyes as we all go through."
Gunther Thursday August 3rd, 2006 11:22:02 PM
Passing through the portal, Gunther seeks out K'nara. "Miss K'nara...if ve find de orcs, please consider allowing me to talk vith dem. I am orc, after all, and maybe dey vould react differently to me as de vould to von of you." The cat trainer shrugs his large shoulders. "It's just a tought. Let me know if you need me."
Valdor Friday August 4th, 2006 12:46:22 AM
While quicly looking around with Ve and Dahlia, before the others come through, Valdor replies to Dahlia,"Yes, I do. Often, in fact. However, I am in my prime and the Wold needs us. I suppose my body will tell me when I can't keep up one day. I try not to think about it too much, as I always have weird feelings about it. I wasn't made like most others. Being a husband and father holds appeal, but I've travelled and fought for so long, I don't know if I could handle the consistancy."
He laughs at the irony of it. When the elves come pouring through, he motions them to a location off the path and under the cover of trees.
He breathes a sigh of relief when Cori and Mordrid come through. He counts everyone to make sure that noone was left behind on accident.
After Cori makes her statement, He smiles mischievously and replies,"If you insist, although there will be a lot of people talking, my dark skinned wizardess." He watches her reaction before chuckling. No need to irritate her too badly and end up as a frog or something worse.
After he makes sure everyone is through and hidden well, he calls for the Talons and Dragons to meet. He simply says,"While I don't ever like to split up a party...of any kind...I think we should choose a handful of us to go to the Inn and find out information. Gunther is a must. I can cover my armor with a cloak and move my sword onto my hip. Nick's white robes would stick out, so he should stay. Ve's armor would make him stand out, as well. Cori and Dahlia would be fine. Mordrid would, as well. The thing we don't want, is to look like a formidable group of adventurers showing up out of nowhere. We really want to look like travellers. I can't speak for the Talons, so, K'Nara, you choose who will go. Besides, there is still much training to be done and we shouldn't need any healing, but some of the elves might that were marching. We leave in one half of an hour."
Nick Friday August 4th, 2006 12:49:22 AM
Noting a little apprehension here and there, Nick does his best to assure, and keep everything positive and calm. He'll assist wherever, and be one of the last ones through, too.
Once he's through - "This is a well traveled road, by the looks of it." He looks to the south and the other side of the river. South west was Aisildur..
Mordrird Friday August 4th, 2006 12:53:13 AM
Mordrid adds,"I will help with any training and scout the forest while you all are gone. No need for us all, but leave the teleport ring with me in case you need help. Contact us by earpiece.
Oh yeah, Ve, I picked this up before we left. It was one of Joe's. He made a few extras."
He walks over to the cleric and motions for him to sit. He pokes the sharp point through the clerics earlobe and shows him how to work it. It appears he is enjoying the sight of a cleric with a dangling earring. Or is it the pain he's inflicting...hard to tell.
He looks at Valdor and says,"If your mind is set on going without the whole group, be careful. These are not the same kind you are used to dealing with brother. Call me and we will be there."
He scouts the area until they have been gone for an hour, then heads back to camp to be close to eveyone else, just in case they call for help.
(Jim, does Cori have one yet? If not, he would have grabbed one for her as well.)
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