Meeting at the Gate d20=17 d20+8=25 d20+10=19 d20+11=31 d20+10=30 d20+12=13 Thursday August 24th, 2006 5:16:51 PM
The eight men and women are all dressed in heavy furs, most have wooden shields and simple weapons such as a heavy mace. Standing at the gate, all of them are making final adjustments and under the layers of furs all can be seen wearing leather, or similar non metallic armor. Each has what looks to be a mini-sled linked to their waist with a small stock pile of fur. All know them to be hunting sleds and likely are carrying some extra food and small provisions. Each has a Bivowac style shelter that Nauthiz'Ull and Aiden are very familiar with. The Party uses larger group structures that can accommodate 4 in comparrison to the 2 man 'fur-coffin' as some refer to them as. They are not for everyone. Missile fire ranges from short spears, to javelins to the set of long bows that Brynj and Hord carry. Hord also carries a Greatsword.
Bohdi answers to the negative on flying spells, maybe with a bit more research, the study of gravity and the mechanics of flight for other objects and it would all come together for him. But right now, the wizard defers to Garret.
Neco, Aiden and Dregar all wait patiently as everyone assembles, each looking forward to marching into the unknown in their own ways. One of the women steps over to Neco, "May I?" and starts to make a few adjustments in position to some of the over furs. Neco has learned much, but she has not perfected the seemingly hundreds of small details in the positions of every little piece of clothing to help keep the deadly cold away. Aiden takes a few strides out the southern gate and quickly eyes out the trail. The Twin Tusks village used to lie east of Ice Peak, maybe 7 days across the tundra, but the Tusk has always been nomadic and Aiden has not been there in years. It could be literally anywhere. The trail heads south, but may turn beyond the hundred or so yards that Aiden can pick off from here.
Garrett looks at the assembled party of 13 that he will apparently be leading as they stand at the southern gate. The big question is as it always is, protection from the cold. That is a difficult one if magic is to be used by everyone. His second, the distance to the Tusk village no one precisely knows. General consensus is it could not be overly far. The Tuskans surely could not have too far of a reach. Questions begin to surface if anything is known of the food supply the dead raiders had left as that would offer insight, assuming the raiders intended to go home again. The eldest three, Brynj, Hrafn and Hjord all nod in agreement as Garret puts a kabosh on regular fires. "We have our deep gear, does any know the protective gear stowed that the Raiders brought?"
There is also consensus among them on Garret NOT using all the powers at his disposal to ward off the Cold. As Hrafn puts it "We all know the risks and have all been in the deep before." Brynj, Hrafn and Hjord are older, but certainly not elders as they are all in their mid 30's. All eight of the men and women of the tracking party seem to not be shy when it comes to answering when asked.
Nauthiz'Ull is last to arrive with his wolf and volunteers her to assist.
The morning is quite cold and Nauthiz'Ull and several others spend a few moments gauging the sky. Thord and Hrafn begin a small side conversation based on the tracks and local geaography they know to lie to the south. "Possibly they used the Kyrelis Tail' "Likely but we follow and see' 'but is would cut many hours even if they did not use it.'
Knowledge Geography DC 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {the formation is a thin and relatively short ice canyon about 4 miles south east. Fairly hard to find unless you have been there. (This check assumes that as well) The canyon runs roughly east for about 7 miles. The only non magical assisted exits would be each end of the canyon. }
Neco Thursday August 24th, 2006 10:37:01 PM
Neco is startled when the woman closes on her, but when she simply adjusts the rogue's clothing, the girl relaxes, and lets the woman do up the garments properly.
Without waiting for the cleric's direction, the small human moves up near the front of the line. If she gets any funny looks from the elders, she will say, "I, Neco Tactus svienn Lleya may not know where we are going or how to find it, but I can't protect you from traps from the back of the line!"
While waiting for the signal to depart, the rogue wonders if the people the party seeks keep much treasure.
Bohdi Nackle Thursday August 24th, 2006 11:10:43 PM
"I could try to instruct you, wunjo," Bodhi answered Nautiz'Ull. "But my magical arts are trained and learned, not born of the wild."
"To tell the truth, mate, the one to train you is ...." the gnome shrugged toward Neco.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+6=15 d20+9=24 d20+5=20 d20+12=32 Friday August 25th, 2006 10:46:47 AM
Hearing the chatter between Thord and Hrafn, Nauth nods at the mention of Kyrelis Tail. He has been there once, with Ull'Heimdall...
The morning's clouds hid the sun completely; the air was more damp than normal and the grey-cast tinge that held all snow and ice extended past the hawk's vision. A tall man garbed in several different yet fine pelts was stringing his bow and smoothing out the flights of his arrows. A small boy, roughly nine, runs up and pats the aged man on the back. "I am ready father. Those tracks we saw this morning, what were they of?" Stroking a well groomed beard that hugged the tanned man's jaw, icy blue eyes stared down at his son. "I am not sure Nauth. I have never seen such tracks before; that is why we go." That day, although dark by most's standard, shed light on many intersting lessons for the young human, soon to be ranger. Trudging through ice-pack and snow they reached a place that the father called Kyrelis Tail. "We will not journey through the chasm. This place hold countless opportunities for ambush, traps and complete death. perhaps another time we will find whatever has made these tracks."
The present blurs back into Nauth's eyes, a sadness oozes over his body and his shoulder slump under its weight.
"I have been to Kyrelis Tail before...once. You can be certain that the Tuskers, if they came by way of it, will have an ambush or traps waiting for us. Enormous icewalls lend to an attack from above...a shooting trap to be more precise...iceslides and cave ins could be set up as well. Neco, we will need your skills if the Kyrelis Tail is the way we take."
Nauth turns his head to the sound of his wunjo's voice. As the gnome, overstuffed with furs and gear and looking more like a plump furball than the slender gnome that he is, he gets the 'hint' and sucks his teeth. Nodding back in an "I already knew that" sort of way, Nauth turns and steps over to Aiden.
"Our girls shall be of great assistance to us this trip. I have a couple of potions, wunjo, that will allow me to talk to the pups if need be. I plan on using them for emergencies, but I will be asking this fine girl here what she prefers to be called during that time. Would you like for me to do the same for your babe?"
Nauth will explain what he can if Aiden is curious and it will occupy his time until steps are made on the trail.
As soon as Garret deems the group ready to move out, the lithe human will stride to the front, with his pup and begin scouring the ground for signs of the Tuskers. Focusing all of his past lessons with Ull'Heimdall, Nauth seems a veritable fountain of knowledge as to what may be upcoming. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Know:Geo.15 Know:Nat.24 Prof:Hunt.20 Survival.32 [NAT20!]
Dregar Friday August 25th, 2006 11:43:14 AM
Dregar waits inpatiently to get into the wild. he looks around,and eyes everyone there. He knew deep down that some of these people wouldn't be coming back. That is the way war is though, he thought to himself. He just made sure to kill enough orks to cover those who fell beside him.
Once headed out, he falls into line where told to go. Not his usuall style, he waits to here from Aiden as what to do.
DM Addendum Friday August 25th, 2006 11:55:36 AM
More stuff everyone knows:
Next few days of weather look to be partly cloudy and pretty cold. This should not pose a problem for any in proper gear. There is a constant wind on the tundra of about 8-15 mph. Tracks are of 3 approaching large wolves at the south gate. A single running humanoid and single running large wolf trail heads south, complete with blood trail. Only the Leader and a single Wolf actually jumped the south wall at the battles end. The others went over the north and east walls. They may link up further out but from here none can see thier tracks.
Anyone already posted can post again. I will be putting another post today as well.
Aiden Friday August 25th, 2006 12:27:48 PM
(OOC: sorry clicked on send privately to gm)
Aiden's brow furrows as he analyzes the tracks. Not only is he looking at direction, but numbers (and if they are wounded). Some (almost all) of the Tuskers fully believed in survival of the fittest, and if they saw one of their fellows wounded, would kill him instead of allowing him to survive (and lead others back via a blood trail). Others would seek the thrill of honorable death by leading the ambushes.
Hearing the discussion about Kyrelis Trail, Aiden's thoughts, momentarily, turned towards the layout of that area, or at least, what he could remember.
~good sight for avalanche or an attack from the sides. That or shut both ends and pin within the canyon.~ His thoughts turned towards the chieftain and the recent attack, ~if something is using each side against the other, or if there are spies, it is definite that a trap or ambush is set. We need something to surprise them...push up our time to reach the canyon...~
And then a wry smirk began to appear on his face, ~or have Bohdi cast his spell of hiding upon Nauthiz and have him fly upwards to scout. They would not expect such tactics...~
Garrett Saturday August 26th, 2006 9:48:32 AM
"We will follow the tracks and see where they lead. Should they enter Kyrelis Trail we will have to come up with something to counter the ambush I am sure they have laid for us. Either that, or go around."
(With everyone having the necessary food and cold weather gear we would set out, and discuss the rest as we walk.)
Aiden and Neco, you have point. Let's see if your wolf can track as well as you Aiden. Neco, you are on trap watch.
"Let's make sure we do this safe and smart. I don't want to have to tell anyone's families that they have not returned."
Unless any of the other volunteers wish to be protected from the cold, Garrett will keep the 6 of us wunjo's protected from the cold with endure elements. That will leave me holding back one for emergencies, or to convert to healing. Garrett is more than happy to do any six who feel they may need it. He would pass on his should someone else wish to be protected.
Spells: 0 lvl: CMW, Light x2, Mending, Detect Magic 1st lvl: Endure Elements x3, Endure elements, Magic Weapon(d),(plus pearl) 2nd lvl: Hold Person x2, Spiritual Weapon, Bulls Strength(d)
Next Moves Saturday August 26th, 2006 10:34:28 AM Neco moves up to the point, where Aiden Brynj, Thord and Hrafn currently stand in discussion on the trail and possible use of the canyon. They are all presently discussing the possible traps and ambushes lying in wait. The rogue does note with satisfaction that none look to her as she moves with anything other than acceptance.
Nauthiz'Ull engages Aiden about the wolves and of his potions which allow them to talk directly to the wolves, if Aiden wished.
Aiden is more concerned with what may lie ahead and why the Tuskers do not seem to be behaving as they should. Survival of the fitess. The strong rule the weak and the injured are left for dead and none on a raid should be allowed to leave a blood trail. But right in front of him was precisely that.
The suggestion is also made of a split group to conceal not only direction but of numbers. The people with the party are split on the idea. 'We know they moved at great speed from the village, and many are hurt.' 'Tuskers are without honor and would lie in wait' 'Perhaps we should circle Ice Peak to see if there is another trail?' 'We should stay together, there is no one in Ice Peak that would collaberate with Tusker scum'
The wolves sniff about and paw at the ground nervously near the tracks of the larger wolves the Tuskers rode.
There are many thoughts and ideas a course of action is needed.
Aiden d20=11 d20=20 d20=19 Saturday August 26th, 2006 12:29:40 PM
Aiden looked curious as Nauthiz had brought up the potions, "Strange magics those..." he grumbled. "I still do not trust whoever makes them..."
"But if you say they work wunjo...then they do." A small smile appeared on his face, he looked down at his unkempt wolf by his side, "she will let me know when she feels that she has earned it. And then we will find out the name of our little sister."
(OOC: hopefully this is done BEFORE Neco comes within hearing range)
Aiden then looks over Nauthiz' shoulder towards Neco. And in a small voice (trying to keep it to just Nauthiz hearing), he playfully commented, "Full of fire isn't she wunjo? You two are more similar then you give either credit for..." He then did something highly unlike Aiden's usual reserved self, "Whale fat'll help stop burns..." and gave a wink.
(OOC: yes it is crude, but hopefully within woldian guidelines...but hey...he grew up with orcs)
Hearing Garrett, he moved over for his directions (and to get away from Nauthiz arms from snatching him).
"Ready Garrett..." he pronounced to Garrett, a smile on his face, or was it a small smirk of good humor?
"Track with pack..." Aiden barked in a gruff voice to the wolf. The order was for the wolf to track, but stay close to the group (or pack in wolf terms).
track: 11 + 8 = 19
Knowledge (geography): 20 + 6 = 26 (+ 2 synergy to avoid above ground hazards would make that a 28)
Survival: 19 + 8 = 27
Neco d20+5=23 d20+5=22 d20+7=19 Saturday August 26th, 2006 8:57:41 PM
Neco moves towards Aiden, and spots him talking to Nauth. Getting closer she tries to listen in on the conversation. The young woman narrows her eyes, looks to the two males in disgust, and spits into the snow. "Men" She thinks to herself as she moves on without the ex-twin tusker. Finding a long stick (or a spear from one of the village warriors) the rogue starts jabbing into the snow in front of her and sifts though it. Looking for anything out of the ordinary she calls back to Aiden, "Are you coming or what?"
--Actions--
[Spot]-[23] [Listen]-[22] [Detect traps]-[19]
Aiden (second) Sunday August 27th, 2006 12:55:49 AM
Grinning at Nauthiz, "see..." as if to prove his correctness, "fire..."
Chuckling (in a good humored way), he made his way towards the area that Garrett wanted him to lead. Even as he passed by Neco, he paused for a moment, "sometimes it is good to show what cannot be seen, especially to the new tribe, no?" His eyes (and head movements) moved in a nodlike fashion towards the other hunters. (ooc: non-npc)
~She does not like it, but now the men have seen that she is more than just a woman. That she can take care of herself, and is as strong as any of them. And that she will help us on our journey instead of distracting them...~
Shaking his head as he maintained his small smirk, ~though she is an interesting wench, though much different than I have ever dealt with. I am curious what the wunjos thinks...~
Bohdi Nackle Sunday August 27th, 2006 6:45:58 PM
"Many shadows," Bohdi said in acknowledgment of Garrett's protective magic. He had unconsciously adopted the patter of the Sargrass, as he often did when he was distracted. Nauthiz'Ull and Neco's sparring had reminded him of another female, a gnome, far away somewhere across the tundra.
Was she alive? Was she safe? Was she, like he, off on another mission of rescue and salvation? Or was she beyond saving herself?
She had mentioned to him once that she had visited Gargul. Had she done so again? Would he ever know? Would he see her alive? Or would it take his own personal trip to Gargul to see her again?
"Save the child--or see Gargul trying," Bohdi muttered to Squork, stroking the bird's feathers. "Either way, maybe we find some answers." He glanced enviously at Dregar, then walked over to pat the dwarf's shoulder in comradeship.
"Save the child, or see Gargul trying, eh?" Bohdi grinned. "I think I'm beginning to see the Wold through your eyes a bit, mate."
ooc: back from vacation and able to receive e-mails and focus on game issues again
Nauthiz'Ull Sunday August 27th, 2006 10:15:08 PM
Caught flat footed by Aiden's brash remark, Nauth cannot decide to hide a laugh or choke his fellow ranger. There is something changing in his wunjo and it settles well within.
"Checking around the wall would not be a bad idea. Or push until we find the White One."
Whatever direction Garrett commands, Nauth will attempt to take point with his pup; together they should be a very efficient tracking machine.
Garrett Monday August 28th, 2006 9:39:32 AM
Garrett looks around at the bantering and apparently somewhat happy group.
"Much more pleasant than the last time we went out into the Tundra they are" He thinks to himself. "And much more dire the mission."
Garrett listens to the various opinions as to which trail to follow.
"The blood trail is easier to follow is it not? If any trail leads us to a trap, this is the one. If there is a trap, there are also tuskers, and information that we could dearly use. And, a trap is a trap only if the prey walks into it."
"I think it wisest that we follow the trail of blood made by the orc leader. I do not see any of the others being able to kill him, and we may gain time if he stops to tend his wounds. We should expect a trap. We just have to find it ahead of time, and find a way to make the trappers become the prey."
Spells: 0 lvl: CMW, Light x2, Mending, Detect Magic 1st lvl: Endure Elements x3(cast x3), Endure elements, Magic Weapon(d),(plus pearl) 2nd lvl: Hold Person x2, Spiritual Weapon, Bulls Strength(d)
Nauthiz'Ull Monday August 28th, 2006 10:40:07 AM
As his fearless leader states his intent on what to persue at the current time, the deeply tanned young man nods, icy eyes flash anticipation, and he pulls the mottled light grey and white hood over his head. Knowing that a purely white outfit is sometimes best on the tundra, Nauth did not have the money or the skill to take down enough pure white wolves or polar bears to solve this particular dilema; his cloak and fur gear is decent, the grey mottling is of a lighter shade and the white is still almost half of the coloring.
Nauth will continue to help the group with the tracking and will check on his pup to make sure she is doing alright. As she whimpers to the scent of the worg Nauth smacks her hind quarters instantly. "No fear girl. You are stronger, smarter and more brave then those tainted stock. No fear girl."
Morning, the First Day Monday August 28th, 2006 2:10:24 PM
Some banter is exchanged between Nauthiz'Ull and Aiden and Neco manages to overhear enough to decide she was slightly offended as she moves by them. There are a few chuckles from some of the others as well and one other overheard comment, 'That boy is in serious trouble.' Aiden pats his wolf and she moves ahead with her sister at a slow trot to about 10 yards before both turn to look back to see if the group is following them. Garret casts his spells of protection upon each of the group. Several of the other hunters with the group are seen giving small shakes of their head, but nothing is said. Brynj, Hrafn and Hjord stand stoically through it all and none appear to jump in on anything currently being bantered about. Garret listens with a bit of a smile on his face. The mood is certainly more upbeat even though the mission more dire. A sign that his wunjos' confidence is higher in themselves and each other. With the wolves, Neco Aiden and Nauthiz'Ull all moving to the front, Brynj and the others fall in line behind, eyes almost locked on the man or woman walking but two paces in front of them. They don't speak and their movements very purposeful. None is wasting extra energy where they don't have to.
The wolves move ahead easily and easy too is the trail to follow. So close in to Ice Peak there is little in the way of natural hazards. The wind blows, the snow sweeps across in a haze of white, but the apparent mad run from Ice Peak leaves a deep trail not easily removed by the wind. After several hundred yards the solo booted trail ends in a small scurry of wolf prints. The continuing run of the wolf is slightly shorter of gait and sinks even heavier into the snow. The group of 13 continues and soon enough evidence of the blood trail disappears. About 200 yards further, four more wolves join the original track set and all continue at what is likely full speed, arrow straight for Kyrelis Tail, which is now about 1 mile away. The group continues as does the wind and blowing snow about the feet and thighs of all. To the horizon of North, East and West is naught but a blurred white and grey. Looming South are the mountains, jagged blocks of black and blue, marking the long western arm of the Jagged Jaw mountains.
The sharp eyes and knowledge of the area assist the Aiden and Nauthiz'Ull as they approach the Kyrelis Tail. Like a sword slash through the snow and ice it lies before the collective group. The devastation from the massive eruption some months before have altered the once pure white crevice. A thick band of black now can be seen in the veins of various whites. The overhang is greater now and perhaps the channel is a bit more narrow, but it is very clear to the wolves and the trackers that the Tuskan riders went down into the crevice.
Posting Report -- ADM Kup Monday August 28th, 2006 3:17:20 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of August 21-August 25 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...x...x...x Bohdi-Kup............x...x...x...x...x Nauthiz'Ull-Drew...x...x...x...x...x Garrett-Chris.........o...x...x...x...x Aiden-Paul............x...x...x...x...x Neco-James..........x...x...x...x...x Dregar-Shawn.......x...o...x...x...o x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --DM Friday post this week came on Saturday.
Bohdi Nackle Monday August 28th, 2006 10:30:13 PM
Bohdi stared with amazement at the looming crevasse.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=29 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 11:32:46 AM
Walking, foot in front of foot, Nauth peers through the drift gusts and watches as the Tail begins to overshadow the horizon.
"This place is different than I remember it. It seems that the tragedy of the eruption has left its mark on the higher levels. It's quite beautiful really, if you look at it."
Stopping and waiting for the group to collect the young ranger tries to figure out the safest way through (as in different scouting tactics, not different ways through the one-passage ice chasm).
Nauth scans the treacherous overhangs above and nods to the known dangers. Ull'Heimdall has taught him not only about the bow and the hunt but about the powers of the Vein and the biggest danger is the Vein itself.
Looking around at the other hunters Nauth nods to each, "What are your thoughts?" After hearing each of them express their thoughts Nauth turns to the young Human girl; "Neco, You are familiar with traps, are you not? Your knowledge on such things could aid in mine and Aiden's knowledge of the natural dangers through the tail."
Looking back to the cleric of Domi, the fur-clad head of the young man cocks to the side. "What'll you have us do?"
Garrett Tuesday August 29th, 2006 2:09:02 PM
"If a trap awaits us, it awaits us in there. I say we should go around. Some of us know where it ends. If there are tracks coming out at the other end, we continue to follow them. If there are none, then we go in, but from the other side. Where we are not expected."
"I have my opinions, but I am far from the most experienced among us. I will lead the group, but if anyone has a better idea, or disagrees with what I am thinking."
Garrett waits to hear the ideas or suggestions of others.
Aiden d20=20 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 4:48:36 PM
Aiden took a moment to survey the sides of the canyon. His eyes looked for small things, such as the possibility of a game trail, where a person could go from above and scout.
(OOC: not sure what I'd roll here...Knowledge (geography)? DOH!!! Holy )*#@$)@#*!! a natural 20...)
He allowed the others to speak even as Aiden winced his eyes to try and make out what he THOUGHT he saw (ooc: since he may or may not see something).
Again, his thoughts went to Squork, and the possible use of the raven flying above (and only above) to see if anything is nearby. Then a smile appeared, "Bohdi...if you cast the spell of invisibility on Squork, would that provide him enough safety to see if anything lies in wait for us near the entrance or into the trail?"
knowledge (geography): 20 + 6 = 26
Kyrelis' Tail Tuesday August 29th, 2006 5:05:18 PM
Bohdi and several others look at the crevice and back towards not only Garret, but the other more experienced hunters. They all seem to share a similar look of apprehension in thier eyes. Nauthiz'Ull speaks to Neco about her using her personal skill sets to spot any un natural traps that may have been set to compliment Aiden and his own skills to not blunder into a natural dangers.
Garret on the other hand simply feels they group should skirt the whole thing. After all they know where it opens at the other end and they could be there by nightfall. If tracks emerge than they continue following, if not. Then enter from the back door so to speak.
The general group of the hunters agrees with Garret. It is pointed out that they will lose some time, but that is offset by not missing something and being buried. The risk against reward seems a bit slanted for following the trail in.
Aiden mentions perhaps an invisibilty spell and Squork could make a quick scouting. The bird would certainly not trigger any natural disasters and as an invisible flyer should not be caught in any Tusker trap.
Clarification on Kyrelis Tail: the mountains to the south are still a considerable distance away. the crevice is a split inthe tundra withthe ground being essentially flat for miles about it. kinda like a sink hole.
Neco d20+5=21 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 11:37:02 PM
Neco moves forward checking the path occasionally for any unfriendly gifts that the fleeing orcs may have left behind? Without looking back at the dark skinned ranger, or stopping her scan of the trail, the light skinned rogue responds to his question. Only vaguely informing the boy she answers "Traps? Ya, I know a thing or two about them."
[Search]-[21]
OOC: Neco is only scanning and lightly sifting the ground not taking time to turning everything over.
Bohdi Nackle d20+7=26 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 11:48:35 PM
"Aye, he could at that, Aiden," Bohdi affirmed, with a pleased--and surprised--look evident on his face. "Squork could fly invisibly into the Tail and scout for us, then return and report. But the spell would not last long--just 4 counts of sixty--and so he would not be able to scout very far--perhaps a thousand paces--before he would have to return. We would have to be close to the Tail to permit him to enter any significant distance. And we'd be relying on his bird's-eye view of things, which we all know is limited by his meager intellect." The bird glared daggers at his master, but said nothing.
"But if the group wishes it, I'll gladly do it!" The gnome beamed at the tall ranger.
ooc: For clarity's sake-- "counts" = seconds "counts of sixty" = minutes "four counts of sixty" = 4 minutes "paces" = yards or meters At a base speed of 40' flying, "run" speed = 160'/round = 1600'/minute = 3200'/2 minutes = ~ 1000 yards or meters Spot check for Squork, if needed -- 26!
Nauthiz'Ull Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:55:13 AM ooc; I thought taht the Tail was through a mountain pass. Nauth would have most assuredly suggested skirting it if we remain on the tundra and not climbing through the mountains. I pictured it as coming to an almost flat-walled cliff rising above us and the Tail being split through it....my bad.
The ranger strokes the more present stubble on his jaw and sides of his mouth. He nods at the confirmations that the group should take the chance of losing time instead of losing lives.
As Aiden mentions the use of magic, no, suggests the use of magic, Nauth raises an eyebrow in a suprised yet impressed manner. "That is cunning wunjo. You are the ulf in many ways."
Kneeling down to his pup, Nauth whispers into her ear; "Listen girl, take that scent and look for it over there. Remember the putrid, musty, sweaty, dirty scent and find it over there." Nauth points to the left of the Tail and scratches the ulf along the jaw.
"The ulfs may be able to find a scent; perhaps the Tuskers have a secondary unit that have been here for several days. They should be able to scout ahead of us and find out if this is true. When we have skirted enough of the Tail then maybe the bird can fly to the end and let us know what awaits us there?"
Garrett Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:00:52 AM
"The invisible Squork is a good idea, but since it doesn't last too long it may be wisest to save the spell should we need to go in the other end. What has or has not come out the other end is the concern."
"Aiden, can you tell how many have entered the crevice? If so, let us remember that so we may know the numbers we see exiting the other side."
Garrett makes to move on, scouting around the tomb of a crevice, gesturing for Aiden and Neco to once again take point. "It will cost us some time, but the cost is not greater than the risk of entering."
Spells: 0 lvl: CMW, Light x2, Mending, Detect Magic 1st lvl: Endure Elements x3(cast x3), Endure elements, Magic Weapon(d),(plus pearl) 2nd lvl: Hold Person x2, Spiritual Weapon, Bulls Strength(d)
Dregar d20+6=10 Wednesday August 30th, 2006 4:54:18 PM
The dwarf remains where he is in the line. His breath rolls out in great billowing clouds and frosts his beard. The sun was glaring down on them and he looks about the distant tundra for signs of life, or anything at all more than the dizzying blanket of white. Light dazzled and glinted off the ice and the blanket mirage that was always so prevlavent in the open yielded none of its secrets. "No good cause to follow them into their hole. I too say we skirt the crevice, see if they came out the far end."
Skirting Kyrelis' Tail Wednesday August 30th, 2006 5:08:05 PM
Squork and invisibility is dicussed, but at length the drawbacks of duration and not having the spell at the other end of the crevice when combat could be close at hand, overshadow the decission for Garret. 'Press throught the slower route, not risk entombment and save the spell.' As all other things, magical resources are precious in the wilds of Ice Vien.
Aiden, Nauthiz'Ull the wolves and Hrafn examine the last few meters entering the Tail. It does not appear they met any reserve units. The tracks continue at a near reckless pace into the crevice. 6 wolves, likely 4 with riders.
The general group of the hunters agrees with Garret. It is pointed out that they will lose some time, but that is offset by not missing something and being buried. The risk against reward seems a bit slanted for following the trail in. After a few more brief discussions, Aiden, Neco and Nauthiz'Ull begin to skirt Kyrelis' Tail. The group pushes more directly eastward giving the formation a wide berth of about 100 yards.
The snow is slightly deeper and gives under the weight of the humans moving across it far more readily than before. The wind is constant from the east and snaps at bits of fur as ice forms from clinging and packed snow to the bits of the ends. Clouds move across the sky to the west as well high above and pathces of brilliant blue can be seen regularly, but the sun never seems to find one. Midday comes and goes and pushing through the break of 6-12 inches of snow brings the hint of complaint from the leaders muscles after several hours.
Neco, Aiden and Nauthiz make Fortitude saves DC 15 failure indicaties fatigue.
I am assuming the rest are following the plow lines so to speak. The wolves do not break through as much and do not have teh same issue.
Garrett Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:46:10 PM
Garrett follows along in the trail made by the group leading the way. Remembering that leading the way in deep snow often caused one to tire very quickly, Garrett suggests rotating the front three amongs the entire group.
"Let's take turns forging the trail. We know where we are going, so it's not paramount at this point that our trackers lead."
Garrett would like to rotate a different four up front every hour that we walk. That will give everyone at least only 1 hour forging the trail for every three we travel.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:50:19 PM
Bohdi trudged along happily behind Aiden. Delighted with his companion's newfound interest in things magical, Bohdi kept up a steady stream of banter directed at the ranger's back. "Have I told you, mate, about the Reduce Person spell? Now, there's many as don't know the virtues of being properly sized, having suffered with being over-big so long in their lives. But once you try things from a gnomish view, there's no seeing things any other way again. 'Right-sized is right-minded,' as my teacher Master Hornswaggle used to say. Now, you take the Locate Object spell, for instance . Not handy in a fight, I'll grant. But, now, I ask you--if you need to find your mother's spectacles in an ice storm, which spell would you most want to pull from your pouch? Eh?"
"Now, as to the relative virtues of Glitterdust versus See Invisibility--well, there are two schools on that, if you'll pardon the pun--and I can see the virtue of both--if you'll pardon another pun! Heh heh heh .... Well, as I was saying, mate, these two spells are quite different, really ...."
Neco [Fatigued] d20+3=13 Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:17:14 PM
Neco stumbles forward barely caching herself. Regaining her footing she trudges onward. "I... I can keep going," the young girl says between breaths. The unexpected burst of cold that chills her lungs causes her to breathe tenderly. Moving onwards, Neco wearily fantasises about warm foods, beverages, and fires.
[Fort save]-[13]
Aiden d20=8 d20=3 d20=14 Wednesday August 30th, 2006 10:20:00 PM
Aiden trudged along, his breath starting to get a bit more labored than he had wanted (or expected). This (along with some of the chatter from Bohdi) distracted him slightly as it (the conversation) did interest him somewhat.
"Would be painful to have someone reduced in side with a sword sticking in them, no?" as he grinned through the thought of the person (and not necessarily the spear or sword that was in the victim) shrinking.
Taking a deep breath (and a momentarily rest) before continuing, "can you reduce so small to ride an arrow and then become big again after it hits the target...surprising your opponent?"
"Can the locate object spell find a cave during a snow storm?" he then asked, "since a cave is kind of an object?"
Aiden then stopped a moment. "wait a moment...this could be shady..." Straightening up, "spectacles whatever they are ...in a snowstorm?...OR...boy, or something he's carrying, in a canyon or trail?"
<tags>
Fortitude Save: 8 + 7 = 15 (Woof that was close...does the Endurance feat count here for an additional +2? If so, it is a 17...) DM Endurance is a +4 and yes it does count on these sort of things :)
knowledge (geography for natural dangers): 3 + 6 = 9
tracking: 14 + 8 = 22
Nauthiz'Ull d20+10=25 d20+12=17 d20+6=23 d20+9=21 d20+12=32 Thursday August 31st, 2006 2:52:56 PM
There are many approaches to trudging through icy-snow stratum; this ranger prefers to trudge and trudge and trudge until the end is met. The frigid coating of Celsiun's curse cannot break apart mottled fur leggings. The air is crisp, sharp and searing in the young man's lungs; more reason to tramp through to the end.
For a moment Nauth's head slumps, but from nothing more than reaction to Aiden's interest in things Bohdi. The snow and the ice and the cold was one thing, but Bohdi talking magic, that's persistence.
Watching the young Neco with interest and worry, Nauth will attempt to help her up when around.
"Garret, wunjo, I could go on for hours. Allow me to stay up front; it is where I belong."
Nauth's icy blue eyes seem to be nothing more than portals through his head to the breaking clouds behind him. His thinking is just as clear and true as puffs of steam roll from his nostrils like a giant jumping into fresh powder. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FORT save.25 Spot.17 Know:Geo.23 Know:Nature.21 Survival.32 [NAT 20!] to avoid natural hazards or become lost
Evening Falls Thursday August 31st, 2006 5:20:13 PM
The hours grind and Garret knows the wisdom of not reaching thier goal with fatigued or worse members to the group. Even as he starts the rotation Neco takes a bad step, this kind of open tundra trekking is certainly something she is not used to. Nauthiz'Ull is there and Brynj is the first to move up and take a lead spot. Despite Nauthiz'Ull's assurances that he can keep up any pace into which the others could follow Hrafn moves up the rank at one point, "Brother the need to prove our strength will be upon us soon enough. It is unecessary to do so now. I will push the trail for a while." The other hunter then makes several strides past Nauthiz'Ull without waiting for reply or looking back to see if the other man plans to relenquish the point spot.
Only the breaking snow and billowing breaths mark the passage of the 13. Well almost nothing else. Bohdi, obviously feeling better about most things as the trek moves on has a captive audience in Aiden and is more the happy to speak on the topic of magic so near and dear to is heart. Aiden asks questions and his heart hopes he may have stumbled onto something. Could you locate the captive girl by an object she had at the time?
As the sun begins its discent in the west, the group nears the other side of Kyrelis' Tail. There was no sign of anything through out the hike, on land or in the distance. At this end of the crevice the group fans out and quickly confirms the exit of 6 wolves, likely 4 with riders.
Night is falling and all will be lost the the black on the tundra in about 2 hours. The night promises to be cold but not dangerously so with partial cloud cover and the steady 15 wind from the east
Nauth if you stay up front you will need 4 more saves DC 16,17,18,19 any failure is fatigued.
Neco you are fatigued until you get some sleep
Garrett Friday September 1st, 2006 12:18:39 PM
"Night comes soon. We need to find a place to rest for the night."
"Bohdi, can you ask Squork to go up and take a look around and see if there is any natural shelter ahead? If not, we will likely be best off camping in the opening of the tail here, and then proceeding in the morning."
Spells: 0 lvl: CMW, Light x2, Mending, Detect Magic 1st lvl: Endure Elements x3(cast x3), Endure elements, Magic Weapon(d),(plus pearl) 2nd lvl: Hold Person x2, Spiritual Weapon, Bulls Strength(d)
Bohdi Nackle d20+7=16 Friday September 1st, 2006 1:59:42 PM
Bohdi shook his head at Aiden's question. "It's a good idea, but it doesn't work. If we knew that we were close enough, aye, the Locate Object spell could serve as a useful guide. But its effective range is no more than about a hundred paces--no use over long distance pursuits like this. You'd need something else--a divination spell or two, that I haven't mastered--to locate a person over a longer distance."
At Garrett's command, Bohdi nodded, and then nodded at Squork. Without a word, the bird launched itself into the sky to scout the terrain, reporting back with what it had seen (Spot Squork 16).
When the encampment was chosen, Bohdi would prepare Alarm spells. He voiced his concerns to the others. "If we could go around the Tail, then why didn't the orcs? What advantage was there to them to go through, other than speed? We'll need to be on our guard tonight--I fear that there could be trickery at work."
Accordingly, Bohdi set his two Alarm spells at the limit of their effective range on either side of the encampment--one in the direction of the orcs' apparent trail, and the other in the direction of the Tail.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=22 d20+12=13 Friday September 1st, 2006 2:32:13 PM
Watching as the others stride past him, youth and verility scream at him to push on and show the older that he too can trudge trhough any terrain for as long as his spirit wishes; Ull'Heimdall's trainings silence those screams. Knowing that his body is willing now, it may quickly be drained by Celsiun's touch at any moment.
As the group finds the tracks at the other edge of the Tail, Nauth begins to sweep out, stalking over the tracks, looking for signs of weight differential between the six tracks; he hopes to confirm that the wolves indeed carry the riders on.
"I am checking for signs of the riders staying with the wolves. It would mean that four Tuskers moved on, but there is also the likelihood that dozens more wait in the Tail and will move on us in the night."
Nauth will send his girl out for a moderate distance, sniffing for the foul smell of savages. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Survival.22.find tracks Spot.13
Deep Night and Day Two d20+11=13 d20+13=32 d20+7=20 d20+3=22 d20+3=17 Friday September 1st, 2006 4:47:06 PM
Hrafn answers Bohdi first, "Speed and stealth are the advantages. What took us most of the day, they likely accomplished in 2 hours. It also would hide them as they waited for night fall last night and the attack. They must have sat in the Tail during the day."
Squork takes flight as requested and it does not take the bird long to realize that except for the formation being called Kyrelis' Tail, there is nothing for miles but ice covered tundra and snow covered tundra. Alarm spells are set and as the shelters are constructed, several go over the ground to pick up the trail and sign of the Tuskan raiders. The tracks are located and confirmed, the same number of wolves, with and without riders came out of the Tail that went in. The wolves circle out as does Brynj, Aiden and Nauthiz. All return in short enough order with nothing to report more than the trail of the Tuskan raiders heads ever East at a hard pace.
Watches are set without fires as previously discussed and the dark and cold settle in. The constant wind pushes against the fur and skin shelters, but such is there design that the interiors remain a livable temperature above freezing. Soon the wind and furs take a droning effect that many find peaceful and sleep finds all not on watch.
The Watch is long, hudled behind one of the shelter windbreaks. For the party it is not as bad, due to the magic Garret used. Harfn and Brynj both assume a watch in the deepest part of the night. The former from behind a wind break, but Brynj simply stands in the center of camp, bow in hand, long black hair blasting out behiind him as his hood is off and eyes to the dark horizons.
Soon enough it is morning and a hard tack and jerkeied meat serves as breakfast as the group breaks and picks up the trail. The wind is doing its damage to the trail, but it is still visible.
Garrett Saturday September 2nd, 2006 3:40:58 PM
Garrett prays for spells, and then recasts the Endure elements upon the three people due for it today.
"We better get moving before we lose our trail."
If the snow/ice is more packed down and easier to walk on, then Nauth, Aiden, and Neco can stay up front if it's deep snow prone to tiring the legs, then Garrett will want to rotate the front three every hour so that all stay fresh.
Garrett (Supplemental) Saturday September 2nd, 2006 3:44:21 PM
"I would like to find them before they know we are coming. Surprise and a good battle plan based on what we know of their location would be invaluable. Bohdi, would it be possible to send squork up and ahead every hour or so to take a look for them or their village?"
Aiden d20=4 d20=12 Sunday September 3rd, 2006 9:40:59 AM
Aiden, hearing Garrett's orders, nodded. Garrett and Bohdi have both shown themselves to be strong leaders, though Garrett (albeit reluctantly placed into the role) was a bit more consistent (or level) than the gnome.
With a deep breath, he began to take to the trail before the wind makes any further progress in rubbing it away. He took a moment to look over at the wolf, his 'little sister', awaiting for her to join him on the hunt. That was what they were on afterall, a hunt for the child and for the orks (and the worgs they rode in upon).
Tracking: 4 + 8 = 12 (ouch) [unless the synergy for not getting lost counts here...then it is a 14]
Bohdi Nackle d20+7=27 d20+7=8 d20+7=27 d20+7=27 d20+7=13 d20+7=12 d20+7=17 d20+7=22 Sunday September 3rd, 2006 10:05:10 AM
"Aye, Garrett, I can do that," Bohdi affirmed. Squork would follow the command, circling up and away each hour to look for signs of their quarry or the Tusker village, then delivering an empathic signal back to Bohdi before returning and reporting (Spot rolls for Squork: nat 20!, nat 1!, nat 20!, nat 20!, 13, 12, 17, 22).
Neco d20+7=25 Sunday September 3rd, 2006 1:17:43 PM
Rest is greatly desirable to the weary traveler. Though the trail is hard and a full night of rest is hard to obtain, Neco wakes up full of energy and aspiration for the events to come. Neco marches out in front or the group, lightly scanning for anything unexpected. "How many days away did you say this place was?" she questions Aiden.
--Actions--
[Search]-[25]
--Spells--
[Ring of Sustenance]-[6 days untill usable]
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=27 d20+12=23 d20+12=29 d20+10=18 d20+10=17 Monday September 4th, 2006 1:49:49 AM
The night's drone against the side of the shelter eases the youth into sleep; deep, mountain rumbling sleep. As dawn breaks, Nauth finds himself in habitual hunter mode. He takes his pup and begins a semicircle scan to the East of camp. He takes the time, when the pup picks up a scent, to reinforce her and her hunting prowess.
"I will be fine in the front again wunjo." Nauth nods to Garret with a straight face.
As the trail continues the youth will help whoever may need it. If Neco faulters he will be there to help her up. At some point Nauth approaches Neco in a straightforward manner.
"Neco. I understand that your magics are different than Bohdi's. Could you tell me a bit about how your magics work? I am quite interested."
Nauth will listen to whatever the young girl has to say, all-the-while keeping eyes upon the tramped trail and the seemless wall of whites that is the horizon. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ spot.27 survival.23.avoid natural hazards survival.29.track survival.18.weather listen.17
Day Two in the Wastes d20=3 d20=12 d20+8=18 d20+10=20 d20+11=16 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 2:20:26 PM
Garret renews his spells and casts three of them upon Bohdi, Nauthiz'Ull and Dregar. The camp is broke over the next hour and everyone prepares to get moving. Nauthiz'Ull performs a perimeter walk with the wolf and other than the faint trail continuing south there is nothing else. Over the last day and this morning, the ranger has noticed she is still uneasey about what she is being asked to follow, but is has lessened to a degree. The trail is still there, running east.
The group moves out and the ground firms considerably. Several places catch Aiden's and Nauthiz'Ull's eyes to demonstrate their quarry also knows how to navigate the tundra. More than once over the next 6 hours do the wolf tracks turn suddenly for no apparent reason. The rangers, though, both detect the softer and ever so slightly more white snow covering what could be a mere dip in the ground or a plunge to ones death. Shortly after stopping for a midday break of food and drink, Hrafn speaks before they hit the trail again. "We might want to push further over the rest of today and tomorrow. Celsiun looks to be planning a visit." He stretches his gloved hand to point to a distant southern peak. "He is stirring the Vikrajfjall."
On this days march the ground stays firm, the wind constant and the overall experience taxing, but not overlyso. Neco, Nauthiz'Ull and Aiden retain the point with out issues. The others with the party seem to be doing likewise as well. The strain can be seen in their steps, but none seems the worse for wear after trudging for 8 hours in the wind and snow. Squorks surveys occur every few hours, the raven is not very keen on being out in the freezing temperatures more often than that. Mountains to the south and tundra everywhere else is all he ever sees.
Neco Tuesday September 5th, 2006 10:39:47 PM
"Different? I think you have it wrong. My magic is very similar to Bohdi's." Neco responds rather confused by Nauthiz'Ull's question. Thinking deeper on the matter she comes to comprehend his meaning. "Let's set how to put it simply? Magic is magic no matter who uses it. The source of magical capabilities on the other hand can vary." Hoping that the seemingly unlearned ranger has understood her, she waits for a nod of comprehension, before continuing. "Arcane spells involve the direct manipulation of energies. These manipulations require long study, or natural talent. I rely on my innate abilities. I was born talented!"
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Tuesday September 5th, 2006 10:58:40 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of August 28-September 1 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...x...x...x Bohdi-Kup............x...x...x...x...x Nauthiz'Ull-Drew...x...x...x...x...x Garrett-Chris.........x...x...x...x...x Aiden-Paul............x...o...x...+...x Neco-James..........o...x...x...o...x Dregar-Shawn.......o...x...o...o...o x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --Aiden posted private to DM for Thursday but not publicly.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:02:23 PM
The gnome rolled his eyes at Neco's comments to Nauthiz'Ull.
"At least they're talking," Bohdi whispered to Aiden, Garrett, and Dregar when he had the chance. "That's a start, ennit?"
Aiden d20=9 d20=3 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 7:57:52 AM
Aiden nodded, "it is good..." as he tried to keep his talking to a minimum. Heat could escape from the body in a variety of ways, including through the mouth when talking. Minimize the talking, the longer it is for the heat to be taken.
A small smile began to appear, as a thought started to come unbidden to Aiden's mind. How he loved the hunt...he wondered how the others thought of it.
Dregar Wednesday September 6th, 2006 9:07:47 AM
The Dwarf plodded through the snow and cold with a stoic if not almost frozen face. The ice clung deep to his beard. To Aiden he grunted a reply.
Dregar d20+2=19 d20+6=24 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 12:57:43 PM
OoC and apparently hit the wrong button
"They are at that." The dwarf keeps his eyes peeled for any sort of dangers or approaching creatures. [Spot 19 Survival 24]
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=26 d20+12=31 d20+9=20 d20+6=12 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 1:35:01 PM
Looking inquisicaly at the young female Nauth nods and sucks his teeth. He opens his mouth to speak but his brows wince and his mouth closes instantly.
"You are gifted girl. Your talents reside in the realm of magic and the shadows. My talents take a much different form; the ulf. However, I feel as though something is changing in me. I feel as though something is telling me that I can harness nature's power and use it in a limited capacity. That power is the least of my gifts however."
Nodding again to the girl he breaks off from the point and heads back to the other hunters and Garrett.
"Wunjo. Hunters. I am curious as to how you," nodding towards the cleric fo Domi, "harness Domi's powers and use it. I am also curious to know if any of you can take the powers of the Vein and use them."
The look in his icy blue eyes shows that he has been pondering this for the past few days; it is almost feverish. He scratches his beard and continues to trudge, returning to the point when he has been satisfied.
Back up front with his closest of character wunjo and the young Neco, the tall ranger begins working the tracks and watches the creation of the Vikrajfjall. He has heard of it before, he thinks, and tries to remember what, exactly, it is. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ spot.26 survival.31.hazards know:nature.20.recalling info on the Vikrajfjall know:geography.12
Days on End Wednesday September 6th, 2006 4:54:19 PM
The group tracks and follows the dwindling wolf trail over the rest of the long day and all the following one. The trail has been lost on more than one occassion, but so far somoen has always been able to reaquire it within an hour. The numbers of the wolves seems to have remained the same as has thier course, but it is almost certain that they have slowed to a more cautious speed here in the deeper tundra.
Nauthiz'ull speaks of magic and moves the question from the resident wizard to the entire group as a whole. During the breaks to ease muscles, eat and hydrate the body conversation takes place. All on the tundra claim a closeness and relationship with Celsiun. 'I have heard him in the wind.' 'He has appeared to me.' None claim anythinig of that nature when it comes to Domi. Domi has never said so much to them. Only Svanhvit, Garret and Freist posses any such gifts from As`Domi in Ice Peak. None will talk too much on the witch, they do not understand her powers or where she gets them from, though stories range from dark and evil to she has none and is just an insane old woman. All suspect the truth to be very much in the middle of what they have heard.
To the manifestation of any sort of powers, again not a single man or woman with you can do any sort of thing. All believe that Celsiun has gifted them, watches over them and through thier understanding of the Ice Lord they suceed at thier given tasks when they set into the wilds. Almost any will then end such a sentence with a shrug and the affects of, 'But he is a fickle being and his favor can not be counted to closely.'
Evening of the third day falls and Hrafn talks to the rangers both of Vikrajfjall. "It is one of the higher southern peaks. Often when her summit trails a easter tail of white a front of sharp cold is but a few days from these Eastern tundra plains as it sweeps about the southern arm and breaks back to us here in the west. She had her Tail the day before today. Tonight or maybe tomorrow we will see upon whom Celsiun's favor still rests."
That night, during the early morning shift the winds die down a bit and on the horizon can be seen what looks like a squall line in the clouds, but instead of a deep grey of snow it is pearl white. Nauthiz'Ull, Aiden, Dregar and several others Hrafn among them recognize the Iss'Front. About midday it is going to get quite cold. The party has been in such before and Garrets spell of protection was sufficient to ward it off.
DM FYI I am using Icelandic for most Geological things and Drew and Lynns naming convention for Ice Peak residents and burrowing Ancient Norse to do so there. On Geology jökull means glacier so something ending in jökull is a glacier formation borg is a hill vatn is a Lake A usually isolated mountain is called a fell, as in Búrfell mountain is a fjall, as is fjöll
Garrett Wednesday September 6th, 2006 8:42:35 PM
In response to Nauth, "Well Wunjo, I pray to Domi each morning for spells that I feel May be needed. Each morning he has seen fit to grant me the ability to cast that which I have asked for. At certain points, perhaps when he feels I am ready, a new group of spells comes to mind that I was previously unaware of, and he allows me the knowledge to pray for these spells as well."
With word that it will likely get very cold soon, Garrett worries about our ability to handle it. Should it be even colder than the last we faced, even his spells may not be enough.
Garrett will privately express these concerns to Bohdi and Neco, and suggest that they include at least one or two endure elements if possible in their spells for the day. "Would it not be likely to get very cold Wunjo's, I would not ask. But just in case, I would prefer not to lose anyone to Celsiun's touch. We cannot afford the time to hunker down for an unknown amount of time if we can help it."
That morning Garrett also casts his three Endures so that the six of us are still well covered, and memorizes his third level repetoire as endure's also.
Garrett suggests we keep moving, to make as much time as possible in following the tracks. "Should snow come, we will lose the tracks quickly. I believe we can ward off the cold should it come, unless it is very bad. If we can, it may allow us to make up a great deal of time on the orcs if they are not close to home."
Bohdi Nackle d20+7=10 d20+7=27 d20+7=16 d20+7=22 d20+7=12 d20+7=19 d20+7=16 d20+7=21 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 10:29:01 PM
"Right," Bohdi affirmed. He prepared the spell that Garrett requested. "With the Pearl of Power that I carry, I can cast it another time if needed, too."
Just to be sure, Bohdi prepared the spell a second time, too, and cast it upon Squork. "This way you'll have protection from the cold while you scout, instead of relying upon me," he explained to the bird.
During the day's march, Squork would hourly scout and report, just as on the previous day (Spot Squork = 10, nat 20!, 16, 22, 12, 19, 16, 21).
Aiden Wednesday September 6th, 2006 10:42:44 PM
Aiden listened to the others as they worked towards a decision. Hearing the thoughts, especially in terms of casting spells to aid in resisting the cold, Aiden nods towards the hunters from the village.
"And what of them Garrett?"
It was not meant to be a criticism, and his tone did not put it that way. His tone, instead, was calm as he did not know what to do with them should the others, protected by magic, try to forge onwards.
Neco Wednesday September 6th, 2006 11:04:52 PM
Neco keeps moving in the determined direction hoping that the destination point is close or that something interesting will turn up. "How far is it to this place again?" The bored rogue asks to any one in general. With nothing to do she consoles her boredom with the tundra scenery. "Rock, snow, ice, snow, Ice on a Rock, snow... This is going to kill me."
Dregar Thursday September 7th, 2006 4:37:05 PM
Dregar keeps his mouth shut but occassionally give Neco an odd glance. Apparently the woman has never been in the tundra before and simply does not realize that at any moment she could be wurm food.
Garret and Bohdi look to be pooling resources and preparing for the cold front coming in. To himself he was not concerned, but the others especially those unprotected, well that was another matter. During one of the breaks he approaches Garret as well. "Should we push through then when the fron hits. They are going to need shelter or stop every couple hours less the risk dying. We all know how cold and deadly things can get when not magically protected."
Cold Snap d20+9=26 d20+14=25 d20+10=22 d20+10=24 d20+8=20 d20+10=12 d20+5=10 d20+9=24 d20+14=22 d20+10=23 d20+10=29 d20+8=27 d20+10=22 d20+5=7 d4=4 d4=2 d4=2 d20+5=16 d4=4 Thursday September 7th, 2006 5:34:43 PM
Aiden, Nauthiz'Ull and Neco are point. Bohdi protects Squork on the familiar's own this morning and the Raven is much appreciative of that as he takes wing throughout the day. Garret and Dregar and the rest march in a single colunm. On Squorks flight today, he does spot what appear to be troughs in the distance to the north. They are about the length of Ice Peak and maybe as wide as a good Pine tree. He counts 7 in number. The report is sombering indeed. "`Iss'Wurm trails." Hrafn says over hearing the raven. "Let us hope that herd stays north of us and we may pass unnoticed." The group marches on, the hours grind by as limbs complain over pushing through the endless snow.
The cold hits the group soldiers on, Garret is prepared as is Bohdi if need be, they had to make time. Hopefully the Tuskers have to seek shelter during this time, though they would have encountered it a day ago at least. The hunters of Ice peak march silently and stoically onward after the now rapidly dissolving trail. Few can see it, but it is still there. Likely soon they will only have the last known bearing and their own skills to not become lost and hope the Tuskers kept off in the same general direction. But again they are the hunters of Ice Peak and have chased game trails before in such conditions. In the pack, Garret Bohdi and Dregar have noticed a shift in formation. Hrafn has moved to the point, just behind Aiden and Nauthiz'Ull, but is not assuming the true point. He appears to be double checking them.
The cold deepens, even those protected magically can feel it clawing at their bodies, though the spell is still strong enough to ward it off. It may be that when the sun dips below the western rim the temperature will be beyond even the spells capability. That, however is still many hours off and so the group marches. The first to falter is Thorgrim, a younger man known for his engrossing tales of adventure and danger when out on the hunt and a very accomplished hunter at that. He has spun several during the long nights without fire on this trip. His energy and descriptive abilities on his tale are engrossing. Wordlessly he topples face first into the ice, his nose blasting open upon impact. The blood almost freezes instantly, becoming small beads that dance acorss the surface propelled by the wind. One of the women, Frelfef'Ingre, is right there but her own feet drag as she tries and catch him.
Spot/Sense Motive 16 Highlight to display spoiler: {a sure sign of fatigue though she tries to hide it}
Garrett Friday September 8th, 2006 7:54:21 AM
Not to backtrack, but Garrett memorized the spells to protect everyone from the cold. Garrett has five available(including the pearl) and Bohdi has two(including the pearl).
Once the real cold hits, Garrett would have casted all five of his endures, and encouraged Bohdi to use his two so that all 13 of us are protected. (Although looking back at my last post I didn't specifically say it, I thought I implied it.) Garrett wanted to push until night fall and make up some time on the orcs.
"Bohdi and I have enough endures memorized to allow us to keep going. We will all have one. The cold is more of a threat at this point than many other things, and I will still have healing. We will need to find or make shelter as the sun sets, for even my spell may not be able to completely ward off the cold that comes with the darkness."
Garrett begins casting his spells upon the 7 hunters. Should any resist, Garrett will insist unless they have some sort of magic. If any outright steadfastly refuse, than so be it.(if in either case it happens, Garrett will save one of the second level endure's.)
"We may be able to make up many hours time on the tuskers if we are able to move in this, let us not waste it. Once darkness approaches, let us start looking for a good place to shelter, or begin preparing one."
I read that as you prepared just in case you needed to step in but didn't cast them all immediately.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=18 d20+5=23 Friday September 8th, 2006 9:39:58 AM
The trail dwindles. Nauth's muscles ache. The cold that encapsulates all in the vast tundra seeps its way into everyones blood, bones and brain; it waits, serenly, for magical warding to disipate before it begins to ravage. The point is getting tougher to manage, especially with someone looking over the three's shoulders.
He knows what he is doing, his knowledge is great.
Reassuring himself that Hrafn is only being more cautious due to the Iss'Wurm pack pressumably still to the north of us, he does his best to keep the broad scope of the tundra in perspective; turning to double check our rear and our flanks. As he turns this time, the story-teller collapses. Frelfef'Ingre is there, somewhat, to help him up but she too is weakened considerably; dragging feet, which exerts more energy than true steps, weakened and slowed reactions. They are tell tale signs. It seems as though everyone just musters along and that does not bode well with the young ranger. He backtracks to the main group and assists the two faultering hunters.
As he passes the one chosen by Domi he mutters, "Why are you not helping them healer? Do you not have any magics to relieve Frelfef'Ingre and Thorgrim of their weariness?"
nauth looks over the bloodied nose and helps with whatever he can to get the two back up and in better condition; he will give them some of his water from his body-bladder as well. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ spot-18 heal.23!!!
Bohdi Nackle Friday September 8th, 2006 10:34:40 AM
Bohdi used his Endure Elements when directed by Garrett to do so. He pushed on through the snow and ice with the group as best as possible.
It looked like the group would need rest. Bohdi would help with an Alarm spell and an ice berm when the time came, to help to break the cold.
Aiden d20=3 d20=13 d20=15 Friday September 8th, 2006 12:11:08 PM
Aiden seemed almost unaware of the struggle of the others. His mind (and determination) were on making the path for the others to follow as well as maintain sight of the tracks.
It is only when the others bring it up to him that some of the hunters were falling. Wiping the frost from his face, he waited for the others...While waiting he tried to think of some other methods from his teacher, or from the those of the Tusks, to help them survive the oncoming cold.
(OOC: no sheet in front of me (doing this during lunch at work) Spot: 3 (very sure this fails) track: 13 + 8 (I believe) = 21 knowledge/survival for the cold: 15 + whatever skill (survival or knowledge?) to keep the group, as a whole, warmer.
Dregar d20+2=8 Friday September 8th, 2006 2:06:48 PM
Dregar, being near the back is also quick to the fallen man's side, "Looks like it's time to use them other spells." He says to Garret as the cleric moves to do just that. The dwarf does cast a bit of a look to Nauthiz'Ull. As he and the ranger are helping he says quietly to his friend "Ease up on Garret wunjo, if the tired are too proud to admit it, you don't know until this happens."
After the others are tended Dregar falls to the very back to keep his eye on the others and thier backsides with Wurms about.
Neco d20+7=16 Friday September 8th, 2006 5:40:49 PM
Neco glances over her shoulder to see what has slowed the group's passage forward. "What's going... Oh" Is the young rogue's comment as she notices the man being helped out of the snow, warm blood streaming from his fractured nose, and freezing to his face. "Poor guy." she thinks to herself.
Having not expended any energy, while standing around waiting for the cold resisting spells to be cast, Neco starts to feel the bite of the cold, and pulls her leather garments closer to her body. Looking around she scans for a safe place to shelter the group. "I know you want to find the orcs fast Garrett, but do you think it is best to go on like this?" Neco nods her head, and her grey eyes glance in the direction of the wounded hunter.
--Action--
[Search] for suitable shelter-[16]
Garrett Friday September 8th, 2006 6:20:59 PM
(I don't know if everyone actually read my post, but the point was that I had planned on casting the spells upon everyone before anyone succumbed to the cold. That is why I used all my spells for endure's, including my second levels.)
If there is no backtracking to cover what I had thought I was going to do before it got this cold, then Garrett will reply to everyone's criticism. "If any of you care to lead this rescue, feel free to pipe up. I'm doing the best I can here, so there is no need to rub the obvious in my nose. Thanks though."
And me without my Muff Friday September 8th, 2006 10:57:34 PM
POint of order, garret said he prepared them but did not post casting them, I assumed because in case of some nastiness where turning them to healing may have been appropriate Garret did not cast any beyond the core Poayer group. So the hunter takes a spill the other is a bit tired. Moving on....
Garret moves quickly, the hope of conserving the spells flees from his mind and in very short order the other Hunters have the spell placed on them. Brinj mentions to Garret he does not require one., but to not disrespect his fellow hunters thinks Garret should fake the casting or actually cast it as he sees fit.
Thorgrim is hauled to his feet and his face speaks volumes of the embarrasment he is feeling. Hfarn slaps him on the back and cracks that he should watch those icey patches in the future. Thorgrim seems to except that and puts his feet to moving in line again. Brynj looks over at Neco "He simply slipped, we move. Garret by your lead As`Domi."
With the spells in place, any adverse effects from the cold seem to fly from the rest of the group and the march is resumed as none of the others seem content with stopping. The cold continues to claw at the group, the tundra continues to pass slowly beneath your feet. The sun descending to the horizon marks the groups time to set camp. Again it is open and flat all about and the erected shelters will be the only refuge. Nothing of the sky suggests snow so there should be no reason the group could not strike out again in the morning.
Nauthiz'Ull drifts to sleep this night and whispers reach his ears on the wind. Highlight to display spoiler: {This land I give to you. Yours by right of blood and will. Look to the north when you awake and listen for my voice}The whisper itself is calm and relaxing but full of power. A feeling that is somewhat familiar but elusive like a shadow at night.
Bohdi drifts to slumber with Squork, the pair ending the long day as they have before, bonding in thier empathic feelings of reassurance, but this night to the gnome wizard seems different. he can not place his finger on it but thier is almost a second presence in his mind. Soothing, relaxing like that of a grandfather reading aloud in the background as a child falls asleep.
Garret sleep well, Highlight to display spoiler: {a dream begins in Ice Peak Svanhvit handing the sacred staff of Domi to a much older Garret, but it quickly changes. The staff becomes translucient and bright, a voice pure and familiar, that of Domi touches him. To you I place my future, your step shall be true and your path that of the rightous}
Aiden while on watch stands near Brynj. The slightly older hunter but certainly still a peer looks quizzacally at the ranger a momnet and steps forward. "You were Tuskan once. My father told me the story of your attack those years ago. I was not there." he holds his hand up in a friendly gesture, "I mean no attack upon you Aiden. I speak from curiosity." Brynj begins a dialogue obviously designed to better learn of the Tuskan way of things to better prepare himself for what is to come upon the enevitable encounter. At the end he looks to the wolf, "a magnificent creature she is and touched by the gods to have grown so fast so quickly. You are touched too, you must know. In our past there have been others such as you and your wunjo Nauthiz. Those to whom Celsiuns favor rests in manifestations. You should listen with your heart. He is not evil and it is not weakness to reach out." With that Brynj moves a bit further into the night to give Aiden some space.
Neco Highlight to display spoiler: {bolts from sleep, the temperature about her seems to have plunged to levels imncomprehensible. Feeling the need to stand to get the blood moving more she finds she has frozen to the fur. In horror she watches helplessly as her skin looses its pink hue turning blue and then black. The frigid air tear into her lungs allowing no scream to escape. As the world begins to tunnel to her vision a single word rolls through her mind. It is full of terrible anger and loathing, "Austlander!" Panting neco bolts upright, her condition no worse then during the day.}
The morning finds the group and the shelters taken down. The Cold is very much still present, but the spells keep it at bay and even were able to during the dark night.
Spot DC 18 Highlight to display spoiler: { several hundred yards north a herd of mammoth can be seen moving across the tundra heading East.}
Aiden d20=20 Sunday September 10th, 2006 1:05:26 PM
Aiden's body stiffens as Brynj brings up the failed attack, his failed first initiation into adulthood, those years ago. A stick to the skull was what started one of several battles that he would lose, but within each loss, another more subtle victory arose.
Aiden had gained a new father and teacher after being knocked out those five years ago. He learned the power and use of magick that can heal as well as harm when he faced the giants. Aiden learned to begin trusting again, and that it was acceptable to allow some emotions to show at a loss (such as when Freya passed). That in the ork raid, even though he was ineffective, Neco had shown her skills in combat (and on the wylds), indicating again that women had their place beyond the cook, loom, and mother of children.
He slowly eased the tension that had built, and listened. Aiden spoke of the constant battles, and the encouragement of blood and death. How striking at Ice Peaks was considered a mandatory practice since most of the tribesmen of Twin Tusks knew nothing of a stationary survival, and that the slaves and women were what provided food, services, and non-battle entertainment. Of course, his description of the later was meant to refer to a warrior and his female slaves...and given the crude/roughness of some Tusks, non-battle did not work well with the entertainment.
Might was respected as was the land. To conquer another was to gain in spirit of whomever was vanquished, and to give offerings to the land by given it nourishment (those vanquished in battle). Warriors battled each other to gain in spirit, and to win the possessions of the other...whether it was a weapon, tent, or slaves.
Even as he spoke and his gaze seemed to frost over (his mind thinking back to him growing up). There is a pride within some of his words, but this was sometimes interwoven with regret...and disgust. He seemed to alternate between wishing that order and a greater tie to Celsiun and culture could be brought to Twin Tusks...or to completely destroy it. Though they may be loathed, and would disgust many, their battle prowess needs to be respected, especially whoever leads the tribe as he will be the strongest warrior.
Shaking his head with regret even as his weaving of the village and its denizens (slave and warrior alike), "we are a part of the land and it is with us..." as he looked down at his little 'sister'. "If Celsiun speaks, it will when he wants and nothing I could do would be able to block out his voice."
"But until then...I shall work with the land and if Celsiun wishes to aid or kill me, what am I to deny his wishes?"
(OOC: I did a sort of storytelling roll and got a natural 20...PLEASE let that one count (especially since he is so average with his charisma))
Bohdi Nackle d20+2=19 d20+7=12 d20+7=14 d20+7=11 d20+7=22 d20+7=16 d20+7=18 d20+7=21 d20+7=20 Sunday September 10th, 2006 3:23:40 PM
Another day ... another long, frigid march on the tundra. Bohdi sighed and prepared his spells.
"Bloody little else to do," he muttered to himself.
(Spot 19) Bohdi picked himself up with his spellbook and sat on the ice berm. Gazing out to the north, his keen gnomish eyes caught the shadows of movement among the icy glare. He nodded and pointed. "Herd of mammoths moving east, several hundred paces that direction" he observed, before returning to his studies. He again prepared a spell for protection from the cold and cast it on Squork, so that the raven could scout without discomfort during the day.
Neco Monday September 11th, 2006 7:36:06 AM
Day light comes and Neco moves to the fire. Trying to get down some food, the still tired girl gags on her rations. Everything this morning tastes like ash, like a dry lumpy paste. There is no conversation from the rogue this morning. Rather than feeling cold today she feels sick. Having not slept well she does not march in front of the party. She walks slightly behind the rangers at the front of the main body of the group.
Garrett d20=12 Monday September 11th, 2006 9:53:07 AM
Garrett will awaken, reveling in the dream that he received from Domi. He will spend the morning thinking deeply upon the dream, and trying to remember it all in detail. When praying for his spells, he will spend an extra long time praying and giving thanks to Domi.
After praying for spells, Garrett will cast the three endures, using the rod on those of our group due for them.
Garrett will then ask the hunters and the rangers what they believe the weather will be like later today. The spells that were cast last evening will last until this evening, at which point we could camp if needed. If those in the know believe that it will be quite cold still, then Garrett will once again memorize a full contingent of endure's. If not, then he will revert back to combat related spells.
Garrett will say nothing of the dream to anyone, but plans to speak with Svanhit upon it once they return.
Garrett assists in the packing of camp, and after eating suggests we get moving. "We may still have much ground to cover. And a raid to plan once we find our opponent."
(Spells will be adjusted depending upon the weather report.)
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=27 d20+10=15 d20+12=32 Monday September 11th, 2006 2:39:50 PM
The morning comes too soon after a longish night on the tundra. Howling winds were fine but anything beyond that is unsettling. As the frigid surfaces catch the day's first rays, Nauth stretches as usual and eats some tact. He wipes his girl's coat clean of frost and snow and takes a few minutes to pet her and strengthen the connection that they are forming.
As the group assembles the young ranger begins staring towards the North; spotting the group of mammoth that sojourn on. A fur-clad arm is raised in their direction, finger outstretched.
"Mammoth wunjos. Something is calling us to the north, the mammoths are a sign. Maybe we can move amongst them to the east, hide our position and perhaps surprise the Tuskers. However, with a pack of Iss'Wurms in the area we need to be as careful as possible."
Icy blue eyes reflect the horizon to the north, small spots walk across them and a glint of curiosity sparks all around. Nauth will start in a direct to the North, ears as alert as possible. He will also look upon the skies for an indication of forthcoming weather. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Spot.27 Listen.15 Survival[weather].32 NAT20!
All Eyes North d20+4=16 d20+8=15 d20+8=9 d20+13=20 d20+11=30 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 11:16:19 AM
Overnight hours: Brynj listens to Aiden carefully as the younger ranger talks of the Twin Tusks, thier lifestyle and beliefs. Aiden can easily sense an all most kindred spirit in Brynj with many of the qualities that those men of the Twin Tusks hold in high esteem. He is first and foremost a warrior. As Aiden talks his eyes seem to alight at the potential challenge to live among such people as the Tusks, though it is also very evident that he is turned off by the some of the 'entertainment' the Tuskers enjoy regularly. Aiden has certainly won Brynj over and as the night wears on Brynj answers pretty much any question he can for him. Starting with Nauthiz questions from the previous evening on magic. "I was not entirely forthcoming before, Harfn and some fo the others are even more nervous about magic than you my friend." he begins with a smile. "I can not use any such things but possess a few items of such power. One crafted for me by Svanhvit herself, the others taken as prize from various 'trips' into the wilds." He adds with a wink and a sly grin, "Everytime a hunter goes out he is not just looking for food." He steps back a bit, "Others would be sore at me for telling you that. You and Nauthiz have not been with us long, but I see in both of you what many of them do not. I say you are ready to know more than you do." Brynj continues to explain about the hunters of Ice Peak. They have 4 circles within the group and Brynj is of the second circle, Aiden and the rest are of the fourth. Those considered hunters also patrol for interlopers, track dangers back to their lairs and determine the overall threat they may pose and conduct seeks. Seeking is essentially exploring the wilds, "Pick a direction and go." he phrases it. It is how Ice peak learns of the Vein, it enhances our understanding of Celsium and how we learn of the woven pattern of life about us that we are all bound to.
The morning greets the group much as the previous day and night in regards to the cold. Spells will be needed to aid in survival. As the past days have been there is no fire and everybody takes note of Neco's obvious discomfort. Spells are prayed for, prepared and cast for the trek ahead. Sharp eyes spy the mommoth herd and Nauthiz'Ull and Hrafn council each other on the weather likely over the next couple days. Both agree that the signs point to dangerous cold for the rest of this day and then warming slightly as cloud cover picks up beyond today.
The mammoth sightings throws a stir of excitement through the group and the talk is of trying to take one of them down. Groups of the party's size simply do not go out. It is usually 3-5 and taking on Mammoths which such numbers is just not a good idea. But there are 13 in the party and it could be done.
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Tuesday September 12th, 2006 12:06:58 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of September 4-September 8 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........o...x...x...x...x Bohdi-Kup............-...x...x...x...x Nauthiz'Ull-Drew...-...x...o...x...x Garrett-Chris.........-...o...x...x...x Aiden-Paul............-...x...x...x...x Neco-James..........-...x...x...x...x Dregar-Shawn.......-...x...x...x...o x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --Monday, September 4 was Labor Day. There was no activity on the board that day.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday September 12th, 2006 12:09:22 PM
"Are you bloody starkers?" Bohdi replied hotly to the discussion of hunting a mammoth. "We're on a rescue mission, not some bloody snipe hunt."
He shook his head and looked at Garrett imploringly. "Tell me we're not going to do that."
Garrett Tuesday September 12th, 2006 2:54:18 PM
Garrett uses his spells as he did the previous day, and makes sure that everyone in the group is protected from the cold for another full 24 hours, except for Brynj, whom he fakes the spell on after realizing he likely has an item.
Garrett listens to the discussion of the possibility of bringing down a mammoth, and Bohdi's thoughts on the matter.
"I don't like the idea of delaying this rescue to take a mammoth. We have come a long way, and returning home with mammoth and then setting out again could be costly to the child."
"On the other hand, A mammoth could feed the village for a long time, and it's parts used for many very useful things for all."
Garrett ponders what has transpired, and thinks back again to how perhaps things are intended for he and his wunjo's. His dream from the previous night fills his mind once again, and he believes that this mission belongs to he and his wunjo's, and the mammoth were sent so the other seven members of the party would turn back.
Garrett continues to think for a few moments, and then turns to Brynj. "Can you take a mammoth relatively safely with seven? If you can, perhaps it is time we split forces. Myself, Nauth, Aiden, Neco, Dregar, and Bohdi continue on after the child and the orcs. You and the other six go after the mammoth. If Celsiun has given the village a gift, it would be foolish to ignore it. My Wunjo's and I can bring back the girl."
Garrett waits for responses from all.
Spells: 0 lvl: CMW, Light x2, Mending, Detect Magic 1st lvl: Endure Elements x3(cast x3), Endure elements(cast), Magic Weapon(d),(plus pearl)(used) 2nd lvl: Endure Elements x2(cast x2), Hold Person, Bulls Strength(d)
Dregar Tuesday September 12th, 2006 7:30:29 PM
The dwarf looks like the hunters and then to Garret and Bohdi. All of them made sense. All that meat could feed the village for a very long time, not to mention the skin bones and such. But did they have time. Looking up to the taller cleric Dregar speaks up, "Aye don't like th idea of splitting up but if we take down one or two of those great beasts some will need to take it back." the dwarf scratches his head, "Garret just them 8 might be hard pressed, might we all join the hunt, only delay us by maybe an hour at most. They could do all the after work while we continue the pursuit?"
Neco Tuesday September 12th, 2006 10:54:54 PM
Slightly disheartened by the fact that there is no fire to warm up her cold limbs, the sleep deprived girl joins in the conversation. "Well I have to agree with Dreager here. It would be easier to have us all hunt the 'mammoth', and have the hunters bring it back. It will also boost moral in Ice Peak." Not sure what exactly a mamoth is and having not seen the creature in the distance she imagines the creature to be about the size of a bear "Are mammoths really that tough that one needs thirteen people to take it down?".
Nauthiz'Ull Wednesday September 13th, 2006 12:42:42 AM
Listening to Brynj's explanation of the Hunters of Ice Peak, Nauth looks upon him with a nagging curiosity. Several times it seems as though the ranger makes to ask the elders hunter a question; several times his throat shows up silent.
Ull'Heimdall, you never spoke to me of this organization of hunters. Were you of the fourth circle? I bet you were, you were one of the greatest Ice Peak has housed.
The morning brings forth some shared knowledges on the upcoming weather with Hrafn. Nauth continues his daily routine of stretching, eating and bonding with his pup. As the group bolsters up with thoughts of taking down a mammoth Nauth simply shakes his head.
"I was not saying that we should take it down; I am not sure that is what we are supposed to do with the heard. Something spoke to me last night and told me to look to the north and listen for its voice. I assume that the heard is the voice but I doubt that attacking it was its intention."
Shrugging his shoulders and cocking his head to the right, the young man ponders the reputation that would surely follow that kill.
"We must recover the child; the mammoths can be tracked after that and then our entire group can help in bringing it back to Ice Peak. Besides, if the Tuskers see the heard as well, then we will be fortunate enough to wait for the beast to take a few of them out before we finish both prey off."
With eyes glazing over in deep thought of what may be the correct path, there is an absence of the young ranger's spirit occassionaly.
Whatever you are, I cannot hear your voice. What is your will?
Aiden d20=6 d20=15 d20=20 Wednesday September 13th, 2006 6:27:02 PM
Aiden looked and listened to the others even as their chosen leader, Garrett, had spoken.
"we need to see how much longer the weather lasts wunjo..." speaking softly to Garrett (and trying not to let the others hear). "the cold may be too strong for even these hunters without help if we split."
"but if it breaks, I agree with your decision of breaking off..."
survival (weather for when it breaks): 6 + 8 + 2(know: geo) = 16 knowledge (geography): 15 + 6 = 21 tracking: 20 + 8 = 28
DM (RichP) Friday September 15th, 2006 1:01:29 PM
Sorry guy I haven't been able to post for Dan. I just started law school and the work load hasn't given me time to do much of anything else. I won't have time to post. I wanted to let you know.
DM Friday September 15th, 2006 10:00:09 PM
Will post tomorrow
Mammoths and Rescue Sunday September 17th, 2006 12:11:37 AM
Hurumph, i posted from my laptop earlier, but obviously it did not go through.
The group confers with each other on whether or not to try and bring down one of the greath mammoths. General opinion of the hunters is that yes the rescue is very important, but so is the very real possibility of landing a mommoth. The food alone would feed the village for almost a month. All agree that the group, lead by Garret, should continue after the girl after the mammoth is taken down. In all the discussions, Neco is quickly educated to the strength and size of mammoths and that without everyone there is the very real chance some could die.
Nauthiz finds Hrafn shaking his head to coming after the herd later, "You know in your heart good nauthiz'Ull that the herd will be quite far. It is now or never in this." The ranger tries to open his thoughts to the voice he heard so clearly in the dark. At least one of them, Brynj seems to read the rangers thoughts. Perhpas because he had been the one speaking to Aiden the previous night and acaught a feeling of Nauthiz'U;; close enough to hear. The hunter moves to stand near him and while gazing towards the heard, "he would not have said anything because you were not an adult." Brynj then falls silent.
Hord then speaks directly to all present, "Do we go on and leave them then? As`Domi Garret may lead, but in this, a matter which could so affect the whole village we should all have a say."
Aiden Sunday September 17th, 2006 10:51:58 AM
Thinking hard, Aiden finally came to a decision. His voice, quiet, advisorlike to Garrett, "cast one more spell to protect me from the cold wind's breath...I will then follow the trail of the child and leave markers that Nauthiz and the others can track. That way both the village is served and we do not lose the trail."
Neco Sunday September 17th, 2006 6:51:08 PM
Whoa! You don't plan on going alone do you? Neco's eye's become wide with shock at the idea of some one going off into the wild alone. "Sure he is strong but if the Orcs turn around and find that only one person is following their trail they might decide to fight,"she thinks to herself. "I don't think it's a wise choice Aiden. There is more than one monster in this wilderness, and there is only 'one' of you, 'one' that I am sure we can all agree is needed here." Hope fully the rest of the group does agree. It is suicide, in the outlander's opinion, to do some thing so brash.
Ether Aiden goes or he stays but the rogue is more concerned with the loss of time. "We need to hurry or we will lose both the mammoth and the Treas... Child." The cold and slightly fatigued girl states rather loudly.
Garrett Sunday September 17th, 2006 8:02:19 PM
"You should not go alone Aiden, it would be an unnecessary risk. I believe that both things are very important, and I would not abandon the child. But in this instance, I believe it would serve the greater good to go after the mammoth as a group, as quick as possible. Then the six of us Wunjo's will go after the girl while the hunters take the mammoth back home."
Bohdi Nackle d20+7=8 Sunday September 17th, 2006 11:12:02 PM
"Starkers," Bohdi muttered. "They've all gone bloody starkers. Chasing after bloody mammoths when there's a child to rescue? Bloody barbarians, is what they are."
But Bohdi trudged dutifully along behind his wunjos. At least Squork might serve as a scout. (Spot nat 1! = 8) But the bird was blinded in the glare of ice crystals, and was worse than worthless.
To take a Mammoth Monday September 18th, 2006 5:18:33 PM
Aiden tells the others he will go and keep the trail, but Garret staunches that plan fast. Brynj and several others do as well. "Aiden the trail will not go anywhere in the next 10 minutes." Thorgrim moves over towards Bohdi, "Don't get your beard in a twist. Never heard much complaint from you while sitting at table and stuffing your face!" Brynj is quickly on the other man, "Enough of such talk. You address one who shares a table with me, Thorgrim. Unless you wish to include me in such talk?" The last comes as a question, but it is evident by thorgrims body language that is was rhetorical.
"Finished then? asks Hrafn with a slight grin to the posturing. He shoots a wink at Neco and says quietly "Barbarians" he then looks to the the herd, which has not moved over the course of the discussion these past few minutes. "It is setteled then. The village will greatly prosper with the mammoth, and we can not pass up this gift from Celsium. We have javelins, some spears and Hord, Amundi and my longbows. Plus of course your magice and bows. The trick will be isolating one. Anyone have ideas on that?"
[So as you know I am emailing the possible field of battle]
Garrett Monday September 18th, 2006 5:54:19 PM
"I have no experience in matters such as this. It would be wisest if one of the hunters directed this hunt. As far as ideas, my only thought offhand would be Bohdi's spell that causes one of his opponents to stand transfixed until threatened. Either that, or using an invisibility spell to get aperson between one of them and the herd and spook them. But that could be quite dangerous. Like I said, not my forte."
Spells: 0 lvl: CMW, Light x2, Mending, Detect Magic 1st lvl: Endure Elements x3(cast x3), Endure elements(cast), Magic Weapon(d),(plus pearl)(used) 2nd lvl: Endure Elements x2(cast x2), Hold Person, Bulls Strength(d)
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Monday September 18th, 2006 6:09:33 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of September 11-September 15 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........o...x...o...o...x Bohdi-Kup............-...x...-...-...x Nauthiz'Ull-Drew...-...x...-...-...o Garrett-Chris.........-...x...-...-...x Aiden-Paul............-...x...-...-...x Neco-James..........-...x...-...-...x Dregar-Shawn.......-...x...-...-...o x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --There was no DM post on Monday. After the DM posted on Tuesday, there was no substantive DM post again until Saturday. DM RichP posted on Friday to say that he would not have time to post. DM DanielK apparently had a child's medical emergency some time during the week.
Bohdi Nackle d20=6 Monday September 18th, 2006 6:33:27 PM
Bohdi glanced in astonishment at Brynj's defense of him. Uncharacteristically, he kept his mouth shut and his eyes open as the conversation developed. When he could, though, he gave Brynj an appreciative nod. (Bluff, untrained, to send hidden message, 6.)
Then Garrett spoke. "Hypnotic Pattern is what you're thinking of, Garrett," Bohdi offered. "But it doesn't work well in large groups like that herd. And, in any event, I haven't prepared it today. Or, for that matter, even a simple illusion spell to distract one of the bloody things."
Bohdi shook his head. "Best I can offer might be invisibility to get a hunter close. The spell ends when you attack something, so whomever it is would be exposed again. But, see here, mates--Squork here can deliver a 'recharge' to the hunter once the hunter's exposed, and then fly off himself. That way, if the hunter could deliver a single killing strike, he could still get away while invisible! Squork, of course, could simply fly up and away from the mammoths." The raven eyed its master balefully, as if to say, what in the Wold are you saying? But it said nothing.
Bohdi stroked his goatee and thought some more. "Or perhaps Nauthiz'Ull would have something to offer. As memory serves, wasn't he talking about using a potion to fly while hunting? Eh, wunjo?"
Nauthiz'Ull d20+5=10 d20+12=14 d20+10=28 d20+12=21 d20+9=26 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 2:52:44 PM
Watching the heard, the young ranger looks for some semblance of order to their movements. How would the ulf separate one? His mind flashes images over a clear screen; flashbacks transposed over the white of the tundra and the mass of mammoth before him. Ull'Heimdall would have known how to handle this.
Scratching his stubble Nauth shakes his head at Bohdi's remark. "I used my potion wunjo. I used it back in the village to get a bead on the Tuskers. I got two of them, so I guess it was worth it."
Talk of various magics causes a rogue eyebrow to raise. The thought is interesting but perhaps not as sporting as a true hunt.
"Make someone invisible, sure, then hamstring the beast. What kind of hunt is that though? We should try to divide the group from the center, get a scatter and take down one that way. Less worry for a full-blown stampede and more room to maneuver between the beasts."
As the thought hit him he nodded, perhaps to ensure himself that it would work. Nauth pulls from the magical quiver at his side the intricate bow of Ull'Heimdall.
"We need a loud sound, placed in the direct middle of the heard. Any ideas?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Prof:Hunter.10 Spot.14 Listen.28 Survival.21 Know:Nature.26
Continuing Discussions d20+2=5 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 5:43:23 PM
Either Brynj misses Bohdi's nod or he decides to take it no further. The minor outburst is over and that seems to be that. Tactics begin to be talked about. The big question is, how to isolate one of them? As Nauthiz'Ull and several other hunters talk they redefine the question to, How to keep the other Bull Mammoths from coming to help? A loud sound is brought up and the idea chewed over. Mammoths are not exactly skiddish though. Unless sustained, the soulnd would likely give them all pause and then life would resume.
Brynj offers the plan of superior range, 'Close to about 80 and open up. Further would pretty much eliminate the possibility of javelins connecting.'
Hrafn and several others find the plan distateful. 'Unless we fell it within moments the other bulls would be upon us.'
Only to lighten the mood Frelfef'Ingre, one of the women, offers 'Though we only need to outrun them if need be.' her thumb indicates Dregar and Bohdi.
Thord answers Nauthiz directly, "The sucessful kind my friend. That is what kind of hunt it is."
Magic is spoken of, but unfortunately Bohdi's repotoire is not geared for such things this day. 'The old fashion way then eh?' The group as a whole, has little to offer. Brynj does make mention he can 'silence' the groups approach if they stick together.
Aiden d20=12 d20=20 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 9:52:21 AM
Aiden took a few moments to think about where the mammoths were in conjunction to their quarry.
An idea started to come to mind, but he wasn't quite sure if it would work...(ooc: in short I need to check a couple things with the gm)
OOC: are the mammoths along or near the same pathway as the orks that are riding? If so, a knowledge (nature) roll of 12 + 6 = 18 to see if there is something that they could do to startle / move the mammoths along the same direction...enough to startle the orks themselves into making a mistake (or springing any traps that the orks may leave behind). Since the orks specifically seemed to go for that child, it is quite possible that they would do anything to keep that child protected.
Similarly, knowledge (geography) to see if there is a frozen pond/stream/etc that if the herd could be moved would crack and causeone or multiple of the mammoths to get 'stuck'...20+6 = 26
DM mammoths are currently about 200' north of you and the trail you have been following. the orcs are at least 24 hours to the east. There are no such known formations. Though the chances of a crevace or covered over low area are pretty high to be in the area, say within 1 mile of you in any direction. It would be a matter of finding it and then getting the herd to go that way.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday September 20th, 2006 10:45:10 AM
"A loud sound?" Bohdi echoed. "I can arrange for a loud sound. It would only last for about twenty seconds, though, and I can only cause it to emanate from about ten paces away from me. Not much help, I'm afraid."
Bohdi scowled at the female hunter's comment about outrunning him, but said nothing aloud. To himself, he muttered, "I need to invest in an Expeditious Retreat spell, that's for bloody certain."
Bohdi shook his head, and spoke his misgivings to the group. "I still think this whole idea is bloody starkers. We have a child to rescue."
Nauthiz'Ull Wednesday September 20th, 2006 11:48:56 AM
Nauth listens to the comments of the others and takes everything in. There has to be a way to lure one away instead of forcing one away.
My potions...
"I have another idea. Perhaps this one will take a bull out of the picture. I have a few potions that I am told will allow me to speak with animals. What if I or another hunter snuck up to the pack and started talking with one of the cows? Do you think we could get her to walk away from the rest without them following?"
Icy blue eyes flash around to each present on the tundra; a look of curiousity and excitement twinkles within them.
Garrett Wednesday September 20th, 2006 2:04:56 PM
Garrett listens to the thoughts and ideas of the others, and will defer to the hunters in this matter. Ready to do whatever they deem the best idea.
Ideas, Ideas and more Ideas Wednesday September 20th, 2006 4:35:45 PM
Garret remains silent, this is a discussion for the hunters to hash out. The decision had been made to go for a mammoth, now they simply needed a plan to follow. The cleric looks to his wunjos, Nauthiz'Ull and Aiden most heavily.
Talk shoots back and forth among the 13 men and women. 'About 20 seconds and how close Bohdi? Ten paces makes you in need of the invisibility spell you have mentioned.' 'What about the bird, If it can cast this invisibility spell why not the sound spell?' 'Yes we are out for the child, but we also have duty to the village. Just because I go hunting for fox doesn't mean I won't shoot a deer.'
'Nauthiz, to be certain we simply do not have vast experience in such. I suppose it would depend on what you say as to if you could convince one to leave the safety of the herd.' 'Circle round and corral them' 'Creep in close and open fire' 'Split into two teams and come from the flanks' 'Use the wolves to run in and try to lure out bulls to pursue them'
Thirteen minds draw almost as many ideas, but in truth, none present has ever launched an assault upon a mammoth herd. One idea flows after another.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday September 20th, 2006 5:07:12 PM
Bohdi just shook his head and waited, tapping his foot impatiently. Unnecessary risks were not his style.
Aiden Wednesday September 20th, 2006 8:04:39 PM
Aiden listened and watched Garrett. Shaking his head then, "we must just choose and go with an idea...otherwise we'll be trying to get Bohdi to shrink one of the smallest mammoths, have someone else cast a silence on it, and then kill it..."
Neco Thursday September 21st, 2006 1:47:22 AM
"Maybe we could flank the herd, and pick off one that lags behind?" volunteers the rogue.
Garrett Thursday September 21st, 2006 11:34:40 AM
"The mammoths will run faster than we ever could. If we start shooting at one of the cows, it's likely a bull will come after us. Someone had a flying potion? what if Nauth uses the potion, and just flies higher than they can reach, constantly shooting one of the cows until it goes down? If he starts shooting from the other side of the herd, the bulls may move off in that direction to oppose the threat while the rest flee in our direction, allowing us to add our arrows to the mix."
"What do you guys think?"
"Any idea we go with is going to be dangerous. The problem is coming up with the least dangerous idea that has the most chance of success."
Flank and Herd Thursday September 21st, 2006 8:07:45 PM
Discussions continue as the mammoths, still about 200' away, continue to eat. Thier trunks push as the snow and ice revealing tundra plants they then rip up and consume. Aiden speaks of needing to make some sort of decision and simply enacting it. Garret and everyone else agrees. Whatever is choosen will indeed be dangerous, but they can not stand about all day talking.
The mammoths are likely faster than any in the party so if they begin to charge the group will be in serious danger of being trampled. Flying would eliminate that threat, Does Nauthiz have another potion of flying?
The thought of sending a man or maybe even two to the far side to play bait while others move into range to quickly drop one seems the most plausible to succeed to everyone.
"So who will it be?" Hrafn asks pointedly.
Neco Thursday September 21st, 2006 9:07:53 PM
Neco, ready for anything, shouts out "I don't know about you, but this seems like something stupid. I'm in!"
With that, the rogue pushes past Dregar and Garrett and runs towards the herd. (30 ft. x 4, Square Q,47)
Garrett Friday September 22nd, 2006 8:44:32 AM
"Neco, wait. You're going to send them in the wrong direction." Garrett yells
"Damn fool, she's going to get herself or us all killed." Garrett says. "Aiden, go after her. Skirt to the far side and get the bulls to pay attention to you while we move into better range. If you can get them to worry about you, we may be able to get a good quick kill on one of the cows. Don't get yourself killed Wunjo. Hide or avoid them as you can if they come after you."
"The rest of us will work on sneaking into good range and letting one have a full barrage of ranged fire. Hopefully we can drop a cow quick and all back off until the herd moves on."
Aiden d20=8 d20=13 d20=3 d20=14 Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:02:01 PM
Aiden could only shook his head at Neco's reaction. She was trying to impress the others, at least that was what he thought, but in the process, rashly going into something that she was unfamiliar with.
When Garrett addressed him, Aiden snapped back his attention back to the leader. "Understood..." he responded after listening to the directions as laid by Garrett.
He looked over towards the wolf that followed his steps. Nodding towards his 'little sister' they began to jog off to the side, trying to be inobtrusive, at least until he could position himself to distract the bulls. Together, with the wolf (and his imitation of another wolf howl), perhaps he could throw off the mammoths and instill some fright within them. Either a sound, or by doing something annoying (such as throwing those strange 'snowballs' at the mammoths) to get their attention.
(OOC: Garrett..mind sending where you would like Aiden to be located ideally? I figure he would have pointed/marked the snow to clarify things before Aiden moved off.)
Knowledge (geography): good areas to hide (especially when the mammoths get angry) - 8 + 7 = 15 Hide: 13 + 7 = 20
Knowledge (nature): what to get the mammoths distracted 3 + 7 (I think...cs not on me at work) = 10
imitating a sound for something that will cause a distraction: 14 (unskilled)
Garrett Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:48:07 PM
(OOC: sorry, wasn't very specific.)
"Aiden, if Neco is foolish enough to run right at the mammoths, don't get yourself killed with her. Skirt around the far side of the herd, not quite directly across from where we are, and about 150' from the closest mammoth. My general thought is that you get them running in our direction, but not right at us, it will allow us to all focus our shots on a single mammoth. Whether that be a bull or a cow, which ever is closest to us would be our target. It's all a guess, but if you position yourself so that when you spook them, they run by us at a distance of about 80' it would be perfect. That's not likely to happen, but that would be ideal. If you can get Neco to go with you and take part of the plan great. If not, she'll probably learn a hard lesson.
Bohdi Nackle Friday September 22nd, 2006 3:42:22 PM
Bohdi found a comfortable spot on the snow berm and settled down to watch. He pulled out a piece of hardtack and began to chew.
"This ought to be good," he observed. Squork nodded in agreement.
Game Time Round 1 Friday September 22nd, 2006 5:28:37 PM
Neco takes off in a dash towards the mammoths. The great herd has been essentially stationary during the entire conversation, like a great painted backdrop where nobleman might stand to converse or bards sing. For a moment, no one moves, the shock of what appears to be a rash decision etched on the faces of everyone gathered. Garret is first to spring into action. He calls for Aiden to begin circling, Bergljot and Frelfef'Ingre, the two women hunters also immediately follow him. Frelfef'Ingre calls as they go, "It'll take more than a lone hunter to spook 'em. By yourself you'll end up trampled like that other poor woman will."
Brynj , Amundi and Thord pull their bows and move in the opposite direction, their eyes scouting quickly for something resembling a position. Aiden for his part moves quickly across the barren tundra. Slowing enough to allow anything resembling stealth is not practical right now. There is a good deal of distance to cover to get to the far side of the herd so he runs on.
Bohdi for his part sits down, looks to about be quite the show. Garret too follows the other group, it is quite obvious where the attention of the two big bulls on the herds perimeter have their attention. Dregar moves out as well, pulling his crossbow out to be ready to stop and fire if need be, and it looked fully like that need would be sooner rather than later.
The herd itself seems unconcerned, the bulls have not made any unusual noise themselves even as two of them move to the southern section and close towards Neco. As the rogue closes over the densly packed snow the size of the creatures becomes more impressive with each passing stride. The bull pair move towards her with great strides and the impact shock from the massive animals registers through the ground to the young woman's booted feet even from this disatnce.
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