Setting forth (DMJK) Friday July 7th, 2006 12:49:48 PM
The group heads out of the city without much fuss or fanfare and heads north across the Plateau. The journey to Hoomwix is quick and uneventful save for "hellos" from the occasional traveler.
Hoomwix itself is a fairly small town. There's not much farming on the top plateau, and Plateau City dominates trade. So, the only reason for the existence of the town is the old Teucri lift that lowers travelers down to the lower plateaus.
There's a small collection of buildings offering the typical services that travellers need, notably food and lodging for both man and horse.
It's early afternoon by the time you arrive in town, and it looks like the line for the lift formed just before breakfast. The lifts can hold quite a few travellers at one time, but there are only two. And a round trip on the lift takes some 30 minutes -- 15 minutes down and 15 minutes back up.
There's a booth near the lifts selling tickets down. They're 5 silver each. A helpful halfling siting in the booth advises that there are about 8 lift loads ahead of your group, so you have about a two hour wait.
A teenage boy offers to hold your place in line for 2 silver per hour and suggests that the Red Stallion would be a quality establishment to spend the intervening two hours.
Additionally, you notice an old, wizardly looking man sitting in a chair near the edge of the cliffs some 60 feet or so away from the lift loading area. He seems to be staring at the group in an attempt to get someone's attention, but he doesn't go to enough of an effort to wave his arms or call you over.
Draax Saturday July 8th, 2006 4:37:05 AM
Draax pays for his lift ticket and then gives the kid a silver piece to hold their place. "Hold our place until our turn and I will add a gold to that silver."
Seeing the old guy trying to get their attention, Draax decides to see what the guy wants. "I am going to see why this guy is showing so much interest in us."
When he gets to the old man he asks, "Do we know you or are you staring at us for another reason?"
Arien Sunday July 9th, 2006 2:32:44 AM
Arien also pays for his lift ticket, then seeing Draax approach the old man, Arien follows.
Monthor Sunday July 9th, 2006 9:56:26 AM
Monthor pays and then hangs back to see what happens between Draax and the old man.
Feng Monday July 10th, 2006 1:45:24 AM
Feng hands the boy the requested silver and starts for the inn. When the others are not so quick to follow he stops and looks back.
Phil (DMJK) Monday July 10th, 2006 9:35:35 AM
The old man stares at Draax for a second and says, "All you young adventurers are rude and impolite. Wasn't like that in my day. We would have said, 'Greetings sir, how might we be of assisstance to you this fine morning.' But with all of you, it's 'What daya want?' In any case, if you'd be so kind as to allow me the opportunity to introduce myself without slitting my throat, I'm Phil, enterprising wizard. For a paltry 4 gold each, I'll cast magic that'll let you fly to the bottom with no waiting in line... no horses though. Scares them something terrible."
Draax Monday July 10th, 2006 6:50:16 PM
Draax laughs and then bows to the old man, "My apologies, you are correct. I sometime forget my manners in this dangerous wold. I hope you do not take this next comment as being ill-mannered, but since if we agree to your proposal we will be putting our lives in your hands. How safe is it?"
Draax waits for the man to answer before saying, "If everyone agrees I have no problem with it, but I do not want to fly down and then wait a few hours for the ones that take the lift to arrive."
Monthor Monday July 10th, 2006 9:26:24 PM
:: The dwarf walks up and joins the conversation. ::
" Or me could use me mammie's boots and fly down meself?"
Feng Tuesday July 11th, 2006 10:16:59 AM
"Its a long way down Monthor. Wouldn't want your boots to wear off in mid plummet." Feng says as he digs 4 gold out of his pouch.
Phil (DMJK) Tuesday July 11th, 2006 12:06:02 PM
"The fly spell should give you plenty of time to get to the bottom and then some, but if you fly around too long, the spell will wear off, and you'll fall. But, it's at least as safe as riding on those scary looking lifts. Anything that lets you fly to the bottom should work, so you can use his boots if you want... and if you're one of those dwarfs that hates spells and wizards, then do whatever makes you feel comfortable. I never go a day without casting all my memorized fly spells, so if any of you want to fly yourself down, that's fine by me. I've even seen a few yahoos jump off and hope they cast featherfall at the right time. It's a fine idea as long as you don't cast too early or as long as the speed of the fall doesn't scare the spell right out of you." Phil laughs and arcs his hand through the air in a manner suggestive of someone jumping off a cliff and falling. Then he claps his hands together in a way that ensures the word "splat" comes to mind.
"By the way, I'm a wealth of information. If you need to know something, ask old Phil. Before you ask me anythinig, just remember, Phil likes gold coins, and Phil likes cold ale. But, Phil hates goblins, liars, and cheats... not very fond of dragons either, especially blue ones."
Draax Tuesday July 11th, 2006 6:21:58 PM
Watching Feng pull out his gold, Draax decides to go for it too. He checks to ensure his Ring of Feather Fall is still on his finger, just in case. "Sure, I guess at least two of us are going to take you up on your offer. I will be back in few seconds; just want to let the young man know that he no longer needs to hold a spot for me."
Draax finds his placeholder and puts a gold piece in the lad's hands. "Thanks for holding the spot, but I no longer need it, but he is the gold I promised you anyway."
Returning to the old man, Draax produces the required 4 gold. He cannot think of anything to ask the old man, so he just gives Phil the 4 gold and waits for the spell. "OK, I guess I am ready when you are."
Tratain Tuesday July 11th, 2006 11:31:35 PM
Tratain walks over to the old man and listens to the conversation. Tratain describes the place the group is going to the old man and asks if he knows the place, how to get there, if there is anything of note in the area. Tratain will give him 20 gold for his answers.
Monthor Wednesday July 12th, 2006 7:45:29 AM
The dwarf waits for the others to talk to the old man and says nothing for now... except.
" Cold ale and dead goblins. Sounds like a good night out on the town to me. "
Arien Thursday July 13th, 2006 1:30:04 AM
Arien nods in understanding about the spells the mage proposes to cast for them, had Arien had enough spells memorized to cast them on the party that would have been an option he would have put forth. When the old man mentions being a wealth of information Arien asks, "Well Phil if you could tell us of any odd going ons here about or in the near area that you might have heard about I can make sure you'll have enough cold ale today to swim in."
Phil and... (DMJK) Thursday July 13th, 2006 12:05:18 PM
Phil stares hard at Monthor for a moment and then laughs, "I always like dwarves. Always funny when they don't mean to be."
As for your other questions, "There's certainly a waterfall, and there are trees around it. Whether or not one of them is the tree that you're looking for, I couldn't say. I might could tell you if I saw a picture, but unless it's unusual looking one tree looks pretty much like another to me. Now, if I knew what was special about the tree, I might could help more. Tree of life, magic wood, home of a bixie queen, that sort of thing. Those are the sorts of things I know about trees. As for where it is, you can't miss it. There's only one giant waterfall around here. I'm sure you can hear it. It's only about 100 yards past the lift." He points in the appropriate direction.
Then he turns to Arien and laughs, "I don't swim in ale, I like to drink a pint or two when I relax. I must look a sorry sight if you think I'm such a hopeless drunk. Plus, wizards shouldn't ever drink too much. Did you ever hear about Mad Mage Cwenlis? Ho boy, if you ever wanted a reason not to cast spells when you're drunk, he's a good example. Now for strange goings on, this is more of a "travel through" town. There's not anybody odd in town right now, but weird suspicious characters travel through all the time. There was a group of about 30 halflings that came through this morning. I thought THAT was pretty odd. They headed toward Plateau City four or five hours ago. While they were here, they made more noise than an ogre in a whore house, and I imagine they pilfered the pockets of everyone in town. As for things near the area that are odd, not much unusual up top, but the next plateau down is generally wild and dangerous. The Blackheart Preserve is right at the base of the plateau. The Gnowsy Vineyards are down there too, and it's generally pretty safe right around the base of the plateau, but as you head farther north, the preserve gets pretty wild. All manner of creatures in the preserve, but most of them aren't the treasure hording kind and probably wouldn't intrest you lot unless you just want to see what a giant centipede looks like or something. I think the most interesting place on the Second Plateau is the Dragonridge Hills. Always some bandit group hiding out there, and I know for a fact that a sapphire dragon lives somewhere in the northwestern part. I think his lair is in the Faces of Fate, but it could just as easily be in the Dragonridge. I wouldn't recommend fighting him. He's an accomplished sorceror, make that an accomplished dragon sorceror. But, he's worth talking to, and he sometimes gives his trinkets away to adventurers that he takes a liking too. His name is Patrark. He's also called the Patriarch."
While the old man is talking, Draax is telling his place holder that he won't be returning. As he's about to return, two horsemen ride up. Their clothes and mounts are exquisite. They clearly have money and may in fact be nobles. Rather than waiting at the rear of the line, they begin riding their horses to the front, threatening to trample the riffraff in their way. They wear swords but not armor, but most of the people in this line are peasants or farmers, and they scatter like flies to allow the horsemen to make their way to the front of the line.
:: Monthor rushes to position himself in front of the two 'nobles'. The burly dwarf crosses his arms in front of his chest. ::
{ This be going to be fun me boys. }
ooc> Monthor will move to block their paths and try to block them. If they try to move aroud him, he will use his strenth and dexterity to grab the horses' rains, yank down, and stop them.
Draax Thursday July 13th, 2006 11:36:11 PM
Draax watches the two horsemen come riding in his direction. When he sees that they plan to keep riding no matter who is in their way; Draax locates the young placeholder and guides the young boy out of their path. Draax planned to move slow enough to just get out of the men's way by only inches to spare, to let the men know that getting out of the way was his choice and not by intimidation. All that planning when out the window when Draax sees Monthor step in front of the horses.
Seeing Monthor doing his Hercules impression, Draax takes the moment to make sure that all the peasants and farmers are out of the way before turning his attention back to the mighty Monthor and the horsemen.
Tratain Friday July 14th, 2006 7:28:51 AM
Tratain makes his way towords Monthor, he stands and watches what happens. He will let Monthor Make his point before stepping in to calm everyone down and avoid a larger confrontation.
Ruffian (DMJK) Friday July 14th, 2006 11:01:40 AM
The horsemen stop in front of Monthor, and the one on the right says, "Ruffian, please be so kind as to step out of the way. We don't have time for your foolish dwarven nonsense." The words are polite, but the man on the left has moved his hand to his sword handle.
Draax has his eyes to the crowd and is able to get most of the people in the general vicinity out of the way, but... Highlight to display spoiler: {the combined press of Monthor and horsemen has disrupted the line and the front has moved closer to the cliff edge. Things are fine for now, but if a melee breaks out and people panic to get out of the way of swinging swords, someone could potentiall go over the edge. And with the bulk of the crowd and the horses between himself and the edge, Draax couldn't really get there quickly without shoving through and taking the risk of pushing the crowd even closer to the edge.}
Phil stands to his feet but doesn't otherwise involve himself.
[Draax can read the spoiler automatically. Monthor can't read it as he is otherwise engaged. Everyone else can read it with a spot check dc15.]
Draax Friday July 14th, 2006 8:27:00 PM
Seeing the situation Draax calls to Monthor, "HEY MONTHOR! Let it go for now, we do not want any of the bystander to get hurt or pushed off the ledge by accident. If you have a problem with the gentleman, WE (emphasize the word we) can handle it at the bottom. Maybe these gentlemen have a legitimate reason for pushing their way to the front of the line without any consideration for those that came before them, other than being impolite. We should give them the benefit of the doubt."
Draax waits to see how this plays out. People that arrogant are usually that way for a reason and he does not want to get on the bad side of anyone in power for killing their friend or relative.
Feng Saturday July 15th, 2006 12:33:47 PM
Seeing the disturbance Feng turns and walks toward Monthor and the two nobles. There are way too many people around for a fight and if blood is drawn surely the watch will arrest them and let the nobles go.
Arien Saturday July 15th, 2006 9:17:15 PM
Arien watches the burgeoning confrontation for the moment without interfering. Should the quarrel at any moment actually look like it could lead to violence Arien will try to stop that by offering to pay for having Phil cast Fly on the pair and their mounts.
Tratain Monday July 17th, 2006 5:33:12 AM
Tratain says "Aye Monthor Let it go for now." He turns to the Nobles and says "You should be careful where you steer your horses, if you should hit one of the people here a surley Dwarf will be the least of your worries. Have a good day." Tratain walks back towords the old Magician
Monthor Monday July 17th, 2006 5:59:43 AM
The dwarf looks at the speaking noble but addresses the other one.
" Draw that sword human and me will stick it up where the sun don't shine. "
" And ye..."
:: Adressing the first man now. ::
" Ye touch one of these good people waiting in line and me will stick your HORSE where the sun don't shine. Ye get me? "
Monthor sup. Monday July 17th, 2006 6:01:10 AM
ooc> To move things along. If the 'nobles' don't over threaten Monthor with their response, he will move out of their way and step to where Tratain is.
Belated Guards (DMJK) Monday July 17th, 2006 11:17:58 AM
As the party moves into position, five town guards arrive belatedly on the scene. Judging by such things as posture and the way the equipment is worn, only one of them appears to be competent.
They form up alongside the horsemen, and the competent one asks, "Is there any trouble milord Duke?"
The horseman who had already been speaking responds, "I imagine this dwarf was just leaving, Captain Klee. I believe that large horses simply make him feel inadequate, but if he causes any further disruptions, feel free to stick him where the sun doesn't shine, in other words jail."
Then he looks to Monthor, "If you care for a proper duel rather than a street brawl Master Dwarf, feel free to visit my castle. Just inform the gatekeeper that you're the Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix, and you'll be admitted promptly. Be certain to mention Hoomwix as there a variety of ill-mannered dwarves who have received similar invitations. I would be delighted to have you accept the invitation, and I hope you won't prove to be so cowardly as to refuse my hospitatlity like most of the others."
Then the two horsemen urge their mounts to continue and move to the front of the line. Everyone is quick to get out of their way.
The silent one winks at Monthor as they go.
Captain Klee addresses Monthor, "I hope I won't need to be issuing a warrant for your arrest, Master Dwarf."
Sensing the excitement is over, the crowd begins to settle back into line, and Phil sits back down. However, Monthor is pretty sure that he was just called a coward.
Monthor Monday July 17th, 2006 12:53:18 PM
[Previously]
Then he looks to Monthor, "If you care for a proper duel rather than a street brawl Master Dwarf, feel free to visit my castle. Just inform the gatekeeper that you're the Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix, and you'll be admitted promptly. Be certain to mention Hoomwix as there a variety of ill-mannered dwarves who have received similar invitations. I would be delighted to have you accept the invitation, and I hope you won't prove to be so cowardly as to refuse my hospitatlity like most of the others."
[Monthor]
" Oh don't worry me lad, me will gladely accept your hospitality. Ye can bet on it. Me will see ye soon enough Dooky. Yes me will.. and by the by.. Me name is Monthor. Monthor of the Axe Head Clan. Monthor of the Windhorn Hamleteers."
The silent one winks at Monthor as they go.
[Monthor]
:: Monthor smiles back the warrior. Acknowledging that the man was doing his job protecting Dooky.
Captain Klee addresses Monthor, "I hope I won't need to be issuing a warrant for your arrest, Master Dwarf."
[Monthor]
" Nah. I'll visit Dooky and spank some manners in him later. By the way, where can me fine Dooky's castle? "
Draax Monday July 17th, 2006 11:39:32 PM
Draax relaxes when he sees that Monthor is not going to take on the Duke and the town guards. He frowns when the Duke offers Monthor the opportunity for a proper duel. Their lives would have been a lot easier if the Duke could have just let it be. When Monthor ask for directions to the Duke's castle, Draax just shakes his head, "I knew those horsemen were going to be trouble."
Tratain Monday July 17th, 2006 11:52:26 PM
Tratain watches the Horsemen go. Just because he was born a Duke doesn't give him the right to push these people around.
Joe - ADM Posting Report Monday July 17th, 2006 11:57:48 PM
Player - MTWRF DM - xxoxx
ADM reports will be posted on the boards now, Try and keep the posting up, we want to post at least 4 days a week, 5 would be awesome.
Information Broker (DMJK) Tuesday July 18th, 2006 11:31:25 AM
Captain Klee nods at Monthor, "Very well, try not to land yourself into too much trouble. Unfortunately, I'm not an information broker nor a guide, but I'm certain you can find someone who will provide you with whatever gossip you care to hear about Duke Kolo."
The next lift arrives, and the duke and his companion are the first ones on it.
As it descends, Phil gathers the group back around him. Anticipating the question, he tells what he knows of the Duke, "I see you've made the acquaintance of Duke Kolo of Hammerhold. You certainly know how to pick a fight, dwarf. The Kolos control the Hammerhold Road between the First and Second Plateaus. The Duke's castle is at the top on the Second Plateau, but the rest of the family's holdings are at the bottom on the First Plateau. His father still lives on the First Plateau, but he passed on his title about three years ago. Tired of politics he said. Keeping the road operational and occupying the fort at the top has earned the Kolos quite a few concessions from the crown, including the right to free passage on the plateau lifts. The Highlord Mayor has not seen fit to reverse the concessions, especially since Kolo had been one of King Claudia's good friends. Furthermore, Kolo was one of the few nobles who backed Sturtevent in the early days. Now, Kolo comes through town about once every two weeks. He's the financial backer of several firms in Plateau City, and he is presumably always heading into town to check on his business interests. The quiet fellow with him is Sir Gilan. He's a Knight of the Realm and in charge of the Hammerhold garrison. He generally accompanies Kolo. Apparently the two are friends, but I've never heard Gilan speak. Now then, if you do accept his challenge of a duel, I suggest that you cheat because I understand that Kolo is an accomplished swordsmand and Gilan is even better. Certainly the pair would've been no match for your entire group, but one-on-one is another matter entirely."
Monthor ooc> Tuesday July 18th, 2006 6:03:12 PM
DM,any word on the rp awards and hero points from the last module?
Feng Tuesday July 18th, 2006 6:10:03 PM
"Perhaps there is still time to use the flight spell to beat those two to the bottom. They could use a lesson in humility. Maybe I will get a chance to show them what a real steed looks like. If I thought it would do any good Monthor, I would remind you that this isn't our present course of action."
Arien Tuesday July 18th, 2006 7:46:31 PM
"I doubt a lesson in humility, though needed, is something that we could truly teach one of the nobility. I say we just forget what has happened, it is typical of nobility, humans especially. Our goal is the tree and I say we move with haste."
Monthor Tuesday July 18th, 2006 9:21:57 PM
Monthor listens to everyone with a wicked smile on his face.
" No girlies.... Dooky threw down the gauntlet. He insulted me people and he insulted me. He said that dwarves are cowards. He said that me was a coward. Monthor ain't no coward and no one insultes me people without getting knocked on their back side. Me plan on walking up to Dooky's castle, knocking on the door and challenging him to throw down."
:: Monthor pauses and clenches his fist. ::
" No Princess, this ain't 'our' current course of action but it has now become mine. Arien, the rest of ye boys can go on if ye wish. Me will meet back up with you after me be done. Me not planning on killing Dooky but me will show him what a dwarf can do when a dwarf be ticked off."
Draax Wednesday July 19th, 2006 1:23:00 AM
Draax listens as the wizard explains about the Duke. He is not surprised when he hears that Monthor is not going to let the incident go. He smiles as he considered that the group was bored and need something to do and accepting a duel from the Duke is something to do.
Tratain Wednesday July 19th, 2006 9:33:00 AM
Tratain shrugs and follows Monthor. There would be no talking him out of accepting the Duke challenge.
Flight (DMJK) Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:20:41 AM
Assuming everyone is ready, Phil starts casting the fly spells once he's received his money.
He adds a bit of parting advice, "The waterfall is just over that way, and remember one last bit from old Phil, ticked off dwarves may be a force to be reckoned with, but it still pays to be cautious around spoiled nobles who have nothing better to do than practice swordplay for four hours a day."
DMJK Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:43:04 AM
ooc: Cayzle didn't pass on any info about roleplay exp or hero points, I'll ask him about it. Also, if you haven't emailed a character sheet to me yet, please do so. I don't want to blow anybody away in the first round of combat because you only had half as many hp as I thought.
Draax Wednesday July 19th, 2006 11:32:28 PM
Draax pays Phils, test the spell out by hovering a few steps, and then he flies to the bottom. At the bottom, he waits for the others to arrive.
Tratain Thursday July 20th, 2006 12:16:12 AM
Tratain pays Phil, then follows along to where the group decides to go next.
Arien Thursday July 20th, 2006 1:59:48 AM
Arien pays Phil and adds some gold for the information and then begins to fly towards the bottom.
Monthor Thursday July 20th, 2006 8:04:11 AM
To Phil:
" Well Phil me boy, between me new gear and my buddies' spells to boost me up me thinks me can take Dooky on. One way or they other, me and Dooky are going to throw down. May the better male win. "
Monthor clicks his heels twice and flies down on his own power using his winged boots.
Flight (DMJK) Thursday July 20th, 2006 11:02:28 AM
Draax sails out over the edge of the cliff and doesn't fall. It seems the spell works. The view of the cliff is amazing, but it hasn't really changed much.
Soon the rest of the party joins him in the air, and the trip to the bottom is quite fast. Indeed, you can all see that your flight is faster than the pace of the lift that's carrying the duke down the cliff face.
Feng Thursday July 20th, 2006 5:19:23 PM
"Perhaps if we hurry we can be down the road a bit before the Duke reaches the bottom. I'm sure he will be furious if we are simply traveling down the road as he heads for home."
Draax Friday July 21st, 2006 12:30:05 AM
Draax smiles at Feng's suggestion to get a safe distance away from the Duke. It would almost be worth it to see the Duke and Monthor go at it again.
"You are probably right Feng, for all we know he probably owns the road."
Arien Friday July 21st, 2006 2:56:02 AM
"I expect that you are right Feng, however I don't doubt that Monthor would also love the chance to rub it in the Duke's face that we arrived first. We do not know for sure how long these fly spells will last so I suggest that we head straight down then fly along the road until the spell wears off. We should be much closer to our goal by then."
Monthor Friday July 21st, 2006 6:51:53 AM
" You boys go on ahead. Me will catch up."
Monthor uses his boots to fly all the way down. He then finds himself a nice stump a little ways down the road and sits down waiting for Dooky and his pal to ride by. When he does see the Duke, he'll wave at him like a long lost friend.
DMJK Friday July 21st, 2006 11:08:37 AM
The waterfall that you came to investigate is between your present location and the road. Travel any distance down the road will take you farther away from the waterfall than you probably wish to go, unless you no longer wish to investigate.
Monthor bypasses the waterfall and takes up a spot along the road not too far from the lifts. The trees have been completely cleared for 10 yards on either side of the road, and there are absolutely no stumps or logs on which to sit.
The growth in the Blackheart Woods on the west side of the road is extremely dense and overgrown. The growth is more sparse on the east side, probably owing to the fact that there is a rather large vineyard just a bit farther to the east. No doubt you could see the vineyards on your flight down. The waterfall is also on the east side.
You also notice a rather long lift line at the bottom of the cliff, and Duke Kolo's lift is just reaching the bottom.
Draax Sunday July 23rd, 2006 4:39:02 PM
Draax heads towards to waterfall. When he reaches it, he will locate the tree and take a seat under it (if possible) while waiting for Monther to return.
Monthor Sunday July 23rd, 2006 7:31:34 PM
Monthor waits for Dooky and his friend to pass by.
ooc> Monthor will wave with much exhuberance towards Dooky and smile with a big dwavish grin.
Arien Sunday July 23rd, 2006 11:30:57 PM
Arien goes with Monthor, not out a desire to watch the inevitable, but to try to keep things as calm as possible.
Feng Monday July 24th, 2006 9:07:45 AM
The paladin summons his celestial war horse. Degg is a massive black warhorse with studded leather barding. Feng slides effortlessly into the saddle and turns the steed toward the end of the road in which they are headed. Instead of heading down that road Feng stays and keeps an eye on Monthor.
DMJK Monday July 24th, 2006 10:17:44 AM
Draax goes to the waterfall but is unable to locate the tree. In fact, this waterfall looks nothing like the one in the painting.
From their vantage point, Arien and Monthor are able to see the Duke leave the lift. He walks over to a guard and gives him some sort of brief message and a small leather pouch. The guard nods his head smartly as the duke mounts his horse and rides down the road.
His companion sees Monthor first and whispers something to the duke, but the duke doesn't seem aggravated to find the dwarf on the road. He stops his horse in the middle of the road and smiles at Monthor, "I'm glad to find you here. I was concerned that I had failed to give you directions to my estate. Just follow this road here to the north. At the first fork, head east. If you wish to fly or trample through grapevies, simply follow the Gnowsy vineyards. You can see our little fort from the northeast corner. I look forward to the pleasure of your company. Good afternoon."
With that, the pair makes ready to urge their mounts forward.
Monthor Monday July 24th, 2006 7:25:18 PM
ooc> Pre warning. I'll be away from the 28th to the 6th inclusive. I may be able to post once during that time mid week. Hey post bud, can you sub for me?
:: Monthor curtseys like a girl towards the duke and responds back. ::
" Don't worry Dooky. Monthor won't be far behind ye. "
Feng Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:15:12 AM
The burly half orc sighed. They really didn't have time for this. The Duke may be an accomplished fighter but considering all they had been through it shouldn't be that big of a deal.
Farewell (DMJK) Tuesday July 25th, 2006 10:39:47 AM
The duke responds to Monthor, "Indeed." Then he spurs his horse forward and calls back with a pleasant, "Farewell."
Once the duke is out of sight, everyone hears a commotion and a cheer from the crowd waiting at the lower lift.
Draax is able to confirm that this is not the waterfall the group seeks, and while Monthor may wish to go to the duke's castle, it is out of the way if the waterfall is the group's destination. Of course, you don't really know what to expect at the waterfall except for a tree. The duke's fort might prove to be a more interesting destination.
Draax Tuesday July 25th, 2006 2:11:45 PM
Draax frowns as he realizes that this not the waterfall from the picture. "If we had something else to do, I would have said that this was a waste of time. It was nice to get out and do nothing for a change, but I would still like to find the waterfall with the tree."
Hearing the cheering at the lift, Draax goes back to investigate.
(OOC: I should be able to cover for your, just send me Monther's updated sheet.)
Monthor Wednesday July 26th, 2006 7:43:15 AM
Monthor rubs his hands together at the thought of a good brawl. He knows however that this is way to easy. Nobles, in his experience, don't tend to want to throw down and fight if they can get someone else to do it or if they think they have an advantage. He also wonders what Dooky's buisness with the guard was. Monthor signs and claps Arien on the back.
" Come friend. Let's go see what the locals are cheering about. "
First Impressions... (DMJK) Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:33:32 AM
Draax and Monthor head back to see what all the fuss is about at the lift. One of the guards talks to the pair, "Yeah, it's always like this after Kolo rides the lift. Always pays for everyone in line when he gets off. Never does it when he gets on. Personally, I think he's scared the Teucri magic running the lifts will suddenly give out and drop the lift down the cliff, and that's his method of giving thanks."
Monthor Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:38:01 AM
Monthor looks at Draax.
" So, Dooky doesn't mind throwing his weight around when he gets on but pays to ease his conscience when he gets off. Selfish Dooky. Very Selfish. Anywho, time start on me way to Dooky's. Me got some blue blood arse to kick. "
Draax Wednesday July 26th, 2006 10:37:21 PM
Draax openly laughs at Monthor's comments, "Yea, the Duke knows how to make an entrance and exit. If I would have known that I could have used the lift for free, I might have waited. I guess the waterfall is not going anywhere and if you are set on rumbling with the Duke, I might as well watch. Hopefully, the Duke will be hospitable to those that do not have a grudge with him."
Feng Thursday July 27th, 2006 9:42:28 AM
Feng rides along after the others. Something tells him that this is going to end badly, for somebody. The Duke seems to be challening adventureers for some time. No doubt that he has a few tricks in place to gaurentee his victory. Why else settle it at the compound rather than right in the street?
Tratain Thursday July 27th, 2006 10:04:12 AM
Tratain moves with the others, if the waterfall near them isn't the one they are looking for they will have to continue thier search after Monthor finishes with the Duke.
The road - DMJK Thursday July 27th, 2006 12:25:21 PM
When Monthor says he has some blood blood arse to kick the guard chuckles and says, "Good luck." The he turns back to his duties.
The road awaits, and whether choosing the duke or the waterfall, both destinations currently lie along the same road.
Assuming no other business, the sets off down the road. No one seems to be exerting themselves or rushing, but you all slowly notice that you're travelling very quickly down this road. The lifts disappear behind you faster than you would expect, and soon you come to a portion of the road with grapefields to the east and heavy woods to the west. The pace seems about the equivalent to what you would expect on horseback even though most of you are afoot.
Draax Friday July 28th, 2006 3:37:36 AM
When they come to the decision, Draax mentally marks the spot and then begins carefully walking through the grape field to the east.
Monthor Friday July 28th, 2006 7:42:47 AM
"Me going to Dooky's. So, who coming with me?"
ooc> And with that, I'm off until August 7th. It may be nice to have Tratain come along with Monthor to fortify him with some spells before the dual. Monthor can reason that Dooky will likely have his own tricks but Monthor wisdom (or lack there of) doesn't care. He plans on walking up to the front door, knocking and calling out the duke. Of course, Monthor has no intentions of killing him. Any blows will be of the non killing type. Monthor's preference will be to fistycuff but he will use his axe if Dooky insists on weapons. Monthor also reasons that his buds' abilities to teleport them away will likely be usefull once he trounces the duke. I'll email Draxx my character sheet over the weekend. Have fun boys and try not to get Monthor killed while I'm away.
DMJK Friday July 28th, 2006 12:20:56 PM
About the time Draax steps off the path into the vineyard, the group hears a scream off into the woods on the west.
Arien (Mage Armor) Saturday July 29th, 2006 2:38:04 AM
Arien hearing the scream, and not being the type of wizard to sit back in the event of trouble, heads into the woods, trying to find the source of the scream.
Draax Monday July 31st, 2006 3:43:21 AM
Hearing the scream, Draax stops and turns around to make sure what he heard was a scream. Seeing Arien start heading toward the wood, Draax hurries to catch up with the wizard and joins him in seeing what the trouble is.
Monthor (Stan) Monday July 31st, 2006 3:46:43 AM
Monthor hesitates as he hears the scream, he would really like to get his hands on Dooky, but the snob can wait for a few minutes while he ensures no one innocent is being hurt. Monthor takes once longing look in the direction of Dooky's castle before going to investigate with the others. "Dooky can wait a few minute while we see what is going on."
Tratain Monday July 31st, 2006 7:30:23 AM
Tratain Follows the others when he hearst the scream, going ot invistigate whats going on.
A pit (DMJK) Monday July 31st, 2006 11:40:26 AM
Following the sound of the screams, the group finds a young lady in her late teens or early twenties in what looks to be a freshly dug pit. It's too perfectly circular, about 5 feet in diameter, and some 10 feet deep. The sides and floor of the pit are dirt, and the girl babbles something about falling in while chasing her dog that ran off the path.
You see no sign of a dog up above. (spot or listen checks if you wish to make them)
Draax d20+7=22 Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:28:09 AM
Draax tests the edge of the pit before leaning over to look at the girl. He says in a calm voice while pulling a rope out of his backpack, "Don't worry, we are here to help. Are you hurt, can you move?" Depending on the girl answer and the actions of the others, Draax will offer to pull her up by the rope is she is not hurt or if she is hurt he will let someone heal her before helping her out of the hole. (spot check 22)
Monthor (stan) d20+2=5 Tuesday August 1st, 2006 12:36:09 AM
Seeing what the commotion is, Monthor tries not to let the disappointment show on his face. He rubs his hands together and moves toward the hole. "OK, lets get the lass out of there, Dooky is waiting."
Feng Tuesday August 1st, 2006 8:51:10 AM
Feng sits back atop of his mighty warhorse. While they are helping the girl out of the pit he takes the moment to feel for lurking evil.
ooc: detect evil.
Tratain Tuesday August 1st, 2006 5:03:10 PM
Tratain Helps Draax pull the woman out of the Pit.
Ambush (DMJK) d20+3=6 5d4(2+2+4+4+1)=13 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 10:56:09 AM
As the party gathers around the pit to help the lass out, a crossbow bolt sails over Draax's head and thumps into the base of a neaby tree.
Even as the bolt is quivering in the trunk, the girl casts a spell and a spurt of flames shoots up out of the pit. Draax, Tratain, and Monthor are all by the mouth of pit and feel the heat of the flames rush by them. (13 pts heat dmg, save DC15 for half).
The girl flies up out of the hole behind the flames and takes up a position some 10 feet above the pit.
Eight bandits step out into the clearing. Each is pointing a heavy crossbow at the group, but they are also clearly armed with other weapons. One on the north side of the clearing speaks, "It seems you've fallen into an ambush. If you toss all of your gold into the pit and for the safety of the road as fast as you can, you just might live to see tomorrow."
Feng [AC 23, HP 125/ 125] Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 1:41:07 PM
Feng slowly draws the great axe off his back as he sits atop his massive warhorse. "Gentlemen you really need to reconsider this life you have chosen for yourself. We have battled dragons and giants. Wizards of unspeakable power. We will not back down which doesn't speak well for you. You have one chance to lower your weapons and turn yourself in at the closest guard outpost."
CDM Jerry Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 3:03:18 PM
This game will shut down after Friday 11:59PM if the ADM does not place their posting report for last week on this board by then.
Email me if there is a problem. ;)
ADM Joe the Slacker Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 7:16:35 PM
Player - MTWRF DM - xxxxx
Sorry for slacking on this guys, have been busy but thats not really an excuse. Good posting from Monthor and Draax. The rest of us need to work on it, especially for combat.
Tratain AC 29 HP 106/113 d20+10=27 d20+4=12 d20+10=28 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 7:28:19 PM
Tratain is able to Dodge out of the way of some of the spell (reflex 27) but is unable to tell what spell was cast at them.
Tratain Pulls out his Warhammer and Shield and if time while everyone is talking ready's an action to counterspell the girl if she attempts to cast another spell. (Useing counterspell to counter a Casted spell, Beats Caster Level 17 or Lower)
Tratain says "Throw your weapons in the Pit and do as My friend says, if you force us to fight you its not going to end well for you. We won't hold back and many of you will die before the rest realize you are no match for us."
Draax (hp 136/143, AC25) d20+10=30 d20+7=20 d20+7=14 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 9:41:14 PM
Draax jumps away from the fames and only takes some of the damage (wasted natural 20). He pulls his sword and readies his shield. He turns slowly in a circle mentally marking the location of each bandit (spot checks 20 and 14 if necessary).
Monthor (HP: 117/124, AC: 29) (stan) d20+9=15 d20+5=18 Wednesday August 2nd, 2006 9:54:38 PM
Monthor side steps away from most of the flames and does not pay any attention to the minor burns he received (reflex save 15). He pulls his Dwarven War Axe +2 and stands ready for the bandits. He smiles, "I needed a little practice before taking on Dooky." After his last word is spoken, his axe burst into flames to add a little intimidation to his actions (intimidation check 18).
Arien (Mage Armor/ AC 21/ HP 60/60) Thursday August 3rd, 2006 12:23:22 AM
Arien readies an action to cast greater invisibility upon himself should the bandits press the attack.
Somebody's Funeral (DMJK) [atk bandit #2, hit] d20+17=34 [dmg to Feng= 4] d8+1=4 [atk bandit #4, hit] d20+15=25 [dmg to Feng= 5] d8=5 [atk bandit #5, hit] d20+17=33 [dmg to Feng=5] d8=5 [atk bandit #7, hit] d20+16=25 [dmg to Feng=3] d8+1=3 [atk bandit #3] d20+17=29 [dmg to Feng=6] d8=6 [atk bandit #6, hit] d20+17=34 [dmg to Feng=3] d8+1=3 [atk bandit #8, miss] d8+16=19 [atk bandit #9, hit] d8+17=24 [dmg feng=5] d8+1=5 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 11:56:48 AM
The speaker (#3) doesn't seem daunted and mocks Feng, "Sounds like fun." Then he barks out an order to his men, "Burn 'em down!"
The flying woman casts a fireball, but Tratain manages to counter the spell.
Seeing the spell doesn't work, the speaker calls out new orders, "Horseman!"
Arien turns invisible as all eight bandits then fire their crossbows at Feng. Seven of the bolts strike the paladin (dmg=31, make 4 fort saves and post DCs).
At that point, bandits 2, 4, 5, & 7 begin to reload. Bandits 3, 6, 8, & 9. Drop their crossbows on the ground, draw weapons, and charge toward the party.
#3 closes with Feng. #6 closes with Monthor. #8 & #9 close with Draax.
3 & 8 wield longswords. 6 & 9 wield great swords. #3 is wearing chainmail. The others are wearing banded mail. [swapped 8&6 here to correct the wield types -jk]
Tratain AC 32 HP 134/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence] Thursday August 3rd, 2006 1:23:04 PM
Seeing the Bandits attack Tratain casts Quickened Shield of Faith upon himself, and follows up with Mass Bears Endurence cast upon the whole Party. When he finishes Casting Tratain takes a 5 foot step towords Draax.
-------------------------------------------- Extended Magic Vestment - +4 AC to Shield; 32 Hours Shield of Faith - +4 Deflection AC; 16 Minutes Bears Endurence - +4 Con; 16 Minutes
Monthor (the real one with a library computer) (AC 29, +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly) d20+27=29 d20+12=24 d10+12=18 d6=1 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 2:04:03 PM
Monthor clicks his heels, activates his winged boots and flies towards the flying mage for an attack.
" SURPRISE!!!!! "
If Monthor gets in range he attacks two handed with his axe.
Hits AC 29 for 22 (4 weapon, 12 strenght, 2 weapon sp. and 2 weapon bonus. I only counted the strenght in the above role. Ignore the D20+12 role) physical and 1 fire for 23 total damage.
Draax (hp 164/170, AC25, Bears Endurance) d20+24=42 d20+24=38 d8+12=16 d6=3 d8+12=19 d8=2 d20+19=24 d8+12=18 d20+14=25 d8+12=19 Thursday August 3rd, 2006 4:59:24 PM
Draax attacks #8 and with is first swing (hit AC 42 critical for 35dmg & 2 sonic dmg, total 37 dmg, disreguard 1d6 roll) he is reward with a thundering sound coming for his thundersword (if still alive must make Fortitude save (DC 14) or be deafened permanently).
He swings at #8 again (hit AC 24 for 18 dmg).
Draax attack #8 again unless he is down or deafened, if either case Draax will attack #9 (hits AC 25 for 19 dmg).
Draax (hp 164/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) minor correction Thursday August 3rd, 2006 5:03:21 PM
OOC: Minor corrections to HP, that 1 point might come in handy.
Arien (Mage Armor, Greater Invisibility, Bear's Endurance, AC 21/ HP 88/88) Thursday August 3rd, 2006 6:42:02 PM
Arien takes advantage of his invisibility and starts casting Summon Monster VII, calling a huge fire elemental.
Feng [AC 23, HP 94/ 125] d20+16=35 d20+16=34 d20+16=33 d20+16=22 d20+17=33 d20+12=13 d20+7=25 d12+20=26 2d6(5+3)=8 d12+20=28 2d6(2+6)=8 Friday August 4th, 2006 10:27:47 AM
Feng wishes it didn't have to come to this but then it always does. He gave them a chance and instead they wish to kill and murder. He brings his great axe down hard as his warhorse instinctively turns to give him the best angle.
ooc: fort saves: 35, 34, 33, 22 Power attack -5/ +10. Hit ac 33 for 26 (plus 8 if evil). Hit ac 25 for 28 (plus 8 if evil)
round 2 (DMJK) [ft save] d20+14=25 [#2, hit] d20+17=34 [#4, miss] d20+15=22 [#5, hit] d20+17=23 [#7, miss] d20+16=20 [#2 dmg to Feng=8] d8+1=8 [#5 dmg to Feng=7] d8=7 [#3, atk 1, hit]d20+20=23 [#3, atk2, hit, threat]d20+15=35 [#3, atk2, crit, hit]d20+15=28 [#3, atk3, miss] d20+10=18 [#3 dmg1 to feng=11] d8+4=11 [#3 dmg2 to feng=11] d8+4=11 [#3 dmgC to feng=5] d8+4=5 [#6, hit]d20+24=39 [#6 dmg to feng=20]2d6(6+6)+8=20 [#8, hit]d20+19=27 [#8,hit] d20+14=31 [#8, miss]d20+9=11 [#8, dmg to Draax=6]d8+5=6 [#8, dmg to Draax=13]d8+5=13 [#9, atk1, threat, hit]d20+22=42 [#9, atk1, crit, hit]d20+22=33 [#9, atk2, miss]d20+17=22 [#9, atk3, hit]d20+12=27 [#9, dmg1 to draax=18]2d6(6+6)+6=18 [#9, dmgC to draax=17]2d6(5+6)+6=17 [#9, dmg2 to Draax=13]2d6(6+1)+6=13 Friday August 4th, 2006 12:16:02 PM
Tratain casts his spells and moves toward Draax.
Monthor activates his boots and flies up to the sorceress, but he can not also make an attack after activating his boots and moving this round.
Draax lays into bandit #8. He hits his adversary three times, but the bandit neither goes down nor appears deafened. He doesn't even look angry.
Feng feels slightly dizzy after being struck with the crossbow bolts. He suspects it is not due to loss of blood. The effects are not bad enough to interfere with any of his abilities, at least not yet. He then regretfully turns to engage the bandit leader. He makes two solid hits, and his adversary looks much the worse for wear but remains on his feet.
The girl casts a spell and a wall of iron appears directly above Monthor. Not anchored to anything but empty air, it immediately begins to fall. [STR DC40 to catch it, Ref DC20 to get out of the way.] When the wall drops, she starts flying straight upward.
The crossbow men fire again. Again, they target Feng, and four more bolts streak toward him. It seems that combat has rattled their accuracy, and only two of the bolts strike home. [15 dmg, 2 fort saves]
Feng notes that the leader seems less sure of himself now; he might even be on the verge of panic. Nevertheless, he's determined to dish out some damage of his own, and he attacks Feng with the fury of desparation. [2 hits, 26 dmg total]
Seeing Monthor fly up out of his reach, #6 turns and charges Feng with his greatsword raised up above his head. Using that big sowrd, he hits considerably harder than his leader. [20 dmg]
Feng stays on his feet, but if all the bandits keep targeting him, he'll need help soon.
#8 attacks Draax with his longsword. He's all business and doesn't seem to be either enjoying or regretting his actions. [2 hits, 19 dmg total]
#9 ignores Tratain's advance and also attacks Draax. He swings that greatsword with a fury and hits Draax with one critical blow that really hurts. [2 hits, 48dmg]
Monthor (the real one with a library computer) (AC 29, +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly) d20+8=26 d20+22=30 d10=3 d6=1 Friday August 4th, 2006 1:59:10 PM
ooc I for one would ask for more details from our DM. Ex. How far up did Monthor get? How far is he from the magic user? Should he have had an AoO against the magic user? What distance seperates them now? Please add a scale and North arrow to your maps. (Un)fortunately I had engrained during my geology degree and would get my knuckles hit if I forgot either. BTW, we still need to know who got hero points and bonus XP from the last module.
BBTW, Thanks for the help Stan.
:: Monthor sees the wall coming his way and manages to avoid it (ref 26)."
" INCOMING! HEADS UP!!! " he cries to the others. He realizes that some of the girls are bad off but they will be worst off if the sorceress is able to lob spells at them.
( This is getting to be a habit. Meself against the magic users. )
He then continues to pursue her. If he reaches her...
Power attacks two handed at -5 to hit, +10 to damage hits AC 30 for 29 physical and 1 fire damage for 30.
Tratain AC 32 HP 134/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence] d20+21=28 Friday August 4th, 2006 4:54:19 PM
Tratain Moves up Behind Feng and Casts Heal on him defensively. (Concentration 28 Vs DC 21, Feng Heals 150)
Standing Next To Feng Tratain will Intercept an attack for him aswell.
-------------------------------------------- Extended Magic Vestment - +4 AC to Shield; 32 Hours Shield of Faith - +4 Deflection AC; 16 Minutes Bears Endurence - +4 Con; 16 Minutes
Arien (Mage Armor, Greater Invisibility, Bear's Endurance, Haste AC 21/ HP 88/88) d20+18=32 d20+18=34 d20+18=35 2d8(3+8)+4=15 2d8(3+6)=9 2d8(8+4)+4=16 2d8(4+7)=11 2d8(8+8)+4=20 2d8(7+5)=12 Friday August 4th, 2006 7:24:27 PM
As soon as the Fire Elemental roars to life Arien supplements it by casting Haste on the elemental and everyone else in the party that the spell can reach making sure that Feng was included in the spell.
The elemental then attacks the nearest bandit several times, slamming into the bandit. (Attack 1: AC 32, 15 damage plus 9 fire damage; Attack 2: AC 34, 16 damage plus 11 fire damage; Attack 3: AC 35, 20 damage plus 12 fire; 83 damage total, 3 ref save DC 22 or catch fire for 1d4 rounds)
Seeing the power of the elemental Arien then decides that Feng could best use his help and move down and to the right 30 feet for a better vantage point.
Draax (hp 97/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) minor correction d20+24=26 d8+12=16 d20+19=28 d8+12=18 d20+14=18 d8+12=19 Saturday August 5th, 2006 5:53:05 AM
Although #9 made sure that Draax knews he was there, Draax continues to attack #8. (Hits AC 26 for 16 dmg, AC 28 for 18 dmg, and AC 18 for 19 dmg)
Feng [AC 23, HP 125/ 125] On Horseback d20+16=35 d20+16=30 d20+17=30 d20+12=32 d20+12=17 d20+7=24 d12+20=28 d12+20=26 d12+20=24 Monday August 7th, 2006 10:06:36 AM
ooc: fort saves 35, 30
"I gave all of you a chance.," Feng says as he brings his axe up, "I told you that you had no idea what you were getting yourselves into." He adds as he brings his axe down hard into the leader. Before the massive weapon dips too low, Feng uses his great strength and quickly brings the axe into the soldier with the greatsword.
ooc: power attack -5/ +10 1st attack against leader: hit ac 30 for 28 2nd attack against #6: crit hit ac 32, non confirm, for 26 3rd attack against #6: hit ac 24 for 24
ooc answers (DMJK) Monday August 7th, 2006 10:48:37 AM
ooc I for one would ask for more details from our DM. Ex. How far up did Monthor get? [20 ft above ground] How far is he from the magic user? [He got right next to her, but she moved 30 feet higher last round. So, she is currently 30 feet above him. ie. she is 50 feet off the ground.] Should he have had an AoO against the magic user? [yes] What distance seperates them now? [see above.] Please add a scale and North arrow to your maps. (Un)fortunately I had engrained during my geology degree and would get my knuckles hit if I forgot either. [Lucky for me I'm neither a geologist nor a geographer.]
BTW, we still need to know who got hero points and bonus XP from the last module. [Cayzle told me he'd send them out. Pester him in the LnB about it.]
Monthor sup. d20+22=38 d10+26=36 d6=4 d6=5 d10+13=16 d10+26=31 d20+12=24 d6=1 d6=5 d10+26=29 Monday August 7th, 2006 11:29:10 AM
Occ: Thanks. Consider Monthor's attack in the previous post as the AoO.
Monthor power attacks at -5,+10 damage. 1st Hits AC 38 for 36 physical and 4 fire. 2nd Hits AC 16 for 5 fire and 31 physical Hits AC 24 for 1 fire and 29 physical
Monthor Monday August 7th, 2006 11:37:18 AM
Dang. Me need to read better. Ignore the last two attacks.
:: Monthor follows the magic user and attacks. ::
Monthor power attacks at -5,+10 damage. 1st Hits AC 38 for 36 physical and 4 fire.
" HEEEEERE CHICKEE CHICKEE CHICKEE!!! "
You didn't want it to be too easy (DMJK) [3 reflex saves for #2, made, miss, made] d20+14=31 d20+14=16 d20+14=23 [#7 attk, hit] d20+16=30 [dmg to draax] d8+1=8 [#9 attk draax, hit]d20+22=39 [dmg to draax]2d6(1+6)+6=13 [#9 atk2, miss]d20+17=18 [#9 atk3, miss]d20+12=13 Monday August 7th, 2006 12:15:59 PM
Monthor doddges out of the way of the falling chunk of iron. He feels the wind of it as it falls past. It clangs to the ground with a tremendous thud. He believes it rings with the tone of D sharp when it hits the ground. It's heavy enough that it sinks 2.5 inches into the ground when it strikes. It partially covers the pit. All four corners of the wall are touching solid ground. Furthermore, the ground supports approximately 78% of the wall's surface area. As such, it appears stable enough to walk on without fear of falling into the pit.
Travelling at a speed of 10 feet per second, Monthor then chases the girl upward. Swinging his axe with a two-handed power shot, he strikes the 5'4" 96lb girl with a blow designed to fell a grizly bear. The axe rips through her grey cotton robes, slices skin, exposes muscle, and finally crunches through bone. As he slices the girl almost cleanly in two at waist level, Monthor guesses she must have been about 19 years old.
Bereft of their magic, both halves of her corpse plummet to earth. Her bottom half falls into the pit. The top half falls onto the iron wall where is lands with a sickening thud.
Monthor is now approximately 50 feet above the forest clearing. Above the tops of the trees, he can see the cliffs to the south and the road and vineyards to the east. Trees extend beyond the limits of his vision to the north and west.
Tratain takes up a position behind Feng, and heals the paladin. Feng looks much better.
Arien hastes the party as the fire elemental moves to attack bandit number 2. It lights the grass in the clearing on fire as it traverses the ground. The fire elemental's attacks ignite the bandit, and he falls to the ground writhing in flames.
Draax lays into bandit #8. He strikes three times and deals out a good bit of damage, but the bandit somehow manages to stay on his feet.
Feng brings down the vengeance of the gods upon the bandit leader who falls dead at his feet.
Seeing the carnage wrought by the party, bandidt #8 drops to his weapon and falls to his knees before Draax and begs, "Please, please don't kill me."
Bandit #4 turns and runs east as fast as he can go. He seems to be heading directly for the road.
Seeing #4 leave, #5 runs after him.
#7 gives a parting shot at Draax. The bolt strikes true [8 dmg]. Even before it strikes, the bandit is running west for the relative safety of the trees.
#9 sees his fellows runs and screams, "COWARDS!" as he attacks Draax. He strikes Draax once with his 2 hander. [13 dmg]
#6 hesitates for a moment and at the cry of cowards, he decides to run for it too. He breaks to the south.
When #6 hits the treeline, he screams. There is a roar that sounds something like a lion, noise of a brief struggle, then the shriek of... an eagle?
When the shriek sounds, two more high pitched skrieks answer. One is in the forest almost directly north of Draax. The other is to the west, very near where bandit 7 ran.
When the western one shrieks, bandit 7 screams. Again there is the roar of a lion and brief sounds of fighting.
You don't have long to wait to discover what made the sounds as a chimera leaps into the clearing on the northern side. With heads of lion, goat, and red dragon, the thing looks viscious. It cautiously surveys the party and stalks the edge of the clearing.
At this point, bandit #8 completely collapses to the ground to cry and bleed.
Bandit #9 looks nervously over his should and then glances back to Draax. He makes a quick decision and turns his back on the party to face this new joint threat.
Tratain AC 32 HP 134/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence] Monday August 7th, 2006 11:02:11 PM
Tratain moves up towords to stand with him against the new threat.
OOC: Will Post the Posting report Tomorrow, its storming pretty bad right now here.
Draax (hp 90/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) d20+24=26 d8+12=13 d8+1=6 Tuesday August 8th, 2006 2:46:20 AM
Seeing #8 surrender and then getting attacked by #9, Draax turns his attention to #9. With the chimera coming on the scene and #9 foolishly turning away from Draax to face it, Draax takes a step and puts himself behind #9, putting #9 between himself and the creature. Draax stops himself from taking advantage and doing some serious damage to #9, but he has no problem with using the bandit as a shield and reminding the bandit that Draax is not someone to dismiss lightly, even if a new threat appears. Draax takes out and swallows a potion of CLWs (6hp restored).
To #9 he says, "Isn't this a dilemma? Either, protect yourself against this creature and turn your back to someone who definitely wants to pay you back for the pain you inflicted on me or protect yourself against me and turn your back to the creature. Man! I would not want to be in your shoes."
Draax will only attack #9 as an AOT if the bandit tries to run. (AC 26 for 13 dmg).
Draax (OOC) Tuesday August 8th, 2006 7:17:56 AM
OOC: The AOT in "Draax will only attack #9 as an AOT if the bandit tries to run. (AC 26 for 13 dmg)."
should have been AoO.
Monthor(AC 29, +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly) Tuesday August 8th, 2006 7:21:51 AM
ooc> Thanks for the added details.
Monthor grips his battle axe tightly and flies towards the griffen and attacks.
" EXCELSIOR!!!!! "
ooc> Can Monthor make it to the visible griffen?
Feng [AC 23, HP 125/ 125] Tuesday August 8th, 2006 10:29:39 AM
If Feng considers the Chimera a threat it doesn't show. Yes they were ambushed and the bandits meant to end their lives. But they were professionals at facing life threatening situations. They didn't have the right to deal out deal so casually. He didn't intend to kill the bandit leader. His last attack was to injure him enough to make him retreat. Turning his attention to the warrior with the great sword was supposed to keep an attacker at bay and to try and not kill. It was unfortunate that the bandit leader died and Feng only had himself to blame. He misjudged their strength to a small degree. But what Monthor did was inescusable.
Ignoring the Chimera Feng dismounts and walks over to where the top half of the girl rests. Sighing Feng pulls out his bag of holding where he puts the top half remains into it.
Pythagoras (DMJK) Tuesday August 8th, 2006 10:50:40 AM
The chimera is approximately 40 feet from the pit that Monthor is flying over at a height of 50 feet. Due to his height, Monthor is 64 feet away from the chimera and unable to reach it in one round with his movement speed of 60.
A New Enemy (DMJK) [breath dmg, fire] 6d6(6+4+2+4+4+3)=23 d4=1 Tuesday August 8th, 2006 11:18:46 AM
Monthor streaks toward the chimera with his axe in hand, but due to his starting height he is too far away.
Draax and Tratain turn to face the chimera.
Bandit #9 looks keeps glancing over his shoulder at Draax. He clrealy understands his dilemma, Draax hears him mutter, "Who's &%$@# idea was it to make a moster preserve?"
Bandit #8 begins dragging himself to the relative safety of the pit.
Feng ignores the threat and moves over to the girl.
For it's part, the chimera continues to crouch near the edge of the clearing. It's scaled, red dragon head tracks Monthor through the sky. Then the creature suddenly tucks in its leathery wings and breathes out a cone of fire at the approaching dwarf. (23 dmg, ref DC23)
The lion head stares at the group standing in the middle. It seems to be sizing up the opposition. The claws of the lion paws on the forelegs begin digging in the ground as it readies itself for action.
Somehow, the goat head looks the most ominous of the three. It's glowing yellow eyes sparkle with a wicked intelligence, and the blood red horns look like a product of a twisted nightmare. It surveys the carnage in the clearing and appears to be calculating the strength of its prey.
As it watches the party, everyone hears movement in the forest to the west and southwest. The noise soon gives way to two more chimeras entering the clearing. The western one has a green dragon head while the more southern one has the head of a black dragon. Worse, the green and black appear to be larger and more powerful than the first.
The thought almost seems sickening, but it almost seems that these chimeras are a family with the red as offspring and the black and green as parents.
[no time to change the map right now. character positions have changed slightly and the new chimeras are just inside the clearing at the arrows pointing toward 6&7.]
Posting Report for Tuesday August 8th, 2006 4:23:33 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of July 31,2006
Name MTWTF DM JK XOOXX Draax XXXXOS Monthor XXXXX Tartain XXXXX Feng OXXOX Ambush OOXOO Arian OOXXX
Adm Ceil - Sorry Adm Joe, just doing your Job.
I posted Wednesday! -JK
Draax (hp 90/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) Tuesday August 8th, 2006 4:54:38 PM
With the addition of more chimeras, Draax take a moment to curse on the inside, but on the outside he still remains cool and calm. He continues to keep #9 between him and the first chimera while switching from his sword and shield to his bow.
He says to #9, "I guess today is your lucky day, if you consider being a possible snack for chimera lucky. For the time being the bigger threats are our three headed friends so you will not have to worry about me stabbing you in the back, for now. I do wonder; how can you guys be so stupid as to setup an ambush in a monster preserve?"
To his friends he shout, "It seems that this is a monster preserve. If we can get out without killing any of these creatures, it would probably save us some explaining to the authorities. Any ideas?"
Feng [AC 23, HP 125/ 125] Tuesday August 8th, 2006 6:07:13 PM
Feng secures the girl's remains and moves back to his warhorse. "I'm going to mount up and ride away from here. I suggest that everybody else run for it."
Arien (Mage Armor, Greater Invisibility, Bear's Endurance, Haste AC 21/ HP 88/88) d20+18=20 2d8(4+8)+4=16 2d8(5+6)=11 d20+11=22 d20+11=23 d20+11=21 Tuesday August 8th, 2006 10:53:32 PM
"Well I got bad news for you guys, chimeras are somewhat intelligent, just enough for them to be very evil by our standards. Even if we just try to leave they will likely attack us. The only way we are going to get out of this short of outright flight, which will likely get at least one of us killed, is to fight them off." That said the invisible mage moves to engage the closer of the chimeras whilst the elemental does the same on the other side of the clearing.
The elemental charges the red-dragon chimera and attacks once. (AC 22 with the charge, forgot to include that in the pluses. 16 damage plus 11 fire damage if that hits.)
As the elemental attacks Arien picks his spot carefully and casts a scorching ray through the lesser rod of maxamize. (Touch ACs: 22, 23, 21; each ray does 24 damage for a total of 72 damage)
Tratain AC 32 HP 134/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence] Wednesday August 9th, 2006 8:33:20 AM
Tratain Waits near Draax, if the Chimera's attack he will cast Divine power on Himself.
Monthor(AC 29 HP 127 (124/150), +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly d20+9=10 d20+20=29 d10+26=34 d6=3 d6=1 Wednesday August 9th, 2006 9:42:21 AM
ooc> Okay, well, Monthor is in a flying charge towards the Chimera and it just fried him. How could he just pause now?
After being fried (Ref 10) Monthor continues his flight and attacks the chimera with his axe using a power attack. AC 29 for 34 physical and 3 fire (37)
[power attack was at -5 to hit +10 damage]
DMJK [dragon bite, miss] d20+17=23 [lion bite, miss]d20+15=21 [goat butt, hit] d20+15=29 [1st claw, hit] d20+15=29 [2nd claw, miss] d20+15=22 [butt dmg]2d6(6+2)+6=14 [claw dmg]d8+6=11 [acid dmg]8d6(6+1+3+1+2+5+2+5)=25 d4=1 Wednesday August 9th, 2006 5:11:57 PM
Draax informs the party that you are in the monster preserve. It's common knowledge that the entire Blackheart Woods is a monster preserve. Once Draax points it out, everyone realizes that you've heard it before. This entire plateau is infested with montrous creatures. Hunting monsters in the preserve is prohibited, but self-defense is acceptable.
Feeling a bit guilty about the bandit encounter, Feng begins to ride for the road, but something in his gut tells him that it would be unseemly to abandon his friends when they are faced with danger - even if he disagrees with some of their recent actions.
Arien's fire elemental moves to engage the red chimera (#1). It has no trouble hitting it's target, but it doesn't seem to hurt the monster terribly.
Arien casts scorching ray at the black chimera (#3). The beams hit and tendrils of smoke rise off the creature's hide where they struck. The angry, red burns that remain demonstrate that the spell clearly hurt the creature, but it doesn't seem to have come anywhere near killing it.
Monthor then finishes his flight and attacks the red chimera (1). He hits it hard, but it's tough and doesn't seem too terribly injured.
The red chimera (1) responds with an all out assault against the dwarf. It bites with dragon and lion heads, gores with the goat head, and even lashes out with its front claws. It's amazing that something so large and ungainly looking can react with such speed. Amazing and more than a bit fearsome too. Fortunately, Monthor's armor keeps the attacks from doing him serious harm. Still the goat horns pierce flesh and one claw rakes across the dwarf (25 dmg).
The black chimera responds to Arien's spell by breathing it's own noxious breath. It sprays a 5ft wide line of acid almost directly back along the path of the rays. The thing has keen senses, and even though Arien remains invisible, it seems to have a very good idea where he is. [25 acid dmg, ref DC23 (no dmg if you make save due to invis)]
It follows the acid by quickly rushing 15 feet forward toward Arien. The lion head seems to be sniffing the air. The goat is keeping an eye on the other party members.
The green headed chimera spreads its wings and leaps forward toward Draax. It lands close enough that Draax can smell mold in its fur, but not so close that it's in melee range. Still, it could easily land on top of him with another leap like that.
Draax (hp 90/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) d20+18=24 d20+13=31 d20+8=10 d20+18=24 d8+3=4 d8+3=4 d8+3=6 Thursday August 10th, 2006 3:04:58 AM
Seeing the monster come so close to him, Draax uses his rapid shot ability to fire 4 arrows at the creature. He is disappoint at how weak the arrows seem when they hit the creature.
Hit AC 24 for 4dmg Hit AC 31 for 4dmg Hit AC 10 (pretty sure that is a miss) Hit AC 24 for 6dmg
Monthor(AC 29 HP 102 (124/150), +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly d20+24=34 d20+20=23 d20+15=16 d10+26=30 d6=3 d6=4 d10+26=29 d10+26=30 Thursday August 10th, 2006 9:54:43 AM
"We gonna have us some fun now!!! "
Monthor power hacks ( -5, +10)two handed at the beast with his war axe.
Hits AC 34 for 30 physical and 3 fire= 33 Hits AC 23 for 29 physical and 4 fire =33 Mises with a natural 1 third attack (ignore last d10 role). Total = 66 damage.
DMJK Thursday August 10th, 2006 11:13:23 AM
[Since I posted late yesterday, I'll hold today's post to wait for some more player posts.]
Tratain AC 33 HP 150/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence; Divine Power; Haste] Thursday August 10th, 2006 1:48:30 PM
Tratain Moves to stand Next to Draax, He will Intercept The first attack the Chimera Makes against his friend.
He calls out "Feng, Help Arien with the one chasing him!"
-------------------------------------------- Extended Magic Vestment - +4 AC to Shield; 32 Hours Shield of Faith - +4 Deflection AC; 16 Minutes Bears Endurence - +4 Con; 16 Minutes Haste - 2 rounds of ?? (How long remains on the Haste Arien?) Divine Power - +16 Temp Hps; BaB=Level; +6 Str
Feng [AC 23, HP 125/ 125] Thursday August 10th, 2006 5:39:57 PM
Feng pauses and gives serious consideration to just riding off. It was incredibly stupid to fight three Chimera, especially when two of them are protecting their young. Monthor was never the brightest dwarf but his foolishness suprised him this time. Sighing Feng turns his warhorse and charges C3. Perhaps he will be lucky and fall in battle. That would be a fitting price for his transgressions.
DMJK [1dragon bite, hit]d20+17=30 [1lion bite,fumble]d20+15=16 [1goat, threat]d20+15=35 [1claw1,miss]d20+15=26 [1claw2,fumble]d20+15=16 [1 goat, crit, hit]d20+15=31 [1dragon bite dmg]2d8(4+6)+8=18 [1goat dmg]2d6(3+5)+6=14 [1goat crit dmg]2d6(5+5)+6=16 d20+20=25 [b9,hit]d20+22=40 [b9,dmg]2d6(4+1)+6=11 8d6(5+4+1+6+5+3+1+5)=30 d4=4 Friday August 11th, 2006 11:54:12 AM
Draax peppers chimera 2 with 3 arrows, but the beast barely even seems to notice. The lion growls low and keeps its eyes locked on Draax. The goat seems to be tracking bandit #9, and the dragon head is watching Tratain.
Monthor lays into chimera 1 with all the fury a dwarf can muster. The axe bites deep a couple of times, but the creature doesn't go down. It doesn't even wobble, but it does seem to sense its danger. The goat head bleats a scared cry. The dragon head on chimera 2 immediately swings over to check on #1.
Tratain moves to aid Draax and urges Feng into the fray.
Feng responds by urging his steed forward and charging at #3.
The fire elemental stays by Monthor but doesn't really help out. It sure does make the dwarf feel hot, and a sweat beads up on his brow.
Arien stays invisible somewhere, he's probably watching to make sure that Feng doesn't trample him with his horse.
Chimera 1 attacks Monthor again. It's pain seems to mute it fury. Lion bite and paws seems awkward and clumsy, but the dragon head bites the dwarf hard. That hurts bad enough, but then the goat horns pierce through his side. The horns really hurt. [48 dmg]
Chimera 2 flexes for a pounce, and Draax and Tratain brace for it. But, it spreads its wings and makes a gliding leap at Monthor instead. It swipes at the dwarf with a big paw when it lands, but it misses. With the two monsters flanking him, Monthor might be having second thoughts about how much fun he's about to have.
At this point, bandit #9 shows some courage and attacks chimera #2. He swings his greatsword at the beast as hard as he can manage and is rewarded with a solid hit. [dmg 11]
Even as its lion head keeps sniffing for Arien, Chimera #3's dragon head focuses on Feng and lets loose with another jet of acid. [acid dmg30, ref DC23 for half]
Tratain AC 33 HP 150/141 [Extended Magic Vestment; Shield of Faith; Bears Endurence; Divine Power; Haste] d20+21=37 4d8(2+2+3+8)+16=31 Friday August 11th, 2006 12:21:24 PM
Tratain Moves up next to Monthor and Defensively Casts Cure Critical Wounds on the Dwarf. (Cast Defensively Success 37 Vs. DC 19; Monthor Heals 31)
-------------------------------------------- Extended Magic Vestment - +4 AC to Shield; 32 Hours Shield of Faith - +4 Deflection AC; 16 Minutes Bears Endurence - +4 Con; 16 Minutes Haste - 2 rounds of ?? (How long remains on the Haste Arien?) Divine Power - +16 Temp Hps; BaB=Level; +6 Str - 2 Rounds of 16
Arien (Mage Armor, Greater Invisibility, Bear's Endurance, Haste AC 21/ HP 88/88) d20=19 d20+11=24 d20+11=18 d20+11=28 d20+18=21 d20+18=24 d20+18=30 2d8(4+3)+4=11 2d8(2+6)=8 2d8(8+1)+4=13 2d8(4+6)=10 2d8(2+1)+4=7 2d8(8+1)=9 Friday August 11th, 2006 6:42:45 PM
Arien moves back and to the side, away from the beast and then repeats his action, firing 3 maxamized rays at the Chimera (Touch ACs: 24, 18 and 28, 24 damage a ray, 72 damage total.)
Meanwhile the elemental keeps up its assault on the Chimera lashing out three times at the red dragon-headed beast. (AC 21, 24, 30; 11 damage +8 fire, 13 damage +10 fire, 7 damage +9 fire. 31 normal damage and 27 fire)
Draax (hp 90/171 AC25, Bears Endurance) d20+19=31 d20+14=27 d20+9=25 d20+19=26 d8+4=9 d8+4=6 d8+4=12 d8+4=9 Sunday August 13th, 2006 2:02:25 AM
Thinking that one of the creatures was going to pounce on him, Draax was ready to drop his bow and reequip his sword and shield. He was surprised to see the thing go after Monthor. He guesses that the creatures are protecting their family and there territory, but now that the group is engaged with the creatures, he feels that he has no choice but to see it to the end.
Draax aims his bow at C2 and uses his rapid shot abilities to fire 4 more arrows at it. He hopes firing at point blank range will bring him better luck.
Hit AC 31 for 9dmg Hit AC 27 for 6dmg Hit AC 25 for 12dmg Hit AC 26 for 9dmg
Feng [AC 22, HP 125/ 125 or 110/125] d20+12=29 d20+22=37 d20+17=37 d20+17=32 d20+12=20 d12+10=15 2d6(3+2)=5 3d12(11+5+12)+30=58 2d6(1+3)=4 Monday August 14th, 2006 10:40:07 AM
ooc: reflex save 24. Does his ring of evasion function on horseback? I'm not sure on this because of the special nature of a paladin's mount.
Feng raises his great axe and brings it down hard upon the deadly creature. HIs powerful arms stopped the large axe quickly, bringing it back up again for another strike.
ooc: hit ac 37 for 15 normal and 5 holy. crit hit, ac 32 to confirm, for 58 normal and 4 holy. 3rd attack against ac 20 (probably misses)
Monthor(AC 29 HP 85 (124/150), +1 dodge AC, Mass Bears indurance, fly d20+24=30 d20+20=36 d20+15=24 d10+26=27 d6=5 d10+26=34 d6=2 d10+26=35 d6=1 Monday August 14th, 2006 11:50:46 AM
Monthor hacks away again at the Chimera. ooc>Two handed power attack at -5 (power attack).
Hits AC 30 for 27 physical and5 fire. Hits AC 36 for 34 physical and 2 fire Hits AC 24 for 35 physical and 1 fire Total: 96 physical and 8 fire = 102 damage.
Cleaves if appropriate.
someone else? - DMJK 3d6(1+1+6)=8 [ch2, dragon, threat]d20+22=42 [c2, dragon, crit] d20+22=29 [ch2, lion, hit]d20+20=29 [ch2,goat,hit] d20+20=39 [ch2, claw1, hit]d20+20=30 [ch2, claw2, threat]d20+20=40 [ch2, claw2, crit]d20+20=29 [2 dragon dmg] 2d8(1+2)+12=15 [2 crit dmg] 2d8(2+8)+12=22 [2 lion dmg]2d6(1+4)+10=15 [2 goat dmg]2d6(4+3)+10=17 [2 claw1, dmg]d8+10=13 [2 claw2, dmg]d8+10=18 [2 claw2, crit]d8+10=11 [3, dg, hit] d20+22=33 [3,lion, hit] d20+20=27 [3 goat, hit]d20+20=34 [3 claw1, hit]d20+20=38 [3 claw2, hit]d20+20=29 2d8(1+4)+12=17 2d6(4+4)+10=18 2d6(5+4)+10=19 d8+10=13 d8+10=18 d8+40=43 d4+17=19 d20+35=46 d4+17=21 d20+20=38 d4+27=29 d20+20=40 d20+20=36 d4+22=26 d4+22=24 d20+20=39 d20+20=39 d20+17=20 d20+17=27 Monday August 14th, 2006 2:54:55 PM
Tratain heals Monthor while Arien blasts the third chimera with another set of rays. This time his accuracy isn't as precise, and one of the beams shoots off into the trees.
Draax peppers chimera 2 with arrows, and is pleased to see all of the arrows hit their mark.
The fire elemental throttles the first chimera even as Monthor lays into it with his axe. Monthor's second strike puts the beast down, and he cleaves the second chimera.
Reaching his adversary, Feng lays into the third chimera with a fury. He feels certain he strikes it solidly every time, but after his expenditure of energy, the paladin suddenly feels woozy. His chest feels cold. He imagines that the coldness spreads from the bolt wounds. He struggles to maintain consciousness. [1 fortitude save]
[if your dex bonus applies on horseback, then the ring of evasion works]
Seeing its offspring killed, the second chimera attacks Monthor with all the fury it can muster. The dragon head bites Monthor hard [27dmg], then the lion bites [15 dmg], and the goat gores [17 dmg]. Finally the sharp claws rake the dwarf [13 dmg, 29dmg] [total dmg to Monthor= 101].
The third chimera attacks Feng. Dragon bites (17dmg), lion bites (18 dmg), goat gores (19 dmg), right claw hits (13 dmg), left claw hits (18 dmg). [85 dmg total to Feng]
Seeing the damage wreaked by the chimeras, bandit #9 decides he's finally had enough. He turns and breaks for the western edge of the clearing.
He doesn't make 10 feet before 2 daggers stick in his back. He falls to the ground even as more daggers are flying through the air. Three more daggers strike chimera #2. One hits the dead center of each of its heads, and it collapses in a heap.
The source of the daggers seems to be a stranger clad in blue breaches and a white silk shirt who is standing on the edge of the clearing near where the party initially entered the clearing. He seems to wear no armor, and a longsword hangs at his side. The thrown daggers appear back in the man's hands as you look at him. Armed again with the knives, he looks to the third chimera.
It doesn't seem to like its odds and stretches its wings to fly for safety. It turns away from Feng and leaps to the northern sky. [aao from Feng]
The stranger calmly surveys the scene and after a moment, he speaks, "You fight chimeras with no fear, but you fought alongside a criminal known to me as Floki. This causes me to admire and yet distrust you. I also see the body of Erlend over here, and he most definitely did not die from wounds inflicted by a chimera. This allows me to suppose that you are not necessarily criminals yourselves, but I haven't exactly made up my mind on the matter. Afterall, criminals often kill their fellows. So, I need to ascertain exactly who you are. If you be heroes, I'll see to it that you're rewarded properly, but if you are part of Sigrid's band of cutthroats, you will not walk out of this clearing alive."
Free Hero Point Offer: DMJK Monday August 14th, 2006 3:04:30 PM
hero point offer: Post at least two real conversational posts in the LnB this week and get yourself a free hero point.
Monthor Monday August 14th, 2006 3:34:05 PM
And.... Monthor dies. The end.
Joe Monday August 14th, 2006 5:08:40 PM
Damn, You really need to keep the ammount of HPs in your Post line Correct Yves, The healing spell and other actions I took were based on what I saw there. That Last Healing spell could have been a Full heal if you would have posted you true hps not left the 124 there.
Joe Monday August 14th, 2006 5:23:19 PM
Oh Nevermind, I was reading it wrong, I saw the 124/150 and thought that was you hitpoints bah.
Monthor/Yves Monday August 14th, 2006 6:54:08 PM
The 102 was the current hit points. The he dropped to 85 and was finished off by the 101 damage. The 124 was his full hits points. The 150 was with the Bear's endurance. Was the hits counting the +1 dodge bonus? Is it giant class (+4)? Can I use hero points? What were the odds that it would hit AC 29 (30 dodge) EVERY FREAKING TIME!
Arien (Mage Armor, Bear's Endurance, Haste AC 21/ HP 88/88) Monday August 14th, 2006 8:01:26 PM
Arien cancels his spell of invisibility after the beasts are driven off and the newcomer has his say. Arien responds, "Would a criminal willingly lost the advantage of invisibility against a potential enemy, also if you can take a look at the large half-orc fellow on the horse you will see that he is a Paladin, not many of them run with criminals."
Arien approaches the body of the fallen dwarven warrion and kneels beside him a moment and says, "Rest well my brave friend, you would have shown that duke a good fight."
He lives (probably) - DMJK Monday August 14th, 2006 8:42:35 PM
I used the AC listed in the line. Several of those last hits were right at AC29. If Monthor was at AC30 with the dodge, then some of the attacks missed. Size modifiers were included though.
So, the ones that hit AC29 make up 48 points of damage. If Monthor was at AC30, then he only took 53 dmg.
Tratain Monday August 14th, 2006 8:51:18 PM
Tratain turns towords the newcommer and says "We came out here because we heard someone call for help. When we got here we saw a woman in the Pit, but she attacked us and so did her comrades. When the battle turned against them they ran and the Chimera came."
ADM Joe Monday August 14th, 2006 8:55:49 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Aug 11,2006
Name MTWTF DM JK XXXOX Draax XXXOX Monthor XXXOX Tratain XXXOX Feng XXXOX Arian OXOOX
Good Posting, only one missed day due to waiting on some of us slow posters.
Draax Monday August 14th, 2006 9:07:51 PM
Draax half listens to the stranger. If #8 is still hiding in the hole, Draax points to the bandit and says, "Talk to him." He walks over to Monthor body and seem more disappointed than sad, "I wonder; what payment the lord of death will ask of us this time?"
Monthor Monday August 14th, 2006 9:11:12 PM
ooc> so... is he alive? DM's discretion on the +1 dodge role I assume. I would ruin a perfectly good story line if the arse whooper got killed off before getting to Dooky. Let me know before I dust off the dark suit.
[DMJK - Since chimera #1 was dead when Monthor was attacked, I presume that he was dodging chimera #2 when it attacked him. Ergo alive, but perhaps feeling a bit less immortal.]
DMJK Tuesday August 15th, 2006 10:43:56 AM
Added a dm comment to Monthor's last post.
I'll clean up all the "Is Monthor dead?" posts soon, probably tomorrow.
Lord Arrak (DMJK) Tuesday August 15th, 2006 10:57:44 AM
The man looks over at Arien with a blink of surprise which is probably expected when an invivisble man is revealed, but the comment suggests otherwise, "I'm sorry. I didn't realize you were invisibile. As for the half-orc paladin, I hate to say it, but there isn't really a large sign above his head that says, "PALADIN." Granted that horse probably wouldn't let just anyone ride it."
He nods to Tratain, "That sounds like Sigrid's tactics of late. Of course, she's done much worse than that. The tales are horrible. The one that sickens me most is how she drowned her infant brother in a tub of water just to watch him him die and then burned her mother to ashes when she dared to suggest the girl had done something wrong... and that was only the beginning of her wickedness. I'm tracking her because..."
He reaches the edge of the pit and addresses the man inside, "You there! Where is Sigrid?"
The man in the pit points to the legs in the pit with him, "That demon dwarf chopped her in half. Here's part of her, and that devil orc put the other half of her in a bag for his dinner." He quickly starts to panic, "Please milord, I repent of my wrongdoings. Don't leave me in her to die."
The man says, "Live a bit longer, and we will return to a conversation about your plight. I have a few other matters to attend at present."
With that he turns and kneels by the dwarf. He lays a hand on his head and is quiet a moment, "I think that you've morned his passing a bit too quickly. Dwarves are notoriously hard to kill, especially this one it seems. Let your men tend his wounds and then we may continue our discourse. I'm satisfied for the moment about your intentions."
Monthor Tuesday August 15th, 2006 1:40:51 PM
Suddenly, the dwarve's eyes pop open...
" DIBS ON THE TREASURE!!!! What... where is it! Where's the beasty!"
:: Monthor, his face covered in crimsom, starts trashing about. ::
Monthor Tuesday August 15th, 2006 2:03:40 PM
ooc> Still nothing from Cayzle about our bonus XP and hero points? I did post on the L&B but didn't see any answer.
[he keeps saying he will do it soon. pester him some more. -jk]
Tratain Tuesday August 15th, 2006 7:23:25 PM
Tratain looks over at Monthor and says with a grin "looks like he just feinted."
Tratain asks the Stranger "Have you been hunting these bandits?"
Draax Tuesday August 15th, 2006 8:59:30 PM
Seeing that he was mistaken about Monthor's wounds, Draax turns his attention to the stranger and waits to hear the answer to Tratain's question.
Feng Wednesday August 16th, 2006 12:47:37 PM
"These bandits are most strange. They did not register as evil. Perhaps they are doing this out of necessity."
ooc: feng did a detect evil at the beginning of the battle.
Lord Arrak (DMJK) Wednesday August 16th, 2006 12:55:24 PM
Monthor feels like he was chewed up a dragon, but everyone seems to think he looks ok now.
With the situation calming down, the stranger bows politely to the group, "Forgive me for not having introduced myself earlier, but it didn't seem prudent at the time. I am Lord Arrak, and a complaint was recently brought to me about a group of bandits that had pillaged a farm near my estate. They took everything and left no witnesses. I try to protect the people that depend upon me, but I generally believe in allowing law enforcement officials to carry out their own investigation. However, the brutal way this group dispatched the family at the farm convinced me to track down the killers myself. So, I set out to find the culprits. I've since learned a great deal about this band that sickens me. Unfortunately, the clues initially led me in the wrong direction, and I only discovered yesterday that I had been looking much too far to the north."
"Now, if you have any more questions, I'll be happy to answer them, but I'm afraid I have little time remaining to me. There is a funeral later this afternoon that I would like to attend. I didn't believe that the pursuit of justice would allow me the opportunity to pay my respects, but your timely heroism will now make it possible if I hurry."
"I would like to reward you properly though, so I'd like to extend an invitation for you to visit my estate. It's off the beaten path but quite near Ravenspeak. If you head to that general locale, you'll no doubt find someone who would be capable of giving more precise directions."
DMJK Wednesday August 16th, 2006 1:09:07 PM
[range on detect evil is a 60ft cone. The layout of the bandits (with some of them behind Feng) prevented all of them from being in the area of effect. He could have made a better survey of the area, but combat began rather quickly. So, the bandit who spoke wasn't "evil," but there's room for some of the others to have been.]
Draax Wednesday August 16th, 2006 11:14:55 PM
Draax listens as Lord Arrak explains, "With your timely arrival, I would say that no reward is necessary, but I try to never turn down an offer of hospitality. I cannot speak for the rest of the group, but if I get the opportunity I will definitely visit your estate."
Draax waits and listens to any questions (if any) that his teammates may have for the man.
Arien Thursday August 17th, 2006 3:48:25 AM
Relieved that the dwarf lived after all Arien turns to Lord Arrak, "I believe that there is a waterfall nearby that we are looking for, if you could just point us in the right direction that is reward enough for me. If I have the chance I will accompany Draax here on his visit to your estate."
Tratain Thursday August 17th, 2006 10:38:55 AM
Tratain walks over and casts Heal on Monthor. He says "I would like to go visit his estate sometime. Perhapse after we find the Waterfall we are looking for and Monthor Visits the Duke. Is there anything you can tell us about the Man that is DUke in this area?"
Monthor Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:33:06 AM
:: The burley dwarf still appears dazed but pats Tratain on the arm in thanks for the healing. ::
" Don't be so quick to turn down rewards Draax. Me for one will gladely accept it. Especially if it involves eats and drinks. However, me do want to pay Dooky the visit me promised him. He needs his arse whooped and me be just the dwarf to do it. "
Waterfall and Duke (DMJK) Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:46:32 AM
"Why there's a waterfall less than half a mile that way." He points to the waterfall that you all just visited. "If you follow the safe road back to the lift to the upper plateau, you'll run right to it. If that's not the one you want, I could perhaps be of more assistance if I had a better notion of which waterfall in the world that you're looking for."
"As for dukes, you probably mean Kolo. His castle is nearest this place. Funny that you'd mention him, as it's his mother's funeral that I am rushing to attend. She was a dear woman, but her health had been exceedingly poor for some time. As for Kolo, his demeanor is often brusque, but he's the soul of generosity. For example, his position as an advisor to the High Lord Mayor requires frequent trips to Plateau City, and he must travel the lifts often. As a Lord Defender of the Realm, he's entitled to free passage, but he hates to ride for free when so many others are force to pay so dearly. Therefore, he always pays for everyone in line once he leaves the lift. I remark on that because it has always seemd odd to me that he pays after riding. He says it's because the thanks make him uncomfortable. He funds an orphange and some mission projects of the Temple of Alemi too.... hmm... what else? Well, he fought against the Dark Lord in the War of Ascension of course, and he's quite skilled with the lute. Is that a sufficient number of details about the man? I could probably think of more if you'd like to press, but I really must be getting along."
He makes a polite bow, "It was a pleasure meeting all of you, and I do hope that you will come to visit me."
Draax Thursday August 17th, 2006 3:40:34 PM
Before Lord Arrak leaves, Draax says, "Is the waterfall you mentioned the Brinkwater River that flows down the Upper Plateau? We are seeking a waterfall that has a large tree in front of it that we were lead to believe is in this area."
Feng Thursday August 17th, 2006 7:12:16 PM
Feng stands and listenes to the Duke, unsure about what to do...
Tratain Thursday August 17th, 2006 11:29:02 PM
Tratain waits silently now, waiting for the others to see where they are going.
Monthor Friday August 18th, 2006 7:52:56 AM
Monthor also waits for an answer from Lord Arrak.
DMJK Friday August 18th, 2006 3:15:25 PM
"Yes, the Hoomwix Falls of the Brinkwater River are nearby. There are no others particularly close. The Brinkwater is the only river on this plateau. It does flow down to the next plateau at Gooddiamond. Perhaps that is the one you seek. It's 25 miles or so down the road."
[If you recall, there were three possible locations for the waterfall, Hoomwix, Gooddiamond, and Golpherand (the three towns where the Brinkwater falls down a plateau).]
Draax Friday August 18th, 2006 10:37:37 PM
Draax thanks the man for answering the questions, "Thank you, hopefully when we finish our journey, we can take you up on your offer of hospitality."
When the man has departed, Draax says to the group, "It looks like we have a couple of other waterfalls to check out." Looks questionably at Monthor, "If Monthor is still set on visiting the duke, we should at least wait until the funeral is over. Whatever we do, we should get out of here before more creatures show up."
Arien Saturday August 19th, 2006 12:51:19 AM
Arien also thanks the man and looks to the others, "Well we have two more waterfalls to look for I agree with Draax and say we get moving."
Monthor Monday August 21st, 2006 10:23:05 AM
Me agree. Let's go to the closest fall first and then me can visit Dooky.
Feng Monday August 21st, 2006 1:24:04 PM
"We should not waste too much time with the Duke."
Monthor add on Monday August 21st, 2006 1:45:25 PM
" No one said any of ye needed to come with. This be a matter between me and Dooky. Me don't plan on killing him but he insulted me and me people and me be honor bound to whoop his arse. Ye, being a paladin and all, should know something about honor Princess. "
Tratain Monday August 21st, 2006 4:34:54 PM
Tratain says "Aye lets get back to the road and keep walking, we can decide as we go what we'll be doing. We're not in a rush to be anywhere at the moment."
(Not so) Old Friends - DMJK Monday August 21st, 2006 5:26:56 PM
The group discusses their options and returns to the road. Before they travel too far, they find two men with not familiar faces seated in the middle of the road.
They are none other than two of the bandits that ran from your recent encounter.
They note the party's approach but don't go out of their way to run, hide, attack, or defend. In fact, they appear not to have a care in the world.
Monthor- Previous to encountering the two bandits. Monday August 21st, 2006 7:02:04 PM
" Humm... just wondering... was there any treasure on the bandits that we killed? Really guys.. we killed a fairly powefull magic user and a bunch of her peons. There should have been some loot."
ADM Joe Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 11:08:44 AM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Aug 18,2006
Name MTWTF DM JK XXXXX Draax XXXXX Monthor XXXXX Tratain XXXXX Feng OXOXX Arian XOXXX
Draax d20+7=8 Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 2:03:03 PM
Draax slows as he comes close to the two bandits. He looks around for any sign of a trap (spot check natural 1) and if he does not see anything out of the ordinary, he will approach the two.
"You guys waiting here for a rematch? Didn't you guys get enough of beating the last time?"
Draax waits to see if they answer or spring another trap.
If they did not want to fight, Draax ask the others, "Should we turn the inn? Especially after what the did to Lord Arrak's people."
DMJK Tuesday August 22nd, 2006 4:46:15 PM
Draax doesn't see anything out of the ordinary as he approaches the two bandits. They remain sitting in the center of the road, but they do look slightly nervous. Rather than run or put up a fight, they scoot as close to the center of the road as possible.
In response to Draax's questions, the one on the left says, "Go on down the road. We'll stay right here."
The one on the right adds, "Yeah. We have plenty of food and no desire to go anywhere at all. Plus, I don't think you can't make us leave."
At that point, they both laugh.
Other than two seemingly dim-witted bandits, there is absolutely nothing out of place on the road or its surroundings.
[There was one masterwork two-handed sword in the dropped loot. Everything else was junk.]
Feng Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 9:57:48 AM
"My friends this is where we will have to part ways. I feel that the work we have been doing is important but there are other things that need to be done too. Perhaps the gods will smile upon us and we will meet again."
ooc: It's been fun but I need a little break from the wold. That and for some time I've felt that a paladin doesn't fit well. Maybe there will be an opportunity for me to return in the future.
Monthor- TIME OUT! Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 3:27:59 PM
ooc> Seeya Princess. We'll miss you.
However.... are we prepared to continue on with just 4 players? Should we pause until we can pick up a couple more? We'll be 3-4 short now from a full party. DM?
DMJK Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 4:14:18 PM
I'll get Jerry to recruit for the game, but in the meantime, we can continue.
Draax Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 10:44:21 PM
OOC: Seeya, it has been fun gaming with you.
Draax shakes Feng's hand, "It has been a honor traveling with you; maybe our paths will cross again."
Turning his attention back to the bandits, Draax laughs along with them. He replies to the two with laughter still on his voice. "I think one of us is mistaken and I guess we will soon find out which one it is. I would be inclined to let you two just sit here if Lord Arrak did not tell us about his farm and what your group did to the farmers. So you have 3 choices, you can surrender and be escorted to the local authorities, you can refuse and kill me and then here for as long as you like, or you can refuse and I kill you." Still with laughter on his voice, "I am not in a hurry so take a few seconds to make up your minds."
Draax lazily pulls his sword and readies his shield. Although he is ready to battle he has a very bored look on his face.
Arien Wednesday August 23rd, 2006 11:44:23 PM
"Fare thee well, Feng, may justice always guide your blade." Arien turns and surveys who is left, so many friends have left over the years and just these three others still remain. Arien wonders what the future will hold and whether friends long missing will return or if new ones will be met.
Returning his attention to the bandits Arien says, "Oh I don't think I can make you move, I know that I can make you move. Tell me how much do you like having fireballs being cast at you? Being struck by bolts of lightning? How about being frozen where you stand? I can offer all of these as a goad to get you moving. So what say you shall you be moved or will we have to offer some...encouragement?"
Monthor Thursday August 24th, 2006 9:22:24 AM
The dwarf crosses his arms across his massive chest and walks up next to Arien.
"... And me be Mr. Encouragement. "
He gives then a menacing growl to puncture his statement.
Tratain Thursday August 24th, 2006 1:11:12 PM
Tratain says "Farewell Feng, we will still be here when you decide to return, until then good journeys."
Tratain then watches what will happen between Draax and teh Bandits, if they fight Tratain will help Draax.
OOC: Its been fun Walter, comeback soon!
Feng Friday August 25th, 2006 11:48:33 AM
The paladin shakes everybodies hand, wishing them luck on their travels. He slides into the saddle of his warhorse and rides off.
ooc: Bye all. Things should be a bit easier now without a paladin getting in the way of with his hard stance of acceptable conduct.
Unmoving Bandits (DMJK) Monday August 28th, 2006 12:39:08 PM
As Feng makes his departure, the bandit on the left looks at at the party members, "Are you daft, or do you not know where you are? We're not moving and there's not a thing you can do about it."
The other one sticks his tongue out at the group and adds, "I think I smell sweaty dwarf."
DMJK Monday August 28th, 2006 12:47:59 PM
[I've put in the recruitment request, but I'd like also like to hear opinions on recruitment vs merging with another game.]
Monthor Monday August 28th, 2006 1:36:37 PM
:: Monthor pats the flat of his axe against his palm. ::
" Sweaty is it? That's what ye momma said to me last night as well me chum. Ye have her eyes by the way. Why don't ye come over here to say hi.... "
ooc> I'm for recruiting. We still have a decent group. We just need to balance it out a bit. We're good in the magic user/cleric department. We need a thief (if Renik's not coming back) and a few more tanks.
Tratain Monday August 28th, 2006 4:43:20 PM
Tratain says "Lets just leave them here, we'll send in the autorities later, while Moving them wouldn't be very troublesome though."
OOC:I'm for either Merging or Recruiting. Merging Temporarily with another game may be best as it can take a while to get us up to a fuller party, if we need to split off again later we could always do that.
Arien Monday August 28th, 2006 7:57:14 PM
"They aren't worth the bother thats true, I say we just go along and alert the authorities as you said Tratain." Arien looks at the bandits a moment then waits for the others to decide what they want to do.
Draax Monday August 28th, 2006 10:43:25 PM
Draax listens to the others and looks back at the two bandits. To the bandits he says, "Some people would say that I am daft and sometime I agree with them, but that has nothing to do with this situation. You are correct, we cannot make you leave the only choice that we have is whether we leave you alive or dead. I vote for dead."
To the group he says in a voice loud enough for the bandits to hear, "I would love to just leave them, but I would hate to find that they robbed or killed someone else before the authorities could get to them. I would settle for them agreeing to give up all their weapons until the authorities came. If they do not agree to that, I could not in good conscience just leave them here to cause havoc to some innocent that may cross their path."
OOC: I would not mind either, merging or recruiting is fine with me.
ADM Joe Monday August 28th, 2006 11:27:25 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Aug 25,2006
Name MTWTF DM JK XX Draax XX Monthor XX Tratain OX Feng OX Arian OX
Fengs Leaving the Game got our posting thrown a little off Track, Only two posts that week. With only 4 of us I think we might want to Merge with another Game.
Brazen Bandits (DMJK) Tuesday August 29th, 2006 4:11:33 PM
The bandit on the left says, "Unless you've unlocked the ancient Teucri magic when nobody else can, then you can't move us, apprehend us, or harm us while we are on this road. So move along, I'm sick of your prattle."
The one on the right adds, "Do your worst you fleabitten chuckleheads!"
This earns him a response from his companion, "Chuckleheads?!? What kind of bloodthirsty bandit calls people chuckleheads?"
"I'm not bloodthirsty, just a bit hot."
Draax d20+24=32 d8+12=18 Tuesday August 29th, 2006 6:53:57 PM
Draax smiles as the bandits explain themselves, "Wow! Thanks, that is nice to know. Forgive me if I do not take your word and find out the truth for myself." Although Draax believes the bandits, he decides to test a theory. He raises his sword, but he does attack the bandits, he aims for their food and water.
If he cannot attack their supplies and there are no consequences, he shrugs his shoulder, sits down next to the bandits and begins helping himself to their food as if they were old friends.
Monthor Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:21:22 AM
The dwarf waits to see what the others do. He readies an attack (axe, two handed, power attack -5, +10) if needed.
Tratain Wednesday August 30th, 2006 5:01:56 PM
Tratain says "Lets not waste our time here now, if they don't go turn themselves into the authorities right now so be it. They can't stay on this road forever. Arien and I have spells that Can deal with them and we don't need to be anywhere near them to set the spells upon them."
Tratain turns to the Bandits "Last chance you can go turn yourselves in right now. Like I told my friends, unless you plan to live on this road forever we can find you. You only get this one chance to turn yourselves in, I won't feel bad at all killing you if you leave this road and don't surrender. We can find you whereever you go."
Saferoad (DMJK) Wednesday August 30th, 2006 5:50:03 PM
Draax swings his sword at the bandits' supplies, but his sword stops suddenly as if he hit a brick wall. The hilts of the weapon burns in his hand, and he thinks better of trying a second time.
The bandits laugh, "Teucri safe roads! Nobody believes it til they try it. Hunt us later if you like, but we're staying here for now."
You've now experienced two effects of this Teucri road, speedy travel and its protective effect.
Dukes, lords, and trees await. Unless you'd rather wait the bandits out or try other methods of apprehending them.
Draax Wednesday August 30th, 2006 7:39:46 PM
Draax sheaths his sword and smiles at his friends, "That was interesting, learn something new everyday. I guess I wasted enough of you guys time, I am ready to go." As they head down the road, Draax waves bye to the bandits, "Having a nice stay on the road guys. Kill you later."
Monthor Wednesday August 30th, 2006 9:19:30 PM
Monthor follows Draax. However, he can't help to adding....
" Me be saying 'Hi' for ye to yer mom tonight."
Arien Thursday August 31st, 2006 1:36:02 AM
Arien simply walks away from the bandits, he feels no need to add what has already been said, the bandit's leader was dead, their friends devoured, and their options limited enough that Arien doubted that anything that could be done would be any worse that what was likely to happen to the pair anyway.
Monthor ooc> Thursday August 31st, 2006 7:38:45 AM
Any word from Cayzle re: our bonus XPs and her points yet? [that's a big NOPE. I'll pester him again. -jk]
Down the Road (DMJK) Thursday August 31st, 2006 5:07:42 PM
The party leaves the bandits and moves on down the ancient Teucri safe road. The afternoon is relatively pleasant, and the travel is fast.
Before long you arrive at a crossroads. One way lies Monthor's duke. Lord Arrak's estate and the mystery tree lie down the other path.
Tratain Thursday August 31st, 2006 11:21:16 PM
Tratain says "well I think that we should visit Lord Arraks and Looks for our Tree first, since the Duke had that funeral today. I think it would be very bad form of us to go drop in right now so Monthor can fight him."
Draax Friday September 1st, 2006 7:35:22 AM
Draax listens to Tain, "Sounds good to me. We will also know that the funeral is over when the Duke returns. Lets gives the Duke a couple of days of mourning before Monthor tries to teach him some manners. While we are there, we can pass on the information about the two lazy bandits."
Monthor Friday September 1st, 2006 7:36:50 AM
" Agreed. Me'll go see Dooky later."
Arien Friday September 1st, 2006 9:26:41 AM
"Well then, lets find this tree and see what we can discover about it and the one near our home." Arien strides off, eager to find this tree.
ADM Joe Monday September 4th, 2006 9:03:24 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Sept 1st, 2006
Name MTWTF DM JK xxxx Draax xxxx Monthor xxxx Tratain xxox Arian xoxx
4 Posts this week, are we on hold pending the outcome of Jerry Merge vs Recruite descision?
Another Invitation: DMJK Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:24:13 AM
The party decides to visit Lord Arrak first and continues on down the road without following the path to Duke Kolo's.
A few hundred yards after this fork, the party encounters a man standing in the middle of the road. He's dressed in blue and yellow livery and looks to be some lord's servant. As the party approaches, he raises his right hand and calls out, "Good day, gentlemen." He bows low and then addresses Monthor, "Forgive me for asking what might seem a rude question, Master Dwarf, but would you happen to be the 'Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix'? My master feared that you might not find the road to his estate, hidden as it is out past the vineyards. Consequently, he bid me wait here on the road so that I might accompany you to his estate to ensure that you will not miss out on his hospitality this evening."
Tratain Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:47:48 AM
Tratain shrugs "We had heard that the Dukes Mother Died and the funeral was today, we were going to visit Lord Arrak first and come back in a few days to give the Duke some time to Mourn, but I guess not now. If he want's to see you that badly Monthor I guess we'd better go now."
Draax Tuesday September 5th, 2006 1:55:28 PM
Draax begins to laugh when he hears what the duke's servant has to say. "Wow! I guess the Duke is as eager to see you as you are to see him. At least he gave you a title, Sir Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix; I wonder what the Coat-of-Arms for the estate will look like." When he stops laughing, Draax agrees with Tain.
"Lead the way Sir Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix."
Monthor Tuesday September 5th, 2006 7:12:55 PM
:: Monthor gets a very serious look on his face and looks at Draax ::
" The Coar of Arms would be a one fingered salute over my foot up someone's arse. "
:: Since obviously Monthor couldn't keep a straight face after saying something so ridiculous, the "I'll mannared dwarf" breaks out in a very loud belly laugh. ::
" And me not from Hoomwix. Me from Dirt City. Darn humans can't get anything right. "
" Lead on me good man. It would be ill mannared for us to be late for tea and crumpets. "
:: Monthor follows the servant. Just to accentuate his last comments, Monthor walks along with his pinky pointing up and his nose up in the air. ::
DMJK Wednesday September 6th, 2006 10:45:32 AM
The man clearly has no idea what everyone is joking about, but he smiles and says, "Very well, gentlemen. If you would be so kind as to follow me."
He leads the group back to the fork in the road and heads east. The Gnowsy Vineyards lay off to your right (south). The road is another branch of the safe road, so travel is swift. There's also little chance that anyone could miss this road. There's nothing hidden about it.
After moving past the fork, the servant adds, "You mentioned visiting the Lord Arrak. It might please you to know that he is visiting Duke Kolo to pay his respects. I expect you will be able to visit him here."
The journey is quick, but evening is approaching by the time you reach the fort. You can't help but note that the structure is a working fortification, not merely the palace of some well to do lord. It sits on the edge of the plateau and is clearly meant to fight off invaders from down below. Nevertheless, a thick wall surrounds the keep.
Your guide calls out a greeting as you approach the gates, and they swing open on well oiled hinges. One of the guards calls out, "Is that an ill-mannered dwarf with you Bren?" The other guards near the gate laugh.
Looking about the fort, you notice about 20 soldiers involved in the various tasks necessary to the operation of the facility.
Your guide, who is apparently named Bren, leads you to the keep and escorts you inside where you are met by a seneschal. He bows and introduces himself as Murec at which point Bren turns you over and leaves.
Murec smiles, "We have had quarters prepared in anticipation of your arrival. I'm afraid His Grace will be dining at the Estate-Below-the-Wall, but you are welcome to dine with the officers in the Small Hall. I can show you to your rooms or straight to the meal as you wish. Also, should you be in want of anything while you are here, please let me know how I might be of service."
Draax Wednesday September 6th, 2006 2:24:08 PM
As they pass through the gate, Draax smiles at the guard's remarks. He leans over to Monthor and whispers, "You definitely have to make him pay for that remark."
When Brin leaves and the group is shown the hospitality of the estate, Draax says, "If I would have known that having a grievance with royalty would give us this type of treatment, I would have done it years ago myself."
Monthor Wednesday September 6th, 2006 7:32:57 PM
" Me thanks Mullet. Me would like some beers please. And lots of them.
" Hey Draax. Maybe me will kick his ars too after me done with Dooky. "
:: Monthor suddenly becomes somber. ::
" However, me thinks of offering Dooky a way out of the fight. If he be willing to shake me hand and have a drink with me then me'll let things go. Me hate to beat up anyone just after they're momma died. Mommas are special people. It's a shame to beat up someone that just lost his momma. "
Arien Thursday September 7th, 2006 12:42:10 AM
Arien rises an eyebrow at the guard's remark, apparently the confrontation from earlier had clearly made the rounds within the guardsmen. Shaking his head slightly with a bemused smile on his face, Arien follows Murec to their rooms when the Seneschal is ready to take them.
Tratain Thursday September 7th, 2006 7:32:04 AM
Tratain heads to the Dining hall and sits and eats a little. Afterwards he wanders about the Fort and looks for Men-at-Arms Training and sees if they will spar with him, so that he can gauge thier overall level of training. He also asks about the Duke and how skilled he is.
DMJK Thursday September 7th, 2006 4:05:51 PM
The group receives two rooms. They are clean if not incredibly comfortable. Each contains a pair of single beds with a footlocker. You gather the rooms are the type used by sergeants or lesser officers.
Tratain heads to the dining hall along with whoever accompanies him. It seems to be for the use of officers. The food is good and hearty, but there's little fancy about it. They make beer available for Monthor but not in sufficient quantity for him to enjoy it... or become too dangerous.
Tratain finds a number of people willing to talk with him in the dining hall and about the fort. It's not long before he finds a few who will spar with him.
Tratain feels that they are competent as soldiers. Clearly the post is military in nature, and discipline is required. Equipment is well maintained, and the men have trained well enough that Tratain doesn't envy anyone that would try to make an assault up the plateau.
The men discuss their duke freely. They seem as respectful of him as they would be of any lord who commanded them. Tratain hears a few grumbles and a few praises but nothing that would suggest either mutiny or sincere adoration. The same is not true for their captain who rode with Kolo. They seem to genuinely care for him, and they boast that he's as good a swordsman as Valdor the Dragonstone. They note that Kolo is quite skilled as well and regularly trains with the soldiers, very few of whom have ever defeated him in a sparring match.
Monthor Friday September 8th, 2006 12:07:39 PM
Monthor goes looking for more beer....
ooc> Nothing else really to add at this point.
Tratain Friday September 8th, 2006 5:32:59 PM
Tratain ask about the Captain with the soldiers he is sparing with, after he is done he sits around with the off duty ones and tells stories and listens to the soldiers stories until the Duke arrives or everyone gets Tired, whichever comes first.
Draax Friday September 8th, 2006 6:55:08 PM
Draax spends some time walking around the estate and then goes to observe Tain sparring with the duke's men. He wonders if the duke will take Monthor's offer of peace, Draax remembers when he mother died and he would have loved to have someone to hit to take his frustrations out on. Whether they fight or shake hands, as long as no one dies, Draax feels that the hospitality the group received is worth the detour from finding the tree.
Gilan - DMJK Monday September 11th, 2006 4:47:29 PM
Tratain tried to find out a bit about the Gilan, Kolo's Captain, as he exercises with the men. They're full of stories about Gilan's bravery during the War of Ascension. They have a variety of tales, but it seems the majority of them focus on his ability to achieve victory without costing too many of his own men.
As night approaches, Gilan arrives. Tratain and Draax notice that he is able to greet all of his men by name, but he is preoccupied with some duty. Once he finds Monthor, his task seems clear. He has a letter for the dwarf.
The letter appears to be written by Kolo's own hand, "I regret that I am unable to entertain you and your companions properly this evening. I am otherwise engaged at my family's estate on the lower plateau. I will return to Hammerhold in the morning. I would be most delighted if we could settle our dispute just after breakfast. Gilan, the bearer of this letter, shall be my second. He may negotiate the terms of our contest."
Once Monthor has read the letter, Gilan speaks, "I'd suggest that your contest judge the opponents' skill rather than their wealth. Consequently, consider banning all magic from the fight. Kolo undoubtedly has a better array of magic items at his disposal, so I expect accepting this suggestion lies in your best interest. What do you have in mind for weapons and armament? Personally, I'd suggest sticks so that maybe the two of you will knock some sense into each other."
Monthor Monday September 11th, 2006 8:47:00 PM
" No magic it is then. But me'd also say, no weapon!!!!! Me not looking to kill Dooky. Just to knock him down a peg or two. Me would want to arm wrestle Dooky. No.... let's have a slap fight!!! We slap each other in the face until one of us cries uncle!!! Maybe we should indian leg wrestle? Or thumb wrestle???!!!???
Enough jockularity. Here's me offer. We go hand to hand. No weapons. No armour. His wizard check me out for magic. Me wizard checks him out. We meet in a marked off area in the training yard. We fight. Winner is the first one that gives up or can't get up to a 10 count. Oh, and me want that big silent swordsman to referee the match. Him me can trust. What says ye? "
Take your corners! (DMJK) Tuesday September 12th, 2006 5:26:32 PM
"I'm the big silent swordsman. I'm the duke's second, so I can't be the referee. Your other terms are acceptable."
Night falls. People sleep. Morning comes.
Hammerhold is all abuzz about the upcoming match. Draax overhears some betting talk. It seems the soldiers are wagering on the match and giving 2:1 odds that the duke will win.
Trumpets announce the duke's arrival at the fort in midmorning. A crowd begins gathering in the training yard as the match is set to begin. The men cheer the duke as he enters the training yard. His clothing looks much like what the Brothers of Domi wear when they wrestle their brethren. Indeed, Tratain notices that he wears the symbol of Domi about his neck.
He takes his corner in the yard and looks about for Monthor. Captain Gilan stands with him.
The observant in the group notice that Lord Arrak has also arrived in Hammerhold to watch the match.
Tratain Tuesday September 12th, 2006 6:52:34 PM
Tratain Sits with the others to watch the match. He notices the Dukes symbol and cloths and says "Well at least the match should be interesting, though Monthor may be in a little trouble haveing chosen to fight unarmed. It looks like the Duke has trained with my fellow Brothers of Domi."
ADM Joe Tuesday September 12th, 2006 6:57:10 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Sept 8th, 2006
Name MTWTF DM JK OXXX- Draax -XXX- Monthor -XXX- Tratain -XXX- Arian -OXO-
Only 3 DM posts this week, ARien only posted once this week, need to work on that a bit.
Monthor (HP 124 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 7:07:25 PM
The
Monthor (HP 124, AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility), Endurance Tuesday September 12th, 2006 7:19:36 PM
Monthor enters the yard wearing only his breaches. With his 1/2 ear missing and the scar running diagnally over his right eye, Monthor makes quite the ugly sight. Interestingly enough, it looks like Monthor found himself some more beer. The only thing that the dwarf brought along with him is a full tankard.
" Hiya Dooky!!!" Monthor bellows from across the yard.
" Sorry about your mom. I'm sur she was a nice lady. Me'll try not to hurt ye to much. Loser buys the first round of beers after the frey... 'k? "
:: Monthor waves Arien over and indicates that he wants his friend to check the duke over for magic. ::
" Hey Gillian! Me won't rough up your boy to much. Just keep him honest 'k?"
:: Monthor limbers up in his corner while he waits for Arien to do the deed. ::
Draax Tuesday September 12th, 2006 11:33:25 PM
Draax goes around and bets up to a 1000 gold on Monthor. He heads to the match and stands in Monthor's corner. When he notices Lord Arrak, he nods his head is greeting to the lord and then turns his attention back to the match. He has a towel on his arm, but he guesses that he only job will be to hold Monthor's tankard.
DMJK Wednesday September 13th, 2006 5:53:30 PM
No mages detect any magic, at least not on Monthor or Kolo.
Kolo steps into the fighting circle and calls out to Monthor, "Alright, master dwarf. Are you ready for your lesson in manners? Mayhap, I can teach you a thing or two about insulting and harrassing people for no reason."
He readies himself and seems prepared to let Monthor make the first move.
-------------- Meanwhile, Draax rounds the yard looking to bet on Monthor. It seems 1000 gold is a bit much for this crowd. 25 gold seems a tremendous wager for most of the soldiers, and many of them have already placed bets with their fellows. However, after a number of bets, he manages to wager a total of 475 gold.
The Chaplain of Hammerhold finds Tratain before the match. He's a fellow priest of Domi. He nods to Tratain and says, "Greetings Brother. I'm Wengryn. Sorry that I wasn't able to greet you last night. I was at the Duke's estate for the funeral. Should be an interesting match... though I haven't really been able to figure out what it's all about."
A ragged looking soldier asks Arien, "How come wizards always wear dresses sweetie?"
Monthor ((HP 124, AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility), Endurance d20+12=24 d3=3 d20+7=27 d20+7=23 d3=1 d3=3 d20-2=15 d3=3 Wednesday September 13th, 2006 7:15:42 PM
" Alright Dooky. Let's go. "
:: Monthor advances slowly and waits until he gets unto range before attacking. He paces a bit and tries to take Dooky's measure. He advances a bit more and then let's a flurry of punches go towards Dooky. ::
ooc> I'm making a number of assumptions here. A. Dooky is letting him advance close enough that he lets Monthor take the first shot(s). B. Monthor will get his full round attacks because Dooky is letting him advance towards him.
Power attack at -5
1st attack Hits AC 24 for 12 (role 3, str bonus 4, power attack 5)damage
2nd attack Crit threat for a natural 20. Then Hits AC 23 for 22 damage (Damage X2 for the crit.)
3rd attack Hits AC 15 for 12 damage.
(46 sub damage if all three attacks count and if they all hit. )
Draax Wednesday September 13th, 2006 9:22:36 PM
As the fight begins, Draax gets comfortable and watches the action.
Arien Thursday September 14th, 2006 1:59:21 AM
The elven warmage studies the soldier for a moment, trying to decide if the human was making a joke or trying to get Arien mad. Human humor being so odd Arien decides it must be a joke and responds in kind, "Well its simple, if the common folk," Arien looks at the soldier meaningfully, "ever realized just how majestic we wizards were there would be general despair. So to keep society functioning, we wizards wear 'dresses'."
Tratain Thursday September 14th, 2006 11:16:57 AM
Tratain says "Greetings Brother Wengryn, my Name is Tratain. This fight? Well we were on line at the lifts when the Duke came through, rather faster than he should have on his horse. He was scattering the people there in his haste, we didn't like that much. Monthor just happened to be faster than the rest of us and stood in his way. The Duke didn't take kindly to that, and instead of listening to what we had to say got Mad, and it went from there." Tratain Shrugs
"Well it does look like it will be a good match, does the Duke train with the followers of Domi here often?"
Kolo (DMJK) Thursday September 14th, 2006 4:31:53 PM
Kolo seems to let Monthor pound him with a fury, but then he sidesteps the last blow. He twists his head and cracks his neck and looks at Monthor.
"Is that all you have dwarf?"
He smiles as he adds, "You punch like an elf. I'd better let you have a few more free shots or else they won't let you be a dwarf anymore."
He stands there waiting.
Audience (DMJK) Thursday September 14th, 2006 4:46:13 PM
The soldiers glares at Arien for a moment and then he laughs. He turns back to watch the match, but Arien hears him say something about "girly elves."
Wengryn listens to Tratain, "The duke's version is a bit different. He was in a hurry to his mother's funeral and already running late because one of the orphanages he supports in Plateau City had a fire. He stopped to see that the children were safe and helped find a place for them to stay until their old lodging could be repaired. He was very close with his mother and aggravated that he might not arrive for the ceremony in time. As such, he rode to the front of the lift line, which is a right he holds as a Defender of the Plateaus, and your friend acosted him for reasons beyond the duke's comprehension. The rest as you say is history I suppose."
"As for the other question, he's a close follower of Domi."
Monthor ((HP 124, AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility) d20+12=25 d3=2 d20+7=14 d3=2 d20-2=0 Thursday September 14th, 2006 10:06:27 PM
Monthor looks somewhat stunned. The duke took two of the best punches the dwarf could muster and he's still standing. Monthor pauses for a second... and then laughs.
" Good one Dooky! You trash talk like a Dirt City brawler and take a punch like a dwarf. If ye didn't endanger those people on the Plateau by your foolishness me might even offer you a draw... "
:: Monthor shrugs ::
" But since ya did almost hurt those people... "
:: Monthor swings again. ::
Power -5, +5
1st attack AC 25 Damage 11
2nd attack AC 14 Damage 11
3rd attack Swings and a miss AC0
ooc> Not that it matters, but with the power attack, can it lead to a negative bonus? Or would the third attack be -3,+3?
[I believe if the bonus is negative that you lose the attack, but I'd have to look it up to be sure. -jk]
Draax Thursday September 14th, 2006 10:17:11 PM
Draax watches the fight and then get irritated with himself for not bringing any food or drink. When he is sure that Monthor is turned away from him and concentrating on the fight, Draax takes a quick sip from Monthor's tankard.
Arien Friday September 15th, 2006 2:43:57 AM
Content to be left to his own devices Arien relaxes as he watches the developing brawl. Physical combat didn't interest the mage much but he felt beholdened to watch his friend's duel.
Tratain Friday September 15th, 2006 7:35:25 AM
Tratain shrugs at Wengryn's words, "I think that his mothers death troubles him alot. He sounds like a very good person from everything that we have heard, but I don't see any way we I can look at his actions and see him as anything other than someone who's just looking for a fight. Its too bad, everyone seems to hold him in high reguard, I don't think he see's our point at all. He could have really injured someone at the lifts."
Kolo (DMJK) d20+15=21 d8=6 2d6(2+6)+2=10 Friday September 15th, 2006 5:17:12 PM
This time, Kolo blocks Monthor's first punch with a sweep from his forearm. He completely dodges the other two. He responds with a single punch aimed at the dwarf's nose. He hits harder than it looks like he would. "You move slow, dwarf." The crowd cheers for their liege.
He moves fluidly and provokes no attacks of opportunity. (hits AC21, dmg16)
Watching the way Kolo moves, Tratain has no doubt that the duke has studied unarmed combat with the monks of Domi. Wengryn continues his conversation, "I wasn't there, so I couldn't begin to guess who has the right of it. I suspect everyone overreacted."
Draax discovers Monthor's drink to be cool and refreshing.
As Arien's mind wanders from the fight, he notices Lord Arrak watching the crowd rather than the fight. There's something unusual about the man, but except for the fact that the detect magic spells at the beginning of the fight lit Arrak up like noonday sun, there doesn't seem to be much extraordinary about him.
Arien Saturday September 16th, 2006 1:03:31 AM
Arien notices the lord's behavior and wonders what the man's motive was. The fight itself didn't seem to be what was occupying his mind. Arien was tempted to cast detect magic again and study the man but erred on the side of caution lest the soldiers think Arien was trying to alter to outcome of the match. Instead Arien searches out the lord's mage should the mage be present and introduces himself.
Draax Saturday September 16th, 2006 2:49:17 PM
Draax gets into watches the fight and forgets that the drink he is holding is not his. He cringes as the duke gets in a solid hit. Draax begins to openly drink from the tankard as he shouts encouragement to the dwarf. "Stick and weave; stick and weave".
Monthor ((HP 108 AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility) d20+17=29 d3=3 d20+13=33 d20+13=27 d3=1 d3=3 d20+7=12 d3=2 d20-2=2 Sunday September 17th, 2006 8:50:46 PM
Monthor shakes his head a bit after Dooky's hit. No way a human could have hit him that hard without some help.
Monthor decides to forgo the power attacks for this round and try the finess route.
1st attack hits AC 29 for 7 damage 2nd attack Critical threat (33) Hits AC 27 for 12 damage. 3rd attack hits AC 12 for 6
(Spot check to see if he notices that Draax is drinking his beer. 2)
Kolo (DMJK) d20+15=25 d8+2=9 2d6(3+1)=4 Monday September 18th, 2006 10:38:10 AM
Kolo's forearm knocks Monthor's first blow to the side so that it doesn't connect, but nothing can stop the dwarf's second attack. However, the duke twists in such a way that it doesn't do critical damage, and he easily dances out of the way of the third strike.
Kolo smiles, "Much better. With a bit of practice, you would be quite phenomenal. I imagine that you are most fearsome with your axe."
Again, the duke only responds with a single fluid strike. This one hits Monthor in the solar plexus (AC25,dmg13).
Watching the fight, Draax realizes that Kolo isn't hitting as hard as Monthor, but he's striking with precision. He hits where he knows it will hurt and is sacrifing a multitude of attacks for a single accurate one.
Arien notes that Kolo didn't bring a mage with him. The duke either seems to have had faith that Monthor would abide by the rules, or he didn't care. As for the Lord Arrak, he sees Arien and smiles. Perhaps he's disinterested in the fight for reasons similar to Arien. However, he demonstrated in the clearing that he clearly has skill as a melee combatant.
Wengryn keeps up the commentary with Tratain, "The duke seems to be relaxing a bit. Perhaps he just needed to focus his mind on something besides his mother for a bit. Perchance, he might become friends with your group. He's not a bad man to know, but I suspect your dwarf friend might carry a grudge. Seems some dwarves can carry a grudge for a long time."
Monthor ((HP 95 AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility d20+17=21 d20-2=17 d20+17=28 d20+17=24 d20+17=37 Monday September 18th, 2006 2:16:38 PM
Monthor's not to happy that so many of his punches are missing the target. He decides to change tactic again and tries to grab Dooky.
Grapple check 21 (ooc> Well, that sucks!)
But before he does that, he takes a quick look to see how his beer's doing (spot 17. Oh, why couldn't I role that before!)
ooc> Can I use a Hero points here to re role the grapple? If so, check 28. If that fails, he burns another hero point... 24... and his last one.... 37!!!!! Natural 20!!! Monthor's cool during the fight but his handler (ME!!!!) isn't so much. BTW, still waiting on the hero points and bonus XP from Cayzle.
Tratain d20+11=13 Monday September 18th, 2006 3:53:13 PM
Tratain says "I was thinking the Duke needed to take his mind off things aswell. I don't think Monthor will hold a grudge, two of the things he likes most are Fighting and Drinking, as long as the Duke finds him some more ale after the fight since it looks like Draax is drinking his current Mug full."
Draax Monday September 18th, 2006 4:33:58 PM
Draax is surprised by Kolo's unarmed fighting skills; he wonders if the man was trained by monks. It is clear that the duke has had a lot more unarmed training that Monthor.
Draax looks inside the tankard and notices that most of the drink is gone; he could have sworn that it was almost full when Monthor gave it to him. He looks on the ground to make sure that he did not spill any. Not finding any wet spots on the ground Draax shrugs his shoulders and finishes off the rest just as he notices Monthor try to grab the duke.
DMJK Monday September 18th, 2006 5:31:14 PM
(bah, now I have to go read the Woldian grapple rules. We have special grapple rules in the wold if anybody didn't know: http://www.woldiangames.com/constabulary/special.htm. In any case, you can use the hero points, and I'll go pester Cayzle again.)
Monthor occ d20+13=26 Monday September 18th, 2006 7:26:03 PM
Stupid rules :-) Grapple check is base 13, +4 strength, -4 (just because the dumb rules say so.) Grapple check 26.
Juliander d20+15=29 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 1:18:57 AM
Attracted by the crowd of onlookers, Juliander wanders in that general direction, slipping through the crowd to get a better look at what they're all watching. The sight of a nobleman beating on a particularly ugly dwarf, who is making what appears to be an attempt to fight back is less then amusing to him however. Watching a bit longer, he ascertains that this is someone's silly idea of a duel. Juliander's gaze silently passes over the crowd to get a general idea of its constituency. Nearly 6 feet in height he should have a pretty good view of the general folk here. (OOC: Sense Motive DC 29)
Monthor occ> Tuesday September 19th, 2006 10:22:39 AM
Welcome new player.
ADM Joe Tuesday September 19th, 2006 12:12:35 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Sept 15th, 2006
Name MTWTF DM JK XXXXX Draax OXXXX Monthor XXXXX Tratain OXXXO Arian OOXXX
Arien Tuesday September 19th, 2006 9:22:03 PM
Noting Lord Arrak's similar disinterest in the bout Arien makes his way over towards the man and after introducing himself again, asks how his traveling went after they parted ways.
DMJK d20+15=28 d8+2=6 2d6(4+6)=10 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 9:33:53 AM
Monthor can't get a good grip on his opponent, and Kolo dances back away from the dwarf and punches him again. (hits AC28, dmg 16)
Arrak has a kind greeting for Arien and claims, "It's a pleasure to meet you again. I do hope you're still planning to visit me with this sport is over... See that tall fellow over there? Do you know him? He's certainly not one of Hammerhold's soldiers, and he wasn't a funeral guest. I've been wondering what brings him to this fine," he gestures to the crowd, "assemblage."
Juliander studies the crowd, and with the knowledge that he's in Hammerhold, an out of the way military fort guarding one of the ascension points on New Elenna's Second Plateau, he's pretty certain that nearly everyone in this crowd is a soldier. They seem to be watching this fight for entertainment value. Only the combatants and those who have placed wagers seem to have a vested interest in who wins. He does make a note of a few people that look to be visitors like himself: the party members, Kolo's retinue, and Lord Arrak.
(Kolo's grapple DC (per Woldian house rules) is 28)
Monthor ((HP 79 AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility d20+17=21 d3=1 d20+13=25 d3=2 d20+7=21 d3=3 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 11:44:49 AM
Monthor gets a little frustrated at his inability to grab the Dook. He would have loved to pin him down and dropped a few elbows on him. Since that didn't work, he decides to try to pound away at him again.
Attack 1 Ac 21 for 4
Attack 2 AC 25 for 6
Attack 3 AC 21 for 7
ooc> All likely missed. {Grrrr}
Juliander Wednesday September 20th, 2006 9:08:54 PM
Not interested in the sport of soldiers, Juliander quickly winds his way through the crowd toward those who appear to be just visiting.
Juliander is just over six feet tall and lanky in build. He has meticulously cared for short black hair, and jade green eyes that suggest elven heritage, though perhaps twice or even three times removed. He currently wears a plain traveling outfit of tan breeches, dark brown boots, and a moss green tunic. The only notable clothing apparent is a fine jade green cloak and gloves (matches his eyes), with silver trim that seem clean despite his otherwise road-worn appearance. A rapier hangs off his left hip, worn with apparent comfort, and a crossbow is lashed to the back of his pack and quiver.
Draax Thursday September 21st, 2006 12:09:44 AM
After watching the first couple of minutes of the fight, it is plan for Draax to see what the outcome will be unless Monthor lands a haymaker. Draax decides to concentrate on the duke's movement and it is easy to see that the duke is fast enough to strike multiply times, but the duke is throwing one precise punch and saving the rest of his speed to counter Monthor's attacks. Kolo has the dwarf's rhythm and if dwarf does not change up it will be a long day.
Looking at the empty tankard, Draax decides that he could at least have a full tankard waiting for the dwarf when the fight is over. Draax slips away for the fight and goes to look for someone that can show him where to full the tankard or full it for him.
Kolo (DMJK) (atk1) d20+18=36 (atk2)d20+18=35 (atk3,threat)d20+13=33 (atk3,crit)d20+13=30 (atk4,miss)d20+8=12 (atk5)d20+3=20 (dmg1)d8+2=9 (dmg2)d8+2=5 (dmg3)d8+2=9 (crit3)d8+2=7 (dmg5)d8+2=5 Thursday September 21st, 2006 10:43:54 AM
Kolo shifts his stance slightly. He still blocks Monthor's blows, but like Draax, he seems to be growing impatient with the speed of the contest. He attacks Monthor with a flurry of kicks and punches rather than his previous single strike.
Monthor deflects at least one blow, but most find their mark. (44 dmg total)
In the midst of his assault, Kolo remarks, "You can't win dwarf. We can stop when you apologize for accosting me without cause."
-------------------
After receiving a few jokes about drinking too much ale right after breakfast, Draax is told that the nearest supply is in the kitchens. He'll have to leave the yard to find it.
Juliander approaches the rest of the group.
Draax Thursday September 21st, 2006 10:56:20 AM
Draax joins in the laughter and says with humor in his voice, "You would drink too if you loss as much money as I am about to, I need something to console me." He hesitates for a moment as he decides whether to see the end of the fight or get the liquid that the dwarf will surely need in a few moments. Deciding on the latter, Draax go to the kitchen to get the drink before going back to the contest.
Tratain Thursday September 21st, 2006 11:31:44 AM
Tratain says "Huh, the Duke is much better at Hand to hand combat than I thought he would be. I suspect Monthor would have fared better had he chosen to use weapons, with the Dukes Training with the Monks it seems like an unfair fight."
Arien Thursday September 21st, 2006 8:24:39 PM
Arien spends a time studying the person Lord Arrak indicated before replying, "He is not someone I am familiar with, no. I suspect however," Arien says noting the man's approaching of the others, "that we shall find more about our mysterious fellow soon."
Juliander d20+26=46 Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:56:16 AM
Approaching Lord Arrak, Juliander bows deeply, "Greetings my lord, it is on a fair day that I greet thee, though I see the proceedings here are those born of hostility. My name is Juliander Phaelix, and I'm newly arrived to these parts, though they feel familiar all the same. A simple minstrel by trade, I travel where the wind blows, and find myself fortunate enough to have arrived amongst such august personages as yourselves. Might I inquire as to the incident that would give cause to such an occasion?" Juliander indicates the ongoing fisticuffs match. (OOC: Diplomacy check DC 46)
Monthor((HP 35 AC 13 (14 with dodge)(18 with Mobility) Friday September 22nd, 2006 11:34:44 AM
That last barrage of blows has really thrown off Monthor. While he is enjoying the frey he just can't seem to get why the Duke is getting so many shots in.
Kolo remarks, "You can't win dwarf. We can stop when you apologize for accosting me without cause."
" Without cause!!!" Monthor retorts loudly enough in his dwarven voice for all to hear. " Your horses were pushing the people back towards the edge of the plateau. Me was concerned that yous was gonna cause someone to die. Yeah Dooky, yous had the right to go first. But you either didn't notice or didnt' care that yous was endangering some of the people there. What if someone had gone over the side and died Dooky? How would your money have fixed that? Me sorry that your momma died. She must have been a very nice lady. But your sadness make your forget to use the senses that me be sur she gave you. Maybe me was rude... but what' better? A rude dwarf or a dead citizen?"
:: Monthor throws his arms up in the air. ::
" Me not sorry for what me did since me and me boys thought that ye was going to cause someone to die. Me probably could have handled it a bit better. Me will apolagize for me 'rudeness' Dooky if ye take back what ye said about me people. Many a dwarf has laid their lives down for you humans. Take it back and then we can shake hands and have ourselves a few drinks in your mommas' memory. "
:: Monthor takes a defensive stance and readies himself for an attack from the Duke. ::
" Otherwise Dooky, ye can come at me. "
Bitter Words (DMJK) Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:15:29 PM
Kolo stops and stares at Monthor for a moment, "You put the people on the ledge in danger when you grabbed my horse. The press toward the ledge was caused when people backed away from us. That would never happened without your rash behavior. The danger on that ledge was caused by YOU! The horses might be large, but the people moved out of the way. It's not like I shouted at them to clear the way for their betters. Did you think I was going to trample over someone for no reason!? That's absurd. If you hadn't rushed in ready to fight, nothing would have happened at all except that I would have given some people a free ride since I made them wait for an extra lift." He starts to calm himself down, "I will appologize for calling dwarves unmannerly, but I think you should revise your opinion of dukes."
Draax is just to the door to go inside when the boxing turns into shouting.
As the episode unfolds, Wengryn remarks to Tratrain, "Kolo's just as good with light weapons: rapiers, daggers, and such. It's heavy weapons he doesn't have much expertise with."
Arrak eyes Juliander for a second and then laughs, "You certainly have a flowery way with words. I look forward to watching you converse with the dwarf. As for the incidents that bring us here today, I think it's the combination of a funeral and a pair of tempers."
Monthor Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:37:03 PM
:: The dwarf starts to bellow loudly. So loud in fact that he has to clutch his side in pain. The combination of the laughter and the Duke's strikes have apparently made them tender. ::
" DONE THEN!!!! "
:: Monthor brings both of his massive arms straight up and clasps his hands in the air. ::
" Dooky, me appolagies for me rude temper! It honestly looked to me and me boys like someone was going to be hurt."
:: Monthor rubs his side a bit more... ::
Me like ye Dooky. Yah hit like a dwarf! "
:: Monthor extends his hand in friendship. ::
" Let's go get a drink! "
Arien Saturday September 23rd, 2006 8:45:58 PM
Arien chuckels along with Lord Arrak a moment before adding in, "Lord Arrak is quite correct, a funeral and a pair of tempers indeed." Arien holds out his hand in greeting, "I am Arien Silverbow, one of the companions of said dwarf, I am pleased to meet you Juliander Phaelix."
Draax Sunday September 24th, 2006 6:30:47 PM
Hearing the commotion, Draax realizes that the contest has come to an end. He shrugs his shoulders and heads back toward the contest to see what will happen next and to pay off his debts. He figures that most of the men that are not required to return to duty will be getting something to drink and he is sure the dwarf will be joining them.
Juliander Monday September 25th, 2006 6:07:02 PM
Juliander takes Arien's hand and firmly shakes, then turns his head toward the contest briefly, "It appears as though the tempers of the combatants are somewhat diminished. Perhaps whatever passes for good ale in these parts will bring this day's contest to an amicable close." Bowing, "Lord Arrak... Arien... I'd be honored if you'd let me buy the first round."
Monthor Wednesday September 27th, 2006 8:05:27 AM
ooc> What's the hold up?
invitation to lunch (DMJK) Wednesday September 27th, 2006 9:24:44 AM
"Well, since we all had the welfare of others in mind, I think you are all invited to stay for a bit. This is a fort rather than a lush estate, but you're welcome to the hospitality we can provide. I prefer not to keep drink during the day myself. I don't allow the men to do so, and I follow the same rules. However, the rules don't apply to visitors, and we can probably find something to answer your thirsts. I'd also be delighted if you'd all join me for lunch. I suspect it should be ready soon. I have a more private dining hall than the one that you ate in last night. It should provide us with a chance to get to know one another through friendlier conversation. Lord Arrak, you are welcome to stay as well, and let me thank you again for coming to my mother's funeral. Brother Wengryn, you're always welcome as well."
Hearing the invitations, Gilan send a runner ahead to the kitchens. He shadows the duke but doesn't intrude upon the conversation.
Kolo continues "Now, you all know a bit about me I imagine, so why don't you tell me about yourselves. What brings down from Plateau City? Work? Adventure? A quest? You don't look like you're all headed to the same family reunion."
Monthor Thursday September 28th, 2006 9:45:48 AM
" Family reunion? BWHAHAHAHAHA!!!!"
:: Monthor give the Duke a friendly pat on the back. ::
" Good one Dooky! "
:: The dwarf stands up on his toes and puts on some mocking airs. ::
" Why yes Dooky, this here be me sister Draax. We grow them tall and ugly in me clan. "
:: Monthor bellows in laughter again. ::
" We be what's left of the Windhorn Hamleteers Dooky. And me job is to make sur that the rest of the boys stay alive. "
Draax Thursday September 28th, 2006 3:39:13 PM
Draax frowns as he looks at Monthor, "Hey! I resent that remark about being tall."
He grins as he turns to address the duke. "We came down from our place in Plateau to solve a little mystery. A tree mystically appeared in a picture of one the waterfalls without the artist drawing it. We believe that the tree is some kind of message to us, so we decided to find the tree and see if it has anything to do with us. We had nothing else going on, so this is sort of a vacation."
Kolo (DMJK) Thursday September 28th, 2006 5:37:17 PM
"What's left of the Windorn Hamletters? I was under the impression that Windhorn Hamlet was still a thriving community. Has there been some trouble there?"
Arien Thursday September 28th, 2006 7:49:04 PM
Arien nods in agreement with Draax and then adds, "I know this is a bit off topic but I would like to introduce a new friend, Juliander. I believe he might be up for a bit of mystery solving." Arien looks at the man expectantly.
Draax Thursday September 28th, 2006 8:26:22 PM
Draax smiles as the duke takes Monthor statement literally, "Windorn Hamlet has been through it touch times in the past, but as far as I know it is still thriving. The Windorn Hamleteers is the name of our little adventuring group because at the time it was formed, the majority of the members lived in Windorn Hamlet. Although, that is not the case at the moment, we have yet to chance the name."
Monthor Thursday September 28th, 2006 9:05:07 PM
" How about 'Monthor's Angels'? That would be a really good name. "
Juliander Thursday September 28th, 2006 11:51:30 PM
The human snorts in genuine amusement, "Angels? that would imply divine origin for yourself master dwarf... and I can't say that... well... to put it delicately... um... you're somewhat less than divine... in appearance at any rate." Juliander's grin is apparent, even though he does his best to maintain a straight face. Turning to Arien, "What mystery? There is a mystery? I'm actually quite fond of puzzles myself... if you need assistance, I'd be happy to lend a hand. I don't seem to have any pressing engagements, outside of lunch that is."
Monthor Friday September 29th, 2006 7:54:22 AM
Monthor sizes up the new commer. Likely the only thing keeping him from giving him the back of his hand is the fact that he came with Arien.
" Gee, you sur talk pretty Julie."
:: Monthor puffs his chest out and attempts to looks menacing... ::
" Don't be using big words when talking to us dumb dwarves Julie.... Me may be ugly but me momma always called me HER angel.... "
:: Monthor pauses..... and then starts to bellow.... ::
" Relax human. Monthor's face may be ugly but me heart is pure. Me like to bash orcs and rude people but me like cuddly animals and dumb fragil humans... just ask Arien. "
" Draax! Where's me beer!"
Juliander Friday September 29th, 2006 9:00:37 AM
Laughing with Monthor, and not at him, "Actually Monthor, as dwarves go you're rather refreshing. And to be quite honest... when it comes to looks, you're what I've come to expect from such a unique race." Juliander smiles easily, and appears about as relaxed as your typical house cat.
Kolo (DMJK) Friday September 29th, 2006 4:41:37 PM
"It's an odd sort of name for an adventuring group especially if you don't live there, but do as you like. If you ever try picking a new name, You might pick something just a bit more catchy."
"So, tell me about this tree you're looking for. I don't profess to know much about trees, but if it's an unusual one near here perhaps I know it. Does it produce some rare wood that you need for a magic bow or perhaps it gives a rare fruit needed for some mysterious potion!"
The duke might be joking. You don't really know him well enough to say.
As the conversation continues, the duke has lunch prepared.
Arrak and Gilan converse quietly amongst themselves so that you can't hear what they're saying. They don't appear to be discussing anything sinister, but they're also both listening to the party's conversation.
Wengryn is here as well, but he looks a bit bored.
Draax Saturday September 30th, 2006 12:58:19 AM
Draax nods a greeting to Juliander, "We are not sure what the mystery is or if it is just our imagination, but you help is welcome. I do not know what to say about the tree except that a similar one just appeared out of nowhere on our property. The painter had no idea how the tree appeared in his painting and that was too much of a coincidence for us to just let it pass. We were trying to find the correct waterfall when the 'Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix' confronted the duke."
Draax laughs opening at his last remark and then he hears Monthor remark about his beer. Many different lies go through his head before he decides to tell the truth. "Uh I got so into watching the fight that I kinda drank it."
Looking a little sheepish Draax offers Monthor the empty tankard. "I was going to rush to get you another, but the fight was over before I could and since the duke invited us to lunch I knew you could get something to drink here. But I do want to compliment you on your taste in beer, it was very good." He moves his chair away from Monthor when he says that last bit.
Monthor Saturday September 30th, 2006 7:02:23 AM
Monthor looks very angrily at Draax... and then shrugs. After all, how could her remain made at one of Monthor's Angels.
" Good was it? Draax me boy... me suggests that ye find a way to replenish this tankard soon... or me will have to give ye the king... or in this case, the duke... of all atomic wedgies. Savy me? "
Draax Sunday October 1st, 2006 8:52:31 PM
Draax looks at Monthor a little confused and then he narrows his eyes; he has no idea what the dwarf just said to him, but decides to play around with it. "Hey! I do not know what you may have heard, but I am not into any of that kinky dwarven stuff. You will have to play your ah-tum-mick wedggie games with some one else and maybe that person will give you a savy."
Draax sits there straining to keep a straight face.
Tratain Sunday October 1st, 2006 10:08:13 PM
Tratain listens to the Banter between Draax and Monthor and smiles. He hopes that Draax can find Monthor some Ale soon to smooth things over.
Monthor Monday October 2nd, 2006 8:12:03 AM
Monthor walks up close to Draax and looks up at the fighter. After all, dwarves ARE short by human standard.
" What me saying Draax old girl is if ye don't refill me mug me will pull your breeches up over your head and sovereign glue them to your forhead. "
:: The grin on Monthor's face is hard to figure out. Is the dwarf serious? Or is he playing with Draax? ::
" From what I'm told... that can be rather uncomfortable for males. "
Kolo (DMJK) Monday October 2nd, 2006 3:33:49 PM
Kolo listens to Draax explain about the tree and says, "Well that doesn't give me much to go on. I can't say that I know much about trees, but I concur that they shouldn't just appear out of nowhere. You mentioned a painting. Perhaps you still have it? Even so, there's only three waterfalls of significance in the plateaus, and you've already looked at one of them. They're all on the same river too, so you don't have many places to look."
--------------------------------
OOC: I'll be out of town for work Wed-Fri. I'll try to post in that time, but I don't know what kind of internet access I'll have. Our new players should be coming into the game very soon. I'll emphasize roleplay for a few more days until they're all ready to go, and then we'll jump headfirst into the adventuring.
Monthor Monday October 2nd, 2006 5:32:35 PM
ooc> Can we still go to the Catacombs?
Juliander Monday October 2nd, 2006 8:19:09 PM
"I'm not sure that I recall a waterfall being near here, though I know quite a few stories about waterfalls. Allow me the chance to think on such a quandry before saying further. Kolo, I don't suppose that you know of a waterfall in this general vicinity that we may not have seen yet."
OOC: How do I make a bardic knowledge check in the Wold, or will you make them for me as appropriate JK? I'm comfortable with you making them, if that is the case.
Draax Monday October 2nd, 2006 10:32:53 PM
Draax imagines Monthor grabbing Draax's breeches and jumping up to tack them on his forehead. The image is so laughable that Draax uses addressing the duke as a way to keep from laughing. "That what we learned, we decided to look at the waterfalls one at a time and hope the tree is at one of them. Unless Tratain brought the painting with him, I believe it is still hanging at our residence. We were on our way to the second falls when we ran into the bandits that robbed Lord Arrak's people. They tried to rob us too, but we were a little more than they could handle. Some beast came along while we were fighting them so it was a three way battle until Lord Arrak came and did in a few seconds what we had already spent a few minutes trying."
Looking towards Lord Arrak, "That reminds me, two of the bandits that ran away were on the road a little away from the spot where we first met you. We could not touch them because of the magic placed on the road. The leaders of the gang are dead, but if you ever wanted to get you hands on the remainder of the group, the road would be a good place to check."
Looking back at Monthor, Draax raises his hands up in surrender, "OK, I know how ugly you dwarves get when you do not have something to drink and looking at you at the moment emphasizes that fact." Draax takes the tankard back from Monthor and smiles as he turns to the others, "If you lords will excuse me for a moment, I want to personally refill the ill-mannered dwarf's tankard before he start licking his own sweat to get some alcohol." Draax heads to the kitchen and ask to have the tankard filled with beer and he also asks for a second tankard to be filled with beer.
Arien Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 1:17:12 AM
"I've heard," Arien says to no one in particular, "That the reason that dwarves consume so much ale is because if one of them were fully sober and were to by accident see his own reflection he would instantly keel over dead from fright." Arien glances slightly at Monthor as he finishes his statement, a small smile on the elven wizard's face.
Recap - DMJK Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 10:25:00 AM
Kolo answers Juliander, "There's a small stream or two that can create little waterfalls in the Dragonridge Hills, but the only big waterfalls are on the Brinkwater."
Hearing this, Aarak speaks up, "The Dragonridge is rocky. There aren't many big trees there like what they are looking for."
The only waterfalls of significance in New Elenna are the points where the Brinkwater River flows down the plateaus. This is common knowledge that anyone should know. Those who were present at the meeting with the painter should remember that he indicated the name of the waterfall was the Brinkwater Falls. The group has already examined the waterfall off the first plateau at Hoomwix. Next is the the fall of the second plateau at Gooddiamond, and last in the the fall of the third plateau at Troiemaret.
Juliander, Highlight to display spoiler: {If anyone thinks to mention the name, you will know that many people refer to the waterfall at Gooddiamond as Brinkwater Falls since it is the first waterfall downstream of the Brink which gives the river it's name. However, it is actually called Diamond Falls.}
The group is currently about six miles east of the river at Hammerhold on the eastern side of the second plateau.
[You can go to the catacombs any time, but the items won't be available until we come to a town or other area with merchants. Roll lore checks any time you wish, and I'll fill in details as appropriate.]
Monthor Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 3:32:15 PM
Draax "We were on our way to the second falls when we ran into the bandits that robbed Lord Arrak's people. They tried to rob us too, but we were a little more than they could handle."
Monthor " And a poor bunch they were. Even the magic using girley. Hardly worth bloodying me axe one. Oh well, at least they won't be bothering anyone else."
......
Draax "The leaders of the gang are dead, but if you ever wanted to get you hands on the remainder of the group, the road would be a good place to check."
Monthor " Indeeeeed. "
..........
Draax ""If you lords will excuse me for a moment, I want to personally refill the ill-mannered dwarf's tankard before he start licking his own sweat to get some alcohol."
Monthor
:: Mockingly... :: " Would that really work?"
----------------- Arien "I've heard," Arien says to no one in particular, "That the reason that dwarves consume so much ale is because if one of them were fully sober and were to by accident see his own reflection he would instantly keel over dead from fright." Arien glances slightly at Monthor as he finishes his statement, a small smile on the elven wizard's face.
Monthor
:: The dwarf looks over at Arien in astonishment. Could the little mage have actually cracked a joke? ::
" No me friend. While we would keel over from fright it wouldn't be because of how we look. It would be from thirst. "
" Me? Ugly? Now me angels... me be the prettiest one here!!! It's ye frail ones that be ugly. Although.... you do get prettier the more me drink. "
ADM Joe Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 6:46:57 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet For week of Sept 29th, 2006
Name MTWTF DM JK OOXXX Draax --XXX Monthor --XXX Tratain --OOX Arian --OXO Juliander --OXO
Off Posting for us, sorry for being late with the Report, RL was really hectic last week, things are better now. New People being added to the Game, Welcome and lets get this game going back to where we were in the past.
Tratain Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 6:47:56 PM
Tratain listens to what is said and replies, "Well after lunch or maybe tomorrow we can head to the Waterfall you all suggest, perhapse that one is the one we are looking for."
Draax Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 8:32:42 PM
Draax returns to the group with two tankards full of beer and places them both in front of Monthor. "The first one is to ease away some of the ugliness and the second one is for when the first one does not work"
Turning to Tratain Draax says, "Sounds like a good plan to me."
Draax Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 8:35:19 PM
Draax returns to the group with two tankards full of beer and places them both in front of Monthor. "The first one is to ease away some of the ugliness and the second one is for when the first one does not work"
Turning to Tratain Draax says, "Sounds like a good plan to me."
Juliander Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 10:49:23 PM
"Which of the three falls would you like to visit first? Did the artist of the painting mention the subject with which he was working? That might be helpful information."
Arien Tuesday October 3rd, 2006 11:03:07 PM
Arien chuckles a bit at Monthor's response and replies, "It figures that a dwarf would dehydrate that fast, what with the never keeping their mouth shut." Arien pretends to ponder a moment and then snaps his fingers as if he's had an idea, "I know, we can create our own army of dehydrated dwarves. We can carry them around in a bag that says In case of emergency pour in Ale and run! We could even call this army Monthor's Dehydrated Dwarven Death Squad."
Monthor ooc> Wednesday October 4th, 2006 7:49:46 AM
Due to a death in the family I'll be leaving tomorrow morning and returning Sunday or Monday. Please carry on without Monthor until then.
Yves/Monthor
Arrak (DMJK) Wednesday October 4th, 2006 12:18:38 PM
A steward comes in and discusses something that is apparently of some import to Duke Kolo. They speak in whispered tones, and then Kolo excuses himself for a moment, "Something pressing has come up. Do stay and enjoy yourselves. I'll return shortly." He leaves, and Gilan follows him.
The departure shifts Lord Arrak's attention to the group. "So, I gather that you will be visiting Diamond Falls next? Given the hour, I fear you'll be hard pressed to make it before the lifts close at nightfall. The invitation to stay at my estate is still open should you wish to stay there tonight. It would only take you a few hours to reach the lifts from there in the morning."
(Sorry to hear that Yves.)
Juliander Wednesday October 4th, 2006 8:48:05 PM
"I don't see any need to rush off to the falls, though being a relative newcomer, I'm hesitant to speak for the group. What say you gentle folk? Sleep and off in the morning? or shall we chance it now and camp at Diamond Falls? Seems to me that Diamond Falls is also the falls more commonly referred to as Brinkwater Falls. Perhaps we'll have luck there in our endeavor."
OOC: Um JK, you may want to read your post for Arrak and edit as necessary. THX lol -jk
Draax Thursday October 5th, 2006 1:20:19 AM
Draax watches the duke leave and listens to the lord's offer. After Juliander has made his statement, Draax looks questionable at the rest of the group to see if they agree with Juliander's assessment. "Leaving tomorrow would probably be better and we did promise to visit Lord Arrak's estate. Like Juliander said, we are not in any rush, so I am for waiting until tomorrow. What about the rest of you?"
Arrak (DMJK) Thursday October 5th, 2006 10:28:53 AM
"What I meant was that we should leave today for my estate, which is near the Dragon Ridge. Then you would have an easy journey on the morrow to Good Diamond and your waterfall."
Juliander Thursday October 5th, 2006 8:42:58 PM
Silence among the rest of the group is Juliander's cue to jump in it seems, "Excellent, good Sir Draax and I are agreed, and since the rest of you are quiet, so it shall be," the fair man announces amicably. "Do lead on Lord Arrak."
Draax Thursday October 5th, 2006 10:47:00 PM
Draax rolls his eyes at Juliander type of speech. "Uh yea, what he just said."
Tratain Friday October 6th, 2006 11:16:48 AM
Tratain says "Aye, that would be best. I'd Like to visit Lord Arrak's and since its on the way to the falls we could stop there on the way."
Arien Saturday October 7th, 2006 2:45:01 PM
"I agree as well, and no offence to Duke Kolo but I think we should head out shortly" Arien looks at the other members to see if they agree.
Monthor - back in the saddle... Saturday October 7th, 2006 9:50:21 PM
Monthor approaches Arien...
" Before we go... could ye be kind enough to teleport me to the Catacombs. Me be looking to buy a cape of the Mountebank. It's dimension door ability should let me avoid more of the little problem me had with that cage the last time. "
Departure (DMJK) Tuesday October 10th, 2006 1:59:24 PM
Kolo returns as everyone is making plans for their departure. "So, you're leaving so soon? Very well, I've had some important matters to attend to myself. Feel free to visit any time you wish. We don't have many comforts here in Hammerhold, but we always welcome visitors."
He holds out his hand for Monthor, "Master Dwarf, the circumstances of our meeting were strained, but I believe we're kindred spirits... of a sort. I hope that you'll call on me if ever you have need. Mention to any of my men that you're the Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix, and from this day forward you'll have their service." His smile indicates that he means the name as an honor rather than a further insult.
While Kolo speaks, Arrak has a few more silent words for Gilan. Then he rises, "As you saw yesterday, I travel light. I have no baggage except what is on my person and may leave when you are all ready."
Everything seems ready for departure, but if you wish to do anything before your departure, mention it now.
[let's hold off on the Catacombs visit. we'll get it soon enough. I'm thinking we can wrap up this tree and waterfall thing quickly and start off on a bigger module once the new players are ready.]
Draax Tuesday October 10th, 2006 10:52:45 PM
Draax smiles as the group get ready to depart, "Thanks you Duke Kolo for you hospitality. Although our little place in Plateau City could not live up to the kindness you bestowed on us, we would still like to extend you an open invitation if you find yourself in the area."
After saying his goodbyes, Draax is ready to leave.
Arien Wednesday October 11th, 2006 8:53:05 AM
Arien adds his thanks for the hospitality and adds as well that if Kolo needed any magical assistance in the future that Arien would be glad to help as best he could. Then Arien turns to the rest of the party and gives them an inquiring look to see if they are ready to leave.
Tratain Wednesday October 11th, 2006 11:03:28 AM
Tratain Nods to the other to show that he is ready to travel. "We should leave soon, so we do not have to spend alot of time traveling in the dark."
Monthor Wednesday October 11th, 2006 2:47:52 PM
He holds out his hand for Monthor, "Master Dwarf, the circumstances of our meeting were strained, but I believe we're kindred spirits... of a sort. I hope that you'll call on me if ever you have need. Mention to any of my men that you're the Ill-Mannered Dwarf of Hoomwix, and from this day forward you'll have their service." His smile indicates that he means the name as an honor rather than a further insult.
:: Monthor gladely accepts the Duke's hand and even forgoes his usual "squeezing until they cry" handshake ritual. ::
" You not a bad sort yourself Dooky. If ye ever need help yerself, ye can count on Monthor's Angels to come running. "
On the road (DMJK) Wednesday October 11th, 2006 5:51:28 PM
The party leaves Hammerhold and resumes its journey upon the safe road with Lord Arrak riding along.
Though he was rather quiet in Hammerhold, he now seems ready to talk with the group, "So gentlemen, tell me a little bit about yourselves. I know that Monthor is impatient, that you have little love for bandits, and that you are searching for a tree, but what else should I know about your merry band? I may have some extremely well paying work for you if I like what I hear."
Juliander Wednesday October 11th, 2006 10:45:54 PM
"I don't know that I'm officially apart of this merry little band yet sir, but I like what I've seen so far. I don't get the opportunity to speak with many dwarves, but I will say that Monthor is everything that Mom ever said about dwarves... and somewhat more." Juliander smiles, "As for myself, I'm a man of many talents... I prefer to think of myself as a gentleman adventurer, if such a thing were to exist, it would be me. Though it doesn't do to give up the well earned secrets of my trade, I'll say that I do well in a variety of situations, particularly when I have worthy allies, such as these." Juliander gestures to the rest of the group.
Draax Thursday October 12th, 2006 1:23:40 AM
Draax ponders Lord Arrak's request, "Hmm...I am not sure how to answer that. This group has changed a few members over the years and we have worked for various people in power or for people in need. Sometime for money and sometime because it was the right thing to do. Personally, I get a great feeling of satisfaction every time we stick it to the Son of Dread. The SoD and I have a continuous history; they like to try to take over or destroy the wold and my friends and I take get pleasure in stopping them. Recently we did our little part in the Fey King business.
There is nothing else that I can think to say except that we do work for money, but we will not do anything that we do not believe in."
Draax looks to the others to hear what they have to say.
Monthor Thursday October 12th, 2006 8:24:08 AM
" Ye need to know that Monthor's Angels are a tough bunch of drinker, lovers, protectors and when the need be there, fighters. Mainly, me job is to keep the other girls here alive. As long as your 'work' is relatively honest me be certain that we can handle it. "
CDM Jerry Thursday October 12th, 2006 1:03:03 PM
I see no report from Monday friends. I need the ADM to please make the report for this game and post it here. When it's posted, I need the ADM to email me saying it's done please.
:)
Tratain Thursday October 12th, 2006 11:34:12 PM
Tratain says "I've been Traveling with Draax and Arien here for a while, we met fighting a Dragon. Then we had that business with the Sons of Dread and then after that the Fey King thing."
ADM Joe Thursday October 12th, 2006 11:38:35 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet
Name MTWTF DM JK XXXX- Draax XXXX- Monthor OXOX- Tratain OXOX- Arian XXOX- Juliander XXXX-
Sorry for slacking again, missed my chance to post monday, and then it becomes hard for me to post again for a bit sometimes
DMJK Monday October 16th, 2006 1:19:26 PM
No worries, Joe. My posting last week was abyssmal. I try to do it at work, but sometimes it just doesn't fit. In any case, the new players are nearly on board, so let's ratchet it up a notch.
the gnomes - DMJK Monday October 16th, 2006 1:42:24 PM
Arrak leads the group down the Safe Road past Middleden, the stagnant water of the Brink, and Brinkwater. After Brinkwater, he takes the eastern fork of the safe road and follows it around Lake Wellogy. Before the road bends back to the west, he takes a side road that leads out into the Dragonridge Hills.
When the group is out of sight of the road, the party encounters a small band of gnomes. They greet Lord Arrak with a good deal of reverence and address him as if he were a priest, "Welcome home, Patriarch. We've heard the bandits received justice."
For his part, Arrak nods to the gnomes and turns back to the party, "These are my subjects. If you'd be so kind as to follow them, they'll take you to my home. I have one quick matter to attend to, and I'll meet you there."
Draax Monday October 16th, 2006 3:32:56 PM
Seeing the gnomes, Draax tries to keep the surprise from showing on his face, but he is pretty sure he failed. To Lord Arrak's instruction to follow the gnomes, Draax nods his head and follows without saying a word.
Monthor Monday October 16th, 2006 8:40:46 PM
" Gee, creatures shorter then me!?! Okay Monthor's Angels, let's follow the lawn gnomes to Lordy's house. "
Tratian Tuesday October 17th, 2006 4:41:15 PM
Tratain is surprised to find that gnomes are Lord Arrak's subjects and work in his household but keeps the question to himself for now.
ADM Joe Tuesday October 17th, 2006 4:49:17 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet
Name MTWTF DM JK -XX-- Draax -XX-- Monthor -XX-- Tratain -XX-- Arian -XO-- Juliander -OX--
We're Reving up for the new players now, shouldn't be long before we're back at full strength and off to adventuring. Everyone please make an effort to get our game back on track.
DMJK Tuesday October 17th, 2006 6:31:27 PM
Arrak leaves the group and heads back up the path toward town, and the little band of gnomes leads the group towards the hills. The gnomes talk to themselves on the journey, but the language they speak is unusual to say the least. It's certainly not gnomish - or dwarvish for that matter.
Every now and again, the one that spoke to Arrak turns back to the group and says, "This way. This way."
As they lead the party forward, it seems that you are getting farther from civilization. As you enter the Dragonridge Hills, the land becomes even more wild, and the road you follow turns into little more than a beaten track. There's no sign at all that you are approaching some lord's estate.
Draax Tuesday October 17th, 2006 10:22:44 PM
Draax becomes suspicious and a little nervous as the group is being lead into the middle of nowhere. The dagger he keeps up his sleeve comes easily into his hand and he begins to nonchalantly use it to pick his fingernails as they walk.
Juliander d20+23=31 d20+22=38 d20+15=28 Tuesday October 17th, 2006 10:46:26 PM
As they're walking along, Juliander starts humming a tune, and then begins singing an elven traveling song, to mask the fact that he is actually casting comprehend languages. He really doesn't like the fact that he cannot understand the gnomes. All the while he attempts to get a bead on their intentions. (OOC: Perform DC 31, Bluff DC 38, Sense Motive DC 28.)
Arien Wednesday October 18th, 2006 1:11:37 AM
The elven mage follows the gnomes, but keeps his guard up. Arien trusts Arrak since he had no reason not to thus far but monsters frequently lurk in the wilds.
Monthor Wednesday October 18th, 2006 7:46:38 AM
Monthor follows along wondering if the gnomes are going to have some mead for him to drink.
:: Monthor says to no one in particular... :: " Are we there yet? "
Tratain Wednesday October 18th, 2006 10:48:52 AM
Tratain follows the Gnomes, taking in the sites. He is not concerned that he can't understand the gnomes or that he doesn't see Lord Arrak's estate. Maybe its hidden somewhere closeby.
A Cave (DMJK) Wednesday October 18th, 2006 4:32:55 PM
Draax's dagger play doesn't seem to concern the gnomes in the slightest, and when Juliander casts his spell, he discovers that the gnomes are engaged in a rather mundane conversation about to best cook a particular mushroom dish. From listening, he gathers that whatever language they are using is their native tongue.
They lead the group up into the hills and eventually come to a cave. The lead gnome turns and says, "In here. It's dark. Do you need light?"
Monthor Wednesday October 18th, 2006 5:45:53 PM
" Are ye kidding me? Me be a dwarf after all! Then again, maybe the rest of me Angels do? "
Juliander Wednesday October 18th, 2006 8:49:52 PM
Juliander shrugs thinking to himself, Feh! Gnomes! He happily trudges along until they get to the cave. "Light would be nice."
Draax Wednesday October 18th, 2006 10:16:47 PM
Draax narrows his eyes when he sees the cave entrance. He wonders how in the world did the bandits find this place and how Lord Arrak expected them to be able to just stop by when they had the time.
He nods his head in agreement with Juliander,"Yea, a little light would not hurt."
Lord Arrak's "estate" (DMJK) Thursday October 19th, 2006 5:34:58 PM
One of the gnomes heads into the cave and returns a moment later with a lantern. He motions for everyone to follow him and heads into the cave.
The cave mouth is only about three feet across and seven feet high, and it would be easy to miss if you didn't know where it was. The interior of the cave is dry and dark. There's nothing unusual about the cave itself. It exhibits all the traits you've come to expect to find in a cave. The entry chamber is roughly 10 feet wide, 20 feet long, and has an 8 foot ceiling.
The gnomes lead the way to the back wall, which appears to feature a very solid wall. However, after quickly touching a series of points along the wall, a secret door opens up on silent hinges. The gnomes lead the way into a hallway that was clearly carved out of the rock, unless a cave naturally formed a long hallway at perfect right angles. Monthor doesn't think the construction looks dwarven, most likely gnomes built it.
After 30 feet or so, the gnomes come to a door. One lays a hand upon it and speaks a word in their odd tongue. The next door swings open, and light floods into the hallway. The light comes from a number of glowing orbs positioned around a large chamber filled with ornate rugs and lavish tapestries.
There are a number of plush looking leather chairs positioned about the room and a few lush, green potted plants as well. All together the effect is almost startling. If you didn't known for certain that you had just entered a cave, you wouldn't know that you weren't in some interior room of a lord's palace.
Four other doors open up onto the room, and after entering, all of the gnomes, save the one that has been speaking to you, head out the leftmost door. The remaining gnome gestures to the chairs, "Please have a seat. I'm sure the Patriarch will return with haste. Would you care for refreshments while you wait?"
Draax Thursday October 19th, 2006 6:40:21 PM
Draax makes sure the surprise that he feels from stepping into the room does not show on his face. He takes a sit when it is offered and nods his head at the mention of refreshments. "Refreshment would be nice, thanks."
Monthor Thursday October 19th, 2006 7:36:30 PM
Monthor lips his lips in anticipation before taking a seat.
" Beer oh gnomish ones. And lots of it. "
Juliander Thursday October 19th, 2006 9:29:54 PM
Surprised indeed to see the interior of the chamber, Juliander has a seat, "I'm with Monthor, a good strong ale would be divine."
Arien Thursday October 19th, 2006 10:44:08 PM
Arien is impressed by the chamber and takes a seat as well. When asked Arien replies, "Only water please, I prefer to keep my wits about me."
service (DMJK) Friday October 20th, 2006 4:58:55 PM
The gnome leaves a returns a few minutes later with the requested drinks. The beer is good and cool, but there's a faint taste of sulfur in the water.
After bringing the drinks, the gnome excuses himself. He closes the door when he leaves, and the group is left alone.
The minutes pass, and you can't help but wonder if you've just been trapped in some posh cell.
Arien Friday October 20th, 2006 7:48:23 PM
Arien sips the water for a moment then sets the drink down and moves to one wall to inspect the tapestries there.
Draax Saturday October 21st, 2006 3:35:48 PM
Draax's suspicious nature begins to surface, he does not believe that Arrak plans to do any harm to the group, but this reminds him of a tactic that his old employee Marcus might have used. The longer they wait the more dangerous the task the Patriarch will ask of them. Draax smiles as he thinks about the confidence it takes to follow someone you do not know blindly into a situation like this, or is it stupidity.
Having no idea about how long they might have to wait, Draax joins Arien in inspecting the tapestries.
Juliander Sunday October 22nd, 2006 4:46:25 AM
Juliander remains silent though relaxed. He is certain, for the moment anyway, that Arrak's motives are less then insidious.
Monthor Sunday October 22nd, 2006 12:57:46 PM
And Monthor... being Monthor... continues to drink.
Newcomers (DMJK) Monday October 23rd, 2006 5:56:06 PM
There's nothing special about the tapestries, but they do appear to be finely made.
After about 30 minutes, Arrak enters the chamber through the same door the party entered. He has two men with him. "I hope you've all found my home welcoming. I know it's a bit unusual. I must also beg you to excuse me for making you wait for me, but I met these two gentlemen nearby. They were most gracious to accept my invitation for dinner." He motions to the two who were following him, "I do hope that you all find each other's company to be pleasurable. Why don't you all take a moment to get aquainted, and then I'll tell you of my business proposition."
[This is the not so subtle new character entry. Still waiting on one sheet.]
Draax Tuesday October 24th, 2006 12:51:56 AM
Draax turns his attention to Lord Arrak and his guest. He goes back to his seat and takes a sip of his drink. Looking at the newcomers, Draax raises his hand in a gesture of greeting and says, "Nice to meet you; my name is Draax."
Lord Arrak's words finally register with Draax and he realizes that these two were brought here for the same reason as the group.
Jerry Tuesday October 24th, 2006 4:56:28 PM
I need David Taylor to check his emails please. We have a tap ready to go and need his help in getting it started. :)
delete once David gets this.
Email me JK if he's out of pocket for some reason that you know about.
Arrak (DMJK) Tuesday October 24th, 2006 5:45:59 PM
Arrak looks around the group, "Now don't everyone talk at once."
Draax Tuesday October 24th, 2006 7:20:14 PM
Seeing the newcomers, Draax puts his suspicious nature away as he begins to think that Arrak was not trying to play mental games with the group. He continues to sit as he waits for the newcomers and the others to make their introductions.
Monthor Tuesday October 24th, 2006 8:15:16 PM
Monthor hardly raises his eyes from the cup and waves a hardy "hello" to the new folks.
" Me be Monthor. And these girlies are Monthor's Angels. Have a seat and down a drink. "
Tratain Tuesday October 24th, 2006 9:37:09 PM
Tratain says "Greetings, My name is Tratain, a follower of Domi. It's nice to meet you."
ADM Joe Tuesday October 24th, 2006 9:42:04 PM
Game #2 Windhorn Hamlet
Name MTWTF DM JK XXXXX Draax XXXXX Monthor XXXXX Tratain XXOOO Arian OXOXX Juliander OXXXX
We're starting to pick up posting again, mine fell off towords the end of the week, I'll make a better effort to try and keep my posting regular and budget my time better.
Izen Tuesday October 24th, 2006 9:55:32 PM
The halfling that followed Lord Arrak into the room sat quietly and studied the others. He rolled a copper coin on the backs of his fingers with one hand, while his other hand scratched at the three-day growth of stubble on his face. His dark brown eyes revealed nothing--nor did the simple, sturdy brown clothes that he wore, or the brown pack he wore on his back. The rapier at his side and the javelin at his shoulder said enough for themselves, however.
At last, the halfling glanced at their host. "You said there was money involved," he said. The words came out low and had a breathy quality to them.
Juliander Tuesday October 24th, 2006 10:24:38 PM
Juliander stands, "I thought it best to allow those officially a part of the group to introduce themselves first, though I would say they don't seem to be particularly talkative for the moment. For myself, I've recently met these good folk, just as you do so now. My name is Juliander Phaelix."
Juliander is just over six feet tall and lanky in build. He has meticulously cared for short black hair, and jade green eyes that suggest elven heritage, though perhaps twice or even three times removed. He currently wears a plain traveling outfit of tan breeches, dark brown boots, and a moss green tunic. The only notable clothing apparent is a fine jade green cloak and gloves (matches his eyes), with silver trim that seem clean despite his otherwise road-worn appearance. A rapier hangs off his left hip, worn with apparent comfort, and a crossbow is lashed to the back of his pack and quiver, which currently rest beside the chair he was sitting in.
Monthor Wednesday October 25th, 2006 9:35:35 AM
ooc> Just to add a description of Monthor.
:: Monthor is ugly, even by dwarven standards, and sports a variety of scars and other assorted battle wounds over his face and body. The red string tying his long beard denotes membership in the Dirt City Axe Head clan. Monthor's obviously the group's "tank" being dresed in full plate armour. The large dwarven war axe to his side looks well used. A large ornated belt is around is ample belly and heavy leather gauntlets are on his massive dwarven hands.
Arrak (DMJK) Wednesday October 25th, 2006 7:05:58 PM
Arrak turns to address Izen, "Master Izen, I said nothing about money. I said you would find my offer worth your while. If money is your only concern, you may go." He nods to the door everyone came through.
To the rest of the group, he says, "This quiet fellow in the fancy cloak is Jova and claims to be a sorceror of some reknown."
"Now before I begin, tell me what you know already about the Sons of Dread. I don't wish to bore you with things you already know."
Jova Kon Thursday October 26th, 2006 12:38:19 AM
The very tall human, 6 and a half feet tall, rises from his squatting position when Arack points him out.
"Hello, hello, yes i am Jova KOn. Sorcerer, blah!! I said I could do magic tricks. You kow it is all relative. Depends on who you talk to and ehen you talk to them.
"Oh!! Case in point. Look at thois dwarf. Ugly by most standards, yep most figure him disgusting. Although those who have travelled the dwarven nations know, he is about normal. Another few years of development, then i would say he is ugly. But at the moment short stack, you are not." Hahaha, he bursts out with laughter at himself. Wiping the tears from his eyes, he continues.
"Shortstack. Thats funny. If you were a Fullstack, yes then the ugly moniker would fit. So did I hear you right your little group is called 'Shortstacks Angels'. Thats cute."He does smile a genuine smile.
Arien Thursday October 26th, 2006 1:31:33 AM
Arien turns when the newcomers and Arrak enter the room. Arien bows to the newcomers and says, "Greetings I am Arien Silverbow." The pale elven mage is dressed in sturdy adventuring gear with numerous pouches for various spell components. He has black hair kept in a tail except for two locks that hang down on either side of his face.
He moves with the inherint grace of the elves as he turns to Arrak and says, "I do not know about what these two or even some of the new members of our party know but we have, as a group, had very serious conflicts with the Sons in the past. I can assure you that I at least am familiar with the ways that they operate. Usually their plots are obscene and evil and need to be thwarted, but of course that is generally what happens with any group of foul minded fools."
Draax Thursday October 26th, 2006 2:17:06 AM
Draax sits straighter when he hears the words the Son of Dreads. He thinks for a moments because it has been so long since he dealt with them.
"The Son of Dreads are known to me although I am not exactly sure what type of cult they are. This group, although with some different members, have had a hand in foiling two of their plans. The first was when they were looking for the body of a mage named Mengor, they were going to use the body to blow up Windhorn and prevent continuation of the Renewal of the Sentinel ceremony. The second was some energy sapping machine that we preventing them from using and a couple of our members sacrificed themselves to destroy the machine.
Other than that, I know the will kill themselves instead of being captured and they believe that if they die their god will resurrect them, so they have no problem with dying for what they believe it. Everything that they are involved in usually has some very bad global consequences."
Unable to think of anything else, Draax continues to sit and wait.
Monthor Thursday October 26th, 2006 7:58:42 AM
Monthor looks at Jova with a smile....
" Kinda jovial aren't we Jova. Me thinks that we're going to get along just fine ye and me. Just fine indeed.... "
:: Monthor's smile turns into a wicked grin ::
{ Yes, me boy, we're going to have fun. }
" As far as these Sons of the Dead.... Me know nothing about them. "
Izen d20+11=13 d2=2 Thursday October 26th, 2006 9:18:28 AM
Not meeting Lord Arrak's eyes, the halfling called Izen gazed casually at the copper coin that he continued to roll across his fingers. "I don't know," he said quietly. "My ... 'while' ... can be worth quite a bit."
He flipped the coin in the air, caught it, and checked the results. (Sleight of Hand 15-not 13- result tails.) With a thoughtful expression, he looked around the room at the others. Then, shifting in his seat and returning his gaze to the coin, he resumed rolling the coin on his fingers ... and waited.
Arrak (DMJK) Thursday October 26th, 2006 5:31:40 PM
"So two of you have met the Sons. Have you wondered whose sons they are? Have you heard of the father? Do you know anything of the Lord of Dread?"
[Juliander would know that the Sons of Dread are a mysterious group often associated with villainy, but he knows nothing specific (and he's never heard anything about their leader).]
Juliander Thursday October 26th, 2006 9:23:45 PM
Juliander shrugs, "Perhaps the more experienced among us do. I've only heard vague stories of treacherous villiany and the like."
Draax Friday October 27th, 2006 12:09:32 AM
Draax shakes his head, "No, I cannot say that I have heard of the Lord of Dread. With the word Dread at the end, I always thought it was just a name, like Sons of Freedom or Sons of Liberty."
Jova Kon Friday October 27th, 2006 2:31:50 AM
If for some reason the hawk on his shoulder went unseen, it becomes apparent now. The bird flutters wildly and launches into the air. It flies to the ceiling, bumps into it and begins screeching. It rebounds and hits a new spot each time the screeching getting louder and louder. Whe it finds it cannot escape, it flutters down to the ground, amist feathers, and excited loss of excrement.
The hawk prances wildly back and forth, muttering. Jova pipes up and begins the chatter with teh bird. It goes on for several moments. The small conversation ends with the bird falling exhaustedly at the feet of Monthor.
"Umm, forgot to introduce you to Z", Jova points out the obvious subject in question. "Z has a longer name, but in his tongu is means 'foul copulation', so I just call him Z. Anyway, he is a real smart bird. The elves taught him the language you heard, and I learned it as well. He is also learning comon, but he can only understand it a little, no speech.
"So anyway", Jova spreads his hands wide, "It seems he has heard about this Lord Dread. I cant quite get the gist of what he knows. Sounds like childrens tales to me. And sometimes he makes up stories. If he comes up with sopmething useful, i will pass it along."
Looking over to Monthor, "He does lke his head to be scratched.
Izen d20+9=11 Friday October 27th, 2006 8:47:06 AM
The halfling with the copper coin shook his head silently. He adjusted two daggers on his waistband. As he watched and listened to the others, he pocketed the coin and fetched a piece of string out, on which he then began tying knots (Craft, trapmaking, 9). The knots were fairly crude--perhaps because his attention was divided.
He looked up occasionally at their host with a patient and expectant expression--for the moment.
Monthor Friday October 27th, 2006 2:12:48 PM
Monthor laughs a friendly laugh at Jova's comments.
" Me like birds and children and dumb animals. Especially dumb animals. Just ask me friend Draax. "
" Me know nothing of the Lord of Dread. But he does sound like someone that needs some bashing. "
Arrak (DMJK) Friday October 27th, 2006 4:52:18 PM
Arrak frowns, "I had hoped you would know more. I confess that I know very little myself, but I will share a bit of what I know. The Lord of Dread, or simply the Dread as he is more commonly known, is a powerful lich. He gathers these sons to him in an attempt to boost his own power. In exchange for their service, he gives them the ability to work magics beyond their ability. As such, he attracts failed hedgewizards, no-talent sorcerers, and others who lack the intelligence or discipline to study magic. These are the types of men who swell the ranks of the Sons of Dread. In exchange, they do his work in the world."
"These Sons of Dread have caused great evil in the world, but I have heard little of them of late. This disturbs me more than I can say. I would know more of their intentions. In many respects, I am bound to this place, and I don't have the... freedom to investigate this matter myself. I would send you to the Dreadlands beyond the Culverwood to discover what you can and report that information back to me."
"If you are successful in this, I will sponsor you in your adventures, but I will require you to pass on other bits of information from time to time."
Draax Friday October 27th, 2006 6:28:30 PM
Draax watches the bird fly around the room, at first he thinks that it is drunk or blind, but after listening to Jova, he realizes that the thing was just looking to fly out of the room.
Draax addresses Monthor's comment, "Yes, I can vouch for Monthor liking dumb animals. He feels more comfortable with animals that has the same intelligence as him or smarter. Just watching the bird, I can see that it has far more intelligence than Monthor, so they should get along fine."
Draax was hoping that Arrak had more information about the activities of the Dread and its sons. He had always worked to stop their plans, not find out what they were up to. If everyone from the old group were here he would be more confident, but going in with 3 people that he does not know gives him some doubt.
Draax has to admit that he was curious about why the SoDs have not be heard from in a while. For him, not going is not an option, but he wishes that Arrak had more intell on what they will be facing.
Arien Friday October 27th, 2006 11:37:01 PM
"I have lost several friends to the Sons, I would gladly do this, and if we get the chance to bloody them a bit and get away safely, so much the better." Arien looks frankly outraged about how the Sons are able to 'cheat' their way to magic that they shouldn't be able to use.
The elven mage begins pacing back and forth in a tight arc the stops and says, "We had an arrangement prior to this with another employer. We had a means of communicating remotely with us should the need arise. Perhaps we can arrange something similar now so that we can relay information as we learn it. Also if we are going to go to a place with numerous 'wizards'," Arien says the last bit with heavy sarcasm, "We'll likely need to take steps to protect our identities so we aren't discovered."
Arien looks over at Draax and says, "Time seems to circle about perhaps its time for our old disguises to become useful once again?"
Izen Sunday October 29th, 2006 9:10:48 AM
"Find out what we can, and report back--that's it?" Izen repeated back. He pursed his lips and pondered. "And in return, you ... 'sponsor' us?"
He looked at his erstwhile employer. Quietly as before, he said evenly, "You'll admit that's a bit vague as an employment contract. What is this project worth to you?"
Monthor Monday October 30th, 2006 12:50:33 PM
:: Monthor pauses from his drinking long enough to listen to Arrak's proposal. Monthor likes to have people think he's dumb but the dwarf is actually fairly intelligent. His lack of wisdom and charisma sometimes gets him in trouble but he's certainly not think headed where it counts. ::
" Bottom line Arrak me bud, me goes where Draax, Tratain and Arien goes. If they choose to do this for ye, me will do me best to keep them alive. Me would know more about the "Dreadlands". What are we likely to encounter there? Sounds like undead territory to me.
Arrak (DMJK) Monday October 30th, 2006 5:53:12 PM
Arrak looks about the group as they speak. He looks as if he's about to speak on a couple of occassions, but he decides to address Monthor first, "The Dreadlands is the just the name of the headquarters of the Sons of Dread. It was a portion of the Culverwood until the Dread settled in it. The forest has slowly been dying since he came to it. I had hoped to find a druid to go with you to see how any being could destroy the magical forest. I'm afraid the Sons are somehow leaching its magic to strengthen the Dread. Perhaps you can discern how this is happening, but a druid would be of some help, I imagine."
He addresses Arien next, "Go in disguise if you wish." He smiles knowingly, "Concealing your identity can be useful for a variety of reasons. However, most disguises won't likely protect you in the Dreadlands. I suspect that they'd kill those who don't belong. So, if you disguise yourself, it should be as someone who belongs. As to a means of contacting me. I can provide something suitable that will allow the group to return to me, or at least to a nearby location. If the matter is important, I prefer to discuss it in person. If it isn't important, you don't need a magic mirror or some such to talk to me."
Finally he turns to Izen, "It's a simple matter to come by coin. You could murder people in their sleep and rob them of everything they own. You could become a pickpocket and snatch the purses of the wealthy as they walk by. You could steal innocent babes and sell them into slavery. You could flaunt your talent and perform in a travelling troupe, or you could pick up a hammer and learn to smith."
He pauses a moment, "There are a myriad of other possibilities. However, you don't seem to have taken to any of these paths to earn your coin. Instead, you've choosen the route of the adventurer. This profession leads to piles of coin, the adoration of fair maidens, and lasting fame in song. It can also lead to an early death."
"So what do I intend when I say that I'll sponsor you? I can provide you with the means to become adventurers of reknown. I once helped turn an amateurish band of adventurers known as the Three into the famed Storm Dragons. Now, members of that band are part of the legendary Platinum Dragons. They break bread with Valdor the Dragonstone and fight by his side. Their wealth is sufficient to make lords weep and kings envy. If you serve me in this and future tasks, I can similarly elevate you. I can provide with with contacts in the world, quests for adventure, and even the shiny magic items that can make you great."
He grows quiet for a moment, "But if that isn't to your liking, you're free to go." Once again, he nods to the door everyone used to enter this room.
Monthor Monday October 30th, 2006 7:19:09 PM
" Shiny magic items is it? Fine Arrak old sock. Ye talked me into it. The rest of you girls coming along too? Come now? Monthor's Angels needs to start making a name for themselves! "
Draax Monday October 30th, 2006 9:37:05 PM
Draax thinks for a moment, "I also like the sound of wealth and magic items, I never really thought about fame. Like my friend Monthor, you can count me in too, on one condition and that is, (smiling) you do not refer to us now or in the future as Monthor's Angels."
Arien Monday October 30th, 2006 11:59:52 PM
Arien smiles a moment at Draax's comment before adding, "Perhaps one day, not so long ago by an elf's reconing, the thought of fame and fortune would have motivated me. Now I feel less entranced with these things and instead simply seek to thwart evil where evil may be found. I have lost too many friends to those of evil intent and too often they are not brought to task for the evil that they work. A chance to do so is all that I ask for. So yes I will go, perhaps I can disguise myself as one of the Sons and the rest or most as servants. We need to know more about the Sons though. Would you perchance know someone or somewhere we could gain this information?"
Juliander Tuesday October 31st, 2006 1:11:46 AM
Becoming quietly serious, "I know nothing of 'adventure' as you speak. However, I will do what is right. Tell me Arrak, what manner of creature that we might disguise ourselves, calls the Dreadlands home? Describe these denizens to me, that I may know them better. Please don't be lax with the details."
Izen d2=1 Tuesday October 31st, 2006 9:13:26 AM
Izen listened carefully to Lord Arrak's words. If he registered the scorn and sarcasm in the Lord's words, he did not acknowledge it--nor did he rise to the bait of the repeated suggestion to leave.
He pocketed the string tied with loops and snares and retrieved the copper coin once more. He flipped it in the air and examined the results. (1, heads) then he addressed the lord.
"You seem to have powerful allies," the halfling acknowledged. "Present company included. These fine folk seem willing enough to trust you. And I ..." He trailed off and frowned, looking at the coin. "Maybe I'm a bit cautious about accepting employment. I want to make sure I know what I'm getting myself into. I ... wouldn't want to disappoint anyone."
He looked at the others, and then Arrak again. "But all right. I'll go with these others. Go find out what we can, and report back."
Still deadpanned, he added, "And maybe we'll find some babies to murder in their sleep on the way."
Monthor add on.... Tuesday October 31st, 2006 9:54:07 AM
Monthor looks at Izen with a " I'm not happy with you " look.
" Me trust friend Izen that ye gest about the babies. Me like humor like the next dwarf... "
:: The burley dwarf taps the head of his axe on his oversized gloved hand ::
" But touch a youngling and your head will soon be seperated from your shoulders. "
:: Monthor picks up his mug and takes a deep drink before looking away from Izen. ::
" No threats implied friend Izen... just a friendly warning. "
:: To punctuate the matter, Monthor squeezes the mug with all of his strenth and shatters it. ::
:: With a whipe of his hand, Monthor clears the mug pieces away from him. ::
" Sorry about the mess Arrak. "
Izen (illegal second) Tuesday October 31st, 2006 10:16:09 AM
The halfling's brows arched in genuine admiration at Monthor's show of strength. "All right--I'll be sure to check in with you before murdering any sleeping babies!"
He smiled--his first in this company--and then, with a swallow and a scratch of the head, returned his attention to his coin.
Monthor - additional, part 2 Tuesday October 31st, 2006 10:28:09 AM
Monthor cracks a smile at Izen.
" You do that Izen and we'll be getting along just fine. Welcome to Monthor's Angels. "
" In fact, me thinks me will start calling ye 'Farrah'.... "
ooc> that last part's a joke. Happy Halloween folks.
Arrak (DMJK) Tuesday October 31st, 2006 6:57:34 PM
Arrak says, "There's no money to be had in killing babies." There's not the slightest bit of humor in his voice.
"Now to the other questions, I can point out the Dreadlands on the map, and most of the Sons of Dread are human. There are villages within the Dread's domain, at least none that I know about. There are some towns in nearby Culverwood. Parnoth the Green rules his Emerald kingdom nearby. I suspect he does not like that the Dread settled so close to him. Perhaps he would give you assistance, but he's not exactly a benevolent saint either. Speaking with him could prove perilous."
Jova Kon Tuesday October 31st, 2006 7:14:27 PM
"I will travel with the 'Angels if they wiull have me. He does not suppress the yawn that comes after.
Draax Tuesday October 31st, 2006 9:08:34 PM
Draax ignores the banter between Izen and Monthor, he looks at Jova Kon with an exasperate impression on his face, "You can travel with the angels if you want, but I have no idea who they are because for the last time, we are not, have never been, and will never be Monthor's Angels." He goes from looking like he is about to cry to a good open bellow of laughter. Looking at Monthor he says, "Will everyone stop encouraging him."
After getting the good laugh out of his system, Draax turns to Arrak and says, "The way the green treats his so-called subjects, I would rather have nothing to do with him if I could help it. Like Arien suggested, I would prefer going in some type of disguise because we can move around more freely and not bring them back to our door step when the task is completed."
Izen Tuesday October 31st, 2006 9:45:16 PM
Izen chuckled quietly to himself. "Maybe we should call ourselves the Dreadnoughts," he said quietly, not having actually intended to be heard by the others.
But Izen nodded at Draax's words. "Agreed that we should steer clear of Parnoth. Treating with dragons can be ... treacherous." He looked thoughtfully at Arrak.
"As to magic, perhaps something that could mask our coming and going would be helpful. Would you have something like that? Anything to assist us in accomplishing this mission would be ... helpful."
Juliander Wednesday November 1st, 2006 1:29:30 AM
"I'm fairly good at blending in, though I don't know that my abilities extend to others very well, in that regard. Either way, I'm comfortable with the idea that we could infiltrate such a place relatively undetected."
CDM Jerry Wednesday November 1st, 2006 10:56:53 AM
I need for the ADM of this game to please add the report for last week's posting. Thanks.
Please email me when this is done.
Monthor Wednesday November 1st, 2006 5:29:59 PM
ooc> Where the heck's Tratain anyway?
:: Monthor looks at Draax::
" Oh come on 'Sabrina', you know you love being called one of me Angels. "
:: To the others ::
" Which ever way we decide to go, me suggest we go pick up some gear first. Me not getting caught in one of those damn cubes again like last time without a way out. Also, me no good a this stealth stuff. Me make a lot of noise and me be big. "
" What dragon? Who said anything about a dragon? Is there a dragon for me to kill? "
Draax Wednesday November 1st, 2006 7:31:29 PM
Looking at Monthor, Draax smiles and says, "OK Bosley, lets try to stay focused on the task at hand, you can go play with your dragons later."
Jova Wednesday November 1st, 2006 8:26:20 PM
Surprise knit all over his facxe, he looks to Draax for help
"Did the little hairy fellow, monthor right? Did he say he was big and noisy? I find that well, umm, not believable. I can make him ten times his size if we ever really need noisy. Hmm, i do wonder though if we could handle him that large. Imagine how scary and ugly...." He shudders at the thought.
"Disguises? Not too many people know me, I will be fine the way I am. And isnt that the purpose to be seen, to gather information?"
Tratain Wednesday November 1st, 2006 8:52:13 PM
Tratain looks up in thought, Gather information about the Lord of Dread? Tratain says "Sounds like a worthy cause, though we're not calling ourselves Monthors Angels."
OOC: sorry I'll post the ADM report when I can, Work has been very hectic lately, I've got almost no free time bleh.
Izen d20+5=14 Thursday November 2nd, 2006 9:43:23 PM
Seeing that their host was immersed deeply in thought, Izen examined some of the pastries that the gnomes had brought with the refreshments. (Profession Chef, 14) He bit off a corner of one and chewed appraisingly.
"Light and flaky," he murmured appreciatively between chews. "Not too oily."
He looked at the others, and, after a moment's hesitation, offered the plate. "You should try these."
He looked to their host. "Good quality. Who is your chef? I would like to give him my compliments."
Juliander Friday November 3rd, 2006 1:35:48 AM
"Seen yes... though it is always best to blend in with the locals whenever possible. It keeps them at ease, and off their guard. We'll be more likely to get the information that we require that way. That has been my experience at any rate." Juliander sits back in his chair, the tips of his fingers lightly touching in front of his face as he ruminates.
Arrak (DMJK) Friday November 3rd, 2006 9:18:16 AM
Arrak listens to the chatter, but raises his eyebrows when Monthor mentions slaying dragons, "Dragons are not so easy to slay my small friend, and except for Maab, Parnoth is the oldest and most powerful of us all."
He pauses a moment to let that sink in and says, "I think Izen is going to pop a vein in his temple if I don't give him something shiny very soon. So, if you'd be so good as to follow me."
He turns and heads to the door opposite from the ones the gnomes used to leave the chamber.
Izen Friday November 3rd, 2006 1:39:15 PM
Izen arched an eyebrow at their host's--and erstwhile employer's--disparaging remark, but said nothing. Placing the pastry he was eating down on an unused tray, he rose to follow Arrak to the door.
Draax Friday November 3rd, 2006 1:54:38 PM
Because of his previous experiences of using disguises, Draax agrees with Juliander statement about information gathering. He gets ready to add to the conversation but he stops to listen to Arrak's comments. Seeing Izen following Arrak, Draax gets up and walks behind Izen.
Jova Friday November 3rd, 2006 7:58:46 PM
Odd lot of characters he thinks to himself. He stands, brushes off his back side, and follows Draax. Motioning to Z to follow, the bird waddles behind him.
Arien Saturday November 4th, 2006 12:40:59 AM
Arien also follows Arrak, walking beside the spellcaster Jova. Arien says as they walk, "If we are to work together I suggest we coordinate our spells, as best we can. I specialize in the shaping and using of magical energies and do not use spells that involve necromancy or the beguilement or charming of others. What sort of spells do you use, Sorceror?"
Jova Saturday November 4th, 2006 1:54:26 AM
The voice beside him startles him at first. As he listens he is pleased. Pleased that he will be able to act with someone, tired of working aone.
"Ah yes. Well, it seems the ability that resides in me, would mostly be to transform things. Changing one thing to do another. Charming, a little knowledge there, of course it fits in with the changing of things. For the most part people don't pay attention. So I like to lead them one way, while doing something else. Oh, and I do have some practice with summoning. Z, the friendly hawk there, has travelled sith me for a long time, and is a great help. He understands the use of magic, and he is a fantastic showman."
Monthor Saturday November 4th, 2006 9:26:37 AM
The dwarf purks up at the mention of "something shiny".
" Let' go then me Angels. "
Juliander Monday November 6th, 2006 12:18:36 AM
Juliander takes up the rear of the group, thoughtfully observing the rest as he strides easily behind them.
Izen Monday November 6th, 2006 10:10:04 AM
As they walked, Izen nodded at Monthor's ribbon. He scratched at the three-day growth of stubble on his chin and eyed Monthor carefully.
"Axe Clan, isn't that?" he asked. "Dirt City House of Knives. I've done some work with them. Tough set of characters."
Tratain Tuesday November 7th, 2006 12:07:13 PM
Tratain walks along with the others, lost in his thoughts.
Arrak (DMJK) Tuesday November 7th, 2006 5:06:08 PM
Arrak leads the way down a hallway that seems to be descending some distance below the earth. As the group goes down, Arrak says casually, "You all do just realize that I said I'm a dragon, right?"
[sorry for the missed posts. work and such. I'll endeavor to do better.]
Juliander Tuesday November 7th, 2006 5:51:45 PM
Juliander remarks wryly, "Sure... isn't everybody these days? Its the latest fashion." The human snorts, "Though I don't doubt your claims, the frequency with which dragons seem to interject themselves into society, not to mention the political world, seems to be on the rise again. I don't say that as if it were a bad thing... merely an observation."
Monthor Tuesday November 7th, 2006 7:37:55 PM
Previously...
:: To Izan. ::
" The Axe Head clan is tough.. and me Dah be the toughest of them all. He be Warleader. Though, truth be told, me Mah can still kick his arse when the need be there. "
--------------- The dwarf seems stunned. He hadn't caught on that Arrak ment that he was a dragon (ooc> And neither did I for that matter). Monthor's face turns red from the flow of adrenaline coursing through his body. Monthor's been seeking an oppertunity to battle a dragon. A dragon kill would bring glory to his clan and maybe, just maybe, make his father proud of him. Monthor however, not being as dumb as people think he is, remembers the dragon lore taught to him...
" And what color dragon might ye be Arrak? "
Izen Tuesday November 7th, 2006 10:03:52 PM ooc: oh, what's really going to blow your mind is when you go back and read the DM post from Thursday July 13th, 2006 at 11:05:18 AM, and then reread Arrak's posts since then.
Izen nodded, as if this made all of the sense in the world. His reaction is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to read (Bluff, Skill Mastery, 25).
"I imagine that you haven't gone through all of this trouble just to eat us," the halfling observed. "Of course, if you have, then might I recommend that you wait for my older brother to come along. He is bigger and fatter than me, and would make a much better meal."
Under his breath, he added, "... or you could just eat the dwarf ...."
Monthor Tuesday November 7th, 2006 10:28:31 PM
Monthor laughs loudly at Izen's comment and pats the little dude on the back.
" Good one Izen... me sur would have more meat on me bones then you. "
Draax Tuesday November 7th, 2006 11:32:04 PM
At first Draax takes the Arrak's comments to mean he is something similar to the Platinum Dragons, but hearing the others comments Draax finally gets Arrak's true meaning. "Well that explains a lot. As long as your dragon name is not Parnoth, I do not have a problem; if it is Parnoth, I will have a hard time working for you on a continuous basis."
Jova Wednesday November 8th, 2006 3:49:28 AM
Dragon, ya right he thinks to himself. Looking over his shoulder he motions for Z to earch on his shoulder. In hushed tones, in a foreign language they discuss the validity of such a claim. Jova gives Z the order to keep his ees and ears open, if it were so, then maybe this man would demonstrate his shapechanging ability. Alas, they both agree that would be to good to be true.
Tratain Wednesday November 8th, 2006 4:41:06 PM
Tratain looks up startled a little, he says "Dragon, as in real Dragon? I had assumed that you ment you were affiliated with one of the adventuring party's that take those titles, your prowes in battle was great and you mentioned the Platnum Dragons, I didn't realize you ment it literally."
Tratain continues to follow Lord Arrak down the hallway listening to the others and thier questions. The gnomes seemed to hold him in high regard, so they should be safe the Protector thinks to himself.
Patrark (DMJK) Wednesday November 8th, 2006 6:38:42 PM
"The Platinum Dragons are associated with a number of real dragons. The dragon consortiuum consists of a number of real dragons. I am not a member of the consortium, but I am most assuredly a real dragon. My name is actually Patrark, but I find it inconvenient to use this name when posing as a human. I confess that I share Juliander's reservations about dragons interacting in the world of men. I do not involve myself in politics. This plateau is my home, and it has been for centuries. I don't mean to move because people encroach upon my territory. I also don't see the need to drive humans away. There's plenty of room for everyone. I do my part to provide order to this plateau, but I have no other ambitions. However, I do value information, especially about those who may come to threaten me. The Dread is such a threat."
"As to the question of what color I am, I think you would find that I am blue. However, I believe that you actually meant to ask what kind of dragon I am. We have our own name for it of course, but humans generally refer to my race as the saphire dragons."
[Kup figured out he was a dragon. :) ]
Jova Wednesday November 8th, 2006 11:24:32 PM
Spying Monthor in the procession, Jova asks.
"Monthor, can you tell us if this person speaks the truth. I figure a mighty warrior such as yourself would know a play dragon from a real one. What ya think?"
Draax Wednesday November 8th, 2006 11:47:54 PM
Draax continues to follow Arrak with the others; he does not know how he feels about the revelation of Arrak actually being a dragon. He shrugs his shoulders as he remembers that working for Marcus was no picnic.
Arien Thursday November 9th, 2006 2:07:14 AM
Arien remains reserved about the revealed fact that Arrak was, in fact, a dragon. He didn't mind working with dragons but he doubted that if they were to perish it would mean much to the dragon.
Izen d20+5=23 Thursday November 9th, 2006 8:49:31 AM
"All right ... Patrark," Izen said measuredly. "I'm glad that you decided to be straight with us. Deception has its place--but not when offering a job."
He eyed the man-dragon carefully. (Sense Motive 23) "You have any other surprises for us? Anything else you not sharing?"
Monthor Thursday November 9th, 2006 9:29:32 AM
Monthor looks at Jova and responds::
" Saphire dragons are unknown to me but me do know that blue dragons are no friend to dwarves. Me daddy always said that he best predictor of futur behavior is past behavior. Patty's done nothing so far to threaten us and has actually been welcoming and a generous host. If Feng were here he could tell us if our new friend is evil or not. Me... cannot but me instincts tell me to trust him. "
Monthor- sense motive role d20+4=18 Thursday November 9th, 2006 9:30:51 AM
Sense Patty's motive role = 18
Juliander d20+15=35 Thursday November 9th, 2006 7:05:55 PM
Taking Patrark's words at face value would be foolish, though it would be even more foolish to call any dragon a liar to their face. Speaking with complete candor, "Assuming what you say is correct, I would be more then happy to assist you against this threat. Consider me your man good dragon." (OOC: Sense Motive DC 35)
Patrark (DMJK) Thursday November 9th, 2006 8:47:59 PM
Patrark stops before a door and turns. He eyes the group for a moment and then laughs, "Ha! You don't believe it's true. Well, that's why I brought you down here isn't it."
He swings open the door. It takes a moment for your eyes to adjust to the darkness beyond, but you feel the immensity of the room. You feel the air and the darkness and know that the room is vast. Then Patrark speaks a word in an unknown tongue, "zdaknaasdl," and the chamber slowly fills with light.
It's a large underground cavern but the thing that catches your eyes are the piles of precious treasure. Stacks and stacks of gold coins. Mountains of jewels. So much silver that it literally washes over the floor in a flood. Tapestries, works of art, and enough magic items to make a Catacombs salesman look on in wonder.
Patrark lets the group take in the room for a moment, and then he walks into the space of the room. He shifts as he moves and grows into the space. An immense dragon with scales of a deep, yet sparkling, blue fills the chamber, and the radiance and dragon fear that eminates from him leaves no doubt to anyone about whether or not he is really a dragon.
After another moment the dragon speaks with a fearsome booming voice, "I've told you the truth in all things save my name, and I think it should be obvious why I don't go parading my true identity around. I suppose before we go any further, I should ask if you mean to try to kill me and steal my treasures, but I should warn you that I would have never brought you down here if I wasn't certain that you couldn't."
Monthor Thursday November 9th, 2006 8:55:34 PM
Monthor crosses his massive arms across his chest.
" Well me Angels that be a dragon hoard all right. And that be a dragon."
" We're good Patty. No one's gonna try to harm ye. "
Draax Friday November 10th, 2006 12:20:30 AM
Draax chuckles at Patrark's remarks, "Even if we could kill you; you have not given us a reason to. Killing someone, even a dragon just for its treasure is not something that I will be a part of. Killing a dragon for other reasons and taking its treasure afterward is something that I would do. Looking at this treasure does taking away any qualms I had about whether you could pay us an amount that is equal to the risk we will take.
It does seem that the only dragons that I have met that I did not have a conflict with were the ones that I met in their human guise first."
Jova and Z Friday November 10th, 2006 1:45:37 AM
Z begins chattering at the first movement of change. Jova listens intently while he watches the transformation. Speaking in an odd tune, Jova speaks back to the bird. As if noone else exists in the room, the two walk up to the newly transformed figure. The conversation, as all can tell that is, continues with out pretense. Both of them, reach out to touch the dragon. Satisfied with what they see, they retreat to where the treasure lies. It is the magic items that atract the 2.
Placing his left arm across his chest, he cups it with his right hand. He scratches his heads, under the wide brimmed leather hat. Z goes silent and looks apraisingly over the goods.
Speaking to noone, and everyone, he says, "So, information on the sons of Dread? Dread himself as well i imagine. Hmmm, sounds to me to be a worthy task. "For he who recives much, much is required'. Now that we have witnessed this, we are stuck. Me and Z are in. Hopefully the other ankles will join as well."
Izen d20+7=20 Friday November 10th, 2006 11:14:43 AM Just for RP purposes, WILL save v. Dragon's fearful presence, 20 +1 or +2 racial? In any event, 21 or 22--decent, but against a dragon of these apparent HD???
Izen's eyes gazed around the room at the treasure hoard with calm appraisal, despite what should have been shock and awe (Bluff, skill mastery, 25). But all that panache quickly dissolved in the face of the awesome dragon's presence.
He took an involuntary step backward, and then another. Steadying himself against one of his companions, he quickly drew his hand back, as if burned. His eyes were wide and wild with shock and disbelief.
"I--I don't--I mean, you said--you said you were--but I never--I didn't--" the halfling stammered.
Quicker than an eye could blink, Izen's rapier was in one hand, and his javelin was in the other. (Quick Draw) He stepped forward and looked at the dragon, but then, almost as quickly, he knelt and laid the weapons at the dragon's feet. He unlimbered his backpack, as well, and laid that alongside the wepons.
"Your servant humbly offers his inadequate services in fealty to his lordship. His lordship is no doubt aware of his servant's abilities, and the manner in which he performs them. Although his lordship's servant is aware that his services are meager and inadequate, still, his lordship's servant humbly requests that his lordship accept his services and allow him to serve his lordship in the manner that his lordship sees fit."
He added in a low voice. "From the families and of the families, for the families that they might live."
It sounded like an oath.
Monthor Friday November 10th, 2006 12:02:05 PM
Monthor shakes his head in a "tisk, tisk, tisk" motion.
"Izen, duuuuude. Show some pride and get off your knees little brother. It's just Patty after all. "
Tratain Friday November 10th, 2006 4:41:37 PM
Tratain says "I agree with Draax, we just don't go around attacking anyone, it seems you have lived here on the Plataue peacefully for a long time, and will still be here long after we are gone. It is good that you wish to keep order here, so that people may live in peace. I for one have no intention of fighting you."
Arien Friday November 10th, 2006 5:53:25 PM
Arien rises an eyebrow, impressed at the display and the other's response to it and a little bemused as being refered to as one Monthor's Angels. Then Arien looks at the dragon and says, "Patrark I wish to ask you something, from my understanding dragons frequently view the other races as lesser than dragons and expendable. I have said that I will make this journey and will not break that but I would like to know what your view of us really is, would we be expendable fodder to you?"
Juliander Sunday November 12th, 2006 11:13:42 PM
Juliander steps forward, "Fascinating indeed that you would be so trusting as to lead a band of adventurers such as this down into your lair in order to provide them with proof of your existence. I for one, required no such proof, nor do I misplace aggression wantonly. I have the same concern as friend Arien here however, and would have you speak to the point. Keep in mind that I do recognize the need to deal with the Dread regardless, though I imagine our association might last a bit longer then this one investigatory foray. So it is pertinent nonetheless."
Jerry Tuesday November 14th, 2006 12:45:26 PM
I need the weekly report here please from yesterday for last week. Email me when done.
Patrark - DMJK Tuesday November 14th, 2006 6:55:45 PM
"I do love the varied reactions I get when I do that, but I don't transform before many people. It's no suprise that you've found dragons who assume human form to be easier to get along with than others. Posturing yourself as a human implies some sort of respect for the race. Personally, I prefer gnomes... I think it's their inquisitive nature, but humans, elves, dwarves, and so forth have their value as well. I could go on at length about my views of mankind, but suffice it to say I do not think you are fodder."
"In any case, it pleases me that you're willing to accept my proposal. I have but one magical item to give you at this time. No matter where you are in this world, it will recall all of you to a place on this plateau not too distant from my home. You may return instantly when you are either finished with your task or when you are in danger or simply need to communicate with me quickly. I prefer to always communicate in person. I set no faith in magical communication devices. They are too easily tampered with and subject to magical eavesdropping. On your return, I will outfit you with other items as your needs require. Once I give a gift it will be yours regardless of present or future service."
Gem dragons don't exude as much dragon fear as other types. They're more awe inspiring than fearsome.
[ack my last post didn't post.]
Izen d20+13=17 d2=2 Tuesday November 14th, 2006 9:26:00 PM
Izen paused, his gaze still lowered. His new master had not accepted his proffered services ... but neither had he denied them, either.
Gathering his things and standing, Izen sheathed his weapons and shouldered his pack. The awe-struck expression had vanished. A studied slouch returned.
The halfling fished the copper coin from his pocket and spun it in the air. (Sleight of Hand 17, results tails)
"So, when do we start?"
Draax Tuesday November 14th, 2006 10:18:27 PM
Unable to think of any new to add to the conversation, Draax waits for the answer to Izen's question.
Tratain Wednesday November 15th, 2006 12:09:40 AM
Tratain waits for Patrark to finish explaining where the party is to go and to see what his response is to Izens question.
Jova Wednesday November 15th, 2006 12:27:51 AM
Jova still stands off to the side. He listens intently to the dragons simple reasoning. Tossing the idea over and over in his head, he finally shrugs his shoulders.
Juliander Wednesday November 15th, 2006 2:28:19 AM
"I'm honored to be of service... noble Patrark."
Monthor Wednesday November 15th, 2006 8:01:52 AM
" Give the magic thingy to Arien Patty. May as well have the magic user carry the magic item. Me and Arien need to teleport to the Plateau before we go for supplies. We'll need to do the quick trip and the night to rest and plan before we go. We'll appreciate any intelligence you have on the Dread and their lands as well. "
Patrark (DMJK) Wednesday November 15th, 2006 5:47:50 PM
"You may begin immediately. I can teleport to a location near the Culverwood to speed your journey. However, if you wish to go in disguise, you may prefer to travel overland. The overland trip offers the side benefit that it may bring you to your tree. My gnomes can provide you with maps of the region in case you need them."
He reaches a large claw into a nearby stack of treasure and pulls out a red cylinder about 1 inch in diameter and 8 inches long. The thing seems to small for the dragon to grip properly, but he still manages to hand it rather nimbly to Arien. He gives the mage instructions on its use, "This is the teleportation device. To ready it you need to say, 'Zfimfim.' Then pass it to each person in your group and have them say, 'Brinkwater.' The rod will then be ready to teleport everyone who grasped the rod to Brinkwater Lake when someone grasps the rod and says, 'Fizmzim.' You may ready the rod at any time, and it will be ready to function until someone says either the first or final command word while holding it. The device has a rather large range and will teleport anyone within several hundred yards who has touched it. Also, be prepared to get wet when you use the item. I've ensured that you won't teleport into a passing wagon or a wandering deer, but the landing can be a bit tricky."
One of the gnomes enters into the chamber carrying a few rolled up scrolls. Patrark explains, "These are the maps that I mentioned."
"Also, Master Izen, let us delay discussion of your oath until we know one another better. You might find that I am more demanding of vassals than you might currently expect."
Izen d20+13=21 d2=1 Wednesday November 15th, 2006 10:26:27 PM
The halfling raised his eyebrows at Patrark's comments. He nodded curtly and adjusted his equipment, then looked expectantly at the others.
He flipped his coin. (Sleight of Hand 21, result heads)
Juliander Wednesday November 15th, 2006 11:14:10 PM
Juliander nods, "The overland trip is probably the wisest course of action. How far is the trip from here? Give or take?"
Draax Thursday November 16th, 2006 4:53:30 AM
Draax sits calmly, "I agree, I prefer the overland route too. I will also need to make a shopping trip before we depart."
Monthor Thursday November 16th, 2006 7:31:27 AM
ooc> I don't have anything to add. DM, can we make a Catacombs run before we go? Monthor already did the trip as you know and completed his trade. Also, Monthor earned a seal in the Black Tap. Does he have it now?
Jova Thursday November 16th, 2006 12:39:28 PM
Jova is standing in thought. Out of the blue, and to noone in particular he asks, "Who is in charge of the Ankles anyway. Sure they carry Monthors illustrious name, but he doesnt seem to be the leader. Just wondering, in case we have a future dec ision we dont al agree on. Overland is ok with us."
Arien Thursday November 16th, 2006 12:58:06 PM
Arien concentrates on Patrark's instructions and when Arien is confident that he has memorized the instructions he nods at the dragon and begins to stow the rod in his pack.
Monthor Thursday November 16th, 2006 1:28:57 PM
Monthor laughs at Jova's comment.
" Me don't think that there is a leader in the party at this time me friend. And Monthor's Angels is no dictatorship anyway. Usually we settle disagreements by arm wrestling. Yes, that's it, arm wrestling... We could always change that to a gnome tossing contest? "
" All kidding aside, we should settle on a group representative. Me not have the charaaaasma to be the talker. Anyone want the job? "
Tratain Thursday November 16th, 2006 4:33:13 PM
Tratain Sigh and says "We're not the Angles, we do need to choose a name for our merry band now, we used to just call ourselves the Hamleteer's, but most of us aren't from Windhorn hamlet anymore."
He continues "Most of our decisions are made by group concensus, we've never really had a leader to speak of, everyone has a voice here."
Kup ooc Thursday November 16th, 2006 4:41:48 PM Ooc: Izen had proposed the "Dreadnoughts" as a name earlier, although he's not the type to repeat himself on such a thing. Don't have much else on which to base a name suggestion as yet!
Dave T Thursday November 16th, 2006 5:44:12 PM Umm dont know if anyone noticed, but jova refers to the group as the 'ankles', not angels.
Patrark - dmjk Thursday November 16th, 2006 6:12:00 PM
"Call yourselves what you like. It makes no difference to me. I suspect the overland route will take you a week or so."
[see map: http://www.woldiangames.com/maps/yrth/peninsula/big_peninsula.htm. dreadlands are between Culverwood and izen]
Juliander Friday November 17th, 2006 12:53:15 AM
"Like Monthor said, I like the idea that we settle things by either consensus or majority vote... or some such method that doesn't put the decision making power in one person's hands. However, that said, I have plenty of skill at negotiations, both formal and casual. I'd be happy to be the face-man for the group." (OOC: To note... Juliander is a bard with a 24 Charisma and max ranks in Bluff, Diplomacy, and Sense Motive.)
Izen Friday November 17th, 2006 7:54:52 AM
"Well, what are we waiting for?" Izen growled. He nodded at the dragon. "My lord."
"Let's go."
Monthor Friday November 17th, 2006 8:14:52 AM
ooc> What about the Catacomb's trip?
DMJK Friday November 17th, 2006 5:54:20 PM
Patrark adds, "You should pick up some horses." No sooner has he said this than one of the gnomes brings in a document and hands it to Arien, "Take that slip to the stables in Wellogy, and they'll provide you with horses. Good luck on your journey."
Assuming there are no further questions for Patrark, the helping gnome leads the group out of the caves and back to the Dragonridge Hills. Night isn't too far away. The gnome points west and says, "Town is that way."
[stop in a town after leaving the dragon and you can pick up any catacombs purchases]
Arien Friday November 17th, 2006 6:47:04 PM
Arien looks over the document a moment before also stowing that along with the rod. Arien thanks the gnome and looks at the others, "Well we should be going, it wouldn't be wise to be caught out here at night."
Draax Friday November 17th, 2006 9:30:11 PM
Draax listens to everyone and adds a few comments before leaving. "Like Tain stated 'The Hamleteers' is no longer an option, for now I suggest we go with Izen's proposal of 'The Dreadnoughts' unless or until someone thinks of something better. It fits for the moment with our involvement with the Lord and Sons of Dread.
As far as a team spokesman goes, we can use Juliander's skills until we get to know each other well enough to know who should handle each situation. I have confidence in Arien on magical and Tain on religion matters. Some of you may have more experience in those areas than them, but as we get to know each other we will find out which areas we each have expertise in."
Draax gets up and departs with the others.
(OOC: I suggest we go with Dreadnoughts for now for game play purposes and make any other suggestions via email.)
Izen Saturday November 18th, 2006 11:24:22 PM
Izen looked taken aback for a moment at Draax's having taken his suggestion seriously, then shrugged. He followed the others to the door and toward the road to Wellogy.
Juliander Monday November 20th, 2006 1:47:51 AM
Realizing at times, that the most prudent thing to do is simply remain silent and follow along, Juliander does just that, accompanying the group to retrieve the horses.
DMJK Monday November 20th, 2006 6:19:09 PM
It's full dark by the time the group reaches Wellogy. There appear to be three inns in town. Two seem to be well lit, friendly establishments. One has a sign that features a blue fish, and the other has a sign featuring a red sword and something that looks like a pumpkin. The third is either seedy or cheap, if not both. It's hard to tell from the outside. It's sign features a large black pot.
Of course, continuing down the road is another option.
DMJK Monday November 20th, 2006 6:20:22 PM
[I won't be about Thursday or Friday this week due to Thanksgiving travelling. Any objection to a couple of days off for the holiday?]
Jova Monday November 20th, 2006 6:33:29 PM
Jova upon reaching the town goes directly to the stable. He wanted to inspect the animals they were to buy for the trip. It was an odd thing for him, but he did not seek out himan company. Much more seemed to be on his mind.
Izen d2=2 Monday November 20th, 2006 10:23:14 PM
Izen stayed with the others and waited to see what their decision was regarding accommodations. His copper coin spun in the air (Sleight of Hand, skill mastery, 23, result tails).
ooc: no problem with me to take a break! Starting Wednesday I will be traveling until next Tuesday anyway!
Arien Monday November 20th, 2006 11:17:52 PM
Arien looks at Jova as he heads off with a mildly curious look and then with a shrug gestures to the inn featuring the blue fish and heads that way.
Draax Tuesday November 21st, 2006 2:18:44 AM
Draax decides to follow Arien into the inn and see about a horse after they are settled in.
OOC: no problem here, one less thing to worry about over the holiday.
Monthor Tuesday November 21st, 2006 8:31:27 AM
Monthor rubs his hands and licks his lips in anticipation of beer. (yummm...beer!!!!)
" NEW GUYS BUY THE DRINKS!!! "
Jogging more so then walking, Monthor follows Arien and Draax to the Inn.
ooc> This holiday must be an American thing? Just kidding guys. Happy turkey weekend from the " brother from up over".
Tratain Tuesday November 21st, 2006 10:02:13 AM
Tratain follows the others to the inn.
DMJK Tuesday November 21st, 2006 4:47:08 PM
Everyone but Jova follows Arien into the Blue Fish. It's a typical inn and tavern with food and entertainment and rooms up above. The entertainment features a singer who plays his harp. He sings passably well, but his playing is amateurish. Nevertheless, people seem to be enjoying it. About 30 people are eating inside and watching the show. The tavern only has a few small tables, which are already taken. What is left are some long tables where small groups and individuals sit with whomever happens along.
The tavernkeeper comes out to greet Arien, "Dinner's 50 silver. You can have ham or roast goose." He eyes Monthor, "Drinks aren't included in the dinner price. And we have rooms too if you need them. Common sleeping room is 10 silver a head. Private room is 1 gold. Each private room has a bed that will sleep two. Course, there's space on the floor. Only have two privates left. Plenty of bunks in the common room."
Meanwhile Jova checks on the stable. He discovers that there's a stable boy who can put up horses for the night, but the stable master has already gone home and won't be back til the morning. The boy doesn't want any part of giving away horses for a slip of paper that he can't read.
Izen d20+5=24 d20+4=22 Tuesday November 21st, 2006 8:45:23 PM
Izen waited for the others to express a preference as to the accommodations, but silently tipped his eyes upward to the others to indicate his preference for the private rooms, should they choose to stay at this inn (Bluff to send secret message, Skill Mastery, 25).
He sniffed the air appraisingly (Profession, Chef, 24! Appraise if necessary, 22!). He pursed his lips. "The food seems passable. I'd skip the ham, and try the roast goose instead. But it smells as if the chef is failing to rotate the spit evenly, and so I'd be sure to ask for the pieces nearer the fire." His eyes failed to acknowledge any surprise registered by his companions or the innkeeper.
He smiled at Monthor. "Sounds like you'll be paying for your own beverages--although I'll gladly pay for the first pint."
Draax Wednesday November 22nd, 2006 12:13:11 AM
Draax laughs at Monthor's comments about the drinks. At the inn, he listens to the tavernkeeper and if he interpreted Izen's signal correctly, Draax would also like the private rooms. Although Draax has no idea what Izen was talking about with the food, but he shows no reaction to the comment. Draax does not mind sleeping on the floor, so he has no objections to sharing a room. He speaks up to ensure that no newcomers to the inn get the rooms. "Thanks you good sir, we will take both of the private rooms for two nights maybe more. For dinner I will take the ham and an Ale."
Draax looks around and heads towards any large table that has enough open spaces to accommodate all of them. If no table has enough open spots, Draax will look for a group of open seats in the same area.
Juliander Wednesday November 22nd, 2006 2:05:38 AM
Putting a single platinum coin on the table, "I'll take the goose and your best ale." Holding his finger on the coin for a moment, Juliander's eye glints merrily, "Plus a round or two for the room." Looking about the inn, Juliander appraises their minstrel, as well as looks for a suitable evening companion, should one be present for the having. He then slaps the coin into the innkeeper's hand, and gives it a warm shake.
Monthor Thursday November 23rd, 2006 8:03:16 AM
ooc> Quicky on the fly.... been sick, sorry.
Monthor drinks and drinks some more. He tries to get everyone to sing old war songs and challenges the strongest looking patron to an arm wrestling contest. If things get rowdy he'll be more then willing to "take things outside". He still refers to the group as his "Angels" and ignores any attempts to correct him (especially from Draax). Monthor's fine with sleeping in a common room but with his snoring, the rest of the patrons may be better off chipping in and getting him a private room. Any unwanted "fanny pinching" on the serving wenches by patrons will be quickly delt with by a dwarven atomic wedgy and an expectation that the offender will apolagies to the offended.
Tratain Monday November 27th, 2006 10:30:15 AM
Tratain sits with the others and eats a little, he talks with whomever is sociable in the inn trying to get a sense for the town.
Jova Tuesday November 28th, 2006 3:29:46 AM
Jova leaves the stable and enters the establishment where the others had gone.
Jerry Tuesday November 28th, 2006 11:16:06 AM
I'm working hard on getting this going here. Be prepared. This game will probably be posting again tonight.
JK, either Matty/Marcin or I will begin posting hopefully today or tonight.
This is now my top priority.
Arien Tuesday November 28th, 2006 11:36:14 AM
Arien waves over Jova when he sees the spellcaster enter the Inn and having made his decision for the food relays the choices to Jova as well.
Izen Wednesday November 29th, 2006 11:25:54 AM
Izen scratched the stubble on his cheeks and sat with the others. He certainly was no stranger to strong drink, which he demonstrated by drinking heartily with Monthor. From the top of his mug, he watched the room but made no move to involve himself in trouble.
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