Belkior Wednesday May 30th, 2007 10:23:39 PM
The halfling cleric falls to his knees when the excruciating pain starts. Even with his years of training, Belkior cannot withstand the pain any better than his companions. When it ends, Belkior quickly casts Detect Magic to determine if he and his companions had been targetted by a spell. Regardless of how that turns out, he will quickly check his companions and himself to determine if they have been physically injured.
DM George Wednesday May 30th, 2007 10:33:14 PM
OOC OK guys, this is it. This is the start of the new module and I want to give a couple lines of advice. This module is meant to take you to the limit and beyond. If you don't work together efficiently and smart, characters are going to die. If during combat, you can not post, get someone else to post for you. I will treat the character who doesn't post harshly. OK enough heavy handedness, I will say, theire is some great rewards for the surviviors, so work together and have fun. George
The Crimson Shields pick themselves up, wipe their mouths and stagger off to different places to clean up and change clothing. They all meet back at Samsons and start discussing what happened to them when everything changes. Everything goes grey and everyone feels a lurch or shifting.
The Crimson Shields find themselves sitting on elaborate thrones. Jewels encrust the armrests and none of the chairs is particularly comfortable. They are sitting in a half moon and upon closer reflection, every one of them looks different. It is Belkior who figures it out first. Everyone looks older. Grey speckles Lang's fur, and crow's feet surround many eyes. Only the elven members look like themselves but even they have changed.
The clothes are different. Everyone is wearing finery. Rings dot the fingers, heavy gold chains are around the necks. Thin circlets of beaten gold rest on your brows.
When the group tries to speak, they find themselves frozen. They can hear themselves breathing and can flick their eyes around but they can not summon the will to move any other muscles. Most have experienced this before. All have except Wynn when he battled the fire and the odds in the Longhouse to save Lily and Katrin from burning alive. Another similar thing is happening again. The strange good looking old man is again watching them.
Syr Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:10:30 AM
Frozen again, he immediately tests the limits of the spell trying to move a foot. Unable to do so, the elf helplessly stares at the others while taking things in. Looking at Angus his eyes crinkle in amusement and he makes a mental note to tell the sorceror to lay off the ale a bit. His gaze wanders around to the others as he ponders how he might appear to them.
'Interesting' he thinks to himself, as his eyes move to the half drow and bard next to each other. He wonders if they have ever discussed their different races and how it might affect their relationship as the two age.
Wynn d20+8=22 Thursday May 31st, 2007 7:41:19 AM
Unable to move, and unsure of his surroundings the bard fights to calm his emotions. "Just a dream.." he wonders. Wynn tries to wake himself and see through the vision before him [Will Save=22, 24 if this is an enchantment effect].
If the vision persists, the half-elf begins to sing a ballad about a bard who travels into the shadow land to retreive his lover from Gargul. The act of singing gives him courage and he hopes it does the same for his friends. [Bardic Music, Inspire Courage +1 to saves vs fear for all those that can hear him]
Bin Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:31:31 PM
"It seems the gods have noticed us." in try's to say, but no words emerge. He sits calmly waiting for what is to come. He looks intently at the figure we see once again, for some sign or acknowledgement.
Xenia Thursday May 31st, 2007 1:09:51 PM
A girl's eye just can't help but be drawn to the sparklies. But soon the uncountable, overwhelming wealth blurs to the single well encapsulated concept of yeah, rich. After that it loses its interest and falls into the background of general detail.
Much more interesting, are the changes in her companions. Older and wiser? That air of being ... distinguished? Or, maybe just that air of respect that comes with just being an older guy.
And there's Wynn ... If there were any doubt that he would grow more handsome with age, they are now dispelled.
Um ... Hello? With tongues stilled and bodies immobile, the only thing left is to think. Xenia thinks at the strange good looking old man watching the group. Can you hear me? If you can ... um ... well ... Thank you.
OoC: Both Xenia and Wynn are half-elves.
Angus Thursday May 31st, 2007 5:17:33 PM
Angus looks around and it takes a few moments to figure out what is going on. Then the sorcerer ties to speak, which he is prone to, but can not. Angus thinks to himself, I knew we would make it. I wonder how wer got here. Did I miss all of the great adventures?,
Angus tries to search his memories for how he got to this point and more importantly time. Angus also reaches back into his mind and attempts to determine if he has more spell potential, he must be more powerful along with all of his friends.
Once Angus is done thinking of himself ha considers that maybe he should try to communicate with whoever or whatever is holding him, Hello all powerful being or beings. Do you want something of us? Did we do something wrong at some point in time?
Angus ties a new tact as maybe he now has telepathy and he thinks at each of his friends in turn ' Can you hear me? Think back a response.,
DM George Thursday May 31st, 2007 8:22:08 PM
The group realize that they cannot move their mouths to sing songs or talk but still they can hear each other. All can hear Wynn's song in their heads and take comfort in it.
This time they know they are in the presence of a divinity. Binberry knows that he is in the presence of his Lord and God Domi. He moves among them, his passage both silent but loud at the same time. His steps make no noise on the stone floor but his aura seems to shout out his majesty and serenity. He is silent for many moments studying them all. He stares each one in the face and seems to be examining their souls. Finally he speaks and the sound of his voice is both crushing in its power, but soothing in its tone. "My children, your time is upon you. The Wold has many people who are petty or scared. They can not look past their own lives to the greater good. You have been observed for your short time on this Wold and it has been determined that you have the makings of real heroes. Xenia, you could easily have turned to evil following your heritage. You could have let the scared looks on the streets of the Floating City turn you away from mankind and goodness but you have embraced it, and its children and have earned your chance.
Belkior, you have been steadfast in your belief of non violence, even when you have witnessed horrors. You have accepted change but stayed true to your beliefs and so have earned your chance.
Lang, you have been remade, but still where many would have looked upon themselves in pity, you have accepted it and moved on to be a shinning example to others and so have earned your chance.
Angus, your crust is selfish and lazy but it is only a crust to protect you from the Wold. Underneath you are giving and brave and have earned your chance.
Wynn, you have proven yourself already to be brave and self sacrificing. You can show love to all and so have earned your chance.
Syr, you have a generosity of spirit and care for the lives of your friends and strangers. You have the potential to be great if only you would step forward more. You have earned your chance.
Binberry, as my servant, you have earned your chance and it is you who I am relying on to help bring your companions through. This task will be the most difficult you have ever faced and the chances of you all surviving is slim.
Lang & Sunshine Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:33:37 PM
Lang is shocked when the God Domi reveals himself to Lang and the rest of the Shields. He tries to kneel in respect, but cannot as only his eyes and mind appear to be working.
He is even more amazed when the God talks to him personally, talking of Lang's strength and resolve when faced with the physical change he has gone through.
Lang listens to the rest of the Domi's analysis of the Shield's. He is even more puzzled and curious about the test they will have to go through.
Belkior Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:56:12 PM
The halfling cleric struggles against the invisible, insubstantial bonds that hold him. Then, when Domi appears before the group, Belkior stops. If he could, he would be kneeling before Alemi's friend, protector and servant. But he cannot.
The Paragon of Alemi wonders at the nature of this test that the Shields will face. Whatever it is, it will surely test their resolve and valor.
JohnP (OOC) Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:59:01 PM George
Thanks for the heads-up about the coming module. Since you are taking no mercy for non-posters, are you going to adopt a more regular posting schedule? I ask because I have a limited window for posting to the Wold (roughly 8:00 p.m. WT to 11:00 p.m.), and I frequently find that I am posting just before or after your posts, thereby missing a day.
I know it can some times be tough. I normally post between 9-11 EST. Combat normally takes me longer and I do normally check to see if anyone has posted while I am writing the post. If you think you are running late, send me a quick email telling me you are posting and I will try to accomidate you. Of course your other option is to be the first poster. Just what until I have posted every night and post the same night after me. That would solve your problems too. George
Syr Thursday May 31st, 2007 11:59:12 PM
Syr watches in awe as Domi walks amoungst them. Thrilled to be in the god's presence, he stares entranced at every movement the being makes.
As the man speaks, his attention is riveted. Listening carefully, his emotions rise from the pleasure of hearing such a voice to despair from the being's words. He withdraws his thoughts from the group as he interpets the god's words to mean that he is a coward. Filled with shame, he refuses to look at the others.
DM George OOC Friday June 1st, 2007 8:30:30 AM
OOC Xenia gets a extra 100 xp for her fine role play of her pain on the Catacombs board. Nice job Al but don't think your bringing that damn pixie with you on the adventure. To bad Zat wasn't in the Catacombs at the time, might have has a quick snack while you were down.
Bin Friday June 1st, 2007 11:34:45 AM
Bin is puzzled by the way Domi is interacting with them. "Why would he hold us in such a way? Why are we on thrones? Where the Nirvana are we? Is this the test or the prelude to the test?"
Bin trys to hide his thoughts from the others as he thinks about the hard times he had growing up. Getting beat up and driven off to the next area. All of that made him what he is today, and that has earned him a chance. He remembers not being able to eat anything but bugs and maggots for days until someone took pity on him, and that has earned him a chance?
A single tear rolls from his left eye as he comes to terms with his past and his future.
"let's get this thing started then. If something needs to be done, putting it off just delays the inevitable."
OOC: DM George, do we have fresh spells at this point, or do I need to mark off a Commune and Detect Magic spell, from Samsons?
Xenia Friday June 1st, 2007 1:45:52 PM
Domi. This is Domi.
It's not possible. It can't be possible. And yet it's there: The feeling of having met this guy before. Before. Yeah. Or maybe from now? Sometime in the future a hundred years in the past. It's all so confusing. Like a dream, but more real.
In the dream, Domi's a good guy. Real straight, but a good guy. He's worried about his friend. Alemi. He's worried about Alemi. It's good to be worried about your friends.
"You get us through this, Bin," the girl rogue thinks at the new guy in the group. "We're behind you. We got faith in you."
Wynn Friday June 1st, 2007 5:20:23 PM
The bard listens intently to the god's decree, searching for meaning in each word, just as the others are doing.
Angus Friday June 1st, 2007 7:13:01 PM
Angus is speechless when he realizes who is talking to him. Not a religious man, he is still in awe of the power and intelligence of the god.
Angus contemplates the God's words and what they mean.
DM George Friday June 1st, 2007 10:35:07 PM
Domi continues his speech, I am sending you all on a quest of the utmost importance. You must stop this evil or the Wold we live in could be drastically changed and the powers of darkness, domination and evil could gain enough momentum to plunge the Wold into darkness and despair. For years he has been spreading his influence and several years ago his power took great strides forward. The Wold will need heroes to combat him and his minions in the years to come. These chairs and crowns that you sit upon and wear represent a possible destiny for you. One that could come to be, if you survive this challenge. Still all steel must be forged in fire or it is weak. You could be weapons of greatness for the forces of light but you are still untempered and unproven steel. This test will prove if you have what it takes to help guide the future. If you have what it takes to become leaders and heroes for all of the noble races to look up to. I wish you luck.
The group finds themselves in a new place. The terrain is rocky and filled with scrub grass and low wind bent trees. A massive mountain lies to the southeast. It is easily 30 miles away but still dominates the skyline. The group can hear a bell sounding nearby.
They are dressed in their normal gear and have all of their normal adventuring equipment.
ooc OK I am gone for a week. Be nice to Nellie.
Bin d20+8=19 d20+6=25 d20+4=11 Saturday June 2nd, 2007 2:17:15 PM
The priest is capable of moving again, so he stretches momentarily as he views the scene around him. "Dropped off in the middle of nowhere. I supposed we have started the test. I suggest we try to find the bell sound and follow it. It might be where our starting information lies."
OOC: Second time I asked this. Do we have full compliment of spells, or do I need to mark of Commune and Detect Magic from Samsons?
Actions: Spot the scenery: 19 Listen for bells direction: 25 Survival for True North: 11
Belkior Saturday June 2nd, 2007 10:49:04 PM
The halfling cleric nearly falls when he finds himself in this new place. Like always, Belkior is experiencing the slightest nausea after that teleportation.
Once he swallowed once or twice and kept his eyes on the horizon, Belkior looks around at his surroundings. Certainly not like anything near the Floating City. Nor Plateau City, for that matter. Perhaps Lang will have a better sense of where they are. Or, it might be time to petition Alemi for some answers.
Bin's suggestion about following the bell seems reasonable. So Belkior turns to his companions and says, "Ask not for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee."
"Or we. Whatever. It doesn't matter, really. We're going to need information, shelter and possibly transport. That bell is a start."
Lang & Sunshine d20+14=22 d20+16=22 d20+6=21 Sunday June 3rd, 2007 5:52:21 PM
Lang looks around at his friends after they are transported by the God to a new location. He checks on Sunshine to make sure he is ok.
With a quick nod to the group and a "Stay put", Lang starts to do some scouting of the immediate vicinity.
He looks for tracks or a path. He also tries to determine where they may be by checking the sun's position in relationship to where it was before they left.
If he finds anything he will let the others know.
Survival 22 (add +2 for Giants and +4 for plants) Survival Tracking 22 (add +2 for Giants and +4 for plants) Spot 21 (add +2 for Giants and +4 for plants)
Xenia d20+21=35 d20+16=36 Sunday June 3rd, 2007 8:00:52 PM
"Where'dja get that Bell Tolls for me stuff, Belkie?" The rogue kneels at the side of the halfling cleric and lends a hand to help him off the ground. "Sounds like a bard story or sump'n. But I figure you guys are right. Someone's gotta be ringing the bell, right? And from the way the bell sounds, it's gotta be big and that means a place."
Xenia puts a hand to her forehead and scans the horizon, as Lang begins sniffing up tracks. From her pack she pulls a black square of material and removes the silver circlet from her forehead. Folding it from corner to corner she covers her brow with the black bandana and ties it off behind. Then, securing it with her silver circlet, Xenia returns to her watch, covering Lang's back while he concentrates on his mysterious signs of the forest.
Spot 35 Listen 36
Angus Sunday June 3rd, 2007 8:37:58 PM
Angus is not that unsettled by the teleportation as he is used to it with his dimension door spell. He watches as the Lang looks around for tracks.
"Hey Lang can you smell anything? Does it smell different than where we were?"
Syr Sunday June 3rd, 2007 10:43:55 PM
Blinking in surprise at theteleport spell he comments, "Woah, at least before we knew where we were going. I'm not sure I like this test so far."
With a shrug of his shoulders, he turns to the sorceror, "What's the plan Angus, normal scouting formation until we find out more?"
Cocking his head to one side, he listens to the bell, "Anyone got an idea of what time of day it is? I mean unless it's noon... the bell usually means trouble and someone needs help. We may want to speed this up a bit?"
Role Call - ADM Scott the Southern Sunday June 3rd, 2007 10:51:11 PM
Syr XXXXX Angus XXXXX Xenia XXXXX Land XXOXX Belkior XXOXX Bin XXXXX Wynn XXXXX
Wynn d20+12=27 Monday June 4th, 2007 12:07:40 AM
The bard scans his surroundings for anything familiar, plants, the silhouette of familiar hills, anything...[Bardic Knowledge=27].
Angus (second illegal post) d20+2=3 Monday June 4th, 2007 10:34:18 AM
"Alright everyone, let see if we can find the source of the bell. Its sounds foreboding in some way."
Angus give a hard listen attempting to determine direction and distance of the bell.
Listen 3
"Xenia, I am baffled by the bell, where is the sound coming from? What direction?"
Toto, I Don't Think We're in Kansas Anymore (Co-DM Nellie) Monday June 4th, 2007 11:37:24 PM
Putting his skills to good use, Lang scouts the surrounding area. Both his bugbear and his ranger senses tell him that this area is vastly different from Floating and Plateau Cities. The plant life is marked different to his keen eyes, and even the very scents in the air are strange. Nope...definitely not in Kansas anymore...whatever that might mean.
Not long after Lang head out, he easily tracks down a young shepherd and his flock. The encounter is tense, to say the least. Catching scent of the bugbear, the flock disperses immediately, and the boy begins to bolt for cover...a death grip on his crook.
Meanwhile, the remaining Crimsons try and determine where that pesky ringing might be coming from. Angus doesn't have a clue, but Xenia's keen ears figure it's coming from quite a distance away...somewhere along the lines of 2 miles to the north.
Wynn carefully studies the surrounding area to get a better idea of where in the Wold they might be. That huge mountain...looming to the southwest...no doubt that has to be the infamous Shadow Mountain. The forest to the east...so far away...and yet...Wynn could swear that he saw some of the trees move. Could that possibly be the notorious Culverwood, home of the Emerald Dragons? At this point in time, it is impossible to know the group's exact location, but Wynn is at least able to assume that they are still on the Continent of Yrth.
OOC: Will try and post consistently around 10:30 pm EST. Please have your posts in by then. I am afraid the group has not rested yet, so mark off any spells cast thus far.
Angus Tuesday June 5th, 2007 12:06:17 AM
Once Lang report that he has scared off the locals he slaps the big Bugbear on the back "You do realize that they will be coming after you with pitchforks and torches."
Angus breaths a sigh of relief as Xenia points out the way to the bell. "Bless those cute ears of your Xenia. Lang can you find us a reasonable path toward the direction that Xenia indicated?
After Wynn describes his thoughts on the area, Angus adds "Well we are not sure what the locals are like so lets take precautions." Angus casts mage armor on himself. "Lets be careful people. Lang and Syr up front, Xenia and Wynn as rovers moving from flank to flank and the rear and Bin, Belkior and myself following fifty feet behind Land and Syr. Any other suggestions? If not, lets move out. I did not purchase enough wine to be out in the woods for too long." Angus readjusts his big floppy leather hat and takes a few steps in the direction that Xenia indicated, but he waits for Lang and Syr to take the lead.
Before Xenia and Wynn take off roving, Angus will ask "So Wynn, if the Shadow mountain a friendly and peaceful area?
Spells in effect:
Mage armor - 10 hours
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 12:48:22 AM
Bin cinches up his backpack and waits for the others to head out before he follows. "You know Angus, that may well be a problem for us if the locals think they are being invaded."
Syr d20+9=14 Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:08:30 AM
Syr nods at Angus and peers in the direction of the bells looking for any signs of trouble. (spot 14)
With a dramatic sweep of a hand, "After you O terrorizer of small children... I'll lag a few feet behind so as not to disturb anything your eyes might pick up." He waits for Lang to move and then trails slightly behind and to the side of the ranger.
Calling back over his shoulder he grins and asks Bin, "Can you imagine if we put Lang and Xenia on point? The village would be deserted before the rest of us arrived." Moving ahead, he tries to keep the smile off his face lest Lang turn around.
Xenia d20+21=41 d20+16=25 d20+22=36 d20+13=29 Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:27:17 AM
"It just looks all so peaceful here, you know." The rogue once again raises a gloved hand to shade her eyes and scans the terrain about the group. She takes a deep breath of the country air and lets it out with a smile.
"But, you know, if this is a test and all, I guess we should be on our guard from the start, huh?"
"Hey, uh, I'm gonna try something new here. I think I got it worked out to how to do this thing. And if I do, that should fix any probs for me, Syr." The rogue sticks her pink tongue out at Syr before stepping behind Wynn and disappearing into his shadow.
"Whaddya know. hehehe ... " Xenia's soft chuckle comes from an ill defined place near her handsome bard sweetie. "So, um, you might not see me." The voice moves in the direction of the distant bell. "But I'll be around."
Spot 41 /Nat 20, Listen 25, Hide 36, Move Silently 29 (-5 Penalty taken on Hide & MS for Full Movement)
Lang & Sunshine d20+16=21 Tuesday June 5th, 2007 7:50:28 PM
Lang smiles as the group teases him about scaring off the locals. Oh well, he knows that the good stuff from his new form outways the bad stuff.
"He didn't have to run away. I wasn't going to eat him, but the sheep did look tasty."
He takes point with Syr guarding his back. He tries to lead Syr over a few rough spots to try and trip him up for his comments. He keeps looking for tracks or other things of interest.
Tracking 21
Belkior Tuesday June 5th, 2007 9:02:41 PM
The halfling cleric looks around at the area, nodding as he does now that Wynn has identified the location of this place. When Angus announces the marching order, Belkior will move to his assigned place.
"Angus, maybe we should make a point of having either Wynn or myself do the talking. Lang's friendly, but the locals seem to hold negative concepts of bugbears."
Wynn d20+12=23 Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:25:59 PM
Wynn smiles as Xenia slips in and out of his shadow. He used to worry that Syr's sharp tongue would wound her, but Xenia's quick reply spoke otherwise.
"If that is indeed Shadow Mountain and the Culverwood to the east, then these would be the Windborne Hills and somewhere to the east and north lies the Cinnamon Valley and my home. I have travelled over much of these hills and know them to be a place of small kingdoms at each others throats. Treachery and deceit are not unknown, nor are other forms of evil, but the farmers and villagers are a good sort. I've heard tales of birdmen that swoop down from the mountain tops, stooping like hawks on a rabbit to impale their enemies. Never seen one, just heard the tales."
Wynn searches his memory for more details about the mountain itself, and any legends that surround it. [Bardic Knowledge=23, any bonuses for being from the area??]
On the Road again (Co-DM Nellie) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:45:07 PM
Heading toward the north, Lang easily picks up a set of fresh, humanoid tracks. Whoever left them was traveling in a hurry and very recently. The bleating of a nearby herd of goats sounds almost frantic as if they were sudden unguarded.
Try as he might, Wynn can't think of anymore useful information to pinpoint their location. The Windborne hills are a large territory and with such a small amount of information to work with, Wynn is left trying groping in the dark.
Following tracks that a blind man could follow, Syr and Lang lead the group to a dirt trail that winds toward the north. After a short while, the Shields spot a quaint village made up of mainly small low stone houses. Dotted among the hills are poor farms trying to eek out a living growing vegetable and raising goats. Even from a distance they can see a building under construction which has the makings of a church.
After further travel, the ringing bell is clearly heard just up ahead. From their forefront position, Syr and Lang see a small group of humans gathered together clutching various farming implements. A young boy stands at the front of the group and begins pointing frantically in the direction of the Shield's scouts.
Angus Wednesday June 6th, 2007 12:01:03 AM
Angus sees the prediciment in the village. "Hey, big scary bugbear, hang out here with sunshine while the rest of us check on the locals. Does anyone volunteer to stay back and keep Lang company?"
Angus will cast message on the group, pointing to each in turn. "Lets keep in communication. Lang you have to occasionally look at me and find a spot to watch us within 800 feet. I will keep you in the loop."
Angus will stride purposely forward, toward the village "Shall we see what Domi has in our path. Bin are you getting any feelings for this course of action? Does it have any Domi qualities to it or is it too soon?"
"Xenia do you want to come in the village from the back side, using your new abilities? I will not break any land speed records getting down there." Angus points to the village.
Xenia d20+23=39 d20+13=30 d20+21=35 d20+16=23 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 10:16:51 AM "They don't look like they'd be much trouble, Angus," the rogue whispers from out of the shadows. "Look like folks who are just kinda, you know, like, scared."
"But I'll go 'round anywho and see what I can see."
Just in case, though ... The rogue lifts up her hand and whispers to her ring. Her dark drow born color turns a creamy peach. A pattern of freckles dots the skin beneath the lenses perched upon the bridge of her nose.
Finding the trail of shadows that will get you where you want to go and moving from one to the next isn't all too difficult. Not all too unusual either. Neat and quiet. Never hurts to be careful. But, then again, if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, what else can it be?
Rolls and Actions Hide 39, Move Silently 30, Spot 35, Listen 23 (Hide and MS rolled with -5 Penalty for Full Movement)
Active Effects Disguise Self (50 min) Message (100 min)
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) d20+8=18 d20+8=26 d20+4=11 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:28:23 PM
At the mention of bird people, Bin looks to the sky's, fairly regularly, from then on.
Bin looks toward the church to discern what what design it may be off and also looks for signs of religion.
"Lets leave our weapons with lang and approch with our hands free, smiling. They will be scared and we will comfort them by explaining ourselves. If for some reason they are aggressive, we will first try to subdue them, unless they have skills we are not aware of yet."
Spot the sky:18 Spot the building for church design:26 Religion of the church:11
Wynn d20+18=33 d20+15=25 d20+13=22 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 5:28:03 PM
Wynn pulls his cap from his vest and places it on his head. A few minor adjustments and he has taken on the appearance of the local villagers he grew up with in the Cinnamon Valley. He stoops slightly as he approaches the boy and his companions and those around him would think him to be a well worn if not frail wandering minstrel.
"Good day friends" he will greet the boy and his companions. "Please do not be alarmed for I know we must look quite the sight. I was hoping you might tell us where we are. My companions and I seem to have taken a wrong turn and lost our bearings."
Lang & Sunshine Wednesday June 6th, 2007 6:33:31 PM
Lang & Sunshine find a nice shady spot under a tall tree to rest. They will probably get themselves into trouble without him, but then again they would probably get into more with him.
He takes out his new bow wondering if he will get a chance to use it soon.
Syr d20+18=31 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 8:04:41 PM
Seeing the villagers Syr waves an arm enthusiastically in greeting. Not wanting to be left behind like Lang, he joins the others as they approach.
As Wynn addresses the others he focuses on the boy, "You must be the brave shepard that spotted my friend." He squats down to address the boy in a calming, peaceful manner (Diplomacy 31).
Belkior d20+6=26 d20+4=11 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:11:09 PM
The halfling cleric will move ahead with Wynn, trusting that the local people will recognize his devotion to Alemi. Of course, because of that devotion, Belkior will not bother trying to disguise himself. He nods when Wynn speaks to the locals, and elaborates only slightly.
"Yes, my companions and I have lost our way. Can you tell us what place lies ahead?"
Diplomacy = 26 (natural 20) Gather Information = 11 (enough to Aid Another)
Welcome to Stonegap (Co-DM Nellie) Thursday June 7th, 2007 12:34:12 AM
Various disguises are adopted and new modes of transportation are explored.
The bell stops ringing abruptly as the Shields arrive. The young man points his finger in excitement as Syr speaks. "See!! See John?!! I told you there was a monster out there!" There is a tense moment before the lad puffs up at Syr's complement. "Yeah, that was me in the fields... You're friends with that...thing?!" There is a mixture of awe and fear in the young man's voice.
A large, broad-chested man steps forward and lays a calming hand on the adolescent's shoulder. "Didn say I was doubting you Jacob. Everybody knows you're an honest man." The man smiles good naturedly as the Shields approach and give their introductions. "I'm John Broadshoulders. Lost your way, eh? That's too bad. Well, maybe we can help you out. This here's Stonegap. We're a small, but honest bunch...always willing to help when we can. Let's see here...what lies ahead. Well, I s'pose you'd probably want to be making your way to the Windborne Hills...though if your looking for something more exciting, Shadow Mountain would be the way to head. All depends on what you had in mind. Maybe it'd help if you told me where you was heading?"
John pauses for a few moments, running his fingers through his short cropped black hair, apparently considering his next words wisely before he utters them. "If you don't mind me asking...how is it that you came to be traveling with a errrrmm...creature? And what sort of thing is it? We got lots of young ones around and, no offense, I won't see any harm come to them."
Keeping mostly to himself, Bin is able to take a good look at the village. It is made up of around 10 families (judging from the number of dwellings). It is a simple place with few amenities and though you can see life is hard, the people look mostly happy. There is no store, there is no tavern or inn. All that exists are the homes, barns and out buildings of the families. The church appears to be very new compared to the other buildings and is still under construction. Above the main entrance there is the high Woldian symbol of Ga'al. As he scans the skies, Bin does not notice anything resembling "birdmen"...just vibrant blue sky from horizon to horizon.
Angus d20+10=25 Thursday June 7th, 2007 8:31:59 AM
Angus smiles broadly upon hearing introductions and offers his hand "I am Angus Deminoff, very pleased to meet you and Jacob. Jacob did see our scout, he is a big hairry one. A human ranger that was transformed by some powerful druid magic into a bugbear. His name is Lang and he is playing with his dog a ways back so as not to upset your lot. You really have nothing to fear from him. I will call him in if you are comfortable with the idea?"
Angus wait for a response before continuing and if they are comfortable he will use the message spell to call Lang back to the group. "We were transported to your neck of the woods John by some powerful forces and without any fore knowledge. Anything you can tell us of the area would be helpful. You putting in a new church? We have two in our company that serve a higher purpose. Do you have a Cleric in you village? I am sure the faithful would have plenty to talk about."
Angus will again wait for a response before continueing "If you do not mind we may camp out in your neigbourhood, that is unless you can offer us beds. We can pay our way."
Xenia d20+28=45 d20+18=22 d20+21=38 d20+16=22 Thursday June 7th, 2007 9:00:25 AM "If the box looks simple on the outside, Little Xenia, make sure that you look on the inside before putting your hand in." It's what her Da used to say. Used to say it talking 'bout the darndest things too.
The rogue remains in hiding. Tuning an ear back toward the conversation, she inspects the buildings. All pretty much the same. Except for that Church Place. That's where the Tour of the Town would start.
"Hey, Wynn? Angus?" she whispers over the Message spell. "Ask 'em what the bell was about. Wasn't 'cause of us. It was going long before they knew we were here. I'm gonna take a private look around."
Then, slow and quiet, Xenia begins poking around little the place, starting with the Church Type Building.
Active Effects Disguise Self (50 min) Message (100 min)
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Thursday June 7th, 2007 1:04:12 PM
Bin decides to stay with Lang and Sunshine as the others approch. He carries on with small talk if lang is interested, but remains alert in any case. He is unsure if angus was kidding about birdmen or not, but he can't help but look up on occassion, just to make sure.
Belkior d20+13=26 d20+6=21 Thursday June 7th, 2007 9:20:53 PM
The halfling cleric stands beside Wynn as the townsfolk greet them. Of course, Belkior is now consumed with curiosity about the church in the village. He easily recognizes the symbol of Ga'al on the building, and that the building is much newer than the homes. He will look about trying to determine how long the village has been here. And for signs of a previous chapel or other religious building. Knowledge Religion = 26 Spot = 21
"I am Belkior Orvisson, Paragon of Alemi. I am pleased to meet you. I noticed your church there, I didn't think that the church of Ga'al was present this far north. I would be pleased to conduct a service if any of your village are especially devoted to Alemi. Or, for that matter, tend to any ailments that your people suffer from."
Belkior has heard the question about the party's destination, but he doesn't intend to answer it. His recollection of the dream didn't include any specific destination.
Wynn d20+12=21 d20+7=14 Thursday June 7th, 2007 9:49:23 PM
The bard recognizes the symbol of Ga'al upon the church, but does his best to disguise his knowledge. Instead he looks around for the tell-tale sign that any of these men have been heart-seeeded, a ritual he has heard sung of but never actually seen. [Bardic Knowledge = 21; Spot=14]
Lang & Sunshine Thursday June 7th, 2007 9:50:56 PM
Lang & Sunshine rest comfortably with Bin while waiting to for the group to wave them in or to come back to Lang & Bin. He notices Bin watching the sky.
"What are you looking for Bin?"
After Bin tells him about the bird people Lang says, "Well that doesn't make them evil just because they can fly. But then again attacking people doesn't sound to good. They probably won't fly very well if I stick a few arrows into them."
If he gets the signal, the three of them will move in towards the village and meet up with the group.
Open Invite...Sort of...(Co-DM Nellie) Friday June 8th, 2007 1:55:16 AM
Most of the Shields continue to scout the village as Lang, Sunshine and Bin hang back a bit.
John looks very relieved at Angus' assurances of the safety of allowing Lang into the village. There is however, a small bit of lingering hesitation. "It would be an honor to share our humble village with you. But I must insist on meeting this friend of yours first. Not that I doubt your word, mind ya, but I just gotta see him for myself." The middle aged man shakes his head vehemently at the offer of gold. "What kinda people would we be if we couldn't help out lost travelers?" There is another awkward pause. "Your friend...he don't eat much does he?"
The topic changes, and John takes a more comfortable tone. "I just hate it when powerful forces pick me up and drop me somewhere strange..." the man chuckles, a lighthearted and friendly sound. "Well...normally I would say nothing much happens in Stonegap. We're a simple folk. As for the surrounding area...can't really say a whole lot. I don't get around as much as you folk do. But it has been nice that the hawkmen have been more quiet recently." There is the faintest flicker of a frown as John continues. "Course those Ga'al priests will take the credit for it, but personally, I say the raids that party of giants that passed up North musta taken them out." John shrugs.
The ever present smile returns when Angus informs him of not one, but two clerics in the party. "We'd love to have ya talk to the folks...you know lift 'em up a bit. Before them Ga'al folk came callin' it's been years since we had a cleric drop by our little town."
Belkior looks the town over. It's clear that the townsfolk's buildings are older...several years by the look of it. There are no signs of a previous chapel or any other religious type building. Looks to be a wide open market. When he mentions Ga'al spreading this far North, John shrugs. "Yeah, hadn't heard of it either, but then one day, here they come walking up the road and telling us if we'll just trust Ga'al, everything'll be ok." The frown is more noticeable this go round. "Some of the young ones are starting to take a real interest, especially when them priests were telling of the advantages that the heartseeds can give 'em." John sighs deeply, worry clear on his face as he shoots the briefest of looks over at Jacob.. "Got some of older ones thinking about joining one of them "Quads". I just don't know about that..." Jacob's shoulders sag a little, but the boy is too well manner to express his opinions on the matter in front of his elder.
Wynn takes a covert look at the people around him and doesn't think any of the villagers appear to be heartseeded. By all accounts, it's a fairly pronounced feature that the followers of Ga'al are purported to proudly display.
Flitting from shadow to shadow, Xenia makes her way toward the chapel. Although still a work in progress, this building is by far the nicest one in the village. Just inside the doorway, a young man clothed in the blood red robes of Ga'al is consulting with a few stonemasons on the design for the altar area. The man smiles and nods as the masons show him some plans. Xenia watches the exchange for several minutes and notes that the priest is very polite and helpful as he heads outside to help the masons unload the latest shipment of brick.
Lang, Sunshine and Bin take a nice relaxing break as they wait for the others to return. In a way, it's nice out here. Good to be back in the fresh air of the wide open country where you can see for miles. No noise but the occasional bleating of a goat and the faint sounds of children's laughter. In a way, you can see why someone would choose to live this far from civilization.
Angus d20+10=23 Friday June 8th, 2007 9:34:36 AM
Angus is very pleased with the reception from John "Well John, lets have you meet our former human companion, Lang, and you can make your own judgements. I do say that he eat just what you and I do, but enough to satisfy his size. I average things out as I eat next to nothing." Angus flexes his boney arms in order to make fun of himself for everyones benefit.
Angus will point at Lang and Bin "Lang. Bin. Come on down and meet the nice townfolk."
Angus get a bit more serious "John, so these hawkmen are dangerous, I know giants are? How is it that they have not overrun the village? It sounds like you have some nasty neighbors."
After John responds, Angus will add "What brought us here was your bell. What is its purpose?"
Bin Friday June 8th, 2007 11:02:14 AM
To answer Lang's statement, "Your right, that does not make them evil, but I also know for a fact that being aware of your surrounding's is a good deterrant to those that may find someone weak or unprepared, despite their character."
When called up, Bin walks up to the others and introduces himself as a Protector of Domi.
Once he hears about the temple to Ga'al, he does not seem surprised to see a priest go where there are no others. It is easier to heard the flock with one sheppard, then when there is more then one sheppard that herds the flock to their own stables.
"Interesting you have problems with giants and Ga'al takes the form of a giant. Irony perhaps?"
A test that involves the gods of Testing. That's not irony, that is dangerous, indeed.
Syr Friday June 8th, 2007 12:22:57 PM
As Lang and Bin come down to join the others he asks Jacob, "Why don't I introduce the two of you? Don't worry, he can be very gentle around small folk like us." If Jacob consents, he and the boy meet them halfway and he introduces the shepard with a wink at Lang.
As they walk he asks Jacob, "I noticed that you were doing a great job watching over the sheep. Have you lost any lately? If so, what do you think got them?"
Xenia d20+2=5 Friday June 8th, 2007 3:47:43 PM
"There's a priest guy here at the church," Xenia reports back over the Message spell. "Young guy. Red robes. Looks nice enough. Not too high and priesty to get down and do some lifting and toting."
"Ga'al. He's a Testing God, ain't he? What's with that? Warrd's a Tester too and he's not so bad."
"I'm gonna check the rest of the houses. Don't look for me. I'll find you."
(Knowledge Religion 5 untrained. Nothing here.)
Belkior Friday June 8th, 2007 9:34:38 PM
The halfling cleric takes John's word as spoken, nodding to his companions and wandering into the village. Belkior doesn't do anything to call attention to himself, he simply goes down the central street until he sees someone in need of help.
If the priest of Ga'al notices Belkior, the halfling will nod in a friendly manner.
Lang & Sunshine Saturday June 9th, 2007 12:08:52 PM
Lang & Sunshine move towards the village with Bin. He will put his bow away and go into the village unarmed. He says hello to everyone and tries not to scare anyone away this time.
Wynn Saturday June 9th, 2007 12:11:05 PM
The bard relaxes once he hears the worry in John's voice over the interest in Ga'al being shown by the young ones. "You're right to be worried my friend, for giving up one's freedom of choice is no small matter." he says in a quiet whisper.
Role Call - ADM Scott the Southern Monday June 11th, 2007 2:23:27 AM
Only one post missed, Syr on Thursday.
-----------------------------
Is it just me or did we miss a Dm post this week?
JimF/Angus
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, I think.
Al/Xenia
Sorry guys, meant to make up the post on Sunday but found out I didn't have internet access while on vacation. My appologies!!---Nellie
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Monday June 11th, 2007 10:15:13 AM
"I will not assume that a god of testing is here for harm. There is no harm in courage and facing ones foes with an eager smile. It is when they are adamant about spreading their faith that they over step their roles as teachers and protectors and become intruders. Perhaps I should go straight away to this priest and help them unload some supplies as well as get to know the man behind the robes." Then looking to the others, "If you agree with the idea that is?"
DM George Monday June 11th, 2007 10:32:58 PM
The group continues their conversation with the village elders as Xenia keeps an eye on the Priest of Ga'al as he helps build his church. Xenia spots another red robed figure leave the church and head towards the Crimson Shields and others.
Wynn spots him first as he makes his way towards the group. "Hello! Welcome! Welcome to Stonegap. Ga'al be praised. There must be more priests here today than who have ever been here in the history of Stonegap. My name is Father Avorn, priest of Ga'al, here on missionary work spreading the good word. You have the look of experienced adventurers? The kind who are to busy smiting evil and killing monsters to administer to a humble flock. Are you just passing through? What brings you here?"
Avorn is a good looking man with sandy blonde hair, blue eyes and a bright smile. He extends his hand towards Bin and asks, "Have you eaten? You must join us for a meal. My brother and I so seldom get to talk theology with our brother clerics of different faiths. Will you join us?"
Angus Monday June 11th, 2007 10:44:16 PM
Angus nods to the cleric of Ga'al "Well met good sire." Angus watches John and the young shepards reactions to the priest.
Angus adds "Food is always welcome, but so in information for the road ahead for travelers that are lost and do not know the area." Angus produces two bottles of red wine from his haversack. "Wine always helps the digestion, at least for me anyways."
Wynn d20+7=21 Monday June 11th, 2007 11:40:24 PM
His appearance still altered by the hat he wears, the worn looking wandering minstrel, ducks his head at the appearance of the priest. Through appraising eyes, he tries to sense the fellows motives. (Sense motive=21)
Xenia d20+28=45 d20+18=34 d20+21=36 d20+16=27 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 9:18:07 AM
"I'm going into the church," the rogue reports. "If you don't hear from me, means I'm probs in trouble. 'Kay?"
With movements like a gentle breeze, Xenia ghosts through the doorway of the temple of Ga'al to report back to the group what she finds within.
(Hide 45, Move Silently 34, Spot 36, Listen 27)
Belkior (Sub/Al) d20+8=15 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:40:16 AM
The Vestments of Alemi make Belkior's affiliation quite plain. He nods politely to Father Avorn of Ga'al.
"Belkior Orvisson," the halfling cleric gives his own name in return. "The philosophies of Alemi and Ga'al are not necessarily incompatible. Though I think in the tenor of their approach they tend to clash."
The vestments of this one might be revealing, and Belkior takes in his appearance to determine whether or not he's of the teaching Durian caste, or the more aggressive Aisil caste. (Knowledge Religion 15)
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) d20+4=5 d20+5=15 d20+9=21 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 11:14:38 AM
Bin, not appearing to be taken aback by the priest of Ga'al and his acknowledgment of the Protector. He smiles at the fellow priests generosity, yet there is something about it that does not sit well with him. "Actually, I would like to spend most of my time in missionary work. I just spent a week on the outskirts of Plateau City visiting the flock. It is only when I need to chase off or kill the wolves, will I be distracted from the masses. There is no abundance of courage in this small world, as you may well be aware."
In regard to Angus's statement, "I apologize Angus, but I feel I must correct you in one regard." Looking the priest of Ga'al in the eyes, he explains, "I feel we are exactly where we are supposed to be at the exact time we should be, regardless of our experience with the destination. I would not call that lost."
When offered a meal Bin replies, "Only if it is the hour for such, but I am just as inclined to help around the village with chores that need tending to. I see there is a new building in town, can we have a tour please?"
Knowledge Religion for sect of Ga'al: 5 (natural 1) Sense Motive for addressing Bin directly instead of the group as a whole: 15 Diplomacy to show lack of concern for a priest of testing being present: 21 Lousy rolls in general)
Syr Tuesday June 12th, 2007 3:48:35 PM
Disappointed that the boy did not answer his question, the monk observes the proceedings in silence.
DM George Tuesday June 12th, 2007 8:41:14 PM
Angus pulls out a couple bottles of wine and offers them to the Ga'alian priest all the while watching the crowds reaction. He doesn't see anything out of character. Some seem happy to see the priest, while others ignore him. None seem afraid.
Xenia creeps towards the church under construction and sees men moving rocks and fitting them into walls. The other cleric is helping. He seems younger than the one she noticed walking away. He is also good looking but not as handsome as Wynn.
Belkior answers the priest back stating his intention in helping the sick and asks for a tour of the church.
Wynn also watches closesly trying to read the intentions of the Priest of Ga'al but what is there to sense? The cleric seems earnest and friendly.
Avorn is only to happy to take the group on the tour. He links arms with Bin and strolls him towards the building under construction. "We are happy to provide a church for these poor settlers who don't have a church to attend to comfort them. All the costs are being subsidized by those of our faith so we don't stress the village beyond what it can handle and we are paying fair wages for those who are interested in working on our structure.
I was so pleased when I got my instructions to build here. As you know, until recently we didn't spread the word of Ga'al beyond our borders but now we are going all throughout the Wold looking for the faithful."
Avorn leads the group around explaining the future layout of the church. Where the alter was going to be, where the windows would be placed and so on.
As Syr is about to follow the others, he feels a tug on his robes and looks down to see Jacob pulling on his sleeve. "Want to see something incredible?" the young shepperd asks? "You have got to see it to believe it? Come on!" The boy scampers away heading out of town.
Belkior d20+13=22 d20+4=18 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 9:18:44 PM OOC - Thanks, Al. Looks like my ISP is back up. And, I need to send you a new character sheet, it seems.
Avorn's words provide some clues, but didn't really answer the halfling cleric's question. Belkior trails along behind Avorn and Bin, trying to discern from Avorn's actions anything about his affiliation. Knowledge Religion = 22
"Avorn, pardon my asking, but you said that your brother was here too? Is he also helping with the construction of the church?"
If there's time, Belkior will try to learn how long the clerics of Ga'al have been in the village, and what their plans are. Gather Information = 18
Lang & Sunshine Tuesday June 12th, 2007 9:36:42 PM
Lang kneels quietly beside his faithful dog Sunshine as the group talks to the cleric and the village leaders. He keeps an uninterested look on his face, playing the role of the big, dumb Bugbear. He does listen as much as he can, but more importantly keeps tabs on his friends as they separate and move about the village.
When Syr moves off with Jacob, Lang gives a command to Sunshine.
"Defend."
Sunshine moves to Syr's side and follows him out of the village.
Wynn Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:52:05 PM
Wynn, still playin the worn traveller, looks for a wall to lean against or a rock to sit on, while the rest of the Shield's get a tour.
When the lad speaks to Syr, the bard looks to Lang, arches an eyebrow and leans his head in the direction of the boy and the elvish pugilist.
Xenia Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:30:52 AM
Xenia enters the church to see what might be inside and reports back her findings.
Syr d20+9=10 d20+5=14 Wednesday June 13th, 2007 3:38:42 AM
As Jacob tries to lead him out of the city, he looks back and raises a questioning eye at his normal partner, Lang. Then, seeing that Sunshine is joining him, he gives the dog a friendly pat and follows after the boy. "Hey Jacob, slow down and wait for Sunshine. What kind of surprise is it anyway?" The elf remains vigilant and careful while following the lad. (Spot nat 1, listen 14)
Bin Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:48:19 PM
"So what leads the priests of Ga'al out of their normal area? Surely you are not short of the devout. Have your priests out grown your populations?" Bin attempts to make small talk as he gathers what information he can from the fellow priest. "I am curious to meet someone that has been Heartseeded. Have you brought someone here that has chosen that course?"
Angus Wednesday June 13th, 2007 4:40:00 PM
Angus melts into the background as all this talk of building structures and spreading the faith sounds so much like work and he does not want to become too entangled.
Angus adds one general question, focusing on John and Avorn "Pardon my ingorance, but how well is Ga'al taken in these parts. I mean, what percentage of the townsfolk follow Ga'al as compared to Domi or Alemi or even Marteus? Just curious how you do verses your competition for the potential souls." Angus smiles gamely?
DM George "Revelations" Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:00:04 PM
The main group meets is introduced to Brother Attil who is obviously and underling to Father Avorn but still a full fledge priest of Ga'al. When asked both will gladly show their heartseeds to the group. "It is painless and brings us so much closer to our God. We are hopeful that most or at least some of the villagers are going to get the procedure."
The heartseed looks like a brown nub protruding from the chest of both men. It seems to be sticking right into the heart and looks fatal except obviously it isn't.
The group through discussion find that the priests have only been in the village for a couple of months. The time here has been good, as they have been healing any injuries and generally helping around the town. Several of the younger people are openly starting to express an interest in Ga'al but no one god seems to be worshiped here like Bin and Belkior follow their dieties but all are respected.
The wine is drunk and several minutes pass looking around the fledgling church and talking of matters religious when Syr is missed. One of the villagers mentions that she saw both Syr and the monster following Jacob up into the hills.
****************************************
Jacob eagerily leads Syr and Lang out into the hills. When pressed he will smile shyly and say, "You are just gonna have to wait and see it. It is amazing.
Afer about 20 minutes of walking, he runs around a tree and wheels out a red shield. Upon examination you don't see any straps and it doesn't look man made.
Lang glancing around finds his the hairs all over his body start to raise. He catches the smell of something but doesn't recognize the scent. Still it is in the air. As he stomps around he sees some birds taking a path in a small pond. After a double take, he realizes that the pond isn't a pond but a huge track. A huge clawed track.
Belkior Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:23:24 PM
The halfling cleric looks quizzically at his companions. The dream sent by Domi could have something to do with these clerics of Ga'al. Or, it might not. Despite his learning and training, Belkior has never been particularly good at understanding the plans and machinations that some gods practice. Perhaps that is why he became a healer - it's simple, really. When someone is sick or injured, heal them.
Belkior is still with his companions when someone notices that Syr and Lang are missing, and then they learn of their departure.
"So, do we go looking for them? Or trust that they're sensible enough not to get into something that they can't handle?"
Lang & Sunshine Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:57:33 PM
The little stroll with Syr and Jordan takes a turn for the worse when Lang picks up an unnatural smell. Then to top it off he spies a footprint, a very large footprint. The good news is that the birds haven't flown away so the creature is probably not that close.
"Syr, Jacob. We need to get back to the village quick. The little pond over there looks like a footprint. By the size of it, I would guess it is a dragon. Javob bring that shield back with you so we can examine it in town."
Lang hustles back to the town with Syr, Jacob and Sunshine. Once there he tells the group what he has seen.
Angus Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:16:56 PM
Angus seems a bit bored by all the talk of the dieties "So which is it Avorn, Bin and Belkior, which dieties have the upper hand? I am so confused with all this?"
When Lang and Syr are discovered missing, Angus pipes up "Lest go find our lost boys. I do not like being split up, especially since we do not know where they went." Angus will move off in the direction that it seems Lang and Syr headed.
Xenia d20+28=42 d20+18=21 d20+21=24 d20+16=35 Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:49:28 PM
Mission discipline. When you're on a mission, you stick with the plan and don't let your guard down. Xenia stays hidden within the shadows cast by her fellow party members. The guys are relying on her to watch their backs, be the surprise card in the deck. So the girl rogue stands in the shadows while the others drink wine.
"Lang's the woodsy guy, Angus. And Syr's with 'em. If two've us were to be getting into trouble out there I'd think they'd be the last one's I'd think of." Xenia's voice comes through the Message spell as though right close by.
"Probs best we stay here. It's where they know to find us. Better'n us running off and getting ourselves lost in the woods."
(Hide 42, Move Silently 21, Spot 24, Listen 35)
Wynn d20+10=23 d20+7=18 d20+7=10 Thursday June 14th, 2007 7:32:11 AM
When Syr and Lang go off with the boy, Wynn follows discretely behind and attempts to go unnotice. (Hide=23)
The bard is alert to any dangers that might lay in wait for his friends, (Spot=18, Listen=10) and he will call out a warning is he sees anything before they do.
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:24:48 AM
Bin is genuinely curious about the heart seeds. When presented and told they hope to get some of the villagers to have the ceremony, Bin asks the two priests of Ga'al a very simple yet important question, "So which one of you will be the one to track down and kill the one in ten that doesn't take? Or do you have someone else come in and do that for you?" Bin has a deep concern about some aspects of the religion, "I'm sure you were going to share that part of the procedure with your future flock? I am also curious to know if you plan on becoming the judges for Stonegap? Or do they have their own justice system already?"
When Bin is offered wine, he turns it down, "Thank you, but I don't drink while on duty."
In regard to Angus's question, Bin look to him with wisdom and guidance. " I'm not exactly sure what you mean by that question Angus. The way I heard it, you make it sound like us priests go around saying my daddy can beat up your daddy and that is not the case at all. Instead, each deity govern's a specific area of influences. Fellow gods tend to leave those influences to the god that controls it, lest the other gods meddle in their own. Now, this is a good example we have here. Both Ga'al and Domi represent courage and a willingness to face ones foes. The differences in this regard is Domi is a sworn protector and associate of another god, with less harsh penalties when one goes astray, where Ga'al is very single minded and expects little to no deviation from his path. To do so may cause one to suffer severe penalties."
Bin is steadily uncomfortable with the sweetness of Father Avorn toward himself. He has never been treated in this way, even by women with whom he has gone to bed and it drives him to have a private conversation with the head priest. Why was he specifically treating Bin a Protector like this? He asks the Father if he could speak to him alone in private. Once aside, Bin comes out with what he has to say, sharing the conversation with the others over the Message spell. "I would like to come out and say straight away, I am concerned about the population here and it may well be due to ignorance about your religion. I will admit, I did not graduate from my seminary the top of the class, but I still remember the harsh specifics of your religion, and I want you to know right now and up front, if at any time I hear the people of this village has lost the ability to have free choice due to your presence, I can be on the other side of this planet and I assure you, I will come back here, with or without my friends to stop you. I tell you this now, man to man, face to face, so that you know when this place crumbles around your ears, who the donkey's anus was who caused it and why it happened. Now as long as you are up front with them all about the heart seed before they take it, what ever they choose of their own free will is their choice and not to be taken lightly."
Bin waits for a response from Father Avorn while they are alone, then as if they had chatted about the masonry work, they rejoin the others.
Syr Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:39:07 AM
Taking a look at the red object, he smiles at Jacob, "Where did you find that?" As the trio begin their return trek, he grabs the boy under the arms and hoists him onto his shoulders, "See there you are almost as tall as Lang. You hold onto the disc and I'll hold onto you."
Syr nods at the small pond his ponytail flailing slightly behind him and examines the size of the track and whistles, "Hey Jacob, are the any sightings or stories of creatures big enough to make that print around here?"
Calling ahead to Lang "Hey Lang, don't you find it a wierd coincidence that the Crimson Shields FIND a crimson shield? I'm betting that Ga'al has something to do with it."
Xenia Thursday June 14th, 2007 1:13:31 PM
Standing unseen in the dark, the dark rogue watches the priesty guy's on both sides and the direction the conversation is going. Her single overriding thought is: Uh oh ...
DM George Thursday June 14th, 2007 9:05:21 PM
DM Ruling: Guys be careful with the message spell. If Angus casts it and includes you in on it, you all can hear what he says and Angus and Angus alone can hear what you say. Bin couldn't include anybody else in the conversation.
Bin pulls aside Avorn and warns him and threatens him, basically telling him he worships a bad religion. Avorn's eyes become very hard and his face pinched. He says in a low grumble, "Don't threaten me in my own church. Domi and Ga'al have been adversaries in the past and I don't expect you to be cordial now but I will preach the word of Ga'al and offer these people the blessings of the heartseed. You can't understand the benefits and peace it brings you. Your God doesn't commune with you like ours does with us. We are in constant contact with him. Does your Domi offer that? My job is to spread the word of Ga'al and I will do so. Feel free to stay here and spread your own words. May the best priest win."
He strides away and calls out to Attil saying, "Brother, it is time to get back to work. Say good bye to our new friends."
Before this happens, Belkior in coversation with the others find out the priests have been in the village for a couple of months.
Jacob, Syr and Lang come striding back up with Jacob holding on to his shield. He seems very excited but also apprehensive at the same time. He runs up to John and says, "Father, look at what we found. We saw a huge footprint too! I hope the flocks are safe!"
Attil walks over to examine the shield and says, "I think we might have a red dragon in the area. This looks like one of their scales. I have seen them on display before.
It is a good thing Ga'al has provided us with this fine group of adventurers right at this moment. I am sure he guided their steps to us to help defeat or drive away this menance."
John turns to the group with a hopeful look in his eyes, "Can you rid us of this monster. It could easily destroy our flocks and carry us away. Is it true? Did Ga'al guide your steps?"
Belkior d20+8=26 Thursday June 14th, 2007 9:47:18 PM
The halfling cleric moves with the others to examine the red thing that Lang, Syr and shepherd brought with them. Belkior peers at it closely, wondering how the priest of Ga'al could so quickly identify it. Belkior can't help but wonder if it belongs to some other creature. Knowledge Arcana = 26
He looks up when John asks if Ga'al guided their steps.
"Actually, it was Domi that directed our steps. Be that as it may, if this truly is sign from a red dragon, we may be able to help. But you should remember that dragon's are intelligent beings, so we will need to be careful and pursue the course that doesn't result in needless bloodshed."
Lang & Sunshine Thursday June 14th, 2007 10:49:39 PM
Lang chuckles to himself as nobody seems to be bothered by Lang the Bugbear now that there is a bigger "monster" to be concerned about. He stays out of the argument over who brought the Crimson Shields to this village.
"Avorn, Attil are you going to help us fight this beast or are you going to hide in your church and pray to your God?"
"John, is there any fighters in town who can help us fight this dragon?"
Angus Friday June 15th, 2007 9:27:25 AM
Angus is amused by the theological debate, but alittle concerned about it turning ugly. "Lets everyone take it easy now. There is no need to get too hot under the coller." And Angus looks at Avorn, Bin and Belkior "I am not a religious man, but let save most of our debate for after the dragon."
Angus looks at Lang and pats him on the back for effect "Good point Lang. Extra warriors would be a big help, but so would extra spell power. Avorn are you ready to put you faith where your mouth is and help us and your new potential flock from this threat. What does Ga'al have to offer? I would be interesting to see how Domi, Alemi and Ga'al behave together and which offers the most benefit to the locals in this situation. We may not all want to be in the same group, but we need to discuss the overall defense of the area."
Angus looks to John to follow up on Lang's inquiries "How would you defend against a dragon? Have there been any people or livestock that are missing? WHere might a beast of such great size hide out?"
Angus muses out loud "Dragons are excellent natural sorcerers also, this could be an interesting learning experience."
Bin Friday June 15th, 2007 11:25:04 AM
Bin wasn't trying to insult the priest, but on hind sight, he can see why he was. However, the priest of Ga'al made an error. Bin was not threatening him, he meant every word he said. "No, my god does not commune with me as yours does, nor does he have people track me down and kill me if I decide to stop being a priest. That is the difference, my god actually loves me for who I am, not what I can do for him. Now I mean what I say, as long as these people are givin a choice to take it or not, you will not have a worry about me."
When joining the others, Bin still acts as if nothing happened, even if Avorn acts disgruntled.
"Syr, it seems the brothers here are hiring quality workers at a fair price. Want to place a bid for your construction crews?" Bin adds with no sarcasim.
Then seeing the shield, he gets down to business again. "Indeed, any families not heard from recently? Who is the justice in this town anyway?"
Once alone with the others Bin speaks his mind. "Although I did taunt the priest of Ga'al, unintentionally, I think they are here for what they say they are. If he had remained as starnge as before, I would think he was up to something, but I'm not so sure now. I think I would like to have a sermon for the citizens in the morning, just to give them a different option from what they have heard recently."
Xenia d20+28=30 d20+21=37 d20+21=37 d20+16=35 Friday June 15th, 2007 12:21:28 PM "Men," the rogue's voice goes the Angus via the Message spell. The skyward roll of her eyes can be heard loud and clear through that simple single syllable word. "Even priesty type men. What's with men and always challenging each other, huh?"
"I'm going to try and get up into the bell tower and see what I can see from up there, Angus. Could be that Dragon's here flying 'bout somewhere."
"Hey, Angus, ask the guy if he can tell how big that Dragon Guy is likely to be. I mean, can you kinda tell by how big the scale is?"
The rogue eyes the way up to the bell tower. Climbing up, huh? She makes her way up has high as she can, raises a hand to shade her eyes and looks out over the land.
(Hide 30, Move Silently 37, Spot 37, Listen 35)
Bit of confusion going on here. Their isn't a bell tower. In fact their isn't even a roof. The church is under construction and the walls are currently being built. From the materials being used and the way the stone is being shaped, this church will take some time to build, but will be a lasting monument to Ga'al when complete. DM George
I guess I had assumed there would be a Bell Tower because we heard a Bell Tolling when we first arrived. Where did the tolling of the bell come from? --Al
A goat :-) George
Bin/Buzz OOC Friday June 15th, 2007 1:40:49 PM
It is true though. I think we asked about the bell several times and we haven't had any answers on it.
----------------------------
I know that at least both Angus and Xenia asked.......
Ummmm...to be more specific, Xenia asked Wynn to ask about the bell which he never did. Not sure when Angus asked about the bell.---Nellie
The rogue steps out the doorway and looks up at the church from outside to see at what point on the roof the tower might begin. Nothing. There's nothing there. Nothing around that might have caused the bell sound that they heard earlier. Just a goat with a copper bell thingie around its neck.
"Hey, Angus, do you remember when the bell stopped ringing? I'm sure the bell came from this direction. But there's no where for the bell here. Maybe, I'm thinking, the sound came from somewhere on the other side of this little place."
Instead of going for the tower, Xenia determines the highest point in the village and climbs up there for her look around.
Goat. hehe. Cute little guy.
Syr Friday June 15th, 2007 4:31:03 PM
Syr looks at Angus like he is out of his mind when he mentions the dragon as a learning experience, "Are you crazy? We tangled with a vampire and now you want to learn from a dragon? Learn how to be dead maybe..."
Smirking at Bin he replies, "Construction is my business. However, transportation is not. The last time that I checked we still weren't exactly sure where we are."
To Angus and the others, "Anyway, back to this 'dragon' if that is what it really is... We need more information. If that is what we are dealing with then there is no way we want to fight it on even terms." Looking around at the village he comments, "I may have a more feasiRather than asking these kind villagers to come with us, how about a little help with the recon? Nothing too hazardous. After all, they have families and this is supposed to be our test."
Angus (second illegal post) Friday June 15th, 2007 5:13:43 PM
Angus smiles at Syr "Just pondering about the Dragon. It is thought is some circles that Sorcerers sprang from Dragons and that is form where our powers originated. Do not worry, if need be I can kill one, but I want help."
DM George Friday June 15th, 2007 8:48:46 PM
Several of the group bait Attil and Avorn, trying to get their aid and prove their beliefs better than those presented by the two clerics of Ga'al.
Belkior examines the scale and does determine that it is a dragon scale most likely from a red dragon. (made arcana check)
Angus, like usual, tries to get out of the work by trying to enlist the farmers and shepperds to go fight a dragon.
Syr brings up the point that the Crimson Shields were being tested, not the villagers and the villagers have their families to protect.
Xenia climbs a tree, which is much higher than any of the buildings and take a good look around. She sees some scrawny fields, several heards of goats and sheep being tended by young men and children. So of the goats were bells around their necks and an almost constant tinkling can be heard. Women go about the daily chores that life puts in front of a these kinds of folks, gathering water, cleaning clothes and preparing food. She doesn't see any dragons.
Avorn, thinks hard for several moments his eyes staring off into space. Finally he says, "This dragon could be from around here or he could nest a 20 miles away if he is nesting at all. None of our people have been killed or our livestock taken. If he is from around here, the most likely nesting spot is those hills." Avorn points to some worn down mountains off on the skyline to the north. They are at least 15-20 miles away.
He looks at Syr and says, "You mention a test and others say, Domi has sent you. Are you on a quest? Maybe this is your quest. To find this dragon and slay it protecting the village of Stone Gap. Still I am willing to help when you find the dragon but until you do, my God has commanded me to build his church. If the dragon shows up here, I will do my best to defend the village from it."
John also looks uncomfortable at Angus's question. "We are simple sheppards. We can't fight dragons with pitchfolks and sheppards crooks. If we have to, we will flee with our families but we stay until the dragon at least makes an appearance. I agree with Father Avorn. The most likely nesting spot is in those mountains. You are obviously heroes. Can you protect us from this menance. We don't have anything to pay you with but I hear the dragons sit on piles of gold. Will you help us?
Belkior Friday June 15th, 2007 9:51:50 PM
The halfling cleric shrugs when it is suggested that the dragon may be the object of their quest.
"It may very well be. Dealing with this dragon could very well be the sort of thing that Domi wanted us to do."
Belkior turns to his companions and looks from one to another. "I am willing to go an investigate, at least. You know my convictions, though, so I want to determine if we might negotiate or learn something of this beast before we engage in combat."
"Lang, you didn't bother tracking this dragon, did you? Could you estimate something of it's size and age if you could measure it's pace?"
Angus Saturday June 16th, 2007 12:46:37 PM
Angus looks at John and tilts his head on an angle "I was not asking you and your people to do more than is possible. We just needed to find out the capabilities and if anyone could stand and fight an opponent of Dragon caliber. John you should set up the evacuation plan for the village in case the dragon attacks when we are not here."
Angus looks at the clerics of Ga'al and shakes his head "A guess you have home defense by default. Just make sure the dragons does not knock or burn down you fledgling church. If we get a volunteer from the village to act as guide can you imbue them with spells to aid them and us in hunting the dragon? The guide will be under our protect and will not be put in harms way."
Angus looks around and settles on Jacob "Does anyone know this terrirory that can act as our guide. Just remember that there will be no attempts made by the guide to slay the dragon and they must listen to us without question and obey our commands in order for us to preserve their life."
Angus calls out to the Shields "Well, is Dragon hunting what Domi had in mind for us? Saving the village is also high on the agenda. Bin you may want to spread Domi's word to the village before we leave, let them know what Domi thinks of them as he seems to have placed us here for strong reasons."
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Saturday June 16th, 2007 6:37:55 PM
"Agreed, we may not want to wait until the morning, lets start gathering as many as we can for me to speak with." Bin then looks to Angus, "Angus, I would like to encourage you to listen in as well. I may answer some of those questions where you feel confused. This may take some time, but all of us together should aquire quite a crowd." "John, could please assist us in gathering what population we can?" Bin begins walking through the small town letting people know he would like to share with them some wisdom, if they have the time or inclination. During this time, Bin thinks about what he should share with the crowd. He absolutely does not want to turn the people in on themselves, divided because of petty misunderstandings between priests. So he decides to take a different course and lead the people to a place where they already exist, or did before Father Avorn and the Crimson Shields arrived. He leads them to a place outside the town a ways, where the church of Ga'al is less visible to the crowd, in hopes that shade is also near. Bin waits for all to settle and makes sure he doesn't start before everyone that is interested is in attendance. Bin decides to not use Diplomacy or any other skills he may have in this undertaking, but instead decides to speak the truth from his heart and allow Domi's wisdom to spring within him. "My dear friends. I would first like to thank you all for coming out here with me today. I know you all have chores of one kind or another to get to and I hope you find this sermon of value to you as long as you may live. Please feel free to share it with those that could not make it, if you are inspired to do so." Bin smiles and relaxes as he begins he speech. It is obvious he taught to the common folk in his early years as the confidence and compassion is evident. "You all may think I have brought you here to talk about the glory of Domi. It may surprise you that is not my reason. Now after my initial sermon, I would be happy to have another for the devoted, but what I have to say is very important. What I want to teach to each and every one of you today is about self glory." Seriousness permeates his stature as he comes to the heart of his reason for today's talk. "I worship a single god, it is true, but it is because I am devoted to the belief's and goals of Domi that I have chosen to do so. Not because I believe all of you will faun over me for doing so. I believe every priest has that same selflessness in mind when they take the path of one god. All of you, like me, have a choice. I recommend you do not take the path of one god, unless you feel compelled to do so by your own morals and beliefs." Bin lightens the mood bringing in a theme of love for those present. "All the gods have some purpose, goals and spheres of influence for you to use when you need to. If you're a business man, you may worship Floy, but if your wife or daughter grow sick, you will be praying to Alemi.. That is powerful magic you all have access to and the priests of these gods are here to prove it to you, by our presence and deeds." Bin next points out his friend Belkior, as an example of how faiths get along. "Tolerance of each other is what will make you all stronger in times of hardship, whether you choose to worship one deity or all of them. Two priests of different gods work together to help people like you in your struggle to survive. We are not in competition for your souls." Bin grows serious again as he brings an uncommon revelation to this crowd. "I am here to warn you against extremists in any religion as well. If a person comes to you and says they are a priest of Domi, or any other priest, then they say you must also worship Domi or their specific god. Be wary of this individual, because they want to take your freedom of choice and crush your spirit. To use you as they would a whisk in a bowl." His convictions comes across in a way to reinforce his words. "Do not let anybody rob you of your freedoms. From the time you are born, the gods of the wold wanted you to be free. The ability to change your mind if you decide you were wrong on a subject. That is something priceless that can not be taken from you, but you can choose to give it up. To hand it over to someone else, I pray that day never occurs. These extremists expect you to be weak. They want you submissive to their whims so that you will do as your told. I say to you, tell them no, you may not have my spirit but you do have my respect for as long as you continue to earn it. The gods of the wold love you. All of them love all of you, in ways no mortal priest can share with you, either with sermons or heart seeds. All we can do is prove to you through our words and deeds, the honesty we have within us. I want you all to remember, it is you who should judge the church and religion. When they no longer exist to serve your purpose, they intend for you to serve their purpose. I think I have covered all I have to say on this subject. I will now take thirty or so minutes to meet with those I haven't yet and answer any questions you may have before I begin a sermon on my personal relationship with Domi and what it means to me. Some may find themselves interested enough to search for their own answers in different ways."
ooc: I know it's long, but what can I say, it's role play.
Wynn d20+12=27 Saturday June 16th, 2007 8:16:36 PM
The bard searches for a quiet spot and reflects on what he has heard of dragons in the tales of others or the songs of the elders. When he has a moment he will recall that lore to Angus.
"All the songs speak to their ability to breath fire and the sulpherous fumes that fill their underground lairs. Some of the songs speak to their ability to control men's minds and their taste for elves" he recounts to the mage.
Xenia Sunday June 17th, 2007 12:46:19 PM "No dragons in sight, Angus." The message spell once again fills with Xenia's voice. "Not for miles around. If this Test is about Dragons, I think we'll have to be going to them instead of them coming to us."
Small sounds of activity drift up to the tree from below. Sounds like Bin's voice making speech with the town's folk. Most of the Tester gods are pretty creepy. Marteaus most of all, but Ga'al's a pretty fram wambly one too. Domination. There's just sump'in about that what gives the shivers.
"I'm gonna stay up here and keep watch. Night comes, or you wanna move out, I'll come down, alright?" (Same rolls as yesterday.)
Lang & Sunshine d20+16=21 Sunday June 17th, 2007 10:01:48 PM
"No, I didn't try to track it. The footprint kind of startled me and I wanted to get back to the village to let you guys know. Besides I doubt that it travels very far on the ground."
Lang looks around the village and tries to formulate defense plans.
"Do you think we were dropped here to prevent this dragon from destroying this village?"
Track 21 for size/age of dragon.
Xenia - OoC Sunday June 17th, 2007 10:45:42 PM
I think what we need here is a Knowledge Aracana roll to find out the age of the dragon. I think we're probably trying for at least a DC20.
Syr Sunday June 17th, 2007 11:28:43 PM
Replying to Avorn, "test... quest... what's the difference? We were recently led to believe we had a hard time ahead. If this is it, we could be in serious trouble. What I find hard to believe is that no one seems to have seen this dragon or it has threatened anything yet. If it is a dragon, why kill it just for leaving a foot print? If that is the case, why not kill all bears too? I say until it does wrong, the beast should live." Shrugging his shoulders, he follows the others to listen to Bin.
Role Call - ADM Scott the Southern Sunday June 17th, 2007 11:31:39 PM
Angus XXXXX Wynn XXXOX Xenia XXXXX Belkior XXXXX Syr XXXXX Lang OXXXX Bin XXXXX
DM George Monday June 18th, 2007 9:21:59 PM
Lang didn't take a good long look at the track and nothing in his background (you might want to update that by the way. Sounds like your still human in it)shows any knowledge of dragons so it is doubtful (not impossible with a natural 20) that he would be able to determin the size of the creature from the one footprint he found. He can tell you that it was big!
Bin gives a nice speech and sermon on not getting to attached to one god and givening up any freedoms to worship others. He does gather several people asking questions about Domi but they seem to be from the older family members. Avorn just smiles at Bin and puts his arm around a teenage boy who looks up at him with worship in his eyes.
He responds to Angus, "We will do our best to keep the village safe and will marshall our spells to their protection. Do you think it is wise to bring a villager into battle with a dragon? Do you want to leave them behind in the wilds? There are other threats who would leave you alone but a lone villager might be a tasty treat to snap up."
John speaks up and says, "We have never travelled over there." He points towards the hills where it is surmised the dragon lives. "No real reason to. Life is hard enough here and keeps us too busy for adventures. No, I am sorry we don't have a guide to give you. None of us know the area well enough to be of real use to you.
We will put a escape plan together but not sure how effective it would be. We have elderly and infants. Doubt we could outrun a dragon."
Both Syr and Belkior question the wisdom of trying to kill the dragon. Not sure that it is a threat to them or the communtiy. It hasn't done anything yet to the village. Of course if it does, things might be a little to late.
Bin Monday June 18th, 2007 10:48:02 PM
Bin does his best to serve the people. It is now up to them to serve themselves. He turns to the group and says, "I think we are done here for awhile. Why don't we search the area around the community to see if there are other signs? We can camp out in the wilderness and come back in the morning." In the message spell however, he tells Angus something quite different through the message spell. "I think we are being deceived by the priest of Ga'al. It is possible his god warned him of our coming and he has set out an elaborate goose chase for us to follow in the hills, while he starts implanting the seeds into the children of this village. Once that is accomplished, the village will be their's eventually. With time and divinations, we can learn more, but talking in town is dangerous. To many spy's" accomplished, the village will be their's eventually. With time and divinations, we can learn more, but talking in town is dangerous. To many spy's"
Bin/Buzz OOC Monday June 18th, 2007 10:50:46 PM
Sorry, I cut and pasted wrong areas. I hope I got the point across,
Lang & Sunshine Monday June 18th, 2007 11:02:29 PM
"Bin or Belkior, can you use one of your info gathering spells to ask your god if killing the Dragon is our test?"
"Perhaps you can also confirm that the dragon lives in the hills over there."
"Well Angus, what are our next steps?"
Angus Monday June 18th, 2007 11:27:36 PM
Angus looks from John to Avorn "Well, I glad you have a plan to evacuate as it may be your only option, especially if we are killed. Dragons have huge territories and appetites."
Angus will gather up the Shields excluding Xenia, but key her in on the message spell "As much as I loath camping, I think that is our next move. We need more information and the village or priests are not going to assist us in any way, even if it is their necks on the line, well ours first. By the way Bin, nice speech, you got me going."
Angus looks back at the village and puts on his big floppy leather hat. "Xenia do you want to meet us farther up the trail. I think we need more information. We have what appears to be a red dragon, maybe new to the area, but it is not picking on the easy prey. Lets not take a direct route to the mountains, but check out the area as we go, there may be more to the dragon that meets the eye and maybe there is some truth to what Syr and Belkior are saying about the beast as it has not bothered anyone yet. I think it is time for Bin to ask Domi some questions. Do we need to kick the priest of Ga'al in the slats or the dragon?"
Angus looks up at the far off mountains and asks the group "Anyone have a tent or food for that matter?"
Syr Tuesday June 19th, 2007 12:13:51 AM
Syr shrugs his shoulders at the mention of camping, "I have my normal dry rations but no tent." Sighing he looks at Angus, "A bit more divine direction would be nice. Otherwise, all we have is Lang with his nose to the ground and Xenia hanging out in a tree all day looking for flying dragons?"
Wynn Tuesday June 19th, 2007 7:26:41 AM
"I too do not trust these priests of Ga'al" Wynn adds quietly. "As Angus points out, the dragon may be a ruse. I am worried about the hold these priests have over the youth of this village. I am also worried, and pardon my suspicious mind Angus, but how do we know that the god that sent us here was in fact Domi and not Ga'al?"
Xenia d20+28=44 d20+18=25 d20+21=33 d20+16=23 d20+17=28 Tuesday June 19th, 2007 8:07:59 AM
It's funny how couples work. Xenia has the same thoughts as Wynn does while keeping watch way up in that tree. I mean, like, Domination. Right? That's Ga'al's thing. Domination. Well, what were they when the fire was burning at that cabin and all? Dominated. Right? And then the second time too. On the thrones. What's Domi got to be afraid of that he's gotta freeze everyone like that? You'd think he'd be a more Trust-Me-And-Stand-Back-From-The-Fire kinda Have-Faith-In-Me sorta guy.
But the real question is ... what to do about it? Probs the group could kill 'em a little bit. But if they're really doing good here, then that would be a bad thing. Right? Well, if in doubt, check it out.
The rogue drops silently from the tree and begins once again moving about the village. Somewhere here, the priests must have a house or a camp or sump'n. Once it's found, it's a simple thing to just take a little peek into their stuff.
Rolls and Actions Hide 44, Move Silently 25 Spot 33 (to find the place in which the priests live) Listen 23 (for anyone coming) Search 28 (for traps and to ransack their ... STUFF!!!)
Belkior Tuesday June 19th, 2007 9:26:35 PM
After the party moves away from the priests of Ga'al and the villagers, the halfling cleric continues the discussion about the quest.
"Well," Belkior says, "Both Bin and I were pretty sure that it was Domi who sent us on this quest. Now, I admit, if a God of Testing like Ga'al wanted to deceive us, he probably could. But there's a good chance that Bin or I could have detected any falsehood or inconsistency."
Belkior looks around at his companions to see their reactions.
"If you think back to Domi's words, he talked of a single male entity that we would be opposing. And, that entity was spreading domination, darkness and evil. And that several years ago, his power took 'a great step forward'. It's very possible that we're to somehow oppose Ga'al."
"Wynn, you keep up with gossip and current events. Was there any great power of evil that changed or took 'a great step forward'? I thought, especially after we got here, that we might be opposing Parnoth. Or maybe a Dreadlord, but it could be Ga'al."
"Why don't we go check out this dragon and get Lang (or whoever knows something about dragons), close enough to tell whether it's even a male dragon."
DM George Tuesday June 19th, 2007 11:05:17 PM
Angus starts collecting the Crimson Shields readying them to go searching for a dragon though he isn't even sure if they have camping supplies.
(ooc You have all the normal supplies, weapons, spell components and books you would normally have listed on your character sheet. So if someone has tent listed on their character sheet, they have a tent.)
Several of the Crimson Shields question who they should be attacking. Is their target the priest of Ga'al, Ga'al himself or this dragon. Could they all somehow be related? Most seem to agree that they need to get out of the town and its prying eyes before they can plan and spellcast effectively.
Xenia goes on a recon mission of her own. It isn't difficult to find the Avorn and Atil's residence. It is a one room house they share not far from the church they are building. She quickly searches the place and finds a chest. The chest has a pad lock and when Xenia looks more closely, she sees it has a rune on it. She is pretty sure that it is a glyph of warding.
Jacob comes up to Angus and tugs on his robes. "I have never been as far as your going but since it is midday, I think you will find a comfortable clearing where you can camp about 5 miles away. It has a stream and a small pond where I water the flocks occassionally. It is as far as I have ever gone and rarely go that far but when we don't get rain, the goats can normally find good grass there."
With this said, he wishes them luck and scampers away.
Angus Tuesday June 19th, 2007 11:46:42 PM
Angus smiles at Jacob and offers his hand "Thank you for your help. Now be wary of your flock as it seems to be a dangerous time and also be wary of what flock you join as some do not let you leave ever." Angus will share a treat of chocolate with Jacob "Its good stuff, goes great with the wine." Angus savors the tasty morsel.
Angus looks to John "Do you have a tent or two we can borrow while we go find out if this dragon plans to burn and eat your village? Do you have any food for the cause? We can pay for it?"
Angus walks up to Lang and Syr "Can you two find this oasis that Jacob has described? I think the rest of us will follow slowly as we want our wayward friend to catch up. Shall we?" Angus points up the mountain in the direction that Jacob indicated.
Angus moves over to Bin and Belkior "Any soothing words from Domi or Alemi before we get too far?"
Syr Wednesday June 20th, 2007 12:00:21 AM
Syr smiles at Angus and claps a hand on the bugbear's back, "Without a doubt. Lang's the best, there is no tracker like him. He found some common sense for me. In fact, he could probably find a drow elf in this very village if he really tried!" He winks at Jacob with a broad grin.
Xenia Wednesday June 20th, 2007 10:59:11 AM
There's lotsa ways to break into stuff. Lots and lots and lots and lots.
There's not so many ways to break into things so that no one knows they been broke into. Xenia sucks in one side of her full lower lip and worries at it as she ponders the glyph on the padlock and what to do about it. Tackling this would be risky. Very and very. What's more, even were she able to bypass the ward, the Priesty Ga'al Guys would know the lock had been foozled first time they came back to open it up.
That's one thing few folks think of when considering glyphs. Not only they pertect your stuff, but they also tell you when you been broken into. Normal lock don't do that.
Only way to do this would be to wait here until one of the Ga'al Brothers came in and see if they got a password on it. Could be done. But it would take time. Meanwhile, rest of the guys would worry.
Well, it ain't going no where. Be pretty easy to slip back in here anytime.
After making a quick circuit of the place for any written correspondence, Xenia slips back out of the house and finds the rest of the Shields. She watches as the Village Person runs off before dropping herself out of shadow.
"I found out where the Ga'alies nest up," she reports. "They got a chest in there with a warded padlock."
"Not too interesting or nothing, but we could watch the village for a while," she suggests.
Bin Wednesday June 20th, 2007 2:14:20 PM
"So they offer us an oasis to rest at do they? How very nice of them. I am sure they would like to know where we are at any given time. Whoever "they" are."
"I don't have divination spells today, and we were whisked away here pretty much after the Commune, so we had no chance to get more supplies, but regardless, I do not need a tent, as long as the wind and rain are not to intense."
Lang & Sunshine Wednesday June 20th, 2007 6:34:44 PM
"I'm pretty sure I can find a large, stationary object like a pond and stream pretty easily," Lang says somewhat sarcastically.
"Come on Syr, I'll race you out there."
Cast: Longstrider
Belkior Wednesday June 20th, 2007 9:43:50 PM
The halfling cleric looks towards the distant hills with a mix of interest and worry. Belkior has never been in this part of the Wold before and he has no idea what kind of nasty blood-sucking, disease-bearing things are crawling in the undergrowth. He doesn't worry about himself, of course, but for his companions. And, since he's definitely the shortest one here, he'll surely get the best view of anything on the ground. Ever since the incident with the druid and the artifact, Belkior has been less enthusiastic about tramping through the woods. Getting burrs and other things out of his leg fure isn't a simple task, and it's not one he is anticipating with joy.
"Well, let's get going so that we have time to pick a good camping spot before dark. Maybe the clearing that Jacob mentioned, or somewhere else."
Belkior settles his haversack on his shoulders and prepares to start walking.
DM George Wednesday June 20th, 2007 11:22:35 PM
Jacob looks at Angus and says, "No I am sorry. If we go camping, we usually just sleep under the stars. We don't have any tents. Can't you wizards just wave your hands and make one?"
Xenia reports in and talks about the priests meager possessions and how they are protected.
The group starts moving towards the hills where the dragon might live and after a long afternoon's march find the clearing the Jacob mentioned. The day is wearing on but they could travel for another hour or two if they choose or camp here.
Either way, Lang hasn't seen any more dragon sign during this march. He has seen plenty of wildlife. Deer rabbit and the occasional bear track. He feels that he could provide easily for the group if he had to hunt.
Belkior does pick up several briars in his pelt that he has to pick out but all in all the walk was rather pleasurable. Will the group camp in this clearing or push on?
I need watches for the night and spell lists of all the spell users in the next post. Please make the spell lists short so they don't take up to much room. Thanks
Angus Thursday June 21st, 2007 9:40:33 AM
Angus is more than alittle disgusted at the villages lack of concern about there being a dragon around and their lack of any type of support. "I am getting the feeling that Ga'al already has his hooks in the village and he does not want to help Domi."
Angus enjoys the walk and has to refrain from pulling out his flute. "Lets stay at the pond and that will give Lang and Syr more time to check out the farthest stopping point of the village and maybe hunt or fish. Lets set our normal watch, spellusers, trackers, and love birds."
Angus has periodically cast message on the group to keep everyone in contact as Lang and Syr blazed a trail and Xenia and Wynn roamed the flanks and rear.
Angus will cast Light spell when it gets dark "I only have one spell, but it will last almost two hours. Do we need a fire?"
Xenia d20+21=24 d20+16=34 d20+28=31 d20+18=19 Thursday June 21st, 2007 10:54:42 AM
Xenia raises her palms to the sky, a stretchy cat move, slim and languid after a long day's march.
"Save your spell, Angus. I got one o' them Burning Forever torch thingies here. Should be fine if we need any light."
"If the stars are out, though ... " Here her voice gets sort of sweet and coy. "Wynn and me should be just fine."
"You know, Wynn," the rogue comments as they go about setting up camp for the night, "dunno if I'd like living out here, but it's nice for, like, a visit. Trees and grass and stuff. I could be Forest Girl for a while. It's nice." (Spot 24, Listen 34, Hide 31, Move Silently 19/Nat 1: Rolls for the Watch tonight.)
Bin (AC: 15 with buckler sleeping 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) d20+9=10 d20+8=13 d20+6=26 Thursday June 21st, 2007 1:36:40 PM
Throughout the day, Bin searches the fields as they walk, looking for rare herbs and such that can be stored. Being this far from civilization, he may find something worth a lot of money back home. Once their watch is over and they get ready to bed down for the evening, Bin takes off his armor so that he can get a good nights sleep. "I wish I had the time so I could have got myself some studded leather to sleep in. Ah well, Domi must have thought we were ready, since we didn't really have time to get prepared. Regardless, I suggest we spread out as we sleep. If we do recieve a visit from a dragon tonight, we don't want it to effect us all if it's a "Warm" welcome." Bin uses the quoatation with his fingers on the word warm.
"In regard to us wondering if that figure was Domi, of that I think their can be no doubt. Domi or Alemi would not allow another immortal to tamper with their priests future willingly. I believe Alemi allowed Domi to subjugate Belkior only because he was safe and ultimatly, what Domi has planned will benefit both him and Alemi, as well as man kind." As an after thought, he thinks to himself, {{I hope}}.
Bin thinks long into the evening, until he needs the sleep, on different subjects at hand. He didn't join the seminary to take on other priests and their gods. He only wanted to help people in ways he was not helped when he was a child. He often wonders how his path went from one of a begger and pauper to a mid level Protector.
He beds down with his hammer and buckler in hand, just in case. His thoughts trail off until his dreams take over.
Actions: Herbalism while walking in area. (Natural 1): 10 Spot on watch: 13 Listen on watch: 26(Natural 20)
Lang & Sunshine Thursday June 21st, 2007 7:20:42 PM
Lang waits with Syr and Sunshine at the pond, waiting for the rest of the group to catch up. Once they do, he helps start setting up camp. After a bit, he moves off with Syr.
"Syr, lets recon a little more before all the light is gone."
The three of them move off in the same general direction until near nightfall. Then they head back and take middle watch.
Syr d20+9=22 Thursday June 21st, 2007 9:17:24 PM
Feeling liberated now that they are away from the village and moving, the monk whistles happily. Letting Lang take the lead, he ranges far to either side of the ranger depending upon where the terrain or whim takes him. With one eye on Lang at all times, he looks for signs of anything unusual (spot 22). Moving near Lang he comments, "You know, it's really kinda nice out here. Definitely not like the hostility we felt in the jungle." With a smile and a small bounce, he calls Sunshine over and leads him off for some more exploring.
Belkior d20+6=19 d20+7=26 Thursday June 21st, 2007 10:16:23 PM
The halfling cleric sits down and plucks the burrs from his legs. While he does this, Belkior looks around at his companions to determine if any of them are suffering from the trek.
"I can watch at any time. Well, almost any. I pray to Alemi at dawn, so I wouldn't be good watching then. How about I go early, then. Unless Wynn and Xenia want to watch the stars."
Spot = 19, Listen = 26
Spells 0 (DC 16) - Detect Magic, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance, Resistance 1 (DC 17) - Bless, Bless, Magic Stone, Obscuring Mist, Sanctuary, Sanctuary (D - Protection from Evil) 2 (DC 18) - Delay Poison, Hold Person, Resist Energy, Resist Energy, Silence, Status (D - Aid) 3 (DC 19) - Dispel Magic, Invisibility Purge, Prayer, Protection from Energy (D - Magic Circle Against Evil) 4 (DC 20) - Imbue with Spell Ability, Neutralize Poison, Tongues (D - Cure Critical Wounds) 5 (DC 21) - Greater Command, Wall of Stone (D - Dispel Evil)
DM George Thursday June 21st, 2007 10:39:14 PM
The group settles in while a few scout on ahead. They don't see anything noteworthy but the trail does start getting steeper and tougher on ahead.
A cold meal is prepared since the Crimson Shields seem reluctant to start a fire but the night is nice and except for a few stinging bugs the group seems content.
Before official watches are started Sunshine raises his head from the ground and starts sniffing the air. He is looking back the direction you came from. Lang notices and sniffs the air but only smells the group smells, human and elf. Still no one is surprised when they see a figure moving towards them leading something on a rope. Soon everyone can see that a teenage girl seems to be moving towards them leading a goat.
She stops at the edge of the clearing and Bin recognizes her from Stone Gap. She seemed to listen carefully to him and she starts moving towards him now. She silently enters the camp, dropping the tether of the goat and knees in front of Bin. In a small voice she says, "I want to go with you."
Angus Thursday June 21st, 2007 11:23:32 PM
Angus is happy to hear that he can save one cantrip "You are the resourceful one are you girl." Angus smiles at Xenia.
Angus took note of Bin's plant watching at now that the group is settled he sits next to Bin "My mum is a Druid and she taught me some about the helpful herbs, weeds and roots. What exactly were you looking for and I will try to keep an eye out also. I am a bit rusty, I fear."
When Sunshine and Lang get active, Angus is a bit startled, but quickly relaxes when he sees the girl. Angus will cast his last cantrip and watch the girl as she approaches.
Angus will refresh his mage armor and then Cast detect magic.
Angus will relate to all in attendance if he notices any magic.
Angus comments to the girl "What is your name and that of your goat? I am Angus Deminoff. We deeply appreciate the offer, but it real dangerous out here. What can you offer this scouting mission and how can you defend yourself from a dragon? Do you know something that John, Jacob or Avorn do not about these mountains? I fear for yours and your goats saftey."
Angus turns to Bin after she answers "You may have to talk some sense into her."
Wynn d20+13=22 Friday June 22nd, 2007 7:48:25 AM
The bard leans back against a tree and hums a tune about forest nymphs and the perils of falling in love. He can't help but keep his eyes on Xenia as she stretches her body and takes in the woodland scents.
When the young girl from Stonegap arrives he brushes off a a large rock for her to sit on, and crouches down on his haunches to speak eye to eye. "Yes, please tell us your name and how you might assist us. We have need for brave companions. Do your parents approve of your decision to join us?"
Wynn tries to make the girl feel at ease as he questions her. [Gather Information=22]
Xenia d20+21=28 d20+16=28 d20+7=11 Friday June 22nd, 2007 9:31:18 AM
"Hi, Girl." Xenia does a quick wave with the palm of her hand, her trademark greeting. She pads to a place near the stone which Wynn clears for the girl to sit on. "I'm Xenia."
It's not hard to see that there's something special going on here between the Goat Girl and Bin. Going right to him. And looking at him like she's listening. Sounds more than just being impressed with his speechifying.
"This here's Wynn," the rogue takes a look around the clearing before folding herself to a cross-legged seat on the ground next to the rock. (Spot 28, Listen 28) "My Da sent me out into the Wold when I was just your age, you know ... " Listening to both Wynn and the girl, Xenia feeds the conversation with little bits and bats to help smooth the way. (Aid Another/Gather Information 11: Boosts Wynn's attempt from 22 to 24)
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Pre watch Friday June 22nd, 2007 2:07:49 PM
Bin is rather shocked by the approch of the girl. "What the?", escapes his mouth as she is seen standing outside the perimeter. he watches her approch and he smiles at her in a friendly manner. He hopes that she brought him a pie, oh what a delicious pie would do for his belly right now, but she dosen't offer him food, but her service. He watches the others talk with her. They are right to try to dissuade her from coming with us. he excuses himself as he goes to have some privacy. After relieving himself away from the others, he quickly casts True Seeing and searches the area around the camp, including the Ethereal Plane around them. He makes sure to look at the girl and her goat while it is active and they are withen range. before rejoining the group, he casts Discern Lies away from the others, then reapproches to ask some questions. "Why do you want to come with us?" (I want the answer to this.) "Does anyone from your village know you came out here?" (I want the answer to this) "Which did you appreciate more, the speech or the sermon?"(Not important.) "What experiences have you had that drives you to adventure?"(Not really important, but nice to know.) "Please tell me what you think of Father Avorn and his fellow priest?"(I want the answer.) "Tell me about your family please?"(Not important, but nice to know.)
Bin is only concerned about the important questions, throwing in small talk as well, so she does not think he is suspecious of her. Regardless, it would not be safe for her to return this evening, even while in the cmpany of such a ferocious animal, so they find her a bed of grass near Bin she can rest on that evening.
Actions: Cast True seeing and searches the area and looks at the girl and her goat. Cast Discern Lies and questions the girl.
From last post on this watch. Spot on watch: 13 Listen on watch: 26(Natural 20)
Belkior d20+5=12 d20+8=19 Friday June 22nd, 2007 9:23:26 PM
The halfling cleric is surprised when the girl arrives with her goat. While everyone else is busy talking to the girl, Belkior goes over to the goat.
"Hey, little ...," and Belkior ducks a bit to check, "... fellow. Did your young mistress bring you all the way out here? Well, let me take your rope, there. How about we move over here a little, out of the way."
If the girl becomes alarmed at Belkior's attention to her goat, the Paragon will explain that he's simply interested in the animal. However, Belkior is also examining the goat to determine if it is somehow subject to any magics. If the girl is really distracted, Belkior will cast a Detect Magic spell to complete this examination. Handle Animal = 12 Spellcraft = 19
Spells 0 (DC 16) - Detect Magic, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance, Resistance 1 (DC 17) - Bless, Bless, Magic Stone, Obscuring Mist, Sanctuary, Sanctuary (D - Protection from Evil) 2 (DC 18) - Delay Poison, Hold Person, Resist Energy, Resist Energy, Silence, Status (D - Aid) 3 (DC 19) - Dispel Magic, Invisibility Purge, Prayer, Protection from Energy (D - Magic Circle Against Evil) 4 (DC 20) - Imbue with Spell Ability, Neutralize Poison, Tongues (D - Cure Critical Wounds) 5 (DC 21) - Greater Command, Wall of Stone (D - Dispel Evil)
Syr d20+9=26 Saturday June 23rd, 2007 12:38:54 AM
Whispering to Lang during their watch, "Why doesn't anyone else seem to find it wierd that the little girl would walk all the way out here with a pet goat? I mean, what is she going to do, help us with a dragon? Something just doesn't seem to add up?" (Spot 26)
DM George Saturday June 23rd, 2007 8:47:05 AM
The two detect magics and the true seeing only detect a young 14 year old girl trailing a goat along with her. She seems a bit overwhelmed when the group starts to bombard her with questions and she slumps to her knees and looks up at Bin her eyes watering and says, " My name is Beth. I wanted to get away. No my parents don't know I am here. They want me to marry Samwright but he is to old for me. He is almost 20 and I don't love him. I thought if I went with you I could help cook and keep camp. My goat is milking and will warn of danger from wolves and other predators. Please don't send me back sir. Take me with you. I am not afraid. I walked for hours to catch up with you. Jacob, my brother, told me where you were camping and I knew I could catch up."
Beth starts silently sobbing. She looks at the others and adds, "Please don't make me go back. Those priests of Ga'al give me the creeps and they said they won't marry anyone who isn't heartseeded."
Bin's detect lies only detects truth from this young woman.
Angus d20+10=16 Saturday June 23rd, 2007 12:37:55 PM
Angus rolls his eyes. "Beth." Angus pats her shoulder as he attempts to find the correct words "Beth, we are attempting to track a Dragon. Do you know what a Dragon can do to you and your goat? Nothing good I can assure you. I think you need to go back to your village in the morning. When we return, we can discuss your marital situation and remember you have the free will to say no to the heartseed if you want."
Angus looks to Bin. "Beth came to see you and your wisdom. Please explain the situation to her."
Angus now takes out his flute and begins to play softly. If a 14 year girl and her goat can find then, no sense in being too quite.
perform 16
Angus takes a break from playing when Belkior happens by "So what are Alemi's thoughts on marriage. Maybe that can enlighten her if Domi can't. Beth seems to have worked out the rejection of Ga'al on her own. The rest of the village is not as wise as her, brave girl."
Xenia Saturday June 23rd, 2007 10:07:01 PM
"Angus!" The dark rogue rises from the ground like angry smoke from a fire. "I am *not* gonna stand by and see someone get heart-seated (whatever that is) and married off to some old guy she doesn't love." The girl rogue's mouth firms into a stubborn pout. "If there's a dragon here right now there'll be a dragon here when we get back. Domi's test can sit on its hands and wait."
"We got a plantation full of kids outside of Plateau City where you can stay, Beth. They grow stuff there, and raise animals too, like your goat. And if you don't like that, we also got a place in Floating City. We're not there a lot, and it would be nice to have someone watch the place for us."
"I'll walk outta here with you tomorrow," Xenia tells the girl. "If you can point the way out."
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Pre watch Sunday June 24th, 2007 12:53:00 AM
Bin begins to reply as Xenia speaks her mind on the subject.
He lets her finish as he responds Angus. "I must tell you now I'm not a hypocrite. I meant every word I said back in the village and this girl has a choice whether she wants to return to the village or not."
He looks Beth in the eyes as he continues, "You must be aware, your life is gone if this turns dangerous. None of us are powerful enough to save you from a dragon, giant or just about anything that wants to kill you. The things we fight can kill you with a brush of their hand or the slightest wound they can inflict. So you must be willing to die in order for you to live this life. It is perilous on the best of days and quite deadly on most. Regardless, we will all have more answers to our queries in the morn. Please think long and hard on your future or if you will have one."
Bin gives her something to think about as the talk continues. Bin is surprised that Beth hadn't noticed the new edition of Xenia, but then, perhaps she has and thought it rude to ask? If she gets back to the village, they will surely be aware of our "Ace" up the sleeve.
ooc: Same rolls for watch, unless new ones are needed
Lang & Sunshine Sunday June 24th, 2007 9:29:05 PM
Lang is not happy to see the girl show up in there camp. She will be a distraction if the group is attacked or will cause more delay if they have to bring her back to the village.
Lang wonders if the dragon is not there test and it is actually the Gaal clerics. Maybe she was sent out to get us to go back.
Lang sits quietly trying to think this situation through.
Wynn Monday June 25th, 2007 7:27:13 AM
Wynn shakes his head. The practice of arranged marriage is quite common across the Windbourne Hills. Some grow together with time, but for others it is a life of unfulfilled dreams. The matter is made all the worse by the Ga'alian clerics who offer choice to be heartseeded or not, whilst in the same breath offer no real choice at all.
"I think she should stay, he advises Angus. I was not much older when I started upon this trail, and I doubt you had reached the age of majority either. To send her back is to sentence her to a life of servitude."
Angus (second illegal post) Monday June 25th, 2007 11:01:13 AM
Angus looks around at everyone "If we go back so be it. Just remember that all I said is that Beth has free will to choose. If the group wants to go back tot he village and discuss the rules the Ga'alian priests are attempting to impose. I am all for that. Either way, we do not leave till morning."
Belkior Monday June 25th, 2007 10:27:22 PM
The halfling cleric listens to the story from the young human female with sympathy. From what Belkior remembers of his childhood, this might have been the way of his people. But he left that place so long ago that Belkior doesn't trust his memories.
He prances over to Beth and looks up at her.
"Alemi smiles upon marriage as a celebration of life and creation. Now, if you're going to go with us, what can you do? Or, what are you willing to learn?"
Spells 0 (DC 16) - Detect Magic, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance, Resistance 1 (DC 17) - Bless, Bless, Magic Stone, Obscuring Mist, Sanctuary, Sanctuary (D - Protection from Evil) 2 (DC 18) - Delay Poison, Hold Person, Resist Energy, Resist Energy, Silence, Status (D - Aid) 3 (DC 19) - Dispel Magic, Invisibility Purge, Prayer, Protection from Energy (D - Magic Circle Against Evil) 4 (DC 20) - Imbue with Spell Ability, Neutralize Poison, Tongues (D - Cure Critical Wounds) 5 (DC 21) - Greater Command, Wall of Stone (D - Dispel Evil)
DM George Monday June 25th, 2007 11:26:09 PM
Beth looks at the individual members of the group listening to there questions, warnings and advice. Tears leak out of her eyes as she takes everything in and finally says, "I don't know if I want to be an adventurer. I don't know if I am brave enough. I can shoot a bow. My father taught me how but I rarely do it. I just know that I don't want a husband or a heartseed. I also know that I don't want to be killed by a dragon. If I go back in the morning, will you take me with you when you leave?"
OOC Fascinating as this conversation is, I want to move things forward. Feel free to answer her tonight and then post for events in the morning.
The group finally settles in for the night, Beth seems to stay close to Bin. She seems comfortable around him. Around midnight during Lang's and Syr's watch, Sunshine bolts his head up and growls. Lang also picks up the scent and quickly following the sound of someone moving towards the camp.
A voice calls out from the darkness. "Hello the camp? Its Jacob. Is my sister Beth with you? She didn't come home this evening and I think I might have sent her your way."
Jacob stumble into camp and spots his sister. He rushes over to her and grabs her shoulders and shakes her. "Are you crazy! What were you thinking. They have seen dragon sign and your heading towards it. Mother is frantic. Father is out tracking for you. You could have been killed." Jacob crushes her to his chest in a hug and looks around at the group. "I am sorry for this. I will bring her home in the morning."
Angus Tuesday June 26th, 2007 8:47:08 AM
Angus looks up from his bedroll at Jacob, seeing it does not look to be a life threatening situation. "Could you have not come earlier? Lets talk in the morning." Angus quickly rolls over and goes back to sleep, wrapped tightly in his blanket.
Bin Tuesday June 26th, 2007 10:51:01 AM
Bin quickly stands to his feet as Jacob approches. When he starts to shake her, Bin quickly moves in to stop him. "If she is old enough to get married, she is old enough to leave of her own will. Just as her return is solely dependant on her own decision. Now if you want to remain here with us, please let us rest until the morning. Then sound decisions can be made by all."
Lang Tuesday June 26th, 2007 12:35:34 PM
Lang wonders if other town folk will be following these guys.
"She's over there."
Lang settles back into guard duty.
Belkior Tuesday June 26th, 2007 9:51:46 PM
The halfling cleric rolls over and sits up when Jacob comes into the camp. Belkior listens as the boy speaks with his sister, and then as Bin replies.
It seems like the Protector has everything in hand, but he can never be sure. Belkior watches where the boy settles to spend the night.
Belkior will wake before dawn and greet the sunrise with his prayers to Alemi. Once that is completed, he will seek out Beth if she is awake. Sometime during breakfast, Belkior should have a chance to speak with the girl.
"The decision to return or stay with us is yours. I speak only for myself, now, but I will support your right to choose for yourself."
Wynn d20+15=23 Tuesday June 26th, 2007 9:53:56 PM
"Jacob, isn't it?" Wynn greets the boy who directed them towards their campsite. "I suggest you find a comfortable spot and rest for the night. We will keep watch over you and your sister...tomorrow we'll talk." [Diplomacy=23]
The bard waves his arm at an open space near the fire and then goes back to his watch.
OOC - Matt C. Tuesday June 26th, 2007 10:25:08 PM
George called me and let me know he is having computer troubles. Nellie, he would like you to post for tonight and possibly for tomorrow.
Matt.
Waves (Co-DM Nellie) Wednesday June 27th, 2007 12:20:29 AM
Jacob looks from one face to another. "Father and Mother are very worried. They told me to bring her back. Look, it's not like she's going to get the heartseed tonight or anything." The young man looks sternly at his sister. "Beth, why are you doing this? Leave this nice people alone and come home. I'm sure this is all a big misunderstanding. Besides, you're being a big baby. The guy they got for you to marry is a good guy and Father Avorn says getting heartseeded doesn't hurt. Come on home. There's no reason to get these nice people involved in our family matters..." Jacob grabs up his sister's arm and begins to tug on it insistantly.
Listen check please.
Wynn d20+7=9 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 7:30:04 AM
The bard moves over and intercedes between the two siblings. "Jacob! Beth is under our protection here." Wynn removes the lads hand from his sister's sleeve. "You should be offering her this same protection from a marriage she doesn't want and from the Ga'alians rituals which she also does not want. You are her brother, yet you would have her sacrifice her free will...for what?"
[Listen=9]
Angus d20+3=21 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 11:54:42 AM
Angus throws off his blanket as he is clearing not going to be going to sleep for the next few minutes with all the discussions going on. Angus sits ups and comments "Enough of this. Beth you go and sleep by Bin. Jacob you go cool you heels by Lang. Lets everyone get some rest and discuss this in the morning."
Angus waggles a warning finger at Jacob "Everyone has a choice in life and they do not all have to be the same ones you make. Jacob you also have to consider the choices you have made or are comtemplating. Free will is a too much to give up in my book."
Angus looks to Syr and Lang "We need to see if we have a potential enemy among us. See if Jacob is already heartseeded, as he may not be here of his own volition."
Angus is waiting for this to calm down before continuing his beauty sleep.
Bin d20+6=12 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 12:18:46 PM
Furious at the young mans behavior, Bin casts Detect Evil and starts to search the area. "First you say you will take her home in the morning and now you are stong in your belief she should leave now. I am now suspecious of you young man, and if you do not do as your told, I will restrain you with both magic and physical bindings. Let us see your chest!" After Bin scans Jacob for evil, he scans the area around them, then he looks up and around, for those darn birdmen he was told of.
Actions: Cast Detect Evil ooc: I rolled a natural 20 for my listen before. Should I not roll until I am told, or can we use that roll? Here is another, if I need to roll again. Listen (second roll):12
Lang d20+6=14 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 6:45:31 PM
Lang moves towards Jacob and uses his size and strength to separate him from his sister.
"Why don't you just sit down there for a moment Jacob while we sort this out."
Sunshine stays by Lang's side and growls menacingly at Jacob.
Listen 14
OOC - Is Heartseeding something our characters would know from growing up (and therefore the know about Gaal and so forth)? Or is it something we just found out about?
Belkior d20+7=16 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 9:25:37 PM
The halfling cleric watches as Jacob tries to persuade his sister to return to the village. Belkior stands beside Bin and Lang when they move to intercede.
"As I said, the decision is Beth's to make. You can persuade her, but not force into this important decision."
Even though Belkior's attention is on the siblings, he does manage to notice some things. Listen = 16
Matt C. Wednesday June 27th, 2007 10:22:35 PM
OOC - Nellie please post for George again.
Xenophobia (Co-DM Nellie) Thursday June 28th, 2007 12:55:31 AM
Jacob looks livid as he recieves various tongue lashings and is then restrained by Lang. He looks angrily at Angus, the anger in his voice barely restrained. "You are outsiders here. No one asked you to come. How dare you speak to me as though you yield authority over me!" The youth struggles mightly against Lang, but the bugbear's strength is overwhelming and he eventually stops struggling and submits to Bin's inspections. Though he doesn't know exactly what to look for Bin performs what he feels is a thorough inspection and tops it off with a Detect Evil spell. After his inspection, Bin is fairly confident that the young man is not heartseed and is 100% confident that he is not evil. Turning his attention to the surrounding area, Bin does not detect any presence of evil, nor does he catch motion of anything from the sky.
Beth for her part backs away, cowering behind her protector Bin. Though she does not speak up, her body language is clear...she definately doesn't want to return with her brother.
Ears are strained, but only a few night noises are heard...the occasional hoot of an owl, chirping of crickets, etc.
OOC: You can roll a Listen whenever you wish. There may or may not be something to listen to at the time. If I ask for a Listen check, there's probably something to hear at that moment. On that note...another Listen check, please.
Regarding heartseeding, I am assuming that most of the characters know very little about heartseeding. You might have heard stories here or there, but unless you've spent time with someone from Aisildur or you've been to Aisildur, then you would have only base knowledge of the matter.
Buzz (ooc) Thursday June 28th, 2007 2:13:13 AM
ooc: very true Nellie, however, the priests were happy to show us their heartseeds back in the village, so with that, we have seen them and know what to look for. We can also assume what Father Avorn says is true, until something changes that for us.
I agree Buzz. And as I have said, from what you have seen thus far, Jacob is unheartseeded. Now the big question is...do all heartseeds look the same? That would be something you wouldn't know.---Nellie
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Pre watch Thursday June 28th, 2007 11:17:19 AM
Bin motions to Lang to let him go, "If you put your hands on Beth again, you will again be restrained." Bin relaxes as he talks with Jacob. "I don't know what's got in you young man, but we were not asked to come here, that is true. We were ordered to come here, by a force that is much greater then all mortality. Now as long as we are here, for whatever reason, we will enforce Woldian freedoms." Then Bin looks as if he has said to much. He is not one to speak out of turn for others, but he hopes they feel as he does. "We will make sure Beth, or anyone else that wants to be free of that village, can be. Now this is how things are going to work. You will stay here with us tomight and in the morning we all go back to the village after we break fast. That way your returned safely and your people can't say we did something to you while you were away. I can only imagine if you don't make it back how we will be labled the enemy. I mean to make sure we all get back there safely. Now it's up to you how comfortable you want to be tonight. You can rest with the group, or I can tie you to a tree or rock until morning, to insure you don't run off in the night. Regardless, your not leaving us until we all get back. Which do you prefer?"
Bin moves over to Belkior, concious that Beth is close to him. "Perhaps we are here to build a church to Alemi for these people? Syr knows how to do it, and these people need a choice between getting a heartseed for marriage or not. Something to think about."
He goes back to his spot and lays down, motioning to Beth to lay down also. "I can see why you want to leave. If your brother is like this, how are the others acting toward you?"
Buzz ooc Thursday June 28th, 2007 12:06:41 PM
Ah. Touche. Thus the mornings spells are so much more important.
Angus d20+3=14 Thursday June 28th, 2007 3:54:17 PM
Angus looks around exasperated "Ok people, lets not get too worked up. Jacob you have watch with Lang and Syr. Lets get back to bed and we can finish discussing this over breakfast, hopfully when cooler heads and wisdom will prevail."
Angus will attempt to lead by example and lay back down and attempt to sleep, but listen closely, just in case things heat up again.
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