Hidden Vale d20+4=23 d20+4=8 d20+4=12 d20+4=10 Tuesday May 15th, 2007 2:46:09 PM Yanosh I forgot, you need to make a Fort save DC 14. sucess removes the level. Failure means it is a permanent loss.
Neco scrambleswith relative ease 120 up the face of the steep slope and waits for the group. She finds the broad granite face very easy to navigate, but then she has practiced this sort of thing and is not wearing thick steel armor. Bohdi casts SpiderClimb on the remaining group members and the obstacle is no longer. The wolf makes her way up only needing to pause once and soon the group reaches the top.
You stand at the bottom of a short ravine some 60 feet long. At the end, a great ice arch creates an almost door like affect. On the other side, a hidden vale opens up before your eyes. Grasses and trees grow among the ice and rocks. A mountain stream cuts across the far end and the sun shines into the vale from nearly directly overhead. You are looking down upon the vale from almost 500' up. The ice wall behind you covers you completely in shadow. To the right, a fairly wide ledge of rock creates an almost natural catwalk that skirts the wall and seems to circle the entire vale, or least from as far as you can currently see. Yanosh notes with dwarven certainty that the ledge also descends towards the vale as it warps around to the right, while the left direction stays about at its current level above the vale. Occassionally the right path disappears into a rock or ice tunnel.
Yanosh d20+1=19 d20+1=19 d20+11=13 Tuesday May 15th, 2007 4:01:08 PM
Ooc Taking a -3 for gear climb checks are 19 and 19 wouldnt ya just know it have a +11 on a fort check and roll a 13 tsk tsk.
Climbing up last Yanosh survays the area. "We can take the right down into the vale. The left looks like it just over looks the vale."
DM NOTE Yanosh if you did not include the inherant +2 sacred bonus of this module, shame on you. if you did and still missed. Might I suggest to retain your level 4 status that this is a perfect example of why the Wold has hero points.
Neco Tuesday May 15th, 2007 11:09:36 PM
The girl's eyes widen at the site before her. "It...Its grass" she whispers in awe. Could it be that she is headed south. The sight reminds her of the feel of tender blades under her feet and of home. Just that little bit of comfort brightens her mood, and for once a smile without the hint of shrewdness graces her small face.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=2 d20+1=9 d20-2=0 d20+1=6 d20+3=19 Wednesday May 16th, 2007 10:24:54 AM
Yngvar moves forward with the group, in whatever order indicated to him.
He keeps a wary eye on this alien environment.
Know(nature) 2 Listen 9 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 0 Spot 6 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival 19 (+2 vs. orcs)
Clearly unnerved by this unseemly vegitation, Yngvar is determined to survive long enough to die a glorious death.
Garrett d20+11=27 Wednesday May 16th, 2007 10:44:29 AM
"This looks like a good place for an orc tribe to live. I think we should check out the high ground first and clear that. Once we are pretty sure none are above us, we can move down into the vale. there's a good chance that being up on the rim will give us a better chance to see any of them moving around down below. I would really like to take a look around down there, but the cautious side of me thinks we clear as we go."
"Any opposed? if not, why don't you take point Neco and check for traps as we go. This would be a good location for someone to set a trap and help an intruder fall off the ledge. Aiden right behind, followed by Yanosh, Yngvar, Bohdi, and I'll guard our rear. Keep your eyes and ears open for company and for movement in the vale."
Spot: 27 (for anything of interest or note down below, then for company as we go."
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday May 16th, 2007 10:49:26 AM
"Why, it's like--it's like ... a forgotten land," Bohdi breathed in amazement.
Squork pecked him hard on the top of the head.
"Oww!" the gnome wailed, rubbing his wounded skull and glowering at the bird. "What was that for?"
After a moment, Bohdi looked at Garrett. "Well, I suppose it's worthwhile for us to go have a look, eh? Maybe we should explore that ledge--" he pointed to the left, where the ledge continued high above the rift-- "While we still have the benefits of the climbing spells, eh?"
Edit by Kup: ha! Simultaneous posts! Yes, Bohdi and Garrett have the same idea.
Yanosh d20+2=5 d20+1=18 Wednesday May 16th, 2007 11:44:30 AM
(OOC Ok I did forget the +2 for this adventure so that make my prior fort save a 15 and Yanosh dosent suffer a permanent level lose.)
"I agree we need to clear what ever is up here first." Yanosh falls in linie behind Aiden and steps as softly as he can on to the left ledge.
Spot=5 listen=18
Aiden d20=16 d20=4 d20=16 d20=10 d20=6 Wednesday May 16th, 2007 12:54:26 PM
Aiden nodded as he prepares to follow Garrett's orders. Looking down at his pack sister, he hoped that there would be a way to bring her along.
"We may need to think of something for her..." as he nods towards the wolf.
"Otherwise I will work to scout..." Again, thoughts went through his head about having the raven scout above the group, at least around the presumably blind corner.
Spot: 16 + 8 = 24 Listen: 4 + 8 = 12 Knowledge (natural hazards): 16 + 8 = 24 Survival (tracks): 10 + 9 = 19 Climb (in case spell runs out in middle of climb): 6 + (I think...doing this from work) 5 = 11
DM clarification Wednesday May 16th, 2007 4:36:36 PM
DM re-reading posts there may be some confusion. The party is standing on a ledge that runs to their left and right around the vale. The party is 500' above the floor of the vale. The ledge slopes downward to the right detectable by none save Yanosh as the angle is so slight. To the left the ledge runs along the wall of the vale, still 500' above the floor. Above the group the sheer mountain wall continues up for some distance as well, about 300'. Think of a gaint cone, you are halfway down on a ledge that rings it. The group is not going to be doing any climbing unless the climber is going vertical. The vale itself is several miles across and therefore the ledge running around it is over 13 miles long. It is just past noon.
Bohdi Thursday May 17th, 2007 9:08:11 AM
"Tie a rope to the wolf," Bohdi suggested to Aiden. "Better that than have her slip from the ledge," he added quickly--he wasn't certain how the wolf would take to the idea of having a 'leash.'
Quickly, Bohdi accompanied the others onto the left ledge to survey the cone below.
Ooc: DM, Bohdi's earlier comment about exploring the ledge while the Spider Climb spells were active was made because it wasn't clear whether there was a risk of falling associated with the ledge. Spider Climb would presumably neutralize that risk.
DM the ledge ranges from 8-12 feet in width, but yes the spell certainly would. Clarification was writeen in responce to other posts mostly.
The Ledge to the Left Thursday May 17th, 2007 12:18:39 PM
The group turns to the left of the ledge like walk that seems to ring the vale below. The ledge varies in width from 8 to 12 feet. Neco takes the lead at Garrett's direction and Aiden falls into line just behind. FYI Actively searching for traps results in moving at 5' a round Neco begins picking her way along the rock, scanning for signs of trip wires and other such unpleasantry's. Aiden is directly along with the wolf on his heel, then Yanosh, Yngvar Bohdi and finally Garrett trailing 30' back from Neco. The rogue moves cautiously along as the minutes tick by. Nothing as of yet. Aiden studies the stone as well, but the rock reveals no signs of passage to him. He does note in some shallow pockets of the rock, furthest away from the sun, a thin frost layer and flakes of snow. Despite the sun, pine and wild grasses this is hardly a warm oasis. The small archway where the party first came to the ledge all but disappears as the group continues along the ledge. The Archway is about 400 yards away and it has been about 30 minutes since you emerged.
The trail, for a lack of a better term, remains high over the vale and eventually the party emerges from the shadow of the southern wall. The Spider Climb spell fades as the group steps into the sunlight more now on the western wall. Over 500' below the snow and ice form small islands, collected under trees where the sun seems to not reach with regularity. The pines are not near so thick or tall as those of the dryads wood and the grass is stringy and yellow. Dull thin bushes sprawl low to the ground looking like large patches of weeds than anything else. Away from the wind scoured tundra plants do grow in the harsh cold of Ice Vein. They, like the creatures of this part of the Wold, have adapted to life where the temperature rarely rises above the freezing mark.
The party continues around the ledge, the elevation maintaining even and Neco searching for traps. The sun can clearly be seen as the group becomes more directly alinged to the west. A sun, Aiden notes that is only a few hands above the upper rim. Up ahead, about 1200 yards, the ledge runs back into the rock, likely a cave. As any look beyond the cave to the valley wall, none can see the path emerge from the rock to continue, but teh sun light bouncing off the crystals on the face make details at such a distance difficult at best. The trail may very well end at the cave.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=15 d20+1=16 d20-2=1 d20+1=11 d20+3=13 Thursday May 17th, 2007 12:49:28 PM
Yngvar is convinced something very interesting is about to happen. He'll check for orc spore and the like.
Know (nature) 15 Listen 16 (+2 vs orcs) Search 1 Spot 11 (+2 vs orcs) Survival 13 (+2 vs orcs)
Bohdi Nackle Thursday May 17th, 2007 1:10:07 PM
"We're going to bloody well run out of light out her on this ledge, aren't we," the gnome observed bitterly. "And if it gets truly dark, we'll need light to see to move about, which will be as obvious as a beacon to anyone in the valley below, won't it. It's starting to look like that cave--if that's what it is--is probably our best bet for shelter for the night."
"And, of course, we've no bloody idea who may already be living there--or not living there, as the case may be. Bloody brilliant." He shivered and tightened his muffle.
Garrett Thursday May 17th, 2007 2:02:33 PM
"Well, in that case, I guess we should search the cave if we are going to bed down there tonight. Better than trying to navigate the ledge in the dark.
Yanosh d20+2=17 d20+1=20 d20+2=13 Thursday May 17th, 2007 4:10:38 PM
Yanosh also agrees that the cave will be the best choice for the night. He keeps a watch for anything that may harm the party be it orcs or stone traps or sliding walls.
Spot=17 listen=20 search=13 (stone cunning)
Neco d20+8=14 d20+8=13 d20+8=17 d20+8=13 d20+8=9 Friday May 18th, 2007 1:32:26 AM
Search/Detect Traps=14
"Patience! Patience!" calls the thin girl, as she siddles along the ledge, searchng for anything natural, or un-natural, that might hinder the party's progression.
The rogue is so tempted to go running down the slope...through the archway...towards the grass and the sun...
Search/Detect Traps=13, 17, 13, 9
Aiden d20=1 d20=1 d20=2 Friday May 18th, 2007 2:38:20 AM
Looking at the various reactions, Aiden nodded towards Garrett. "Change in order?" he asked, his eyes now glancing towards Yanosh, who was probably more comfortable with caves and such, and then possibly Neco.
Spot:1 +8 = 9 Listen:1 + 8 = 9 survival (tracks...seeing if there are any there):2 + 9 = 11
(Wow...it was bound to happen...Better now than combat)
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=2 d20+1=15 d20-2=2 d20+1=20 d20+3=8 Friday May 18th, 2007 10:19:17 AM
Yngvar continues his efforts to expose any dangers awaiting the party.
Know (nature) 2 Listen 15 (+2 vs orcs) Search 2 Spot 20 (+2 vs orcs) Survival 8 (+2 vs orcs)
Night's Refuge Friday May 18th, 2007 12:57:36 PM
Several note that the options upon the ledge have quickly been reduced to only one good one. Continue along the ledge to where it appears to bend back into the cliffs and make a camp for the night. Aiden suggests Yanosh take the lead so the group could benefit from his ability to see in the dark without having to light signal flares, er that is torches. About 1000 yards still need to be covered and the party moves forward. As the ledge looks to soon trail into the cliff, Yanosh takes the front position. Neco just behind him, then Aide, Yngvar, Bohdi and finally Garrett. The ledge narrows as the final 50 feet are approached, not dangerously so, but it is certainly less than 5' wide now. The mountain cliffs above have thrown the ledge and indeed all the western wall into shadow and the temperature drop is very noticeable though the magical protections prevent it from being dangerous for now. The lack of wind, Aiden believes to be the invisible line, as it were, between the two.
Yanosh's eyes pierce the gloom of the cave and notes it is more passage than cave, though it does open some. As he nears his dwarven attunement to the stone allows him to note the slight downward slope and that the air does not stir. A sure sign to the dwarf that there is no other passage nearby that would allow entrance. All seems to be natural to the dwarf, perhaps a settling of the mountain in days long ago. Given the crater-like formation now to his back, this is likely the aftermath of some great eruption of eons past. Entering the cave itself reveals that the rock near the opening to be of a different type than the rock further in. It seems to have possibly been hurled with incomprehensible velocity into the Cliffside, melting upon impact to leave the splatter patterns his darkvision clearly sees.
The rest of the group follows Yanosh in and Garrett extracts his Everburning torch to provide light for the rest of them. The cave, is indeed more of a crack in the wall of the cliffs outside. It is easily searched and explored in an hour and there is no sign of any habitation beyond rock lizards no bigger than a hand span in length and the beetles upon which they feed. Darkness is claiming the vale outside and as stated, journeying along the ledge in the black is a sure fire way to take a long fall. The group makes camp and mentally prepares to retrace their steps along the ledge tomorrow. Which on one bright note, will be faster going since the search for traps could be foregone at least back to the original ice arch. It would probably only take a few hours instead of over half the day.
Yanosh Friday May 18th, 2007 4:42:58 PM
Yanosh passes on the information of the cave. Looking at the light he mentions to them to keep the light as far back form the entrance as possible and to shield it so it doesnt give them away in the dark outside. "Orcs are stupid but not that stupid." He glances at Aiden hoping not to have offended him.
Bohdi Nackle Friday May 18th, 2007 6:35:11 PM
Night. A time to rest, to cease from daily strife, to reflect upon the accomplishments of the day's labors, to rejuvenate and to recover strength.
In short, a perfect opportunity for Bohdi to gripe and moan.
"Just what in bloody hell are we accomplishing in this--this--this little savage land we've discovered here, anyway?" he asked the others, using one hand to wave off another scolding peck from the bird on his shoulder. "Have we actually seen any signs of the orcs here? Do we have any better sense of whether the Shield of Domi is even on this bloody mountain? And how do we know that the Shield isn't in the hands of that bleedin' wight Skalti, anyway?"
The gnome stomped his feet and scowled. "Days on the tundra, climbing bloody mountains, off on some fool quest again ... What was I thinking? I've spells to study, and that application to the Star Mages Guild still sitting back in the village to be sent to Zarnan City. I should be on the way to Zarnan City, not in some gods-forsaken cliff waiting for some walking popsicles to come in the middle of the night to eat my brains .... Bloody daft, is what this all is ...."
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=16 d20+1=5 d20-2=2 d20+1=11 d20+3=19 Saturday May 19th, 2007 10:59:29 AM
Yngvar tries to keep up with Bohdi's rant thinking he's in some sort of dire psychological need.
"We're trying to find a decent way to die, of course," mirroring the bird's attempt to point out the obvious. "The orcs post road signs?" Yngvar isn't convinced the wizard's information is correct. To be sure he looks around. "I didn't know you could sense the Shield of Domi!" the youth becomes excited. "What does it feel like?" The he becomes a bit concerned. "You're on a first name basis with undead? What exactly is your relationship? Is it a friend? And how do you make wights bleed, exactly?" Yngvar thinks the gnome is pulling his leg, but lack the mental agility to be certain.
*If a wight ate Bohdi's brain,* Yngvar wonders to himself, *would it complain all the time about being a wight?*
Yngvar uses his skill (such as they are) to help set up camp and stand watch in turn.
Know (nature) 16 Listen 5 (+2 vs orcs) Search 2 Spot 11 (+2 vs orcs) Survival 19 (+2 vs orcs)
Yanosh Saturday May 19th, 2007 3:48:08 PM
Laughing Yanosh stands watching the young Barbarian try and figure out Bohdis rantings. "Come young Yngvar leave the Mage alone and do not worry of his rants. He is to High and Mighty for this place. He is city folk and is stressing over the lack of 'sophistication'. He is fine just let him rant." Hoping that Bohdis rant is not too loud for the cave and carrying out side of it.
Aiden d20=8 d20=5 Sunday May 20th, 2007 9:04:13 AM
Aiden awaited for Bohdi to go through his complaints. Then he spoke, "Bohdi...we place trust in your magic...then is it not equal to trust Garrett's?"
After all, it was Garrett's magic (speak with the gods) that gave them the clues that the Shield was there on the mountain.
He looked down to check on his packsister, "you would be surprised how smart orcs are..." he replied back to Yanosh. Aiden took no offense since he was human and had no orken blood.
Back along the Ledge Monday May 21st, 2007 10:12:37 AM
Darkness falls and the night begins. Bohdi grumbles and Yngvar hurts his head trying to logically follow the ranting gnomes course. Yanosh soon rescues him and things settle down. The dwarf also cautions on the light, near the entrance of the cave and it will be a bright beacon in the night to any in the vale below. Watches are conducted and this night is even more peaceful than before. Perhaps it is the added knowledge that any threat could only come from one direction. A fact that puts any on guard more at ease. Morning comes and another day greets you with blue skies partially painted with pink clouds and yellow streaks. The party moves back onto the ledge and moves beck the way they came at a much quicker clip. The Ice Arch is reached within 2 hours and Neco than takes up her spot at the front to more thoroughly examine the ledge as they move. The ledge remains comfortably wide at over 6', but never gets much wider. Neco picks her way along with the rest following. The vale lies some 500' straight down and a thin mist coats the floor much like what some had seen in the pine woods of Furu. After a few hours on the ledge it becomes apparent to all, it is also descending towards the vale floor. Occasionally it disappears into a rock or ice tunnel and no signs of habitation or passage is noted in any. Near Midday the ledge again bends into the rock, this time near a thin sliver of water cascading down from the middle of the cliffs some 150' above your heads. The path, now only about 70' up from the vale floor turns into the rock, where it widens a bit to a 20' cave like room. But unlike the small cave at the end of the westerly direction, this cave has an exit. This passage ends at another hidden ravine like entrance to the vale. The ledge you are on comes to an end about 20' above the ravine floor.
Just before the cave, it appears to Aiden and Yngvar, that a thin sliver of rock that snakes it way down and back along the cliff could be used to get to the floor of the vale. Though at a scant 6 inches wide, it would be difficult to say the least.
More important, than anything else, is that from this spot by the waterfall, you can see the Twin Tusk camp. The pool of the waterfall creates a stream through the vale and just over 300 feet away through the sparse low trees and brush, the fur covered tents of the Twin Tusk can be seen. From your distance the group can see... Spot DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { 2 maybe 3 fur covered tents through the trees. A small wisp of smoke and some movement of something.} Spot DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {About 7 rooftops of skins and furs, movement of perhaps 10 Medium Humanoid creatures, at least 3 coils of smoke from tended fires} Spot DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {10 different skin and fur buildings (wigwam like), 12 Medium Humanoid creatures in furs, 5 smoke coils from tended fires } Spot DC 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {same as above + 5 Small creatures, unsure if they are humanoids or not}
Yanosh d20+2=14 Monday May 21st, 2007 11:07:46 AM
Looking out over the vale Yanosh eyes the encampment. Seeing 2 maybe 3 fur covered tents and some smoke Yanosh see movement but cannot tell what it is. "Something moves in the camp below." Tapping his axe quietly against his leg Yanosh is eager to engage the Orcs but not so eager to charge them alone. A leason well learned on the tundra. Stepping closer towards Neco Yanosh become protective of her. Like he would for a family member.
Garrett d20+9=18 Monday May 21st, 2007 1:44:34 PM
Garrett moves off to the side of the opening, or ducks low to make it harder to see him from the camp.
"Make yourselves harder to see, let's not be spotted before we are ready. Looks like perhaps 7 roofs, 3 fires, and about 10 beings moving around."
"What do you all think? we're only about 20' up. We could use a rope and just slide down if we can find a place to tie it off to. If we can't, perhaps hold the rope, and let the last person to hold it have a spider climb?"
"If we go down in the daylight, there's a good chance we will be seen. It would be harder in the dark, but shouldn't be that dangerous. Perhaps even right at dusk so there is still a little light, but not a good chance of them seeing us. We could wait here til dusk, then go down and camp at the bottom until first light, and then move in on their position or at least scout it out. Any other thoughts or brilliant ideas?"
"I would like to send squork for a look, but if there aren't any birds like him around, the jig may be up. That, and they may try and shoot him down for dinner."
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Neco d20+7=24 Monday May 21st, 2007 7:22:11 PM
Neco glances upwards from her work to see what Garret is looking at looking through one eye to focus "2..3..7..10 domed, round shelters and you say 10 I say 12 people, the wind is blurring the smoke but if you look at the basses of the 3 major columns there are a total of 5." The rogue's expert eyes catch everything. To conclude her findings she says no need to put the bird in danger I'm sure he'd be an arrow pincushion if they spotted him.
--Action-- Spot [24]
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Monday May 21st, 2007 9:08:07 PM
Week of May 14-May 18 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........o...x...+...x...x Bohdi-Kup............-...x...-...x...x Garrett-Chris.........-...x...-...x...o Aiden-Paul............-...x...-...x...x Neco-James..........-...x...-...x...o Yanosh-Edd..........-...x...-...x...x Yngvar-Dru...........-...x...-...x...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --DM posted a clarification on Wednesday. Next substantive post was Thursday.
Bohdi Nackle d20+2=14 d20+7=27 d20+12=27 Monday May 21st, 2007 9:34:57 PM
Squork's eyes widened and the corvid swallowed hard at Neco's words, but Bohdi was unaware of the bird's distress. He was too intent on the orc village.
Crouching down so that he was extremely hard to see (Hide 27!), Bohdi peered where Garrett directed and nodded. "Right, I see the same," he affirmed.
Squork rustled on Bohdi's shoulder. "Little ones," the bird croaked, perhaps a bit nervously.
Bohdi turned to the raven. "What, little creatures, too?" he asked. The bird nodded. Bohdi squinted down again, then shrugged. "Can't really tell meself. S'pose it could be."
He muttered something, then traced a rune and pointed at the five others in the group (Cast: Message). "There," he whispered. "Now we'll all be able to communicate like this for about a hand's worth of time." ("Hand"=the time the sun moves a hand's breadth across the sky, or about 1 hour.)
"Listen, Garrett, the trouble with going down at dark is that the orcs can see just fine in the darkness, now, can't they? But most of us can't." He nodded at Yanosh, the exception to the rule. "I could make one person invisible for a short time. I even have this magic seal, that would make the whole group invisible for a short time, if we really needed it. And, of course--" the gnome scowled. "If I had had enough time, of course, I might have learned that spell myself, back in the village. Well, bygones, eh. At any rate, it doesn't seem as if we've been spotted yet, and I'd say that we try going down at the far end of this cave and see if we can't make our way down to the valley floor while it's still light."
Just to back up his point, Bohdi cast his magic detection spell and donned the orange spectacle runes that enabled him to see magic auras (Cast: Detect Magic). He examined the cave that they were about to pass through to ensure that there were no magical snares waiting for the unwary.
NOTE by Kup: I will be unable to post Wednesday and Thursday! I'd greatly appreciate a sub--sorry for the late notice!
Garrett Tuesday May 22nd, 2007 11:25:07 AM
"Fair enough Bohdi. We might as well explore the other end of the cave instead of just sitting here. And though the orcs can see in the dark, I assumed it was much like dwarves and elves, where it was only out to a certain distance before it became ineffective."
1 if by Land, 2 if by Sea Tuesday May 22nd, 2007 2:11:08 PM
The group collectively ducks down and observes the area below and some 100 yards distant. Neco's training in observation lets little escape her notice and even less escapes Squork. Perhpas it was the thought of being asked to fly about the area after discussions of bir dinners and pincussions, that put him on such a heightened state. Whatever the cause the results were that btween himself and Neco, they count 14 likely orcs, tending several fires and performing other day to day like chores. 5 smaller forms are flitting about in fairly quick and random fashion.
Plans are discussed about the party's next moves. Yanosh taps his axe, his dwarven blood eager to join combat with orcs.
Garrett brings all possibilities to the table for discussion. Go down now and risk being seen in the daylight. Descend at dusk making hiding easier but the descent more risky.
But where to descend. Into the vale directly, some 70' straight down. Or move to the end of the path and make the 20' drop and then back track some 150' to the vale by the ravine.
Bohdi complicates matters by reminding the group of that the enemy will be able to see much better than nearly any of the party. Bohdi feels the far end of the ledge and the 20' climb in the day and then backtracking to the Vale to be the best overall solution.
During these discussions, via Bohdi's Message spell, most everyone catches the movement of three of the smaller, now definable as humanoids, moving away from the camp to the west. The party is on the Northern face of the Vale. It definately seems like they are playing and Aiden recognizes the game as Hunter/Prey. Garrett and Bohdi too recognize the game, but their term for it is much less ominous. Hide and Seek.
Clarifiaction Notes: Before the cave. Where the party currently is scouting from. The ledge is about 70' above the Vale floor itself. Here a 6" wide 'path' ziggzaggs back and forth across the rock face that one could climb down if you wished.
The group has been through the cave to the end of the path already. At the end of the path, which is through the cave. The ledge is about 20' up from a ravine floor. The ravine leads into the Vale in one direction and out onto the face of the mountain in the other direction. After jumping to the ravine floor the group could move into the vale and take up residence near the waterfall. That would put the group about 300' away from the orcs.
Bohdi your call if you cast the Detect Magic, it reveals nothing but the presense of magic on the party.
Aiden Tuesday May 22nd, 2007 5:17:13 PM
Aiden frowns as he looks at the village.
(OOC: He's trying to see if this village is set up similar (including slaves/warlike atmosphere/etc) as Twin Tusks...or is it actually like what it appears to be, a bit more of a reclusive/peaceful village.)
"Garrett...here is a plan. I go with my pack sister. I am familiar with the ways of the Tusk, and" with a wry grin, "speak ork better than your tongue, and can hide well without spell. I can see what these orks are like, including their little onces, or if they are a danger." Taking a moment, he seemed to take a deep breath, and take a long look, "though with this valley, they may not be like the normal Tusks, unless they see many intruders."
"If anything should happen, or a message to be given, I can send my packsister back..."
(OOC: I'm not sure what I would roll in terms of seeing if these orks are acting 'normal' given they are in a hidden valley...)
Yanosh d20+2=14 d20+1=17 Tuesday May 22nd, 2007 6:39:28 PM
"Has anyone thought of a sentry being posted at the mouth of the ravine? Seams to me to be the most likly spot to put one since there were none up here." Blood boiling Yanosh thinks of the vale in a military manner. "Can anyone see another encampment, or another way in and out?" Thinking of a way to keep the advantage "We already control the hieghts."
Spot=14 Listen=17
Garrett Wednesday May 23rd, 2007 8:46:35 AM
Garrett responds to Aidens idea. "Everything except the part where you are out there by yourself with no reinforcements sounds good. I know I play things over cautious, but having anyone out there alone does not give me good feelings. Let's think this through for a few minutes, but I do like the idea of spying on them first."
Garrett stops talking for a few minutes and watches the village below, thinking to himself, and trying to be as wise as he can, and smarter than he is. After a short time, he starts trying to sort things out verbally. Talking to everyone and no one at the same time.
"Something does not feel right here. This little group of orcs took an item of power from the mighty ice witch, and she could not get it back from them? I do not like this."
Garrett continues, trying to carry his thought process through to the end.
"We need more information before we act, lest we make the wrong choice. We were told that the Ice witch is deceptive, and would use us for her own ends. We were also told to listen to what she said, but not take it as truth. Or something like that."
Then turning to everyone
"Either way, slaughtering a seemingly peaceful village where children play does not set well with me. Tuskers or not. I think we need to find a way to learn more before we act. I would like to know more of what is going on in the orc world since the death of their leader and the break up into smaller tribes. There is much we might learn from these tuskers, including the location of the shield of Domi."
"Aidens idea has merit, since it allows us the opportunity to learn more while maintaining the element of surprise. But it leaves him high and dry should he be discovered. The other two options that come to mind are 1. capture a prisoner to question. This also loses the element of surprise, and a prisoner is never very reliable for short term questioning. or 2. all of us just walk right into camp and try to have a peaceful conversation with them. If that fails, then we fight. Neither option seems that great at the moment. I am inclined to go with Aidens idea."
" I think we should go back through the cave and drop into the ravine. It seems the easiest way of getting down, and not being seen. We could camp in the ravine and post our watch at the edge of the ravine near the entrance to the vale tonight. In the morning, Aiden can go in and take a look, perhaps take Neco with him if they both would prefer. The rest of us would stay at the edge of the ravine and vale, putting us only 300' away from getting to Aiden should something go wrong. Still a good distance, but not that great."
"That's my thoughts and ideas. Glaring holes? ways to make it better? other ideas for gaining more information?
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=6 d20+1=15 d20-2=2 d20+1=2 d20+3=17 Wednesday May 23rd, 2007 10:09:41 AM
Listening quietly to everyone's input, Yngvar uses his skills to explore the cave. He is merely killing time until a plan of action is decided.
Know (nature) 6 Listen 15 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 2 Spot 2 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival 17 (+2 vs. orcs)
Yanosh d20+2=6 d20+1=13 Wednesday May 23rd, 2007 12:46:42 PM
"Good ideas all except one thing on the second one. I really dont think any will wish to talk if they see me. Fight yes talk no." Eyes gleming at the thought of getting a crack at Orcs Yanosh continues, "I think its best if we camp in the ravine but first Neco, if she will, needs to scout it out." Always watching out over the edge as he whispers.
spot=6 listen=13
DM Wednesday May 23rd, 2007 3:59:58 PM
No one can pick up Bohdi? Even if just to post some idea on what to do would be fine.
Where to Camp Wednesday May 23rd, 2007 4:49:14 PM
The group watches more and the more they observe the less Garrett is inclined to charge sword first. The Cleric cautions with wisdom and peace first. The Twin Tusk, the ferocious no holds barred tribe of raiders and murderers they had all grown up with was no more. Now existed pockets of the tribe scattered across the lands and at first glance. This particular one did not seem overly dangerous. Then there was the fact that the Ice Witch had sent them here in the first place. Her motives were her own and they were cautioned about blindly following them.
Aiden speaks of a lone scouting mission, well with his new found pack sister by his side of course, but without any other party members to learn more. Garrett, ever cautious, perhaps too so at times, does not like Aiden so far from assistance. Indeed the group would be more than 10 minutes away, which might as well be forever if Aiden truly would need them. Looking at the what can be seen through the brush and trees from over 300 feet way, Aiden sees nothing to push his inclination one way or the other. He is simply too far. There could be the fighting rings and forges or perhaps not. The ring of steel and cheers for blood are not to be heard, but perhaps there are no fights at the moment. The camp is small after all.
Yanosh speaks of the advantage of height and asks if any recall any other ways into the Vale. Besides dropping in from above, no one believes another entrance exists aside from the ravine just beyond their current location. Yanosh goes on to add that orcs and dwarves do not mix. Despite everyone's intentions his very presence could send things south quickly.
Garrett moves on to speak of camping in the ravine this night and then moving into the Vale just before first light and Aiden and Neco could scout the camp. This way the group is on the ground already. 300' is far bit the scouts could be running back towards them even as the main party hurries to assist.
Yngvar knows where his strengths lie and planning is not even a scribble at the bottom of that list. He pokes about the cave and keeps his ear to the wind. What catches his eye is that no sign of frost or snow exist in this small cave and as he examines is a bit further he finds the rockwall of the Vale side to be jus a bit warmer than the air or the rock to the main mountain side. The stones seem to almost hold the radiant heat which is being conducted towards the inner part of the cave. It would make a fine and warm hold out for a night.
The weather look of the evening though also shows to be mild, there would be no overt danger from the elements at least in the Ravine.
Bohdi Thursday May 24th, 2007 12:28:13 AM
(OOC: ok...here goes...admittedly, it is NOWHERE near the stuff Kup writes up, but what the heck...)
The small magician looked at the group and could only ruefully shake his head. "What do we know about the Shield of Domi?" he seemed to ask no one in particular, though, the way he was turned, it seemed aimed at Garrett.
"A shield is used to protect oneself, correct?" as he aimed the question at Yanosh, and then followed up with, "perhaps this artifact is having an effect on the area, as well as the orcs."
"Maybe, before we go in for the kill..." adding a muttered, 'bloody barbarians', he continued with, "why don't we discuss just what the Shield is, and be ready for whatever effects it could have on us, or the valley, after it is in our possession..."
Aiden Thursday May 24th, 2007 12:32:30 AM
Aiden kept silent as he couldn't really think of anything to add to the discussion. Garrett's alteration had merit, though, the amount of oiled metallic armor, and the lack of quiet movement from the rest of the group, including the complaints of the magician, would be enough to alert the orks.
"if they are anything like the normal Tuskans, they will have sentries set up in multiple areas." Aiden said quietly.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=17 d20-2=12 d20+1=17 d20+1=15 d20+3=21 Thursday May 24th, 2007 10:10:31 AM
Given that he doesn't eat or drink, sleeps little and talks less, Yngvar's muttering might be of note,
"This is odd," the ranger-in-training says more as a thought out loud than directed towards anybody.
One hand resting on the cave wall, Yngvar appeares to be listening to the rock with one ear pressed against the hard surface.
Know (nature) 17 Listen 17 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 12 Spot 15 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival 21 (+2 vs. orcs)
He needs all the practice he can get.
Garrett d20+8=27 Thursday May 24th, 2007 10:41:33 AM
(OOC: what do we know about the shield dan?)
Garrett will discuss the extent of his knowledge of the shield with Bohdi and others as we camp for the night. (Knowledge of religion -- 27)
"I guess we might as well stay here tonight. We can move down to the ravine in the morning and wait while Aiden scouts it out."
DM Thursday May 24th, 2007 12:50:48 PM
I am having intermitant Internet issues. I will try to post tonight after more players.
I will put in this. the Shield of Domi is NOT an actual shield. It is a small statue that was supposedly given by DOMI himself to the 8x Great grandfather of Svanhvit. It is a direct link to Domi. Remember everyone is a mighty superstitious type. cursess, magic, spirits ancient powers all of this is very real. The afterlife exists without exception all who die go before gargul to be judged. undead were found not worthy of remaining with thier god is a common conception about the free willed variety.
The Shield is a symbol of domi's precense in Ice Peak. Since it was stolen the Sne Jkempe encroached on the Ice Peak hunting lands. An eruption buried the village, Eberyon the fey king returned and awakened even more spirits, an apparent civil war is rising within the village. the factioins of the ancient ways and celsiun vs the newer generation of Domi, Food has become scarce and more villagers have died/been killed since the statue was lost then any can remember.
Yanosh Thursday May 24th, 2007 3:22:26 PM
"In my family a shield represents protection and defense, saftey and security. All of the clan warriors are trained in the use of a shield. For one must be willing to die in the defense of another." Yanosh looks proudly around at his new friends. "As I am willing to defend all of you." Yanosh continues, "Garrett speaks of peace and caution with this tribe of Orcs and I agree. If they do not have what we seek maybe they know where we can find it. But we must be watchful of decite and any trying to tell of our quest to others who wish to keep it."
The Following Day Thursday May 24th, 2007 5:05:43 PM
With further discussion and perhaps on Yngvar's discovery, caution wins the day and the group makes camp within the cave. Sentries stand at either exit, one towards the ravine and the other towards the ledge. The night is clear and each sentry can see the myriad of stars above and the light reflects well off the higher walls of this small vale. On the ledge side, the orc campfire glows can be seen and near midnight the last of the lights are put out and the oragne glows fade entirely.
Morning comes and all awaken refreshed. The smell of roasting meat drifts through the trees and stirs your stomachs. The eating below certainly smells better than what any of the party have had in the past few days on the trail to arrive here. Aiden mentions that the orcs likely have multiple sentries posted and caution will need to be taken. As a collective, the party makes to the end of the trail, through the cave and are now crouched about 20' above the ravine floor. A short climb down and then the group could enter the vale. The danger now lies in the lack of cover between the entrance of the vale and where the group would be able to drop into the ravine.
Then the orcs are spotted. The enitre party has no trouble picking them out as they round the corner of the vale and into the ravine. They pair is dressed in thick furs and are carrying large packs with a great horn and long bow. each can also be seen with a long knife at thier hip but niether seems to be wearing anything resembling a melee weapon. Aiden recognizes the packs with the tell tale poles sticking out of them, as cleaning packs. The orc could hunt and then instantly set up a portbale hanging and cleaing structure to prepare the skins and cut the meat of any catch. A complex apparatus he does not have the knowledge to assemble or craft and one, the ranger notes, that the Ice Peak hunters also do not have the knowledge of. Ice Peak has to drag the entire animal or only cut portions of what they can carry. Much less efficient.
Sound carries to the spying group as well, and an odd sound it is. The orcs are laughing and telling each other jokes. The pair is about 80' away.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=1 d20-2=14 d20+1=16 d20+1=2 d20+3=18 Friday May 25th, 2007 9:04:43 AM
Pleased his discovery was of some use Yngvar continues to spy out details of the orc camp.
Know (nature) 1 Listen 16 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 14 Spot Nat 1 = 2 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival 18 (+2 vs. orcs)
Ever impressive in his ineptitude.
Yanosh--AC20--HP44/44 Friday May 25th, 2007 4:01:49 PM
"I shouldnt have down come here." The scarred Dwarf mutters quietly. Eyeing the two comeing, he quickly sees that in this land range weapons have an advantage. 'Need to buy a crossbow someday.' he thinks to himself. Gripping his axe the burned warrior waits to see if Garrett wants to take them out or try to talk.
Garrett Friday May 25th, 2007 9:13:36 PM
(clarification please DM. Are we all in the cave opening, and could relatively easily duck back inside the cave if we wished. Or did the cave opening lead to a trail which leads over the ravine, leaving us essentially exposed with little to hide behind.)
DM Clarification for Garrett Saturday May 26th, 2007 10:21:26 AM
DM group has gone down the trail to the end. The group is still on the ledge, 20' up. The cave is a good 5 minute walk behind you. The ledge is 90 degrees to the ravine. Only two people can be at the end of the trail to the ravine. Lying down is possible
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=10 d20-2=6 d20+1=12 d20+1=20 d20+3=12 Saturday May 26th, 2007 10:44:39 AM
The young ranger looks to Garrett to decide a course of action. He has his shield on his arm and his axe at the ready in his belt.
Getting killed by an orc arrow or bolt without a weapon in hand has Yngvar worried to no end. But he can't see an epic poem written about the slaugter of unready orcs.
He decides to keep his eyes and ears open a relay anything useful.
Know (nature) 10 Listen 12 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 6 Spot 20 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival 12 (+2 vs. orcs)
Yanosh Saturday May 26th, 2007 3:29:19 PM
(OoC Thought we were in the ravine)
Yanosh moves slowly back from the edge. Keeping his axe lifted so it doesnt drag and make any kind of noise.
Yanosh Saturday May 26th, 2007 3:30:47 PM
Ooc Yanosh's axe is lifted slightly. Not waving in the air like a flag.
Garrett Saturday May 26th, 2007 8:58:06 PM
Garrett thinks to himself, "Laughing and telling jokes? children playing? these are not the bloodthirsty demons we have been led to believe. This seems much like home." Garrett thinks back to his childhood days.
Once again he weighs options, hoping to come up with the best possible. "We need to speak with these people not as enemies, but as equals. We need to neither threaten, nor appear weak." He again thinks to himself.
He whispers to those around him. "This may be a terrible idea wunjo's but I could not forgive myself were I not to try. Stay low, and prepare to act should they attack."
garrett moves low to the end of the path and then stands in plain view, shield in hand, but sword sheathed. Speaking in Orc he addresses the two orcs. "Do not attack or flee. We come in peace and wish to parlay. We mean you no harm and would speak with your leader." garrett stands where he is, looking unafraid yet not offensive, waiting for a reply.
Garrett prays silently to Domi that this works, and he does not end up looking like an idiot, nor endangering his wunjo's.
"Whispering to his comrades as he awaits the answer. "It may be rash, and it may cost us a tactical advantage, but I need to know their nature so I know how to proceed. If it fails, then my apologies."
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=18 d20-2=0 d20+1=6 d20+1=10 d20+3=4 Sunday May 27th, 2007 11:20:36 AM
Yngvar is very confused. What's the wold coming to when orcs don't even know how to act like orcs.
Know (nature) 18 Listen 6 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 0 Spot 10 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival Nat 1+3=4 (+2 vs. orcs)
Take Me to Your Leader d20+7=25 d20+7=27 Sunday May 27th, 2007 11:47:17 AM
Yonosh comments again that his very presence might cause an escalation in the initial meeting. He also is coming to realize that in the wider open spaces of the Ice Vein, ranged weapons provide a tremendous advantage. He makes a note to get one.
Yngvar is a bit confused in the current scenerio, but what he does know is that being peppered by arrow fire is not the most heroic of deaths. This in spite of evidence to the contrary by future writers of certain well liked books.
Garrett finally desides that they could second guess themselves all year, but sll signs point to the fact that this faction of the former Twin Tusk is not a blood thirsty one and he stands up and hails the pair of approaching orcs.
The orcs freeze in their respective tracks, Hands fly to the bows on thier shoulder. The one on the right then grabs the others arm and grumbles something to him. Both remove thier hands from thier weapons. The response to Garrett comes in orchish from the same orc that held the others weapon hand at bay,
"We know of the meaning of peace to the Ice Peakers. News has reached us and we will not so easily fall to your pack."
The two remain where they are, about 50' distant now, thier stance cautious, hands on thier belts. For now it would appear they are willing to continue the conversation.
Aiden d20=16 d20=3 d20=18 d20=7 d20=17 Sunday May 27th, 2007 1:44:54 PM
Aiden mumbles a few curses to himself about how foolhardy Garrett was acting. Of any of them, HE should have been the one to approach them first.
He remained hidden and motionless, as was his packsister, keeping an eye out in case any sentries would arrive.
A thought did come to mind while the tension was building. Would these orks fight against them taking back the Shield Of Domi, if that is the object creating this small haven?
Aiden would if he had been placed in a similar situation.
Actually, a part of him wondered whether moving those who had backed up the former eccelesiastical leader to this new territory and build a united village of former Tusk and Ice Peak.
There was much to learn...if only they could pull it off. However, if something was to occur...Aiden would be ready to run and help Garrett.
spot: 16 + 8 = 24
listen: 3 + 8 = 11
hide: 18 + 5 =23
move silent: 7 + 5 = 12 (staying as still as possible)
knowledge (geography - he's trying to figure out if the resources (from what they've seen) is enough for some Peak villagers to move here, and if so, how many): 17 + 9 = 26
Garrett Monday May 28th, 2007 8:22:19 AM
"I don't know what news has reached you, but you were misinformed. I believe that we were have been misinformed as well. We were sent here to destroy you before you could launch an attack upon our people, and we were told this by one of your own people. I would wonder that if word reached you here, then perhaps we were told these things by the same person."
"If we wanted to do more than talk do you think I would have stood up and alerted you to our presence with words instead of arrows and magic?"
"Will your leaders speak with us?"
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yanosh Monday May 28th, 2007 5:06:29 PM
Shaking his head the Dwarf trys to think of how he can help this out instead of making it worse. To remain hidden will harm Garretts talk of truce, to stand with axe in hand is just as bad or worse. Yanosh slides his axe slowly onto his back and waits for the next move to be made.
Neco d20+6=21 Monday May 28th, 2007 11:31:14 PM
Neco is wary of the orces in the party's presence. Knowing that orcs are corrupt rather than just pure evil, she is willing to give them a chance to talk peace, still she can never be to cautious. The rogue slides a hand behind her back and draws a dagger. Keeping the weapon hidden she waits for things to go bad.
--Action-- Slight of Hand [21]
OOC:(I would like to apologise for my lack of posting. School is winding down, but that just means its getting harder. I'll try to keep up. Sorry of and problems.)
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday May 29th, 2007 8:16:19 AM
Kup ooc: I'm back! Thanks to whomever it was who posted that substitute post for me.
Bohdi watched the parlay with the orcs with interest, glad that violence had not been the course of action just yet.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=6 d20-2=2 d20+1=4 d20+1=16 d20+3=14 Tuesday May 29th, 2007 8:21:08 AM
*What's next, dainty sandwiches with the crusts cut off?* Yngvar wonders.
Know (nature) 4 Listen 6 (+2 vs. orcs) Search 2 Spot 16 (+2 vs. orcs) Survival Nat 14 (+2 vs. orcs)
Parlay d20+7=18 d20+7=18 Tuesday May 29th, 2007 1:04:20 PM
The orc who has sopoken furrows his brow at Garrett's words. It appears to be the look of confusion more than anger, Aiden notes and relays in a whisper. The group, still hidden to thier knowledge wait on the ledge as Garrett continues. Neco slides a dagger from its sheath. Yanosh returns his axe to his hanger. Yngvar, Aiden and Bohdi simply remain ready to assist if things go south.
From what Aiden has seen of the Vale and what the group suspects are the numbers of Twin Tuskers an additional 20 or so could live here. It is obvious with two leaving the Vale with Hunting supplies that not all resources are available within the Vale currently.
The orc speaks again, "The tricks and magic of the dogs of Ice Peak are many. Perhaps you reveal yourself so that your companions may approach while we are distracted." he pauses and then adds, "Perhaps not." A grunt or two seems to be exchanged between them. The silent and easily read language of the body that any tight group could develop after years of repoire. Spot DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {One sticks out three fingers and the then the other displays four} The orc speaks again, "Perhaps a show of faith and understanding." With that he unslings his bow and pulls the horn from his shoulder and hands them to his fellow. The other nods a grunt and moves back about 30'. The now unarmed orc, saved that long dagger in his belt, takes a few forward steps to about 30' away from where you stand upon the ledge. "Come Down. We will talk."
Back near the top of the small ravine, the other orc has pulled his bow and has an arrow at the ready.
The party upon a ledge, 20' above the ravine floor. To the party's left the ravine travels 80' on a slight upward grade where entrance to the vale is had. To the party's right, the ravine travels about 120' before emerging onto the rocky mountainside. The ravine varies from 10-25' feet in width. Garrett stands at the lip of the ledge. Behind him Aiden and the wolf are Squeezed and Prone. (occupying the same 5' space) Then Yanosh and Yngvar are Squeezed and Prone. (occupying the same 5' space) Then Neco and Bohdi niether prone as they are 15' back along the ledge and well out of sight from any on the Ravine floor.
Prone The character is on the ground. An attacker who is prone has a -4 penalty on melee attack rolls and cannot use a ranged weapon (except for a crossbow). A defender who is prone gains a +4 bonus to Armor Class against ranged attacks, but takes a -4 penalty to AC against melee attacks.
Standing up is a move-equivalent action that provokes an attack of opportunity.
Sqeezing While squeezed in a narrow space you take a -4 penalty on attack rolls and a -4 penalty to AC.
Penalties are cumulitive
Yanosh Tuesday May 29th, 2007 1:31:26 PM
Yanosh watches silently as the talks continue. His blood boils with desire to cut the orcs to ribbons with his axe. But caution and belif in Garrett temper his desires. "Impressive, most impressive." Yanosh breaths quietly.
Garrett turns slightly, unbuckling his sword belt, and dropping his bow and shield. For further measure, he even removes his dagger and drops it to the ground, knowing that he has many other options should it come to combat. As he drops his items he says quietly to his companions, "needless to say, if they attack, destroy them." then to Aiden, "Sorry wunjo, this likely should have been your job, but I appear to have been shortsighted. But since you are much better than me at the bow, and I can heal myself should they attack, then perhaps all is for the best."
After a second he pulls 50' of rope from his backpack and tosses one end across Aiden, Ingvar, and Yanosh so that they may hold it. "Sucks to look foolish at a time like this, but better than falling off the side." Garrett waits until they are holding the rope, and then moves down the rope, hopefully not falling in the process(climb: 13)
Once at the bottom he will walk over to the Orc waiting. "Is this enough faith for you. We have kept an open mind, for we do not believe you to be the bloodthirsty killers that we have been taught. We wish to speak openly, and in peace, Can you and your people do the same?" Garrett stands before him, and raises his empty hands out to his sides.
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Neco d20+3=21 Tuesday May 29th, 2007 10:41:14 PM
Whispering to the gnome, Neco indicates that if the orcs wish to put the group at a disadvantage by making them move down the ravine and attacking while they are prone, it would be good to get people on the ground fast. "You studied that feather falling spell right, the one you showed me before we went to fight the Sne Kjempe several months back. It might come in use soon, so be ready." She rogue scans the orcs for reactions to the hand gestures and grunts. Her mind storms with ideas of there potential meanings what could they mean?
--Action--
Sense Motive (Discern Secret Message) [21]
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday May 29th, 2007 11:35:07 PM
"I know the spell, Neco, and I have it prepared, too. But don't worry," he assured the female rogue. "I'm sure that Garrett knows what he's doing."
With a whispered incantation and a traced rune, Bohdi pointed to Garrett and then the rest of the group (cast: Message).
"You hear that, you bloody fool?" Bohdi whispered through the enchanted link. "You'd better bloody well know what you're doing."
Yngvar the not so very tall d20+1=3 Wednesday May 30th, 2007 7:30:12 AM
Without thinking (something Yngvar excels at) Yngvar stands to brace himself while holding the rope.
Spot 3
Parlay Continued Wednesday May 30th, 2007 2:13:18 PM
Garrett drops both armor and arms to the ground on the ledge. Then, with some rope anchored by Yngvar and the others, he slides down to the ravine floor. Neco and Bohdi quickly discuss using Feather Fall to descend rapidly if Garrett were to need them. Bohdi then places a Message spell, connecting them all to allow the merest whisper to be heard amongst them.
Yngvar stands as he anchors the rope and all note the orc show no sign of being surprised by his sudden appearance.
Garrett moves towards him and the orc closes with Garrett. "And I too have kept an open mind you might note. For now you treat with me though Icer. I am Roulder`Rak Hunter of the Urðr Frið. Tell the rest to come down."
The orc stands just taller than Garrett by a hand. In the thick furs, it is hard to tell to his physique but it is likely solid if he indeed is a hunter. The scrawny simply don't live to adulthood in this land. Regardless of the tribe, village or race.
Feel free to make any checks you want to aid your cause
Yanosh Wednesday May 30th, 2007 5:14:24 PM
"Not good. This is not good." Yanosh whispers. Laying prone Yanosh can not believe the new member stood. When the orc instructs Garrett to have the others come down Yanosh remains laying in hopes that 'he' was not seen. If the orc states he has seen Yanosh he will stand and go to Garretts side.
Aiden d20=9 d20=8 d20=20 Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:24:32 PM
ooc: ughs as the chaos of the end of the scholastic year is smacking him in the face this week.
Prior dm post (actually response to Garrett):
Aiden shrugs, "no apologies needed Garrett..." He didn't like the fact that Garrett actually apologized. Perhaps it was the Tuskian way he was raised, as that was usually seen as a weakness among ork and human alike from that tribe.
------
"If any of you wish to go down, I shall hold the rope even as Yanosh did for Garrett..." as Aiden addressed the others.
All the while, he tried to keep an eye out for any snipers, or duplicity of any type from the orks.
"Could this be the different group of orks that were among the walking dead?" he asked the others, hoping that either the keen eyes of the gnome or rogue (or discerning vision of the dwarf) could see the resemblance.
Spot: 9 + 8 = 17 (+2 favored enemy) = 19
Listen: 8 + 8 = 16 + 2 (favored enemy) = 18
Sense motive (ork duplicity/ambush or in general, what the heck were the orks thinking): 20 (nat!) + 3 = 23 (and not sure if the ranger favored enemy would function here..if it does, then +2 for 25)
Garrett Wednesday May 30th, 2007 10:03:37 PM
Garrett responds mentally to Bohdi "I hope I know what I'm doing also. But if I'm wrong, then it is I down here that will pay the price. You know, you remind me of my mother when you scold like so.
Garrett makes a motion toward his friends on the ledge for the benefit of the orcs.
"Well wunjo's" Garrett thinks out to his companions on the ledge through Bohdi's spell. "It is the moment of truth. Let us lay our cards on the table and see if they want to play. I for one would like to know the rules of the game, one way or the other. I believe we should give them the benefit of the doubt, for they do not act as I would expect of their race. We have come to their home, and they should be afforded to call things for the moment unless it endangers us."
"I think you should all come down, and let's deal with these two. The leader seems to be reasonable and farsighted. We have much to gain."
"But we also have much to lose should one or two of you wish to remain hidden, but I see little purpose to that other than to separate us."
"Let us step forward like the wunjo's we are, and stand before them with honor and integrity."
Garrett d20+8=28 d20+4=5 d20+2=12 Wednesday May 30th, 2007 10:06:03 PM
Spot: 28 (nat 20) Sense motive: 5
Diplomacy when speaking to the orc: 12
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Wednesday May 30th, 2007 11:16:12 PM
Week of May 21-May 25 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...x...x...x Bohdi-Kup............x...o...+...o...x Garrett-Chris.........x...x...x...x...x Aiden-Paul............o...x...x...o...x Neco-James..........x...o...o...o...x Yanosh-Edd..........x...x...x...x...x Yngvar-Dru...........o...x...x...x...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --Wednesday and Thursday were the Jewish holiday of Shavuot, and Kup was off-line. Someone (unknown!) substituted for him on Thursday. --DM added a clarification on Thursday and waited for player posts. "Friday" post came on Sunday. (Monday was Memorial Day.)
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday May 30th, 2007 11:19:04 PM
"I know your mother, Garrett," Bohdi whispered back to the cleric, undeterred. "She's a smart woman. You should listen to her more often."
Nevertheless, Bohdi did as requested and showed himself, keeping a wary eye on the orc below and relying on the others with keener eyes to keep an eye out for an ambush.
Yngvar the not so very tall Thursday May 31st, 2007 11:06:42 AM
The young ranger is willing to hold the rope to allow everyone to climb down, but he won't be able to 'climb' down himself.
"Who wants to be last?" Yngvar asks those on the ledge. "Given they know we are here, assume they have archers above us. Off this ledge we have the ability to die heroically."
Bohdi (second) Thursday May 31st, 2007 2:51:42 PM
"I'll cast a climbing spell on the last one down, Yngvar," Bohdi whispered. "It should probably be you, Aiden, or Yanosh."
More Parlay Thursday May 31st, 2007 3:43:43 PM
Yanosh simply can't shake his dwarven heritage and that includes standing in the open with armed orcs and not expecting to get shot. The dwarf remains on his stomach.
Aiden does stand to help hold the rope as any others might descend. His eyes flick about for signs of an impending ambush. Given the sheer walls of the ravine and lack of ground cover, the orcs would need to be skilled indeed. Aiden sees no such orcs, nor does he sense anything other than caution in the staunch body language of the speaking orc. Aiden notes the orc has shifted his weight to his toes and brought his shoulders slightly forward, a stance conducive to turning quickly to the opposite direction. Aiden also asks through the Message spell if any see a resemblance in the orcs before them and those walking dead from a night ago. From his own distance he is not sure.
Garrett thinks many things, but the Message spell is not Telepathy and requires him to vocalize those thoughts and thus none of his companions are any the wiser. Garrett then calls back for the group to come down and to stand as wunjo's with honor and integrity. His eyes return to the orc after saying so. Please note Message requires verbal communication and the DM could not determine what Garrett would think and what he would say and thus cut all out except the basics of the party coming down
The orc folds his arms across his chest, "Do they come down or do I return to my people?" and in that movement Garrett's keen eye catches the necklace he wears. A small piece of ivory, perhaps a tooth with a symbol etched upon it.
Yngvar is willing to hold the rope as the rest descend, but none seem to be remotely in a hurry to do so and he will be hard pressed to safely make it down were he last. He also cautions the group of archers from above as a possibility.
Bohdi offers a Spider Climb as a solution to that problem for either Aiden or Yanosh as his preferred last man down.
Aiden, Bohdi and Yngvar are standing on the ledge. Bohdi is not so much in sight given Yanosh still on the ground and with Aiden, Yngvar and the wolf all between him and the 20' drop to the ground.
Yanosh Thursday May 31st, 2007 4:49:06 PM
With a heavy sigh Yanosh stands. Fear fills him in a flash but it last only a moment as he steals himself. "I'll be the last one down. Cast your spell on me Bohdi." After the others have climbed down the rock wall using the rope. Yanosh turns around and climbs down the rocks. Walking up next to Garrett the Dwarf stands tall and grim facing the orcs. "I am here my Wunjo."
Aiden d20=10 d20=13 d20=15 Thursday May 31st, 2007 6:38:13 PM
Once the others (including the wolf) are lowered down (or spider climbed), the tall tracker makes his way down, making sure that the rope was attached to something solid for his repel down.
He continued to keep an eye out for other orks. It was too hard not to distrust...
Bohdi Nackle Thursday May 31st, 2007 10:18:31 PM
"You must like these," Bohdi commented as he handed Yanosh the little black spindly spider to swallow that accompanied the spell. A traced rune and a murmured word later, Yanosh had the climbing ability of the digested arachnid. (Cast: Spider Climb) Then Bohdi carefully lowered himself to the valley floor.
(ooc: I'm assuming that the wolf can make it down, as usual, without the benefit of magical assistance. As needed, Bohdi can send Squork back up to touch the wolf with a second Spider Climb.)
Garrett Friday June 1st, 2007 10:10:52 AM
Responding to the Orc. "They are coming, although why you would return to your village at this particular point in time does not make a lot of sense to me. We obviously mean you no harm, or we could have killed you from ambush. That necklace you wear... we have seen one like it on the way here. Unfortunately it was around the neck of the walking dead. An orc that walked, but was not alive. A Bevroden Doden."
Garrett waits for a response from the Orc, and for the rest of the party to descend.
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall d20-2=1 d20-2=0 d20+1=18 d20+1=4 d20+3=4 Friday June 1st, 2007 11:04:56 AM
Seeing what is required, Yngvar is happy not to be the last one down.
Once earthbound he begins his scanning again.
Know (nature) 1 Listen 18 (+2 vs. orc) Search 0 Spot 4 (+2 vs. orc) Survival nat 1+3 (+2 vs. orc)
These orcs that don't act like orcs have clearly befuddled his mind.
Yanosh Friday June 1st, 2007 11:31:31 AM
"Go Aiden. I have the rope and the spell from Bohdi." Turning to Bohdi, "No I do not like spiders in any form. But for the Party I will do what ever is needed."
Once standing next to Garrett Yanosh makes sure his scarf is around his face. While keepig his hands away from his axe but close enough to reach in a hurry.
Brass Tacks d20+2=18 d20+2=5 Friday June 1st, 2007 11:33:25 PM
Everyone but Neco descends the rope and moves to join Garrett. The rogue remains where she is and Yanosh tries his best to not let his prejudices affect his stance and body language. Garrett continues to talk to the orc as the others move up to his side. The rest continue thier vigilance for a sign of a trap, but all appears just as it seems. The ravine is empty save the party and the pair of orc hunters. Just before climbing down himself, Bohdi hands Yanosh a spider to eat and casts the spell on him.
"Why I would return is simple, to warn my people of your presence." the orc states plainly in his native language. The orc then casts his eye up and down Yanosh, "You keep using the example of not killing us as your proof of your peaceful intentions." the orc pauses and then smiles, not the prettiest of sights. "You have the manners of our people well human." the orc turns partially and motions for the other to close ranks and the other orc complies.
Soon enough all are standing face to face. At the mention of the necklace and the walking dead the orcs brow furrows, "Bevroren then, we thought something upon this mountain hunted us. May I see it?" Assuming the necklace is produced the orc looks at it and growls deeply, "Boe`Recker, a good hunter, and his boy then." The orc returns the amulet and looks at Garrett and then Yanosh. it seems old racial amnety goes both ways. "So speak then. Why are you here directly. I will be the judge to if you may talk with out clan leader."
Aiden has noted the posture of the orc has shifted from considering flight from the group to a more earnest desire to know what the party from ice Peak is doing here.
Garrett Sunday June 3rd, 2007 8:49:28 PM
Facing the orc. "Alright then, I shall explain. No, there is not enough time. I will sum up. A group of orcs raided our village and stole one of our children. We tracked them back across the tundra to a great crack in thye earth where we found them either dead or the walking dead. We found the child sleeping in the arms of the ice witch and demanded the child back. She told us that many orcs were going to go to war upon our village, and blood would soon run red across the ice. She also requested that in exchange for the child we seek out and destroy the clan known as the tundra walkers who live upon the mountain of Burfell. This clan betrayed her people, and will also go to war upon the village of ice peak. They possess a relic that belongs to her and she wants it back. In addition, we must find and reclaim that which is holy to our people and stolen long ago, the Shield of Domi. The Ice witch may be able to help us should we help her, although we chased her off and took the child under threat of force."
"That is where things stand. My problem is, that after observing your people, I am not so sure I believe the ice witch. So, why would she want us to destroy you? Do you have what belonged to her? why are you here? Do you know where our sacred item is? And can we all get together and speak openly without threat of violence or dishonesty? I have told you what we know first. I have climbed down and stood before you defenseless. What more do you need to prove that we wish to speak with you and your people peacefully?
Neco d20+8=26 Monday June 4th, 2007 7:57:31 AM
With a sigh Neco slips her dagger into a rear pocket, and proceeds to lower herself down the rope. At the bottom she waits for the orc to respond to Garrets bombardment of questions. Neco is not one to be patient but knowing orcs. They will probably be confused after the fourth or fifth question. Neco leans her back to the wall and waits.
--Action-- Climb [26]
Yngvar the not so very tall Monday June 4th, 2007 10:19:07 AM
Doinghisbest to not look confused, Yngvar comes across as constipated.
Bohdi Nackle Monday June 4th, 2007 12:14:17 PM
Reaching Garrett's side, Bohdi involuntarily sucked in a breath as the cleric told all about their mission to the orc.
"Certainly laying it all out there, aren't we, mate?" Bohdi whispered over the Message link. He smiled nervously at the orc and shuffled his feet, trying to grip his hands in a way that would not betray how much they were trembling.
Yanosh Monday June 4th, 2007 12:33:00 PM
Willing to stand and let Garrett handle the politics of the meeting, Yanosh knows his role here is as back up. Feeling shamed at the mention of taking the girl back by threat of force. Yanosh knows that he was the cause of that threat. They were lucky that time that the witch ran instead of fight. Here he knows that the Orcs will rather die then run.
Aiden d20=10 d20=15 d20=16 Monday June 4th, 2007 12:43:43 PM
Aiden stood there silent. He knew that with the others, there would be question as to why Garrett would explain the full mission. But, Aiden knew better.
These were orks.
Sometimes things just need to be placed out there for them to think about. Some may try to see if there were more tricks within the mission, especially given that they went after a single human (most orks would say that if the child survived and returned, it has shown its worth, otherwise just make a new child.)
He continued to watch the reactions of the speaking ork, but also those around him.
Terms and Conditions Monday June 4th, 2007 2:25:01 PM
Garrett starts laying out pretty much everything. The orc stands there and Aiden can tell he is rapidly getting lost from the amount of information. Yanosh stood close by, Bohdi trying not to fidget and Neco thinking the poor dumb orc will be lucky to remember his own name when Garrett is through as she comes up alongside the rest of the party. the orcs brow arches at the mention of the Tundra Walkers and becomes very confused a moment later when the cleric mentions the Ice Witch's people being betrayed by them.
Garrett gets to the questions and the orc seems to be able to refocus. "I do not know why the Ice Witch would want you to attack us." His eyes flick across the assemble group and then back to Garrett. "and I do not know of anything we have that she would claim as her own."
Garrett moves on to ask about why the orcs are here and if he knows of the Shield of Domi, "We are here because Ull`kr had a vision that this mountain has Grænir `Iss (Green ice.) A potent material that can be forged as steel. As to this shield you worship, I do not know about it. Sounds like Ice Peak problems and has nothing to do with us."
Garrett then pops the big question, that of the party coming into the camp and continuing peaceful conversation. The orc nods, "We can take you to Ull`kr, but it must be a defeated warriors of honor. Weapons peacebound, but otherwise unrestrained. We present you as captured prizes to Ull`kr. We will speak of your honor and will be honor bound to protect you."
Garrett Monday June 4th, 2007 8:41:58 PM
Garrett looks at Aiden first at the mention of being taken in as 'prisoners'. "Common and normal wunjo?" Garrett waits for the answer and then looks to the rest of the party.
"What say you all. It is unusual, and a bit chancy, but I see no other peaceful solution to our present situation. It is a risky endeavour with the possiblity of much information as a reward. As in every thing we have done, we are being directed on a path. Not to follow blindly down the road, but to use our hearts to lead us through each fork. What say you my wunjo's?"
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday June 5th, 2007 12:35:46 PM
"I don't like it," Bohdi said aloud, so that everyone, including the orc, could hear. "'Defeated warriors'? 'Captives'? That's not a parley, that's a problem, and not just a syntactical one."
The gnome's eyes narrowed and he spoke directly to the orc. "This is a parley of equals, not of a defeated group to a victor. Don't your war bands have truce discussions with their enemies, before the battle is concluded, if only to set terms of prisoner exchange or of surrender? Clearly you do--what about this parley, right now? Why can't the exchange with your leader be the same?"
Bohdi looked at the others. "I don't like it. I don't know much about orcs, but I know enough to know that I won't surrender my honor that easily." Bohdi glanced over the fact that he had no honor. "It's too important--to them."
He glared back at the orc defiantly, trying hard to look fearsome and not as fearful as he felt.
Yanosh Tuesday June 5th, 2007 1:35:36 PM
Stunned that he is expected to even consider being a prisoner to the Orcs. Anger boils obviously inside of him. Fists clench and unclench but yet he remains still and silent. His unspoken oath to Garrett to follow him as leader conflicts with his desire to kill the Orcs in their tracks. Looking at Garrett with an unspoken plead in his eyes. Yanosh hopes he is not made to enter the Orcs camp as a defeated Warrior. His Dwarven pride is at stake if only to himself. "We should go as equals," he softly growls.
DM Tuesday June 5th, 2007 7:06:24 PM
waiting for the others. post may happen very late or first thing
Garrett Tuesday June 5th, 2007 9:12:50 PM
Garrett seems thoughtful for a moment, not understanding why his wunjo's would object until it dawns on him that symbolism means much. He viewed it as a way for the orc to save face, with peace bonds being little hindrance. But his friends were right, we were no captives, nor should pretend to be. The orcs respect strength, and that is what woulds be shown.
Turning to the Orc, "We go as they say. Equals trying to find a way to solve a mutual problem, or we do it the only other way it can be done."
Aiden Tuesday June 5th, 2007 9:45:02 PM
"I am not sure" Aiden spoke quietly, "but they are of a group of honor...different than most of the Tusk."
Thinking a few moments more, "perhaps we can send a small group in as they present us, while some of us stay behind with their sentinels nearby..."
For Honor Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:36:45 PM
Garrett asks his fellows and gets a collective 'No way!' response. Bohdi asks the orc why should this meeting be different from any other parlay under truce. Surely the orcs had made prisoner negotaitions and such in the past. The orc blinks at the gnome and then asks Garrett in orc what the little dwarf said.
Yanosh's face flushes with anger at the thought his voice a deep growl and while the orc might not have understood the words, he certainly knew the menaing of the sound. A return growl escaping his own throat. The other orc just behind him tenses. Sense Motve DC 15Highlight to display spoiler: { He's posturing courage but is scared.}
Garrett's mind comes full circle and states the group will not sacrifice thier own honor. If the parlay is to happen, they would go as they are. Equals to the hunters, not prisoners.
Aiden suggests, with the reminder the Urðr Frið were known for honor in the Tusk, that perhaps only some of them accompany the orcs. The rest could wait here.
A few tense silent moments pass as the hunter of the Urðr Frið clan seems to be weighing his options. "You would find the other way equally unpleasant Icer." he growls. the orc, silent to this point puts a tenative hand on the larger orcs elbow. The touch seems to relax the buldging corded muscles in the speakers neck and he slowly exhales.
His eyes flick to Aiden and then to the rest of the group before settling on the wolf at Aiden's side. "The wolf can not come." he says in orc to Garrett. With that, he takes a step back from Garrett and turns, A hand clasps his partner on the neck, turning the other about and the pair start walking up the ravine and towards the Vale.
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:39:52 PM
Week of May 28-June 1 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........+...x...x...x...x Bohdi-Kup............-...x...x...x...x Garrett-Chris.........-...x...x...x...x Aiden-Paul............-...o...x...x...x Neco-James..........-...x...o...o...x Yanosh-Edd..........-...x...x...x...x Yngvar-Dru...........-...x...x...x...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --Monday was Memorial Day.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:46:58 PM
Bohdi breathed out a sigh of relief, hoping that it wasn't too loud to be heard. He arched his eyebrows at the others and gestured to the backs of the withdrawing orcs.
"Well--after you, fearless leader," he offered to Garrett, half-mockingly.
"Protection?" Squork asked from Bohdi's shoulder, but the gnome shook his head in negative. He would not risk disturbing the uneasy truce by casting spells now.
Garrett Wednesday June 6th, 2007 10:37:53 AM
Garrett looks at Aiden. "perhaps your wolf hide out in the trees. She can come if it sounds like we are doing battle."
Responding to Bohdi. "Fearless, no. Hopeful yes. If this works, we have much to gain. If it fails, then Yngvar here has his heroic death." Garrett smiles and turns to follow the orcs. "This should be interesting."
Yanosh Wednesday June 6th, 2007 3:45:02 PM
Yanosh looks the Tusker in the eyes. "I said we go as eguals," he states in Orc. Then he defers back to Garretts leadership. Yanosh quietly follows Garrett and the Ocs from the ravine. As a show of respect Yanosh loosens his shield and slings it over his back. His axe is kept straped to his back but handy to draw in a hurry. Unhindered by his shield.
OoC Axe is slung over his right shoulder. Shield is over his left. Axe can be drawn from his right shoulder by gripping the handle over his shoulder. Then dropping it into an underhanded swing if needed for combat.
Aiden Thursday June 7th, 2007 8:06:14 AM
Aiden nodded, and looked at the wolf.
With his hand motions along with the vocal commands, he then tells the wolf to stay unless attacked.
"Agreed Garrett..." he said under his breath. ~This will be most interesting...~ he thought to himself.
The Camp of Urðr Frið Thursday June 7th, 2007 11:31:38 AM
Roulder`Rak, Hunter of the Urðr Frið clan, and the as of yet unamed orc walk in front of the party by only a few feet. As the group enters the vale, the hairs upon the back of your neck stnad and the deep feeling of being watched comes over you all. Now in the sunlight, the day feels very warm, though the surrounding snow and ice tell a very different tale. Spot DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: { The other unnamed orc seemed to shudder a bit and looked up as he crossed into the sun of the vale}
The waterfall cascades down the mountain to the right, a thin sliver bounding down the cliffs of the vale. The resulting mist rolls across an area about the small collecting pool at its base and coats everything. Roulder`Rak angles away from the mists, into the trees, giving the vapors a wide berth. Coming back around to the resulting stream from the waterfall on the far side, he follws the fast moving creek through a scant section of pine. Directly now behind the party, those good with direction, know lies the ledge and the small cave they spent last night in.
Past short brush and bare moss covered rock the party comes to a full view of the camp they had spied early yesterday. 15 animal hide three sided tent like shelters are scattered over a few hundred foot area. None are too big with the largest being about 12 feet on each of its three sides. Two are open on one side and a wolf is being dressed in one and a deer in the other.
Roulder`Rak strides into the camp with a hand waving you on. It takes no time at all for the general population of the camp to fully aware of your presence. As a general shout to arms erupts, Roulder`Rak stops and puts his hand on the shoulder of his companion and slightly turns in your direction. In a hurry, 12 armed orcs come running in from different directions as some eight other adults flee from the group.
"We are not under attack!" Roulder`Rak cries out loudly in the orc tongue. He takes several steps towards the group. "They are here to speak to Ull`kr!" Cries go up for Ull`kr and several shout questions concerning Roulder`Rak's intelligence and the identity of of his father and mother are also heard. The hunter growls as an answer and his hand balls into a fist. A very broad shouldered orc can be seen making his way to towards you. A thick white polar bear fur acts as a cloak about him and the head of the creature like a hat. The great bear fangs press down his forehead and stop just above his blood red and mustard yellow eyes. His hair, oily and as black as night, hangs about his face and shoulders and no attempt to tame it seems to have ever happened in his lifetime. A Double Bladed axe is in one hand and a steel spike lined buckler is on the other. He strides eat the distance between himself and the party quickly.
Roulder`Rak calls in his direction in orc, "They wished to speak to you!" there is no reply from Ull`Kr and for all intent and purposes, he looks furious and is still striding forward, now only 50 or so feet away.
Yanosh Thursday June 7th, 2007 1:00:59 PM
Yanosh grits his teeth and trys to remain calm. Being sure to keep his hands away from his axe he trys not to look menacing.
Bohdi Nackle Thursday June 7th, 2007 6:14:54 PM
"Doesn't look too happy to have guests," Bohdi whispered nervously across the Message link. He shuffled back a few steps so that Yanosh, Aiden, and Garrett were in front of him.
Squork flapped a bit and seemed almost to be stifling a laugh at his master's show of bravery.
Neco Thursday June 7th, 2007 8:28:25 PM
Neco whispers to the group about how it seems to be with all orcs, that what they lack in intelligence they makeup for in brute ferocity. Not threatened by the large leader. She thinks about how a polar bear cloak would look strikingly beautiful with her boots.
Garrett Thursday June 7th, 2007 8:56:33 PM
Garrett whispers into the message spell "Just hold your weapons. He likely needs to make a show of force for his people. Unless he attacks, hold your weapons. If this comes to a fight, warriors circle up and face out. Bohdi in the middle. Neco move around us so as to be able to flank, but keep away from larger numbers of them. Let's let this play out."
Garrett takes a step forward and awaits the incoming orc leader.
Aiden Thursday June 7th, 2007 10:00:49 PM
Aiden, in short, felt at home, for perhaps the first time in a very LONG time. Though this was actually docile compared to his own experiences in Twin Tusks, perhaps his wunjos could finally 'see' for the first time.
"confidence wunjos...to show fear is to show weakness, but to be brash is to invite danger. Now let us be quiet or they shall become suspicious..."
Yanosh Friday June 8th, 2007 1:38:09 PM
Swallowing his ingrained hatred of Orcs Yanosh stands his ground. Whispering over the magic link to Garrett "Just say the word boss." The Dwarf sees Bohdi step back and sees it as an intelligaint move to place the mage in a protected spot.
War Chief Ull`Kr Friday June 8th, 2007 3:58:42 PM
The orc, likely Ull`Kr continues forward and comes to a stop about 5' away. Tipping the scales in excess of 300 pounds, the 6'8" orc sweeps a discerning gaze across the group including his own two men. His left arm, can now be seen to be bare with a intricate tattoo wrapping it from bicep to wrist so completely the original skin tone is totally hidden. A few cries and hoots come from some of the orcs standing about the circle around the group. Ull`Kr snorts and some sickly green and black mucus leaves his wide and multiply broken nose to land in the snowy ground.
Just to the left of Yngvar an orc growls and takes a threatening step in. Hard and fast, Roulder's fist catches him in the nose. The soft appendage explodes with blood and sends the offending orc unto his butt in the snow.
"I brought them!", Roulder shouts to the assembled crowd in orc, "They are mine".
His brow drops over his eyes as they widen under the new protective hood. Roulder's jaw is relaxed and the now bloodied fist at his side, while in a fist, is not flexing with pressure.
Aiden can tell Roulder has been through many challenges and none in the assembly frighten him. His presence and stance alone would likely cause most to change thier minds.
The orc, just bloodied gets to is feet and draws a particularly nasty dagger. Spiked barbs run down the spine of the weapon and the orcs jaw tightens along with his neck muscles. Roulder faces off against him, his own dagger remaining in its sheathe. The other growls and just before he moves Ull`Kr's baritone voice echoes through the vale.
"Enough!" the war chief says in orcish. "Roulder`Rak, you say these Icers wish to speak to me?" Ull`Kr' gaze falls to the party, "Then speak."
Garrett Sunday June 10th, 2007 9:22:13 AM
Garrett speaks loudly so that all may hear, repeating what he had already said a short distance away. "A group of orcs led by one upon a winter wolf raided our village and stole one of our children. We tracked them back across the tundra to a great crack in thye earth where we found them either dead or the walking dead. After we destroyed them, We found the child sleeping in the arms of the ice witch and demanded the child back. She told us that many orcs were going to go to war upon our village, and blood would soon run red across the ice. She also requested that in exchange for the child we seek out and destroy the clan known as the tundra walkers who live upon the mountain of Burfell. This clan betrayed her people, and will also go to war upon the village of ice peak. They possess a relic that belongs to her and she wants it back. We took the child from her without agreeing to what she asked. But we search out a sacred item taken from our village long ago by your people."
"That is where things stand. My problem is, that after observing your people, I am not so sure I believe the ice witch, and do not believe you plan to go to war with our people. So, why would she want us to destroy you, or us all to destroy each other? Do you have what belonged to her? why are you here? Do you know where our sacred item is(Garrett describes it)?"
"We entered this village under a truce in the hopes of benefitting us all."
Garrett waits for a response.
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yanosh Sunday June 10th, 2007 3:01:09 PM
Silently Yanosh watches the assembled Orcs as Garrett retells their tale. Nodding at the parts about the witch and what she said about the Orcs.
Aiden Sunday June 10th, 2007 11:29:15 PM
Aiden tried not to smile, keeping a stern (and not intimidated, which was VERY important) look. ~this is a bit more of what I expected...~ he thought to himself.
He knew that strength bespoke power among the orks. Of those assembled, he was perhaps the one most likely considered the leader among the traditional orks. But shamans, witches, and witch doctors also carried quite a bit of proverbial 'weight'...so it would NOT be a stretch, at least from what Aiden knew, for Garrett to be the leader, especially if his role as 'spiritual leader' would become known.
Right now, it was going to be interesting to see how they took to not only Yanosh being a part of the group, but the gnome (a 'weakling' to normal orken thought), and a female...
~home fair home...~ Aiden thought to himself.
Neco Monday June 11th, 2007 7:59:41 AM
The rogue moves around slowly to the side of the group as Garrett had suggested, and waits. Neco thinks to herself "If that big guy goes down, his cloak is mine."
Bohid Nackle Monday June 11th, 2007 9:39:54 AM
Bohdi wondered what the orcs would season him with, or whether they'd just gnaw on him char-broiled ... or perhaps they preferred gnome-meat raw ... al dente ....
Shove off! he scolded himself. You're in charge of your own thoughts. You're in control! Now, change your bloody thinking and show some upper lip!
Right. Show some resolve, he thought. Upper lip. That's right, stiff upper lip ... Maybe they'll keep the lips as souvenirs, like for a necklace ... That and the pointy ears ....
Yngvar the not so very tall Monday June 11th, 2007 12:23:43 PM
Yngvar stands ready for any development.
As long as it involves fighting the orcs. These orcs that don't behave like orcs are really freaking him out.
OOC: Sorry for my absence. My daughter needed unexpected hospitilization for a kidney problem.
DM We all very much understand, hope all becomes well soon if not already
Stew Snacks and Other Things Monday June 11th, 2007 5:01:15 PM
The large orc snorts slightly as Garrett mentions the destruction of the orcs, "Maybe she just wanted you destroyed and so sent you to us with these fables." he states in rough common. He listens to the rest of the questions and Bohdi can see the powerful and fierce looking orc occassionally looking over to him directly as his black tongue curls about one of the great lower tusks thrust from his lower jaw.
Aiden meets the warchiefs gaze and sees the passing of understanding flicker in Ull`Kr's eye and the warchief sweeps his gaze then towards Neco and onto Yngvar. Both seem to take the assessment well and the warchief is near impossible to read on his thoughts of them, but likely it is pretty low given Neco's ssex and Yngvar physical stature.
Part way through Garrett's question on why the orcs were here, the War chief holds up a hand to stop him. "I will speak to the men on this." His eyes shift from Aiden to Garrett and then back before he turns and starts to stride away. The other orcs begin so shift from foot to foot about the group. Roulder turns to the that originally was met by the party with him and grunts. Soon both are walking in the wake of Ull`Kr.
Aiden Highlight to display spoiler: {In the Twin Tusks you have heard this expression many times. Almost. The warchief changed one very important word. Instead of Male he said Men. Which is what orcs call humans alot, but the Twin Tusk was always mixed, orc, half orc, human and even about you there are half orcs. Add to that, two full blooded orcs are moving to follow, clearly not Men in the traditional orc sense.}
Yngvar the not so very tall Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:43:46 AM
"Now what?" Yngvar asks Garrett.
Garrett Tuesday June 12th, 2007 1:18:16 PM
"We wait. We give them every opportunity to prove that they are not normal orcs, and shouldn't be destroyed. Should they start hostilities, we will finish them."
Aiden d20=19 d20=11 d20=19 d20=3 d20=11 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 1:20:30 PM
ooc: IF the message spell is still functional, Aiden quietly says the following to pass it through:
"Garrett...Men usually means humans. I think he wishes to speak to you and I alone as we are seen as the leaders, and worthy. I would suggest that Yanosh be the leader of those left behind, if we do split to speak to the chief."
Aiden hated to hide his speech in such a manner as it COULD be misinterpreted. Added to the fact that there was a spellcaster, and things could get very difficult within moments.
His choice of Yanosh as the leader of the subgroup (Neco, Bohdi, Yngvar, Yanosh) was pragmatic. Neco was a female, and not exactly of the warrior background, nor even that of the region. She would not be respected. Bohdi was a gnome, and wasn't exactly doing well at the moment considering the situation...this fear or intimidation by the orks would very well work against him. Yngvar was an idiot, and one careless word would mean their doom.
Though Yanosh was a dwarf, an enemy of the orks, he also had a better feel for how orks traditionally operated. He was a warrior, something the orks would respect, and the scars upon his face would actually gain favor (of worthiness) among the orks. No, he would need to be the leader of the smaller pack, and a leader WOULD be needed if a situation arose (and to help keep the others in line).
(OOC: I'm in VA with the missus (who is going through training at work). I don't have my CS with me, so with the bluff/sense motive, I'm just going with the roll and ranger 'favorite enemy' adjustments)
Yanosh Tuesday June 12th, 2007 3:22:07 PM
Yanosh crosses his arms over his chest. He knows that Aiden Speaks the truth about him and Garrett being the ones that the Orc leader wishes to speak with. Being a Dwarf he knows that if he was the only one to be considered he would be dead right now. "Aiden is right about me being respected more then the others. We will wait here as you two are taken for the talks," He whisperes over the message link.
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday June 12th, 2007 4:21:13 PM Bloody brilliant, Bohdi thought bitterly. Haven't they ever heard of Divide and Snack? But for once, the gnome held his tongue and bided his time, trying desperately not to appear nervous, and failing miserably.
Divided We Stand Tuesday June 12th, 2007 7:49:55 PM
Garrett answers Yngvar, apparently this Ull`Kr needed to go talk things over with some of his people. So much for the iron fisted rule of a warchief.
Aiden heard things considerably differently and quickly catches Garrett up to speed. The Warchief's diliberate usage of Men indicated he and Garrett should alone follow, excluding Yngvar even though he too is a human male. The possible nuiances of what was about to transpire did not need the seemingly brash youth's contribution in Aiden's mind. So why did Aidens' mind trouble him. The other two orcs walked steadily behind Ull`Kr and he and Garrett just behind them.
A glance over his shoulder secured his belief that Yanosh was indeed a proper choice. The dwarf stood tall, for a dwarf, his thick muscular across folded across his barrel chest. Yanosh had looking tough and mean quite perfected. The orcs about to thier credit mostly seemed to be ignoring the smaller party. Instead of likely every warrior in the place ringed about them, only 4 sttod. One at each compass point with thier not so small arms folded across thier own chests.
In the small circle the tension and testosterone was thicker than yaks hair. Squinting, you could almost see ot rolling off the four orcs and Yanosh like steam. Five gazes in all and not enough love to melt a single snowflake combined. Fists flex and slacken and weapons seem to want to call out and bid themselves to thier owners hands. The circled area takes on a strange silence and the pit of Bohdi's stomach tightens as a hum touches the back of his mind, almost like a presense. The same one that seemed to guide him as he transcribed the spell just at the base of Burfell a couple days ago.
Yngvar feels a sensation as well, a warm comforting feeling sweeps over him. A feeling not there since he departed his path of the Ve Amoch, the holy warrior.
Neco has read many humanoids in her short lifetime. Some are hard to penetrate, Ull`Kr was a fine example of that. Some intentions are quite plain. The five beings about her now, one dwarf and four orcs, were all itching for one of the others to provide the smallest shread of a reason to draw steel and blood. The longer they were here the much more certain of an outcome that became.
Ull`Kr glances over his shoulder as he reaches a three-sided skin tent some 100' from where the others stood. His eyes narrow and then he steps inside. Roulder and the other are close behind.
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:07:06 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of June 4-June 8 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...+...x...x Bohdi-Kup............x...x...-...x...x Garrett-Chris.........x...x...-...x...x Aiden-Paul............x...x...-...x...x Neco-James..........o...o...-...x...x Yanosh-Edd..........x...x...-...x...x Yngvar-Dru...........o...o...-...-...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --Dru had a family medical emergency this week (we hope it's all worked out okay, Dru!). --DM was holding for player posts and the lag "lost" a DM post mid-week (Wednesday).
Bohdi Nackle d20=1 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:10:51 PM
"You can still whisper, wunjos," Bohdi reminded Garrett and Aiden in a whisper himself, pointedly looking at Neco in the hope that any orcs watching might think he was speaking to her. (Bluff to send hidden message, untrained, nat 1!) But his nervousness betrayed him--Bohdi was terrible at hiding the fact that he was whispering something. He groaned with the knowledge that he was attracting more unwanted attention.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20+1=21 Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:06:16 AM
"Wait," grumbles Yngvar.
Then as he becomes aware of the odd sensation affecting him, "There's some magic afoot."
He casts about looking for an orc spell-caster.
Spot: Nat 20+1=21
Garrett Wednesday June 13th, 2007 3:49:41 PM
Garrett hears Bohdi's whisper, and whispers back in kind to the group as he follows Ull`Kr. "Try not to start anything. Do not take anything, but don't start it either. let's see where this goes. If there is a problem, you'll be the first to know."
Garrett follows Ull`Kr and the others into the tent where he waits for Ull`Kr to begin.
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Aiden d20=18 d20=20 d20=6 d20=10 Wednesday June 13th, 2007 4:12:35 PM
Aiden waited for Garrett to step in (at least before Aiden), as it was only 'proper' (strange term for orken etiquette) to allow the leader to enter first. Of course, Aiden would advise Garrett to the proper protocol.
Before entering into the tent, Aiden also takes a look back at the others. Splitting the two into groups was a very neat method of eliminating the leaders and to cause chaos among those you wish to kill. In short, he wanted to make sure (as well as he could) that there was no ambush.
He did quietly say under his breath (using the spell) to Garrett, "wunjo...be prepared to make a decision. This valley could home what we seek, and in their possession."
Personally, Aiden wasn't entirely sure if it would be right for them to take it from this valley. Again, perhaps even sharing the valley with a group from Ice Peaks would blend the two tribes in a more 'favorable' fashion. Of course, the orks may not like that aspect...and it could come down to a show of combat between the fiercest warriors (a common method of the old Twin Tusks).
(OOC: going to make a knowledge roll to see whether Garrett or Ull'Kr should enter first...Trying NOT to insult the host, but also not give them cause to fight.)
Knowledge (not really sure what it would entail since he did grow up in Twin Tusks): 18 + 2 (ork) = 20
DM Ull`Kr definately first then his people, guests (those wanting something) always last. No alterior motive with Roulder the other orc or Ull`Kr. the four around the rest of the party are as obvious in what they want as the sun in a bright blue sky. 'Oh please dwarf just fidget the wrong way...'
Yanosh Wednesday June 13th, 2007 5:56:03 PM
Knowing what the Orc gaurds want, Yanosh is more then willing to give it to them. BUT Neco, Bohdi and Yngvar would more then likly not survive it. So there he stands. Arms crossed ,axe pressing against his shoulder like a lover whispering in his ear, 'draw me, use me, spill the orc blood.'
Slowly Yanosh looks 'his' little group over. whispering to them over the link. "If anything happens try and protect each other. Ill try and protect all I can. Bohdi try to cause as much damage as you can but save the fireball for any trying to rush in to help them or to help Adien and Garrett."
Yanosh looks for the bigest Orc gaurding them. Picking him to be the first he will try and take out if something happens.
Smiling Yanosh suddenly looks the largest Orc over and says in Orc "Beautiful day is it not Tusker?"
Yanosh has taken to not wraping his face anymore with his new friends. Yanosh also does not try to hide that he speaks with his friends in a whisper.
Inside Out Wednesday June 13th, 2007 8:07:42 PM
The tent is relatively plain on the inside the walls, both Garrett and Aiden note are quite tick. Perhaps 5 or more layers of furred hide. A fire smoldering in its bed provides some warmth and more furs lie on the ground. there are no furnishings of a conventional sort. Aiden spies several trophies and prizes on the walls and floor. Enemy weapons, scraps of armor and a few less savorey items. Ull`Kr sits as does Roulder and the other orc. Aiden sits followed closely by Garrett.
The warchief speaks, in common, his voice harsh and scratchy, "First know this Icer, The Witch has no people. Your kind has had little dealings with her I wager so I offer that. To why we are here, my clan has always considered Burfell a sacred place and so I lead them here." Aiden catches more to the story in the chief eye, something left unsaid. J`Kull has your precious relic. He and the Walkers run ramshod across the tundra in small packs. None are excempt from his bloodlust." His eyes flicker to Roulder's shadow and nods. The orc lifts his chin slightly and a scar lies evenly across his throat. A miracle he survived such a wound. "I have no designs upon your people Icer." He then stops talking, obviously waiting fro Garrett or even Aiden to say something at this point.
Meanwhile in Circle City, Yanosh surpresses his battle instincts and sizes the four up. One is eaily picked out over the others. His stance more sure and steady. Fully prepared but not so nervous, a verteran of more than one leathal scuffle. Yanosh whispers to the others and the other three sneer in responce, but the fourth remains cooly unattached.
Yanosh's smile is returned, "A fine day as any Dirt eater."
Yngvar speaks of some sort of magic and looks about, but there is no sign of any kind of a spellcaster about
Aiden Wednesday June 13th, 2007 10:01:52 PM
Listening to the ork chieftain's story, Aiden remained silent.
He was the 'second' in command. It was not his place to say or question. All he was supposed to do was look fierce and show that he was not a warrior not to be taken lightly.
However, Aiden did find the idea of the sacredness of Burfell interesting, as it, too, was having an effect on his wunjos as well.
Aiden hoped that Garrett would continue to speak further...It was easy to see that the orks knew things that would benefit the people of Ice Peaks, and vice versa. It was a strange, alien thought, but it could work.
And given the exhibition of the cruelty of the ork riders, perhaps the chieftain would provide information (Aiden doubted he would provide warriors or any physical aid, that would demean their OWN skills in the eyes of the chieftain) on where to find the enemy of both people.
Yngvar the not so very tall Thursday June 14th, 2007 10:38:36 AM
"Dirt eater? What does that mean?" Yngvar asks the gnome.
Bohdi Nackle Thursday June 14th, 2007 10:52:47 AM
Bohdi shuffled nervously at Yngvar's question. "I think he means dwarves, Yngvar," Bohdi replied out of the corner of his mouth, trying to keep smiling, appear casual, and keep looking at the orcs all at the same time. The result was more like an abstract painting of a gnome in pain.
Bohdi forced a chuckle. "Kind of like a term of endearment, really, you know, like, 'elk-breath,' or 'aurochs-head,' or 'Iss Wurm-bait.'" Bohdi stopped suddenly, and he frowned as he considered whether 'Iss Wurm-bait' was, perhaps, giving the orcs too many ideas.
"You know, like that," he concluded lamely, shrugging and smiling sheepishly. He slapped Yanosh on the back and choked out a laugh. "Right, 'dirt-eater'? That's our 'dirt-eater,' all right. Heh, heh ...."
Garrett Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:35:43 AM
"OK" Garrett responds. "Thanks for the news of our relic. On further notes though. Why would the ice witch send us after you? any ideas? Does she wish both our tribes to suffer? Do you know of this item of hers that she says you have? What magic keeps this place warm and alive like it is?"
"Your people do not act like normal tuskers, and you say you have no designs upon our people. What do you have designs on then? I think perhaps you would get bored living your days in peace in the Burfell.... Would you not?" The last more of a question than a statement.
"What can you tell us of what happened to your people, and why does J`Kull search the tundra for death, even among his own people as he does?"
"If Burfell has always been considered sacred to your people, why have they not lived here before now? Seems to be a rather pleasant atmosphere."
Yanosh Thursday June 14th, 2007 12:41:35 PM
"Dirt-Eater is a slur to my people." Yanosh says softly in common "Its because my people live underground. Yanosh lets the slur slide from his back knowing that the flea infested orc dosent have the manners of a mountain goat. "So Flea-Picker do anything fun latly." Yanosh returns the taunt.
Meeting of Minds Thursday June 14th, 2007 6:22:07 PM
The orc also sees the taunt for what it is and Yanosh knows he is most certainly talking to a true warrior. Were he a different race who knows. A grin splits across his face even as two other orcs growl threateningly at Yanosh 's remark. "Fun?" and here he switches to broken dwarven and his eyes focus soley on Yanosh, "No. It hunts my people. Death." He switches back to orc, "Fun, asks the stone-licker, yes we have fun, but your stomach and courage would wilt little one." the other orcs chuckle...
Ull`Kr rubs his square jaw, "The witch is her own and so are her plots. I do not know what she would hope to gain. Nor do I know of any faction of the former Tusk that lay claim to anything she would deem her own." the warchief cocks his head slightly at Garrett's next question, "No magic is here. Were you not wrapped in protections you would feel the cold as any other place in the Vein. The wind is kept out is all."
"My people are no longer Tuskers, Roulder would have told you as much. You shall not make that error again young human." His voice takes an irritated tone, but it passes. "J`Kull is a of a different mind. His thirsts for blood, for combat and the spoils that accompany it. He attacked you once he will do so again." The statement leaves little arguing room to Ull`Kr.
"As to how and where and why I lead MY poeple. That is my own, I have told you what you need. The old ways of the Twin Tusk dictated our young prove themselves by journeying here." he stops there, but both Aiden and Garrett know there is more. Aiden specifically knows that once at Burfell the young warriors truly wanting to make a name for themselves would then strike at Ice Peak. Aiden had been one of those youth at one time.
The War chief adds, "So you come here at the beck and call of the Ice Witch. What else does she command of you?"
Neco Thursday June 14th, 2007 10:51:12 PM
The rogue stands and listens to the jeering of the orcs and the reprisals of the dwarf. "Ugh children." She sighs as she rolls her eyes. "We could be spending out time better finding a warmer climate." She groans again. "This is a waste of time."
Aiden Friday June 15th, 2007 8:25:27 AM
Aiden quietly followed the conversation, noting that some of this would NEED to be stated back to the village of Ice Peaks, especially since a faction was starting to get warlike on its own there.
"What will be the name of this settlement then Ull-Kr' chieftain?" as he spoke up for the first time. Again, he was trying to avoid the danger of speaking out of turn, something that would reflect poorly on Garrett. However, since Garrett had already made an 'error' in linking Ull'Kr's village to Twin Tusks, Aiden thought that this was where the second would enter the conversation (and prevent further embarrassment 'from the ork point of view)).
Aiden did not hide his frown at the insinuation that the Witch was ordering the group about. To show any other expression, whether of neutrality or jest, would (at least in the old Twin Tusker point of view), imply that he was correct. Typically, THAT was the moment where the arguments would begin.
But this wasn't a typical situation. Best for Garrett to lead the reply...
(AFTER Garrett's questions and Ull-Kr's response, if any...)-
Aiden, again assuming the role of being one of the tactical 'leaders' of the group, asks Ull-Kr bluntly. "How many strong are the followers of J'Kull? Whom from the old generals follow him?"
It was important to see how strong this new general was, not only in terms of their own quest, but how much danger they would pose in the future for Ice Peaks (and the Vein as a whole).
Garrett Friday June 15th, 2007 10:01:17 AM
"We do not take orders from the ice witch. We do as we wish to do." Garrett responds to the insinuation, letting it mostly slide by.
Garrett nodded at Aidens questions, glad to have his wunjo here as he had obviously overlooked two very important details. He awaits the response.
Warchief Response Friday June 15th, 2007 10:24:49 AM
Sorry about the early post today, I won't be able to get back until late Sunday possibly Monday and did not want to leave everyone hanging.
The Warchief Ull`Kr gives a slight chuckle at the ruffling of Garrett's and Aiden to the insinuation they were on errands of the Ice Witch. The response was expected by Aiden. As the warchief he was allowed such moments, as guests, they were not. His face becomes more serious with Aiden's question, "We are the Urðr Frið." To the second part, the strength of J`Kull and the Tundra Walkers, the warchief pauses, obviously doing some thinking to the numbers as oppossed to whether or not to disclose the information.
"J`Kull leads many, but they do not all travel together. I do not know precisely how many but my guess? He has set his clan into 4 or 5 smaller tribes. Each tribe about two dozen warriors strong. Many of the old warlords were killed. Their seconds mostly went to forge thier own clans, but I know of at least one warlord, P`Kth and two seconds, Koo`ool and Grthk who follow J`Kull. Aiden does not recognize the seconds but does P`Kth. A wily opponent over brawn and said to have magical powers.
Bohdi Nackle Friday June 15th, 2007 11:14:51 AM
Bohdi's brow creased and he frowned as the orc spoke in dwarven to Yanosh. "What did he say to you?" Bohdi whispered. "I don't understand."
The gnome tried to maintain a smile. "Why, I'm sure this fine band of warriors have lots of fun, Yanosh," Bohdi agreed readily, eager to please. "Why, Neco, look at the fine and wonderful village they have here, heh, yes, they must be very brave and accomplished warriors to have built this, heh ...."
Yngvar the not so very tall Friday June 15th, 2007 11:16:28 AM
"How long are we going to stand around talking?" the gaunt youth asks generally.
Yanosh Friday June 15th, 2007 7:00:23 PM
Speaking in Orc to the large Orc, "I am Yanosh of the Clan Ironfist. Warrior from a long line of warriors. My Courage and stomach are hard to wilt, Elf-Ears. And death hunts us all. But a wise warrior, such as your self must be, knows that one must have allies beside him if he is to live long as a warrior."
Yanosh does not answer Bohdhi. Not to insult the Gnome but intended to not insult the Orc by whispering to someone else.
Outside the Warchief's Tent Monday June 18th, 2007 10:49:33 AM
The orc grimaces at Yanosh and gives a slight shake of his head. He snorts and replies again in dwarven, a language his fellows clearly do not understand, "No. Death hunts. It Hunts Burfell."
The other three grumble, but nod thier heads to Yanosh's comments on allies. One of them then barks, "But everyone knows Icers are traitors. We would be fools to ally with your kind." The orc that had been speaking up to this point, curls his upper lip but does not say anything. One of the other orcs squints his eyes towards Bohdi and growls deeply, his hand caracking and popping as he makes a tight fist. His tongus then makes a pass over his lips and pretruding lower tusks.
Yanosh d20-2=13 Monday June 18th, 2007 3:56:43 PM
"Brave Warrior I know not what has passed between your tribe and the Ice Peaks. I am new here and these are my friends. I do know that we are here seeking an item and not here to fight your tribe. I also know that some of your kind have attacked the villiage of Ice Peaks. I know that does not meen any from your villiage was part of the attack. We come here to speak peace." Yanosh addresses the large Orc in Dwarven. Ignores the comments of the other Orcs Yanosh keeps an eye on the one licking his tusks. Playing a gamble Yanosh switches to Orcish, "Your friend there," he indecates the tusk licker with a nod of his head, "needs to becareful. My little friend here can melt his guts in to molten slag with the motion of his finger," Yanosh bluffs.
Bluff=13
Aiden Monday June 18th, 2007 3:58:48 PM
Aiden listened, and when P'Kth's name comes to question, his gaze hardened. "J'Kull chose well with P'Kth..." he muttered.
~too many opponents for Ice Peaks to face alone...perhaps, though, an alliance with the Uror Frio. We could perhaps replace some of the leaders with a warrior that is strong enough, but seldom is the predator fed who doesn't know his prey's habits. The good is that the tribes are separate, and may not know what is happening to the other. The bad is that we still need to track J'Kull. I shall need to speak to Garrett on this...~
Aiden looked over towards Garrett, awaiting the next move.
Posting Report (ADM Kup) Tuesday June 19th, 2007 8:01:57 AM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of June 11-June 15 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...+...x...x Bohdi-Kup............x...x...x...o...x Garrett-Chris.........x...x...x...x...o Aiden-Paul............x...x...x...x...o Neco-James..........o...o...o...x...o Yanosh-Edd..........x...x...x...o...x Yngvar-Dru...........x...x...x...o...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --DM needed to post 'early' on Friday, which had the result of splitting the player posts--half before, and half after!
Bohdi Nackle Tuesday June 19th, 2007 8:05:12 AM
Bohdi's eyes went wide with fear.
"Yaaanoosh!" Bohdi exclaimed out of the corner of his mouth, his eyes fixed on the lip-smacking orc. "No need to remind our guests of their ... digestive problems!"
Garrett Tuesday June 19th, 2007 8:05:58 AM
Garrett thinks a moment upon what the chief has said, and briefly ponders a possible alliance between their tribe and the village of ice peak. No, he thinks to himself, that would never sell, and we don't have time to go back and forth playing emissaries.
"Then it looks as if our need to be here has come to an end Ull`Kr. Unless we have more to discuss, We shall go on the hunt, and leave you in peace."
Garrett waits a moment to see if Ull'Kr or Aiden has anything else to discuss.
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Aiden Tuesday June 19th, 2007 11:31:10 AM
Aiden kept quiet, and then spoke up. "We may see each other again Ull'Kr, depending on the quality of our weapons..." That last part was an orken addage that it is not their proficiency, or fate that controls their survival in battle, but that of the make of the weapon.
Rubbing his bearded chin, "though I will seek one last thing of you chieftain of the Uroc Frio. We need to hunt to fill our packs for the journey. May we hunt on your land until our provision bags are full?"
(after response) "Thank you..." as he deferred his sight as per protocol to that of a being of higher authority (at least among the orks, but minus any grovelling). "I would like for you to know that Burrfell calls to others...as it has to me, and my packsister..."
Yngvar the not so very tall Tuesday June 19th, 2007 1:30:14 PM
"You can do that?" Yngvar asks Bohdi with a hand on his stomach and wearing a worried expression.
Yanosh Tuesday June 19th, 2007 4:00:16 PM
Yanosh dosent change his expression but seems to have found a new past time in teaseing the Gnome. Yanosh waits for the orcs responce to his mention of peace.
Yanosh knows that peace between them may never happen or will be shaky at best if it does happen. He also realises that he may be the first Dwarf to walk into an Orc camp with out fighting and to leave it the same way.
Outside In d20+1=21 d20+4=24 Tuesday June 19th, 2007 10:13:25 PM
The orc turns to one of the others and in orc growls, "Watch your place, they are here as warriors." He does not comment further on bohdi's possible magical skill and lethality. The other orc growls back, but says nothing. his lip twitches and a small sneer crosses his face. One orc looks to the tree line some 40 yards away and his hand quickly moves to his weapon. He stares for a moment or two and then seems to dismiss what his eyes had shown him, his hand drifts away to his side again. The other three follow his gaze, but they too do not react more than that. "What?" one barks in orc. "Nothing." he repsponds, "A fox perhaps, nothing." The orcs turn thier concentration towards Neco, Yngvar, Yanosh and Bohdi once again.
"Peace, you speak of. Ull`Kr will know what to make of Icers speaking of Peace Dwarf." The same speaker as what started speaking to Yanosh. "I hear your words though." and he then falls silent.
Garrett finishes and Aiden makes his request. At that Roulder leans in close to his warchief and whispers, Listen DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {"Warchief, they claimed to have slain our missing hunters as walking dead. I saw the necklace. They seemed to know the dark shadow"}
The Warchief looks to Roulder and than back to Garrett and Aiden. "You may gather what food in the vale you can, though I will tell you there is little game. We hunt the grand mountain side for it." He pauses and again rubs his chin, "Roulder says you slew two of my brothers as walking dead and that he believes you know the dark shadow."
"Yes you may hunt and gather food and I will fill your packs with all you can carry. If you slay this dark shadow. For if you know this dark one than you hold advantage over it. Do this and Urðr Frið will call you allies."
Garrett Wednesday June 20th, 2007 8:26:10 AM
Garrett thinks quickly to himself, trying to see the ins and outs.
Conferring with all the others would be right out, simply because it would show him to be a weak leader, and therefore weak.
It would delay the hunt for the Shield of Domi, but there may be more information that they would share with allies.
If Skalti was involved, Garrett had a score to settle, and would be more than happy to send the cursed spirit from this world.
All in all, there doesn't seem to be too much of a downside. Other than a slight delay, and the usual chance of death which accompanies everything we do anyway.....
Garrett looks at Aiden "Any opposition to agreeing to destroy the walking dead and their cursed controller Wunjo?" Garrett says it, also using Bohdi's spell so that all may hear what is about to be agreed upon.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday June 20th, 2007 9:12:08 AM
Bohdi heard the magical relay crackle with life and nodded, as if to himself. "Yes," he said aloud, and also using the link in reply to Garrett. "Yes, I think when we leave here we will hunt the walking dead, and the one who spawns them."
He looked at Yanosh, and then at the orcs that confronted them. "It will bring honor, and triumph, to both of our villages."
Yngvar the not so very tall Wednesday June 20th, 2007 11:28:42 AM
"Honor and triumph, now you're talking!" exclaims Yngvar picturing a grusome death in his mind's eye.
Aiden d20=7 d20=6 Wednesday June 20th, 2007 3:13:49 PM
Aiden's ears barely picked up the reference to the 'dark shadow'. He tried to hide his curiousity, though the oft-blunt tracker lacked the ability (proficiency) to do so.
"It is not of the wyld, and needs to be stopped."
It was not exactly the perfect answer, especially since they had to find where the creature was, and have the means of permanently dispatching it. But, no, Aiden would have no qualms trying to face down and destroy the creature.
Of course, WHEN they stopped the creature, and if they could bring evidence back to this tribe, it would gain them (and Ice Peaks) a valuable ally.
"Where has the dark shadow been hunting the most chieftain? And has your people seen those of the other tribes taken by the dark shadow?" Aiden brought up. He was curious to see if the dark shadow specifically chose those of the tribe Uroc-Frio to the exclusion of others.
Again, he was speaking out of turn, but this was the time for knowledge and strategy, and not etiquette.
Listen: 7 + 8 = 15 Bluff: 6 + 0 = 6
Yanosh Wednesday June 20th, 2007 4:11:00 PM
Hearing Garrett over the magical link he says out loud and over the link in Orc, "Yes hunting the undead is what we will do. And we will let Ull`Kr decide the truth of our peace."
Yanosh stands facing the large Orc as if waiting for judgement.
Concluding Remarks Wednesday June 20th, 2007 4:36:25 PM
Garrett, cleverly uses the Message spell to get what is beiing discussed inside the tent to his wunjos outside under the guise of asking Aiden's opinion soley. A shrewd move Aiden knows. Anything other than a seeming confirment with his second in command would have put them in a bad light. For not growing up in the Tusk, Garrett certainly had picked up quick on how to navigate the waters.
Yanosh, Yngvar and Bohdi all sound off in the positive. The orcs about the four have mixed reactions to Yanosh's statement, but only one sends concern through any spines. The orc grunts spits to the the ground and spins on its heel walking away. The others sneer a bit at teh orcs reaction, but do not otherwise do anything.
Aiden agrees as well. Aiden then ventures forth for more information with Ull`Kr. The great hulking chief grunts at the questions and then speaks.
"No, my hunters were moving far and wide across the mountain. Only a week ago did our suspision grow and now seems firm. 5 had never returned from those early days. We suspected bear or natural diaster as the mountain seems angry, though I do not know why. One Hunter, Roulder, my son has seen a dark shadow while upon the north face. It was high and the night dark, but he says it moved. We looked and found nothing, but that was many days later. Now my hunters do not venture far. Storms seem to stay upon the western face and so we stay to the eastern face." He then crunches his face mightily, "Do you know what is upon the Mountain?"
Garrett Thursday June 21st, 2007 9:21:42 AM
"No, we do not know for sure what stalks the mountain. But we have had dealings in the past with their like, and one who controlled them. It would be unlikely at best that it is the same one that controls these dead, but things like that seem to happen to us. We will see I suppose, for we will go on the hunt for these dead."
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall Thursday June 21st, 2007 11:09:05 AM
""On the mountain will be a good place to die," Yngvar agrees to hunting the dead.
Yanosh Thursday June 21st, 2007 4:42:21 PM
Grunting his disapproval Yanosh turns to face Yngvar. Speaking softly in common Yanosh admonishes him "Do not tempt the Gods. Your constant talk of dieing will bring it down upon us all. I for one do not wish to die anytime soon. I have stood on the threshold of Garguls realm and I wish not to return till I am an old Dwarf." With that said Yanosh turns and faces the large Orc again knowing that he may have just crossed a line he can not take back. But he was placed in charge and he is secretly a superstitious and religious Dwarf.
Aiden d20=12 Thursday June 21st, 2007 4:52:18 PM
Listening to Garrett's response, Aiden stood still, his eyes intent, not on the chieftain, but of the other orks that were in his retinue. Some of them knew more than they had let on, and perhaps, due to their superstitions, did not disclose all of this to their chieftain.
However, all being said, soon it was to be the time to 'pack' and have the spellcasters do whatever they do in the evening to replenish their magics.
And it would also be time to check on his wolven companion, to make sure that his pack sister was in good health.
Regrouping and Gatherings Thursday June 21st, 2007 7:57:11 PM
The warchief nods to Garrett and Aiden, "Now we shall feast and drink. Then you shall go and destroy this undead thing as it killed my brothers." Ull`Kr nods to Roulder and the orc quickly stands and leaves. Ull`Kr continues as the other orc also takes his leave. "It will be small and short. Your entire party and those of the clan who are here."
Roulder exists the tent and makes his way back to Yanosh, Bohdi, Neco and Yngvar. He arrives as Yanosh admonishes Yngvar on all the talk of his upcoming glorious death. Roulder chuckles and announces to all in orc, "There is to be a feast. Ull`Kr will feast with the Icers. Go and prepare." The remaining three scrunch thier noses a bit and then turn and depart for other tents. Roulder address the party, "You will come with me to the feasting pit." He turns and heads for a low lying tree. Just near the base the ground has been dug into and crude steps lead into the earth.
Garrett and Aiden are exiting the wachiefs tent and heading towards the entrance as well. Ull`Kr is with them and several other orcs have appeared with shanks of meat and a small barrel or two.
Garrett Friday June 22nd, 2007 9:13:13 AM
Garrett moves toward the feasting pit. Using Bohdi's spell he whispers to the rest of the group. "So far so good Wunjo's. We may have some new allies and much more information. Once we have handled the problem, perhaps we can even learn tactical weaknesses of the tribes we will begin to hunt."
Garrett thinks for a second, and then adds "If they have drink, try and take it easy. We have undead to hunt in the morning."
Garrett Friday June 22nd, 2007 9:14:28 AM
(OOC: I'll be on vacation for a couple of weeks with no internet access. Rich P is going to try and fill in for me. Good Luck and Happy hunting.)
Yanosh Friday June 22nd, 2007 11:11:03 AM
As they start walking towards the feast pit Yanosh puts his arm around Bohdi's shoulders and leans close to his ear. Whispering gruffly Yanosh teasingly says "Wonder whats on the menu?" Yanosh barks in harsh laughter seeing the Gnome stiffen as they walk.
Yngvar the not so very tall Friday June 22nd, 2007 12:25:14 PM
"Orc allies?" The wold sure is different outside the village.
Bohdi Nackle Friday June 22nd, 2007 2:36:46 PM
Bohdi looked visibly uncomfortable at the notion of a 'feast.' "Gives new meaning to idea of having guests for dinner," he replied to Yanosh nervously.
Aiden Saturday June 23rd, 2007 8:11:16 AM
"well done.." was all that Aiden would say to Garrett, signifying his approval (like Garrett needed it) on how he interacted with the ork chieftain.
"I used the hunting so that I can check on our packsister..." Aiden added towards Garrett. "suggestions?"
A Word from the Woods Saturday June 23rd, 2007 1:11:34 PM
As the group begins to make their way to the 'feast' a rustling is heard from a patch of trees on the side of the hill.
A low, sonorous voice bursts forth, "There shall be no alliance! The wretches of Twin Tusk will leave Burfell or die!" A few trees begin to shake violently as the voice echoes around the group.
The voice is familiar to the party, though no one is sure where they have heard it before. The echoes form the stone walls dilutes it.
The orcs walking with the party all spin, weapons coming out. Sense Motive DC 10Highlight to display spoiler: { The orcs seem to be slightly afraid. As if some nightmare is finally coming alive to seek vengence}
Ull'Kr actually steps partially forward and address the land about him, but mostly faces the rustling trees. "But we are NOT Tuskers. We are Urðr Frið! I am Ull`Kr and I have heard you." Several orcs though they still cling to thier weapons take respectful knees. Some though, it can be noted stare in near horror at Ull`Kr and his words.
Aiden Sunday June 24th, 2007 12:53:18 PM
Aiden, hearing the noise and the threats, awaits for Garrett to make his move. However, he will not be intimidated by whatever is out there. His hand ready to reach over to the massive two headed axe that hung from his back.
He was ready to defend...not only his group, but Ull'Kr as well. Perhaps one of his fellow party members has something that could help show where or what was yelling these challenges in such a craven manner. He held his tongue, even though Aiden was close to sending out a challenge to whatever creature was there.
(OOC: he is trying to do this in such a way that it isn't misconstrued...aka him pulling a weapon on Ull'Kr...That would mean insult, and possibly death to the entire tentative 'treaty' they had going)
DM understood, no problem
Yanosh Monday June 25th, 2007 1:50:16 AM
At the sound of the voice Yanosh's hands flash to his weapons drawing them befor he even thinks of any possible insult. Spining away from the party, he is walking with. Yanosh faces out to where he heard the voice coming from.
"Who ever you are come out and show your self! Or cower where you are from our combinded might!" The scarred Dwarven warrior calls out.
When Yanosh spins his scarf falls from his face and head fully showing his scars.
Softly his helmet spins in the soil, where it fell as Yanosh reached for his axes.
Yngvar the not so very tall d20+1=15 Monday June 25th, 2007 9:55:30 AM
Sense Motive 15 (+2 vs. orcs)
"Yeah!" Yngvar dittos Yanosh, shield and axe at the ready.
Yanosh Monday June 25th, 2007 1:52:38 PM
Yanosh watches intently for any movement that may be a sign of aggression from out of the woods. Axes held tightly they sway slightly in an unfamiliar dance in the Dwarfs grip. Shield loosely hangs on his back. Yanosh lets it slip from his shoulders to the ground. Dipping the battleaxe in his left hand to let it slip off.
Mountains and Men Monday June 25th, 2007 4:23:55 PM
The group reacts quickly and in similar fashion as the orcs. Adien steps forward and pulls his axe, Yanosh spins with his own axe and calls challenge to the woods and whatever may lie within. Yngvar seconds the challenge and prepares his blade.
Garrett stands ready, the challenge having been called ou he sees no need to verbally add anymore and Bohdi remains where he is.
Again a few trees rustle in the wood as if it was alive. Over the walls in the west, where the storms of yesterday had been raging there are brilliant flashs. The voice calls out again and echoes across the vale stone walls.
"Ice Peakers, return to whence you came. How...BOOM!... Your blood is related to Frig'Isa, lady of ...BOOM!... ! Return to your camp where your ulfs wait and I will decide your fate ...BOOM!... "
Most of the orcs duck in the brilliance of the lightning reflecting into the vale. Some even break for cover. Ull`Kr looks to Garrett and Aiden, "You must go now. Destroy the darkness and return. I must prepare my people to find another home." He trails off and then softly adds, "Though I do not know where."
Ull`Kr turns to the small handful still about and calls loudly, "Inside!" and he moves back towards his tent. The party sees of the 5 orcs still about a pair of them meet. Thier faces full of disdain for the order to not charge the trees and a whisper of communication occurs between them. Listen DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {"The chief is becoming soft, he is weak. If these human weaklings return so be it. If they do not we take the tribe."} The speaker is a broad shouldered orc about Aiden's size. A tattoo decorates his face and Aiden recognizes the bead work in his hair. Each of the 6 red stone represents a gift from a warlord of Twin Tusk for victory of combat and 2 blue stones are tokens of prowess from Kull'Gjirn himself. Aiden does not know his name.
Bohdi Nackle Monday June 25th, 2007 11:19:43 PM
"Wauuuuuugh! Talk about out of the fry pan, into the fire!" Bohdi began keening in the distinctive, high-pitched whine of a gnome in mortal danger.
"What is that voice?" Bohdi whispered to his companions. "How does it know who we are--and who Frigg'Isa is?"
Garret (Subbed by Carl) d20+4=17 d20+6=25 d20+4=12 d20+8=10 Tuesday June 26th, 2007 10:19:54 AM
At the low voice from the woods Garret draws his longsword in one smooth motion and turns to face the speaker. His jaw clenches as the voice issues its commands, but he holds his council. Best to see where this leads...
He does his best to recognize the familiar voice (Wis check 12), or see any sign of who might be speaking (Spot 10).
The orcs' reaction is slighly surprising; they seem almost afraid of the speaker (Sense Motive 17). Ull`Kr's reaction is more surprising still. He seems cowed in the face of these words, and Garret senses trouble brewing amongst the orc leader's warriors (Listen 25). Even with his limited knowledge of orc politics, he's pretty sure this is no way for a warchief to act if he plans on keeping his position (and his head).
"We will seek out this darkness, Ull`Kr" Garret announces, turning to look at the orc leader. "And we will destroy it. We will speak further when that is done."
Turning back to the Icers he nods at the treeline and begins to stride forwards. "Let's begin with whatever is making all that racket in the woods!" he mutters softly through Bodhi's spell, quiet enough to not be overheard by any nearby orcs. "It seems to know an awful lot about us. Spread out wide, so we can't be targeted en masse by any area spells, and get ready to charge if we come under attack."
(OOC: Readied action: Garret will cast Shield of Faith should they come under attack, and break into a run).
(DM, how far are the party from the rustling trees?)
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall d20+1=21 Tuesday June 26th, 2007 11:10:59 AM
Listen Nat 20 +1 (+2 vs. orcs)
"Fire? Frying pan?" Yngvar questions Bohdi as the party begins to move forward. "This is no time to eat!"
Aiden d20=1 d20=17 Tuesday June 26th, 2007 12:46:13 PM
Aiden was caught up in the moment, trying to see just what was causing all of the shouts and booms. But unfortunately, he could not see, from his view, just what was causing all of the chaos.
He, too, heard the underlying threats of the orken warriors. The ork chieftain was certainly acting different than the traditional leader, though some could construe as cowardice, he may have been trying to save more of his people.
A small smile (bordering on a smirk) appeared even as he tried to put his hand onto Garrett's (and if unsuccessful), Bohdi's shoulders.
Through the spell, "wunjo...before we run into something unknown...can a spell be cast to see if this is all enchantment and no axe? Perhaps that will give us an area to focus on instead of running throughout the woods..."
For Aiden, it was...well...almost expected, that something such as this would happen. He had suspected of some foul play within the town of Ice Peaks with how the attack had been orchestrated, and the division of the power within the village. So, too, it would appear the same was occurring now.
Adding to his murmurred message, "this is like what had happened in our village, causing a gap within their pack. We should warn the chieftain of the trickery...."
Looking at Neco, he nodded towards her. Of the individuals, everyone would be focusing on the males to look strong. SHE could sneak (as a female and someone who is just plain GOOD at sneaking) to the chieftain and warn him of the subterfuge...
spot: 1 + 8 = 9 Listen: 17 + 8 = 25
Aiden wondered if his wolf companion would hear a command/whistle to come to him....
Couple points for Clarity Tuesday June 26th, 2007 1:20:02 PM
Fell free to add a post if this changes anything. I will post tonight officially
The BOOMS are thunder, coming several seconds behind the flashes of lightning. They were far louder than the voice and hence only some was heard
The group is about 100 feet from the trees.
Oh and Carl Frigg`Isa is a former party member, who sacrificed herself to save the entire party. There is conjecture among the group she ascended beyond the mortal realm and watches over the party still. There should be no way any of the orcs about you would know that name
Garret (subbed by Carl) Tuesday June 26th, 2007 3:56:24 PM
Garret nods at Aiden's words.
"Good thinking, Aiden. A simple magical detection cantrip should pinpoint any spells being cast or items being carried by our mystery voice, if it simply someone hiding in the woods. I have such a spell prepared, but will need to get closer to cast it."
He ponders Aiden's concerns of trickery as he moves towards the trees. Could this be a ruse, an attempt to split the party from the orcs as a prelude to an attack? Perhaps, though there may be many other explanations. He concedes it cannot hurt to be prudent, however.
"Neco" he whispers through Bodhi's spell "When the opportunity arises, find a hiding spot. Hang back here, and you'll still be in range of Bodhi's message spell when we reach the treeline. If it's some sort of trap we'll alert you. Also, keep watch on our orc friends. We don't want any of them deciding to sneak up behind us."
Yanosh Tuesday June 26th, 2007 4:01:22 PM
Yanosh replaces his battle axe and picks up his helmet placing it on his head. Sliding his shield onto his arm and gripping the grip Yanosh strides towards the woods. Moving to 20 feet from the next person Yanosh moves out with the group in a skirmish line.
Yanosh (2nd post) Tuesday June 26th, 2007 4:18:07 PM
"Psst Bohdi." The dwarf softly whispers to the gnome over the link. "Who is Frigg'Isa?"
Near the Talking Tree Tuesday June 26th, 2007 9:32:08 PM
the reactio nof the orcs is most unexpected and several of the group spot and hear the mini conference. Ice peak is not the only village with dissention issues it would seem. though as sure as Aiden is alive, he's sure dissention here will end in blood.
Garrett calls a quick plan and with weapon out moves towrds the trees. The voice is very familiar and he will probably be kicking himself when he discovers the source, but it deftly eludes his mental grasp.
The group spreads out and closes, Bohdi whispers a thought on everyones mind. How could whoever or whatever it was, know Frigg`Issa. Bohdi mumbles and poor Yngvar gets lost in the translation.
Yanosh wonders aloud at who Frigg`Isa is, for the brave dwarf was not yet with Aiden, Garrett and Bohdi when the brave girl willingly gave her life and paved the way for the Blood Pack to come.
Neco freezes where she is, perhaps also taken a bit back by the lightning, thunder and ominous reactions of the orcs about her. Or is she simply silently awaiting the moment to slip off and hide as Aiden and Garrett mentioned.
The group closes to within 30' of the trees, but there is little to see. High above and to the west another split of lightning fills the sky. this one is long lived and forks through the clear sky far enough to be caught in everyones peripheral vision. less than a second later a deafening KIZ-BOOOOM! rocks the vale walls and its inhabitants.
Bohdi Nackle Wednesday June 27th, 2007 7:42:22 AM
Shakily, Bohdi joined the others approaching the tree line. "I'd need to be closer to try a detection spell, too," he confirmed. He stayed with Yanosh and the other warriors and cast the spell (Detect Magic), maintaining his concentration as they advanced.
Yngvar the not so very tall Wednesday June 27th, 2007 9:50:25 AM
"Say," Yngvar wonders aloud, "Doesn't lightning like metal?"
Getting fried in his armor before he can do anything doesn't strike Yngvar as a very heroic death.
Garret (subbed by Carl) d20+8=14 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 3:49:48 PM
The cleric continues to stride purposefully towards the tree line, weapon and spell at the ready (OOC: continue readied action: cast Shield of Faith if attacked).
Once again he peers into the trees, searching for any sign of movement (Spot 14).
Noticing Bodhi cast his spell, Garret whispers "Do you see anything?"
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yanosh Wednesday June 27th, 2007 3:54:46 PM
"Come out, come out who ever you are. Yanosh wants to play." Grimly the Dwarf taunts the unseen voice. "And see how my new Axe cuts something more then the undead."
With his face unwrapped it is plain just how much the Dwarf loves combat. His eyes shine with a wicked light and his face in nearly frozen in a grissly smile of anticipation. Shield up and ready the Dwarfs knuckles crack with his powerful grip on his war axe's handle. Seeing Bohdi close Yanosh moves to help protect him with his shield.
Aiden d20=6 Wednesday June 27th, 2007 4:10:08 PM
Aiden's face started to show a concerned expression. There were several people that he suspected as having 'difficulties' with their mission from Ice Peaks, and personally hoped that one in particular was having nothing to do with the current situation.
~I hope that Nauth'iz, nor our...parents..., are involved within this...~ It would make for a difficult situation, either case, for it would be like striking against one's own blood. That would be the second time within his life that Aiden would be forced to do such a thing...something that he hoped, nay, dreaded the thought of having to do...
He continued to make his way towards the situation, taking the warrior's route, but also calling his wolven companion (who shouldn't be TOO far away I think) from the situation...
(listen skill to identify voice since it has to be someone they have dealt with from the village to name Frigga: 6 + 8 = 14)
Upon the Edge of Disaster Wednesday June 27th, 2007 9:13:56 PM
Bohdi, with the others moves forward, the gnome donning the familiar magic spectacles that marks his personal version of Detect Magic. A few moments would be needed to sort through everything. First the precense of magic, then the auras. Bohdi is certain emenating just 20' into the trees are several faint auras and is pretty sure they are all at the same point. Meaning a lone figure. The voice cries out again, but softer as if not wanting any to hear beyond the group.
"Take not one step farther! Return to where your ulfs are kept, the sisters wait for your return. Do not enter the sacred grove of Nauthiz'ul'NackleJax! Your bravery will ruin all!" Sence Motive DC 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {A hint of panic is in the voice}
Garrett thinks he spies some movement deeper in, the figure doing his best to remain unseen.
Aiden's thought take a darker turn, but then he feels another presence and this time there is no doubt as it speaks to him in his mind. It has been the precense, the call of power and force that gave him the ability to speak to his ulf companion. The voice pulses with authority, order and power. Highlight to display spoiler: {'I am Burfell, take heed of my messanger}. The more human voice in his ears is very familiar, but the thunder and the echoes distract Aiden and the familiarity slips just beyond his grasp.
Yanosh challenges agian the force in the trees. Dwarven nerve and a sense of the pragmatic pushing any thoughts that the voice is supernatural in origin from his mind. His inner self stating quite plainly that someone is trying to make him look foolish and that person would quickly learn the folly of that.
A lone orc stands with his arms folded looking towards the trees. The same with the beads of honor and a firm scowl on his face. It would appear that he too has decided what source may belong to that voice from the trees. Even a mighty stroke of lightning and bone jarring clap of thunder does little to him. His hand grips his axe and with a spit to the ground in the party's direction he turns away and barks at an unseen orc to get his wretched hide back inside, but in far less words.
Carl OOC Thursday June 28th, 2007 6:46:00 AM
Apologies folks, playing catchup :-)
Nauthiz'ul'NackleJax? DM Nauthiz'ul is the name of a former party member who stayed behind on the this adventure. Nackle is Bohdi's last name. Jax is Garrett's last name. Ulfs? DM means Wolf we've flavored the language with Norse, Sweedish and Icelandic
Don't want to lead the [party in the wrong direction, but none too sure what's going on :-)
Yngvar the not so very tall d20+1=3 Thursday June 28th, 2007 10:44:58 AM
Sense Motive 3 (+2 vs. orcs)
"What are we doing?" Yngvar asks the group at large.
Aiden d20=2 d20=17 Thursday June 28th, 2007 5:03:35 PM
Aiden had kept moving along, trying to his wit's end to figure out just whom was behind all of this chaos.
And then he heard THAT voice and stopped. It was one thing (as he had seen with Bohdi) to make loud sounds, and even, bring flashes of lightning.
However, to speak to his mind, THAT was completely another thing altogether. That was magic to be respected, in addition to the 'presence' that allowed him to speak to his packsister earlier...
However, as superstitious as he was, he did not lack in the bravery area, questioning the presence (OOC: he is trying to do so in a 'respectful' manner). In his mind, *Mighty Burfell, why do you bless us on this journey, but not want us to reach an accord with the orks? I am but simple tracker and from what I have seen, most of them respect our ways of the land...what are we missing in this hunt?*
For those of his companions who were watching (or following) Aiden, he actually stopped in a partial clearing, his eyes intent, almost challenging...He seemed to be almost guarding against something, daring it, even as both hands gripped the massive two-headed orken axe.
Sense motive: failed to make it even close (starting with a 2)...he didn't figure out that the voice was panicked.
(OOC: I basically rolled a 17 (without accounting will bonus to see if he has the chatzpah to ask the spirit to explain things to him))
(OOC: Yes, I know I am SOOOO setting Aiden up for some hurt...but heck, Bohdi keeps saying he is a barbarian...)
DM Thursday June 28th, 2007 9:51:29 PM
Going to wait on the others tonight will be posting tomorrow
Garrett (subbed by Carl) d20+4=17 Friday June 29th, 2007 6:04:31 AM
Garret comes to a halt.
Nauthiz'ul'NackleJax? What's going on here? Could this voice from the woods be their companion? (Listen: roll of 17+ mod). And if so, why does he seem so desperate for them to stay away? The cleric finds himself at something of a loss. If it is their friend, perhaps they should do as he requests...
Garret turns to his companions and mutters "If that is Nauthiz, he must have a reason for his request. Perhaps we should do as he says. What say you all?"
Bohdi Nackle Friday June 29th, 2007 8:24:44 AM
"This is bloody mad," Bohdi muttered. "But if it's Nauth, it wouldn't be the first time he's shown up in the middle of the wild unexpectedly. That boy gets around."
He shrugged, then motioned in the direction of the cliff and Aiden's wolf. "Shall we?"
Yngvar the not so very tall Friday June 29th, 2007 9:44:30 AM
Yngvar looks around the group, "If we show fear of the voice won't the orcs attack us from behind?"
Great Gatherings Friday June 29th, 2007 10:25:06 AM
Aiden stops in his tracks his eyes are hard as if he is concentrating on something that has his full attention. His mind reels at the implications, superstitions had long held Burfell sacred and some even claimed to commune directly with the mountain. Until this day, Aiden, with nearly everyone else universally, thought those claims made by men and women who had been in the cold to long. Was he going mad then. 'No.' The deep resonating voice answered. 'Go to the wolf. They are waiting.' Aiden feels the presence depart, the cold snaps back to his face as if for the last few moments his ability to feel the wold about him was hung in suspension. Just a few feet away, Bohdi and Garrett are quietly discussing the possibility of Nauthiz`Ul being the source of all this. He would have reasons they would all hear soon enough, probably best to follow his lead for now. Yngvar makes a point of appearing weak to the orcs by cowing to the voice, but the orcs all bent first, by call of their own warchief. Not a universally popular decision, but the group likely will appear no worse off if they skirt the trees and move to exit the vale. After all they needed to exit the vale to go after Skalti anyway.
So by Garrett and Bohdi's direction, the group does indeed come back together in a tighter group and skirt right of the trees and towards the waterfall and the hidden ravine leading out of the vale. Just before the group gets out of range, Neco whispers that she will remain for a bit and then slip back to the cave on the ledge before nightfall. In case the orcs decide to get chatty amongst themselves, she might be able to learn more information.
The group exists the vale to the ravine. The sight just down the gentle slope is not precisely as they left it. About 100' away and against the ravines towering stone west wall is Aidens wolf. Plus another of equal size and like markings meaning it must be that of Nauthiz`Ull. Also you can spot a pure white bear, about the size of the wolves, a sne bear. Quick, good swimmers and blessed with a sharp nose, they are the smaller cousins to the powerful Iss bears that hunt whale and other powerful creatures on the tundra. Just behind the bear are two humanoids. In the shadow and at this distance it is hard to tell anything more. One does seem to be speaking to all three of the animals however.
Heyoka Friday June 29th, 2007 12:16:43 PM
... "Look, I understand that we have to hurry up and meet with the others. But who are they? and why do we have to bring him along?"
She motions towards the other humanoid just behind her, while keeping her eyes on the wolf leading them.
The female talking to the wolf is average of stature, with sharp features that seem almost fey. Her large grey eyes seem to bore into the wolf's hide as she impatiently awaits a response.
The bear seems protective of her, staying at her side, even though he obviously wants to run.
Yanosh Friday June 29th, 2007 4:37:49 PM
Hearing the others speak of leaving the trees alone Yanosh growls his desention but follows the group.
In the Vale Yanosh see the humanoids and states gravely "Now we get to crack some skulls. Who's first?" The protective Dwarf steps to the front of the group challenging the new comers.
Yanosh Friday June 29th, 2007 4:39:48 PM
OoC sorry for the missed post yesterday. I had a rude invasion of the real world.
Aiden d20=8 d20=1 Saturday June 30th, 2007 8:15:53 AM
Aiden showed no surprise, "ease Yanosh..." as he slipped back into speaking with minimum words. Putting his hand upon Yanosh's shoulder, "They were led here by Burfell..."
There was confidence, even strength, in how he pronounced those words. A wry grin appeared on his face as he gently shook his head. ~If this keeps up, Garrett will not be the only priest...~ he thought ironically to himself.
A tall, bearded youth wearing a breast plate with the head of a large axe almost peaking over his shoulder began to walk towards his wolf sister (and the new companions(?)).
(OOC: If the message spell is still up:
He turns towards Bohdi, and gives a quick look, and quiet comment, "Bohdi, continue to seek the magic...it is still good to know if these are the only ones within the plains...Yanosh, Neco, turn to spot for any orks...")
(OOC: I am assuming that Garrett is doing the same, and therefore he is following behind, in step, to Garrett. I know this is a little bit out of character for Aiden, but I figure that since Garrett's player isn't on, Aiden will pick up the slack a little bit.)
spot (to see if any orks are hiding/following still): 8 + 8 = 16
listen (to hear if any other critters are scurrying around, including orks): 1 (fail) + 8 = 9
Yngvar the not so very tall Saturday June 30th, 2007 11:15:13 AM
When Yanosh indicates that there's going to be a battle (finally) Yngvar's spirits perk up.
He is soon crestfallen when Aiden makes it clear that there won't be an opportunity to spill blood yet again.
Let's Get Together Sunday July 1st, 2007 11:45:19 AM
Aiden takes the lead seeing the two with his wolf and what could only be Nauthiz`Ull's wolf. The woman a strange looking elf to be sure, perhaps she actually had fey blood within her was definately talking to the animals, even his wolf. As Aiden speaks about Burfell having brought them here a feeling wraps about him. Very much like a father approving of his son.
Yanosh and Yngvar stand down, but for the most part no one does or says much.
Neco stayed behind at the orc camp to learn or hear what she could, promising to catch up later. Bohdi's of Magic Detection is long spent, but perhaps he could cast it again. The Message spell is still in operation, though over 45 minutes have passed. it soon will expire.
The wolf answers Heyoka quite simply, "They are my pack and that one is trusted by my pack. That is enough." The last coming out in a near growl leaving no room in the elf's mind to debate the point any further.
Feel free to multiple post within reason. As I'm sure everyone knows we have new players. We are going to take a few days getting introductions in and keep them in character. Then I can get to the module as originally intended :)
Yanosh Sunday July 1st, 2007 12:28:54 PM
The stout Dwarven warrior rowls softly in an attempt to easy his lust for battle. Muscles relax as his breathing settles. Shaking his head his eyes clear. Looking up at Aiden Yanosh is surprised to see its him stopping his advance and not Garrett.
"We know them not Aiden. And we know not their intentions." Looking at the new comers Yanosh asks them, "So? What is your intentions here?" His doubting expression clear on his burn scarred face.
Protectively Yanosh steps close to Aiden. Using his shield to offer him some cover if needed.
Aiden d20=3 d20=6 Sunday July 1st, 2007 8:01:31 PM
Aiden turned towards Yanosh, his stare intense. "Too difficult to explain Yanosh..." he muttered, using the spell to guide his words, "but the spirit of the mountain DOES guide them.." his words truly reflecting his belief.
"The packsisters also show trust for them..." As Yanosh brings himself (and his shield) to Aiden, "though you are wise to be wary...thank you my friend..."
"Remember to be wary of the orks...watch for them if they are about. "
Listen: 3 + 8 = 11 (13 for ork) Spot: 6 + 8 = 14 (16 for ork)
Heyoka Sunday July 1st, 2007 9:55:58 PM
Looking back towards the group of warriors they are rapidly approaching, she shrugs.
"Fine then. We trust them. After all, the Mother won't let me rest until I do this." Settling her shoulders into a form that describes both stubborness and submission, she trudges onward with the Wolf that has led her and Fisher here.
::Hopefully they/I will be able to do more than watch when the time comes::
Yngvar the not so very tall Monday July 2nd, 2007 9:48:47 AM
"All I want to do is bury my axe in something," sighs Yngvar, "But everywhere we go we make friends."
Garrett (subbed by Carl) Monday July 2nd, 2007 9:54:52 AM
Garrett looks the newcomers over with a degree of caution, but is encouraged by Aiden's words of support. He steps forward, weapon sheathed.
"Well met. My name is Garrett, and I lead these warriors. Who are you, and how came you to be here?"
Yanosh d20+2=17 d20+3=23 Monday July 2nd, 2007 12:07:56 PM
Aidens remark of the Orcs finally sinks into his thick Dwarven skull. Yanosh turns to watch for unscrupulous Orcs. No matter that they have a treaty with them Yanosh still barely trust them. Yanosh moves to the edge of the group and faces to the rear to watch for Orcs.
Spot=17+2(mod bonus)=19 Listen=23(NAT 20)
Aiden Monday July 2nd, 2007 1:55:09 PM
(OOC: this is as a remark to Yanosh's comment "...All I want to do is bury my axe in something...")
Aiden, without a moment's hesitation, wryly remarks, "we're due dwarf...we're due..."
And in the Blue Corner.... Monday July 2nd, 2007 5:10:51 PM
Aiden asks Yanosh to keep an eye out behind them just in case the orcs did have second thoughts. the ranger hardly believes it is necessary, but it does give the dwarf a purposeful thing to do at the moment. There is no sign of orc activity.
The two figures by the pair of wolves become more obvious as the group closes to comfortable conversational distance. One is female and an elf, the other, a human male. Both are tundra dressed against the cold and poking out from the fur cloaks and over coats both are belted with rapier and bow.
Garrett is the first to talk to them, extending both his hand and his name.
Yanosh nods to Aiden and turns to guard the rear. Moving down the ravine wall in the shadows is a human male. He steps quietly, but quickly and form the gaze or three over his shoulder, it is apparent his stealth is designed so the orcs do not hear him more than the party not see him. His eyes flick back to Yanosh and a coy smile of familiarity crosses his face.
Yanosh does not quite place him. He seems familiar, but dress a man in thick grey and white furs and they all look a like at 60'.
Nauthiz'Ull Monday July 2nd, 2007 6:11:01 PM
With his head down and shoulders pulled back, the ranger who stayed back at Ice Peak stalks down to where the others are. His pale blue eyes stand out as surreal as ever against the deeply tanned skin. He looks upon Garrett and Aiden and his all-time favorite gnome with warmth and concern. A low-toned whistle escapes his lips and instantly his mottled ulf comes trotting up to him, nuzzling his leg with affection.
"Wunjos! It looks as though I am just in time to save your hides." A smirk eases its way across his face, perhaps as an attempt to hide the worry that still lurks behind his eyes. His steps, quick and strong, bring him up to the group in seconds and an arm is extended in Ice Peak tradition to both each of his wunjos.
Once he has shaken arms with everyone he looks upon Garret and Bohdi and nods in the direction of the elven woman and the other human.
"I found these two out on their own; the iss'bear belongs to her. Good thing I did too or they would have never fulfilled their intentions."
Turning his head to look behind him his faces seems a bit more at ease and a blatant smile smears his weathered face. A slight chuckle comes forth from a fur covered throat and he shakes his head a few times.
"The Sacred Grove of Nauthiz'ul'Nackle'Jax."
ooc: heya there guys! I am back and WAY excited to be here! Things in the RL have settled down immensely for the time being. To Yngvar and the two new players, welcome aboard and I am pumped to be playing with you!
Heyoka Monday July 2nd, 2007 7:31:24 PM
Muttering to herself at the remark about not fulfilling her intentions withouth them, she turns to the one who asked her name.
An elfen woman of very little beauty. She might be prettier than the average dwarf, but not by much. It looks like she's been alone for a very long time, and has no interest in keeping herself looking good for guests.
She walks along, somewhat supported by the quarterstaff she uses as a walking stick. Hanging off of the top of it is a line with 3 frozen fish dangling from it. Most likely as a food sourse for the bear that leans protectively into her.
You can see 2 scimitars well kept and hanging from her makeshift belt. Other than this and a backpack, you see no signs of her equipment.
Her flinty grey eyes look up into Garret's face and she responds.
"I am Heyoka. This is Fisher," she put her hand on the bear's back, who growls cautiously," and we're trying to find out what in the underwold happened to make the Mother so pissed. I won't get any peace until I do."
Bohdi Nackle Monday July 2nd, 2007 11:54:39 PM ooc: Drew! What a terrific surprise! Welcome back, dude!
Sheila and Jim! Welcome!
DM Dan--dude, I am so sc--wed right now in real life, it ain't funny! Hope to get a "posting report" up, but would be eternally grateful if I could pass this week .... oy.
Bohdi Nackle the gnome stared uncomprehendingly at his old wunjo and blood brother, Nauthiz'Ull, and at the newcomers.
He pointed. He gaped. He shrugged. He opened his mouth as if to speak, but no noise came out. He shrugged again.
The raven sitting on his shoulder pecked him on the head, and croaked, "What he means is, welcome back! Who are the newcomers?"
Nauthiz'll [RPing addendum] Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 12:45:19 PM
Laughing lightly at the gnome's, very rare, lack of words nauth's eyes switch to the inky bird sitting on the litte guy's shoulder and shrugs a bit.
"I will let them introduce themselves Squork. This one though," he motions to the exotic looking female, "appears very fond of and very capable of working with animals. Her companion is quite impressive and perhaps a bit hungry...bird."
Teeth as white as weathered paper are expossed in a large, toothy grin as the ranger runs a fur-mitted hand through his spiky, twig-like black hair.
He turns to his brother of the Path and nods appreciatively. "You did well Aiden, getting them here safely. Your skills are as strong as ever-your eye almost as sharp as mine." With a wink Nauth sits down on the snow and pulls out a piece of hardtack and begins to gnaw.
Yanosh Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 12:58:23 PM
Seeing the human and noting something familiar Yanosh watches him but lets him by. Uncomfortable with whats going on the surrly Dwarf crouches in the shadows keeping watch for Orcs. Releif floods through him when he sees Nauthiz'Ull has rejoined them.
"Friendly Orcs, more strangers on the tundra. Domi," Yanosh speaks softly looking to the sky, "Show me why I am here. Lead me to what you call me for." War axe and shield ready, Yanosh crouches waiting.
Aiden Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 1:06:42 PM
ooc: welcome back Drew...and welcome to the other new players...
Aiden shrugged at Nauth'iz comments, as he was not one for overwhelming emotions, especially on the field. He gave a small nod towards Nauth'iz, and the packsister that came with him, a sign that Aiden truly was happy that his fellow tracker was back.
Looking over towards the bear, he gave a slight nod to the creature and then to Heyoka. "Not sure...the journey we take is different, though maybe related..."
The gruff ranger then looked towards Garrett and Bohdi. "That's their tasks to explain..."
Aiden enjoyed throwing Bohdi into the mix, primarily because he always spun things (verbally) in an entertaining way. It must be a result of being 'from the city'.
Posting Report (DM) Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 3:49:01 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of June 25-June 29 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...o...+...x Bohdi-Kup............x...o...x...o...x Garrett-Chris.........o...x...x...o...x Aiden-Paul............o...x...x...x...x Neco-James..........o...o...+..o...o Yanosh-Edd..........x...x...x...o...x Yngvar-Dru...........x...x...x...x...x Heyoka-Shelia......+...+...+...+...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --DM waited on Thursday for players and as a result did not post until Friday. Firday's Post happened Saturday . --Recieved word on Neco, Paul will need to be dropping out. --Shelia joins the game and posts Friday.
And in The Red Corner.... Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 5:17:27 PM
Nauthiz`Ull brings stunned silence for the most part. The only greater surprise might have been Dregar or Edglar. Aiden recovers the quickest, answering the elf and deferring to Garrett and Bohdi for more in depth explantions. Something about the elven woman and bear strike Aiden as being very correct, here and now in the shadow of mighty Burfell. Perhaps the mountain itself had reached out to touch her and brought her forth?
The elf is called Heyoka, her pure white Sne Bear is Fisher and it is obvious that the bear, the wolves and Squork are going to have some interesting times ahead together. Mostly the bear and wolves as they have been prancing about each other and sniffing the other since they got near one another.
The human male stands quiet, perhaps waiting for the friends to say thier hellos.
Yanosh looks back up the trail for orcs. There is no sign of them, but under his feet the dwarf feels that the stone is troubled. A hard feeling of pure intuition that comes witha closeness no other race enjoys with the rock upon which they stand. The word that come to his mind is 'upset.'
Garrett (subbed by Carl) Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 6:35:40 PM
Garrett nods as Heyoka expresses her concerns at the unnatural events. "We too are.."
Then he turns and notices Nauthiz'll.
"Nauth? What in... What in the Wold are you doing here? It's good to see you again my wunjo!"
He grins at Bodhi's reaction, and taps the gnome gently on the head. "Careful, little brother, your tongue will freeze if you leave your mouth hanging open like that for much longer."
He turns back to Heyoka. "I apologise, I do not mean to appear rude, it is just we were not expecting to see... that is, this has all come as quite a surprise... Bodhi, perhaps you could bring everyone up to speed?"
Nauthiz'Ull Wednesday July 4th, 2007 9:44:16 AM
As Garrett asks as to his sudden appearance, the smile, the teeth and the casual demeanor seems to meld away. He looks upon one of Domi's blessed and pulls his lips in a tight, pseudo-smile fashion.
"I will discuss that tonight. First we need to get camp set up and get some food going. We will also need to establish watch partners."
Looking onto his little wunjo with softer eyes the tensions seems to ease a bit as his fur-clad hand swings over and lands on Bohdi's shoulder. "Plus, Bohdi needs to fill us all in before I explain."
ooc-Kup, I know that you are more than busy, so please take Nauth's persistence as friendly banter. No pressures on getting a summary up or anything too time consuming.
Yanosh d20+1=10 d20+2=17 Wednesday July 4th, 2007 1:39:51 PM
Yanosh appraoches Aiden. "Aiden," the scarred Dwarf whispers, "This is a troubled Mountain. The stones reverberate of being upset. I don't know how to explain it better to a surface dweller my friend." Yanosh looks around at the rest. "You are a follower of nature. You understand right? We must find the creator of the undead and end his reign. NOW!" Looking at Nauth, "I will take my usual shift, Mid Dark." (second or third wichever it works out as.)
listen=10 spot=17
Aiden Wednesday July 4th, 2007 5:12:50 PM
Aiden looks towards Yanosh, "agreed..."
And with that he then moved over towards Garrett's side, touching his shoulder. His advice was just whispers, "we need to continue our journey for Domi and for Burfell."
Yngvar the not so very tall Wednesday July 4th, 2007 8:09:41 PM
"I'm all for finding something to bash," chimes in Yngvar.
Nauthiz'Ull Thursday July 5th, 2007 3:25:37 PM
Looking on the grizzled dwarf with satisfaction and a knowing of how dwarven eyes can pierce the night, Nauth nods towards Yanosh.
"I will take the shift of Dawn, with Bohdi if he has no quarrels with that. The day has been long trying to catch up with you all and I could use a bit of rest soon. Plus, there are some things that I wish to discuss with our sage wunjo here."
Turning to the other dwarf, Yngvar, he looks him over with a new light. He was a bodyguard and held with some regard in Ice Peak. Nauth considers him with intent and nods as if deciding the answer to some internal question.
ooc-I will be leaving for the weekend around 2:30ish EST tomorrow (so expect a post from me before then) and I will not be returning until Sunday evening. Lets get some dialogue going here with the new companions. Yngvar, could you throw out a bit of self-description so that us new/returning players could get an idea of what he looks like?
Rendal d20=14 Thursday July 5th, 2007 4:13:02 PM
Seemingly coming out of a daze, the human brushes his blond hair out of his eyes.
After scanning the group he shudders in shock as he looks at, and possibly through, the gnome.
He politely coughs and moves gracefully forward, showing his elegance. In a booming voice, as if in front of an audience, he intones "You must be Bohdi. Well I guess this is for you. To be honest I never thought that I would meet you. I guess they must have some foresight or some such. Though I should have known. My mentor was gifted but not this far in advance."
With a flourish from out of now where he offers the gnome a sealed envelope.
His blue eyes shine as he smiles knowingly, while waiting politely for the gnome to take the sealed envelope.
The group notices that he is very well dressed under his cold outfit and carries a case holding some kind of instrument. The outfit is made for formal presentations in very cold weather.
Interestingly enough he seems to have a lot of pockets intricately arrayed in his outfit, so as to be easily accessible.
::Out Of Game note: Roll is for how dramaticly he can perform this dramatic gesture. 14+11=25::
After the envelope is received, he takes one step forward, then does a flourishing back-flip, into his original position, behind the animals and the elf.
Heyoka Thursday July 5th, 2007 6:47:54 PM
Rolling her eyes, she folds her arms and waits for an explanation of what's going on.
DM Thursday July 5th, 2007 10:15:18 PM
The Dm is going to let the characters sorta dictate the flow here.
Suffice it to say the group returns to the smal hidden cave without issue and is set up for camp
Garrett Friday July 6th, 2007 9:29:27 AM
(OOC: welcome everyone. Just got back from vacation, so I'm still catching up on posts. Look forward to playing with you all. Thanks for subbing for me Carl, great job.)
Garrett welcomes the new members of our party, as well as his Wunjo Nauth. "It is good to have you all with us. We begin the hunt for the walking dead, and whatever directs them."
Garrett raises an eyebrow at Rendal, unsure how to take the odd acting man. Such displays are quite unusual for the Vein and it's people. Then noting the addition of Nauths Ulf, and the bear he remarks "Before long, we may have more four legged members to our group than two."
"Come. Let us take shelter in the cave and catch up over a fire."
"Let me give a quick summary of what we are doing. We are going to hunt down and reclaim the shield of Domi, an item given to our village by Domi himself long ago. It kept us close to him. It was taken by the tuskers in a raid long ago, and until recently it was deemed not necessary to retrieve it. We came here, believing that it may reside here. Instead we found Tuskers that tended to be friendly. They told us that the Shield is in the possession of the leader of the Tundra walkers, tusker raiders on the plains. He has broken his raiders into multiple smaler units that roam the plains."
"Before we can begin hunting them down, the leader of the tuskers here asked us to deal with the undead on Burfell, and one that leads them. Since Burfell is sacred, and the undead are a blight upon the world, we were more than happy to agree. It also appears that the Tuskers here are planning upon leaving Burfell, which saves us the trouble of asking them to leave the sacred mountain. That about sums up the present situation."
Cutting right to the tactical side of things Garrett asks "Now, Heyoka and Rendal, what are your specialties and tendencies regarding combat? We like to try and have a competent plan going into battle."
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall Friday July 6th, 2007 10:37:30 AM
"Gnomes, Dwarves, Orcs, and now Elves," wonders Yngvar; "Who knew ice-front property would become so popular?"
Heyoka Friday July 6th, 2007 11:49:37 AM
Grimacing at the not so very tall being, Heyoka looks at the one who gave the cursory description.
"Let's see, I'm Heyoka. I travel with a bear. I have no idea who you are, and how you fight. Why should I tell you?"
Looking at the rest of the bloodthirsty group, she continues.
"Matter of fact, if it weren't for the wolfie here, I'd probably cut a wide swath around you, just to keep from getting anything that might travel on you."
"Not that it matters now. I have told you my name, and whom I travel with, and if you have any intelligence at all, you can deduct the rest. However, all I see area bunch of lumbering sword swingers, and not much of a leader among you. Except for the wolf, that is." She says the last sentance, boeing to the wolf that lead them there.
"Obviously you have me outnumbered. And since you seem to think we should be on speaking terms, how about giving information, instead of just asking for it, eh? It's not like I've seen a humanoid face for the last 20 years or so..."
Yanosh Ironfist Friday July 6th, 2007 12:40:53 PM
"Sword swinger?" The term perks the Dwarfs attention as the insult it was ment as. Striding confidently up to the Elf. Yanosh stands before her as tall as he can. Axe placed firmly against the ground handle down. Its wide blade covering his chest. "I am Yanosh Ironfist of the clan Ironfist. Dwarven warrior and defender of the village Ice Peaks. I am no simple 'Sword swinger'. I am a maker of armor and weapons and forger of things useful. And I am at your service if you dont fall from your high horse." Yanosh bows slightly with the last of his statment.
Yanosh (second post) Friday July 6th, 2007 12:48:31 PM
The Dwarfs ugly burn scarred face shows both anger and amusment as his statment is made. Rising from his bow Yanosh smooths out his red mustach and goatee. His green eyes sparkeling with mirth.
Nauthiz'Ull Friday July 6th, 2007 1:39:36 PM
A look of complete surprise jumps onto the deeply tanned yet youthful face of one of the tallest in the group. He looks into Heyoka, searching for the reasons for her conclusions.
"Hmmm. Interesting summary of our group there austlander; Completely wrong of course, but interesting none-the-less. Our leader-elect, Garrett Jax, has an open ear to anyone who proves themselves worthy of it. We have save these lands several times over already and seen more than your wild imagination could fathom. Bohdi Nackle here is one of the smartest the Vein has to offer and with either Aiden or myself in the lead there is not a prey nor a path that we could not find. This dwarf, Yanosh, has seen as much blood as there is snow and you will be thankful when he intercepts any would be assailants of yours."
Kneeling down next to his ulf companion, he rests his chin on top of the ulf's head and lets a low, gentle rumble escape from deep in his throat, all-the-while scratching behind her ear. "This one and her sister over there would have died for sure if it were not for us. They both choose to accompany us and out lives have become one; much, I suspect, as you are with Fisher."
He stands again and does not cease holding eye-contact while brushing the snow from the outermost layer of fur.
"So, austlander, I would hold your tongue of misjudged opinions. Your travels today are much safer than they would have been even a month ago because of my wunjos, so show some respect woman."
The lithe man's tone is neither aggressive or patronizing; he states everything with simple fact and ease, just as he would back in Ice Peak Village. There is no sign of malcontent or anger, just a simple explanation to clarify the austlander's confusion.
Aiden d20=11 d20=19 d20=4 Friday July 6th, 2007 4:01:27 PM
Aiden listens to the outburst of the elven female, and the various responses. Then he slowly turned. For any that were behind him, they could see that he was actually fighting against an emotion/reaction.
HOWEVER, it was not anger, but mirth and laughter. Putting a gloved hand to the edges of his eyes, he tried to wipe away the tears that were starting to form as he was trying to keep in whatever he had running inside of him.
Patting Garrett's shoulder, was about to say something, and then stopped. He then lowered his gaze, shook his head, still smiling, and continued towards the edge of the cave to take guard. His packsister moved towards his side.
Smiling, as if enjoying some strange humor or joke, Aiden took guard...Muttering to himself...
"And he calls me a barbarian..." all the while thinking of the irony of how pleasantly social the dwarf has been and the elf being the complete opposite.
(OOC: using ~ to show thoughts...I wasn't sure what the normal convention was for Wold)
~no wonder she was out there for 20 years...~ he THOUGHT to himself. Other than Garrett, Aiden couldn't think of anyone who carried a blade other than an axe or knife. ~snow blown female can't even tell the difference between axe and sword...and then asks for information a few moments after Garrett gives it to her.~
If/when he was relieved, Aiden moves to a corner of the cave and begins his communing with the spirits of the land, much as he had done before at the beginning of the adventure. He found it strange that, though not allying himself to a spirit, or deity, it was almost enjoyable to listen to them.
-------------- (ooc: I believe we're camping/guarding for the evening from the prior gm post? Also, is there a way you are going to write off Neco's character? Otherwise, I definitely see Aiden going hunting for her later (if she had not returned) suspecting the orks...)
spot: 11 + 8 = 19 listen: 19 + 8 = 27
(**+2 if ork, +4 if frozen undead** not included above)
Heyoka Friday July 6th, 2007 4:18:10 PM
Face burning, she mutters something, then shuffles away for a moment to contemplate this.
The bear, following her, moans at her in worry. After she stops, it snuggles into her again, and makes it's own rumbling sounds, as if it was talking.
Finally, she turns back to the group. Looks them over, then strides up to the man who was labelled Garret.
"Hi, I am Heyoka. Nice to meet you. I am a Druid, and listen to the animals of the earth cry out in pain. I don't normally fight. Or, at least I haven't in a long while. I fish. With Fisher here." She motions towards her bear.
"I accept that you believe that you gave me information about what is going on. But I think we're at a crossroads as to what exactly an explanation means."
"If I were to tell you that I have been solitary as much as possible for the last 20 years, that would be correct. However, I am not 20 years old. And it would tell you nothing of what it is I did do during those 20 years."
"I accept what you stated as a cursory overview, but is there a way I can persuade you to be a little more forthcoming? I am not all that knowledgable with what's been going on with the shorter-lived races. Actually," she shrugs, "I haven't been keeping up with my own family and clan."
"And the reason I came out of my solitude is because it was no longer peaceful. The lands around my Cave have been disturbed, and the animals resonate with their homes. So, they too became disturbed. I wish to resettle their homes and their peace. To do so, I acknowledge that I need help. I would appreciate help, and am willing to give any help I can on any other items on your agendas that need to be accomplished."
Thus stated, she takes a deep breath. Her face still burning, she steps back one step, so she is no longer in Garret's personal space, and awaits his response. Her eyes do not waver from his face.
Garrett Saturday July 7th, 2007 10:08:31 AM
Garrett frowns at Heyoka's initial insult to he and his friends, but says nothing as he appraises her. He nods to each in turn as his friends say their peace, but remains silent, observing the two newcomers.
After Heyoka returns and speaks her mind again, Garrett answers.
"Pleased to meet you Heyoka. I am Garrett Jax, Priest of Domi, and chosen leader of those assembled around you.
"I don't think I am quite sure what explanation you desire, for we have little to explain. And, a lengthy description of all we have done together would take much too long. But I believe we can help you with what it is you really want to know."
"Nature, and the Wold itself is being upset by the re-awakening of the Fey King. We met his servant who called himself Jack Frost. What can be done about it I do not know, but the Fey King is apparently making changes throughout the Wold. We know where Jack Frost last was, and he may still reside there if you wish to speak with him.
"As far as us shorter lived races go. We have all suffered the upheaval as well. Once the distant mountain exploded, it covered the land in ash and fire. We were forced to relocate our village, and the great tusker tribe was torn asunder. Their leader dead, and the tribe split into smaller factions."
"You would be free to travel with us, and we would welcome your assistance in our mission. I am sure we would be willing to help you as well, but that would depend upon what exactly would have to be done. At this time I do not believe either of us knows what that is, but perhaps in time and travel it will be made apparent."
"Would you like to accompany us?"
Yngvar the not so very tall Saturday July 7th, 2007 11:50:39 AM
"I swing an axe," Yngvar responds to Heyoka, "as any true warrior should."
Yngvar the not so very tall Saturday July 7th, 2007 11:55:42 AM
"And I'm no slouch," Yngvar adds to Nauthiz'Ull's commentary of his commanions. "Most times."
Yngvar the not so very tall Saturday July 7th, 2007 12:02:15 PM
Squinting with concentration at the conversation between Heyoka and Garrett, "Are we actually talking about something or just exchanging words?"
Giving up on following along Yngvar asks Garrett "Which watch is mine?"
Yanosh d20+2=16 d20+2=22 d20+1=19 Saturday July 7th, 2007 1:35:20 PM
Neatly laying out his bed roll Yanosh sits and opens his pack taking out his whetting stone. The stone slides smoothly over the edges of his Dwarven War Axe. Grinding soaftly in the night. After checking the edge Yanosh lays it down and does the same with his battle axe. When finished Yanosh lays down to rest before his turn at watch. Helmet and shield kept close to hand Yanosh sleeps in his armour.
On watch Yanosh takes the opening of the cave that leads out to the top. It is in his opinoin that if any undead come it will be from that direction and he will be the first to intecept them. Crouching in the shadows close to the rock. Yanosh stands gaurd untill relieved.
Hide(untrained) 16 Spot(Nat 20) 22 Listen 19
Rendal d20=8 Saturday July 7th, 2007 3:43:10 PM
Watching silently clearly not wanting to interrupt.
Rendal moves away from Heyoka.
I met up with the lovely Heyoka recently and look forward to adventure with your group.
I hope we can all grow to be great comrades.
If you all don't mind I would like to make a journal of our Journeys as we progress. Diplomacy 8+9= 17
Heyoka Saturday July 7th, 2007 4:00:24 PM
Looking at each person in turn, and possibly weighing them in her mind, she then turns to Garrett.
"If you would have me, I wold join you. If you take offense to my form of speech, so be it. I am not used to having to say anything other than the truth to animals. I am sure I will relearn the way of making pretty speeches as I go along, if I am with people long enough."
"Never let it be said I cannot learn something new, if it benefits me."
I See You Too Sunday July 8th, 2007 12:14:27 AM
After a slightly rocky introduction, Garrett seems to be able to shift the focus from hostility. Nauthiz`Ul and Aiden both taking a front role with near opposite reactions, thus allowing Garrett to take nice high road and keep his honor. It would seem for now that Heyoka the elven druid maiden, and Rendal the human bard would be working with the blessed of Ice Peak. The morning would lay out the task at hand. Find and eliminate the black scourge of undead that crept upon the face of Burfell. Given the Lute strings tied about the 2 former orcs wirists like tage, there was little doubht in the minds of Garrett, Aiden, Bohdi and Nauthiz`Ul of whom that enemy was. Skalti, former bard and childhood friend of the four of Ice Peak Village. He died during the right of adulthood and has now risen as a terrible and rather powerful creature of death. They met him once before ina deep hidden temple beneath Burfell itself and thought him destroyed for a time. But his body was missing as they left and now it seems he has returned.
As thoughts relive the memories of those days past, all keep coming back to the same place. A small cave tucked high on the mountain. A cave that long ago they huddled in for warmth and wondered if any of them would survive.
Deep in the night Yoanosh peers up the trail from the cave that leads higher into the mountain. For 60' the wold is black and white and all is revealed to the dwarf. The night is long and relatively boring. Well Almost. Yanosh looks into the black that is the cloudless night and then it happens. A form materializes out of the dark upon the path. Lithe and blown by the wind, the hair wildly flung back. Clothes torn and beaten, darker stains of blood, Yanosh knows, runs in patches all across them. The creatures mouth splits wider, far wider than possible for a human and his head fall to the side to an impossible angle. A rapier sheathed at his side and upon the opposite hip a lute. It riases a hand in almost mock salute to Yanosh and with a finger going to its lips as if to shush Yanosh for privacy of the meeting, It steps back ino the pitch of night, beyond the dwarf's darkvision.
Yanosh Sunday July 8th, 2007 11:00:54 AM "To arms!" The Dwarf calls out as he steps from his place beside the cave wall. Dwarven War Axe flashes in the night as he brings it and his shield into positon.
Sudden remembrance of the blizzard attack that sent him wondering into the night lost and alone. "So its you! You have made the misstake that will lead to your undoing." Yanosh prepares for the attack he knows will now come.
When asked Yanosh reveals what he has seen. "The creatures mouth splits wide, far wider than possible for a human and his head falls to the side at an impossible angle. A rapier sheathed at his side and upon the opposite hip a lute. It steped back ino the night, beyond my vision. It is the same creature that attacked the caravan I was with going to Zarnan City. The attack that sent me here."
Rendal Sunday July 8th, 2007 11:29:04 AM
Rendal wakes from his slumber upon hearing Yanosh yell to arms.
He is quick to his feet and grabs his Rapier from next to his head. Hastily downing his armor for the battle that is sure to come.
Looking questionably toward Yanosh, he hears his reply of what he saw. While dawning his armor he gets ready to grab his morningstar.
Thinking of a proper tune he says, " I am ready!"
Aiden d20=4 d20=1 Sunday July 8th, 2007 11:45:12 AM
Rolling over, and up onto his feet, Aiden shakes his head of the grogginess of the now past sleep. And here he was having a wonderful dream as was his wolf...
The frown that seemed (except for a few moments of respite such as during the initial conversation with Heyoka) to be a part of his features was even more of a glower. It must have been a very nice dream....
"Skalti" he hissed, as if saying a curse. Once up, he moved to take his normal position at the head of the group, readied for battle. Still shaking the cobwebs of sleep, he found it difficult to focus and see just where the dwarf was pointing.
Spot:4 + 8 = 12 Listen: 1 + 8 = 9
(OOC: does my favored enemy (the first one) roll over into this or no? Of course, it would not matter with the nat 1.)
Heyoka Sunday July 8th, 2007 12:05:14 PM
Readying herself for any attack, she looks at Fisher, who automatically goes out into the wilderness to Hunt the evilness seen (track by scent.)
Looking at the 3 people closest to her, she considers her options of spells.
2nd Level- -Flaming Sphere -Flame Blade -Barkskin (bonus for Wis score) 1st Level- -Goodberry -Cure Light Wounds -Magic Fang -Shilleagh (bonus for Wis score) 0 Level- -Flare -Guidance -Resistance -Detect Magic -Detect poison -Mending (bonus for Wis score)
Yngvar the not so very tall Sunday July 8th, 2007 12:28:11 PM
Roused from sleep, "OH! Not again!" Yngvar begins donning his armor as quickly as he can.
DM Notes Sunday July 8th, 2007 4:52:03 PM
DM Notes: For those oy you in or out of armor. The DM assumes anyone in Medium or greater armor does not sleep in the armor.
Sleeping in Armor A character who sleeps in medium or heavy armor is automatically fatigued the next day. He or she takes a -2 penalty on Strength and Dexterity and can't charge or run. Sleeping in light armor does not cause fatigue.
Don Hastily This column tells how long it takes to put the armor on in a hurry. The armor check penalty and armor bonus for hastily donned armor are each 1 point worse than normal.
Table: Donning Armor Armor Type Don Don Hastily Remove If the character has some help, cut this time in half. A single character doing nothing else can help one or two adjacent characters. Two characters can't help each other don armor at the same time. The wearer must have help to don this armor. Without help, it can be donned only hastily.
Shield (any).....Don 1 move action Padded, leather, hide, studded leather, or chain shirt.....Don 1 minute.....Don Hastily 5 rounds Breastplate, scale mail, chainmail, banded mail, or splint mail.....Don 4 minutes.....Don Hastily 1 minute Half-plate or full plate.....Don4 minutes.....Don Hastily 4 minutes
Someone can help and cut the Don armor time in half
Heyoka Sunday July 8th, 2007 5:34:36 PM
OOC: My apologies. I would be putting on my armor while I was reviewing my spell list in my head then.
Rendal Sunday July 8th, 2007 7:18:55 PM
"Let Me help you with your armor then you can help me with mine."
Rendal Stops putting on his armor and helps Aiden then Heyoka in turn.
While Ready to react to whatever comes in the cave.
Bohdi Nackle (AC 16, HP 33/33) and Squork (AC 16, HP 16/16) Sunday July 8th, 2007 10:21:29 PM
ooc: A thousand apologies for my prolonged silence! Crazy week! Should be getting back on track now.
Backtracking--Bohdi took the envelope from Rendal with stunned silence. The appearance of their new companions, and old friends, had clearly addled the gnome's wits. He agreed with uncharacteristic quiet to the group's encampment plans, and kept his thoughts to himself until the night. The envelope, and its contents, went unexamined into the gnome's pack for later, perhaps more private, examination.
Now, awakened by Yanosh's cry of warning, Bohdi got to his feet and drew his wand, ready as possible for trouble.
Aiden Monday July 9th, 2007 7:54:48 AM
Aiden, with the help of the other member of the group, hastily puts on his breastplate...
(OOC: thought with Endurance he could sleep in the breastplate without fatigue penalty? If this is the case, is it possible for him to sleep in it?)
DM you are correct, there are exceptions to my general assumptions rule, I'm relying on you guys to remind me of your characters in that regard. Aiden sleeps in his armor, np
Garrett Monday July 9th, 2007 9:04:13 AM
Garrett rolls out of his sleep, and moves to Yanosh's side. Already armored (endurance feat) he pulled his sword as he moved. Hearing Yanosh's description of the creature, he too knows it to be Skalti.
Thinking how he would like to nail the little bugger with a searing light, he quickly remembered the effects of rays from the last time they met, and calls it out to the group.
"Skalti is unaffected by ray spells everyone, they just bounce back, so be careful. The black looking undead do the same as I recall. Everyone stay close together, no rushing off into the darkness. He will likely send in his minions first."
Garrett looks out into the darkness and calls out "Come Skalti. Let us end this now."
Garrett stands next to Yanosh and waits and watches for the opponent while his companions begin to put on their armor.
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Nauthiz'Ull [AC19, HP46/46:Endure Elements] Monday July 9th, 2007 10:01:29 AM
Bolting upright at the warning bellowed by Yanosh, Nauth takes in his surroundings within a fraction of a second. Reaching into his magical quiver he retrieves the intricately carved bow that was once his father's and stands tall while stretching his back.
"We need a better place to fight; I will be useless as will Bohdi if we have to fight from the back of the cave. Ull'Heimdall may your bow fire as true as when it was in your hands."
Nauth quickly grabs the quiver and straps it on, so as not to be without ammunition. As he finishes hastily fastening the buckle he lets out a low whistle for his ulf to join him.
"Burfell should not bear this desecration-we must end this tonight." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ there is more that I would like to do but I assume that we are in something resembling combat rounds now so I will hold out on them now (I may be doing too much as it is). Also, Dan, I remember talking about wearing armor while sleeping when Nauth and Aiden hit 3rd level and got the Endurance feat...I assumed that Nauth would wear his at it is light armor anyways, but I will let you make the call on it as I did not specify.
Yngvar the not so very tall Monday July 9th, 2007 11:14:39 AM
"How do the undead always know when I'm sleeping?" Yngvar curses under his breath, fingers working quickly.
Yanosh---AC20---HP44/44 Monday July 9th, 2007 12:22:50 PM
Yanosh steps cautiously out of the cave entrance(5'). "Come, let this be finished now." Yanosh calls into the night.
Ooc I know I should wait for the DM post. sorry.
Calls of the Night Monday July 9th, 2007 12:36:35 PM
Just before....Bohdi wolrdlessly takes the envelope, about 2 inches thick, 14 inches wides and 20 inches long. A center seam holds it closed with a white nearly ice looking seal. A seal the gnome would recognize in his sleep, that of the Diviner guild of Zaran City. One of the most mysterious and therefore talked about guilds in all the city.
Yanosh calls the warning of attack and in his relaying of the cretaure in the darkness the group learns of more to the dwarf's past. Garrett, Aiden and Nauthiz`Ul bolt upright already fully armored, thier training in such allowing them to do so without feeling drained the next day.
Bohdi snaps awake and draws his wand and he gains his feet.
Heyoka and Ingvar begin to don thier armor in the small cave. Heyoka, a handle animal check is needed to send Fisher into the black of night. You did not have this information and I apologise. the group is in a small cave and in the direction where Skalti appeared is a 6-8 foot path against the ravine wall, vertical up 300' to the left and vertical down 70' to the right. I am going to hold off sending Fisher up the path.
Rendel starts to assist Ingvar and Heyoka.
The wolves and bear are all awake and snifing at the air. Plaintive whimpers coming from all three as they detect the foul stench of death.
. . A call comes back through the darkness, echoing off the high surrounding walls. "End it? End it murderers! Never shall I end it. I will take you, feed from you and make you mine! You shall rise as I did, left to die in the cold and now the very ice you left me too will be my vengence! And when I am done I will turn my pleasures upon your families." His voice breaks into a high cackle that rasies the hairs upon your neck, "Better I will send you to destroy them. Fitting Cleric of a dead god. Don't you think?" the voice echoes and sounds distant. Skalti is certainly more than 60' away, perhaps twice that far now.
Reminder note on Animals and the Attack Trick Attack (DC 20): The animal attacks apparent enemies. You may point to a particular creature that you wish the animal to attack, and it will comply if able. Normally, an animal will attack only humanoids, monstrous humanoids, giants, or other animals. Teaching an animal to attack all creatures (including such unnatural creatures as undead and aberrations) counts as two tricks.
Heyoka Monday July 9th, 2007 1:56:57 PM
After donning her armor, she pats the shoulder of Fisher.
"Worry not, my friend. We've never seen the likes of this before, and I shall not send you into the unknown, unable to run if necessary. Guard my back, or an others in this group, if something comes behind us, and warn me if it is of a deathly scent."
Nauthiz'Ull [AC19, HP46/46:Endure Elements] Monday July 9th, 2007 10:58:47 PM
With eyes flashing in every possible direction, Nauth's surroundings are weighed and he begins to act accordingly.
"Rendal! Heyoka! Stay clear of the touch of the Bevroren Doden, it is colder than ice and will sap your energies immensely. Bohdi, Garrett we need light and quickly. Find this blasted abomination so that we can dispatch it."
Nauth finishes his preparations but does not stop to help with other's armor. As he vies for position to get out of the cave and into a decent firing position the ranger slides a hand into one of his pouches and removes a vial with a tooth-shaped stopper and lets out a sharp whistle.
"Garrett, how in Gargul's realm does he keep coming back? What sort of twisted magic is that?"
Bohdi Nackle (AC 16, HP 33/33) and Squork (AC 16, HP 16/16) Monday July 9th, 2007 11:16:00 PM
Bohdi had raised his wand and seemed ready to fire, but Nauthiz'Ull's request for light made him hesitate. He nodded.
"Right," he agreed. "Bloody git was a sodding bore while he was alive, he's even worse now as undead. Globus illuminare proiijectionis!" the gnome chanted, tracing a rune in midair.
Instantly, the rune shaped itself into four bobbing, colored balls of light that shot out into the darkness and flew directly to the apparent location of the undead bard's voice.
Garrett Tuesday July 10th, 2007 7:45:33 AM
"I do not know how Nauth. The dark gods must have a hand in it. He has become a tool of evil."
"Stay here Wunjo's. He wants us to go chasing him. That is why he came close enough to be seen and then retreated. Let us stay and make him come to us. He wants us dead badly, and will come to us if we are patient."
Garrett waits to see what Bohdi's light illuminates before taking further action.
Rendal Tuesday July 10th, 2007 9:04:22 AM
"I agree lets wait here for him that way we will be more ready when he comes.
Question what is or who is the touch of the Bevroren Doden?"
He says while putting the lower armor thigh on Ingvar. "Phew we to learn this trick of wearing armor while we sleep."
Yngvar the not so very tall Tuesday July 10th, 2007 10:57:19 AM
"Thanks," Yngvar says at Rendal's aid. "Only sleep four hours as it is."
Looking towards the cave mouth, "They better not kill everything themselves again."
Aiden d20=20 d20=19 d20=13 Tuesday July 10th, 2007 3:11:12 PM
Aiden continued to guard at the front of the cave, taking the position. He held his double headed orken axe, ready to strike at whatever creature would come. But the creatures usually seemed to strike in darkness, and unfortunately, Aiden lacked the ability, or magicks, to see like Bohdi or Yanosh.
He strained with his eyes to search for the former bard, and whatever undead creatures he had aiding him.
Yanosh--AC20--HP44/44 d20+2=21 d20+1=8 Tuesday July 10th, 2007 3:34:16 PM
Yanosh slowly creeps forward another 5' looking for what ever undead that will be charging them. Knuckles crack as he grips his axe and shield. Softly the Dwarven Warrior begins to hum.
Spot=21 listen=8
Not Biting Tuesday July 10th, 2007 6:48:17 PM
Nauthiz`Ul gives warning that comes with experience, as does Garrett with combating the Frozen Dead also called Bevroren Doden. Nauthiz`Ul then moves to a firing position with his bow and takes out a potion.
None give to the bait of moving up the narrow path or in engaging in dialogue with the creature that once was Skalti the bard of Ice Peak. Bohdi casts a spell and small magical orbs race into the darkness. 120 away stands Skalti, a grin still splitting his face. He waves in greeting to the group.
Rendel continues to assit Ingvar and Heyoka with thier armor donning.
"Cowards! But I am without age now, I can wait. You must leave your little hole someday!" The creature screams and jumps up and down. small rocks fall from the ledge as he prances on it. Then he turns and moves quickly further up the narrow ravine path. Bohdi paces him with the lights until they wink out at 150' from the party. Bohdi you can stop them short to retain the lights at 150' if you wish
Skalti moves into the darkness and rapidly leaves sight.
Heyoka Tuesday July 10th, 2007 6:53:50 PM
Struggling to put her armor on, she watches what unfolds outside the cave. As it leaves the area of lights, Heyoka sidles over to the mage, and whispers to him.
"Next time he comes into the area, have everyone close their eyes. I'm going to Flare him, so we can get the drop on him."
Bohdi Nackle (AC 20, HP 33/33) and Squork (AC 20, HP 16/16) 3d4(3+1+4)+3=11 Wednesday July 11th, 2007 12:06:40 AM
Pursing his lips and looking over at the druidess Heyoka, Bohdi pondered. He gestured, and, with a thought, his lights hovered at 150' from the party, awaiting Skalti's return.
"Flare?" he queried. "Begging your pardon, but I think you'll find you've underestimated our old friend Skalti. Don't think a Flare spell will do much to slow him down. In fact, I think I tried that one myself, the last time we met ...." Bohdi mused for a moment, then shrugged.
He paused long enough to trace another rune in the air, which glowed bluish-white before wrapping itself around him and Squork before vanishing. (Cast: Mage Armor)
"No, I'm afraid old Skalti out there will respond best to good old fashioned force spells. Anything that'll blast the wretched undead, such as he is--Searing Light, that sort of thing--or, short of that, just a handy Magic Missile or two." He patted his wand against his open palm in an expression of readiness, and peered out into the darkness.
(DM, recall that elves and gnomes have extended low-light vision! If Bohdi can see Skalti, even dimly--including stepping forward 20' and moving the Dancing Lights accordingly--then ignore the Mage Armor this round. Instead, he'll cast Magic Missile. On the off-chance that applies, I've rolled damage--would be 11 HP.)
I did take into account low light vision, Skalto moved well out of your vision from the dancing lights spell. but as always reminding me is a good theing. :)
Garrett Wednesday July 11th, 2007 8:49:39 AM
"He does not wish to face us yet. He will wait until he has the advantage, and he knows that that is not now. Let us return to the cave and try and get some sleep. It may be a long day tomorrow. with some luck, we can find him in the daylight, or find his lair."
"The touch of these frozen dead cause your body to feel frozen and cold, draining part of your lifeblood away."
Garrett questions Bohdi quickly. "Wunjo, didn't rays like searing light reflect off of him last time we faced? I seem to remember you throwing rays at him that bounced back or off."
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall Wednesday July 11th, 2007 10:13:50 AM
Still racing to don his armor, "What? No!" Yngvar is dismayed at Garrett's suggestion to avoid a fight.
Nauthiz'Ull Wednesday July 11th, 2007 11:52:47 AM
Stopping abruptly as Garrett mentions the halt Nauth turns to him and looks thoughtfully upon his face. He nods silently, although with a creased brow before pulling back his hood to look upon the wunjo's leader.
"I can track him." Before continuing Nauth raises a hand to hold off any objections.
"Here me out first. I have a potion that will allow my eyes to pierce the darkness, much like Bohdi or the dwarves. Look above us; Skalti could be setting a trap that will fall upon us in our sleep. I can find his lair, I can find find out his plans."
Nauth stows his bow into one of the magical compartments of his quiver and waits for answers from those whose opinions matter to him.
Garrett Wednesday July 11th, 2007 12:41:47 PM
"What you say is true Nauth, and I feel your pain as well Yngvar. I want nothing more to Annihilate Skalti as well. But think it through. He and all his minions can see well in the darkness, and only a few of us can. How long will your potion last Nauth.
"We need sleep and he doesn't. If we follow after him all night, we may find ourselves in a battle where we are exhausted to begin it."
"I know you wish to follow him in the darkness Nauth but it is too dangerous. Do not forget that his dark power allowed him to cast spells as well, and they were pretty potent. He may expect such a thing. You have just returned wunjo, and I would not have you leave again so soon. I have always believed in not splitting up, because it is the one that separates from the herd that the wolves bring down."
"Let us track him in the morning, when all our senses and abilities are at there best. We will have Sqourk to tell us what lays ahead. Besides, we likely already know where they are. Remember the storms upon Burfell that seemed to stay put? How likely is it that the spirit of the mountain objects to those creatures on it's sacred self, and seeks to drive them off?"
"But you are right about the fiend thinking about burying us alive in this cave. That is something he may do."
Garrett thinks for a few moments. "Nauth, Aiden, anyone? Do you remember the landscape above this cave? Is it possible that he could set off some sort of avalanche or rock slide to bury us? If so we will have to move and investigate. If not, we should stay put." (looking for a check by someone with the right skill to determine if that is a possibility.)
Yanosh Wednesday July 11th, 2007 12:47:20 PM
Striding up to Nauth, Yanosh stands beside him. "You'll not be rushing off to face that without me Nauth. Youll need back up for sure."
Yanosh refuses to stay behind. "I know I do not move as silently as you can but what noise I make may draw attention from you so you may get closer. One must never rush into battle with out his friends." Yanosh remembers the folly of his misstake out on the open tundra.
Rendal Wednesday July 11th, 2007 2:12:01 PM
While helping Yngvar put on the back of his chest peace Rendal whistles "tough call....
Knowing where you enemy is helps a lot. Though he obviously wants us to leave which means he has a trap of some sort. Maybe the trap is magical in nature. On the other hand even if we don't move he has more time to set up more traps.
I think it is best to move and do something he would never expect you to do. For example move away from him while sending something to monitor him. For example cast a spell or animal or something to follow him."
Smiling Rendal says, "It's your guys call but staying here and sleeping my gut tells me is not a good idea. I mean could you even sleep knowing he is out there?" "Would it be a restful sleep? Though fighting him at dawn would be best." Humming Rendal attaches another piece of Yngvar armor.
"Well dawn does have some historical significance against undead."
Aiden d20=20 Thursday July 12th, 2007 4:24:57 AM
Aiden shook his head once he heard Nauth'iz and Yanosh's urgency to strike at the creature. "No..." as he stared out into the darkness.
"He has the field and the night...is our magic fully replenished?" The last he looked over towards Bohdi (and the other spellcasters (that he knows of aka Garrett)).
"No...I do not think it would be wise at all..."
Rubbing his chin at Garrett's and Rendal's questions, trying to think back to the ground/trails above. "The cave is a dangerous place to rest now that he knows of our presence. Unfortunately, I would need light and" as he looked at Yanosh, "a master of stone to tell whether we are momentarily safe from Skaldi or any of the other creatures like him..."
(OOC: I honestly don't remember the description of the trail/ground above the cave to be honest...)
knowledge (geography): nat 20 + 2 (survival synergy) + 9 = 31 to figure out whether a cave in could be set up above us...
CDM Jerry Thursday July 12th, 2007 10:01:18 AM
I need the posting report please. Post it here for last week and send me a copy via email please. ;)
Thanks!
Night Time Thursday July 12th, 2007 10:09:52 AM
The night is black and the voice of Skalti fades across the vale. The group falls into discussion of going after him now or waiting and then to if now even the cave is safe to stay in. Is there a way to trigger a deadly avalanche from above. It is possible. There is a great deal of mountain in that direction. Is it likely, that is a harder question. No one has seen really what is up there. The cliffs extend several hundred feet up, but what lies atop of them is unknown. The cave is hard natural rock. Yanosh, Aiden and Heyoka can all testify to that. The chance any avalanche would casue it to collapse is terribly small. Bury an exit or two? Possible.
Garrett lays out the challenges. Skalti did indeed possess magical powers last they faced. He can see in dark and does not tire and is obviously trying to bait the group to go fight him. All bad things.
The counter points are also brought up. Skalit will have more time and he knows where the group is. Is Resting here a good idea?
Decisions weigh heavily upon them all. Ingvar and Heyoka finally get thier armor on. It is well into the third watch, but dawn is several hours away still. It could well be a very long remainder of the night.
Yngvar the not so very tall Thursday July 12th, 2007 10:14:37 AM
"Thanks Rendal, I can take it from here," Yngvar says
"How am I ever going to die gloriously if I never even get the chance to battle anything?" the pale youth mumbles to himself.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+5=23 d20+10=18 Thursday July 12th, 2007 11:34:55 AM
The ranger halts and looks over his wunjos all-the-while digesting their words. Scrunching his brow and sucking his teeth, Nauth's shoulders slump slightly.
"Well, if we are staying then I suggest you all strip your armor and get to sleep. The Vein, as some of you know, will begin to sap your strength as soon as we begin to walk so you will need all of your energy. I will take the watch now. Bohdi, would you join me or do you need more sleep?"
The ranger keeps his hood down but stows his bow for the time being. He asks Bohdi to keep the lights up for a moment while he heads out to the tracks of the former bard. Kneeling close to the tracks he runs a bare hand over the imprints, studying them intently and committing them to memory. He lets out a low whistle for his companion to come over and points to the tracks for her to smell and remember as well.
"We will rid the Vein of Skalti soon enough girl. You will not have to bear his stench much longer."
If there are no more interruptions As dawn breaks Nauth begins to look out upon the sky and the beautiful colors that glaze it. He looks out upon Burfell itself, seeing and sensing the magical majesty that exudes from it and nods his understanding to the powers it possesses.
Allowing the rest of the group a bit of extra sleep time to make up for what was lost from Skalti's appearance, Nauth begins his morning ritual of asking the Vein for the power to protect himself from its icy grasp. As he feels the gnawing cold start to tear its way through the magical barrier that Nauth summoned the day before, the ranger calls upon the same enveloping magics to protect him, and his girl, once more.
Returning to the tracks that lead back out along the ledge, the ranger takes on his more primal appearance as he decides that the hunt is almost at hand. He licks his lips, pulls back his shoulders and begins to pace back and forth by the footprints of the now-prey Bevroren Doden. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Profession [hunter]- 23 (studying and committing the tracks to memory) Survival- 18 (determining weather) perhaps more rolls coming later depending on other's posts
Cast: Endure Elements upon self
Posting Report Thursday July 12th, 2007 1:57:19 PM
Posting Report for Ice Vein Week of July 1 - July 5 ............................M..T..W..Th.F DM-Daniel K........x...x...+...+...+ Bohdi-Kup............x...o...o...o...o Garrett-Chris.........+...x...+...x...x Aiden-Paul............x...x...x...o...x Neco-James..........+...+...+..+...+ Yanosh-Edd..........x...x...x...o...x Yngvar-Dru...........o...x...x...o...x Heyoka-Shelia......o...x...o...x...x Nauthiz'Ull-Drew...x...x...x...x...x Rendal-???............o...x...o...x...x
x = post o = no post * = substitute post - = skipped post (no DM post) + = see notes Notes: --"Days" begin with DM post on that day and continue until following DM post. This sometimes results in some "bistro math" when player posts count for the prior day. Weekend posts count for Fridays. --DM allowed players to chat starting on Wed. and going through the weekend to get acquainted and work out personalities. --Recieved word on Neco, Paul will need to be dropping out. --Garrett was gone all week and his sub missed Monday and Wednesday posts. --Kup has a severe work-load at the moment and has been unable to post for most of the week. He will be back to consistent very soon.
Yanosh Thursday July 12th, 2007 3:16:55 PM
"Bohdi, go to sleep. I'll cover your watch for you."
At dawn Yanosh walks toward Nauth but doesnt get to close. Staring out over the vale and the mountain side Yanosh takes in the beauty of the place.
Garrett Thursday July 12th, 2007 6:47:56 PM
"let us rest this night, and see what the dawn brings. Come daylight, we shall begin the hunt."
Memorized Spells: 0 lvl: Detect Magic, Cure Minor, Light X2, Mending 1st lvl: Magic Weapon(d), Endure Elements X2(cast X2), Detect evil, Shield of Faith 2nd lvl: Spiritual Weapon(d), Hold Person x2, Bulls strength 3rd lvl: Magic Vestment(d), Searing Light X2
Yngvar the not so very tall Friday July 13th, 2007 8:48:57 AM
Having gotten his four hours Yngvar spends the remains of the night grumbling about another missed opportunity.
Rendal Friday July 13th, 2007 9:49:24 AM
"No prblem Yngvar.. Looks like we might go back to bed though."
Rendal waits for the group to decide on staying the night then goes back to sleep.
"See you in the morning. Good night all."
Aiden d20=16 d20=1 d20=3 d20=8 d20=4 d20=2 d20=17 Friday July 13th, 2007 9:59:18 AM
Aiden continued to focus his thoughts through the rest of the evening. This focus (aka meditation) was what had brought him to his perceived insanity earlier (being able to speak/understand his packsister), but also bringing some clarity as to the situation (once he understood just what it was).
However, as the day began anew, he let Nauth'iz take the lead as tracker, serving to check what he discovers in terms of the tracks.
Survival (track): 16 + 9 + 4 (favored enemy) = 29
Listen: 1 + 8 = 10 Spot: 3 + 8 = 11
Yanosh Friday July 13th, 2007 3:08:04 PM
As the party starts to move out the next morning Yanosh takes his normal place in line.
(OoC I need a sub for Yanosh for July 18, 19 & 20 thats Wed, Thurs & Fri next week.)
I will take Yanosh Edd, just send me his updated CS and any RPIng/personality hints that you want me to fulfill. -Drew
Bohdi Nackle Friday July 13th, 2007 3:38:37 PM
Bohdi nodded his thanks at the offers of extra rest. But before retiring, he observed: "I don't need to be reminding all of you to be on extra special watch at both exits to the cave now, do I? Don't want that wight blocking our ways out. And don't think that you've got everything covered at the entrances, either--I've heard of undead spirits that can pass through solid rock. We mustn't assume anything."
On that grim note, Bohdi turned to Garrett and Heyoka. "Heyoka, Garrett raised a good point a few minutes ago. Skalti and some of the other undead creatures we've encountered seem to reflect Scorching Ray spells back on their casters. In all my studies, I've never heard of such a thing before--at least, not with that type of spell--but it does raise a caution. We still don't know what it was that caused the reflection--was it because the spell was a ray, which bounces from their hides? Or is it because it's fire-based, and something about the Vein-undead's ice magic repels it? Either way, we have to be cautious about which spells we use against Skalti and his ilk."
With that, yet further, grim note, Bohdi yawned, excused himself, and went to bed.
Yngvar the not so very tall Monday July 16th, 2007 7:19:15 PM
As dawn breaks Yngvar wonders who they would make friends with today.
Rendal Monday July 16th, 2007 8:46:06 PM
Upon waking Rendal stretches and starts to yawn when a rumble hits hit midsection.
"Ah excuse me. I seem to be a bit hungry. Anyone start some grub?"
With a jovial note and a light hum Rendal sings a note or two to raise the spirits of his comrades from the oppression of the night of the evil bard. "Gladly the night is gone and there is work to be done in the light my friends.
Here and yawn we strive to right the wrong and see the dawn. Together we shall crush that evil spawn."
Yngvar the not so very tall Tuesday July 17th, 2007 11:25:21 AM
"Sorry Rendal, I don't eat," Yngvar responds. "But I like your spirit, on to a glorious death!"
A New Day d20+14=33 Tuesday July 17th, 2007 11:54:31 AM
The night is long and while Skalti does not visit any of the more destructive ideas the party entertained shortly after he made his precense known. He does, from some far off location saranade the group with a song of death, torture and cruel demise. Rendal, notes, that his playing, while disturbing and chilling to the bone, is also esquisite. The haunting melody and impossible chords for the mortal voice to produce float and linger across the mountainside and seem to echo from multiple directions and sometimes to simply not echo at all.
Sleep is plagued by visions and dreams of a cold death. Needles dance across your arms and the blood pulls back to the central core in a last effort to support life. It is of no use and soon the world falls to a muffled black haze and then nothing is discernable but your own heartbeat. Then, even that sound fades into the black. Morning comes all too soon, but the despite the disturbing dreams of the night, none are the worse for wear physically.
The group essentially awakens as a unit, morning preparations and ceremonies are observed by all.[ All Spell casters need to list spells, Thanks]
Nauthiz`Ull moves out with his wolf to investigate where Skalti had stood the previous night. There are some signs, but not many as the ledge is generally free of snow. The wolf sniffs about and whines in displeasure. Bohdi with the reminder from Garrett talks to Heyoka on the observed nature of some magic when wielded against Bevrorene Doden. That of the spell being fully reflected to the caster. So far it has only been first hand observed in the use of Searing Light and Scorching Ray, but there may be others.
Eventually the party exits and takes up the 3 hour hike along the vale rim to the initial entry they made several days ago. A small near crack like ravine that sits over 300' up from the vale floor. The majesty of the granite sheer walls with the sun splaying over them is not lost on many of the group. The impression power and graduer would dwarf even the mightiest of kings in thier majestic halls.
Down the ravine the onto the mountainside the group proceeds. Nauthiz`Ull leading with his wolf and Aiden and his own companion just behind. Skalti's shuffled walk through the snow is obvious and no skill at all would be required to follow him. Where the two rangers' skills do come to account is in a hunch backed by some evidence. Nauthiz`Ull suspects and Aiden is positive, that the trail they follow currently, is deliberately set and blazes in all is obvious glory to the weatern slopes of the mountain and into the suspected supernatural strom that ravages that side of the mountain.
Yanosh Tuesday July 17th, 2007 2:59:36 PM
Trudging along behind Aiden and nauth Yanosh cann't heelp but feel regret for leaving behind Neco. Looking over his shoulder a few times Yanosh hopes to catch a glimps of her.
Fallowing the trail to the west Yanosh flexes his grip on his axe and shield, keeping his hands limber. Softly the scarred Warrior starts to sing a little tune.
"Axes and Swords Maces and Spears Off we go Hunting our fears."
Yanosh Tuesday July 17th, 2007 3:01:24 PM
OoC--See ya'll on monday. I'm off for training.
Garrett Tuesday July 17th, 2007 7:36:11 PM
"As I suspected, We head for the storm. We are likely being led into a trap. Bohdi, can you have Squork take an airborne look every now and then? I would like to know what lays ahead."
"Either way, our path is laid before us."
Garrett continues on, following the lead of the Rangers.
(I will do my spells next post, I don't have the list at work.)
Heyoka Tuesday July 17th, 2007 8:47:28 PM
Stretching out her stiff muscles, Heyoka stands, and after a slow look around at what everyone's doing, puts her armor on as quickly as possible without missing anything.
Looking at Fisher, who yawns, she wrinkles her nose at his breathm and says something in Elvish to him. Anyone listening would think it most likely that she's complaining about his fishy breath.
After getting her armor on, she focuses on her palm, and mumbles a bit of garbled words. Suddenly, there are over a dozen berries in her hand. She takes one, gives one to the bear, who whines, then accepts it. After eating hers, she offers them to anyone who would like one.
Rendal Wednesday July 18th, 2007 2:04:56 AM
Rendal pulls out his lute to the music Yanosh is singing.
Keeping beat with his tune and after a few renditions Rendal starts to sing with Yanosh in counter melody.
Nauthiz'Ull d20+12=21 d20+12=16 d20+12=32 d20+9=24 d20+10=23 Wednesday July 18th, 2007 4:03:14 AM
As the group finds its way up to the top and is able to look upon the storm that is corrupting the mighty Burefell, Nauth kneels, closes his eyes and begins to search his past for anything that could be related to such an event. With his eyes still closed he begins to tune out everything; his wunjos breathing and the shifting of their equipment, the growls and nervous pawing of the animals. He tries to soar into the storm, picking up the nuances of what it truly is.
After a few moments he stands, stretches his back with a twist and takes a look behind the group to ensure that there are no followers or surprises.
"We need some sort of plan before we approach this storm. Garrett, Bohdi, Heyoka, could this be a storm created by the power of the mountain to try and contain the evil? or is it of Skalti's or something else's doing. Perhaps we should scout the edges of the storm before or if we decide to enter it. That should be our last course of action."
As he listens to his wunjos ideas and advice, Natuh begins to arc out from the group in a semi-circle, scouring the ground for signs of any other tracks that may be present. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ know:nature (remembering anything similar to the storm) - 24 listen - 23 spot (observing the 'storm')- 21 spot (checking behind us) - 16 spot (look for any tracks other than Skalti's) - NAT20 - 32
Yanosh [sub Drew] Wednesday July 18th, 2007 8:09:45 AM
The tail end of the dwarf's concealing scarf flutter in the wind behind his head and the dwarf grumbles.
"Looks like there could be much to kill in there, especially if that damned bevroren doden has friends."
Yanosh grips his axe tightly and a creaking sound can be heard; was it the frozen leather gripping or the muscles in his forearms expanding?
"We need to stick together. I recall what happens if we get separated and I will not allow that to happen to any of you."
ooc- sorry to Edd and all of you for this limited post; I am at work with no sheet and 0 hours of sleep so this is the extent of it today.
Aiden d20=9 d20=14 d20=19 d20=5 Wednesday July 18th, 2007 9:48:19 AM
Aiden turned and saw the singing companions. ~great...now we shall bring more to us beyond the storm...~ But he held his tongue, especially considering that it was not too long ago that he had sung.
Looking upwards towards the storm, Aiden frowned at the sight. "Not good..."
Turning towards the group, "do any of you have magicks that can make it easier to strike a foe? Between the rain (or snow) and wind, it will be difficult to see at points..."
spot (anything flying in storm...what the heck, just saw LoTR recently): 9 + 8 = 17
spot (mountain): 14 + 8 = 22
listen: 19 + 8 = 27
survival (ooc: is it possible to use this to see if this is a 'natural' storm?): 5 + 9 = 14
ooc: additional question...is the sacred bonus +2 still in play for this journey or no?
Yngvar the not so very tall Wednesday July 18th, 2007 10:35:31 AM
The gaunt warrior's face is lit with anticipation of conflict.
LOG ON