Dahlia (sub) Thursday June 28th, 2007 8:34:03 PM
She is lead away by the others as they leave. She looks back over her shoulder once, as if the dead would be following them somehow. She longs for the days of gems a jewels scattered on a cavern floor again. She sighs deeply and settles on the present.
Mordrid Thursday June 28th, 2007 9:14:58 PM
As the group exits the shadowlands, Mordrid notes aloud, "Gargul has lost control of his domain. Souls are leaving against his will. The gods have lost control."
"Never again will I underestimate the power of mortals."
At some point, Mordrid will find a moment with Ve. "Jancasis called on me to stop you back there. Just thought you should know."
Corialote and Amarth Thursday June 28th, 2007 9:28:36 PM
Cori watches the procession of souls as they continue to pass through the now opened gates. With spells already being cast she feels no reason to do any herself.
She does take the time to swap out the adamantine rapier for her old one. It now feels as light as a feather in her hands and the magical humm is back. This brings a smile to her face and she goes about checking over her other gear as well.
Amarth, perches still upon her shoulder, seems more relaxes and he once again nuzzles the cheek of his Mistress. "We seem to have an almost impossible task before us." To this Cori just smiles and shrugs. "Were would be the fun if it was too easy." She waits to see what will be learned and what their next move should be.
Ve Mundr Thursday June 28th, 2007 10:03:43 PM
Ve reports what his divination reveals with more than just a touch of concern on his face. "The fact that it showed me all of that as Crow, would mean all of those pieces were him and that means he lives somehow farctured."
"I wonder if Crow somehow pushed pieces of himself into the constructs? It did not show me Config, but Config is beyond the control, perhaps having purged himself of Crow?"
To Mordrid he nods an understanding, there was much in the rangers past Ve did not know, but know he knew a little more. Ve responds calmly and friendly to him, "I was just moving to Dahlia, perhaps too aggressively for his liking, but striking at Marteaus or Jancasis had not entered my mind." He adds after a small pause and a smile, "Well of course until Domi seemed inclined. Even then my foremost thought was our friend Dahlia. I may be bit exhuberant in my desires to put evil down Mordrid, but I am a man who knows his limits." he finishes with a slight chuckle and gives mordrid a freindly pat to the shoulder.
Looking to Valdor, "To the south slopes of Mount Bone then?"
Valdor Thursday June 28th, 2007 11:53:23 PM
Valdor watches his brother and listens in. He says,"I noticed you chose a side, and while I would have expected what you did, I am eternally grateful. I thought I was a dead man back there. And Ve, it DID cross my mind. They could probably read my mind or at least my intentions. If Domi or Alemi had but nodded, I'd probably be in little pieces right now from trying.
And yes, I think the Southern slopes of Mount Bone sounds as good as anywhere else. How far is it on foot? We could always teleport."
He waits for everyone to get together and makes sure the halflings and Config are there, as well. He caught Alemi's comment to Nick, but didn't understand it. He says,"Father Nick, is there anything I can do to help you in this matter, my friend? Any more monsters in your dreams to destroy?" He's grinning when he says it, but his eyes show much concern.
Onrad Friday June 29th, 2007 1:09:42 AM
Onrad gets up. But all this is just too much to handle and he's amazed that the others just take it in and move on.
He begins stretching. That always was a calming thing for him.
Eventually he looks at Valdor and simply says, "Let's go."
Dahlia (sub) Friday June 29th, 2007 11:06:25 AM
The rogue slides her hand through Ve's and wraps her arms around his. In a coy, damsel in distress manner, "My hero", eyes blinking.
She waits for the others to decide how they transport themselves.
Jus Friday June 29th, 2007 4:37:08 PM
Ironic, that Jus found comfort from his own troubles with Nick, and Nick may have troubles of his own. Not knowing what else to do, Jus squeezes Father Nicholas' shoulder as the group leaves.
"Well, little one," Jus says to Gimp, not knowing his name. "Are you to follow us or stay here with Gargul? Whichever you decide, I thank you for your words and the comfort of your weight." Few may understand Jus' last comment, but Gimp's few moments on Jus' shoulder did bring back memories of simpler times.
Jus listens to the others as they head out. When they reach Config, Jus asks, "are you still with us? Do you feel any different?"
Ve Mundr Saturday June 30th, 2007 3:24:54 PM
Ve looks to Onrad and decides he has seen that look before, "You either just roll with it, or curl up in a ball trying to sort it all out and go mad." Dahlia takes him a bit by surprise and thus the normally unshakable protector uncharateristically just blurts out, "Just doing my job ma`am."
Corialote and Amarth Saturday June 30th, 2007 8:30:31 PM
Cori stands ready to leave with the rest, though with the splintering of Crow...the task does seem to have gotten a lot harder. "So he may have fed alittle of himself into each constuct that he made...that should make taking him back a whole lot harder." Just finding the original might not be enough to solve the problem and now it seems they will have to see about getting all the pieces of Crow back together.
Looking to Valdor she nods her head that she is ready when he is for the teleportation. She would not attemtp this one herself as she is not that familiar with the location.
Valdor Sunday July 1st, 2007 11:48:18 PM
Valdor chuckles at Dahlia's effect on Ve. He says,"She has a way of unnerving a man. So, do we need to find all of the pieces of our quarry first, or go straight to the source?"
Posting Report for Monday July 2nd, 2007 7:49:28 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons For the week on June 25,2007
Adm Ceil _ Tha Old Dragons are still going strong.
Dahlia (sub) Monday July 2nd, 2007 11:30:47 AM
Acting all sweet and innocent, she jumps straight up in the air and taps her protector on the back of the neck. "The same would have happened to Jan and her whipping boy if they had tried anything on me." Dahlia is not one to need to be protected, but it was nice to see in any case. She waits for the others patiently. The scenery, although, is anything but beautiful, it is a rare enough sight to catch ones attention while present.
Nick Monday July 2nd, 2007 12:26:03 PM
Still stunned, Nick nods at Jus as they leave the Shadowlands and head back into the living Wold. To Valdor he says "I think Alemi just told me that this - " he gestures toward his bald head and the wrinkles and liver spots on his skin, " - is all in my head. And I haven't the first idea how to deal with it."
The cleric sounds baffled, but positive.
"I'm all for going to the south slope of the mountain," he adds. "And might I suggest caution. We don't know what we will find."
DM Jan Monday July 2nd, 2007 12:58:43 PM
The creature named Gimp stays on Jus's shoulder, right to the 'gate'. "I'd like to come with you. It sounds exciting," it says, "but the Lands of Unrest are not for the faint of heart, and Gargul will need me. Go out, all of you. Embrace life." Gimp leaps off the elf's shoulder and returns to the dais, where Gargul looks out toward the lake.
Back in the land of the living -
"This metal casing feels stronger, and has more energy," the elemental inside the construct tells Jus, "and I am still in control of it." It's head moves this way and that, as Crow is discussed, following the conversation. "All golems have a wish to be near Crow. They make images, which they stare at," it says. "The images contain life."
As for distance, for most of the Platinums, knowlege of the local geography will be remembered. They had been here, after all, on more than one occasion. Mount Bone from Dirt City - days of hiking on foot, over rough, ankle-breaking terrain; teleport - instant.
Little Tommy is biting his nails. "Mount Bone. We were told never to go to Mount Bone. Bad magic underground, or somesuch." His brother gives him a nudge. "Stop it. You're being soft."
Suddenly, there is movement, outside, beyond the blown-open doors. A small crowd of people, gathering, their faces filthy, their clothes torn, peering in astonishment toward this armour-clad and grandly dressed group of adventurers the likes of whom they'd never seen before. For the Wold had been awakened, and the ensuing jolt had been more than enough to bring folk out from their hidey-holes.
((OOC - I'll play it by ear during the holiday week, and yes, I know I'm British, but I'm taking Wednesday off ;) ))
Valdor Monday July 2nd, 2007 11:42:43 PM
Valdor looks at Nick, puzzled, and asks,"Do you not believe your God? Where is your faith that I have witnessed for so long? He can bring the dead back to life through your belief that he will. You can do miracles in his name. Why is it so hard to believe he can reverse the age you have shown recently? You have been a source of strength for this group and now your own body needs that faith!"
Seeing the people and having his magic back, the large warrior smiles and strides out into the street. He looks around and says with a booming voice of authority,"Today is a day you should always remember. We have brought back the use of magic and have brought you the Gods who have been asleep for so long due to the people of this time's lack of faith! They are real and should be worshipped, or at least respected. They can give food on the table, life, and even power!
Their names are Alemi, the God of Justice. Domi, the god of Courage and strength, and Gargul, the God of the Dead. This building is one of Gargul's temple. These men(he motions to Nick and Ve) are their clerics...their most devout followers who do their will. You can see their strength of character and know that I tell the truth. These(he motions to Cori and Nonam), can weave magic and perform amazing tasks. They can create, or they can destroy. These people are the result of years of dedication to understanding that which you have not had because of one man. His name is Crow.
Live your lives right, believe and trust in these Gods, and your lives and your children's lives will be the better for it! We are the Platinum Dragons and we are here for your freedom!"
Mordrid Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 12:27:42 AM
The ranger trods out of the land of dead, meaning to talk to Valdor; but all the people about are a pleasant suprise.
Standing just behind Valdor's right shoulder, Mordid smiles as his leader resolves his speech;soflty saying(with all due conviction), "well spoken my brother."
"You know Valdor... most of us have been dead now for many years." The ranger's wrinkled eyes lift higher following this spirited jab.
Turning and raising his voice for the party to hear, "There is no need to hunt down all the aspects of Crow." The ranger can be so smug when he feels he is right. His past as a tracker/hunter/assassin pushes this point further.
"It is simple. We lay seige upon Crow's avatar, and his aspects will return to protect. As it stands... we aren't looking for Crow anyway. He is a thrall. I wouldn't be suprised if something hasn't got him trapped in a cocoon somewhere."
Dahlia (sub) d20+30=45 d20+17=36 Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 1:20:43 PM
The rogue steps through and for a moment is disoriented, but it quickly clears as the crowd gives her renewed strength. She will let the others do the talking, but her mind is still set on the ones Gargul warned her about. They may well be here also.
Spot: 45 for suspicious persons in the group. Sense Motive: 36 on anyone she thinks is Suspicious ooc: Not sure if the spot was necessary for the sense motive or not.
(ooc: I am back Buzz, thanks alot you did very well.)
Ve Mundr Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 5:22:04 PM
Ve gives a deep nod as Valdor mentions him. he could be amongst these people for a fortnight, but there was pressing business. He cast a glance to Father Nick, "We should do something for them, but I do not want to take the spotlight too much. Also assuming we suceed, this all never happens right?"
Ve looks unsire on the last statement. Gargul, Alemi and Domi all seemed to imply that this Wold would indeed continue regardless of thier success or not. The thought started to lead Ve towards multiple time lines and such. Something that while he knew of the basic theories he certainly had never studied them in depth. Perhaps Cori..."Cori, could this time line continue regardless and therefore need us as well?"
With that thought, regardless of Cori's answer, he had decided he would indeed act to bolster the courage and belief of these people.
Onrad Wednesday July 4th, 2007 1:50:43 PM
Onrad grins at Ve, after thinking on his words about rolling with the punches of all these amazing sights.
"Yaknow Ve, your words are very true. Very true. However, there is also something to the fact that when you've seen everything, it all seems normal and you might lose something important about being mortal: the struggle. Ursis used to say, "Beware, too much acceptance of the amazing as normal will rob you of your emotions and....stuff." No, that's how he said it.
As my friend Jus used to say, 'It's not the one with the most toys that wins, but the one who has the most fun.'
"I might change the word fun for adventure, but the point is still true. Let the amazing be amazing."
Later he mumbles. "Crow is a cool name, huh?"
And later still, "Let's move this thing. We're slower than Valdor's molasses at breakfast."
Valdor Thursday July 5th, 2007 10:21:50 AM
Valdor smiles at his brother's words and replies,"We may be, but these people need hope while we are here. It's not much, but it's all we can do forthem. They may live in the future, they may not, if we succeed. But, we can't control that, all we can do is give them some hope for the now that they live in.
They've been hiding for so long, that they don't probably know joy, happiness, contentedness, or any of those satisfying feelings. Even if we change the Wold enough that these people don't remember this day, maybe today they will enjoy it."
Mordrid Thursday July 5th, 2007 1:46:36 PM
"Hey Onrad, I've been working on a book. 'Valdor Breakfast Metaphors Volume 2.'"
Nick d20+13=31 d20+19=31 Thursday July 5th, 2007 1:59:21 PM
Nick stands and stares at Valdor for a moment. He smiles, and then gives out a long sigh. "You're right. I know. It's just.... a shock, I suppose."
Outside, he pushes it all to the back of his mind as the people appear. Thankfully, Valdor is a good orator and can work a crowd, so, Nick concentrates on looking like the benevolent servant of Alemi that he is, and his eyes scan the throng. Could be that there were those in need of healing. These were hard times, and although he nods at Ve's suggestion that this all might go away, it was difficult not to live in the present. Another glance at his fellow cleric gives him the impression that Ve is perhaps feeling the same way.
spot 31 heal 31
DM Jan Thursday July 5th, 2007 2:09:55 PM Death. Only to be born again. Then another death. And another. All without power, without magic. Grubbing in the dirt, dying of starvation, or from whatever was left of Marteaus's pestilence, or having the skin flayed off for use by the golems, or possibly the worst of all - old age. Over and over, running and hiding from these stupid constructs. Living amongst these ordinary people, who are SO unworthy. And now.... power runs in the land, once more. And spells, yes - a piece here, a piece there, coming together in this ten year old brain. Come on, you canny little ferret. Start to remember. Oh, how good it feels. Yes. But wait. They say someone is here. Are they the reason? Must go and look. I wonder...
But no, it can't be! It cannot be! No!! I killed you. And you! Seven of you to take me down and I took most of you with me......
From the looks on faces in the small crowd, it is obvious that no one has ever seen such a man as Valdor before. Or any of the others for that matter, and they stand listening, spellbound in their torn clothes and weary masks of downtrodden exhaustion. Until the name of Crow is mentioned. "Freedom? Is that possible? " a man toward the front asks. "We are at the mercy of those things!" he points toward Config.
Both Nick and Ve see undernourishment, malnutrition and weakness. It overshadows any other ailments they might have been suffering from. Life here has not been easy. On anyone.
Hard not to stay and help these people, but then, it could be that the entire Wold looked like this.
Dahlia scans the crowd with a practiced eye. Practiced enough to see murderous intent beneath an opaque layer of utter shock. One of the crowd - a young kid, hard to tell how old he was beneath all that grime, turns and runs back into the City. But that look.... on someone so young...
Onrad Thursday July 5th, 2007 3:40:30 PM
"Do not forget, comrades, that we are here to prevent this timeline. We all feel sympathy and want to reach out, but we are here to prevent this, to let them all be born in a different future.
"So the best way to help is to quickly put an end to all of it.
"Again, I say let's go."
Corialote and Amarth Thursday July 5th, 2007 6:25:48 PM
Cori has been thinking about all that has been said and some things that have not been said. She listens to Ve and then wrinkles her brow. "There are so many theories on time...alternate worlds...alternate timelines...but I would venture to guess that whatever changes we make here will change this future to something else. Things will continue here but on a different path than it was originally on." She glances to the rest and smiles, hoping that she was not talking about something that they could not at least grasp the concept.
As Onrad speaks she nods her head. "He is right, we are wasteing too much time here. We need to move and as Mordrid has said...attack the head and all the little ones will come back." Of course she is only guessing but it does make sense in so many ways. She is just worried about what is behind Crow.
[Sorry for missing two posts. The 4th took me away for a longer period of time than I wanted. Was not sure if I was going to make it back today either. :)]
~~Jan~~ Webber, you party animal :)
Scott Thursday July 5th, 2007 9:47:42 PM
OOC: I will be leaving for Aruba at 4:00AM Saturday morning. I will be gone for seven days. And you thought Webber was the party animal. Im the original party animal.
~~Jan~~ Aruba! Yet more confirmation that all the wild ones post on this board.
Mordrid Thursday July 5th, 2007 10:34:55 PM
Mordrid turns around to Ve, "Is there anything we can do to feed these people?"
The ranger sees a small shape run thru his peripheral, into the shadows. Nothing to cause immediate alarm, so it seems.
Valdor d20=19 Friday July 6th, 2007 12:49:17 AM
Valdor, watching the crowd, gauging their reaction, nods to Dahlia to "disappear" and keep lookout. He nods at Mordrid's comments and turns to Onrad and says,"We don't really know, my friend, what will happen. But, if we can at least bring a small comfort to these people, it is the right thing to do.
I've always believed it wasn't killing the dragons that made me feel good...it was helping the poor people when their homes were flooded by the fey king's return. It was really helping rebuild Shantytown with my strength, not my money. While the other actions are necessary, sometimes it's the actions we think that are small that really make the difference. We can spare a few minutes, I think."
Ve Mundr Friday July 6th, 2007 1:45:09 PM
The cleric nods to Mordrid. "There most certainly is." To Cori and Inrad the cleric adds, "We are only wasting time if we don nothing and leave. You can waste all the time you like. I am staying."
Ve moves towards the crowd, "Freedom is possible with courage my friends. We are here to show the way, but our time is short. So you must follow and continue." Ve says a short prayer to Domi, "Bless them, feed them and allow me to show them the wonders of the Wold." [Ve casts Heroes Feast]
"Come, sit and enjoy. From here you will build the Wold again. From here the sound of hope will ring out. From here the people of the Wold will again be free."
If there are more people than 22 in the crowd, Ve will ask Father Nick to cast one as well. If he cannot then Ve will cast Miracle to duplicate a second Heroes Feast.
"Father Nick, Do you happen to have the appropriate materials to create a Hallow site?"
Dahlia Friday July 6th, 2007 5:58:07 PM
shocked by what she sees in the youths eyes she pauses for just one moment she calculates how far away the youth is and then if in range whips her rope of entanglement right at him hopefully bringing him down before he escapes.
DC 20 strength or escape artist to escape
Then following Valdor's instructions she vanishes from sight.
Posting Report for Monday July 9th, 2007 6:30:23 AM
the # 1 Game the Platinun Dragons For the week of July 2,2007
Name-----MTWTF DM Jan---XOOXO Valdore--XOOXX Mordrid--OXOXO *Going to Aruba Dalia----XXOOX Fr.Nick--XOOXO VEMunt---OXOOX Coralots-OOOXO Jus------OOOOO Onrad----OOXXO *The only one that posted on a Holiday.
Adm Ceil - What can I say? It rain in Texas.
Nick Monday July 9th, 2007 12:40:44 PM
Nick smiles to himself on hearing Valdor's words. Yes, it was important to keep moving, but how could they just leave these people? Nick knows he isn't one that can make that kind of tough, cold decision. Healing is his life.
He assesses the crowd. If Ve Mundr's spell won't cover it, he'll cast his own Heroes Feast spell. Ten minutes. They had ten minutes, right?
"What's on your mind?" he asks Ve, as the Protector asks him about the Hallowing. "I've got the necessary incense, but it'll take a day and a night to work it."
DM Jan Monday July 9th, 2007 12:52:45 PM
There is a crowd of thirty two gathered before the adventurers, and all now stand staring at the two magnificent, laden Heroes Feast tables before them. There is a moment, as they stand mesmerized, then one of the younger ones breaks forward and reaches for the food. After that, they're on it like a pack of starving wolves. The scene is at once gratifying, desperate, and heartbreaking. That all of the Wold has been reduced to this.
An older man manages to extract himself with some difficulty from the feeding frenzy. He gives the group a bow. There are tears in his eyes. "We've never seen such things," he says, "other than what we hear in our myths and legends, where there were Gods, and light, and where things were good. All we have ever seen is the dark - and the monsters that, if they catch us, make us dig holes for ore, till our hands are worn to stumps; where they take our children and strip their skins, so they can build more of the flesh ones. And this food tastes so good...." He wipes his eyes on a filthy sleeve. His accent is deep tunnel Dirt City, hard to understand initially. "These Gods... will they help us all? Can we help you?"
Dahlia sees the kid run, notes the direction. He's going down Below, down the Tower steps. The rope would have been on the edge of it's range, and the crowd.... too many people in the way. She vanishes out of sight. Another miracle, and no one notices, such is the allure of fresh food presented before them.
Tommy steps forward. Food and halflings. Wentworth grabs him. "We've got our rations," he tells his brother.
Minutes tick by.
Dahlia Monday July 9th, 2007 4:50:15 PM
Valdor, we have a bolter, you want me to let him go or take him into custody? (she quickly relays what she saw of the boy and his attitudes and eyes, etc?)
Corialote and Amarth Monday July 9th, 2007 8:59:17 PM
Cori shrugs as she was not sure how she could help anyways and watches the feeding frenzy. Shaking her head she cannot wonder about the things that these people have been through.
She does catch the conversation with Dahlia and nods her head. "If you want we might be able to track him down...though it might be hard." More or less she is offering to help Dahlia with the search if it is given the go ahead.
Amarth nods his own head as he speaks up, something that he rarely does. "I can help out by adding eyes in the sky." He spread his wings as he waits to see what will happen.
Valdor Tuesday July 10th, 2007 12:04:21 AM
Valdor smiles as Nick and Ve take care of the people...even if it's for nothing. He yhen replies to Dahlia,"Stay invisible and follow him. He may lead you somewhere we need to know about. But take no unneccessary risks. We do not know what we face yet."
Onrad Tuesday July 10th, 2007 2:58:31 PM
Ornad shrugs and jumps into the crowd of feeders and begins giving each a single golden coin. He tells each one, "This is for your families. For food."
DM Jan Tuesday July 10th, 2007 3:11:36 PM
And so, as Ve, Onrad and Nick see to the needs of the immediate local population, and Valdor, Cori, Mordrid, Nonam, and Jus decide the next course of action -
Dahlia slips invisibly after the kid who ran. The Tower - what used to be the Key Tower - is in extreme disrepair. Trash and falling masonary litter the stairwell, and the tunnels below look partially block. At Below Level, it looks as though some areas have been blocked on purpose. It's dark, smelly, and she knows it's a complete rabbit warren down here. Weird, that only days ago the whole group were strolling through this city, when it was truly alive. Now it looks dead - it's past worn down by collapse and gloom.
There are sounds down here, also. Distant banging and clashing. With no indication of what or who they belong to, echoing through the tunnels beyond. There's a decision therefore, for Dahlia, too. Follow the kid and get swallowed up in the gloom. Or rejoin the others.
So, what's next for our heroes?
Dahlia Tuesday July 10th, 2007 5:14:42 PM
Valdor he entered the tower, sounds like a metal works. You want me back or to do a bit of scouting?
Valdor Tuesday July 10th, 2007 7:42:38 PM
Valdor replies,"If you know where he went, come on back. Don't want us too separated and, if something happened, we wouldn't know the way to where you are. We should probably search that place after these people are fed and get back into hiding."
DM Jan Wednesday July 11th, 2007 4:48:25 PM
Config turns to Valdor.
"There will be constructs like me down there, with slave teams of them," it points at the people eating, "they need metal. And it is quicker to scavenge and melt down, rather than extract from the ground."
Onrad Wednesday July 11th, 2007 5:14:37 PM
Onrad begins encouraging those who have food and a coin to go back to their homes.
"It is not safe yet. We'll do our best to change that, but for now, go home. Be safe. Help others."
The words vary, but he truly tries to begin clearing out the crowd. It would be very hard to protect such a group if something happened.
He watches hard to see if anyone is being a bully with the money or the food.
Dahlia d20+24=39 Wednesday July 11th, 2007 6:42:13 PM
On my way back thens she makes her way back, Dahlia takes advantage of her invisibility to really take a look at things on the way.
spot 39
Valdor Thursday July 12th, 2007 12:34:09 AM
Valdor nods to Config and says,"We may be getting company soon that we don't want. Cori, Nick, Ve, and Nonam, be prepared to cast some defensive spells on us like stoneskins and such. We don't know what we will be facing, but we need to be ready."
He moves to the area that Dahlia would have followed the boy and waits, sword in hand.
Onrad Thursday July 12th, 2007 9:49:15 AM
Still dealing with the people, and a longing in his heart growing to compete with his anxiousness to be on with the task, he works quickly.
"Yes, we'll be back to help again if it is possible.
"No we will not leave you in the lurch. We are hear to help.
"OK folks, we think that there will be some bad company coming soon, so off with you. Get to safety. Pray for us. Yes it does make a difference."
Ve Mundr Thursday July 12th, 2007 12:32:44 PM
Ve nods to Father Nick, "I know the spell takes a day, but I was going to perform a Miracle. These people need hope, they need a symbol to rally around and I think Gargul's temple, the site where word will spread from wher it all began is the best place. I would still need the insence though. I can Extend it and Enlarge it to cover the entire area for 2 full years. I was thinking Daylight as the embedded spell."
Ve looks to the man who asked what they could do and he moves to stand with him. "You can spread the word of this place and of Gargul, Lord of Life, Domi Lord of Courage and Alemi Lord of Health." Ve takes his personal journal and writings of Domi from his Haversack and hands it to the man. "This will help you gain understanding and I hope fuel your spirit and mind. Read it, think upon it and follow what your heart feels is right after reflection. Stay here and eat and drink. Alemi and Domi have blessed us with an abundance to provide, but you must partake of it for 1 hour."
Dahlia's report and Valdor's mention of company brings him around after a final smile and compassionate hand to the man's shoulder. Ve moves to stand near Valdor and whispers "The people will gain nothing from the magical feast if they do not partake of it for a full hour. We need to buy a great deal of time. If the golems are harvesting metal with slave teams, why would they cease to come after us though?" The last is mused aloud, "We might be jumping the assumption cart to soon."
Valdor Thursday July 12th, 2007 6:09:46 PM
Valdor replies,"I didn't say they were coming, but that they might be. I will buy you your time at any cost, however, so continue with your plan. Nothing will bother these people while I draw breath."
He removes his cloak then flexes his arms for good measure and begins to warm up. With his armor revealed, he smiles, draws his swords and starts through his motions while the clerics do their work. All the while, though, he keeps an eye on the entrance where Dahlia went.
Corialote and Amarth Thursday July 12th, 2007 9:08:40 PM
Cori comes to stand near Valdor, a smile upon her face. "I was wondering if we would have a little fun." She is feeling better with her magic back and is ready for what may come.
Amarth, perched on her shoulder, says nothing but seems like he would like to say something.
[Spell list to come.]
Nick Friday July 13th, 2007 1:33:26 AM
"Ah," says Nick, and reaches into a belt pouch. He carefully hands Ve Mundr a small stick of incense in a glass vial. "A good idea. We've no idea what the future holds for these people, and I'd rather assume a continuation, and do something, as opposed to doing nothing. I'll join you in prayer."
DM Jan Friday July 13th, 2007 1:46:20 AM
The hour passes. Those not involved directly with the people or preparing the temple might do well to follow Valdor's lead and stay on guard.
Dahlia finds nothing else of particular interest on her way back up to the surface, other than bearing witness to how neglect and time have battered this place into a pale shadow of it's former self.
Nothing threatening follows her back up the stairs. Valdor's sword is jittery with renewed power and nothing to bite into. Cori's companion Amarth catches distant light moving to the north, and not long after, one of those strange trains passes by in the distance, heading north west.
At the end of the hour, Valdor gathers a crowd. Most have heeded Onrad's words, but others - five men, two women - "We want to fight," they tell the Dragonstone. They're empowered, invigorated, by the Heroes Feast spell.
The old man has taken Ve Mundr's journal and is hugging it close, as though it was the greatest treasure he has ever been given.
Onrad Friday July 13th, 2007 2:11:44 PM
Sighing that most have gone home, he looks around for a good defensive position or a crow's nest to see something approaching.
Valdor Friday July 13th, 2007 8:22:27 PM
Valdor addresses the seven and says,"What we do is dangerous. Deadly to some. As long as there is evil abroad, however, good people with strong hearts must stand together to fight it. You should examine yourselves and find your strengths and weaknesses. Be honest about it. Work together to become stronger and help and protect those who cannot help themselves."
He spends a few minutes explaining what each member does and how they work as a team. He gives several examples of how they protect each other even while fighting. Finally, he pulls out a long sword, a short sword, and two daggers from his backpack. They are non-magical, but these people don't know that.
He says,"These weapons are my gifts to you all, who have shown the strength and heart to do more than the others. Keep these hidden from prying eyes. Until you can use them well, you will be a target to the constructs and the slavers. Also, as I have owned them for many years, I am attuned to them by magic and will know if they are used for anything but good. If I ever sense that they are used in an evil way, I will return and destroy whoever does so.
My name is Valdor and I am known in my land as the Dragonstone and Dragonslayer. Take these and do good with them. And always...have courage."
He says a prayer to Domi that they will have the courage to use them well.
Posting Report for Monday July 16th, 2007 6:28:43 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons For the week of Jule8,2007
Name-----MTWTF DM Jan H-XXXOX Valdor---O2X2X Mordrid--OOOOO Fr.Nick--XOOOX Dalia----XXXOO VE Mont--OOOXO Coralot--XOOXO Nonam----OOOOO Onrad----OXXXX Jus------OOOOO
Adm Ceil - ???Three no post for this week?
Onrad Monday July 16th, 2007 12:41:43 PM
Onrad, obviously antsy for some time now, climbs up on top of the temple to watch and get away from what he views as speeches and posturing. Deep inside he knows this is the role of the heroes, to imspire and such, but that has always been something Onrad had avoided, dating back to his days as a child in the noble Onrad household.
He has a quick flashback to his father making him do the area circuit of towns to appease and listen to the rantings and demands of the local mayors. It causes his temper to flair thinking of it even now. He escaped all that to become a man of action, an adventurer.
Now he sees it coming full circle. He could stand feeding the people cause he could do it quickly. But all this organizing, waiting, posturing, it just frustrates one.
So relax, stretch, and watch, Onrad. Gods, I'm talking to myself now.
Dahlia d20+26=38 Monday July 16th, 2007 5:09:02 PM
Back with the group Dahlia passes the time by juggling a half dozen or so daggers Reflex dc 38 and watches Valsor deal with the group of foolishly brave citizens.
Jan OOC Tuesday July 17th, 2007 1:29:34 AM
Sorry guys! Horribly busy day today (then I was bad and watched Posh Spice AND Hells Kitchen.) I'll post tomorrow morning. Promise.
Nick Tuesday July 17th, 2007 12:01:37 PM
After helping out with Ve's spell preparations, Nick watches the group gathered around Valdor. Seven weapons were woefully inadequate for what these people faced, but if the Dragons could break the back of Crow and his mob of constructs, then perhaps others would join in the fight.
DM Jan Tuesday July 17th, 2007 12:01:55 PM
The seven gathered around Valdor listen intently. Their faces are grim, but their new strength and vigor has put a spark of resolve in their eye. Hope and possibilities flow from these new visitors and the locals are soaking it up like sponges.
Onrad's new vantage point atop the temple gives him a good view, despite the fact that it is still nightfall. The sea to the south twinkles and shifts in the moonlight. It's relatively calm out there, no traffic. Hard to say if there is any shipping at all. To the north - that faint glow on the horizon, particularly to the north west, one that tells him there is activity up there, either that or a huge forest fire.
It's the Woldian equivalent of about 1 AM. Dahlia and the others can almost feel the adrenalin exhuding from those who took advantage of the feast spell. Doesn't feel sleepy time at all.
Time to move?
Mordrid Tuesday July 17th, 2007 1:03:38 PM
The ranger enjoys watching his brothers and sisters render aid.
When the peasant steps forward to thank the adventurers, Mordrid asks the man, "are there any horses nearby?"
If there are, the ranger will take the logical steps to secure the usage of the horses.
There was a lot of ground to cover between Dirt City and Mount Bone. He does not consider teleportation as an option, because the travel time on horseback would allow them to better access what they were approaching. Mordrid ponders the rudeness of teleportation, that somehow always puts his skill-set at a disadvantage.
Ve Mundr Tuesday July 17th, 2007 2:42:08 PM
Ve thanks father Nick for his foresight and his assistance with the Hallowing of Gargul's temple. Calling upon the power of Domi, Ve extends his hands over the area. "Lord Domi work through me to bless this place and mark this land as the new beginning. Watch over and guide these people. This worlds brave new hopes. The first sparks of courage." Ve will wrap both Enlarging and Extending power into the Miracle of the Hallow. Afixed within the now sacred location, Ve places a Bless spell for all those of Good alignment.
Ve will also add to Valdor's gifts his own dagger, crossbow and 20 bolts. Looking to the man to whom he has trusted his journal, he places a hand on his shoulder and directs his attention to the seven before Valdor. "You will be thier guide. Serve them well"
Moving to stand near Father Nick, the hierophant wears a smile. "The stone has been set to motion my friend." Noting Mordrid moving he nods, "Yes we should be moving I suppose."
Dahlia Wednesday July 18th, 2007 8:17:43 AM
Putting away her knives, the dark halfling looks around at the others. " So we going to Mount Bone again or shall we go after the one I was following first?
Nick Wednesday July 18th, 2007 11:46:27 AM
Nick's smile carries an aura of satisfaction, of being settled, and grounded, as Ve's spell comes into being. If he was to think on it, the lack of Holy presence had been more unsettling to him than he realised, and so to have it back, and to feel it here, on the land...
He steps toward the construct. "Config," he asks politely. "Can you lead us to this Crow fellow?"
Onrad Wednesday July 18th, 2007 4:22:42 PM
Onrad tried to deterine if he's seeing Mount Bone at this distance, or if the glowing is something else.
He glances down at the others, to see what's up and continues scanning.
Then he yells down. "There's something in the distance to the NW. Miles away I think. May be Mount Bone. Might be a forest fire. But it's big."
He points.
DM Jan Wednesday July 18th, 2007 8:15:07 PM
The temple building beneath Onrad's feet acquires a positive aura, as Ve Mundr's spell comes into being.
Weaponry, plans and tactics move back and forth between Dirt Citizens and Dragons alike.
The older man raises an eyebrow toward Mordrid. "Horses?" he asks. "I take it you've ridden such a wonderful beast? I heard there are wild ones to the far north, but they're rare. I've never seen one. Only drawings." He glances up toward the duellist perched on the roof. "That glow he's yelling about belongs to the mines up at Mount Bone. If you're going up there - be careful."
Config nods in the affirmative to Father Nick's question. "Yes. In fact now the magic is back, the bond is stronger than ever."
Ach. A scratch to his hand as he had dashed through the ruins of Below. Had there been someone following him? Possible. He hadn't been totally sure. No matter. What was a little spilled blood? Now where - ah, yes. The bag, containing herbs, foul-smelling oils, a couple of reliqueries, ruby dust, gold dust, wood splinters, string, chalk, teeth and oh yes - exceedingly rare - feathers. Not many of those around these days; dragon scales - still fewer of those. A few other packets and potions he's collected over the long years. Not everything, but it will have to do. The staffs are hidden; were hidden. Well, we shall see. Time to go. Assuming Crow is still alive, his power over these constructs will be useful against the enemy. And with the Woldsblood alive, full of souls and lending him power, that little fortress of Crow's should be an easy egg to crack. Don't get ahead of yourself. The staffs, first.
TELEPORT Into an old, familiar darkness....
Valdor Thursday July 19th, 2007 12:19:34 AM
Valdor smiles at Mordrid and pats his shoulder. He says,"I know you prefer to travel that way, but we don't know the terrain, nor what we will encounter along the way. Of course, we don't know what we will find when we teleport either. I don't relish running that far and we need to make haste, but I'm fine with whatever. Shoulds we sleep briefly, or head on now? Of course, should we travel on foot, we can hopefully find a place to make camp. Or, it may be barren all the way and we'll be out in plain sight for all to see.
Any thoughts? Onrad, how long of a walk is it by your best guess?"
He's kinda rambling, still thinking about this group they have started down a path.He's getting sick of giving speeches these days, but they have to have hope and he feels he needs to prepare them somewhat for a new life...or will they even have that life if the future they are in is changed? His head wants to explode thinking about all this stuff. He could use some jabs from Nonam to re-focus his thoughts on just finding his quarry and killing it, instead of all of this other stuff.
Config (NPC) Thursday July 19th, 2007 2:21:16 PM
"There is also the train. I am a construct. You are my slave team. Although... a problem, you look different from the usual human passenger."
The golem's shiny head moves this way and that.
Ve Mundr Thursday July 19th, 2007 5:20:32 PM
Ve stands and listens, "Sounds like getting horses would be more arduous than walking there in the first place. Which leaves walking and the train and teleport. Config senses the magic, everyone remotely connected to it would as well. I think the longer we wait, the greater advantage we give up."
Ve casts Status and reaches out to include all the Dragons present and looks specifically at Valdor. "Teleport is the smartest option. No one will know precisely where we are going to start, though I have no illusions that they do not know we are coming. " Ve stops short, then looks at Config and the halflings and frowns. "Potential problem most certainly." as he regards them. "They would not be exactly safe here without at least one of us, but I do so not want to take them." Ve voice drops and then he looks to the halflings and locks thier attention to him. "You Two will stay right behind me and do what I say when I say it."
"I am still for teleport, hopefully the ring can take Config."
Valdor Thursday July 19th, 2007 6:17:57 PM
Valdor gets a confused look on his face and asks Config,"What's a train?"
Onrad Thursday July 19th, 2007 6:43:20 PM
"I'm getting bored up here. Someone make something interesting happen please or decide we can go!
"Just saying...I mean adventuring is not supposed to be stand and talk about it all.
"Pleeeasssseee?"
Corialote and Amarth Thursday July 19th, 2007 11:44:13 PM
A low growl starts in the back of Cori's throat at the mention of being slaves. Even if it is pretend she will not go along with it. Her eyes flash with unconcealed anger as she scans each person in turn. "Teleport me there...but don't expect me to be a slave." She literally hisses through her clenched teeth as she speaks.
Amarth shivers at the venom in his Mistress's voice, as it sends chills up his spine. He knows a little about his Mistress and this is the way of her people, to keep slaves. No female would ever allow herself to be a slave to anyone...she would die first.
[God am I sorry. Forgot all about posting here. I am a very bad player.]
~~Jan~~ Bad, Jim! Bad! :)
Nick Friday July 20th, 2007 1:57:11 AM
Nick looks out toward the north. "Well, despite that fact that my stomach hates to travel instantaneously, I think speed is of the essence. And besides, If we don't get a move on I suspect Onrad will explode with impatience."
He approaches Valdor and says quietly, "You did very well with those people," he says. "We have no idea what will happen to them if and when our task is completed, but we couldn't just leave them."
DM Jan Friday July 20th, 2007 2:12:16 AM
A long metal arm comes up and points to the north as Valdor asks the construct a question. "The train of carriages, on the metal rails," the elemental says, it's voice flat. If it senses Cori's anger, it shows no sign.
Tommy and Wentworth take Ve Mundr quiet literally and cluster behind him as they sense a journey into danger is imminent. The Protector becomes 'aware' of those around him as Status is cast.
And so - teleport seems to be the general consensus? If so, the group need to gather, the destination given, the spell cast. As for what to expect, perhaps the absolute worst, and suitable preparations are in order.
Onrad Friday July 20th, 2007 5:28:45 PM
Onrad tumbles down the roof and falls to the ground touching the wall every few feet.
He sprints to Valdor and grabs his wrist.
Then he looks up at the leader with expectation in his eyes.
Serious for a few seconds. All business.
Then he smiles.
Then serious.
He thinks: ::come on now::
Mordrid Saturday July 21st, 2007 11:59:40 AM
Mordrid will accept the ring of teleportation in due turn.
[OOC: for some reason my last post failed to post]
Posting Report For Monday July 23rd, 2007 6:45:16 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons For the week of July16,2007
Valdor Monday July 23rd, 2007 10:30:06 AM
Valdor says,"Since we don't know what we face, before we teleport, we need to prepare any spells that last a while."
Hearing Cori's anger, he immediately adds,"Don't worry my dear, noone would expect you to act like a slave. He just meant, I think, that with us following him, it would look like we were his team. We don't have to be servants. I wouldn't be able to act as such either. I'd rather just have a big fight as to act like such. Could you casta stoneskin on me before we go? And anyone else, should they feel the need?"
Nick Monday July 23rd, 2007 3:22:07 PM
"Gather close," Nick implores everyone before they set off, while reaching for a tiny metal box in a pouch on his belt.
"Blessed Alemi, grant us your power. May your strength protect us in this dark time."
Casting SHIELD OF LAW on group. (+4 AC, +4 saves, SR 25 on chaos spells, block possession.)
Ve Mundr AC 45 HP 224 Monday July 23rd, 2007 7:13:58 PM
Vemoves to Father Nick. The spell would not aid him, but it felt right to hear his friend pray for thier well being. Ve checks his own pride on the conversation of pretending to be slaves or not. It would serve no purpose but his own ego to make point of it. So he remains silent.
Ve will drink a potion of Barkskin and cloak himself in a Protection from Energy Fire. "I can cast two more similar energy protections if we wish."
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Freedom of Movement 220 minutes Protection from Elements Fire 220 minutes Status 22 hours Shield of Law [Father Nick]
Corialote and Amarth [shield of law] Monday July 23rd, 2007 8:58:39 PM
Cori moves over to stand near Nick and receive his blessing with the others. She glances to Valdor, the pricklings of anger still linger in her eyes, and nods understanding. "I have use of the stoneskin spell twice more...who is interested?" She will take the time to cast the spell upon Valdor, but after she pulls a rod out the pocket of her pants to enhance it. "I also have a number of spells that will be useful in combat...but we must be close for me to get all of us with them." She is ready when the rest are and she seems to have cooled down since the whole slave thing.
SPELLS 0th(4): acid splash(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), floating disk(2), ray of enfeeblement(2), expeditious retreat 2nd(7): glitterdust(2), web(2), blur(2), mirror image 3rd(7): dispel magic(2), hold person(2), displacement, haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), greater invisibility(2) 5th(3): hold monster, wall of force(3) 6th(6): greater dispel magic, chain lightning(2), mass cat's grace, mass fox's cunning, true seeing 7th(6): greater teleport, summon monster VII(2), extend mass bear's endurance, reverse gravity, phase door 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): summon monster IX, shapechange, time stop(2) *used spell
[extend stoneskin(Valdor): 150 damage or 1200 rounds]
DM Jan Monday July 23rd, 2007 10:08:39 PM
Incoming......
LOG ON