An Echoing Sound of Thunder [DM Jerry] Friday May 25th, 2007 9:28:52 AM
FLASH!
KABOOM!
With a bright flash of light and an echoing sound of thunder, two adventurers appear in front of our walking heroes.
One is dressed in emerald green from head to toe, a glowing sword at her side. Her bright hair waves in the wind and her cloak billows.
She is K'nara, leader of the Emerald Dragons!
The other is dressed in silver--platinum, if you will--with accents in gold. He stands tall and very muscular for a half-elf. The dragonstone glows on his chest, and his sword, "The Drqagonslayer", hangs off his hip. His confident smile lets you know that he's not being agressive.
He is Valdor, leader of the Platinum Dragons and the Dragonstone of the Dragon Consortium.
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[OOC, K'nara and Valdor will speak for themselves when they post today. Feel free to react as you wish. ;)]
Valdor Friday May 25th, 2007 11:20:28 AM
Valdor smiles at the gathered heroes and says,"My friends, I am Valdor of the Platinum Dragons. This is K'Nara, whom I'm sure some of you have either met or seen. She is the leader of the Dragon Consortium's newest members, the Emerald Dragons."
He steps back and motions for K'Nara to proceed.
Monthor Friday May 25th, 2007 11:26:50 AM
{ Hey Julie.... should me bash these two? }
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Friday May 25th, 2007 1:22:28 PM
(OOC: sorry for the delay--would've posted earlier, but I'm a bit under the weather.)
The tall human woman bows to Valdor.
"Thanks for the introduction, Valdor." she says, then turns canny hazel eyes to the group. "We two are here because the Dragon Consortium has become aware that your group has exhibited amazing potential to do great things in the Wold. Quite frankly, we like what we see. So we're inviting you all...to breakfast at the Emerald Dragons' Tower at Maryn, where we'd love to make you an offer. We'll provide the transportation to breakfast in the morning." She looks around, smiling, holding out her left hand, upon the palm of which is tattooed the colorful figure of a rearing unicorn.
"So...see you in the morning...yes..?"
Monthor Friday May 25th, 2007 2:54:30 PM
{ No bashing me guess... }
" If there be beer. Monthor Angels..... me means the GREY KNIGHTS will be there. Right boys?!? "
ooc> We stopped being the Hamletteers a while back did we not?
[Jerry: Yeah, but it hasn't taken totally because you wanted to keep the same icon on the games page. :)]
Tratain Friday May 25th, 2007 5:46:57 PM
Tratain's hand drops to the War Hammer hanging at his belt at the flash and sound of thunder but relaxes when its not the Circle who appear.
Tratain smiles at Monthor's attitude and response and says to K'nara "I believe I can speak for everyone when I say it would be our Honor to come and visit your tower tomorrow. We will be staying at our Properties in town here. Shall we meet whoever you will be sending to transport us there? , I can give you directions if you need them. Just be sure that whoever comes doesn't teleport right into the house, it may lead to unpleasantness. We're having a bit of a disagreement with a group of assassins called the Circle, they think they can just break into our house and tie up our housekeeper. We were going to teach them that they were in error."
Jova Friday May 25th, 2007 11:21:25 PM
Jova is shocked at the sudden appearance. The strangers were strange indeed. He remebered the troup of actors whpo changed theur appearances as well. Careful, he reminded hisself.
"Horvis beware, guard."
It is at that time as he takes inventory on the knights, where was Izen? This could be the attack they had been waiting for. Tratain walks right up and starts talking to them. Jova's mind reels.
OOC] Ok I understand we bbe moving the story. But with several highlevel assassins on our trail is there any way we can verify these are not of the circle? Not that i dont trust matt, but.......hehe.
Draax Friday May 25th, 2007 11:37:58 PM
Draax jumps a few steps back when Valdor and K'nara appear. After listening to them, he realizes that it might be a trap, but since he has met Valdor before and has heard of the Emerald Dragons, he does not think it is in the group's best interest to refuse.
He nods his head in agreement to the group accepting the invitation.
Valdor Saturday May 26th, 2007 1:26:04 AM
Seeing some are hesitant, Valdor smiles and says,"Some of you know me, some do not. Your...means of travel, will arrive at first light. Trust me when I say that you will know when it is time to go."
He is grinning knowingly. For those who haven't met him, he stands a few inches over six feet and weighs well over two hundred pounds, although there doesn't appear to be an ounce of fat on him. He wears a mithril breatplate with the letter 'V' etched in gold on his shoulderguard on his left arm. There is also a figure of a gold dragon etched in gold on his chest. When he moves, the gold dragon appears to be moving as well, sometimes flying, sometimes walking, but always in movement. He has a mithril shield as well, with the gold dragon on it.
He carries three long swords and has two baldrics of daggers over his chest and back. When he moves, it might make you think about assassins, but there's no doubt that had he been an assassin, there would be a lot of bodies on the ground already. All of his weapons are obviously magical and of exquisite workmanship. However, one sword has a jeweled hilt and the scabbard has a red tint to it. Any who have heard of him know he was once called the dragonslayer and that sword has helped him earn that name many times over.
(Hopefully, that will rest Jova's mind about the possibility of him being an assassin)
Horvis Saturday May 26th, 2007 10:18:16 PM
The dancing dog notices the arrival of the two strangers and how the others in the party react. When Jova motions, Horvis will stop jumping and stand facing the pair. Given a chance, he will try to get their scent and determine if they are wholly human and half-elf, or perhaps something else.
Horvis doesn't move from his guard position, even when the others in the party seem to accept the tall half-elf's words at face value. Horvis has spent too much time in the wilds to fully understand what has transpired, and staying in the form of an animal seems like a safer thing to do.
Jova Sunday May 27th, 2007 5:45:59 PM
Both Tratain, and Draax seem to trust these strangers. Even if it is a ruse, the circle has been found. They would need to go home and wait til the morrow. Somehow he presumed Monthor would not appreciate that, so...
"Friends, lets duck in here at this tavern and have a few drinks before we go home, what do you say?"
Tratain Monday May 28th, 2007 12:04:59 AM
Tratain says "Thats fine with me Jova, lets get a drink or two and collect everyone then head back to the house. We know where the Dwarf likes to drink so we can come back and find him after our meeting tomorrow."
Out of the Sun [DM Jerry] Monday May 28th, 2007 2:33:43 AM
Once the questions are ended, Valdor and K'nara depart with a show of fireworks! For an instant the explosions form a shape of a dragon, then they are gone.
The rest of the day is spent in curiosity and the normal activities of the day.
-----------
Early the next morning, a shout goes up from the streets!
There is much yelling and screaming outside.
Once you take a look, either out the window or going outside, you see a golden shape circling overhead. As it moves out of the sun, you see what the excitement is about.
A GOLD DRAGON!!!
It circles as if to ascertain that this is indeed the spot it was looking for. Once satisfied, it hovers for a bit looking intently at those below.
Then, having made up its mind, it buffets its wings and descends to the street to land.
Seeming to enjoy itself immensely, it lounges there watching and waiting.
Once it spots one of the group, it grins.
::GRIN::
Then it lowers a wing and extends a leg.
Tratain Monday May 28th, 2007 3:34:03 PM
Tratain looks out the window when the commotion starts in the streets. Seeing the Dragon Tratain is a little awed that one would come pick up the party, He calls to the Group "I think our transportation is here."
Tratain then gathers his belongings and heads out to meet the Dragon. He introduces himself to the Dragon before taking the offered ride.
Arien Monday May 28th, 2007 4:07:36 PM
Arien's eyes widen at the sight of the dragon and he lets out a low whistle. Arien follows Tratain out to the dragon and also introduces himself.
Draax Monday May 28th, 2007 5:57:11 PM
Hearing the commotion outside, Draax gathers his gear as he guesses correctly that their ride has arrived. When he gets outside and sees the dragon he stares at it in awe for a few seconds before going towards the creature's wing. "Now this is impressive. I expected a golden chariot, a floating cloud or something like flying horses, but I never expected to be honored by a live gold dragon."
Monthor Monday May 28th, 2007 7:17:36 PM
Monthor eventually gets outside takes one look at the dragon, stretches and yawns....
" Me bets ye that they don't serve drinks on that ship..... HOWYADOING Dragee!!! "
Monthor then walks up to the dragon and follows the others.
Jova Monday May 28th, 2007 7:45:21 PM
Jovais visibly agitated as the link with Z seems to be hurtful. Jova exits the house, seeing the sun, nearly falls over. Drinking with Monthor had not been a pleasant experience. And now the constant noise in his head from Z
Upon seeing the dragon, Jova assumes it is aferaffects of the alcohol. Telling Z to stay and watch the house, he follows the others to the shup, whicxh oddly looks like a dragon, of all thgings.
Horvis Monday May 28th, 2007 9:54:09 PM
The brown and black dog capers beside Jova as the mage exits the apartments. Horvis decided against drinking with Monthor, especially since he decided to stay in his assumed form. Even though he had to change back overnight, Horvis has attempted to adopt the same form.
Fortunately, the gold dragon's leg serves as a good step for the dog. Even though canine paws are not well suited for this, Horvis doubts that any other claws would work either. And hooves certainly wouldn't. So he finds a comfortable place to rest, not minding if one of his companions holds onto him. His disguise might be broken by the calm behaviour for Horvis is an experienced flyer.
ADM Joe Monday May 28th, 2007 10:51:22 PM
Posting Report for week ending Friday May 25th
M T W R F DM X X X X X Tratain X X O X X Jova X X O X X Monthor X X X X X Izen X X X O O Arien O X O X O Horvis O X X X X Draax X X X X X Juliander X X X X O
Juliander Monday May 28th, 2007 11:42:46 PM
Juliander follows the rest of the group out to meet the dragon. Standing before the magnificent creature, he bows as low as he can possibly go without falling over, "Juliander Phaelix... at your service." He then humbly takes his place along side his relatively new friends.
Izen Tuesday May 29th, 2007 8:25:20 AM
Kup ooc: I'm back! Marcin, thanks for posting for Izen. DM, I'm assuming that Izen "saw" and "heard" all of this while invisibly circling.
-Yes, we'll ahve to assume that you didn't go very far, and that the spectacle of the visitors teleporting in drew your attention. MC
IC: Izen took note of the pub to which he had tracked the invisible form, picked up the fallen envelope, and then landed and reappeared to join the others.
Going to follow on the Dragon board.
All Aboard [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 30th, 2007 8:16:46 AM
The dragon looks and smells each of you. It causes your clothes to billow. Amazing.
Then it lowers a wing and a front leg...
...and grins.
Izen Wednesday May 30th, 2007 8:56:33 AM
Izen's eyes widened involuntarily at the sight of the massive beast. Gingerly, he climbed onto the creature's back, shaking his head in disbelief.
Jova Wednesday May 30th, 2007 1:14:49 PM
Jova follows his friends as they climb on the beast. Jova thought it odd, this offer to ride. Maybe one of the others was talking to it, like he and Z talked. No matter.
Monthor Wednesday May 30th, 2007 8:18:04 PM
The dwarf smiles a toothy grin as he climbs on board the dragon.
" Momma's gonna love this story... her baby dwarf flying on a gold dragon. She be bragging about this one to the aunts for years.... "
Draax Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:09:20 PM
Draax climbs on the dragon and makes himself comfortable.
Horvis Wednesday May 30th, 2007 10:19:19 PM
The brown and black dog scrambles onto the back of the dragon, nimbly jumping from the ground to a leg and then onto the broad back of the beast. Once there, Horvis will find a place to rest. His companions may find flying to be interesting, but Horvis has been flying for many years.
Arien Wednesday May 30th, 2007 11:56:03 PM
Arien climbs aboard the dragon as well, and makng himself as comfortable as one can mentally braces himself for the flight to come.
Tratain Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:36:22 AM
Tratain steps up onto the Dragon with the others.
The Flight [DM Jerry] Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:08:34 AM
Once everyone is aboard, the dragon roars...
::ROARRRRRR::
...as a warning and leaps into the air. Its powerful wings beat and you rise at an alarming rate. Soon, the land below is a panarama of splotches and geometric figures.
As you travel across The Red Hills, you can spot little blips that must be ogres or giants. Eventually you cross the Peaseblossom where you see some large trade rafts manned by halflings...if that's what they are. Too small to be sure.
Across the river, you fly over Culverwood, just barely skirting the trees. It must be amazing to travel like this at will and not be concerned in the least about any dangers of the road.
Eventually, you spot a tower sticking out above the trees in a more cultivated part of the forest.
The dragon circles it once and roars his arrival. He descends and lands in front of the tower. You can see many adventurers out front. Some wave to welcome you.
The dragon lowers his wing again and extends his leg. Then he turns his head towards you and again....::grins::
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Ok, folks, from this point on until we're done, you'll be posting on the Emerald Dragons's Board. Feel free to go post there now. ;)
Stan / Draax Thursday May 31st, 2007 11:17:00 PM
I do not have permission to post on the Emerald Dragons's Board.
Jova--OOC Monday June 4th, 2007 6:29:25 PM
So are we posting here or the ED board. everything is helter skelter, hehe.
DM Jerry Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:49:03 AM
We're posting on the Emerald board. If you still don't have access, email me. I'll call it in personally. :)
Jova-OOC Tuesday June 5th, 2007 3:24:56 PM
Jerry. You said in one of your posts in the ED board to take the discussion back to your regular boards. You also said stay here in ED Board and discuss. Seemed ambiguous where to post. So i covered my 6
"Well me lads... sounds like the big boys are sending us on quite the trip. If the goal be that we end up with a castle... then me suggestes that we get some additional funds together by selling the group's house and property. We can use the proceeds ( that's a BIG word for Monthor ) to fund the quest. Me'd also suggest that we pool together what's left of our personal financial resources ( again with the BIG words) into a group found. Finally, we assess each other's strenths and weaknesses and spend the funds to compensate for them. We need to think ahead and consider what may be coming our way and be ready for it. Me be the last dwarf to want to share his gold but me sees this as an investment to make even MORE GOLD.
ooc> And 100 000 split 8 ways isn't that much considering what we have to do with it.
Horvis Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:18:40 PM
The centaur nods at Monthor as the dwarf starts making plans.
There are several things that Horvis would like to add, in terms of personal protection. Perhaps the journey into Fae Skimr would allow him to harvest a dragonhide large enough to have crafted into armor that would fit him?
Izen Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:33:53 PM
"I hadn't spent any funds from the Sons of Dread trip. Add that to the pool," the halfling known colloquially as Izen offered.
"I'll sell my Bands of Binding and a Ring of Protection, buy a Ring of blinking, and add in the extra proceeds, too."
Draax Thursday June 14th, 2007 1:21:19 AM
Draax looks shockingly at Monthor at the suggestion of selling the property. "Let us wait until we have a castle before we think about sell the property. Even if we do get castle it is a nice summer place and until we find out the meaning of that tree, I think we should hold onto the place. And more important, that is where I keep my horse."
Izen (second) Thursday June 14th, 2007 10:41:22 AM
"It's already a bit of a fixer-upper, Draax," izen observed, pointing out the damage from the attack of the Circle of assassins. "Not exactly the most secure location for high-profile Dragon-initiates."
SteveH Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:47:14 AM
(OOC:Not sure who the group's leader is, but your group got a gift from Valdor in his last post on the Emerald board. He presented it to Tratain because he knows him the best, but the leader should decide who carries it)
Jova Thursday June 14th, 2007 12:35:04 PM
Introspective at themoment.
Horvis Thursday June 14th, 2007 9:38:49 PM
The centaur listens to the conversation before rooting through his packs. Horvis returns with his Haversack, and hauls out the pouch that he keeps his coin in.
"I have nearly 14,000 gold that I can contribute. Besides the recommended magics, perhaps we could purchase a wand of Stoneskin?"
Draax Thursday June 14th, 2007 10:52:42 PM
Draax smiles at Izen's remarks, "Fixing it back up is not a problem, you should have seen the place when we first brought it. Once we have another place established, I will not have problem giving up this place. Until we get rich, I believe we should keep this place."
"I will throw in 5,000 gold to the group fund."
Onrad [DM Jerry] Friday June 15th, 2007 4:25:00 AM
Onrad pops in for a second. "As for how to get to Fae skiemir. I forgot to give you your cryptic clue. See we don't ever speak out loud of where the entrance is exactly. So I'm writing this down. Consider it part of the test?"
Grinning he scribbles something on a piece of paper.
It reads:
Find out about the Valley of Humiliation.
Monthor Friday June 15th, 2007 8:08:22 AM
Monthor takes a stick and starts doing the math by writing in the dirt....
" So, 100 000 from the Dragons, 5 000 from Draax, 14 000 from Horvis, 5 000 from the great and benevalent Monthor....Izen? How much are ye kicking in? Arien? Did you say you had coins to throw in too? Anyone else? "
"Total... carry the 5... add the 2... 124 000 so far. "
Monthor to SteveH Friday June 15th, 2007 8:09:56 AM
ooc> No issues here with Tratain carrying the scroll. No leaders in this group, just a bunch of civil servants taking forever to make decisions. :-)
Tratain Friday June 15th, 2007 4:36:23 PM
Tratain thanks Valdor for the Scrolls and says "I really hope we won't need to use these, but we'll be glad to have them just in case."
Tratain takes the piece of paper from Onrad and reads it, he says "I didn't know the entrance to the place we are going was there, Draax, Arien, Monthor and myself traveled through this place once before when the Fey king was causing troubles, on our way to see Queen Maab. There is more than one portal there then?"
OOC: Tratain has 6,000 gold at least that he will contribute, plus little used Items I can sell depending on what we decide to finally buy.
Arien Sunday June 17th, 2007 8:13:38 PM
Arien does a bit of considering before answering Monthor's question. "I can donate 40,000 gold pieces to the party pool. I would like to spend at least a week reviewing and adding spells to my spellbook though, which means a lot of time at the Star Mages guild."
Draax Sunday June 17th, 2007 9:55:44 PM
"Yea I remember the trip to see Queen Maab. It was not one of the most pleasant trips, but at least this time we will know the way and have some idea what to expect."
DM Matt Monday June 18th, 2007 9:03:19 AM
OOC: I believe we will be ready to start on the module tomorrow, unless anything changes. Of course, if there are other things anyone wants to do or take care of first, please say so.
Jova Monday June 18th, 2007 3:07:01 PM
Jova is really concerned at all the money they are talking about spending. Would the monsters really be that bad??? He had never come across anyhting too dangerous, nothing he couldnt run from. Time would twll.
Tratain Monday June 18th, 2007 6:28:17 PM
Tratain spends a week prepareing for the Trip, buying items from the catacombs and readying various other items. (I will send an OOC e-mail with what I do Matt if anything)
When the group is ready Tratain suggests going to speak with Lord Arrack first to see if he has anything to add about the Sons of Dread or the groups current mission.
OOC:I've sent an e-mail detailing things I suggest we buy for the Trip but so far very few respondents positive or negative, we need to make this purchase very soon and its a large ammount of money. If In a day or two I still get no feedback I'll just buy what I've listed.
Juliander Monday June 18th, 2007 7:55:25 PM
Juliander hauls a sack of coin out of his haversack, "Here ya go Monthor. Add thirty-thousand gold coins to the kitty from me. I'll need it not."
Monthor Monday June 18th, 2007 8:05:57 PM
"Carry the 6 and 30..., add Jova's 5 000, take the root value and multiply the whole thing by 12.... and the answer is.......
4!!!!!!
:-)
Wait! 205 000 gps!!!
Tratain, add some stuff to the list!! "
Tratain Monday June 18th, 2007 8:52:28 PM
Tratain whistles at the Funds in the War chest. He says "Someone's going to have to help me carry all this coin to the Catacombs"
(OOC: During the downtime we have Tratain would like to check out any reference Materials he can find regarding Fae Skymir anywhere in Plataue City. Any Information on its location. Also any information on what types of Creatures live there, any stories about the place as it was in the past and is now. Also, once there can you teleport home or is the Portal the only way in and out. Tratain will also Ask lord Arrack about these things when we go see him.)
I'll check on what info you can find. As for visiting Arrak, don't forget you also have the communication device to talk to him - M
Horvis Monday June 18th, 2007 8:52:59 PM
The centaur listens to the discussion about resources. He really should give the others some idea of what he has available.
Draax Monday June 18th, 2007 11:25:48 PM
Draax listens as the group discusses needed items and available funds. At Tratain's request for someone to help carry the War chest funds, Draax raises his hand, "Sure, I will help you carry the funds. Anyway, with the assassins still out there, we should not travel alone."
Arien Monday June 18th, 2007 11:50:04 PM
Arien spends the next week studying at the Star Mages guild and adding spells to his spellbook, stopping by the party's property just to rest.
Izen Tuesday June 19th, 2007 1:04:44 PM
"I still have to contribute, too," Izen pointed out. "I just can't remember how much my share was from our encounter with the Sons of Dread. I ... er ... never was very good at sums."
"I'd like to sell my Bands of Binding and Ring of Protection in favor of a Ring of Blinking, and possibly upgrade armor. The group is welcome to the rest."
DM Matt Tuesday June 19th, 2007 3:57:28 PM
OOC: are we ready, or is there still anything to take care of before we begin?
If ready, let me know what your intended course of travel is.
Tratain Wednesday June 20th, 2007 7:27:49 AM
After finishing shopping at the Catacombs and finding out what he can in his research Tratain is ready to Travel. He will cast Windwalk on the group and Head for Lord Arrak's to find out what they can.
OOC:I think we're ready, I'm in the catacombs now buying our items, it shouldn't take too much longer to finish and we should be set.
Izen Wednesday June 20th, 2007 9:04:32 AM
Izen hustled along with Tratain to the shop (ooc: got to get my purchases done, too--been stalling on getting my act together and now time's up! I should be all squared away by tomorrow's post).
A Trip to Arrak Wednesday June 20th, 2007 10:08:25 AM
ooc: keep going with the cats stuff while we do this, no worries.
After some days of preparation, everyone feels as ready as they can be for their new ordeal. The first stop, it is decided, is Lord Arrak's lair.
Tratain works his divine magics, and the group rises into the air, appearing almost cloudlike and insubstantial. Another moment, and you are speeding off toward Arrak at high speed.
After a short time, you come within site of the cavern you now know fairly well.
Setting down and looking around, things appear a bit different. The refugees you brought are gone. After a moment, one of the halflings you recall from your last visit comes out of the cave and bows. "If you please, follow me."
She leads you into the cave, and to the same sitting room in which you last met Arrak. After being offered a light snack and some refreshing drinks (including a mug of ale for Monthor), you look up to see Arrak enter the room.
"Ahh, my friends! To what do I owe the pleasure? My . . . sources . . . tell me you should be well on your way to Fae Skiemir by now." At the mention of the ancient elven city, one of the halflings gasps quietly before clapping a hand over her mouth.
DM Matt addendum Wednesday June 20th, 2007 3:54:50 PM
OOC: almost forgot, I need fully updated character sheets from everyone, including any changes from this weeks catacombs shopping. Even if you've sent me yours recently, and haven't done any shopping, please just send it again.
I have to get them all soon, as Jerry and I have a few things to deal with yet for this module and need the CS to do so.
Joe OOC Wednesday June 20th, 2007 5:09:20 PM
That including the items we're in the process of buying right now? We just need to finish the transaction in the catacombs and pass the stuff out and we're all set.
Yes, as up to date as possible. After the current cats transactions is perfect. -M
Juliander Wednesday June 20th, 2007 8:00:34 PM
Juliander spends his time in contemplation of the task before them. Humming a soulful elven dirge all the while, he prepares himself for the trials ahead. When they come upon Arrak, "Indeed fine sir, we are on our way... so to speak." Juliander smiles benignly.
Horvis Wednesday June 20th, 2007 9:37:35 PM
The centaur enjoys the leisurely flight to Arrak's cavern. Normally he would fly himself but Horvis won't reject a free ride.
After being taken inside, Horvis waits with the others until Arrack enters. When the dragon tells them that they should already be going, Horvis looks.
"Arrak, sir. What can you tell us of Fae Skiemir before we depart?"
Draax Wednesday June 20th, 2007 10:19:40 PM
Draax takes a sit and eats some of the knacks while he listens to Arrak's answer to Horvis' question.
Tratain Thursday June 21st, 2007 12:18:05 AM
Tratain sits and eats some snacks while the group meets with Arrak. Tratain asks him if he has learned anything yet from the information the group has brought him. And after that He asks about Fae Skeimir. (Questions I asked were posted above, I as the same questions to Arrak. Did I learn anyhting in the City)
Monthor Thursday June 21st, 2007 6:03:55 AM
" 'Sup Arry! "
Izen Thursday June 21st, 2007 8:08:34 AM
Izen bowed deeply to the dragon. "My lord," he said solemnly. "So .... Your lordship ... approves of our joining the Consortium?"
Lord Arrak Thursday June 21st, 2007 4:55:14 PM
"First," Arrak says, "Let me address our prior business. I have not yet learned much more on the Sons of Dread, though I am busily, and enjoyably, poring over the documents you brought me.
"Though I must pass on many thanks from those refugees. All have been returned to their families, if they had any, or sent where they felt most comfortable otherwise, and to the man, each claims he owes you all his life."
Arrak pauses to take a glass of wine, then settles into a wide armchair. "Now . . . Fae Skiemir. I must say, with all due respect, I am surprised the Consortium would send you there so early in your careers. It is . . . perilous, to say the least. I certainly would think twice myself before venturing there alone."
Pausing, he looks at Izen. "Why, of course I approve! I think it is a wonderful achievement, and offered to an entirely deserving band of brothers. But you don't need my approval. I am but one dragon, and not technically of the consortium proper."
Returning to his story, Arrak continues, "The city was once a beautiful achievement of elven magic and architecture. Sadly, it was destroyed at the end of the second age, as a result of a divisive and violent war between a number of elven factions.
"After its destruction, the drow were driven underground, the elven nation as a whole was weakened horribly, and they have never recovered to achieve their past state of glory.
"Fae Skiemir was, in so many words, the epitome of magic in its day. Laden with riches and arcanum beyond your imagination. Magic controlled everything there: weather, day and night, the very length of the elves' lives. It was used to prevent sickness, feed the hungry, and protect them from attack. So, one can imagine the sort of effect on the Wold if such a place were, for all intents and purposes, destroyed?
"When the city fell, most of the elves there were destroyed. The riches and wonders of Fae Skiemir remained, along with the remnants of the greatest elven magics in the Wold. Over time, this attracted the greedy, the malicious, and the evil beings in the world.
"Through the centuries, Fae Skiemir became populated with all sorts of beings who ventured there to gain wealth, power, knowledge, and more. But they did not fully understand what it was they were doing. You see, the magic of Fae Skiemir became . . . warped . . . after the city's fall. Most, if not all, of those beings who sought riches for greed or selfish purposes found themselves stuck in the city, unable to leave.
"It seems some sort of curse had been born over the ages. Now, this is where my information - and, most of the information available these days - becomes a bit unreliable. No one quite understands how the magic is keeping these things in the city. No one knows exactly what is doing it either. What seems clear is that these powerful, greedy, evil beings are now tied to the city in some way.
"This dynamic has developed over time, and now, at any given time, one can find a number of what I would call 'powerbrokers' in Fae Skiemir. These would be the toughest, meanest, smartest of those creatures who inhabit the city. They all have their minions, and of course there are countless evil beings scattered throughout the ruins.
"But these 'powerbrokers,' as I refer to them, control significant portions of the city, and have comandeered vast troves of the wealth that once graced the halls and towers of Fae Skiemir. Luckily, they spend their time vying for power over each other, instead of working together and focusing on finding a way out of the city for good. That, in itself, has probably done much to save the outside world from the evils within the ruins."
Looking around, Arrak sighs. "That, I fear, is all I know about Fae Skiemir, and more than you are likely to find in most libraries. I hope the information provides somewhat useful, though I would caution you again to think long and hard before making this trip. Someone, or some few, will surely die before you are through." He frowns into his cup, the drains the last sip as he finishes his story.
Draax Thursday June 21st, 2007 6:52:12 PM
Draax sits quietly as he listens to Arrak, "Thank you. That is much more than we knew five minutes ago. I am sure it will come in handy."
Jova Thursday June 21st, 2007 8:48:03 PM
Jova is incognito. Barely there. A foul mood has enteted his brain, and he cant shake it.
OOC-Very sick in real life.
Horvis Thursday June 21st, 2007 9:16:00 PM
The centaur kneels towards Arrak, thanking the dragon for what information he is able to share.
"Thank you, sir. My companions and I will need every scrap of information that we can acquire before going to such a place."
Horvis cannot help but wonder if the warped magic of Fae Skiemir is a trap for people just like his companions. At least, if pressed, they might be able to play one faction off against another. Just like running through a pack of lions when fleeing from a pack of hyenas, hopefully some of the pursuers get distracted.
Juliander d20+15=34 Thursday June 21st, 2007 11:52:56 PM
Listening to the stories of Lord Arrak, Juliander does his best to recall any additional stories he may have heard regarding that legendary city.
(OOC: Bardic Knowledge check DC 34)
Arien Friday June 22nd, 2007 2:02:17 AM
Arien bows to Arrak and thanks him for the information as well. The elven mage was in a pensive mood and had been since they were given their destination. It would almost be a homecoming of sorts.
Tratain Friday June 22nd, 2007 7:33:49 AM
Tratain thanks Lord Arrak for the information he has imparted. He says "Do you have anything you can tell us regarding the location to the entrence to where we are going? We know basically where it is, but nothing specific. Or anything about what guards it right now? I have been told that the guardians change periodically and was wondering if you knew what was guarding it now so we could come up with a way to get past it if it won't let us through."
Izen Friday June 22nd, 2007 2:32:51 PM
Izen listened attentively to Arrak's description of the city, then nodded and signaled his thanks with a hand-over-fist salute. There was something about the halfling that seemed different recently, almost ... vibrant.
Monthor Saturday June 23rd, 2007 10:35:21 AM
Monthor leans on his axe and waits. This talking stuff is left best to others.
Meeting with Arrak (continued) Monday June 25th, 2007 9:53:24 AM
Arrak smiles and listens to the various comments. To Tratain, he says, "I must confess, I have not actively studied Fae Skiemir in some time. I know it can be entered through the Valley of Humiliations, but beyond that, I fear I cannot help you.
"You must also understand, I have to be careful of what I say to you. Of course, it isn't that I would ever withhold aid from you, but I do know that the Consortium wishes you to deal with this issue alone with no outside aid. For your own good, I would not risk breaching that rule inadvertently."
In the meantime, Juliander wracks his brain to come up with any additional information about Fae Skiemir.
He recalls a bit of story he heard once regarding the magical curse upon the city. Something about seeking treasure for the wrong purposes, and that the seeker was compelled to remain in the city. It is hard to remember the source of the information, or the entire tale.
Juliander also recalls something about the monsters inhabiting the city. He read something once about their being able to "smell" or "sense" large amounts of gold or magic, and that they were drawn to it when they caught the scent.
He of course remembered bits and pieces of Arrak's tale from other sources, but these are the only additional pieces of information he can recall.
Tratain Monday June 25th, 2007 3:46:53 PM
Tratain says "Aye, We understand Lord Arrak. I just thought I'd ask anyways. Any information we can get will be usefull."
OOC: Bought Item Distribution: Heres What we bought, I tried to split up the Buffing wands as evenly as possible. Let me know if you'd like to switch something or you can't cast something. No one responded to my e-mail so posting it here to make sure everyone see's this.
Portable Hole - 20,000 - Currently Tratain Wand of Protection from Evil (3rd Level) - 2,250 (Arcane) Jova Wand of Restoration - 26,000 (Divine) - Tratain Wand of Stoneskin - 33,500 (Arcane) Arien Wand of Death Ward - 21,000 (Divine) Horvis Wand of Resist Energy (11th Level) - 16,500 (Divine) Tratain Wand of Align Weapon - 4,500 (Divine) Tratain Wand of Magic Missile (9th Level) - 6,750 (Arcane) Arien Wand of Cure Serious Wounds - 11,250 (Divine) Tratain Wand of Invisibility - 4,500 (Arcane) - Juliander 1 Stone Salve - 4,000 - Tratain Fly Potion x10 - 7,500 - 2 Tratain, 2 Jova, 2 Juliander, 2 Draax, 1 Arien, 1 Horvis Stone to Flesh Scroll x3 - 4,950 (Arcane) Arien Scroll of Dimension Door x10 - 7,000 (Arcane) 2 Arien, 4 Jova, 4 Juliander Scroll of Greater Dispel Magic (15th Level) x5 - 11,250 (2x Divine; 3x Arcane) 2 - Tratain; 1 Arien, 2 Jova Scroll of Neutralize Poison x5 - 1,875 (Divine) - 2 Tratain, 3 Horvis Scroll of Mass Heal x3 - 11,465 (Divine) - Tratain 2x Small Statuettes Worth 1,500 Each - 3,000 (Material Component for Refuge spell) - 1 Tratain; 1 Izen 7000gp in diamond dust. - To be Split (Currently Tratain Holding) Wand of Obscuring Mist, 750gp - Tratain
Draax Monday June 25th, 2007 8:12:06 PM
Draax helps himself to an extra helping of refreshments before letting the other know that he is ready to depart.
Horvis Monday June 25th, 2007 10:19:22 PM
The centaur listens to what both Arrak and Juliander have to say about Fae Skiemir. The trip sounds interesting, either way. But also potentially deadly.
When Tratain distributes the items, Horvis looks at the items allocated to him.
"Sorry to say, but I can't use either the wand or the scrolls. I can't cast either Neutralize Poison, or Death Ward and I can't use items that do."
"As for the Fly potion, better give it to someone else. I can fly in many of the forms that I can take."
Izen Monday June 25th, 2007 11:11:56 PM
The halfling continued to listen (ooc: as Kup continued to get hammered in RL by work and family commitments! A CS and a finalize CC trip to come RSN).
Juliander Monday June 25th, 2007 11:40:04 PM
"From what I can remember about stories that I've heard regarding Fae Skiemir, is that the creatures there can smell large concentrations of gold or magic. So... it is safe to say that we'll stick out like a sore thumb. Also, we have to be careful about the 'whys' of what we're doing. I believe that a man searching for treasure in Fae Skiemir, for the sake of being rich, was cursed to remain there for all time." The bard sits with a less-than-pleased look on his face about their impending journey, though he is determined to see it through nonetheless.
Meeting with Arrak (continued) Tuesday June 26th, 2007 10:02:50 AM
After a bit more smalltalk, Arrak stands and sighs. "I'm sorry to say I must depart you now. You have a long and arduous road ahead, one that I do not envy.
"Once I have deciphered the correspondence you brought me from the Dread, I will certainly be in touch. Of course, you should pay a visit anytime you like, or use the charm I gave you to communicate.
"Don't use it on this trip, though. Again, the whole 'providing help' thing. I don't want an innocent conversation to be misconstrued.
"Tell me, before you leave, how do you plan to get to your destination?"
Tratain Tuesday June 26th, 2007 5:06:53 PM
Tratain says "Thank you for the information that you provided us Lord Arrak. I think we will just continue on to the village we stayed at last time we traveled to the valley. Spend the night there and enter the valley early the next morning."
ADM Joe Tuesday June 26th, 2007 5:12:38 PM
Posting Report for week ending Friday June 22nd
M T W R F DM NA X X O Tratain NA X X O Jova NA O X O Monthor NA X X O Izen NA X X O Arien NA O X O Horvis NA X X O Draax NA X X O Juliander NA X X O
OOC: Tratain will then Carry that wand and those scrolls aswell, I wasn't aware until I went looking that the Shifter couldn't use any of those.
Juliander Tuesday June 26th, 2007 8:38:46 PM
Overhearing Horvis, "Tratain, if you like I'll be happy to use the scrolls and wand. I have a knack for making magic items obey me, even if they aren't spells that I can normally cast. It is usually a matter of the proper application of the will." Juliander smiles.
Draax Tuesday June 26th, 2007 9:15:12 PM
Draax listens to Tratain's suggested route to travel. "That sounds like a good plan."
Horvis Tuesday June 26th, 2007 9:24:54 PM
The centaur also agrees with Tratain's plan of travel.
"I have not been there before, so I shall follow your lead. Can you relate any of the landmarks in case I am separated somehow?"
Horvis waits in case his companions tell him something of the route to the Valley.
Jova Kon Tuesday June 26th, 2007 10:50:23 PM
The tall human sorcerer listens closely to the discussion as always. He agrees with what is said, and takes the items proffered him.
"During the trip we should formulate some sort of battle plan. One where we know where each other will be. All this magic will do no good if it cant reach those in need."
Izen Wednesday June 27th, 2007 7:21:06 AM
The halfling, too, appeared in agreement, although tense. "We need reinforcements," he muttered.
Monthor Wednesday June 27th, 2007 7:56:13 AM
" Agreed with the travel plan. And me vote for Tratain for war captain. We'll need someone to bark orders during a frey and since he already has the looks of a dog.... just kidding cleric.... "
" Tratain, are ye still gonna be casting magic vestments and magic weapon blessings on us in the morn as before? "
Leaving Arrak's Lair Wednesday June 27th, 2007 9:13:55 AM
"All very good plans," Arrak says with a nod. "I will leave you now to your adventures. Please stay here to formulate your plans if you wish." He stands, gives a low bow, then leaves the room. Two of the halflings are standing by the door, poised to fulfill any requests.
As the group converses for a few minutes, Arrak suddenly reappears. "Ahem...it seems there is a new development at hand. I just spoke to our mutual friend Onrad, who gave me this message for you." He hands a slip of paper to Tratain.
The paper says, "We are sending another to join on your quest. We will send this one to meet you along the way. Please give Arrak a password that can be communicated so that you will know our mutual friend when the time comes."
"It seems you will be getting more help," Arrak comments. "If you would like to give me some sort of code word to pass along to Onrad, I will be happy to do so. That way, you will know this newcomer for a friend."
Tratain's research back in Plateau City yielded the following information, along with what is above.
There is a magical gateway on a cliff at the end of the Valley of Humiliation. It requires some sort of key to use, though the key changes every so often. One must employ the proper divination magic to determine the current key.
Monthor Wednesday June 27th, 2007 12:24:39 PM
" How about.... SNAGLEPUSS!!! "
Juliander Wednesday June 27th, 2007 8:28:56 PM
Juliander remains quiet regarding battle plans, since he is perfectly happy with Monthor's suggestion of Tratain as war captain. When Tratain shares his information regarding the gate, "I'm capable of casting legend lore, given the proper components and foci, which I do not have at the moment. However, I'm not sure that is the proper spell. Perhaps something of a divine nature might be more in order."
Horvis Wednesday June 27th, 2007 9:29:25 PM
The centaur cocks his head and scrapes at the ground with one front hoof. He listens to what Tratain reported from his research and Juliander's response.
"I can cast divination magic like this, too. If we have the possible keys, my spell would tell me the correct one to use for opening the door."
Jova Kon Wednesday June 27th, 2007 11:16:36 PM
Jova listens to the Dragon with reverence. Seems their would be no direct way in. It would be good to go through a portal then.
Draax Thursday June 28th, 2007 12:07:14 AM
Draax listens as the other discuss various magical ways of determining the key. He keeps quiet because he is barely able to follow the conversation.
The Password Thursday June 28th, 2007 9:23:57 PM
Arrak frowns and grimaces slightly at Monthor. "Yes . . . well . . . That being the only suggestion . . ." Arrak sighs. "Snagglepuss it is . . . ."
Looking somewhat put out, he says, "That bit you just recalled about the gateway. I do remember something about the keys. You can determine what the given key may be at a certain time, but I seem to remember having to be in close proximity to the gateway when using the magic. I am unsure as to how accurate this is, though.
"In any case," he says with a slight bow, "I bid you farewell again, and good luck on your journey."
He strides out of the room, mumbling something about "indignity . . . telling Onrad . . . password . . . ." and you are again left alone to determine your course of action.
------------------------------------------- OOC: I'm going to refrain from posting to give you all time to decide your course and manner of travel. As soon as that's done, I'll pick up and we can be off.
Draax Friday June 29th, 2007 12:24:11 AM
Once Arrak leaves Draax turns to the others. "If possible, let's use the wind walking spell or some other means of flying for the first part of the trip. If we take horses, we will have to leave them behind at some point. Flying will also make it harder to following our trail. What do you guys think?"
Arien Friday June 29th, 2007 1:48:52 AM
Arien ponders a moment over the various spells they might be able to use for travel before he speaks, "I agree with Draax that the Wind Walk spell would work best in this situation."
Izen Friday June 29th, 2007 8:28:51 AM
"Yes, let's Wind Walk again."
Juliander Friday June 29th, 2007 9:10:52 AM
"I'm indifferent as to how we get there. Wind-walking is just as good as any mode of transportation... well, likely better." The bard smiles.
Monthor Friday June 29th, 2007 12:05:46 PM
" Works for me. As long as me don't have to ride on home four legged hell beast me be fine."
Tratain Friday June 29th, 2007 4:31:01 PM
Tratain says "We have many more hours left on the Windwalk spell I cast this morning, let continue on to the town, I believe it was called Edenmore and spend the night there. I think I recall being told not to be in the Valley and night under any circumstances."
Horvis Friday June 29th, 2007 10:30:10 PM
The centaur nods in acknowledgement with the proposed travel plan.
"I can help with the next spell, or fly by myself if that is needed. Of course, I don't know the way so someone will have to serve as the guide."
Arien Saturday June 30th, 2007 2:48:09 AM
"Well then, the faster we start the sooner we get there, shall we go?"
Walking on Wind Saturday June 30th, 2007 3:20:45 PM
After the meeting ends, you leave the cavern and head out into the bright, clear daylight. With no further ado, at Tratain's command each of you becomes somewhat insubstantial and almost see-through, as your bodies float into the air once again. Tratain points to the west, and a breeze begins moving you in that direction.
After a few seconds, the breeze turns into a strong wind, propelling you overland at an incredible rate. Flying low, you coast over the treetops, and the world looks like a blur of green and brown as you cross the monster preserve.
Streaking over a clearing, you see a group of drow below, their hair suddenly blowing in their faces from the wind, looking up in wonder at what must appear to be ghosts floating by overhead. They are soon out of sight, and the edge of the plateau comes into view.
Arcing over the edge, the wind suddenly takes you downward at high speed, and just before you plummet into the earth, it levels you out and keeps you speeding westward.
After a short time, you fly over what must be the Peaseblossom River, and slow almost to a stop while the group gets its bearings. THe Culverwood looks to be a bit north of you, so you turn south and follow the river, a bit more slowly now so as not to overshoot your intended destination.
Another fifteen minutes go by, and you see a small town come into view. Coming closer, some of you recognize it as Edenmoor. Tratain sets you down a mile or so outside, assuming it might be a bit less disconcerting for the townsfolk if you didn't gust into town in cloud form.
Setting down, your bodies take on their normal composition and color. You are off to the side of a well-worn road, and ahead of you lies Edenmoor. A few people are on the road, either walking or riding horse-drawn carts into our away from town. A family is passing nearby, the father leading a horse laden with goods, a mother trying to contain two small children who are pointing at you and shouting with excitement. After a moment, the mother gets the children under control, and thefamily moves on toward the town.
Tratain Sunday July 1st, 2007 9:49:16 PM
Tratain says "Lets head into town and find an Inn to stay at, hopefully the person that is meeting us can find us. We will head down into the valley in the morning. We were told that we would need Divination spells when we get there to find out what opens the portal. Horvis perhapse a find the path spells would do it. Anyone have any other Ideas what spells we could use to determine what we need?"
Draax Monday July 2nd, 2007 2:36:23 AM
Draax nods his head, "Sound good. Hopefully he or she will contact us soon. I doubt if he/she will have a hard time finding us. I am sure that they told the person to find the group with the ugliest dwarf around."
Monthor Monday July 2nd, 2007 7:16:45 AM
" Did someone say... 'INN'?!?!?!? "
Juliander Monday July 2nd, 2007 10:46:12 AM
Juliander smiles at Monthor, "Would you prefer an OUT?" The bard can appreciate Monthor's enthusiasm for the taproom, since he spend most of his developmental years performing in them.
Into Edenmoor Monday July 2nd, 2007 4:46:23 PM
Once you regain balance and get your feet properly under you, everyone moves to the road and heads into town.
It's a short walk, and the day is still warm and bright. There is a short wait at the town wall, as the numerous travelers all attempt to funnel into Edenmoor at once, but with a few guards trying to keep order and move people along, you are inside in only a few minutes.
There is talk of finding a good inn. As you walk down the street, looking for a suitable location, street vendors and merchants crowd around. Recognizing wealth when they see it, they push you to buy anything and everything they can offer. One woman is hawking meat pies to your left, while a man following on your right swears he has a magic rod that always points the way to treasure.
You are able to inquire as to suitable inns, and you receive multiple suggestions to pay a visit to the Golden Swan. Heading in the direction told to you, the Swan's sign comes into view about a hundred paces ahead.
As you walk toward the inn, you notice one of the townsfolk that stands out quite a bit from the rest. A large liontaur seems to have taken an interest in your group, and is following you down the street. He does not look away when you glance back at him, and in fact, it seems he is hurrying to catch up to you.
-------------------------------------------- OOC: Stephen, you're free to start posting as of now.
Liontaur Monday July 2nd, 2007 8:33:48 PM
A stout and muscular liontaur gracefully bounds a last few strides to stand before the group about 15 feet away. His thick coat has long black stripes across his shoulders, barrel, and haunches and are startling against his white fur. Large mutton chops and stiff white hair frame his blunt bronzed face and almond shaped black eyes. On his human torso, he wears a brightly colored felt tunic of blue shot through with yellow, black, white, and red geometric designs around the cuffs, collar, and hem.
He is obviously a warrior: sword scabbard and javelin case across his broad back, more sheaths about his waist, and there is a jingling of armor beneath the blue tunic.
"You are warriors." The easy baritone is a statement, not a question. "As you are the only ones through here in a week that fit that description, I think you must be the Grey Knights that Onrad told me about."
He stands still and confident, the white striped tail slowly lashing back and forth. It looks like your turn to talk.
Draax Monday July 2nd, 2007 9:04:15 PM
Draax looks the lion creature up and down. "You recognized us from the description of the dwarf, right? Anyway, if you know Onrad, he should have gave you a word to say that identifies you as the one he sent."
Draax listens to the comments of the others and waits for the liontaur to say the password.
Monthor Monday July 2nd, 2007 10:11:55 PM
"Why yes Draax, we handsome, intelligent, well dressed and wise looking dwarves are indeed rare in these parts. "
[BURPPPPPP!!!! ]
" Oh, and don't forget, 'well manored' . "
" 'Sup Lion-O. "
Izen Monday July 2nd, 2007 11:56:58 PM
The halfling arched an eyebrow at Monthor's "liono," but said nothing. He studied the liontaur with interest.
ooc: DM, I know, I'm still delinquent a CS, and now I'm falling behind on posts, too. RL is serious biting right now. Hopefully some free time over the 4th.
DM OOC Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 1:42:20 PM
By the way, please feel free to post extra in the interest of conversation with the mysterious liontaur.
Lumi-Juova Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 5:23:14 PM
The bronzed face gives a tight-lipped smile at the elf, dwarf, and halfling and the other more mute members with them. "And since you know there IS a word, you are perhaps the people I seek."
"I am Lumi-Juova, in the common tongue called Snow-Stripe. I am no snagglepuss, not long in the tooth nor a mewling babe. I bring my skill as a wilder hunter to the Harmaa Ritari in support of our mutual goals." The announcement is made with a confident posture that announces his skill as much as his words.
His black striped white tail lashes his sides. "Perhaps further conversation as to what those goals are and about our mutual acquaintances should be done more privately?"
He looks to Draax with a flick of an ear.
Draax Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 5:50:21 PM
"Great..uh...Lumi-Juova" Draax tries to pronounce the name correctly. "We were just on our way to an inn." He briefly looks for approving nods from the others before extending an invitation to the lion man. "Please join us." Draax points to the Golden Swan sign. Mumbling under his breath he says. "I hope the inn has accommodations for centaurs and liontaurs."
Monthor Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 8:26:45 PM
" New guy pays for the beer!!!! "
And with that, Monthor trots along to the Inn like a child going to a toy store.
" Hey Lion-O... you arm wrestle????? For money???? "
Juliander Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 8:36:43 PM
As they continue to proceed toward the Golden Swan, Juliander, who was initially entranced by the appearance of the liontaur smiles eagerly and draws even with the creature, "Well met good sir. My name is Juliander Phaelix and, not unlike yourself, only recently have I found myself in the company of the Knights."
Human, Juliander is nearly six feet tall and lanky in build. He has meticulously cared for short black hair, and jade green eyes that suggest elven heritage, though perhaps twice or even three times removed. He currently wears a plain traveling outfit of tan breeches, dark brown boots, and a moss green tunic. The only notable clothing apparent is a fine jade green cloak and gloves (matches his eyes), with silver trim that seem clean despite his otherwise road-worn appearance. A rapier hangs off his left hip, worn with apparent comfort, and a crossbow is lashed to the back of his pack and quiver.
Horvis Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 9:33:58 PM
The centaur looks at the liontaur with concern and trepidation. While relations between their peoples were generally neutral, Horvis still feels that primal instinctive concern when meeting an obligate carnivore. Still, he knew the password so this should be the companion mentioned by the dragon.
"I am Horvis, originally of Centaur Isle. I wandered for some time before I joined with these people."
"We try to keep Monthor on an even keel. Please do not encourage him."
The centaur is tall and heavily built, even for one of the equine persuasion. Certainly more of a draft horse than a show pony. Still, Horvis' tanned skin flows into a dark chestnut coat that darkens to black in his tail and hooves. Horvis is clad in what seems to be a modified version of leather horse barding, although the visible portions seem to be more finely made than most.
"You are welcome, Lumi-Juova."
Jova Kon Tuesday July 3rd, 2007 9:54:38 PM
Standing at the rear of the group, his normal position, Jova notices the strange liontaur right off. Indeed this was surely the one that was fortold of. Z, Jov'a hawk familiar is flying above, Jova mentally sigmnals the newcomer.
Jova is tall, about 6 and a half feet to be exact. His towering frame is broken up by differing colors of browms. Longcoat, hat, vest shirt, pants, moccasins, all different browns. His face is bronzed by the sun, but intelligent and clever looking.
Jova tips his hat at the liontaur and says, "Jova Kon."
Lumi-Juova Wednesday July 4th, 2007 10:44:42 AM
Keeping to the center of the street, Lumi walks with suppressed power towards the Golden Swan. He nods and smiles his closed smile to each of the Grey Knights that introduce themselves.
To Monthor; "I never drink beer, small one, and I will also decline a contest of arms." He pauses a moment, then smiles a little wider. "I don't think Lion-o is the correct word. Properly, I do not think there are any lions in the Ice Vien."
To Juliander; "Then we will learn of these Ritari together."
To Horvis; "Ah, Monthor, I hadn't known the small ones name. And in Plateau City I studied a large map that had the Tauric Isles on it. Is this Centaur Isle one of those?"
Lumi give a return nod and small smile to Jova, but seems as hesitant as the tall human in striking up further conversation.
Once at the Inn, Lumi is content to follow the Knights to a private area to discuss further information. He orders a huge flaggon of fruit juice, and waits with the patience of the hunter he is.
Draax Wednesday July 4th, 2007 9:11:19 PM
Once inside the inn, Draax inquires about available rooms for the group and some food to eat.
Juliander Thursday July 5th, 2007 10:09:57 AM
With a look of interested confusion on his face, "Ritari? I'm not familiar with this term Lumi-Juova. What does it mean?"
Juliander seconds Draax's request for food and lodging, ordering a pint of ale as well.
The Golden Swan Thursday July 5th, 2007 10:46:47 AM
The inn is reached quickly, especially with Monthor capering ahead and vigorously pointing to the door.
As the party enters, you see a half-full common room, mostly men sitting over their mugs and keeping to themselves. THe innkeeper, busy polishing a pewter mug behind the bar, smiles excitedly - and greedily? - as he sees nine newcomers enter the tavern-room. His smile quickly fades when he notices two of them are quite enormous.
Walking up to you, he says, "Welcome . . . um, yes, welcome good sirs! I . . . we . . . could I get you some drinks? Something to eat?" Eying the two taurs, he says quietly, "Begging your eternal pardon, masters, but would you be planning to spend the night? I do not . . . er, that is, we may have to make some . . . special accomodations for a few of you."
Yammering like a fool, he leads you to a private room with a long table and a few shelves of old, dusty books. Leaving you there, he runs for the kitchens, and a few minutes later, servants return with pitchers of beer, wine and fruit juice, and plates of fruits, bread and cheese, and various spiced meats.
The servants set the meal and leave, and you notice the door can be locked on the inside, so as not to be bothered by the innkeeper or his employees.
Lumi-Jouva Thursday July 5th, 2007 4:29:02 PM
"A word from my native tongue, Juliander", explains Lumi. "Ritari means knight, and Harmaa is my word for 'Grey'. If this group is going to truely display the power and compassion of true knights, whatever thier color, I will be well-pleased to be part of this company."
The large tiger-striped wemic squeezes his 9 foot length into the room with his confident smile intact, if only barely. "Meat!", Lumi calls deeply to the innkeeper. "And a fruit juice in the largest container you have! As for accomodations", he smiles his closed-lip smile, I will do nicely in your courtyard or the nearby village green." He scratches a hind foot on the floor, "I don't think I would like these hard floors."
Following his newly introduced companions into the room, Lumi will find a corner to curl up in with a haunch and his bowl. His elongated canines flash as he rips into the meat. He pours a libation on the floor before drinking noisily.
His ears twitch to catch the voice of Draax, waiting for when he will begin the meeting.
Jova Kon Thursday July 5th, 2007 7:35:41 PM
Jova follows the others into the inn, entering last of course. He sends a mental image to the hawk to sand guard, and warn if anything odd approaches. He moves in close to the new member, trying to get used to his smell. Bad or good, it is his way.
Alongside the lionatuar he watches the beast carefully. Only having ever met one other of this race it was invigorating. And the oddly colored animal, stripes of all things. If Lumi catches him observing, he will just smile and continue.
Arien Thursday July 5th, 2007 8:10:12 PM
Arien browses the books while the group is waiting for food and picking one out at random, begins to leaf through it. When the food arrives Arien pours himself a glass of wine and asks if anyone else would like some. Then the elven mage dishes himself some fruit and takes a seat, absently eating an appple and browsing the book while waiting for the meeting to start.
Draax Thursday July 5th, 2007 8:16:49 PM
Draax smiles at the innkeeper. "Yes sir, we will be staying two days and can you make those special accommodations for my friends." He knows the group will probably leave this town in the morning, but decides not to convey that information to the innkeeper.
Once they are in the private room he waits until all the food and drinks are served and then ask the innkeeper to not disturb them until they exit the room.
Turning his attention to Lumi-Jouva, Draax says, "I am sorry that I did not introduce myself before now. I do not know how much was passed onto you by Onrad, so I suggest that those of us that have not already introduced ourselves do so now. Then you can fill us in on how much Onrad has conveyed to you and we can fill you in with the rest."
"I am Draax, as you can see I am a half-elf. Our current group name is the Grey Knight, but a few of us (points to Monthor, Arien, and Tratian) were known as the Windhorn Hamleteers before we were put together with Javo, Horvis, Juliander, and Izen."
Draax stands about 5'9", wearing chainmail, a bow and quiver full of arrows, and swords; all in excellent condition.
Lumi-Juova Thursday July 5th, 2007 9:24:46 PM
While eating, Lumi keeps an eye on Jova and Arien, sniffing and feeling the air about all the Grey Knights.
Noisily chewing the meat, Lumi swallows the current chunk he was working on. "No apologies necessary, Draxx." The wemic savors the name as he once was tasting the meat. "When the hunt is on, the less noise the better. And perhaps there are those who hunt you?" He shakes his head, his stiff white hair flexing at the motion.
"I have little to tell you. Until recently, I thought I was the last of my kind, hunting the frozen tundra of the Ice Vien, keeping the sparse villages safe from aberrrations and other magical beasts. A dream quest brought me to Omrad and the Golden Dragons. They told me I had the potential to be more than a local guardian, to become a guardian for all the good creatures of the Wold." The black eyes are wide with remembered wonder. "I spent a month in that fabulous Plateau City, learning more about the Wold outside of the Ice Vien. And then, Omrad called me to him again. He told me that I had potential, but could not be a part of the Dragon Consortium yet. That there were others that were also learning about what it was to be a Dragon. And that he would send me to meet with a group called the Grey Knights."
Like a cat stalking to a mouse, Lumi becomes more stiff, as if obsessed in the thought of a hunt. "There I will to learn how to work in a group, and the Harmaa Ritari in turn, would benefit from my skills as a hunterrr and warriorrr." At the end, Lumi is panting in a low growl, his teeth show and his black eyes glint a disturbing red. Yet with a shake of his head, the feralness seems to come under control, and the confident Lumi shines once more from his face.
"So, I am here to learn and to protect. Where we go, it matters not to me."
Monthor Thursday July 5th, 2007 9:51:17 PM
As they enter the Inn Monthor yells out... " BEER!!! AND LOTS OF IT!!! "
After he gets handed is first of many drinks.. Monthor whispers to the servants...
{ The lion guy is paying... }
After they sit and Draax introduces him to Lumi...
" 'Sup newfriendwiththeweirdpreferencesindrinks. Welcome again to the Knights."
Horvis Thursday July 5th, 2007 10:16:05 PM
The centaur selects a variety of foods - fruits, vegetables and breads, mainly - before moving to stand in the corner. Despite everything, he will probably need to spend his night outside with the new liontaur. Horvis looks over as Lumi-Juova tears into another piece of meat. The shifter can't really say anything, since he has eaten his share of flesh when in the form of a predator, but he has always found that attitude follows form. When in his native form, he still experiences some of the instinctive reactions of his centaur forefathers.
Otherwise, Horvis patiently waits for the meeting to begin.
Tratain Thursday July 5th, 2007 11:23:53 PM
Tratain sits with the others eating he says "Lumi, can you tell us what kind of skills you posses so that we would know how best to work you into our battle plans. The rest of us have traveled together long enough so that we know what the others are most likely to do. I would like to know where to fit you into our battle plans."
OOC:please delete the first post I made. I didn't read carefully enough a few posts back :) [Deleted - Marcin]
Discussion over Dinner Friday July 6th, 2007 9:50:00 AM
The innkeeper bows to Draax and says, "Yes good sirs, two night indeed. As for those accommodations . . . . There are two choices: my men here could refurbish this and another room on the ground floor for temporary sleeping quarters, or I could have the courtyard blocked off if you much prefer. 'Course, all the rooms have windows looking into the courtyard . . . patrons might get a bit nervous . . . . But whatever you request, masters!" he finishes while nervously glancing at the two taurs.
The room is cleared of servants, and the door locked. Arien peruses the shelf of books and picks one, blowing the dust off the wooden cover. The Adventures of Marros Moonshadow. Grabbing a snack, he sits down and skims the pages, which are filled with the ridiculous and fantastical pseudo-adventures of an elven thief from Dirt City who spent his days tricking women out of the jewelry, and his nights gambling the spoils away.
Monthor busies himself filling his belly with ale, apparently leaving little room for actual food. Jova and Horvis eat quietly and observe the newcomer, the former quite open about his curiousity, the latter a bit pensive as he watches Lumi-Juova rip through a haunch of beef.
The liontaur explains how he arrived in Edenmoor to join with the Knights, although it becomes clearer and clearer he doesn't exactly know what he is getting himself in to as far as the current mission is concerned.
After introductions are done, Tratain begins discussing battle tactics in earnest.
Draax Friday July 6th, 2007 2:45:54 PM
Draax answers the innkeeper, "The two ground floor rooms will be fine. We do not want to cause any discomfort to you or your customers."
Draax bites on some fruit as he listens to the others and continues to look over their new comrade. Onrad's blessing is enough to welcome the lion-man into the team without any serious challenge, but Draax wonders if Lumi knows what he is getting himself into by associating himself with the Knights. Draax decides to clue the liontaur in on some of the things to expect with the Knights.
"Onrad's recommendation is good enough to welcome you to travel with us and even join us as a member if that is your wish. But both of those choices will put you in a lot of danger. First, let's get the group's hierarchy out of the way; the group does not have a leader and everyone's opinions are welcome. If someone has an idea and no one has a better idea then we go with it. In battle situations or other situations that we need to move as a group, Tratain is the leader and we take our clues from him. Do not hesitate to offer any talent that you have that might help in a situation.
Second, many things that we come across can only be damaged by magical or special types of weapons. I hope you have some weapons or spells of that nature that will help keep you and us alive.
And the last thing is to never get caught up in the dwarf's battle frenzy. He would start a fight with a dragon if it looked at him the wrong way or he thought he could get a drink out of it."
Draax watches the lion-man for any non-verbal feedback to what was said and waits to hear what he has to say.
Lumi-Juova Friday July 6th, 2007 4:56:46 PM
The liontaur listens intently to Draax and Tratain, his ear flicks occasionally but his black eyes never waver. He gracefully bows to the cleric from the waist. "I understand. We are as a pride without an alpha male, a family together. Yet the Cleric of Tomi is the war-leader, and I will follow his instructions on the hunt. I will not promise to follow always", he cautions, "for I sometimes have the Punainen-Silma come over me, and all I want is the blood of my enemies on my sword."
He reaches around his shoulder and slowly pulls a hand-and-half sword from its sheath, placing it upon the table. As he brings it out, the bastard sword glows as if a Light spell is upon it. "Perhaps this is magical enough? It is a sharp blade and keen, and in the morning, I can demonstrate my fighting prowess."
"But where are you bound and travel? If you seek a trail, I am versed in reading the signs, and I can travel very quietly while seeking the Ritari's prey."
Monthor Friday July 6th, 2007 7:37:18 PM
[Draax]
And the last thing is to never get caught up in the dwarf's battle frenzy. He would start a fight with a dragon if it looked at him the wrong way or he thought he could get a drink out of it."
[Monthor]
{ BUUUURP!!! }
" True.... very true indeed.... How big of a dragon????... "
:: Shrugs his shoulders. ::
" Not that it would matter... Me've died for me boys before Lion-O [ooc> A Thundercats reference for those that didn't get it. ] and me would gladly do it again. They be more then me friends. They be family. And now, you be me family as well. Ye watch me boys' back with yer big arsed sword and me will watch yours with me big arsed axe. Agreed?
So ye know, Me be kind to little furry animals, young ones of all good species, and 1/2 wits... that's you Draax... but me HATES { emphasized by crushing his ale mug in his hand } BULLIES!! Ye not a bully are ye Lion-O?
Draax Friday July 6th, 2007 10:39:24 PM
Draax smiles at the soon to be drunken dwarf. "How many times do I have to tell you, I am a half-elf."
Draax looks at the big sword that Lumi placed on the table and nods his head. "Yea that will do fine."
"We are going to a place that if we survive, we will have proven our commitment to the Consortium or at least I hope it will. I hesitate to say the name is the place while we are in town. I doubt if it would do any harm, but you never know.
We will have the opportunity to rid the wold of a little evil and the chance to pocket some coins. We already know the path for the first part of our journey, but the second half will rely on more of a magical nature or at least that is what I get from the discussions. I do know that it is not a place that we cannot simply walk, ride, or fly to.
I am sure you path finding skills will come in handy, especially during the second part of our journey and at our destination."
Jova Kon Saturday July 7th, 2007 3:12:41 AM
Jova listens, smiles often. Draax had never talked this much, it was nice to hear. Monthor, was vintage Monthor. The others reserved as always. He knew it was not untrust, it was more regular personalities.
So Lumi was a fighter type like monthor. Hopefully he proved to be in between Monthor and Horvis as far as get to the fight attitude. This was definately going to be interesting.
Arien Saturday July 7th, 2007 4:09:59 AM
Arien closes the book and slides it forward until it rests roughly a foot in front of him on the table. The mage absently rests his head on one hand and regards the book a moment before looking at Lumi-Juova. "I apologize for not introducing myself earlier, I am somewhat distracted by our destination. It will be...interesting to see what has become of my people's ancient city."
Arien places a hand on his chest and continues, "I am Arien Silverbow and as you might have guessed by my garb I am a wizard. I specialize in particular with the shaping and manipulation of energy. As for a demonstration of your martial prowess, unless you feel that you need to do so I do not think that that would be necessary. You would not be here if Onrad did not think you worthy and that endorsement is all that you need as far as I am concerned."
Juliander Saturday July 7th, 2007 6:27:39 PM
Juliander remains quiet and withdrawn throughout the evening. Considering their current destination, it may be possible that the bard is in over his head, though he wouldn't miss experiencing this journey for anything. Assuming they make it, the story would be worth the telling and retelling.
OOC: I'm out for the next two weeks, though I've arranged for Adam/Arien to post on my behalf. He has an updated copy of Juliander's character sheet.
Izen Sunday July 8th, 2007 10:32:39 PM
The halfling, unusually quiet even for him, listened on.
ooc: a thousand apologies for my absence! Crazy week. Back again, now. DM Matt, hope to put together an updated CS tomorrow.
Tratain Sunday July 8th, 2007 11:30:24 PM
Tratain sits back and listens to the conversation. He says "Well, once everyone has had thier fill we should get some rest. We leave early tomorrow. When we are outside of Town Lumi-Jouva we will tell you where we are bound for, its not a place to speak of outloud where we can be easily overheard."
Lumi-Juova Monday July 9th, 2007 1:12:54 PM
In the Tavern at Night To Monthor, Lumi tries to emulate the nonchalance of Draax. "To watch your back is a reason I was sent, Monthor", agrees the white liontaur, "and after a few times of saving each other's lives, we might indeed become family." Lumi ignores the dwarf's other remark.
He flicks an occasional ear at the allusions, but no definite information on where the Grey Knights are bound for, but then shrugs. "Tomorrow is soon enough for tomorrow's problems", he says philisophically. Though his ears do perk at Arien's reference to 'his people's' ancient city.
Lumi's black eyes look warily back at Arien and give him a slow nod in recognition of his introduction. "If we are war-comrades, it would be good for the cleric of Tomi to know my fighting style and use that in deciding future plans. I think a demonstration will be necessary."
Lumi resheaths his sword, and returns to filling his stomachs. The accomodations of the innkeeper are adequate, though Lumi does take time at night to pad around the building to the midden heap and relieve himself before sleeping. These townsmen seem to worry overmuch about the location of waste products...
Setting Out Monday July 9th, 2007 2:26:23 PM
After dinner and discussions, everyone retires to their own sleeping quarters. The night passes uneventfully, and early the next morning, you are served a large breakfast before leaving the inn.
Once paid up, you leave the inn and head for the gate. By the time you reach the edge of town, the road is already filling with peddlers and farmers going in and out of Edenmoor about their daily business.
The guards give a nod as you pass through the gate, and once you are outside, you are presented with a choice - where do you go?
Horvis Monday July 9th, 2007 9:34:48 PM
The centaur is still not clear about the intended path. Horvis turns to his companions and asks, "Which path do we take?"
Once that is decided, he will inquire whether his companions wish him to fly overhead to scout their path. If so, Horvis will take the form of a giant eagle and take wing.
Jova Kon Monday July 9th, 2007 9:50:37 PM
Upon waking and getting ready tyo go, Jova casts a spell. I takes afew moments fot the phantom like horse to appear. Jova notes the beast is changing forms again. This variety is larger, like a work horse. His last generation of summons were fleet of foot. This one however di not look so. Also there were beginnings of what looked like fangs, and of all things, a beard. Odd. The full transformation took several weeks, but the finished product alwasy alowed for more capabilities.
Lumi-Juova d20+6=22 d20+11=22 d20+18=29 d20+13=31 d20+8=11 d20+17=28 d20+14=24 d20+13=23 d20+13=21 2d8(8+3)+5=16 2d8(5+1)+5=11 2d8(3+1)+5=9 d8+4=10 d8+4=12 d6=2 d6=6 d4+3=6 d4+3=5 d20+13=16 2d8(7+4)+5=16 Monday July 9th, 2007 10:34:38 PM
Walking out of town with his new companions, Lumi smiles in anticipation as the farmers arrive through the gate. Finding a herder, the liontaur courteously purchases a medium sized animal (pig, goat, sheep, etc) then takes it outside the walls. Being as gentle as he can, Lumi draws his puukko-knife and slits the beast's throat. "Perhaps there is an orphanage in town that would welcome meat for thier stew pot?", he asks.
Moving quickly (Profession:22), Lumi hangs the carcass upsidedown to remove any blood and ties the hind feet to the branch of a nearby tree (Use Rope:22). Finally, the liontaur turns his back and paces off away from the target of this morning's demonstration.
Lumi pauses an even hundred feet away from the carcass hanging in the tree, his bastard sword held easily in his right hand and a dull-gray axe in his left, and then...
(one round of action follows) The black striped liontaur bursts from cover, moving so fast he looks like a white streak across the grass. Arriving at the carcass, his weapons rise up and a feral shout breaks from Lumi's throat, "Haaka Paale!".
The sword viciously cuts up, then across, and back down once more. The handaxe chops left, then backhanded, miniature lightning crackling across the metal head. Two white paws flex as claws reach and tear.
In a bare six seconds it is all over, with irreparable damage smashing into the target, the carcass abruptly ceases to be anything but bits of meat and bone scattered over the grass and liontaur.
Lumi looks back at his new companions and licks up a stray hunk of meat from his face. "And that is what I am able to do for the Harmaa Ritari."
The liontaur cleans up and donates the meat chunks. Then, he lifts an arm, and a snowy owl silently glides out of the nearby trees. Settling on his shoulder, Lumi gives the owl a gobbet of flesh before once more turning to the Grey Knights.
"Now, where is the road to travel?"
Izen Monday July 9th, 2007 11:21:51 PM
Izen watched the liontaur's display with crossed arms and round eyes.
"No sheep is safe," he commented on the display, then smiled and shrugged.
Draax Tuesday July 10th, 2007 1:32:36 AM
Draax pays the innkeeper for two nights and tells the man to hold the room for them until the next day, but if they have not returned by then he should not hold the rooms any longer. Draxx knows that unless something goes terribly wrong, the group will not be returning to the town anytime soon, but a little misdirection, even one as simple as this might turned a few eye away from them.
Inwardly, Draax applauds the lion-man's quickness in being able to filter out the unimportant comments of the dwarf. It took Draax weeks to build up that type of mental control.
Draax takes a sit as his watches Lumi prepare for his demonstration. He smiles at the display when Lumi is finished, "Nicely done."
"I suggest we head toward the valley and try to get pass our first big obstacle. Hopefully it is not giant mounds again. A little scouting from above like Horvis suggested would probably let us know the quickest path to take."
Looking at Jova's phantom horse, Draax says, "I guess we can travel the rest of the way on foot."
Monthor Tuesday July 10th, 2007 8:55:54 AM
" Good against the dead is one thing... good against the living..... "
Monthor follows the others.
ooc> Is Tratain casting magic weapon/armor spells on party members in the morning?
A Stunning Display Tuesday July 10th, 2007 4:43:51 PM
Just outside the gates, Lumi decides to put on a show of prowess. Seeing the odd events unfolding, a few peasants stop to watch.
Gasps and shouts abound as the liontaur lunges forward and, in the blink of an eye, completely obliterates the goat carcass. Children scream, men stand with mouths agape, and women make a variety of warding gestures over their chests and faces before pulling their kin inside the walls.
Once the event is finished and the crowd dispersed, the group heads north on the road toward the valley of humiliation, with Horvis gliding through the air ahead of them to scout.
Traveling through the day, passers-by become fewer and fewer, and the road more and more nonexistent. In fact, you haven't passed another soul in at least 2 hours now, and the road is a distant memory to the ground under your feet.
Horvis Highlight to display spoiler: {Flying ahead to scout, you haven't seen much of interest for hours. You haven't encountered another person in at least as long. You see signs of animals here and there, but even that seems less than likely for the lightly-treed grasslands around you.
Then, up ahead, you spot a lone shape walking in the direction of the group and Edenmoor. Flying closer, it resolves into a humanoid, very short, and carrying a large pack. It looks to be a male, and he isn't moving overly quickly, or furtively, simply walking through the grass towards town. At the current pace, the group should pass within a few hundred yards of him in the next half hour.}
Horvis Tuesday July 10th, 2007 9:58:32 PM
The giant eagle spirals slowly downward until he is just over his companions. Since Horvis believes that he might have been seen, he stoops as if diving upon a small, helpless sheep or goat but once he is close to the ground he pulls up and gently lands on the path. Once his companions get close, he speaks to them in his lisping eagle voice.
"Oneth thraveller. Shorth like dwarfth. Meeth in halfth thour. Noth thiding or thneaking."
After his companions discuss this, Horvis will suggest that he return to the air and circle ahead so that he is behind the other traveller. The giant eagle leaps back into the air and begins to fly, keeping low enough to the ground that he is unlikely to be seen by the other traveller until he is behind the short one.
Lumi-Juova d20+14=26 Tuesday July 10th, 2007 10:25:47 PM
In the morning walk, Lumi remains quiet and introspective. he had intended to demonstrate to his companions that he was a valuable asset, but the way the townsfolk looked at him... The liontaur hunches his shoulders and keeps lost in his own thoughts.
Eventually, the beautiful day outdoors brings him to think of things beyond his own thoughts. Lumi scans the skies and watches the clouds, and reports to Tratain on the weather for the next couple of days (Survival: 26 predict weather DC 15 + 1 day per 5 over)
On the news from Horvis, the white liontaur looks to Tratain on what should be done.
Draax Tuesday July 10th, 2007 10:59:08 PM
Draax listen to the eagle speak and he hopes that he translated the words correctly. He begins to discuss the situation with the others. "He must be very skilled and confident to travel this far out by him or herself. Hopefully he has nothing to do with us, but on the safe side we should not be so close to each other that a single hostile spell could get all of us. Whatever we are going to do, let's do it before the stranger comes into our line of sight."
Izen Wednesday July 11th, 2007 12:17:25 AM
"If he causes trouble, just sic the wemic on him," Izen commented, scratching at his seemingly perpetual stubble. But the halfling seemed prepared to follow whatever plan the group suggested.
Tratain Wednesday July 11th, 2007 12:46:00 AM
Tratain says "Lets keep going towords the Valley. We need to camp outside it if we get there too late. Be cautious of who approaches but not overly so, not many travel this way. Those that do usually have some measure of Power, but we don't know his intentions so lets be Civil unless this person proves to be a danger."
ADM Joe Wednesday July 11th, 2007 12:54:48 AM
Posting Report for week ending Friday July 6th
M T W R F DM X - - X X Tratain O - - X X Jova X - - X X Monthor X - - X X Izen X - - O X Arien O - - X X Horvis X - - X O Draax X - - X X Juliander X - - O X Lumi X - - X X
Welcome to the Game Lumi :)
Jova Wednesday July 11th, 2007 2:32:14 AM
Jova moves steadily behind the group. Lumi had skills in fighting, no doubt about that. Time would tell how the lone hunter worked in concert with others.
Several times an hour, Jova rides back a mile or so to make sure noone is following. The superior speed of his summoned steed allows for much ground able to cover, in short times. When Horvis reports, Jova hangs back even more, hoping to fail any rear flank attack.
Monthor Wednesday July 11th, 2007 7:40:57 AM
[Tratain] ...but we don't know his intentions so lets be Civil unless this person proves to be a danger."
[Monthor]
" Is that last remark directed at moi???? "
:: Monthor follows along. ::
A Short & Stubby Stranger Wednesday July 11th, 2007 3:59:35 PM
Moving along somewhat cautiously, the group continues for another 20 minutes or so, when a small form comes into view ahead. Still a few hundred yards away, it looks to be a dwarf, or possibly a gnome, by the height. It is carrying a heavy backpack, and ambling through the grass.
In a few minutes, the person (which you can now see is a male) looks up and sees you for the first time, giving a small start. Quickly composing himself, he strides forward. When he reaches you, he motions with his free arm and says, "Make way, Make way! No fair hogging the whole road. Make way!"
Draax Wednesday July 11th, 2007 4:51:13 PM
Although the man seems surprised to see the Knights, Draax has been around too many good actors to let his guard down. The kid in him almost makes him get into the arrogant man's way, but starting a fight over something as petty as not taking a step to the side is not something he would be proud of.
Draax takes a small step to the side, just enough to let the stranger pass. He does keep he eyes on the stranger, looking for any hostile movement towards the group.
Lumi-Juova Wednesday July 11th, 2007 5:38:52 PM
"Civil?" The liontaur looks at his companions and then at himself. "Must be talking of you and me." confirms Lumi to Monthor with a small smile. Then the black eyes slide michieveously over Izen. "Or maybe the Cleric of Tomi is speaking of a sharp-witted halfling?"
Still, there may be trouble ahead, so Lumi pauses at the side of the road to relieve himself before continuing on. On the arrival of the dwarf, Lumi ranges out 30 feet into the grass to the left to get some running room, and he unsheathes his handaxe, keeping the weapon hidden between his body and the stranger.
Studying the signs of the encounter, Lumi watches his travelling companions reactions, especially any sign from Tratain.
Arien Wednesday July 11th, 2007 8:35:24 PM
The elven mage steps a bit off to the side but not off the road. Ever wary Arien keeps an eye out on the surroundings in case this was a distraction.
Juliander Wednesday July 11th, 2007 8:37:39 PM
With an easy smile Juliander holds up a hand to catch the fellow's attention and calls out, "How are the roads up ahead anything that we should be on the watch for?"
Monthor Wednesday July 11th, 2007 8:38:37 PM
The dwarf moves off to one side to let the traveler by.
" Good day good sir, sur is a hot day. Could we interest ye in sharing our mid morning meal?
Horvis Wednesday July 11th, 2007 8:46:50 PM
The eagle is flying overhead, observing the drama below. Horvis doesn't really see why the dwarf (or gnome) needs the entire road to himself, but it doesn't matter to him either. The sky is free to all ... although that thought does make Horvis look over his shoulder to see if something bigger and meaner is after him.
Jova Wednesday July 11th, 2007 9:49:02 PM
Mounted and able to see quite a ways, Jova stays a hundred feet or so back from the others. He does take up th whole road.
Izen Wednesday July 11th, 2007 10:02:29 PM
Izen acknowledged the liontaur's comment with a nod and a smile, but said nothing. Like the others, he made room for the passing stranger.
(Spot, skill mastery, 27)
Tratain Wednesday July 11th, 2007 11:05:45 PM
Tratain takes a couple steps out of the strangers way. When Monthor asks him to share a Meal Tratain says "I didn't think we would see anyone else out this way, what brings you here good Sir?"
The Stranger Thursday July 12th, 2007 12:44:18 PM
As the little man gets close enough, you see that he is not a dwarf at all. In fact, aside from the height, or lack thereof, he looks to be human, albeit the shortest human most of you have ever seen.
Seeing the "bigger folk" moving for him, he puffs out his chest proudly and begins walking again, only to stop with a sigh as questions about.
"Road?" he says to Juliander. "No roads 'round these parts, sonny. So I guess you'd say the road ahead is . . . the same as here? heh, heh... On the watch? Heck, I'd be on the watch to avoid yonder valley if I were you. People as haven't much experience with it shouldn't be wandering 'round near the Valley of Humiliations."
At Monthor's suggestion, the little man smiles, and you notice he is already drawing various items from his pack. It looks like a wheel of cheese and some bread wrapped in green leaves.
"Some lunch sounds just fine," he says as he sits down right where he is.
"Troughton Burk ith the name," the man says with a mouthful of cheese. "And what bringth me here - ack!" he splutters, spitting out the cheese.
"Rotten, vile stuff. What brings me here," he points to Tratain, "is research, of course. I am the famous researcher. Yes, that's right, I'm that Troughton Burk. Surely you've heard of me."
He looks at you expectantly.
Lumi-Juova d20+14=20 d20+14=27 Thursday July 12th, 2007 5:22:32 PM
While the others make the stranger comfortable, Lumi makes a circuit of thier impromptu luncheon (Survival:20). He looks for tracks and spoor of anything that might be a threat to the others.
He gets back just in time to see the short human spit out a bit of cheese and comment on how famous he is. "Until a few months ago, I barely knew of Plateau City let alone some scholar who makes little squiggles on parchment." The black-and-white liontaur yawns hugely to show his lack of interest, then moves off a little ways to keep an eye on the grass and sky (Spot:27).
Horvis d20+11=27 Thursday July 12th, 2007 9:04:36 PM
The giant eagle catches an updraft, possibly from the hot air being spouted by the small human, and spirals upwards. While his companions speak to the fellow traveller, Horvis keeps an eye out for other things on the plain. Spot = 27
Jova Friday July 13th, 2007 1:50:48 AM
The hawk lands on his shoulder and begins squaking at once. A very heated discussion ensues. Then abruptly the hawk takes flight again. Patiently Jova sits his mount, watcing the proceedings.
Arien Friday July 13th, 2007 5:27:33 AM
Arien gives the man an amused glance before opening his pack and removing some fruit and water. Arien eats a light meal while watching the others speak with the human.
Juliander d20+22=32 d20+15=27 Friday July 13th, 2007 5:32:38 AM
Raising his eyebrows in a (hopefully) suitable expression of surprise Juliander exclaims, "Well apart from my Wemic friend here I'm sure we've all heard of you, or at least we should have. I for one am quite glad meet someone of your importance!" While he is speaking the bard is furiously thinking to see if he knew any stories of Troughton Burk.
Then appealing to the short man's vanity Juliander asks, "If you don't mind me asking what are you researching these days?"
(Bluff 32, Bardic Knowledge 27)
Monthor Friday July 13th, 2007 7:53:53 AM
"Not the FAMOUS Troughton Burk!?! " Monthor says with his most honest air of interest. " We sur be lucky to have run into yous then. "
Unpacking some rations, Monthor offers Throughton some crackers to have with the cheese.
" To bad we dont' have some wine to go with the cheese... "
Izen Friday July 13th, 2007 10:47:55 AM
Izen sniffed and smiled. The others had this blowhard well in hand. He watched the surroundings idly.
(Spot, skill mastery, 27)
Lunch Friday July 13th, 2007 3:07:23 PM
Lumi surveys the area, and finds nothing except tracks of the wildlife that would be expected in the region, though not even much of that.
Watching the sky, he sees nothing except a few errant clouds. Aside from Horvis, not even a bird marrs the view.
Horvis, with an even better vantage from up in the air, can confirm the same: not a living creature as far as he can see.
Juliander wracks his brain, but cannot recall a single mention of a man by this name.
"Wine?" Troughton says. "I've got just the thing!" He rummages through his immense pack, leaning into it so far his feet leave the ground, and comes up with a bottle of dark red wine. "Finely aged, I do say."
He passes the bottle around for anyone who wants a sip. He pushes his sleeves up to the elbow, revealing numerous tattoos, glowing lightly. "Now, what kind of research do I do? Well..." he says, warming to his subject, "I am an expert in all things extraplanar. Indiginous flora and fauna of the inner and outer planes, travel between the worlds, you know the sort of thing.
"Right now, I'm just on my way back to Edenmoor for a rest. I've been in yonder valley studying a variety of subjects for over a week now."
Eyeing each of you up and down, he asks, "Now, what exactly are all of you doing out here?" His eyes go wide, and he puts an arm over his pack. "You're not robbers, trying to get me drunk and take my precious things, are ye?"
Draax Friday July 13th, 2007 4:20:24 PM
Draax declines drinking the wine and drinks out of his water skin. He gives a little chuckle at the notion of the group being robbers.
"No we are not robbers. You can say that we are interested in some of the same things that you are. Not that we are researchers like yourself, but we are adventures and interested in seeing and learning about new things. At the moment our interest is in extraplanar things like portals, traveling between worlds, and other planes. It must be fate that we barely get started and we run into the foremost expert on the subject or maybe it is divine intervention."
Draax sits down next to the man and begins chewing on some of his own rations.
"I know you are a busy man and probably not used to talking to such a small audience, but a little of your knowledge could prevent us novices from running from one end of the valley to the other without actually knowing what to look for. I do not know what the others are interested in, but I would really like to know about the portals located in the valley. There are portals in the valley or are they just myths?"
Draax continues to sit and eat as he waits to hear if the man has anything valuable to say.
Lumi-Juova d20+14=21 Friday July 13th, 2007 6:47:33 PM
Despite himself, the large liontaur edges closer to the group in order to hear what is being said (Listen: 14). Leaning closer and trying to be nonchalant about the whole matter, Lumi is very interested in the web of words that Juliander and Draax are spinning.
Yes, very interested indeed. Lumi puts away his axe and moves to sit his haunches closer to the group. His ears cock back to catch the faintest sounds.
Horvis Friday July 13th, 2007 10:17:10 PM
The giant eagle continues to spiral overhead. Horvis knows that he isn't good at diplomacy ... witness what happened when he tried to talk to the combatants in the giant fight ... so he lets his companions speak.
Arien Sunday July 15th, 2007 2:35:26 AM
Arien finishes his light repast and puts the gear away. Turning back to the group the elven mage waits for Troughton to continue.
Juliander Sunday July 15th, 2007 2:38:31 AM
With a smile Juliander waves away the wine and says, "A bit early for me actually. As Draax here has said though, we are quite interested in any portals in yon valley. If you could describe what they look like or what we might need to look for to locate one it would be a great help."
Tratain Monday July 16th, 2007 7:37:47 AM
Tratain says "as my friends have said, you have nothing to fear from us. Any information you have to share about the Valley would interest us. If you could tell us about these Portals, where they go, how to use them, and what lives there would help us greatly."
Lunch (continued) Monday July 16th, 2007 10:02:13 AM
Troughton relaxes again at the assurance that he will not be robbed, but eyes Draax, Juliander, and Tratain questioningly at the mention of portals.
"Hmm . . . I see . . . . Only one portal I know of that a bunch of self-proclaimed adventurers would be aiming for. HA! Might as well be out with it, you're lookin' for gold! Trying to be sneaky 'round old Troughton . . . . HA!
"Well, in case you haven't heard, alot of greedy adventurers have gone to that land, but they never make it back. They get stuck, and so will you, mark me well. Greed doesn't pay!" he says, waggling a finger at you.
"Or, well, I guess it does pay, in a purely financial sense . . . it being greed and all . . . but certainly not in a metaphysical or spiritual sense! No sir! But then agai . . . ack! no matter. Where was I?
"Right. I know just where you're trying to go. Now the Valley itself poses no real threat to ones such as you. But that city . . ." He points at Arien. "I'd think at least your ancestors would have passed down enough lore to keep you away from there, no? Hmmph.
"Well, if you're all durn fool enough to be set on this course, I guess I could see my way to helping you along. For an appropriate remuneration, of course. We'll discuss that on the way."
Standing up, he fits his pack over his shoulders and stumps off the way he came from. "Let's be going, then," he calls over his shoulder. "Time is money! . . . actually, no, time is time and money is money . . . then again . . . hmm, another interesting one..." he mumbles to himself, as he pulls out a large notebook and scribbles a few lines down. "Have to spend some time on those later."
Lumi-Juova d20+14=23 d20+14=24 d20+14=24 Monday July 16th, 2007 6:30:41 PM
The white ears fall a little as the small man sees through his companions insinuations. Too bad! But at least the man has agreed to show us the way, he thinks. Still, it would be good to keep an eye on him. "Things aren't always what they seem, Lumi", the big taur says to himself, "at least that's what auntie always said..."
Lumi trails off into thoughts of his own. Not wanting to infect his companions, he ranges a hundred feet or so ahead of the main group, providing additional advanced warning to the circling Horvis. (Survival: 23, Spot: 24 LIsten:24)
Occasionally, he checks on the snowy white owl clinging to his white furred back. The animal seems to be content to sleep the day away.
Draax Monday July 16th, 2007 7:47:09 PM
Draax shrugs his shoulders as he gets off of the ground, the feeling out approach that he was trying to achieve would have probably taken too long anyway. He gets an unease feeling about how eager the little man is to help the group until the man mentions a fee for his services.
Draax waits until they are comfortably into the walk before he asks a question. "I have no idea how many portals are out there and where they lead, just so that we do not walk to the end of the valley and discover that you have a different portal in mind. What is the destination of the portal that you believe we wish to use?"
If the little man answers correctly, it will also notify the lion-man of their destination.
Horvis d20+11=31 Monday July 16th, 2007 9:13:50 PM
The giant eagle tips over to settle on a new course and then settles out. After he saw his companions start moving, Horvis idles along overhead. Now that they are moving at the speed of the short one, who seems to be guiding them, Horvis can easily keep pace. He keeps his keen eyes scanning the route ahead and around his companions. Spot = 31 (natural 20)
Monthor Tuesday July 17th, 2007 7:28:39 AM
" Life is like a bowl of cherries.... Sometimes it's good... sometimes it's the pits... and all of the time Draax's feet smell. "
And he follows the others.
Tratain Tuesday July 17th, 2007 11:39:45 PM
Tratain says "Well, if you know where we're headed you know how Dangerous it will be. While your guidance would be appreciated I would not like to endanger you for our quest. Any advice you can give us I would appreciate, but unless you are capable of defending yourself at least as well as all of us I will object to you stepping through the portal with us if that is your intent. I would be obliged to defend you as you would be our comrade in arms, but if you are not strong enough to defend yourself you will surly die if you go with us."
Into the Valley Wednesday July 18th, 2007 9:55:01 AM
The group walks and talks with Troughton, heading in a generally northerly direction through the tall grasses.
Horvis and Lumi keep a sharp eye out while the group travels. Horvis' eyes seem to pick out every blade of grass, every dying shrub. What he does not see is another living creature as far as his eyesight will stretch.
Similarly, Lumi notices a sharp decline in the tracks and trails of common grassland animals that he had seen since leaving town. Aside from this group, it would seem like these grasses hadn't been disturbed in a long time.
Troughton chuckles at Draax. "Why, my boy, we are going to the end of the valley. That is, if it's Fae Skiemir where you plan to be buried. Ha!" he chuckles, as if he had made a hilarious joke. "Don't think ol' Troughton is so slow-witted he doesn't know where a bunch of over-equipped adventure-seekers are going. I've seen your type before, though I've never seen any come out again. Such a shame for the Wold to lose such quality specimens."
Troughton raises an eyebrow at Monthor. "That's very insightful my friend." Pulling out his book, he scribbles a few words and puts it back, then glances at Draax's feet before inching a few feet to the left.
"Dangerous?" he says to Tratain. "Of course it's dangerous! I have no intention of going in there. My area of expertise is with the gateways, not the adventures. Plus, I want to get back to Edenmoor at some point. Of course, if you actually survive, I expect a full acount! I can just see my new book now: Exploits in the Ancient Land of the Elves, by Troughton Burke. HA!"
He continues to ramble as you walk. "You know, the Army of Aisildur was defeated not far from here about 500 years ago. You should come here during the First Full Moon, you can actually see the spirits relive the battles! A wondrous sight! Of course, I'm sure you've seen my book on the subject, hmm?"
As you continue on, you begin getting a somewhat queasy feeling in the pits of your stomachs. Not a sickness, exactly, but more of an uneasy, almost anxious, panicky weight.
As Lumi plods through the grass, he notices a distinct change in color, almost a paling, as if the grass were becoming a bit weaker. Horvis, above, can see that the effect continues for some distance ahead.
Draax Wednesday July 18th, 2007 4:38:28 PM
Draax half smiles at Monthor's comment, turning to Troughton he says, "The dwarf is only half right, only one of my feet smell. I shoved it up the rear of the dwarf and I was never able to get the smell to go away."
As he begins to feel uneasiness in his stomach, Draax looks around and see the same uneasiness on the face other the others. "Did we just step in some diseased area or was the food at the inn laced with something that does not sit to well in my stomach?"
Lumi-Juova Wednesday July 18th, 2007 6:56:51 PM
Faced with the sickened land, the white liontaur pulls in closer to the others. He also keeps patting his sword over his shoulder in a comforting gesture...
"The sage mentioned an ancient battle with Alisidur in these parts", he comments while still looking around. "Perhaps the land did not like all the blood."
His other thoughts of their destination and the other traveller the bronzed face and black eyes keep to themselves, but Lumi's tail swishes restlessly.
Horvis Wednesday July 18th, 2007 9:33:34 PM
The giant eagle keeps watch overhead. Hopefully he will have a chance to join his companions before they reach the portal.
Arien Thursday July 19th, 2007 1:18:54 AM
"Would if I could," Arien murmurs to himself after the little human's tirade. As they continue on the elven mage becomes more and more withdrawn, the thought of his people's ancient land heavy in his mind.
Juliander Thursday July 19th, 2007 1:21:34 AM
"After we have returned from Fae Skiemir you can have all the details you want of the place. We can sit and talk of the city until you are sick of hearing tales and are ready for your book. Of course," Juliander says with a sly smile, "All with appropriate remuneration of course."
Izen Thursday July 19th, 2007 2:48:35 PM
The halfling continued to walk silently with the group (ooc--as his player continues to get his routine back together--should be back on track now).
Through the Valley Thursday July 19th, 2007 4:48:31 PM
"Ahh, wonderful!" Troughton says to Juliander. "If, of course, you get back," he frowns.
As you travel into the valley, the uneasy, almost-sick feeling persists. Troughton, however, seems unperturbed, though he rubs his belly now and then.
He is content to walk along, rambling on about a variety of things: the battles that took place in the valley, the reason some trees are colored the way they are, how there are, in fact, no less than three different species of grass around your feet, and so on.
As you walk, the wide grassland gives way to a narrower prairie between the hills and mountains. Horvis and Lumi continue to search, and find no signs of life other than the pale grass and every so often, a weak, dying bush or tree.
After a few hours more, you see what looks to be the end of the valley in sight. Ahead, almost too small to see (except for Horvis' enhanced eagle eyes) looks like a large set of stones, though it is too difficult to make out exactly what shape they are in.
--------------------------------------------- ooc: guys, I am away tomorrow. I should be able to do tomorrow's post on Saturday, but I'll be traveling all day for work tomorrow and I know I won't get time to post. Apologies ahead of time.
Lumi-Juova d20+14=15 d20+14=18 Thursday July 19th, 2007 6:16:06 PM
The hefty liontaur does not like the lay of the land about him. This sick feeling is not at all how a normal area should feel, and Lumi's senses are affected by the environment (Listen: nat 1, Spot: 18)
To make himself feel better, Lumi pulls out his bastard sword and keeps it in his hand. Occasionally, he looks at Troughton suspiciously, as if he expects him to start laying into the Harmaa Ritari.
Jova Thursday July 19th, 2007 9:10:19 PM
Jova constantly watches the backtrail foir any followers. None to be seen. As the sick feeling of the land about him sinks in, he feels there will be no followers.
The mention of the groups destination didnt seem to register on the liontaurs face. The Ice Vein people probably had no idea of the city. He himself had heard tales, well one tale, only once. Merchants loved moneyt, but was taboo of the worst kind to speak of Fae Skerrin.
If Tratain dids not breech the subject with Lumi, Jova would tell the liontaur what they were doing before stepping through the portal. If the liontaur chose to not go, Troughton would have a reliable travelling companion.
Horvis d20+11=27 d20+5=22 Thursday July 19th, 2007 10:37:25 PM
The giant eagle soars overhead, gliding on the thermals rising from the prairie below. Once Horvis spots the distant stones, he tips from side to side several times before gliding ahead to land near the stones. He looks around the area, trying to determine what he can of the presumed portal. Spot = 27 Spellcraft = 22
Lumi-Juova Friday July 20th, 2007 7:39:21 PM
The wemic's ear flicks again at the mention of the fabled Fae Skimmier or whatever they call it, he thinks to himself. Whatever may meet them thier, at least it would be somthing he could fight, and not this slow sickening in the grass...
Draax Friday July 20th, 2007 11:43:08 PM
Draax continues to walk with the others and hopes the uneasy feeling will leave them soon or at least not be with them once they get to their destination.
Arien Saturday July 21st, 2007 2:54:34 AM
Arien grimaces as he observes the state of the vegetation in the area and wonders uneasily how much worse it will be after they step through the portal.
Juliander Saturday July 21st, 2007 2:57:28 AM
The human bard chuckles and replies to Troughton, "Its almost a guarantee that we'll return, if I were a betting man I'd stake all my money on us."
Lumi-Juova Saturday July 21st, 2007 9:32:10 AM
The wemic laughs out loud despite himself. That Juliander sure has a way with words. "If we lost that bet," calls Lumi's pleasant baritone, "the last thing I'd be worrying about is money!"
Still chuckling, his spirits rising, Lumi more confidently faces the way ahead.
Horivs - OOC Saturday July 21st, 2007 10:27:49 PM
I need someone to sub for Horvis for the coming week. Any takers?
Tratain Sunday July 22nd, 2007 10:45:40 AM
Tratain says "Up there is probably where we need to go. I know there are guardians in this Valley. I'm surprised we haven't seen one yet. Be careful as we approach the portal. Everyone keep a lookout."
Monthor Sunday July 22nd, 2007 3:39:30 PM
Hey, them rocks are almost as big as the ones in Draax's head.....
and Monthor follows the others.
Jova Monday July 23rd, 2007 11:37:40 AM
Jova rides on in silence. Diseased land, Sons of Dread, Marteus. An awful pattern was emergin in his lfe.
To the Portal Monday July 23rd, 2007 2:24:26 PM
The grass begins to thin as you continue on. Horvis, flying overhead, can now see that it disappears altogether ahead.
Soon enough, the party leaves the last of the grass behind, and finds itself trudging through dry, dusty grey dirt. The valley begins to narrow as you approach the end.
Horvis can see from his vantage that towards the end of the valley, there is a sudden drop on both sides and at the end, where the ground takes a sudden plunge well over 100 feet. He warns the party not to stray too close to the cliffs.
Now that you are closer, you can see that the stone construction is indeed some sort of doorway. Made of three enormous stones, two upright and one laid sideways over their top, you find yourself wondering what sort of beast was used to lift and arrange such obviously heavy rocks.
Troughton, seemingly unperturbed by the queasy feeling shared by the others, stumps along, talking all the while.
". . . and you see how the grass doesn't grow here anymore. Hasn't been a blade of grass in this part of the valley since the army of Aisildur was defeated in the second invasion, nigh on 500 years ago now.
"Guardians?" he says to Tratain. "Well, true enough, some things in the valley are guarded by nasty little surprises. But this here portal . . . not much need for a guardian, is there? Exactly what on the other side needs to be guarded? HA! No, no, anyone who is dumb enough can enter this doorway here, as long as they pay the price."
Looking around at each of you, he continues, "which leads me to the point I made earlier: I can help you get in, for the proper remuneration.
"Now, it takes some time to figure out what the current key is for the portal. Once I get that important tidbit, it's up to you to figure out how to get ahold of the key and get it here before the portal resets with a new key altogether. HA! Quite a few would-be adventurers have given up after a few such failures!"
Walking over to a spot near the portal, Troughton plops down on the ground and stretches his extremely short legs. "Here's how it works: something valuable needs to be put in the gateway before you can pass through. That something changes all the time. Usually stays the same for a couple of days, max, before the gateway decides it wants something different entirely.
"It's fairly impossible to bring the key with you the first time, short of being able to predict the future, so you've got to come up with a way to find out what it is, go and get it, and get back in time to use it.
"Now I'm your ticker for the first part, but the second and third are up to you. And, not to be rude, but since my value goes down significantly after I've imparted the information on the key, I'd prefer to have my own payment settled beforehand."
Troughton leans back, using his pack as a cushion, and pulls out some dried meat to munch on while watching the portal.
The portal itself appears to be nothing more than three large rocks. You can see through to the other side easily enough. You can see runes and scripts along the side and top, in a few different languages.
Monthor recognizes the sides as written in dwarven, and Arien can see the top is Elven, although a rather ancient dialect. The engravings on the stone are not words, exactly, but appear to be some sort of magical runes.
Spellcraft DC 30 Highlight to display spoiler: { the runes are not of any type you've seen since you began your adventures. They appear to have been made to power spells similar to those in existence today, although they seem to do so in an odd way. It's almost as if the makers didn't use the same magical language used in this day and age. In any event, the runes are essentially worthless now (except for scholarly study), and do not seem to be connected to any magical power any longer.}
Draax Tuesday July 24th, 2007 12:18:50 AM
Draax follows Troughton's example and takes a sit on the ground. He will let those that have knowledge in magic handle the rest of the discussion. He takes out his sword and places it on his chest as he leans back and closes his eyes.
Juliander Tuesday July 24th, 2007 9:25:35 AM
"Well good sir, it is nearly impossible for us to determine what appropriate payment might be without further information on what the wise Troughton Burk might find of value. Please do enlighten us." The bard smiles as he opens up negotiations with the gnome.
Monthor Tuesday July 24th, 2007 10:34:27 AM
Monthor reads out loud the sides written in Dwarven.
( Ooc> I'll be away from Thursday night to next Thursday night, possibly Friday night. Draax will cover. C.S. will be sent tonight.)
Lumi-Juova d20+14=28 d20+14=21 d20+14=28 Tuesday July 24th, 2007 1:23:26 PM
Lumi stalks the stone door, carefully looking around to see if there are any clues in recent visitors. A glance over the cliffs is worth seeing if there are any of these guardians that the human spoke about. (Spot:28, Listen:21, Survival:Tracking:28)
Coming back to where the Harmaa Ritari are gathering amongst the sickly grass, Lumi reports on the little he sees. Cocking an eye to the small human, the black striped wemic gives voice to his speculations.
"I think this talk of Guardians for the way points to this Troughton. Only a special sacrifice will open the door. Only Troughton knows what the sacrifice is. Unless we have magical means, there is no way to validate the story or coerce the information." Lumi smiles his closed-mouth smile and is careful to not show any teeth or claws. "And it doesn't appear that he is worried about being surrounded by nine very dangerous people. Which means you have the tiger by the tail, Master Troughton. Name your price, and we will have to pay it."
Negotiations Tuesday July 24th, 2007 1:51:36 PM
"Well!" Troughton exclaims at the liontaur. "I wasn't worried before! I thought you were kind folk . . . but now I'm getting quite a bit more nervous, thank you!"
He moves around to the other side of his pack, attempting to look nonchalant, but staring at Lumi in obvious fear. Sitting with his pack between himself and Lumi - he apparently thinks it might provide some bit of protection - he continues in a far more nervous voice.
"You all seemed to think I'm something or someone I'm not, when I just came to help you! I didn't have to walk back all this way after just walking out! Fine . . . well then . . . what I need right now - what I am always in need of - is a grant. It's much more costly than you'd think being a researcher. I need capital to keep me supplied so I can do my work without taking on questionable projects.
"Right now, for instance, I'm working on a book about the migratory patterns of ogres indigenous to Izen and the Red Hills region. You can imagine how costly that can get.
"So let me think . . . I could conceivably finish the work in about a year . . . multipled by 7 . . . add extra for summer . . ." he continues mumbling for a few moments, deep in thought and counting through his fingers a few times. "I'd say five hundred gold should do it!" he says with a smile to Juliander.
"And for that, I'll learn what your key is, help you use it, and be here when you get back. Of course, that's five hundred gold plus the rights to your story inside, no less."
Meanwhile, Monthor studies the dwarven runes on the portal, but finds that without any magical training, he can do no more than tell that they are, in fact, dwarven.
Draax Tuesday July 24th, 2007 3:35:03 PM
Draax opens an eye and looks over at Troughton and Juliander. He would normally let Juliander handle the negotiations, but if 500 is all the little man wants, Draax has a hard time keeping his mouth shut. He speaks up, not realizing that he just cut Juliander off.
"If you do everything you say you will do, then 5 hundred is a fair price, it is a little higher than I was thinking, but still a very fair price. I think we can meet that price if you can do what you say you can do. We will give you half up front and the other half before we pass through the door. If we return, I will even double it.
When/if we make it back, my story is yours, I will not speak for the others, they can tell you their stories or not, it is up to them. I do have one stipulation for you, my soon to be good friend Troughton. I require that while we are gone, until we return and until we tell you our story, you cannot tell anyone where we have gone or even that you have met us. I do not want to return to find a town of people standing in front of me with their hands out."
Draax opens the other eye and looks directly at Troughton, "OK, you help us get through the portal and keep your mouth shut about our business until we return and tell you our story. We agree to pay you 1500 gold; 250 before we search for the key, 250 after we find the key and get ready to go through the portal, and 1000 when we return. Are we in agreement?"
Tratain Tuesday July 24th, 2007 4:54:32 PM
Tratain thinks hard for a moment and then says "We will give you the ammount of gold that Draax has offered. But I have a few stipulations. We want to see this story before you publish it. Also, while we will tell you everything that has happened to us inside, I would like the names and places changed. I would rather have the book represented as a fictional tale, rather than a true accounting of our trip through here. This place is very dangerous, I do not want young adventurers who may not be prepared to read this and think it would be a grand idea to travel here, they will probably get killed. While the events in the book may be true, I would like it represented as fiction. It may help the book sell better also, plus my friends and I do quite a bit of other adventuring. If you are a talented writer perhapse we could tell you some of our other tales for you to write about to fund your research."
Jova Tuesday July 24th, 2007 5:34:06 PM
Jova rides up to the group. Listening to the negotiations of the dwarf sounds ok to him. This new liontaur though, is a bit scary.
Dismounting, he walks a little ways away from the others. He peers down the cliff face as though he has found something. "Luni, can you join me for a moment."
If the liontaur comes over, Jova explains what they are going to do. What Fae skerrin is, and what they plan on getting out of the adventure. Throwing caution to the wind, he also explains the offer of the admission to the Consortium. All of this, of course, out of earshot of the dwarf.
Lumi-Juova Tuesday July 24th, 2007 8:45:48 PM
The large liontaur's ears prick up and he backs off a pace when it seems that Troughton is intimidated by his words and manner. That is in fact rather startling to Lumi, and he's not quite sure of what to make of it!
It is with a sigh of relief that the tiger-striped wemic moves away from Troughton and with Jova. As they get alone together, Lumi seems to stiffen up again, as if he is on his guard about something. He listens to Jova, his black eyes giving away nothing.
"I have also been invited to join the Consortium", he tells the tall man, "and which is why Omrad sent me to meet you and the other Ritari. As to the home of the elves and what is there, I suppose that this Verash the Sage will be able to tell us more, yes?"
He glances back at the man who seemed so frightened of Lumi, and lowers his voice still more to Jova. "I didn't mean to scare the man. But wandering alone out here, it seems safer to assume not everything is as it seems."
Monthor Tuesday July 24th, 2007 8:58:12 PM
Monthor gives Draax the evil eye. Really, offering so much more coin then asked will only awaken suspecion in the little researcher. But what can you do? What's offered is offered.
" Just make sur ye spell me name right. M-O-N-T-H-O-R. "
Juliander Wednesday July 25th, 2007 9:47:47 AM
Seeing that the negotiations with Troughton have taken on a life of their own, Juliander crosses his arms casually and relaxes to watch as the other Gray Knights open up bidding on the gnome's "grant." Curious that they would pay the gnome to fictionalize something that the bard will likely do in song for free, sans the fictionalization. However, since Juliander isn't one to spend a person's money for them, he remains quiet, though his eyes narrow in amusement.
Negotiations Complete! Wednesday July 25th, 2007 1:20:41 PM
Troughton visibly straightens at the mention of additional money. "Too kind! That's what you are! Why, that much gold could fund my research for years! I accept."
In reply to Draax, he says, "Worry not about my telling tales out of turn. In fact, I propose to wait here for you anyway. Reentry can be . . . tricky . . . sometimes. There might be something I can do to help, who knows? Then again, as someone pointed out, it can be dangerous here. I don't suppose anyone would be willing to stay behind and provide a guard for me?"
Looking to Tratain, Troughton's grin sags. "Fiction? Hmm . . . I've never done fiction . . . . Well, the knowledge is what I want the most. If it must be fictional, so be it. You have my word on that." He bows deeply to Tratain, almost falling forward on his short, stumpy legs.
Jova and Lumi walk off to talk in quiet whispers together, out of earshot of the group.
Troughton nods to Monthor, then scribbles something in his notebook. "Fiction though, master Monthor. I am sworn to fiction, it seems."
With that, Troughton goes back to rummaging through his pack. After a few moments, he emerges with a pair of dark wooden sticks with small runes carved on them, a pewter bowl, and some incense.
"Now, here is how this works. It's going to take me the better part of a day, if not until tomorrow, figuring out what you'll need to pass through the gate. What you all need to do is figure out how you plan to obtain whatever material or particular thing the gate wants. The key changes every few days, but it's always something very expensive. By the time I determine what the key is, we may have days, or we may have hours, before it changes. Then we have to start all over again.
"I need to get to work. Please, give me sufficient peace and quiet that I can concentrate. Planar travel isn't simple, you know!"
With that, Troughton walks over to the gate and sits down cross-legged in front of it, about a foot from the entranceway. He keeps the items from his pack next to him on the ground. It almost looks like he is meditating.
Izen Wednesday July 25th, 2007 1:23:11 PM
Izen, standing off to the side quietly, listens to Troughton's negotiations while absent-mindedly rolling a coin between his fingers.
When Troughton requests that someone stay behind as a bodyguard, he sighs and flips the coin. It lands in his hand, and he looks down at it. Shoulders sagging ever so slightly, Izen steps forward and says, "I'll stay behind with him. He may need some protection out here while he waits for the group to return.
CDM Jerry Wednesday July 25th, 2007 2:07:41 PM
Hey friends. I need the report for last week posted. Email it to me too please so I can cross it off my list. ;)
ooc SteveK Wednesday July 25th, 2007 3:14:48 PM
I'm going on vacation 30 July to 10 August. Is there someone who would like to keep Lumi sniffing around and looking for something to hunt? :)
stephen.knotts@us.army.mil
Tratain Thursday July 26th, 2007 12:22:17 AM
Tratain steps back and waits for Troughton to work his spells and hopes that the group will be able to aquire whatever is necessary to open the portal.
OOC Posting report will be done tomorrow on my day off :) So strapped for time right now.
Arien d20+27=38 Thursday July 26th, 2007 12:28:16 AM
The elven mage studies the portal and the runes around it. After the negotiations are complete with Troughton, Arien relays what he discovered relating to the runes.
Jova Thursday July 26th, 2007 6:32:03 AM
Jova continues chatting with Lumi.
"Although your demonstration sir, was, shall we say impressive, it did not allow for 'how' you prefer to fight. If you could tell me it would bode well. Tratain, Arien and Draax are all solid fighters. They use their heads as much as their weapons. Hard to read Juliander. Monthor is, well Monthor. A dwarf on a quest to kill everything, you will see hom jump to battle. Izen is sneaky, does alot out of sight. Horvis advances quickly as well, he has the ability to assume many forms. I am still figuring where i should be.
"So, if all else we could team up and help one another. If our styles can compliment, and not confuse.
"The stranger seems to be starting whatever needs to be done. You are rtight not to trust anyone. This group has a circle of assassins after it now. Spns of Dread as well. A careful eye, will keep you, and hopefully us alive."
Monthor Thursday July 26th, 2007 8:51:24 AM
" Can we go now?... "
ooc> And with that I'm off for a week. Let's try not to get Monthor killed AGAIN please :-)
Draax Thursday July 26th, 2007 11:19:59 AM
Draax sits on the ground again and waits with the others while Troughton does his thing.
Waiting for the Portal Thursday July 26th, 2007 4:49:45 PM
As the day continues, the party waits around the portal. Some conversations pop up, and some are content to sit back and relax.
Troughton continues to sit in front of the portal, mumbling incoherently every so often.
After a few hours, he reaches out and grabs his incense. Setting it up in front of him, he lights it, then picks up the two engraved rods and holds them out in front of himself.
He stays in this position for nearly an hour before relaxing momentarily, then lights more incense and resumes his trance-like state.
Evening begins to set it, with no appearance of a halt by the short scholar. As the sky darkens, it looks like the group will be spending at least part of the night while Troughton continues his odd work.
Lumi-Juova Thursday July 26th, 2007 5:46:45 PM
The large liontaur carefully considers Jova's words before replying in his pleasant baritone. "I am surprised, Jova, for I had thought I demonstrated most of my talents outside the village." His eyes cloud over for a moment when remembering the fear in the villagers' eyes. "I am a hunter and tracker. I prefer to sneak up on my prey and then quickly strike, hard and fast. Those few times I have worked with a group, I have tended to be the center of the enemies' attention. This has allowed my companions to use missle weapons, flanking attacks, or (and he pauses slightly) or spells to weaken the foe."
"I am surprised that you say Arien is a warrior." the white Lumi continues, "I had thought from his attire that he works in magic. As do you?" The last is said questioningly and again with a tenseness out of character with the confident wemic.
Juliander Thursday July 26th, 2007 7:23:33 PM
Juliander bows low to the liontaur, "I am what I am... that is to say that I do not limit myself to a single word description whenever possible." The human smiles, "It is safe to say that I possess a collection of useful skills and abilities that are social, martial, and magical in nature."
Draax Thursday July 26th, 2007 7:35:01 PM
Draax raises an eyebrow when he see that it is beginning to get dark. He looks over at the little man and wonders if the man did not con them out of 250 gold pieces. He sighs as he realizes that all he can do is wait until the man finishes whatever he is doing. Draax decides to gets up and begins setting up camp.
Monthor Thursday July 26th, 2007 7:37:34 PM
Seeing that they will be staying the night in this spot, Monthor gets ready for a long night. "OK ladies, who will be joining me on first watch?"
Lumi-Juova d20+14=22 Thursday July 26th, 2007 11:10:02 PM
Seeing the gathering dark, Lumi will pitch in to help, as well as to see how this group does it. Bringing a medium-sized felt tent out of his backpack, the liontaur sets up the willowy frame until it looks like a sage colored hummock. questing about, Lumi will help gether firewood as well as lighting a small and safe cooking fire. (Survival:22)
"Don't ask me to cook", he tells the others, "I have been known to burn water!"
Jova Friday July 27th, 2007 1:38:23 AM
Looking to lumi, a bit of surprise, then mirth. "Lumi, as you will soon learn, 'warrior' is more of an attitude, than a title. Arien weaves magic, it is true, but has the warrior spirit. This is not a hunting party. Well for you to recognize it as so. "
Jova wanders about, talking to hmself, or communicating with Z one never knew.
Arien Friday July 27th, 2007 3:19:40 AM
Arien smiles as it grows dark and watches his companions get ready for the night. "I have found that while the ground does make for an interesting resting place, lately I have been experiencing a growing desire for something more that hummocks, rocks and roots. So if you don't mind I believe that I shall retire someplace a bit more...restful."
The elven mage withdraws a trio of spell foci and after contemplating them a moment casts a spell. After Arien finishes the spell a faint shimmering appears in front of the mage that the party, and Troughton should he take a moment to observe, can see. Arien pockets the spell foci and with a smile says, "You are free to join me if you like, unless of course you have a special attachment to sleeping on the ground."
That said the elven mage steps through the shimmering portal and vanishes into the spell. Should any of the others follow Arien into the portal they will find a large room beyond with silken curtains cordoning off rooms for the individual party members, each designed with the owner's race in mind.
Large pillows make beads for the two Tauric companions. For the others, large four-poster beads that somehow are just the perfect hardness with large pillows and carpets layering the floor. The center of the room is dominated by a large table, overflowing with food and drink of every type imaginable. A second table, smaller has a dozen chairs or cushions for the party members to rest on. Servants stand at the ready to fetch whatever their guests might wish to partake of.
Key to the Portal Friday July 27th, 2007 3:33:02 PM
Anyone not sleeping in the magical room Highlight to display spoiler: { Troughton works through most of the night. Or, more aptly, he sits meditatively, ocassionally waving a wand or lighting incense, through most of the night.
In the early hours of the morning, before the sun has even hit the horizon, he suddenly stands up and announces, "I got your answer! Though you're not going to like it, I think."}
Looking around, Troughton sees that not all of the group is present. "Hhmmph! I'm not going through this twice. Let's wait until everyone is here."
Once morning comes and anyone inside the portal has emerged, Troughton clears his throat and addresses the group. "As I said, I found the key, but you're not going to like this.
"The gate has specified that it wants some enchanted gold bars. 10,000 gold pieces worth, to be precise. The enchantment doesn't much matter, as long as the bars emanate some sort of magic for the gate to gobble up. What you do is, you put the bars - or whatever the key happens to be - right there inside the portal," he points to the stone structure. "The gate will take care of the rest from there."
Looking around, Troughton's face appears a bit apologetic. "I don't know who carries 10,000 coin worth of gold bars on them. Now everyone's going to blame old Troughton if you can't get through the gate, right?
"How . . . how will you get the key in time? As I said, there could be a day, there could be three days, but it will change soon enough, and the gate will want something altogether different."
Lumi-Juova Friday July 27th, 2007 5:04:03 PM
Setting up his tent, Lumi is startled at the magical mansion Arien has set up. Cautious about the door, he lets several of the others to go through before he does himself. Impressed with the being, the tiger-striped white liontaur is willing to grab some food, but then apologizes to Arien before going back outside.
"Looks great, but I'll stand guard over the little man." A little hurriedly, the liontaur moves back outside and takes a deep, appreciative breath.
Through the night, Lumi will stand guard or if someone else comes out, will rest half in, half out of his felt tent. He sends the owl that has been with him to go out and hunt some fresh food for itself.
In the morning, the large liontaur is completely without ideas to find 10,000gp in enchanted gold bars. Upending a small leather purse into one hand, he laughs at the sky. "I can provide 37 gold pieces to the pile. Now we only need nine thousand and a bit more!"
Monthor Monday July 30th, 2007 2:29:16 AM
Monthor takes the first watch and then he takes Arien up on his invitation.
Draax Monday July 30th, 2007 2:42:25 AM
Draax takes the second watch and tries to think of ways to get the enchanted gold bars.
He waits until they are away from Troughton before he begins discussing the gold bars. "I guess we could melt the gold down ourselves and make it into gold bars. Arien could cast an enchantment on them and we are good to go. The wizard's lab back at the estate should have something that can heat the gold until it melts or at least I hope it does. A teleport spell could take one or more of us there and then back. If we could do that it should not take more than a day."
Draax waits to hear what the others think of his idea and if anyone has a better idea.
Jova Monday July 30th, 2007 2:52:06 PM
Jova had taken the offer and stayed in the mirage. This was good. They could always use such a place to rest, if only for the protection that it gave.
In the morning, he calls Z to his side. With his rod of extending he casts his usual spells. Mage armor, shield, and the steed. All to last until the next day.
"I agree with Draax. The only other option would be to contact Lord Arrak, maybe he has the gold bsrs."
Lumi-Juova Monday July 30th, 2007 2:53:51 PM
The night had passed without event. The others looked as if they were going to leave, so Lumi packs up his tent, and moves off with the,. He had no idea where they could come up with more gold, or the enchantment.
Draax Monday July 30th, 2007 3:40:46 PM
Draax nods his head at Jova's suggestion. "Good call Jova, I did not think about him. He probably have a few lying around."
Plans for the Gold Monday July 30th, 2007 4:40:52 PM
The group moves off a bit and discusses the turn of events. Troughton sits patiently by the portal, reading a book and mumbling to himself while he makes notes on the pages.
Various ideas for coming up with the gold bars are tossed around, but no consensus reached yet.
Horvis Monday July 30th, 2007 9:51:05 PM
The eagle wakes from his slumber where he had been perched. When Horvis is informed of the need for a large amount of gold, he offers some suggestions like the others.
"I put all my cash with yours, so I have nothing to add. If we had the cash, surely one of you could teleport back to Plateau City and purchase the gold from a merchant or jeweler? Does one of have a spell to temporarily put a glamer on items? Failing that, isn't there a shop in Plateau City where you can buy enchantments along with items?"
Tratain d20+7=14 Monday July 30th, 2007 10:44:31 PM
Tratain glances at Troughton when he tells them what they will need for the gate and attempts to determine if he is being truthful or not.(Sense Motive 14)
If tratain thinks that he is being Truthful Tratain says "I can use our statuette to contact Lord Arrack and see if he can give us any idea's on where to find that much enchanted gold Bars. If he doesn't know We can teleport back to Plataue City and go to the catacombs and see if they can provide us with what we need."
Tratain Monday July 30th, 2007 10:47:11 PM
Tratain will also pull out the Scroll Give to the group by Queen Maab with the Never Fading spells of Find Portal and Open Portal and attempt to use it and see if it has an effect.
Adm Joe Monday July 30th, 2007 10:51:45 PM
Posting Report for week ending Friday July 6th
M T W R F DM X X X X X Tratain O X X O O Jova O X X X X Monthor X X X X X Izen O O X O O Arien O O X X O Horvis O O O O O Draax X X X X X Juliander X X O X O Lumi X X O X X
Juliander Tuesday July 31st, 2007 1:10:02 AM
Juliander shrugged, "I also included the majority of my monetary wealth in that last Catacombs transaction, though if we're all completely strapped I suppose that we could sell a few items in order to get the money."
Plans for the Gold (continued) Tuesday July 31st, 2007 12:20:21 PM
Tratain eyes Troughton warily, but he senses that the little man is indeed being truthful, though Troughton seems quite nervous at having delivered the bad news.
Troughton breaks into the discussion and says, "The enchantment part isn't really your issue." He points to Arien. "He can do whatever you need. See, the gate doesn't care what the magic is, it just wants the magic. You'll find that's true most everywhere in Fae Skiemir. Heck, give the gold some magical protective quality . . . make it shine with artificial light . . . do anything to it you like. It's easy enough. The hard part is finding the gold.
"I hope you're not mad at me. I told you people go crazy trying to get into this place. By the time someone gets ahold of the key, it's already changed to something else entirely and they have to start all over!"
Discussion centers around shopping in plateau city or contacting Arrak. At the mention of teleporting, Troughton nods vigorously. "That's probably your only bet to make it in time," he says.
---------------------------- OOC: I don't know what Queen Maab's scroll is supposed to do. Can anyone point me to something in the archives? Sorry, it was well before my time in the Wold, I think.
If someone can make me better informed, I'll figure out what, if anything, it can do for you.
Draax/Stan Tuesday July 31st, 2007 5:09:28 PM
OOC: The following refers to the scroll:
The Scroll of Guidance (DM Cayzle) Friday August 19th, 2005 6:57:04 AM This is the Thursday DM Post.
The initial investigation of the scroll is fruitful -- any divine caster can use it. There are two spells on the scroll:
Find Portal -- a second level divination that locates the nearest gate into or out of a valley in Maab's realm.
Open Portal -- a fourth level transmutation that opens a portal in close range.
However, these spells can only be cast from the scroll -- they cannot be prepared in your head.
The party takes a break from the intensity of meeting a Power and enjoys a few jokes. The relief is welcome especially given that the party's trials are not over.
"Oh no little buddy, we are not mad at you. We just need to figure out what we need to do to make it happen. So do not worry about it, just remember that the dwarf is always the hero."
Draax Tuesday July 31st, 2007 5:22:02 PM
Draax eats a small breakfast and puts aways his sleeping gear. He forgot all about the scroll until Tratain mentioned it, but has no idea whether it would help in the current situation. He waits to hear what the group decides to do.
Horvis Tuesday July 31st, 2007 9:28:55 PM
The giant eagle waits with increasing impatience while the others debate.
"I can sell one or two of my items to raise the cash, if you like. I don't always use all of my Tears anyway."
Juliander Tuesday July 31st, 2007 10:26:08 PM
Horvis's suggestion spurs further ideas for Juliander, "I can also assist with raising the money by selling items as well. I have a wand that I almost never use. It shoots magic missiles... five at a time... and has actually never seen use, so it is fully charged."
Jova Wednesday August 1st, 2007 2:07:32 AM
Jova moves over to Lui and introduces his familiar Z to the wemic. He also introduces Z to Lumis owl, and vice versus. The animals with the group need to know one another asmuch as the people.
While people are giving up items to find the gold for the entrance fee, Jova contemplates the issue.
"Out of curiosity, what happens if we just ask the gate again? Maybe it will have changed by now, and we have the desired key. Interesting."
Lumi-Juova Wednesday August 1st, 2007 2:08:56 AM
The hunter yearns for the hunt. All this debate is not suitable for him. He accepts the friendliness of Jova nad his bird.
At the Gate Wednesday August 1st, 2007 12:54:14 PM
Tratain withdraws a scroll and begins to read from it. The air around the portal seems to darken every so slightly, and a chill breeze wafts through. The stones in the gate shudder, then fall silent, the air returning to normal. The gate stands as it did before, a mere window to the grass on its other side.
"Huh . . ." says Troughton after a pause. "Never seen anything even get that close without using an actual key . . . ." He shrugs, and pulls his notebook out to make a few scribbles, eyeing the scroll all the while.
"Dwarf . . . equals . . . hero," he mumbles as he writes another line.
Others in the group offer to sell various unused items to raise the money, then Jova raises a question.
"Well," says Troughton, again warming to his subject. "We can, of course, seek the key as often as you like. Or, that is, until I need to get some new supplies," he adds, shaking his bag for effect. "We will indeed learn the new key once it is chosen, though I fear you won't be in any better a spot.
"You see, just like the elven city itself, the portal craves two things: gold, and magic. You can bet your last button every single key will involve both of those things, and quite alot of the first.
"Why, I'd say you're getting off light, what with only needing some gold bars. I've heard tell of one sad bunch who needed to get an enchanted gold necklace hidden away somewhere in the monster preserve. By the time they found it and got back, the gate wanted a golden magic staff! HA!" he trails off in laughter for a few moments.
"Yes, well . . . whatever you'd like me to do, I can do. Seek the key again? Whatever you like."
About one hour has passed since you woke and got the news from Troughton.
Juliander Wednesday August 1st, 2007 6:28:54 PM
Juliander watches with hope, and is disappointed at the failure of the scroll. "Looks like we'll have to do this the hard way. If we have teleport spells ready, we should get moving on this."
Arien Wednesday August 1st, 2007 7:04:34 PM
"I sure wish we knew this before we spent all that money." Arien says sourly looking at the portal. Arien shrugs and returns through his spell portal for a bite of something to eat.
Draax Wednesday August 1st, 2007 10:25:19 PM
Draax looks at the results of the spell from the scroll and shrugs his shoulders. "I guess we have to do one of the other options."
Unable to teleport or talk to Arrak, Draax takes a sit and hopes the group will have better luck with the other options.
Monthor Wednesday August 1st, 2007 10:34:03 PM
Monthor says a couple of curse words when the scroll is unsuccessful. He takes a few breaths and turns toward the group. "OK, I guess Arrak is the next option. Someone contact him and see if he has any bars he can spare. Tell him we will pay him back when we get back."
Lumi-Juova [SteveK] Wednesday August 1st, 2007 11:08:59 PM
Lumi is in complete agreement with Draax. Wtih the limited options, it looks like the spellcasters will have to make the arrangements to get the gold.
"I think this Arrak person sounds like the best option." It is a throw-away kind of comment, but the white wemic hopes that action is taken to avoid what Troughton said COULD happen.
Tratain Thursday August 2nd, 2007 12:22:25 AM
Tratain says "Hrmm I think the fastest way would be for me to recall back to our house in the City, Visit the catacombs and then Recall back here, it shouldn't take too long"
Decisions Thursday August 2nd, 2007 5:02:15 PM
The group is dejected at the scroll's failure to open the gate. Discussion ensures, and there seem to be two choices prevailing: either talk to Arrak, or return quickly to Plateau City.
Troughton sits quietly and watches the goings-on, occasionally writing a few notes in his book.
---------------------------------- OOC: if possible, choose one of the options by tomorrow so I can start you down whichever road you choose. I want to get you into some action before too long.
Jova Thursday August 2nd, 2007 6:58:22 PM
Since Tratain was the designated leader, and he picks recalling, Jova nods in affirmation.
"Get to it then."
Horvis Thursday August 2nd, 2007 9:18:06 PM
The giant eagle moves closer to his companions since it seems that they will be travelling soon.
"I can sell my items, if need be. Or someone else can do it."
Lumi-Juova [SteveK] d20+14=23 d20+14=32 d20+14=29 Thursday August 2nd, 2007 9:48:21 PM
"Right!" exclaims Lumi, tail lashing at the knowledge a decision has been made. "The cleric of Tomi returns to the City to gather the gold."
"If you need, I will stay here and prrrotect Troughton until Tratain's return."
If, however, the cleric suggests that the group stick together, Lumi is willing to follow orders.
(Spot:23, Listen:32, Survival:29)
Monthor Friday August 3rd, 2007 12:00:52 AM
"Me stay and guard the little guy also."
Juliander Friday August 3rd, 2007 12:03:20 AM
Juliander stands aside, waiting patiently as Tratain makes a decision. He is ready to support the group either way.
Draax Friday August 3rd, 2007 12:03:50 AM
Draax positions his gear to make it comfortable for him to relax on, "No need for everyone to go, so I will stay here too."
Arien Friday August 3rd, 2007 3:45:50 AM
"I can keep us comfortable here while we wait for whomever goes to fetch the gold, so I will stay here as well."
Tratain Friday August 3rd, 2007 7:32:46 AM
Tratain says "Ok, Jova, Juliander and Horvis can come with me to the City to buy the Gold. The rest of you stay here, we'll be back soon."
Tratain gathers up the three people he mentioned and casts Word of Recall bringing the 4 back to the partys house in Plataue City.
OOC: Could we handle the Transaction through e-Mails, it'll be alot faster than waiting on the actual catacombs I think
Back Home Friday August 3rd, 2007 2:32:58 PM
OOC: absolutely, we'll keep moving Monday assuming the bars were obtained and deal with the rest via email.
As part of the group settles in to await the travelers, Tratain, Jova, Juliander and Horvis stand together as Tratain speaks the word to send them back to Plateau City. Suddenly, in a brilliant flash of light, the four disappear from sight.
"Whoa!" yelps Troughton excitedly. Settling back down, he fishes around in his oversized pack, and pulls out another bottle of wine, uncorking it and offering it around before taking a swig himself.
It is still mid-morning, and the day is clear and bright. But, with the queasy feeling that won't seem to go away, and the sickly coloration of what little grass is nearby, it's hard to feel comfortable or happy waiting around the gate.
---------------------------------- Meanwhile, in Plateau City -
The four travelers appear instantly in the common room of the Plateau City house. You hear a woman scream, then breath a sigh of relief.
"All the commotion 'round here lately, I've been rather more jumpy than usual, masters. "Scuse a old woman," says Hmargret as she walks by with a broom in hand.
The house is still a bit disheveled, though it looks far more orderly than it did at your last visit. Hmargret must have been working hard the last few days to clean it up.
Moving quickly, the group heads for the Catacombs and makes the transaction, coming away with a large chest full of gold bars, which is even heavier than one would expect.
By early afternoon, you are ready to begin your journey back to the portal.
Draax Monday August 6th, 2007 1:26:51 AM
Draax continues to sit in a comfortable position, but although he looks calm on the outside, he is very wary and keeps his eyes moving as he scans the area.
Lumi-Juova [SteveK] d20=14 Monday August 6th, 2007 10:54:28 AM
Lumi spends the day circling the camp looking for any sign, taking his time (taking 20) since time is all he has. (Survival: 34)
He spends the rest of the day trying to ward off the sick feeling in the center of his stomach by speaking with the Harmaa Ritari, telling them of the dangers and people of the Ice Vien (isolated villages of hunters) and introducing the ones left to guard the camp to his companion, the owl Tarhapollo. In most of the stories, the Sne Kempje (frozen dead) and the mighty mountain of Burfells figures prominently, recounting feats of heroism for Lumi and past companions.
Since the owl doesn't seem to bring any food for himself back from his hunting trips, Lumi lets some carefully preserved meats soak in a briny water before feeding tidbits to the snowy owl.
sense motive DC 14 vs Lumi's Bluff Highlight to display spoiler: {In all his conversations, the white liontaur avoids any mention of family or other liontaurs in the Ice Vien. }
Horvis Monday August 6th, 2007 2:38:15 PM
The shifter changed back into his original form for the trip to and from Plateau City. If nothing else, someone needs to be there to carry the gold back.
If necessary, Horvis will sell two of his Tear's to cover the cost of the gold and enchantment.
Tratain Monday August 6th, 2007 4:58:36 PM
Tratain walks with those who came with him to the catacombs and purchases the Gold bars. He tells the store clerk that he needs an enchantment put on all of the bars such as continual flame and how much that will cost. Once done with the purchase Tratain will cast Windwalk on the group so that they may fly back to the portal quickly.
DM OOC Monday August 6th, 2007 5:03:30 PM
Hey guys,
Not many posts since Friday's, and nothing on how the travelers are getting back, so I'm going to wait until tomorrow to post the new turn (I'll try to check back tonight to see if anything new is posted).
Juliander Monday August 6th, 2007 8:01:23 PM
Assisting as best he can with the transactions at hand, Juliander is otherwise silent during the trip. He is clearly anxious to get back to the portal, so they may continue their journey. When Tratain casts wind walk to transport them back, the bard nods his agreement with the spell selection.
Back to the Gate Monday August 6th, 2007 8:14:02 PM
[must have posted right after Tratain]
Once the bars are purchased, the group gets together and divides the gold bars between them, with Horvis unfortunately taking the majority of the load.
Casting wind walk once more, Tratain causes the four travelers to float into the air, appearing to be near-insubstantial misty clouds. You experience much the same sensations as before, streaking across the hills and fields until the valley comes into view again.
This time, knowing exactly where you are going, it is a relatively quick trip getting back to the group, taking only a few hours.
Those waiting at the gate experience a quickening in the wind, followed by your four comrades setting down nearby, laden with shining gold bars.
Troughton springs to his feet. Not allowing the four even a chance to rest, he exclaims, "Finally! Get the bars over to the gate. Stack them just inside the columns. Hurry! Are they enchanted yet? Arien, can you cast a spell on them to be sure?" He certainly appears quite giddy with excitement, and a bit nervous.
"Everyone prepare. You'll only have a moment when the gate opens, and the gods only know what will be on the other side. You're staying to protect me, right?" he says to Izen as an afterthought.
Izen nods, a sad look on his face, then rushes to help unladen the travelers and stack the bars inside the gate.
Jova Tuesday August 7th, 2007 2:01:31 AM
Jova had left the phantom ghostly steed with Z to watch over as he had returned to the city with Tratain.
Upon returning, he leaps on the horse and moves to the gate, as instructed by Troughton. Z rests on his shoulder.
Draax Tuesday August 7th, 2007 2:38:01 AM
Draax readies his sword and shield as he gets ready to go through the portal. If the portal opens, he will activates his Endure Element tattoo just before he jumps through. If nothing is waiting for them on the other side of the portal, Draax will move out of the way of the members behind him and stay on guard until everyone is through.
Lumi-Juova d20+14=20 d20+14=30 Tuesday August 7th, 2007 10:00:41 AM
As the wind whips the grasses, Lumi is up and alert, both pleased and a bit apprehensive about the quick return of Tratain and the others. If he had shown any hesitancy of their arrival, the large Lumi is quick to help carry the gold bars to the columns and stack them up where Troughton has indicated.
Lumi takes a moment to move over to the small halfling that is staying in the sickly fields. "Izen", he says in his pleasant baritone, "It is always easier to go forth and seek danger than wait at the hearthfire. And yet without those defenders, the hunters would have nowhere to return. You are a brave Ritari to stay behind." A quick nod, and Lumi-Juova turns to the gate.
Emulating Draax, the tiger-striped wemic ensures his pack is strapped tightly to his broad back, and the rest of his euqipment is battle-ready. Unsheathing his hand-and-a-half sword and the dull gray axe, Lumi flanks Draax to the left.
Giving an eye to Monthor, the wemic explains his reasons. "I will follow Draax and immediately go left to protect his one flank. He will need another warrior to move to the right."
He then flicks an ear towards Tratain to ensure himself that the BattleLeader agrees. (Spot:20, Listen:30)
Monthor Tuesday August 7th, 2007 12:00:49 PM
Monthor moves to Draax's right... ".. That would be me... "
Portal to Fae Skiemir Tuesday August 7th, 2007 6:24:36 PM
The enchanted gold bars are stacked carefully inside the portal [ooc: I missed where Tratain requested they be enchanted when purchased]. Given the amount of gold, the stack is quite high, well over Troughton's head. THe short man whistles as he looks over the finished product, but quickly jumps back as a light humming comes from the pillars.
As you watch, the two side pillars begin vibrating slightly, then moreso after a few more moments. The humming becomes louder and louder, then turns into a loud, high-pitched scream, as if the wind were whipping past your ears at a trememdous speed. The air around you begins to shimmer and sparkle.
Suddenly, a tiny ball of light explodes above the gold, as if the very sun had blown up, but been contained within some sort of cage. The ball is so bright you are forced to avert your eyes until it dims, and once you can look back, the gold is gone, replaced by the slowly turning, shining ball. The screeching sound gets louder, and the ball begins to shake.
In a fraction of a second, the ball increases to the size of the portal itself, and seems to explode outward from the opening, nearly enveloping Draax, Lumi and Monthor, before suddenly imploding on itself and ballooning out of the other side.
After a few reverberations and rebounds, the light settles inside the gate, and fades to the intensity of a bright, shadeless day. The screeching dies to a hum, then disappears completely.
You can see glimpses of branches and leaves through the light, which are definitely not present on the other side of the stone pillars. THe glimpses are fleeting, as if the light were opaque in places, and shifting its composition every so often.
. . . here a leaf blows in an unfelt wind . . . there a branch sags as if a bird had landed on it out of sight . . . here the sound of twigs snapping . . . there the trill of a small squirrel running by unseen . . .
"By all the gods, it actually worked . . . ." breaths Troughton. Pulling himself together, he says, "I mean . . . of course! You see! Troughton Burke never fails when he sets himself to task! HA!"
Becoming more somber, he continues, "I guess this is where we part. I hope a few of you return to give me your tale." With a very inept salute, he says, "Good luck, sirs. You'll need it. . . . Now you've got about five minutes before this thing closes and we start all over. Get to it!"
OOC: do whatever you want to do within five minutes, and give me an order of who enters the gate first, second, etc. The gate is wide enough to go 2 by 2, except for Horvis and Lumi, who are a bit too wide.
Juliander Tuesday August 7th, 2007 8:48:00 PM
Juliander's eyes widen as the gate opens, the magical display causing him to blink and twitch as it expands and contracts. Once the gate has settled however, he remembers that they have business just past, so drawing his crossbow and loading it he announces, "I'll take up the rear guard. Lets get moving on friends."
Lumi-Juova (AC 26, 30 vs AOO, HP 124/124) d20+14=27 d20+14=34 Tuesday August 7th, 2007 8:54:26 PM
The great liontaur will blink away the sparkles from his eyes, and then give a stutter step, catching himself leaping towards the gate. Bringing a bit of self-control on himself, Lumi casts endure elements, then waits until Draax enters the gated area.
Then the white wemic leaps after the knight, stepping immediately to the left and moving on 15 more feet (50 foot movement) to allow the other Ritari to follow. He scans the area around thier entrance intently, looking for any dangers to his companions. (Listen:27, Spot: nat 20!)
The white owl, Tarhapollo, keeps tight hold of the pillion on the liontaur's back, fluffing his feathers against the sudden movement.
Horvis Tuesday August 7th, 2007 10:05:05 PM
The centaur follows the liontaur through the gate. Years of wandering have lead Horvis to be somewhat cautious, so keeping Lumi-Juova in front of him and probably between danger and himself, is the smartest option.
Horvis doesn't shift, not knowing what the portal might do if he were in another shape.
Draax Tuesday August 7th, 2007 10:31:23 PM
As soon as the portal opens, Draax is the first one through. He has his sword and shield raised; ready to defend himself and those behind him. Once on the other side, if there is room and nothing hostile in the area, Draax will move 15 feet forward and stay in a full defensive manner until everyone comes through.
Jova Wednesday August 8th, 2007 3:52:56 AM
Jova waits while the warriors go first. Then Horvis. Juliander wants rear guard, so Jova spurs his horse into motion following the centaur. He goes through the portal, veering to the right as they come out, roughly 30 feet. There he is prepared to cast a spell if need be.
CDM Jerry Wednesday August 8th, 2007 7:10:45 AM
Ok, CDM not so happy here. 2nd week in a row friends with no report. No post from Tratain since Monday. You ok Joe? Email me the report please and let me know if I can help.
Dragon games need to set the example folks. Let's get in the habit please.
Arien Wednesday August 8th, 2007 10:21:06 AM
Arien watches solemnly as the portal opens, there would be no turning back at this point. Arien takes a quick moment to mentally catalog all his gear, then deciding that he was as ready as he was going to get, follows Draax through the portal. On the other side of the portal Arien crouches slightly, spidering sideways and watches for activity as the others come through the portal.
Tratain Wednesday August 8th, 2007 12:57:41 PM
When the portal opens Tratain says "Monthor and Draax go through first, I'll follow then everyone else. I'm not sure if there will be trouble as soon as we pass through the gate but be prepared for it."
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