The Shadow Lands (ACDM Nellie) Saturday December 8th, 2007 2:31:12 AM
As soon as Angus steps through, the hole to the "real Wold" closes, and indeed, it is as if the Shadow Lands close around you...dark, fuzzy, as if the entire landscape is a chalk portrait of what it should be. The air, if you can call it that, presses in around you creating a most unwelcome feeling.
Syr, Bin and Wynn combine muscles and manage to heft Lang's former body with them while Xenia tries to figure out which way they should head. Looking over at the red, glowing river the girl notices several ghostly figures slowly traveling away from the party. She catches the face of one as it slowly traverses...a elf, extremely old guessing by the lines in the wispy face. Taking note of Xenia, it smiles as if all the cares and worries of the Wold are a thing of the past.
Then something else draws her attention...a flash...no...a spark, up ahead. It floats above the stream, slowing traveling forward, ahead of the group. Under the spark Xenia sees several smaller ethereal figures swimming upstream in the Woldsblood of this rivulet. There is an almost overpowering sense of innocence and beauty that brings a smile to the lips of all who view the scene. Suddenly one of the figures reaches out tiny hands and grasps the spark. There is a brief flash of beautiful light illuminating the stark landscape and then it is gone...and is replaced by an obnoxious laugh. A small imp strolls up from seemingly out of nowhere. "Hehehe...must be mating season in the Wold...fourth one of those I've seen this hour. Bet you're not here for the sights, though are ya?" says the imp as he gazes mischievously over at group.
Xenia Saturday December 8th, 2007 8:32:03 AM
"Well, it's not as bad as I thought." Xenia returns, stepping from the shadows beside Wynn. "But, it's not 'xactly like there are shops, inns or even street signs 'round here, you know. Maybe one of you guys with more religiosity might wanna point the way." Her eye turn back in the direction of the old elf. Just drifting off ... into ...
... bliss ...
Yeah, that's what it was. Bliss.
And the spark up over the river. Even the recollection of the sight causes her hand to stray to her belly.
Then the voice. The Little Guy.
The girl rogue says nothing. Instead she slips behind Wynn, watching quietly from the rear as things unfold themselves.
Angus Saturday December 8th, 2007 9:44:08 AM
Angus is amazed at the sights and in a low whisper adds "Nice job Belkior. Where are we again?" Angus is truely amazed at the power the clerics in his company wield.
Angus hangs in the back the of group as it is easy for him to see over all of his fellows now that the tall, wide and hairy form of Lang is not standing on its own. That thought brings saddness to his heart but also hope.
The old elf across the way seems alright, the imp character has Angus on his guard as he watches carefully.
Wynn d20+14=23 Saturday December 8th, 2007 12:00:16 PM
Wynn heaves his shoulder to reposition the bugbear before speaking.
"We have come to petition for the life of our friend Lang. He has been a boon companion to us, and many lives have been changed for the better thanks to his actions. Can you direct us?"
Wynn hopes his words are not construed as a demand, but rather a request [Diplomacy=23]
Belkior d20+13=31 Saturday December 8th, 2007 10:47:13 PM
The halfling cleric moves up close behind his companions. This is very clearly not the realm of Alemi and Belkior feels the weakening of the connection to his God. He listens to the words of the imp then leans ahead to whisper in Wynn's ear. Knowledge Religion = 31
"I think that this is Gimp the Imp, an important servant of Gargul. Speak carefully to him."
Bin Sunday December 9th, 2007 10:52:43 AM
He bows respectively to the imp in the land of the dead, at least as much as possible with his current load. Bin decides, everyone attempting to answer would just make words garbled, so he lets those that have known Lang longest, plead for the return of his life.
He takes in the landscape, at least as much as possible, while carrying a bigbear around. He wonders at the Woldsblood and what kinds of power causes it to course through the realm of Gargul.
Syr Sunday December 9th, 2007 4:47:22 PM
Syr looks around this alien landscape with curiousity and a bit of awe. He nods agreement with Wynn, "If anyone deserves a 2nd chance, it's our friend Lang here."
Role Call ADM Scott the Southern Monday December 10th, 2007 12:34:40 AM
Cayzle XXXXX Xenia XXXXX Wynn XXXXX Angus XXXXX Bin XXXXX Belkior XXXXX Syr XXXXX
Gargul (ACDM Nellie) Tuesday December 11th, 2007 12:01:48 AM
With a bizarre little chuckle the imp thumbs his nose at Wynn. "Okay...gotcha, but gotta warn ya...he's seen a lot of you types lately...he's getting kinda cranky."
The imp disappears and leaves you in the strange landscape for what seems like ages, but is in fact probably only a few minutes. And then everything goes dark. Nothing is visible, even to those with darkvision. It is as if everything that ever was has dissolved. And through the darkness comes a voice; weary but authoritative. "Gimp tells me that you are here to beg for the life of your friend. Tell me out of all of the souls that come before me every day, why is it so important to upset the natural order so that your friend should return?"
The sound of rushing wind coupled with a flicker of light reveals a dark robbed figure sitting on a throne and Lang's ethereal soul floating nearby. The voice is directed toward Lang this time. "As for you...what do you have to say for yourself? Did you throw away your life? Did you treat it carelessly? Do you value it? Should I agree to return you, how will you act, so that I do not see you again soon?"
The figure waits. He remains silent while he awaits the answers of one and all.
Wynn Brightsong d20+14=22 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 7:44:50 AM
"Why Lang...because he has suffered so much and yet provided so much hope to others. His soul, forged in the crucible of hardship, did not turn inwards, but rather faced the Wold with renewed energy. Turned into a bugbear, he bore the transformation with grace, never complaining. He has been a force for fairness, a Crimson Shield of Hope"
Wynn takes a knee as he delivers what he hopes will prove sufficient endorsement of Lang's character [Diplomacy 22]
Lang Tuesday December 11th, 2007 10:42:26 AM
Lang is a little overwhelmed when he realizes who the figure is on the throne and how close he is to him. Then Lang realizes that the God is speaking to him directly and that he must have died in the battle against the cleric and his summoned creatures. It must have been that pesky air elemental, Lang thinks. Lang is glad to see that he is the only one that died. Lang gathers his thoughts and answers the God's questions.
No, I did not throw my life away. I, and my friends here, try to do the right thing. We try to help out the less fortunate than ourselves. We put ourselves in danger when no one else will, because it is who we are. We were brought to this region by a god to rid the area of an evil threat that turned out to be a dragon and a cleric of Ga'al. I am assuming, since I am the only one dead that my comrades were victorious and the Wold has been cleansed of some evil.
The only value of my life is what it can do for me to eliminate the oppressors of the Wold. If I am returned to the Wold I will not change who I am. It is in my core being to fight for the helpless to make their lives better. That will put me in situations where death can and probably will occur. I cannot be worried about standing in front of you again. I cannot be in battle thinking about saving my own life because of my fear of returning here to you. That may get my friends killed and I cannot accept that. If that is not acceptable to you then keep me here.
If you send me back, you may see me tomorrow. And if you do, I can guarantee you will see some of my enemies first.
Lang glances over to the Shields, wondering if this is the last time he will see them.
Xenia d20+7=11 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 10:42:55 AM
The dark, half-elfish girl wraps her arms before her, holding herself in the unnatural dark and wishing it were Wynn instead. But they all gotta stand on their own. Stand or lose. Just 'cause there ain't no hitting, no blood and sword slashing, don't mean this is less a struggle. And now the question's out. Why?
Bliss. The old elf guy had been going to a happy place. Lang could be going to a happy place.
"Lang's a fighter, Mister Gargul, Sir. In the time I knew him, he spent most of it fighting to make other folks happy. I dunno if he'd be happy if he were just himself happy by himself without being able to make other folks happy. Does that make sense?" (Diplomacy 11)
Humbled Bin d20+9=21 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 11:20:48 AM
"It is true Gargul, we have no right to demand that which is not ours by right, but perhaps, we can grovel in front of you, to prove to you that Lang is a necessary force in the Wold in which we live. We humble ourselves before your greatness and I am not worthy to shine the shoes on your magnificent feet, but if you require some compensation for the return of his life, it can be assured a body count of evil can be magnified ten fold, if you allow Lang to depart with us."
Diplomacy 21 to convince Gargul to allow Langs life to return.
Lang (2nd post) d20-1=7 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 11:34:56 AM
Diplomacy 7
Angus Tuesday December 11th, 2007 1:07:50 PM
Angus bows low to the hooded figure but similes when he spots the floating form of Lang. "Lang has been our friend for a long time and has helped us defend those that are not able to do so themselves. Lang protects us and our causes to fight for those that have too much against them to have much of a chance at life. Most recently, we were attempting to give those of Stone Gap a chance at free will."
Angus continued d20+10=22 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 1:09:08 PM
Diplomancy 22
Syr d20+18=28 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 9:12:09 PM
Syr takes a deep breath and places one knee on the ground beside the body. Syr looks down at Lang and touches the ranger on the forehead gently yet fondly as he recalls the first time they met with Wynn alongside. "Lang is at heart a gentle soul. When we first met, he was the archer, protecting the group from afar much like an angel. During the times of trouble, he was changed. After the change to a bugbear, he wore that shape not with pride but rather stoically. He took the racial taunts and slurs without retaliating. The change also forced him to adapt his role within the group. He shouldered the responsibility without complaint. He became the strong right arm of the group, placing himself squarely in the middle of all conflicts. I would ask you, not just for his sake but for ours, Would you deny us that arm?" He peers up at the god meeting his gaze for only a moment. (Diplomacy 28)
Shaking his head to clear the cobwebs, he looks around and whispers, "Where did that come from?"
Belkior d20+6=16 Tuesday December 11th, 2007 9:34:53 PM
The halfling cleric listens to what his friends say to the God of Death. Belkior was the one who opened the portal to this place and it seems that he may have the final statement.
"He was a friend," the Paragon says as he gestures towards Lang's shade. As he does so, Belkior is trying to discern whether his companion wears the form of a human or of a bugbear.
"He was a friend not just to myself after I joined this group, but to all those that we aided. The others have said it better, much better in many cases. I can't add much more except to say that if you impose any burden upon Lang, I am willing to shoulder a portion of that burden."
Diplomacy = 16
Gargul (ACDM Nellie) Wednesday December 12th, 2007 12:37:24 AM
As Wynn and Syr mentions Lang's trials and actions in bugbear form, Gargul looks contemplative. "Yes, the actions of meddlers such as Ebryon has brought much needless suffering on many, but compared to many your friend suffered little. Countless scores of souls were brought to my realm on those days, and many were the petitions of loved ones for their return..."
He looks over at Syr. "You say that he is your arm and that you must have him back. But tell me...what of the countless orphans that cry out for the souls of their parents. Do they need them any less than you desire your friend? Or should I honor you rather than them simply because you "adventurers" have the means to address me in person?"
Then the deity's piercing gaze shifts over to Angus and the grimace lifts a little. "You protect the weak and those who cannot defend themselves. Ahhh...so then, perhaps I should not subject you "adventurers" to death at all? What is life without death? Would you value your life as much without it?"
The grimace on Gargul's face deepens to a full fledged frown as he listens to Bin. He shakes his head in distaste. "I do not desire your false worship and patronage. Neither do I desire more souls to travel my Realms..."
The god snaps his fingers and the bugbear body weighing down Wynn dissolves into nothingness, though Lang's ghostly body (no apparent shape as of yet) remains floating nearby Gargul. He shakes his head at Lang. "You say that you will not change your ways. And yet, here you are, separated from those who call you "friend". You have much to learn...perhaps you should stay here longer with me until you can learn to value the gift of life..." Far from anger, Lang senses a small level of frustration from Gargul....like a teacher who is trying to impress a great truth upon a young scholar.
Wynn Wednesday December 12th, 2007 7:54:57 AM
The bard remains on one knee in deference to the god before him. "You speak great truths Lord Gargul, some of which remain beyond our limited view. But you also speak of orphans, and there we have some small knowledge. We have each in our way, pledged our support to the Orphanage originally run by Mama Faust. She herself has passed on, and the orphanage has had to move twice, but thanks to Lang and ourselves it continues."
Wynn thinks about Gargul's words. "T'is true we each risk our lives more than most, but not because we value it less. Lang, like us, does not risk his life without great reason. The lives of others and the quality of the lives of many must hang in the balance. How many would have suffered in Stone Gap and elsewhere if the Ga'alians had not been resisted? How many lives were saved by Lang's actions in the Tombs of Ahtmahlanto or by his actions against the orcwarts and invading plants during Ebyron's uprising. In each case we freely risked death, but only because many more would be spared."
Xenia Wednesday December 12th, 2007 9:03:29 AM
"You see! You see! There you go, Lang. Belkie was always telling you how you shouldn't be hurting yourself with those swords. Now see where it got you? Dead, huh? Even Lord Gargul, God of the Dead agrees."
The girl rogue throws her arms up into the air and rolls her eyes.
"But really, Your Holy Deadness, Lang means well. I mean, it's like we all think the same. Folks gotta live to their full potential, you know. That way, when they finally die, they can go to your place all happy and content that they lived a life that they can be proud and satisfied with. We help folks do this. It's not about being against death. It's about being for the right kind of life."
"It's important to all of us. But I guess it's just more important to some than to others. And Lang, I guess, he takes it a little too much to heart. He just needs to learn that you gotta help your self a bit before you can help others. I mean, you can't help folks when you're dead, you know? Right?"
"Right?" She turns to her fellow Crimson Shields.
"And that being the case, we were just wondering whether you'd give him a second chance to learn this lesson. A second chance to help send folks your way content and, you know, like, more ready for death?"
Angus Wednesday December 12th, 2007 9:34:36 AM
Angus remains bowed at the waist and echos Wynn's words "Oh Gargul you are correct about the orphans crying for lost parents. Our Wynn has indicated, orphans are some of those that we offer our protect and our love to and Lang was a large part of that venture. It would be good to see the kids get to play with there giant teddy bear. Lang warmed the hearts of those that were less fortunate."
Bin unleashed Wednesday December 12th, 2007 12:08:18 PM
Bin is very upset with the words Gargul spoke to him, How dare he assume I would worship a god of death, how absurd! I show a little respect to an immortal and it gets this kind of attitude?
"We are better then the parents of orphans you have here!" Bin blurts out. "Also, we are not adventurers, we are hero's!" If Lang's body is still supported, he drops his end and takes a step to Gargul. "So, all bull dung aside, you want to hear the unpolished truth, we are better then others here. Why, because, we put time and effort into helping keep your realm free of the weak and innocent. If it wasn't for people like us, this place would be full of peasants and parents and children, all killed after being abused by the hands of those we wish to seek out and destroy." He points toward Lang's dead form, "If not for people like him, you would have lines of people here with no where to go, tormented by the tortures of their life. Being a hero takes exceptional people, like Lang, not everyone can do it, so yes, we are better then most here, but not from a moral stand point. I think most people would like to be hero's and do what we do, but we were gifted, by immortals like yourself, to go above and beyond the library or plow. As long as there are people in the Wold that want to send others to you prematurely, then people like us are needed to brace against that migration of death."
Bin fully expects to be slapped down by the god, but he will be damned if his last words are to meekly accept the scorn from one he has never prayed to. Domi help him.
Angus (Second Illegal Post) Wednesday December 12th, 2007 4:44:48 PM
Angus, while still bowed at the waist will shuffle slowing and cuatiously away from Bin.
Syr Wednesday December 12th, 2007 6:27:57 PM
Syr looks up at Bin in alarm, whispering softly to the priest, "Careful there, we aren't trying to TRADE you for Lang, just get him back."
To Gargul, "I'm an orphan myself so I can certainly sympathize but look at Lang's life and his impact on other orphans... his work has yet to be completed."
Lang Wednesday December 12th, 2007 7:52:52 PM
Lang listens to Gargul as he responds to his friends plea to bring him back to life. His friends respond back, some rather passionately. He smiles at the friendship that they show for him.
Gargul, the creatures and people I kill and send here to you are not good. They bring misery and death to many people. The difference between them and me is that they kill for profit or for power. I do it to help people have peace and enjoy their lives.
I would very much like to go back with my friends and continue our quest of helping the less fortunate. But as I have said, I cannot change who I am.
My life, or should I say death, is in your hands.
Belkior d20+6=18 d20+13=18 Wednesday December 12th, 2007 10:21:41 PM
Even while he is edging away from Bin, the halfling cleric is thinking about the god's words. Belkior recalls something about Gargul's responsibilities.
Once the god has responded, Belkior will once more attempt to speak for Lang.
"Gargul, you have said that you are reluctant to release Lang's soul from your domain. Is a trade not possible? We petition you because we feel that Lang came to you before his time. Is there not some villain who has unnaturally prolonged their tiem in the Wold, who you would wish delivered to you?"
Diplomacy = 18, Knowledge Religion = 18
Bin Thursday December 13th, 2007 12:16:49 PM
The protector stands calm and reserved after his speech. He watches the others without emotion as they attempt to get out of harms way, yet he is confident, that his words are true, at least to himself. He too, is an orphan, never knowing his parents. As far as he is concerned, the children that lost theirs are lucky to at least having known them.
Gargul (ACDM Nellie) Friday December 14th, 2007 12:47:25 AM
Gargul's face lightens when Xenia speaks...could that be a smile under the cowl? "Little one, you are wiser than you think."
Wynn and Angus speak and the god of life and death nods.
Then Bin speaks passionately about how heroes are better than common folk by nature of being guardians for the helpless. The cowl tips back slightly and Bin can see one eyebrow raised...is it in anger or interest? Gargul takes a deep breath. "For one so foolish you are very wise...but for one so wise you are also foolish. You have answered my question both wisely and passionately. Heroes do protect the innocent and prevent needless death. But, you lack respect...you should remember whom you have come before..."
Gargul patiently listens to both Syr and Lang, once more nodding.
And finally Belkior says his peace. Again there is a twitch at the corner of the deity's mouth, perhaps a smile attempting to break through that ever present scowl. "Your proposal is acceptable to me. In order to give the Protector of Domi more time to learn respect, all of you will stay here in the Shadow Lands. Gimp will inform you of the mission I require of you before I allow your return to the Wold. Should you serve me well then I will allow the permanent return of your friend. In the meantime..." Gargul snaps his fingers and Lang's former, human body forms beside Xenia. Like a rush of air, Lang's soul rushes forward into the empty container.
With one final nod toward the group Gargul disappears, leaving you alone in the bizarre Shadow Realms.
Bin Friday December 14th, 2007 1:37:28 AM
The protector scoffs, "What the? I show him respect and I get scorn, I tell the truth and I am foolish. I need to take another course in religion I suppose?"
He looks to the others and shrugs his shoulders.
Angus Friday December 14th, 2007 8:56:33 AM
Angus considers Gargul's words, a small quest for Lang's life, we can do that. Angus watches Lang for signs of life and comments "I thought Lang was a human? Now he get to be an elf. That boy has more shapes than my polymorph spell."
LOL!! That's what I get for not doing my homework!! Post changed.---Nellie
DM Cayzle OOC Friday December 14th, 2007 2:14:56 PM
Although you all are most welcome to visit the Catacombs and go shopping, no actual purchases can be completed until you return to the Wold proper. Or come across the Realms of Shadows branch of the magic shop!
CDM Jerry Friday December 14th, 2007 3:55:10 PM
Greetings Woldians!
I am excited to tell you that BIG, even HUGE changes are coming for The Wold. The Wold is evolving and everyone one of you will be affected. But I'm not going to tell you about it here. I'm just going to whet your appetite:
--A new type of game --Major changes to the website --Greater choice for both DMs and players!
I will begin introducing the new material in the LnB sometime between now and Monday. You will need to start watching that board daily to understand what is going to be happening. This process will be ongoing for a bit, so you really do need to view the Loot 'n Booty board daily starting now.
I'm mass emailing this and also posting it on every game board so everyone sees it.
Enjoy your weekend!
Jerry
Xenia Friday December 14th, 2007 4:11:43 PM
The darkness melts into the grayness, and at last it feels safe enough to move.
"Jinkus Krispies, Bin! GET US ALL KILLED, WHY DONCHA!" Green eyes cat-wide she throws her arms into the air again.
"I mean, just when you thought you'd lived through being 'ttacked by a dragon, you go and try getting a god mad at us. Heinous humpies! You got a club for that sort of thing don't join us up for it, huh?"
The girl rogue staggers a few steps to a small hummock of something and hunkers down on it till her legs stop shaking.
"mesum finus deblugi nazzbut ... " Muffled incoherent words make their way through the skinny arms in which her face is buried. Finally, her breathing seems to come under control. One. Two. Three deep breaths, and without lifting her head ...
"Now how the frack framming fornitz do we get outta this place?"
Lang Friday December 14th, 2007 6:42:58 PM
A quest ofr my life, Lang thinks as Gargul disappears. What has he gotten the group into?
It takes a moment for Lang to realize that he has been turned backed into his human body. Just like last time when he changed it takes a second to get adjusted to the new form. He looks around at everyone.
"What happened with the Cleric?"
"Where's Sunshine?"
"What do we do now?"
Syr Saturday December 15th, 2007 1:43:14 AM
Syr glares at the priest, "Respect? Bin what are you thinking? This place creeps me out, just say a few more 'yes sirs' so that we can get here."
To Lang, he walks up and shakes the ranger's hand, "It's good to have you back... and if you had mirror, you would see your ugly old mug again. Guys, for those of you that don't know... meet the REAL Lang."
Smiling warmly, "To sum things up, the cleric got you, I got the cleric, Wynn went crazy on the dragon and Angus got the dragon."
Syr looks around for Gimp and waits patiently for the creature to speak.
Bin Saturday December 15th, 2007 1:26:31 PM
The protector is torn between outrage and frustration. If not for Domi, he would still be a beggar on the streets, fighting for a scrap of bread. Now, he faces gods and pleads for one of their own. It could be worse, he believes. Yes, there is still much to learn.
"He's the god of life and death. He may torment us, but I doubt he will kill us before our time. After all, I didn't call him names, I just spoke the truth."
he looks around for Gimp, so that they can leave ASAP. "I hope our treasure is still there when we return."
Wynn Sunday December 16th, 2007 11:36:07 AM
The bard's heart skips a beat as Gargul proclaims their detention in the realm of shadows. Of the many tales he has heard of this realm, few have had a happy ending, and he wonders who, in this tale, will be left behind...
Gimp Has A Job For You. Or does he? (DM Cayzle) Monday December 17th, 2007 7:01:25 AM
Just to set the scene a little more clearly:
You are beyond the portion of the Realm of Shadows that is contiguous with the Wold Proper. That is, the Realm of Shadows is not here superimposed over the True Wold that you know. (In D&D terms, this is more "astral" than "ethereal.")
Even the arcanists among you have no idea what would happen if you cast a spell like Blink or Dimension Door here. Can you open a Bag of Holding? Do you *want* to know what would happen if you tried?
You are standing on the slope of a vast hill. The incline is not dramatic, but it is clear. Belkior knows that the way back is uphill ... and he is confident that he could lead you safely back.
If you make a Knowledge(Planes) check vs DC15 or a Knowledge(Arcana or Religion) check vs DC25, then you know that Highlight to display spoiler: {walking downhill will bring you to the vast river-sea of Woldsblood that separates the Wold from the Lands of Rest where the dead and the gods dwell.}
The hill is covered in short, soft blades of grass, but they are grey, or maybe it's just that everything seems grey here. There is shadowy illumination everywhere -- it allows you to see, but everything and everyone has a 20% miss chance, should it come to combat. Overhead is total blackness, a night sky without moon, stars, or clouds.
But this is not a silent place, oh no. For one thing, there are rivulets and streams of Woldsblood rushing downhill. The sound of the 'blood flowing is like that of many mountain streams, but with a thick quality to it. If you stray from Belkior's safe path home, you may well have to cope with those obstacles. And if you make a Listen check vs DC15, then Highlight to display spoiler: {from the streams you hear faint voices, too soft to understand.}
Out from the shadows bounces the short malformed imp, the servant of Gargul named Gimp.
"Have *I* got a job for *YOU*!" shouts the weird-looking creature.
"*HAVE* I got a job for you?" he asks, looking puzzled.
"Have I got a *JOB* for you." he says, looking at your faces.
DM Cayzle OOC Monday December 17th, 2007 7:10:22 AM
By the way, you have any of the dragon loot/gear that you want. If you lose or use anything up, you can't sell it at the CC!
You have not had the chance to receive CC deliveries yet.
Sunshine and any treasure you do not have has been left behind in the Wold. If it is any consolation, Belkior suspects that any returning survivors will find that no time has passed in the Wold while you are here.
Angus d20+10=30 Monday December 17th, 2007 9:08:26 AM
Knowledge arcana 30 (natural 20)
Angus realizes that the group does not want to go toward the WOldsblood "Lets get up the hill and out of here as fast as we can. This place gives me the creeps." Angus will start up the hill and look back at Lang.
"How are you feeling Lang?"
Xenia d20+16=26 d20+21=22 Monday December 17th, 2007 9:23:34 AM
The soft weerdo voices of the gray place play at the tips of Xenia's dark pointed ears. Murmuring. Stream-like. Or, rather, like a stream. Calming. The sound penetrates the barrier of her folded arms. This, more than the voice of the weerdo imp guy, is the strength that lifts her face from the cradle of her arms. (Listen 26)
"So, you got a job for us or don'cha?"
"I mean, sorry ... " She rises with lithe grace to her feet and steps quietly to Wynn's side. "Don't mean to sound ungrateful or nothing. Means a lot to get Lang back and all. But I hope you can understand, it's been a long few days for us. Be nice to go home, you know."
Xenia takes a look out into the strange gray land of the dead and anxiety blurs her eyesight, flattening the landscape into an indistinct panorama of incongruity. (Spot 22/Nat1) She puts a hand on Wynn's arm, drawing comfort from his presence. If not for him, she'd almost think to just give up and die.
Bin d20+3=16 d20+6=14 Monday December 17th, 2007 11:29:05 AM
Bin Berry is not one to be a coward, nor is he completely dense, but there is so much here that could be discovered and recorded for the scribes later. He's almost tempted to take a chance and use his Handy Haversack to see what would happen. A tug of his common sense tells him to investigate the wolds blood. Determine it's power and use it against the forces of evil. He slowly starts to leave the path to the nearest stream, but the reality of the situation stops him before he could allow that to happen. Torn, his curiosity does not get the better of him. He remembers the time he was curious about an open door in an alley way. After he investigated that, he discovered a working kitchen with wonderful smells, but before he could savor the richness of flavors, the chef returned and beat him with a sharpening strap, chasing him off into the glum of a hostile city.
His feet, continue to find the others until Gimp returns to speak with them. This time, he just listens.
Arcana: 16 Listen: 14
Lang Monday December 17th, 2007 1:56:34 PM
"I feel ok Angus. A liitle weird feeling, like the last time I changed."
OOC - what are my HPs at?
"Good job Syr. I knew I was in trouble whent he cleric touched me and I felt my life force drain down to almost nothing."
Lang listens to the strange creature trying to make sense of what he is saying.
Syr Monday December 17th, 2007 8:01:36 PM
The elf grins at Lang, "Yup, it's good to have you back. Now let's see about getting us all back."
Syr nods at Gimp and prompts him gently, "Gimp, the boss mentioned that you do have something for us, any idea what it is? This place looks relatively harmless if only a little drab."
Belkior d20+13=27 d20+8=14 Monday December 17th, 2007 9:21:28 PM
The halfling cleric points to the rivulets of woldsblood that are running down the hillside. Belkior knows what the potential dangers of this material are and doesn't want any of his companions to inadvertently fall victim. Knowledge Religion = 27
"Don't touch any of that! It's the pure essence of the Wold. Or magic. Or both ... either way, touching it without the proper preparations is nearly always fatal."
"Let's go up that way, back home."
Belkior starts walking uphill until the Imp appears. His brows frowns, wondering exactly what he has bargained himself and his companions into.
"What kind of job, Gimp?"
Wynn Monday December 17th, 2007 11:55:38 PM
The bard gives Xenia a reassuring squeeze and readies himself for whatever comes their way. "C'mon Xenia, lets head uphill."
Gimp Remembers! (DM Cayzle) Tuesday December 18th, 2007 3:19:23 PM
With a twinkle in his eye and a smile that suggests he had never forgotten, Gimp exclaims, "Oh, yeah! Now I remember! You guys have a big job! A BIG job!"
"The Boss knows that something bad is going on over the hill. But all his Eyes are blinded when they go near. The Boss thinks it's undead and witches. But he thinks EVERYTHING is undead and witches. So who knows."
"Your first job is to come with me, spy it out, and come back to tell me what it is. Okay? The second job will probably be to get rid of it."
If you have questions, ask Gimp. If you agree, follow him up the hill.
Xenia Tuesday December 18th, 2007 8:08:27 PM
"Yeah. Sure, Wynn." Xenia heads up the hill beside her guy while the weerdo imp yatters on.
"Spyin'. I can spy, Wynn."
"Hey, Imp Guy, how far away is this place? 'Zit gonna take long to get there? I ask a'cause all my food is in my bag, and if the other guys can't get into their bags like me, we're gonna get awful hungry a'fore this is done."
"'less'n, that is, you can take us back to the Wold for supplies and then bring us back to help you, that is." The weird gray ground crunches under her small booted feet as she swings easily up the hill. "Can you do that?" she asks.
"Can you?"
Bin Tuesday December 18th, 2007 8:53:11 PM Undead, i can usually handle undead. Somehow I get the feeling this is one of those unusual situations.
"Pardon me Gimp, but just out of curiosity, is my power over the undead, elementals and devils work here, or should I prepare for melee combat?"
Angus Tuesday December 18th, 2007 9:06:56 PM
Angus looks around at his surroundings and mutters "Nothing can be easy or free."
Angus sees that Xenia is moving off and casts message spell on the group. "Tell us what you see Xenia. The rest of us will follow at a more casual pace."
Angus looks at Gimp "Are you coming along too?"
Angus will then cast Mage armor on himself for good measure. "I got a bad feeling about this place." Angus mutters again.
Lang Tuesday December 18th, 2007 9:52:34 PM
Lang starts to head towards the front of the group, but at the last moment remembers he isn't the big, hairy bugbear anymore. He looks around at the Shields gauging each ones abilities. Still need to be up front he thinks.
Pulling out his bow, he heads towards Xenia to do a little scouting.
Wynn d20+12=30 Tuesday December 18th, 2007 10:30:07 PM
Wynn begins walking up the hill at a moderate place, resigned to his current circumstance.
"Back in the Culverwood I happened upon an old blind man who told me an incredible tale about this place." Wynn waits to see if he has an interested audience before continuing.
"Turns out he was once a bard of great renown. T'was said he had a voice as clear as cold night air, that when he sang, the trees would bend closer just to hear him. He fell in love with a nymph that lived in a nearby glade. Alatariel was so beautiful that he was at times lost for words or song in her presence. Alas, on the day he was to be married, she was bitten by a venomous snake and perished. He found her lying peacefully by a small spring, and could not revive her.
He mourned her greatly, and fell disconsolate into a grey fog, without laughter or song. Knowing he could not live without her, he braved his deepest fears and entered the shadowlands in search of Gargul. He must have come near this spot, for he was carried across a great river of woldsblood to an audience with the lord of life and death. He was afraid, and as bards are want to do, he sang to bolster his courage. So sweet were the sounds and so mournful the lyrics, that even the strange denizens of this realm could not but listen. Even Gargul was moved by his song, and granted him the return of Alatariel. Go back to the Wold of the living. Go quickly while my minions are stilled by your song. Do not turn back. Your love shall follow, but should you look back to her, she will return to me.
Obediently he turned his back to Gargul and followed his own path back out of the shadows. All the while he listened behind him for the faintest sound of his love's footsteps. The path home was long and arduous and many times he stopped to rest, and to listen. The farther he travelled the more desparate he became, no longer believing that Gargul would return Alatariel to him. As he approached the portal to the Wold he knew, he could bear it no longer. He spun around to search for his betrothed. There she was, but as soon as he turned, her face saddened and she began to fade. He raced back down the path after her but she was nowhere to be seen. The bard spent many days, perhaps weeks, searching for Alatariel in the shadowlands, but to no avail. When he finally returned to the Wold, he was not himself. Mad with sorrow he wandered the Culverwood, raving and crying pitiously. He found no beauty in the Wold and in madness blinded himself with coals. He begged for death, but none would satisfy him. And so I found him many years later, broken and old, awaiting only death to reunite him with Alatariel." [Perform=30]
Belkior Tuesday December 18th, 2007 10:42:51 PM
The halfling cleric listens to Gargul's minion describe the coming tasks. Somehow, Belkior thought that the Shields might be faced with something like this.
"Before we go rushing off willy-nilly, we should prepare ourselves. It might be a strange question, but who has tried to cast spells here? Did they work normally?"
OOC - Mr. DM Sir ... do the spellcasters have normal access to spells?
Bin second post Tuesday December 18th, 2007 11:24:44 PM
Bin weeps with the tale. Moved by Wynn's words. He wonders on their situation and shakes his head. "Um, did you learn to do that, or does it just come naturally?"
Syr Tuesday December 18th, 2007 11:30:07 PM
After a long look down at the river for the sake of curiousity, he sighs and trudges up the grey hill. After seeing Lang resumes his place near the front of the group, Syr tags along at the rear figuring to get near the front quickly if something happens.
He calls ahead to the sorceror and anyone else listening, "Hey Angus, do you think we get paid for this big job? I mean... it's nice to have the big guy back and all but most people get paid for work... I know we have to pay to keep employees in the construction business. I'm not being too picky am I?"
Role Call ADM Scott the Southern Tuesday December 18th, 2007 11:41:52 PM
Cayzle/Nellie XXXOX Angus XXXOX Wynn XXXOX Bin XXXOX Syr XXXOX Lang DXXOX Xenia XXXOX Belkior XXXOO
Angus (second illegal post) Wednesday December 19th, 2007 6:57:18 AM
Angus looks at Lang when Syr asks about payment and then to Syr "I think you will have to ask Gargul directly for payment, unless you think Lang is not enough." Angus smiles to himself.
Angus feels heartened by Wynn's story.
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday December 19th, 2007 9:45:21 AM
"Oh Wynn. That is so sad." The rogue continues to follow the bard up the hill as she waits for answers from the Gimpy Imp.
*SMAK!*
Suddenly she slaps him on the arm.
"When it comes time, don't you even think of turnin' 'round and lookin', Mister. I'll be there. You know I will."
Over the Hill and Far Away (DM Cayzle) Wednesday December 19th, 2007 4:49:03 PM
The group follows Gimp uphill and to one side.
Xenia asks Gimp how far away the job is as she walks on the grey grass and up the hill. She is worried about provisions.
Gimp laughs. "You're not hungry! Nor like to be, here! Not while the Boss looks out for you! And we'll get there real soon."
Angus casts a message spell, no problem. His Mage Armor works fine, but is not invisible. The armor is light blue, and looks like smooth plate armor.
Bin asks Gimp if he will be able to cow or destroy the undead.
Gimp answers, "Sure, but maybe not quite so well. Or maybe better! Things go kerflooey strange hereabouts."
Wynn tells a tale, and even Gimp listens spellbound. After the tale, Gimp laughs. "That's not quite how I remembers it, but one thing's for sure -- do what the Boss says if youse wants out in one piece!"
Gimp leads the party over small streams of Woldsblood, and stepping over them is no problem. He leads them to a larger stream -- 25 feet wide, and rushing fast.
If you look into it, you see small bright lights in the liquid from time to time ... the souls of the dead, being carried to the Afterlife. Sometimes you hear them, talking or crying or laughing.
Gimp says, "I can wade through, but you all can't. Can you get across without touching it?"
Xenia d20+21=39 Wednesday December 19th, 2007 5:53:10 PM
The rogue eyes the distance to the far shore.
"Um ... make that No.," she replies. "So, what? We look for a place where it narrows out?"
Raising a hand to shield her eyes from the non-existent sun, Xenia looks both ways up and down the stream. (Spot 39)
Angus Wednesday December 19th, 2007 7:05:32 PM
Angus looks at the stream a bit skeptical "We can not easily cross Gimp. Can you find a different spot? Please give us and idea of what the taks that Gargul has laid out for us. We need to prepare ourselves."
Angus does not want to use too many spells as he has no idea what the group is facing or if they have to come back this way.
Angus asks Gimp one last idea "Do we have to cross back over this stream or any others? It may effect how we proceed?"
Angus looks over at Syr "Can you jump it or do you need a running start?" Angus smiles at the elf under his big floppy leather hat.
Wynn Wednesday December 19th, 2007 10:11:06 PM
The bard rubs his arm where Xenia smacked him. "I know you'll be there...but just don't be sneaking up on me." The widening of the river poses a different problem. "I have but one potion of fly left" he exclaims. "Gimp, are there anymore obstacles like this? Do we come back the same way?" Wynn waits for a response before deciding whether to use the potion.
Belkior Wednesday December 19th, 2007 10:19:11 PM
The halfling cleric looks at the stream in an attempt to determine exactly how wide it is.
"If we can't think of anything else, I could probably use Wall of Stone to bridge the stream. If we can't find another way, I'll cast that spell."
Bin Thursday December 20th, 2007 2:26:30 AM
"I have one Air Walk spell. I could cast it on the fastest or striongest of us, to carry the others across? Perhaps not as dignified as a rock bridge though." The protector offers as a suggestion.
Syr Thursday December 20th, 2007 11:34:12 AM
Syr eyes the width of the stream, "I give it about a coin toss on jumping across, might be a bit too wide. Belk here has the best idea I think. Plus it gives us a reliable way to return."
Gazing down at the stream with curiousity, "Hey Gimp, I don't know alot about this place, what happens if we DO touch it?"
Lang Thursday December 20th, 2007 1:09:23 PM
"I do not have any way of crossing either."
"Sounds like the stone bridge is the best idea."
Angus (s3econd illegal post) Thursday December 20th, 2007 6:54:59 PM
Angus takes off his hat and bows in Belkior's direction "Belkior, kind Sire, please build us a bridge."
Belkior - 2nd Illegal Post Thursday December 20th, 2007 8:59:09 PM
The halfling cleric carefulyl studies the ground on either side of the stream, selecting a narrow spot with exposed stone to base his bridge upon. Once he has selected his spot, Belkior will cast the spell to create a permanent bridge over the flowing Woldsblood.
The Bridge Across (DM Cayzle) Thursday December 20th, 2007 11:35:53 PM
Gimp protests that he has brought the party by the best route possible.
The imp answers Syr, "If you are lucky, when you touch Woldsblood, your soul will be pulled only partway out of your body."
He adds that this is the narrowest spot, and the worst one that you all will see.
He seems glad that Belkior has a solution.
The bridge works fine, and Gimp leads you on across the unchanging landscape.
You come to a place where a woven talisman is set on a stake set into the ground. "I cannot go pass this, but you can," says Gimp.
"Go, find out, and return."
"If you will accept Gargul's Blessing, you may feel more capable to do your tasks ahead."
[OOC: Those who accept the blessing can add their xp to their PC sheets and go up a level. See soon to come e-mail.]
JimF Friday December 21st, 2007 1:00:56 PM
OOC: Waiting for Cayzle's email before I post.
Belkior d20+13=20 d20+13=22 Friday December 21st, 2007 9:12:53 PM
The halfling cleric nods silently at the implied thanks from Gimp. When they reach the talisman, Belkior will visually examine in an attempt to discern why it would serve as a barrier to Gargul's factotum. Knowledge Religion = 20
When Gimp mentions "Gargul's Blessing", Belkior wonders what that might mean. Since he doesn't seem to have any real immediate revelation, it surely can't hurt to ask the Imp.
"What do you mean by Gargul's Blessing, Gimp? Would it be barred to those of us who have sworn service to another God of the Wold?"
JimF Saturday December 22nd, 2007 9:39:09 AM
ooc: Do we apply the experience points, hit points, spells, etc. once we receive the email?
Buzz ooc Saturday December 22nd, 2007 11:20:04 AM
Still waiting on the email as well.
Xenia d20+17=24 d20+3=20 Saturday December 22nd, 2007 3:34:53 PM
"Hmmm. So what are you when you're at home, little guy?" The rogue tips a curious eye to the woven sigil. With a practiced eye, she examines the talisman, the stake, and the area around it, looking for tricksy things. (Search traps 24) Then, with a surprisingly clear head, the dark girl teases at the talisman itself, exploring her memory for all things similar, that might give a clue as to what sort of folks might make such a thing, and just how dangerous such folks might be. (Knowledge Local 20: legends, personalities, inhabitants, laws, customs, traditions, humanoids)
"Hey Belkie, can you spell me up with the Status thingy? Then we'll see what we have in there, huh?"
OoC: Also waiting for the Email to come. An additional Question, do we still have the Message Spell? What's the terrain like? Places for a Shadowdancer to hide?
Wynn [Partial Post] d20+11=12 Saturday December 22nd, 2007 4:29:18 PM
Wynn examines the woven talisman to see if it matches any tales he has heard in his travels, alas he has no memory of any tales at all, other than the story he has already told [Bardic Knowledge Nat 1 = 12].
Waiting for DM email....
Syr Sunday December 23rd, 2007 7:39:33 PM
Syr politely declines holding his two hands up to stop Gimp, "Domi has done well by me in the past. I feel to accept Gargul's blessing would be fine here but may not be the best for the long term."
DM Cayzle OOC Monday December 24th, 2007 12:49:59 PM
Apologies, friends. Holidays are hectic. I'll try to e-mail and post asap -- later today? tomorrow?
Lang Monday December 24th, 2007 12:52:42 PM
Lang is out of his realm here. Literally and figuratively. He wonders how Sunshine is doing. Lang hopes he is not frightened.
Bin Monday December 24th, 2007 2:50:40 PM
Bin watches as others look over the makeshift totem, keeping his eyes behind them and above, out of habit.
Angus Wednesday December 26th, 2007 1:17:12 PM
Angus still seems to be waiting for a sign of some sort before progressing or answering.
OOC: Still waiting for the email.
Bin Thursday December 27th, 2007 12:24:00 AM
Cayzle?
JimF Thursday December 27th, 2007 8:45:15 AM
Does anyone know what is up with Cayzle? Is Cayzle alright?
Role Call ADM Scott the Southern Thursday December 27th, 2007 5:45:47 PM
I'm going to assume everything is okay with Cayzle. Hopefully, he and all of us are devoting a bit more time to family. We'll consider this week as the slow holiday posting. I won't be doing an attendence log this week or next. Personally, I'm using this week to start and finish my catacombs purchase (and obviously some QT with the family). I'm sure ex-Sheriff Al can attest that we do a better than average job of posting daily when comparing groups.
Cayzle Friday December 28th, 2007 8:26:10 PM
E-mail and post to come tonite!
Bin Friday December 28th, 2007 11:18:54 PM
Taking a minute, Bin lets the others decide for themselves, while he casts a spell. he's already upset one immortal today, he terribly concerned about displeasing others.
"Domi, what would be the outcome if Belkior and I decide to accept Gargul's blessing.?"
LOG ON