Substitute DM Kathy Tuesday February 12th, 2008 11:32:15 PM
In the sitting room, the young man bows. "Dino," he says, laying a hand on his own chest. His eyes are sorrowful as he regards all of you. "I am sorrier than I can say. This is...a terrible loss."
Fearing the worst, Picci and Zita ask after their mother and their Nonna. "I am so sorry," Dino says. "Both ladies were slain. There were dozens here who gave their own lives defending them...but in the end, it was not enough."
One of the foremen, years older than Dino, steps forward at this point. "Best sit down, young'uns," he says gruffly. With a narrowed gaze at Dino, he adds, "best to've sat down before all the news came a-flyin', really."
A little flustered, Dino says, "Yes, I'm afraid this is a nasty shock. Do sit down. Can we bring you anything? Are any of you still wounded?" He looks a little helpless as he regards you all. "What--what would you like us to do for you?"
Bendis Wednesday February 13th, 2008 7:35:34 AM
"Suh-slain? Oh no, oh Zita, Picci.."
The portly dawrf gazes at his companions in shock and grief, barely able to cope. Things have gone so wrong, so quickly...
"Why has this happened? I duh-don't understand, there are rules, laws against this sort of thing! How did these all these killers get here? And why? What possible reason could there be for- all this?"
Bendis just wants to run away and hide, to pretend this is all some sort of bad dream. And he could... he could just leave. Just walk away from all this death and destruction and danger... after all, it's not his problem, is it?
He draws himself up to his full height, suddenly flushed with shame at his own cowardice. It is his problem. It became his problem the instant he swore to protect Zita, and in truth it became his problem long before that, when she became his friend. He is duty-bound to stand beside her, and stand beside her he will. Where moments before there was fear and uncertainty, there is now a fierce determination on the balding dwarf's face.
(OOC: Welcome to Fort Silence Kathy, many thanks for taking the reigns!)
Betheas Wednesday February 13th, 2008 1:26:13 PM
Betheas absently gazes straight ahead, mouth slightly agape. His legs and knees have gone dull and painless, as if his head were floating above his body. Looking into the absent distance, he imagines the world as it would have been had things been different, if things hadn't gone so wrong. Maybe by will alone reality could bend into an alternate dimension, a place where things were right.
His thoughts return when his stomach feels as if he might be sick.
Picci Wednesday February 13th, 2008 4:15:16 PM
The petite teenager stiffens then automatically hugs first Zita and Rosario, for they are the Duke and her Protector now. Then she also embraces Gigi, as he, too, was directly connected to the family. Picci's raven head bows for a moment as she silently prays that Gargul judge the souls of Elisabetta and Nonna with the fairness and impartiality that his temple advocates.
Then she lifts her head, her obsidian eyes on Zita's face.
"What would have us do, Your Grace..?" Picci prompts the redhead, her question low but firm--it's an effort to remind Zita of what Nonna had told her before the group had gone on its visit to the other vineyard.
Rosario Wednesday February 13th, 2008 4:30:10 PM There were dozens here who gave their own lives defending them "Why didn't you?" the words came out through gritted teeth and in anger and somewhere in the back of his mind he knew it a terrible thing to say, but also that at this time he didn't care. The foremans comment did not help, Young'uns? He was the Ducal Protector and Zita was the Duchess. Rosario glares hard at the man, but pushes aside the anger this time without saying anything.
Rosario goes over it again, work a problem, occupy the mind. "We need to get some more information. First we need to determine our assets." He looks to the small group, "What is left? Did the house get cleared out, the safes the coffers the papers?"
Rosario is looking to find out about what possessions they have, money, other fixed or portable assets as well as arms and armorments. Horses, out buildings the whole works.
GigiAC17: HP 13/13, Wednesday February 13th, 2008 9:37:07 PM
Gigi looks around at the destruction, everything not quite yet sinking in until he takes a look at Zita and Rosario and realizes that the three of them were nearly the only remaining members of the family. He gives Picci a quick hug back as she comes by and then finds a space to sit down near to Zita as the Foreman and Dino speak. Almost immediately Gigi's hand goes to the side of his face and his scar.
Zita Wednesday February 13th, 2008 10:21:41 PM
The feeling in the pit of her stomache is dropped even lower as the news finally arrives. She wants to withdraw into herself and just wink out but she feels a need to do something. Her emotions war between sorrow and anger...but as most that know her will attest, anger usually wins with Zita.
She accepts the regards that she is give but comes to her feet in an instant. Her eyes turn to the foreman and they are ablaze. "Our first order of business is to know what has been left by these murderers. We will then see to the burial of all those of the house...all of them." Her eyes are as hard as you have ever seen and you know that her fierce pride will not allow even the lowliest servant to not be buried as family...for they were.
Turning she locks eyes with Picci and nods her head. "We will divide the tasks between those of us here and start in. Graves need to be dug and whatever can be found, found." She turns back to the foreman and though her eyes are hard, there is a smile on her face. "We have a duty to continue the line of my family...no our family." She waits to see if anyone has anything else to add as she knows that she is not totally ready for this and she will make mistakes.
Her insides are in turmoil but she knows that for now she must put on the brave act. There will be time for tears and grief later. There will also be time for revenge...no retribution.
Substitute DM Kathy Thursday February 14th, 2008 12:18:10 AM
Dino listens attentively to Bendis's questions. "We're still trying to figure that out," he replies. "We're not sure what happened, frankly. We should send runners to nearby estates, find out if anyone saw or heard anything."
The workers look even more unhappy at Rosario's accusing question. "We were in the fields when it happened," the foreman explains with terrifying patience. "Working. By the time we reached the manor, the deed was done."
Dino takes up the rest of the question. "It doesn't look as if anything large was taken," he says. "Small, portable objects--it's hard to say. We'll want an inventory. Some of the rooms--there's a lot of damage."
The others are too stunned to do much of anything. All but Zita, who shows why she was chosen to be the next Duke.
"Some of the women servants are preparing the bodies for burial now. Your Grace," Dino says, belatedly adding Zita's new title. With gentle prompting he continues, "perhaps you would like the men, here, to inventory the damage? Or check on the animals?"
He hesitates a moment, then adds, "When you are ready, I can take you to see them. Your mother and grandmother. To say goodbye."
Julien Thursday February 14th, 2008 12:43:12 AM Dead?
Julien stands there with the others, trying his best to process the information in a logical manner. But, it didn't seem real, and he keeps asking himself the same question over and over - why? He glances over at Rosario. Yes, he's thinking, something practical to latch on to, lets find out where we all stand. And then we go find whoever did it. That last thought brings a dark frown to his features. But enough of that. Zita needs his support and he'll pitch in with whatever is needed.
Bendis d20+7=12 Thursday February 14th, 2008 8:27:27 AM
A disconcerting thought strikes Bendis. His mind races ahead, exploring possibilities and options, weighing up probabilities. Tugging nervously at his beard he begins to speak, hesitantly at first, then with growing speed and agitation.
"These attacks... they must have been, um, very carefully planned, don't you think? It must have been expensive, all those people, the suh-simultaneous attacks... Someone was extremely determined to wipe out the Montdidier line, and I'm guessing this is not a recent thing. The original duke going missing... it's all tied in, it must be. Someone is systematically trying to wipe the Montdidiers out!
And if that's true, then it won't stop here, wuh-will it? It won't stop until the last Montdidier is dead! Oh, um, Sorry Zita, I didn't mean to... "
The hirsute dwarf flushes as he realises how insensitive he's being. Still, he presses on.
"Uh-I'm sorry, what I meant to say is that this isn't the end of it. Until we find out who's responsible for this, and why, Zita's not safe. If we are going to stay here we're going to need some serious protection, because we can be sure they'll be back. We might want to consider leaving; if we don't provide a stationary target it'll be that much harder for our enemies to strike at us."
He lowers his voice, and draws the youngsters to one side, out of earshot of the others.
"Th-There's one other thing that's worrying me. The attack happened here and at the Green Gnomish brewery simultaneously, didn't it? Well, that means that our movements were being tracked. Someone knew where we were. And instead of tuh-tackling us on the open road where we were alone and vulnerable, they waited until we were in the brewery, protected by its troops and its ex-Dragon member owner, and then launched a full scale assault. Does that make sense to anyone? Why not just kill us when we were on our own?
The only reason I can think of is that the attackers didn't find out we were away from Fort Silence until we'd already left, and were safe at the Green Gnomish brewery. The attack on Fort Silence must have already been planned at that point. At the last minute they changed their plans and attacked both places instead of just Fort Silence, a very risky strategy. Which incidentally, suggests a certain degree of desperation on the part of our hunters. Something worth noting perhaps. Is there a particular urgency to whatever plan they have?
But back to the point; how would they have found out we had left Fort Silence? Spies on the road perhaps? But with the resources clearly at the disposal of our enemy, wouldn't those selfsame spies have been capable of either tackling us on our journey yesterday, or calling for reinforcements to intercept us? It just doesn't feel right to me.
There are only two other possibilities that I can think of. One is that we were being magically scryed upon from afar, too far to reach us before we reached the Green Gnomish brewery. If that's true it's likely we are still being observed now. And running won't help us, I'm guessing (OOC: Spellcraft 12 re scrying: ho hum!)
The other possibility is perhaps even more disturbing. It may be that someone from Fort Silence was feeding information to our enemies. Somebody here was, or perhaps even still is, a spy."
GigiAC17: HP 13/13, d20+2=20 Thursday February 14th, 2008 9:19:52 AM
Listening to Bendis while stroking his scar with his index finger, Gigi nods at a few of the comments and then chimes in on his own.
"Bendis I think you have much of that right. I think I would only add a few things to your thinking."
"The reason they weren't aware of us going to Mistress Dahlia's is that no one outside of this group, Fabersham, Grandmother and Great Aunt knew anything about it or our private conversation. So quick plans had to be made to follow us to where we were going and to send what they thought would be enough strength to take care of us there."
"So that points to this strike being well planned and in the making for quite a while. and it points to there having a spy or more inn the househole somewhere, as I think scrying is to specific a thing to do at more than one place efficiently." spellcraft DC 20
"I also think that it will have to be someone who was in direct contact with Grandmother's household. And as distateful as it sounds, we should probably try and gather up all the bodies of the immediate household, identify them and see whom might be missing."
Turning to Zita and then looking at the Foreman and Dino, Gigi strokes his scar again and continues. "Zita, I am not trying to be an alarmist here, but any one of these "survivors" could also be the spy and or an assassin. So if there is a way of finding out, I think we should do that first."
Substitute DM Kathy Friday February 15th, 2008 12:57:40 AM
In the lingering shock, Bendis begins putting things together. The strikes do seem to look like some sort of concerted attack, but by whom? And to what end?
"You may have the right of it," Dino says slowly. "But if House Montdidier had such an implacable foe, how is it than none of us knows about it? Surely there would have been some hint, somewhere..." he trails off, shaking his head.
Gigi tends to agree with Bendis's assessment--and also puts forth the possibility that there may be a spy in the household.
"The bodies are being laid out now," Dino says. "We should have a casualty list within a few hours. In the meantime...." he looks at Zita. "Your Grace," he prompts, somewhat more forcefully than before. "What would you have your people do for you?"
Julien Friday February 15th, 2008 3:38:28 PM
Julien's eyes move from one friend to another as they talk about the attack. "Let's not overlook the obvious," he adds. "Zita, if they still exist, I think we should go over the estate records, and letters, and look for any connection to the Ga'alian faith and Aisildur."
Julien will volunteer to do this if necessary and with permission.
Bendis d20+4=23 Saturday February 16th, 2008 12:51:26 PM
Bendis twists and untwists his beard, mulling the problem over. Who could be behind this? Perhaps the who might become more apparent if he can figure out the why. He does his thinking out loud.
"Abuelita's husband Giampiero, the Duke of Gnowsy, vanished five years ago, along with your father Eligio. Many other family members have vanished too, right Zita? No-one seems to be sure if they're alive or dead, if I understand the situation correctly. They simply vanished. Then, years later, in fact on the very day that Zita is formally named as the next in line to the Duchy, the Montdidiers are openly attacked by heartseeded mercenaries, as well as by members of an assassin's guild. An expensive and highly risky attack, that doesn't quite pay off. And that tells us our enemy is very wealthy, and has significant connections, to raise a force of so many men (and Aisildurian men at that) so quickly. It also tells us he is desperate: splitting his forces at such a late stage in his plan proves that the destruction og the Montdidier line is urgent to him.
We have to assume, I think, that the disappearance of the male Montdidiers is in some way connected with last night's attack. But if that's the case, why wait five years to strike again? Could it be linked to Zita's ceremony of succession for some reason? Does anyone know, legally speaking, what would have happened differently had the Montdidier line been wiped out before Zita was named successor?
And that leads us, I suppose, to who could be behind this. Is it simply a rival vineyard perhaps? Fort Silence makes a great deal of money from the trade in blue and purple wine with the Taurs. Could the secret of those magical wines be the motive for the attack? But if so, why try to kill all the Montdidiers? Surely the secret could just have effectively been stolen, without all this terrible carnage. No, someone wants the Montdidiers gone. They must have a very good reason.
What was it Fabersham said? The Montdidiers are second in line to the throne? Then surely that places the greatest suspicion on whoever is third in line? Does anyone know who that is?
No, wait! Fabersham said something else: this High Lord Mayor, Sturtavent or something like that, who Fabersham said was trying to usurp the Mondidier's right to the throne? What do we know about him? If he's elected next year he becomes king, right, instead of the Montdidiers? Perhaps he was trying to make sure no-one interfered with that plan. He's certainly wealthy and powerful, and has an urgent motive to see a rival to power eliminated. Could he be our enemy?"
Bendis wracks his brains, trying to recall anything else that might have a bearing on the attack (OOC: Knowledge Local 23).
"Incidentally, your mother wore a ring Zita, the ducal signet ring. I think she would have wanted you to have that, as the new duke. Dino, cuh-could that be fetched please?"
As his thoughts carry him still further his face goes white with shock. "Blessed Alemi! I've just realised... Zita, if the Montdidiers are the rightful heirs to the throne... that makes you the rightful king of New Elenna!"
Beatheas : Scott Saturday February 16th, 2008 9:50:17 PM
[OOC: guys, my father had a stroke Thursday morning; I'm away from home right now and my turns will come as they may. Ironically, check my last post to see how I am feeling right now.]
Betheas stands astonished at Bendis' recogning of the current situation. As far as the elf knew, Bendis was dead on. There was respect to payed to the dwarve's ability to problem solve. The strangely passive drawf had talents; true talents.
Betheas moves to stand next to Zita. Putting on his hardest face, to lend strength to Zita's resolve.
Glancing quickly to Bendis, "are the Aisuldarians at war with the taurs... whom the Montidier family strengthens?" The elven aspect of Betheas' mind leaps to the higher motive.
Rosario Sunday February 17th, 2008 12:05:58 AM
He doesn't answer or even acknowledge the man's answer in any way. There was no point and he was mad as a wet cat being walked on a leash. Bendis and Betheas start talking of far reaching conspiracies and move right up the chain of command to the High Lord Mayor. Sure it made sense, but just about anything would. Take a few bits of information and create a story about them that fits. Rosario finds himself shaking his head. "We need to stick with what we know, not what we can think of that fits what we know. The attackers were heartseeded and therefore Ailsidurian. Here ends our real information."
Looking at Dino, "Start creating that inventory of our household assets. The attack on the road to here tells us our enemy knows they missed the other day. It might also tell them they underestimated our skill in combat and escape." Rosario smirks, "The only reason we are alive probably. The bench warmers came after us dumb spoiled kids. The enemy will now have to re-evaluate us. That will hopefully give us a little time." Rosario looks to Zita, "We have to draft and send an official notification of this attack and we have to do it sooner rather than later. We make multiple copies and send multiple runners from the few workers we have while we still have them. Then, we can tour the house and..." he lets the last part go with a shrug. "well, do what we need and decide where we will be sleeping for the immediate future."
GigiAC17: HP 13/13, Sunday February 17th, 2008 3:06:39 PM
Umm Dino, what about survivors at Domi's temple and compound, are any left alive to send our families on their way to the afterlife? If no one else is available I will make myself available to those who wish my services.
((OOC Jan)) Monday February 18th, 2008 4:44:03 PM
((Just a note, folks - Jim (who plays Zita) is really sick and is taking this week off to get through it. Very nasty case of the flu, I think. So we might have to muddle through a bit for this week unless someone can pick up Zita for a few days.
Also - Scott, sorry to hear about your Dad, and I hope he has a speedy recovery.))
Substitute DM Kathy Monday February 18th, 2008 11:22:49 PM Julien volunteers to go over any papers on the estate.
"Of course, Master Julien," Dino replies. "Most of the records are in the estate office, and I do not yet have damage reports from that part of the manor. Providing the room is safe, I'll have you escorted there."
Bendis continues trying to unravel the plot. When he asks after the signet ring, Dino bows. "I'll have it fetched at once," he says. "My apologies, Your Grace; I should have thought of that myself." He goes to the door and speaks briefly with a servant before returning.
Dino nods to Rosario. "An inventory of sorts is already underway," he says. "Along with a damage assessment. It will take some time, though; there were many valualbes on the property."
A few moments later, a servant knocks timidly on the door and enters. She is carrying a silver tray, and resting on the tray is a familiar ring--one that will grace its former owner's finger no more.
Tentatively, the servant approaches Zita. As she does, both the ring on the tray and the earring in Zita's ear begin glowing, as with white heat. Zita feels her ear begin to heat up noticably.
Picci Monday February 18th, 2008 11:41:13 PM
Picci's eyes narrow when Zita's earring starts to glow again--she reaches for her mace.
"Now what????" she demands, a wild look to her obsidian eyes, expecting the worst.
Bendis Tuesday February 19th, 2008 11:24:43 AM
Bendis glances from one young friend to the next, blinking over his spectacles with disbelief. "Duh-didn't you hear me? Zita's nuh-next in line for the throne! Fabersham said as much! Zita, you're the rightful kuh-king of New Elenna!"
The portly dwarf tries not to look too crushed at Rosario's dismissal of his speculations.
"I was trying to, you know, deduce the most likely suspect based on the information at hand" he mumbles, visibly deflating. "Looking for suspects with muh-means and cuh-cause. And opportunity, too. You're probably right though, Rosario, I'm just guessing really. Suh-sorry."
He gazes down and he realises with a sinking feeling that he's been wearing his velvet tassled carpet slippers since the attack at the brewery last night. They're all worn and spattered with mud. He sighs, long and loud, a profound sense of worthlessness settling over him. He's so despondant he doesn't even notice the glowing earring.
Betheas Tuesday February 19th, 2008 11:43:11 AM
Betheas prepares an attack. Anyone making an attempt at Zita will receive a glaive upside the head.
"I assume now they've failed their mission, they will try again."
Rosario Tuesday February 19th, 2008 2:18:38 PM
Rosario's sword is out in an instant as the ring and earing start to glow. "No apologies needed Bendis, You keep on speculating and putting your brain to the problem. My tone sucked but I was just doing a little devil's advocate, not dismissing you or the ideas."
The whole time, Rosario's head is on a swivel, trying to cover every direction an attack might come from. "Good assumption Betheas, was hoping it would take a bit to restructure though."
"Priorities have just shifted, we need to get to the best defensible place we can that has the proverbial back door. I don't think here is it. Anyone got a hidey hole they used when they were young? Tree house? Old Building? Anything?"
Julien Wednesday February 20th, 2008 12:46:54 AM
"Maybe this is a piece of 'good' news," Julien says, as the ring begins to glow. He waits with the others to see what happens, while part of his mind is partitioned off, thinking on going through the records - he'll have to look for letters, invoices, names and addresses, frequency of, etc etc. Providing everything is okay and no one needs frying, he figures he's in for a late night.
Substitute DM Kathy Wednesday February 20th, 2008 2:17:20 AM Bendis is disappointed that the others don't seem to appreciate his analysis. With events happening so quickly, though, it's perhaps not unexpected that people simply cannot keep up.
Picci, Betheas, and Rosario react with alarm when the earring starts glowing--Rosario asking about a hiding place for the group.
The servant, also alarmed, takes a step or two back. Once some distance is opened up between ring and earring, both stop glowing.
The silence in the room is interrupted by the arrival of some more workmen, who sketch hasty bows to you before moving to speak quietly with Dino. You don't quite hear their reports, but you hear his reply. "The broken pane in the office, first," he tells them. "Clear away the broken glass and replace the shutters. Bring plenty of lamps and candles; it will be dark without the light from the window. Master Julien would go over the records."
To others of the workmen, he says. "Find Bartej, and have him start an inventory of valuables. Begin in the Great Hall. Be sure he notes what needs to be repaired."
He looks again at Zita. "If that meets with your approval, Your Grace?" he asks.
Zita (subbed by Carl) Wednesday February 20th, 2008 5:28:51 AM
Zita shakes her head to clear it; the events of the last few moments have completely overwhelmed her. Bendis' speculations largely wash over her, but one point gets through: if what Fabersham said is true, then she is indeed first in line for the throne of New Elenna behind the Lord High Mayor. The implications of that revelation almost undo her.
But she knows she needs to be strong, to provide leadership. If she breaks, the house Montdidier breaks with her.
Keeping her features stern she nods her approval to Dino. "Carry on, Dino. Also, have the kitchens prepare some soup and bread for everyone. This has been a great shock to us all, and everyone will be in need of sustenance.
Rosario, Betheas, could you gather any available fighting men, arm them if needs be and prepare a guard? We're going to need to set patrols if we're going to be forewarned of any attack, and have an organized defence should the worst happen. Hopefully by the time you're done we'll have that inventory ready, and have an idea if anyone is missing. Julien, please make a start on the paperwork, and Bendis, please keep turning the problem over. We're going to need a list of possible suspects, and avenues of investigation. Perhaps Picci and I can assist with that while the others are busy. Let's head to a more secure location to do that." (OOC: I'm assuming Zita will know the most defensible location in the house? Her mother's audience chamber perhaps? Also, is Zita aware of any hidden rooms or similar as per Rosario's suggestion?)
The glowing ring doesn't alarm Zita as much as it does her companions.
"Stand down my friends. I think Julien's right: Mother wanted me to have this ring, and I'm sure she wouldn't knowingly put me in danger. Approach please." She beckons the servant closer, watching as the ring and earring begin to glow again. Assuming the heat does not grow too intense she slips the ring on.
Bendis d20+7=25 Wednesday February 20th, 2008 8:45:13 AM
The disconsolate dwarf immediately perks up at Rosario's encouraging words. When Zita suggests that she, Picci and Bendis continue to pursue the matter he beams, polishing his glasses nervously to cover his flush of pleasure.
"Oh, um, OK. Well, uh, what do we know?
We know that our enemy is rich, puh-powerful, and has connections that include the Ebon Fold and Aisildurian mercenaries. And that he, she or they have an urgent need to be rid of the House of Montdidier. Urgent perhaps to the point of desperation.
We know that the House of Montdidier (which means Zita) is next in line to the throne of Nuh-New Elenna. Lord High Mayor Sturtavent is contesting that, attempting to establish his own royal line by getting re-elected 3 times. The third election is next year.
That suggests to me that the people with the most to gain from the elimination of the Montdidier line are either the Lord High Mayor, or the next house in line after the Montdidiers. And of course we needn't be talking about the Lord High mayor himself: it could be members of his entourage, determined to ensure their man is made king. Or even a third party with close links to the Lord High Mayor, intent upon exploiting those links. Either way, if the cuh-culprit is the Lord High Mayor or his adherents, then both we and the third house in line are still at grave risk. If it is the third in line to the throne, then both we and the Lord High Mayor are in danger.
All this assumes that the right of succession is the motive behind these attacks. It seems likely; only something so critical could lead an enemy to show his hand so openly. And no-one seems to be aware of any other motive or obvious enemy. But we must assume there are pieces of the puzzle we have not yet seen. A hidden motive perhaps. Hopefully Julien's research will unearth something. Certainly the use of Aisildurians is a bit curious. Is it significant?
That leaves us with what to duh-do next.
Well, um, we have a few leads. We could try and find out how all these heartseeded fellows were able to get into New Elennan territory. That can't have gone unnoticed. Maybe we could try to trace the mercenary outfits responsible, and try to find out where their orders came from. We'll need to search all the dead attackers and see if any clues can be gleaned from there.
Or perhaps we can find out more about this Ebon Fold outfit. Are they a local guild?
We need to find out more about the third house in line. Who are they? Where are they based?
And we need to find out about the Lord High Mayor too. Who is he, what do we know about him, how long do we have until the next election, that sort of thing.
Maybe we can find some of this information in your library Zita, there are sure to be books on genealogy and the like there. Uh, I can do that if you like. "
Bendis scratches an ear, trying to think what other lines of enquiry are open to them. Then the ring and earring begin to glow, and Bendis raises an intrigued eyebrow. "Ooh, that's interesting. Do you mind if I take a closer look?" (OOC: Spellcraft 25 to get an idea of what process is at work, and whether it is dangerous)
GiGi Wednesday February 20th, 2008 6:24:02 PM
Sitting off to one side Gigi seems a bit unnerved still and lost as he considers the possibility that his entire family and the members of his temple are all gone. As Zita starts issuing orders, he perks up a moment waiting to hear what she wants him to do and then slumps back as his name is not called. Almost immediately his hand creeps cheekward and he unconciously begins stroking his scar.
Julien Thursday February 21st, 2008 12:56:38 AM
Julien frowns slightly as he thinks things over. "I don't know about the Lord Mayor," he says, "my Dad has nothing but good things to say about him." But then he shrugs. "However, at this point we can't afford to trust anyone. So..." He gives Zita a mock salute and a wink "I'll get to it." He figures Zita is well protected, especially with Rosario and Betheas around. "If you guys figure out a good hiding place, don't go leaving me in that office, okay?" he grins, joking. "Gigi, can you help me? I want to try and gather relevant documents up if possible, just in case we need to move quick."
Substitute DM Kathy Thursday February 21st, 2008 2:16:30 AM Zita recovers her wits and begins issuing orders. Dino, for one, looks relieved. "At once, Your Grace," he says, and leaves the chamber for a moment.
She gives some thought to defensible locations within the house, and for some reason recalls the old nursery. It is on an upper floor, and the windows--though they let in lots of light--are set high in the wall to prevent little ones from tumbling out. It might do for a refuge.
Bendis continues his analysis, and points to a number of areas where you need more information. Intrigued, he studies the glowing effect as the ring and earring are brought together. He can think of any number of spells that might create such an effect (Light, Heat Metal, perhaps Faerie Fire), and of course just as many illusion spells to make observers believe they saw and felt it. He's not sure, though, which--if any--of these is actually responsible for the effect.
Julien prepares to go to the office, and asks Gigi to assist him. Certainly there will be a great deal of material to go through.
At Zita's urging, the servant bearing the ring approaches again. Again, both ring and earring glow with searing intensity, and Zita feels her ear warm up. As her fingers close on the ring, her eyes roll back in her head and she drops, insensible, to the floor.
Zita, Highlight to display spoiler: {You have a vision, or perhaps a series of visions; it's very confusing. You see the ring, and the earring, and a third item which seems to be some kind of insignia or seal. You see the three items pass through the generations with a dizzying speed. At the last, you have the briefest glimpse of the seal, resting on a dark cusion and illuminated by a shaft of intense light. You can make out no details of the background. When the visions pass, you find that you are lying on the floor. }
Zita (subbed by Carl) Thursday February 21st, 2008 4:54:07 AM
Zita's eyes flutter open. It takes her a moment to get her bearings. She's lying on the floor, her mind reeling from the barrage of images she's just witnessed.
Clambering to her feet she finds a chair and sits heavily, gazing at the ring.
"I think... I think there may be something else we need to investigate" she says slowly, trying to make sense of the intense visions. "I saw... well, I'm not quite sure what I saw. I saw this ring, and my earring, but there was something else too; some kind of insignia or seal. I'm pretty sure that was one of my ducal items too. I saw the three items passing through generations of Montdidiers, one after another, faster than I could keep count. And at the end I had the briefest glimpse of the seal, resting on a dark cushion and illuminated by a shaft of intense light. I couldn't make out the details of the background. But I'm sure that seal is mine, and that it's important. It needs to be reunited with the ring and the earring, I'm sure of it; could that seal be the reason for the attack do you think? Julien, Gigi, Bendis, can you see if you can find mention of it in the library or in the house papers?"
Assuming Betheas and Rosario are still nearby she shares her thoughts about the nursery as a defensible location.
Bendis d20+7=21 Thursday February 21st, 2008 5:09:51 AM
The bespectacled dwarf hurries over as Zita falls, anxiously helping her back to her feet.
Confirming that she is all right he ponders her news. "You saw all that in just those few seconds? Fascinating, that earring and ring are clearly powerful items. The earring was able to serve as a communication device; did your Grandmother or mother have one too? That would explain how she was able to contact you at the Green Gnomish Breweries. Or she may have used the ring. I'll chu-check for you, Zita."
Bendis asks the servant to take him to the bodies of Adelina and Elisabetta. Attempting to keep his horror in check he looks for an earring similar to Zita's, or with any obvious magical aura (Spellcraft 21). He also looks for evidence of the forcible removal of an earring.
That done he heads for the library to carry out some extensive research: - Information on the three ducal items (ring, earring and seal) - Information on the third family in line for the throne - Information on the Lord High Mayor, and the upcoming elections. - He'll also keep an eye out for any mention of Aisildur or the Ebon Fold
Substitute DM Kathy Friday February 22nd, 2008 2:12:41 AM
As Zita lies unconscious, the servant woman attempts to pick up the ring which the young Duke had dropped. As soon as the woman's fingers brush the ring, though, she draws her hand back with a cry.
"Why, it's burning hot!" she exclaims, clutching her fingers.
When Zita recovers, she relates what she saw. She also suggests using the nursery as a secure location--at least, until a better one can be found.
Bendis asks to be shown to the bodies of Adelina and Elisabetta. Dino, when he returns, is happy to convey anyone who wants to pay their respects.
"The ladies are lying in state in the Rose Parlor," he says. "It was essentially undamaged, so it was easier to set things up there."
[OOC: The latest word is that DM Jerry plans to return on Monday. It's been a pleasure DMing for you all, and I hope I haven't messed up the storyline too badly. :) ]
Rosario Friday February 22nd, 2008 12:37:54 PM
Rosario relaxes as Zita catches the group up to what she saw. "Fabersham might not have been entirely accurate. Succession to the throne might solely rest in the ring, Earring and the Insignia and not necessarily the family. Ownership of them is 9/10's the law."
Rosario nods to Dino, "Thank you." AS the others move to work in the library study and other sections of the house, Rosario helps Zita to her feet after stooping with a gauntleted hand to retrieve the ring. His sword returned to the sheathe, he drapes an arm about her shoulders and wordlessly starts moving with her in tow in the direction of the Rose parlor. His mind falls to memories and unconsciously a smile comes across his face and a small chuckle escapes his throat. Not looking at her, he answers the look on her face. "I was just thinking of how much I have always disliked the Rose Parlor. It always meant study and boring lessons. It seems ironic that I would now give anything to sit through a week of those lessons again in that room now rather than fix in my mind what the room will stand for from this point forward."
Rosario enters the Rose Parlor moves with Zita to pay his last respects to his Aunt and Nona. Drawing his father's sword, he takes a knee inbetween them. Bowing his head, Rosario's mind and thoughts turn to prayer and to Pantheon. For guidance, strength and opportunity to see justice done to hand that wielded the weapons and the mind that directed the hand.
Once he's assured she seems to be okay, he says to Bendis - "If you find any info that's relevent on the seal, let me and Gigi know? We'll look around in the office too, while we're going through the records. Hey, Gigi, you still coming with me?"
He then sets off to look through the kept records, specifically looking for any contracts, letters, bills, and other correspondance that mentions Ga'al or Aisildur. He'll keep his eyes open for anything looks like this seal, too.
DECIPHER SCRIPT DC22 KNOWLEDGE ARCANA DC17 KNOWLEDGE GEOG DC5 KNOWLEDGE HISTORY DC18 KNOWLEDGE NOBILITY DC 12 KNOWLEDGE RELIGION DC 20
Untrained search dc 24 untrained Spot dc 9
((OOC - Kathy, that was a wicked job!! Thanks for keeping us going.))
Gigi d20=17 d20+2=19 d20+3=23 d20+3=12 Saturday February 23rd, 2008 9:09:43 AM
At Julian's request Gigi smiles and nods standing and then looking around.
"I would suggest we start at opposite sides and work toward each other. That way if neither one of us finds it on our side we can then easily cover the aea the other has already checked."
"Rosario, you re planning on staying with Zita at all times as her protetion yes? Call me immediately if you need help in any way."
Ok Julian, I figure I might just be able to help you a bit.
Spot DC 12 Knowledge history DC 17 Knwledge arcana DC 19 Search DC 23
Thanks Kathy, you dd fabulously. :>)
Bendis d20+5=10 d20+7=22 d20+3=4 d20+3=23 d20+3=14 d20+4=24 d20+4=16 d20+3=21 d20+2=13 Saturday February 23rd, 2008 6:16:01 PM
Bendis checks Adelina and Elisabetta for communication earrings.
He nods to Julien, then heads off to the library to begin his research.
DECIPHER SCRIPT DC10 KNOWLEDGE ARCANA DC22 KNOWLEDGE GEOG DC4 KNOWLEDGE HISTORY DC23 KNOWLEDGE LOCAL DC16 KNOWLEDGE NOBILITY DC14 KNOWLEDGE RELIGION DC 24
Untrained search dc 21 untrained Spot dc 13
Zita (subbed by Carl) Saturday February 23rd, 2008 6:22:02 PM
Zita lets Rosario lead her to the Rose Chamber, but doesn't trust herself to speak. She feels numb, as if this isn't really happening to her. The orders, keeping up a front of command was one thing, but seeing her dead mother, Nona... the reality of what has happened to her strikes home harder than ever, and she feels the mask beginning to crack.
(OOC: Thanks Kathy, lovely job! Hope my waffling on wasn't too painful!)
Portraits of Three [DM Jerry] Monday February 25th, 2008 11:06:33 AM
The Rose Chamber is beautiful as always. Open to the sky at the moment, open windows bring in the scents from the courtyard garden just outside. Today, however, this is tinted by the smell of smoke.
The two matrons of the house lay in state, unchanged from how they died. A sheet lays over the bodies except for the head awaiting an undertaker to make them presentable for a funeral.
Adelina looks the worst. A huge bruise dominates the right side of her face where something blunt struck her.
Bendis finds no earrings on either woman.
---------
Julien finds nothing about Ga'al or Aisildur in the records. His Knowledge Nobility gives him the idea that the records are for public history and contains nothing private or secretive.
Gigi does find pictures of Montdidier family members in a family history book and in portraits that are around the room. Each formal portrait has three people in it. The duke, and two others. Many of those standing to the right of the duke have holy symbols designating them as a priest or paladin, but not all. All of them though wear the earring that Ziti is now wearing.
To the left, is a mystery. Each person there is painted as if the person to the left of the duke is of equal importance to the person on the right with the earring.
Of course, each duke is painted with the ducal seal on his finger.
Bendis' research names the person to the right as holding a position named "The Protector."
-------
Julien finds nothing of import to the mysteries of the day in the office. There are daily records, profit projections, schedules for pickups, and salary lists. Business stuff.
Nothing found there is in the least suspicious nor sheds any light on the motive for the attacks.
--------------
My thanks too, Kathy. You're a lifesaver!
Glad to be well and back!
Question: Have you guys received xp since I DMed last? I haven't had a chance to read all the posts since Jan 1 yet. Someone email me and let me know where we stand on xp and I'll get you caught up.
daniel k Monday February 25th, 2008 12:29:53 PM
no xp has been distributed
Donna OOC Monday February 25th, 2008 3:38:39 PM
My most abject apologies! I have been trying to get a permanent schedule with my new job (and trying to get my Mom back online, too) and everything just imploded. I've barely had the time to keep up with the game I'm DMing and make the odd post for my other PC. I promise that I'll try to be good from now on! 8)
Bendis Monday February 25th, 2008 5:37:36 PM (OOC: Good to have you back Jerry! Bendis was searching the library for the following information:
- Information on the three ducal items (ring, earring and seal) - Information on the third family in line for the throne - Information on the Lord High Mayor, and the upcoming elections (how long is left!). - He'll also keep an eye out for any mention of Aisildur or the Ebon Fold
Anything on those?)
Bendis loses himself in research, revelling the chance to play to his strengths. This is where he feels most comfortable, between piles of books. Here he can almost forget the horrors that they've all endured. As he studies he chats away to anyone willing to listen to his ruminations.
"Hmm, so the protector wore the earring. That'd be Rosario. Maybe he should have it, except before Zita couldn't take it off. I wonder why Nona gave it to Zita, and not Rosario if he was the Protector?
And the duke wore the ducal ring according to these pictures. That's Zita. Which leaves this third person. I wonder who that was? In her vision Zita said she saw three items. That can't have been coincidence, surely; maybe this third person was responsible for the third item, the insignia or seal you saw. I wonder why it's not shown in these pictures, when the other two items are.
Perhaps what we need is to find someone who really knows their geneology. A specialist in the history of New Elennan nobility. Maybe they could shed some light on why all these portraits have thre people in them, and who the people were."
Zita (subbed by Carl) Monday February 25th, 2008 5:48:32 PM
Zita tries to supress a sob as she sees her mother and grandmother laid out before her. Her hand flies up to cover her mouth, eyes wide with horror. All the self control melts away in an instant, and she finds heself on her knees, tears flooding down her cheeks. Childhood memories come flooding back, of those all too rare moments that she and her mother spent together.
"Oh mama" she whispers, trembling fingers smoothing her mother's hair. "Mama, what did they do to you?"
She allows Rosario to lead her away at last. She is numb with grief.
"Don't... don't let the staff see me like this" she whispers, wiping the tears away furiously.
Betheas Monday February 25th, 2008 9:46:40 PM
[OOC: I'm trying to catch up on posts. Jerry, so you know, my dad had a stroke. I've been away.]
Betheas stands next to Zita and Rosario. His large almond eyes narrow, and his jaw is noticably clenched. He dutifully follows Rosario and Zita out of the room. "We should gather our group and make plans. I assume the third aspect that Bendis spoke of has been stolen, yet we have no way of knowing that for sure right now."
Rosario Monday February 25th, 2008 10:25:44 PM
Rosario stands finally, drawing his dagger, he cuts a lock of each of the women's hair. He places each in his pocket for now and then gives them each a kiss to the forehead. "Rest now and be at peace. I will see our family restored and Zita kept safe. Sleep well momma. Sleep in peace Nonna." Rosario turns his jaw grinding hard and tears coming from his face. He takes Zita by the arm at her request and leads her away. Whatever it is Betheas just said, he has no idea. Tears blur his vision and his blood pounds in his ears. Blindly by memory of a thousand journies, Rosario leads his little sister to the second floor nursery and settles her onto a chair. For his part, he steps to a window and stares out, hands clasped at ease behind his back.
Julien Monday February 25th, 2008 11:19:02 PM
After a long time spent hunched over books and papers, Julien leans back, yawns, and says to GiGi - "There's nothing here." He throws his hands in the air helplessly. "Nothing. Not even anything that suggests a secret code. So, there are no business connections with Aisildur, OR - if there were, the records were stolen. But everything looks as it should. there are no missing batches of numbers, no torn pages." He looks frustrated.
Gigi d20+3=17 d20+3=16 Monday February 25th, 2008 11:23:36 PM
just for the heck of it gigi moves over to the desk again and perversly upends it and looks underneath it and on the bottom sides of all the drawers.
Search DC spot DC 16
Picci Tuesday February 26th, 2008 9:02:46 PM
The young cleric lets the tears flow freely although she doesn't sob out loud. Picci goes to both Bendis and Betheas, saying only one thing that seems to have occurred to her:
"Exactly who is it that would benefit the most from both Mama Elisabetta and Nonna being dead..?"
Betheas Wednesday February 27th, 2008 12:08:17 AM
Responding to Picci, "nobody benefits from death. We are obviously dealing with animals. And they will be dealt with as such."
The elf gives Rosario a break before he starts in again with the call to action.
In the nursery, Betheas ponders the irony of being in that room, as he cleans his glaive off.
Bendis Wednesday February 27th, 2008 4:06:47 AM
Responding to Picci and Betheas, Bendis says; "I-I'm not sure that's true, Betheas. At least the part about nobody benefitting. If Zita was dead too that would be the end of the Montdidier line (as far as I know), and so the end of the Montdidier claim to the throne of of New Elenna. I don't know if you heard me before, but right now Zita is the rightful heir to the throne.
That means that if the Montdiders are killed, the benefactors are either the Lord High Mayor, who can take the throne uncontested, or the third family in line to the throne if they were behind this attack and intend to strike at the Lord High Mayor.
Or, it could be someone who wants either of those two parties to gain the throne ahead of the Montdidiers. Or, there could be a party who would be threatened if the Montdidiers did take the throne. And that's just those who stand to gain if the throne really is the motive. It could be something else entirely.
Whoever did this had a very good reason. An attack of this openess and scale was a risky move, and points to a very strong motive behind the attack. We can be certain this was no random attack, the simultaneous strike on the Green Gnomish brewery proves that. Our opponent is powerful, wealthy and, it would seem, desperate to see the Montdidier line wiped out."
Betheas Wednesday February 27th, 2008 2:40:15 PM
Betheas growls at Bendis, "refresh my mind again about this heir to the throne business. Does one man speaking it... make it so?"
"It could just as likely be about business."
Time To Leave? [DM Jerry] Wednesday February 27th, 2008 2:51:06 PM
Bendis finds nothing in the library about the seal. It is mentioned in lists, with the other two, but does not show up in pictures, nor are any names of those who wore it or who appear in the pictures anywhere to be found.
It is obvious that the information is not in this library for a reason.
Bendis does find one piece of information in a frame on the wall back in the rear of the library almost hidden behind unshelved books: a document signed by a duke of Gnowsy named Alfredo Montdidier, which with a bit more research turns out to be Ziti's great grandfather.
This document sites family reasons for ceding the throne "at this time" to the High Lord Mayor in order to maintain order and peace within the Kingdom of New Elenna. It is dusty and seems mostly forgotten back there behind the books.
The library is mostly educational books concerning the wine business, and related local and regional matters. So there is no information there on who any third family might be or when the next election is. Nothing else appears about the Ebon Fold or Ailsildur.
----
Rosario takes the locks of hair and safely puts them away in a pocket.
----
Julien sees that payroll, employee listing and trade going in and out is the main things that the house office is concerned with. There would be other offices in the wineries, etc. that would cover more specific details of that part of the business.
There is a note of interest in one of the side drawers that Gigi finds in his burst of frustration. It is a memo from Elisabeth asking if all the records were up to date and prepared in case she went on a trip or had to leave for ducal business. Attached to that was a response that the office had been triple checked and was ready to continue on in her absence if needed. Other than that minor detail, nothing else is found.
After everyone's research and searching is completed, everyone reassembles in the Rose Chamber.
The day is wearing on and the guards grow concerned for their responsibilities.
"We think the assassins will return for a third time tonight, sirs. We are going into hiding in the fields. We think you should leave here as well. Soon. Within the hour."
------------ Welcome back Donna. ;)
Scott! Sorry about your dad. Very. I'll pray for him and your family. Do you want to keep playing or take a break, or even just get a sub for a couple of weeks?
[Scott: No Jerry, I think that I am caught up, and I would like to continue to play.]
Sorry for the no post yesterday. I'm not in the habit again yet.
Bendis Thursday February 28th, 2008 10:50:48 AM
"Well," Bendis begins nervously, "Fabersham said that the Montdidiers were next in line to the throne, buh-but that the Lord High Mayor was exploiting a legal technicality to get himself elected Lord High Mayor three times in order to claim the throne.
Now if I remember rightly he said that while both her Grace Elisabetta and Nona were present, and they didn't contradict him, so I'm assuming that at least they believed he was right.
A business rivalry is puh-possibly, but why go to such extreme lengths? Surely robbery or sabotage would have been more in keeping if that were the motive. Perhaps even assasination, but surely not an all-out attack. Why split the attack between here and the Green Gnomish brewery unless the urgent eradication of the whole Montdidier line was required? And why eradicate an entire line unless it were a matter of hereditary rights? It just makes the most sense to me, that's all. At the very least I think it's a possibility worth investigating, unless we can come up with a buh-better line of enquiry."
He pores over the documents, holding it up to the light. "How odd. It doesn't say why they gave up their claim. I really think we need to find someone who knows more about Montdidier history, and about New Elennan nobility in general. Perhaps we'd find someone in Plateau City?"
Bendis starts when the guard suggests the assassins may return under cover of darkness. "Whu-what do you think, Rosario? Sh-should we leave? We need to kuh-keep Zita safe, don't we?"
Zita (subbed by Carl) Thursday February 28th, 2008 10:56:10 AM
Though she puts on a brave face for the guard, Zita remains in a state of shock. She looks to Rosario to make a decision for the group. He is after all, her Protector, and she trusts him to make the right choice.
Not Working Properly [DM Jerry] Thursday February 28th, 2008 11:58:44 AM
The guard nods in the affirmative. "We are abandoning the Fort and the Castle for now. Hopefully help from the capital will come soon.
"The smaller the groups, the more of us stand a chance of survival. However, my gut feeling is that your group should stay together. You were put together by the Duke. So I think she intended for you to stay together."
As the soldier says the word "together" Zita has another episode. The ring and earring are trying to tell her something. But she is getting two messages at once, one from the earring and one from the ring and it just comes across as a whirlwind of nonsense. All she gets is that something is not right about the ring and earring. They are not working properly for some reason.
Her headache is back.
Zita (subbed by Carl) Thursday February 28th, 2008 12:22:15 PM
"Gods above!" Zita groans as her senses are assaulted by a barrage of random imagery. She falls to her knees, clutching her head. "Something's wrong, it's as if the ring and the earring are not supposed to be together... Oh, my head!"
Bendis Thursday February 28th, 2008 12:29:11 PM
"Oh! Oh! I forgot to tell you Zita!" cries the dwarf. He lowers his voice apologetically as he sees Zita wince.
"In all the portraits we found, the duke wore the ring, but the Protector wore the earring. Perhaps Rosario should be wearing it?"
Zita (subbed by Carl) (illegal second post) Thursday February 28th, 2008 12:32:30 PM
Zita fights back the residual nausea and disorientation caused by the superimposed messages.
"It's worth a try if it'll stop this" she grunts through gritted teeth. She tugs at the earring, attempting to remove it, although she remembers it would not come loose before.
"Rosario, you're my Protector, so you should probably wear this."
Julien Thursday February 28th, 2008 1:44:08 PM
Julien rejoins the others after he and Gigi's fruitless search, right when Bendis is explaining the thing about the Mayor again.
"Well, I didn't find anything to link anything to Aisildur in the office. Of course there's the winery's place to go over yet. Whether that will turn up anything I'm not sure." He shrugs. "Gigi, did you find anything?"
The connection with the mayor has him troubled. Only because it really lays down what they might be up against. Insurmountable odds.
He's a bit annoyed about the guards just waltzing off and leaving them to their own devices, also. What were guards for, after all?
Zita's headache distracts him and stops him from glowering. "This is one puzzle we'd better solve pretty quick," he says, " before Zita's poor head explodes. Rosario? Where are we headed?""
Rosario Thursday February 28th, 2008 1:51:30 PM
"We leave." he states as answer thier next move. He looks at the group assembled about and then continues, "Word was quickly made to our enemies that we went to the other brewery and that indicates a traitor within my familiy." Looking at the guard and any others not within the close group Rosario states flattly and without room for negotiation, "Leave us, stay safe."
When the others are gone, he turns his attention to Zita and the rest. "Betheas, Julien and Picci. Get to the armorey and get us a descent supply of missile fire weapons and ammunition and meet us at teh back kitchen door." Holding a spread out hand, "5 Minutes."
"The rest of us will hit the kitchen and put together supplies of food and water best we can."
Upon Zita's episode and Bendis's revelation, Rosario nods. Rosario steps close to Zita and tries to take off the earring himself. perhaps it required permission of the Ducal Protector. If successful, while heading to the Kitchen, he will ram it through his left earlobe and secure it.
In the Kitchen, Roasrio begins essentially a ransack search for salted meat, breads and cheese. "Zita, find some packs or sacks in the pantry."
GiGi Thursday February 28th, 2008 9:39:30 PM
As Rosario begins issuing orders Gigi waits until he is done and asks a quick question.
"Rosario, do you think I should go the chapel and priest dormatories and see if I can find anything that might help with the healing of any wounds, or maybe some holy water, things like that?"
But Where? [DM Jerry] Friday February 29th, 2008 2:54:53 PM
When Rosario puts on the earring, he gets a stab of pain in his head to match the earring. A mild headache follows as the ring begins to attune to him. A flutter of images passes to him very quickly. Geographic. A place. But too fast to see.
[Gather Information check of DC 12 to slow the images down.]
Ziti's headache subsides. She now can sort through some information stored in the ring. It is difficult at first. She can sense the presence of Elisabeth in the ring as well as her father. Talking to those people is not possible, but the ring does hold information.
Ziti can pass any information she learns from the ring and she realizes that the earring and ring can be removed when she wants or tasked to NOT be removed if she wants. In that mode, the only way to remove it would be to cut off the finger or cut off the ear itself. She also thinks that she may later be able to store information in the ring, once she becomes more attuned to the ring.
[Ziti, please make a gather information check DC12 to learn even more.]
Rosario and those who go with her are able to gather jerky, known in the castle as "fieldjerky" and other unspoilable foodstuffs to last for three weeks.
Those in the Roseroom notice that the sun has set and only twilight remains. It is time to go, but where?
Julien Saturday March 1st, 2008 2:10:09 PM
Julien gives Rosario the thumbs up and heads off quickly toward the armory with Betheas and Picci. Missile weapons? He looks at his companions. "Light stuff. Arrows and anything we can throw, right?"
Picci Sunday March 2nd, 2008 12:26:15 AM
"Yes, Julien." Picci agrees. "I know that I, myself, can't manage anything more complicated than a crossbow, although I feel a LOT more comfortable with a sling and stones or bullets."
Zita (subbed by Carl) d20+2=5 Sunday March 2nd, 2008 5:45:28 AM
Zita takes a deep breath as the effects of the ring/ earring combination subside. She is still too disoriented to fully appreciate what the ring can do (Gather Info 5). Time to worry about the mystery of the ring later. Right now they need to get out of here.
She grabs sacks as instructed, and nods to GiGi. "Good idea, I've a feeling we're going to need all the help we can get.
Bendis Sunday March 2nd, 2008 5:48:55 AM
The portly dwarf mills about looking flustered and being rather ineffectual. "Suh-so where are we going? Where's going to be safe? Rosario, do you know anywhere nearby?"
Rosario d20=14 Sunday March 2nd, 2008 12:06:02 PM
Gather Info Check 14 Rosairo slows the images down as they flood into his mind. There was something here in all this. Zita, all of them would be looking his direction for answers. The fact that he thought they would all be served better by looking somewhere else right now didn't matter. All he wanted to do was destroy someting, someone anything and or anyone. Anger, rage really, and hatred boiling just below the surface. Barely kept in check his his sense of honor and loyalty, but it was there. Trying desperately to escape and somewhere back in his mind the call of the warrior screamed the danger of letting it do so. Destruction, fire, death, it would consume him and all he held dear.
Rosario loads a pack and shrugs at the questions. "Nice to know you all think I know what I'm doing." Rosario closes the pack he just filled and calls out, "We're gone!" and exits the manor house at a jog. He puts his direction north out the gate as near as he can figure it.
About 2 minutes later he stops and turns to Betheas and Bendis. "We need to keep going and you two have to be our eyes. I would like to swing a wide arc and head east. No particular reason for east other than everyone at the castle saw us go north. If anyone has a reason to head somewhere in particular. As long as it is not north we can."
Bendis (I know I shouldn't, but I can't resist...) Sunday March 2nd, 2008 3:34:59 PM
Bendis blinks up shortsightedly at Rosario from behind his thick spectacles.
"Um, if I'm going to be our eyes then we really are in trouble!"
And the Password is? [DM Jerry] Monday March 3rd, 2008 3:46:39 PM
Julien grabs 3 quivers of arrows and a handful of bows. 50 arrows in each quiver. Then he's running to catch the others which he easily does. There is no easily found stones or bullets to be had.
---------
Ziti is really having a time with the information in the ring. The whirling of images distracts her greatly and she weaves and trips over things as the party runs away at a trot. Her headache is worse too. She knows enough to realize that until she conquers the ring, the headache will not subside.
[Penalty for failure, Ziti: Now you need a DC7 wisdom or intelligence check to cast successfully. Combat is done with a -1 to all rolls due to a lack of concentration for one hour. You may try again to conquer the ring, but if you fail, the penalty is applied again. Or you may wait an hour until the headache subsides and try again.]
Rosario seems a natural at conquering the earring. As the images slow, he realizes that much of the surface level of the ring hides an inner level, which he triggers by discovering this.
The face of Adelina appears in his mind and she asks in a serious voice, "To obtain access, Protector, you must answer this question: Which is holiest? The color blue or purple?"
[You may guess the answer, or make any relavent check at DC15 such as Gather Information or a relavent Knowledge Check. You may also consult the group and they may make checks to see if they know the answer.]
The party heads out north and then turns east as per Rosario's instructions. This leads you into the vineyards as night falls.
--------------- [Rosario, 200xp for your decisiveness during a crucial time.]
Picci Tuesday March 4th, 2008 12:41:10 AM
Picci isn't too concerned about the lack of bullets in the armory--as long as she keeps her eyes peeled for them, she should be able to collect likely rocks to use in her trusty sling.
Julien Tuesday March 4th, 2008 1:23:18 AM
"Picci, hurry it up," says Julien, grabbing the bows and quivers.
He'll wait till all three of them are out before rejoining the others.
Bendis d20+2=8 d20+2=6 Tuesday March 4th, 2008 5:33:14 AM
The rotund dwarf is soon gasping for breath and he stumbles along out wide of Rosario and the others. He really isn't cut out for this. His back aches, his feet hurt...
He glances down and groans. By the whiskers of Kurvi-Tacsh! He's still wearing his slippers! They'll be absolutely ruined!
Shaff pokes his muzzle out of one of Bendis' many pockets, entirely unimpressed at all this jigging about. Something must be done about this. He scuttles over Bendis' belly, pops inside his spell component pouch and leaves his master a little present to register his disaproval. His business done he scoots back into his own pocket, glowing with the sense of a job well done.
Bendis, wheezing and panting, remains entirely oblivious to the antics of his weasel. He's too busy hunting for enemies in the night and trying to remain upright. With his poor eyesight he doesn't see much of anything, and frankly he can't hear a thing above the sound of his laboured breathing and pounding heart (Spot 8, Listen 6).
Zita (subbed by Carl) d20+2=22 Tuesday March 4th, 2008 5:49:36 AM
Zita stumbles along, having real difficulty focusing. Everything around her seems hyper-real and strange, and her head is pounding. The real Wold is superimposed with constantly swirling images from the ring, and the combined effect leaves her disoriented and nauseous.
She grits her teeth: this cannot continue. They are at risk out here, and she's no use anyone in this state. At the risk of making things even worse she calls quietly to the others to wait a moment. She kneels and desperately battles to make sense of the chaos in her head. This cannot go on! She won't let it! She is the ring's mistress, not the other way around! All her willpower is focused on unlocking the secret of the ring.
She stands, her head suddenly clear, her headache and nausea gone. "Got it!" she whispers with a smile. "OK, let's go!"
Rosario d20+1=16 d20+1=10 Tuesday March 4th, 2008 8:51:04 AM
His mind reels momentarily, but then Adelina appears and the question is posed. instinctively he wants to answer, but holds back. Too much is riding on cracking the mysteries that keep expounding upon themselves all about him. Namely the life if his sister, the others and himself. He repeats the question over and over as they continue moving well into the darker hours of night. He would want to repeat it precisely to the others. Picci and Bendis would hopefully have the answer immediately and more so hopefully those answers would match.
Bendis was having issues, but other than dropping back to offer verbal encouragement, he had no idea what to do. Shouting at him would certainly not help. It never helped him when Master Pello did that when he first started his 5 mile runs. Then Zita calls for a stop. Rosario is about to pull her back up when he catches the look of pain on her face. The ring it must be having the same type of effect, but stronger on her as the earring is having on him. Rosario kneels and lifts her chin to look at her face as she stands. He says nothing aloud, but pours all of his love and concern for his little sister through that look to her. A look he had never dreamed possible to give her until recently. She had been the spoiled little sister in his eyes. Whether true or not, that had been his adolescent mind's reality of the situation. Now, all of that was forgotten. She was his little sister and there was no ends he would not go to to keep her safe.
Zita was good and so they pushed on a bit more. Rosario does not push too much further though. Most all of them needed a rest. The middle of the vineyards was as good as any place they might reach by pushing on. Rosario drops his pack and holds a finger to his lips with a quiet 'sshhhh' He keeps his voice in a whisper.
"We need rest and we need to be quiet. I managed to slow the images the earring sent and Adelina appeared quiet clearly and asked me, 'What is a more holy color, Blue or Purple?' I have an instinct but I would like to hear from the rest of you. Looking to Picci, Julien and Bendis, "Especially from you guys."
"We also need a watch order, Betheas I would ask you to take second watch with Zita. I will take the first with Picci. Spell casters rest." [Spot 16, Listen 10]
GiGi d20+3=19 d20+2=16 d20=15 Tuesday March 4th, 2008 5:24:02 PM
Having made a quick search of the temple and rooms, Gigi rushes back to join the others and head out, again bringing up the rearguard thiry or so feet behind the others, as he occasionally stops to hoping to hear if anyone or thing is following them before they are on top of them Listen DC 19.
As he goes his mind is racing as he runs through the last two days and how his two cousins were now the head of the house and protector and that his grandmother and aunt were both dead along with possibly the rest of his family.
Concern crosses his brow as he sees both Rosario and Zita focused on whatever the rings were doing to them.
When they finally stop for a break and Rosario asks about the holiest color, Gigi's mind shoots straight back to his lessons from both his father and the priests about bottle making and wines Knowledge Religion DC 16, Knowledge History DC 15, and racks his brain for what he is pretty sure is there.
"Rosario, Zita the most religious of the wines if I recall correctly is the Tauran Blue Wine."
Picci Tuesday March 4th, 2008 10:05:18 PM
Picci joins with the others and nods agreement with Gigi's answer to the riddle.
"He's right about the wine." she says confidently, "Tauren Blue Wine is the base component for their potions, besides being illegal to make or possess within their Isles unless you are given special permission."
Rosario (2nd) Wednesday March 5th, 2008 8:39:40 AM
Nodding, "I agree. My thought process was that purple is normally associated to royalty and so blue must be the answer." Concentrating on the Earring, Rosario answers, "Blue is the holier of two."
Julien Wednesday March 5th, 2008 11:18:57 AM
Julien rejoins the others, carrying a load of bows and quivers full of arrows. He's in agreement with Picci and Gigi about the color, and horribly intrigued at what will happen to Rosario if he gets it wrong. Not that he'll say anything. This is not the time for fooling around, and would never wish any ill of his friend anyway. It's the mechanics of the thing that interest him.
Betheas Wednesday March 5th, 2008 12:00:46 PM
First off, Betheas lends whatever aid he can to Julien. The elf shares the burden of arrows and bows.
Betheas nods when Rosario requests that he share a watch with Zita. Surely it must mean that the young master trusts him.
When Rosario raises the question of the riddle, the elf looks back and forth between brother and sister. "Blood. Blood is the holiest. Blue... as in blood... bloodline. The actual position of authority, purple, is of less consequence."
Not My Daughter! [DM Jerry] Wednesday March 5th, 2008 3:37:33 PM
The group finds one of the storage huts to spend the night in.
The needed password is discussed, dear readers, and our heroes ponder the answer. Is it blue? Is it purple? Why that question?
Then Ziti sees the same question as the pictures slow for him and he sees the hidden spot in his ring. Though he sees Elisabetta instead of her grandmother asking the question.
Being better attuned, she gets an additional sentence. "This is important daughter." Mom sighs in the ring, then her face hardens. "If you answer incorrectly, you are NOT my daughter and will die for impersonating her!"
----------
[Sorry bout yesterday. I do better.]
Bendis d20+7=10 d20+4=11 Wednesday March 5th, 2008 4:43:26 PM
Finally getting his breath back Bendis looks around blankly. Blue or purple? Back home neither had been particularly significant. Reds, oranges and yellows, the colours of heat and earthly might were the most holy colours. He ponders that he really has an awful lot to learn about the Wold outside of his dwarven home (Knowledge Arcana 10, Knowledge Local 11).
"Um, suh-sorry folks, I'm really not sure."
Zita (subbed by Carl) d20+15=23 d20+15=22 Wednesday March 5th, 2008 5:02:58 PM
The look that Rosario gives Zita takes her totally by surprise, completely off guard. It's so... genuine. So real. It almost seems like the first really true moment to pass between them, as if everything before had just been some sort of dream of childhood. She meets his gaze and returns it, gratitude and love in her eyes. Something in their relationship has changed forever, and for the first time she truly understands the lengths he will go to keep her safe. He truly is her Protector.
"We're not beaten yet, Rosario!" she whispers, and for what seems like the first time since this nightmare began, Zita smiles.
Then her smile freezes at her mother materialises in her mind's eye. "Oh, mom..." she gasps. Her grief wells once more, but she is forced to push it away, to focus on what her mother is telling her. This is important.
She looks at the others, and her gaze is steady. "You're right, I'm sure it's blue. We've studied this with tutors before, this is about wine, the sorts of wine we bottle here. On the Taur Isles, the purple wine is sometimes used by wizards for making potions, but the blue is sacred; only the priests can use that in their ceremonies." (Knowledge History 23, Knowledge Local 22)
She focuses on the ring. "The answer is blue."
Picci Wednesday March 5th, 2008 6:04:39 PM
The petite acolyte for the gods of the Wold offers up a quick prayer that her advice to the new Duke and her Protector does not result in their horrible deaths.
GiGi Wednesday March 5th, 2008 8:48:50 PM
Gigi is not sure he is happy or not that most of the others agreed with him as to the answer as it limits the options from which to choose. trying to make himself useful, He moves a bit away from the main group in order to provide a hidden sentry for the group.
Rosario - Dan K OoC Thursday March 6th, 2008 11:25:39 AM
I am terribly confused Then Ziti sees the same question as the pictures slow for him and he sees the hidden spot in his ring. Though he sees Elisabetta instead of her grandmother asking the question.
Zita or Rosario. I am guessing Zita and all pronouns should become feminine.
Rosario answered Blue
Carl: LOL! Jerry has been merrily calling Zita both a he and Ziti since the first posts of the game! I emailed you about it yesterday Jerry. Zita's a she, and ends in A!
My reading was that Zita got the same message as Rosario got, plus a bit from her mom. That's what I responded to in my post, please let me know if I've read it wrong, Jerry.
--------
Jerry: Thanks Carla! ::joke::
Holy Water [DM Jerry] Thursday March 6th, 2008 12:55:37 PM
ZitA is answered by the ducal signet ring in Elisabeth's voice. "Yes, dearheart, the answer is indeed blue. As you know, the family secret to our Blue Wine, made better than any in the Lands of Taur, contains 3 drops of actual holy water per barrel.
Now where is your protector? Have you chosen the one to wear the earring? He must also give the answer.
Rosario Thursday March 6th, 2008 4:37:09 PM
The young man blows a stray hair from his forehead and rubs his eyes. Great Pantheon was he tired. Ragged almost, but also there was a certain level of exhuberance. Deep within, though the circumstances sent his spirit to ashes, he was excited beyond measure. his life would be that of the adventures of old with excitement and peril at every turn. And in the dark corners of his mind and soul, he was happy. Focusing upon the Earring, Rosario answers with Blue.
Julien Thursday March 6th, 2008 10:00:55 PM
Julien breathes a sigh of relief and winks at Rosario. It was turning out to be very interesting how the ring and earring worked together.
Standing, watching, he's trying not to focus too much on 'what happens next'. It was a great, big, dangerous unknown, with assassins about to leap out at any minute. It was scary and irritating, all at the same time, and the fact that it was disrupting his studies just added to the annoyance.
GiGi Thursday March 6th, 2008 10:10:09 PM
Breathing a sign of relief as it turns out that the answer he suggested was the correct one, the scarred cleric begins watching Zita and Rosario closely.
(OOC: BTW Jerry, did GiGi's trip to the temple turn up anything?)
Bendis Friday March 7th, 2008 6:33:36 AM
Bendis is intrigued by all the magical activity taking place within the ring and earring.
"You're seeing your mother, Zita? She's talking to you? And you see Nona, Rosario? Fascinating, I wonder how they're doing it. These really are the most intriguing items. It would be wuh-wonderful to study them..."
Bendis, who had been ready to fall asleep there and then, sits up, keen to see what these powerful magical items do next. His academic interest is well and truly piqued.
Zita (subbed by Carl) Friday March 7th, 2008 6:48:39 AM
"Shush, Bendis" Zita says, flapping her hands at him. I'm trying to concentrate. And they're not for studying, OK?"
Her heart is in her mouth as she waits for Rosario's ring to answer him. What secrets will be revealed? What information is so important that her mother and Nona went to such extraordinary lengths to communicate it?
"Anything, Rosario?" she asks, nudging him.
One Small Step [DM Jerry] Friday March 7th, 2008 11:48:10 AM
When Rosario answers "blue," the ring and earring instruct both Protector and Duke to touch the earring to the ring. This is easily done with Zita touching the earring with her ring.
The rings light up instantly with a golden light that pulses and then focuses making a 3-dimensional projection on front of them both. In this globe, of life, action is taking place.
The "feet" of a young person is seen, stepping off a "lift" onto a trail. It is almost as if this is both truth and metaphor. The feeling is that this first step is not just a step, but a decision and life-changing event. The foot steps carefully leaving a print.
The recorded projection repeats three times and then stops. The glowing fades and the secret area of the ring has now been revealed. It remains and the short sequence can be called forth at will.
[Spot checks please to determine more information from the projection.]
-----------
Betheas Friday March 7th, 2008 4:57:28 PM
Betheas winces a tad when Zita pushes Bendis' curiousity at bay. He knew the dwarf would take it hard.
He then watches, as the images are played. "What's this?" He eyes both Rosario and Zita with a touch of scorn. Was this witchery? If things could get any stranger?
Julien ... help me obi wan kenobi, you're my only hope, help me obi wan kenobi, you're my only hope, help me obi wan... d20+1=21 Saturday March 8th, 2008 1:08:21 AM
"Oh," says Julien as the projection appears, and a grin appears on his face. Now that was impressive. He peers closely at the moving image, then winks at Betheas -
"Don't burn them at the stake yet, Betheas, this is getting interesting."
Spot DC 21 (Oh yeah!)
Gigi Saturday March 8th, 2008 8:06:09 AM
Not able to watch these procedings as he has made himself a sentry, Gigi begins going through his teachings as a method of keeping himself awake and aware.
Bendis d20+2=4 d20+7=16 d20+7=22 Sunday March 9th, 2008 6:25:13 AM
Bendis' face falls as Zita shushes him, but lights up again as the manifestation appears in front of him.
"Ooooh! Another power! These items are wonderful!"
He pushes his glasses up his nose and peers carefully at the projection, scrutinising it from every angle. He is far more interested in the actual magic of the thing that the content, however.
"That's really rather nice. Stored imagery then replayed, as some form of three dimensional manifestation; illusionary perhaps? Julien, do you have a Detect Magic spell prepared? I'd love to find out what's going on here." he waves his hand through the image, trying to determine how the magic is working (Spot 4, Knowledge: Arcana 16, Spellcraft 22).
Zita (subbed by Carl) d20+1=2 Sunday March 9th, 2008 6:34:34 AM
Zita bites back her frustration at Bendis' seeming inability to focus on the important thing here. Who cares how it works? What matters is what it is saying. Still, she holds her tongue. She knows how sensitive the dwarf can be to critisism. Although far older than the rest of them, in some ways Bendis is the least mature.
To the group in general she says;
"What do you think the images mean? Feet stepping off a lift and onto a trail; could that represent us? Maybe the lift is one of the Plateau lifts. I can't think of any other lifts around here, can you? Is it telling us we need to leave the plateaus, do you think? Or go to another plateau? It repeats three times; perhaps that represents the three plateaus. But what could the print represent? Oh mother, why did you always have to be so enigmatic?"
Zita is so engrossed in trying to interpret the images she doesn't really focus on the detail of the content either (Spot 2).
Picci d20+4=21 Monday March 10th, 2008 3:30:30 AM
Picci tilts her raven-maned head as she contemplates the projection, idly thinking that she'd really love a couple of oversize cinnamon buns...hmmm...now that was an odd thought.
(OOC:rolled a 21 for the Spot check; LOL for the "obi wan" reference.)
The Lift: Our Only Hope [DM Jerry] Monday March 10th, 2008 11:44:43 AM
As Betheas doubts, Julian looks closely at the projection and determines an important fact:
The Lift is indeed the Fort Silence Lift up to the 3rd plateau as he could see Montididier Castle far below.
Picci notices that the young person wears "wine stomping" boots, showing that the person is in the wine making industry.
She also remembers one of the guards saying that the Fort Silence Lift was damaged during the attack, but doesn't remember hearing how badly it was hurt.
Bendis is observant as well, seeing that the Castle below is about 3000' down. He's gone up and down the lift enough times in his life to make a good estimate concerning how high he is.
He also observes from the position of the castle in the distance that the trail is leading off from the lift to the south.
---------
Yep, I pulled stuff from all over the place for this module. ;) I knew you'd recognize the reference. I could have disguise it as something else, but decided it was kinda cool to leave the obvious reference alone this time.
Picci Monday March 10th, 2008 12:10:45 PM
The young acolyte sniffs as she mulls over the image.
"Well...factually..." Picci tells the others, "...that showed somebody who was definitely connected to the wine-making industry getting off the Fort Silence lift after it had finished ascending. Metaphorically speaking--we could debate that angle for hours..."
Betheas Monday March 10th, 2008 2:09:55 PM
"Well, if anyone knows that lift, it's me. I've guarded that lift for the last two years. If it was damaged, then the lift attendants up above would have immediately been on it. In a lot of ways the lift itself is more important than..." stopping short. "Well, if we needed a direction, this would appear to serve that purpose. However, it's not in the direction of Aisuldar," the ranger points off to the west. "Looks like we retreat to the big city."
Julien Monday March 10th, 2008 5:29:50 PM
After sharing his observations, Julien listens to what the others are saying. "Well," he says, "I'd rather go up toward Plateau City that head east toward Aisildur, I must admit."
As an aside to Bendis he tells his friend he doesn't want to throw a load of spells at it, just in case they tamper with the message. "I'd like a closer look at it too, but it's not really ours to play with," he says.
He then goes at tells Gigi what's going on.
Bendis Monday March 10th, 2008 7:04:54 PM
"Oh yes, suh-sorry" Bendis mumbles, realising he's obsessing again. "Um, I'm all for going to Plateau City rather than marching through any more fields. My blisters have blisters."
He rubs his feet ruefully. "I'd still like to find a specialist in local geneaology, that may give us some clues. I'm shuh-sure we'd find someone in Plateau City."
Zita (subbed by Carl) Monday March 10th, 2008 7:11:10 PM
Zita nods thoughtfully. "You're right, it does seem to be suggesting we head to Plateau City Betheas. It's a big place, we should be able to lose ourselves there. What do you think Rosario?"
She sits back, thinking. "Hmm, I wonder who that foot belongs to. Does it represent us? Or an ally we have to find? Or perhaps it's someone from Fort Silence, maybe the spy you suggested had betrayed us, Bendis? If we do decide to follow I wonder if we'll find that footprint where the rings showed it?"
GiGi Monday March 10th, 2008 8:46:01 PM
Informed by Julien as to the vision and what people think it means, GiGi nods and ponders a question or two out loud. Did the foot have any markings, or scars? What size was it? was it an adult's foot or a child's?
Lift Me Up [DM Jerry] Tuesday March 11th, 2008 8:57:33 AM
It then occurs to everyone that the height of the lift is 5000' feet, not 3000'. So the path is 3/5th of the way up the cliff of the 3rd plateau, not all the way up. (sorry thought everyone knew that. Didn't occur to me that you wouldn't.)
Several of the group observe that the strength of the leg on the boot looks to be male.
The group is camped about an hour's walk. from Fort Silence and the lift. The night is still young.
Betheas Tuesday March 11th, 2008 12:30:45 PM
Betheas, standing up, stretches and assists the others to gather their things. "I know a short cut that can get us to the lift faster."
"Odd though, I've lived in the cliff wall. I never knew their would be pathways halfway up the cliff face. I don't remember the lift ever stopping, so I guess we have to time our exit."
"Sounds very secretive." Remembering the view from the magic item's transmission, "Just imagine, someone up there has been watching over our lives everyday, for who knows how long."
Picci Tuesday March 11th, 2008 1:52:28 PM
Picci gives Bendis a fond smile.
"I have just the thing for your feet, Bendis," she tells him, rummaging through her pack, "An herbal oil infusion that should help ease the discomfort...and it smells better than that liniment you've been using of late." The petite human's nose wrinkles in remembrance, but she pulls out of her backpack a healer's kit. From the kit, Picci removes a flask of oil and a couple of rolls of bandages.
"You'll need to take off your shoes and stockings," the able healer tells her friend, "Then I'll massage the oil into the skin and wrap your feet. That should make you more comfortable." Picci's obsidian eyes look at the dwarf expectantly.
Bendis Tuesday March 11th, 2008 4:34:16 PM
Bendis looks rather disappointed when he realises the message is not directing them to the comfort of the city. He has little time to dwell on this. Picci asks him to take off his shoes and stocking so she can massage his feet. Flushing pink to the tips of his ears Bendis gazes down at his toes, completely flustered.
"Oh, um, but, um, that is, thank you Picci, but, well, I've buh-been running, and muh-marching all day, and wuh-well, my feet do get awfully suh-smelly. I couldn't, really, your lovely clean hands..." he goes even pinker. "Um, I mean... muh-maybe I should wash them first. Um, my fuh-feet I mean, not your hands..."
He tails off, wishing the ground would swallow him. He cannot meet the petite cleric's gaze.
Zita (subbed by Carl) Tuesday March 11th, 2008 4:51:08 PM
Zita replays the scene again and nods. "Amazing. You're right Betheas, from that spot someone would have a perfect view of home. And I for one am pretty curious to find out who that someone is. Betheas, if you know a shortcut then take us to it. It's early, and I'd rather be doing something than sitting in this shed all evening."
She glances over at Picci and Bendis. "You two will have to play footsie another time" she says, instantly regretting it. Poor Bendis looks like he's about to implode with embarrassment. Well, never mind, the dwarf is going to need to toughen up.
Then another thought occurs. "Oh, but Bendis and Julien haven't had a chance to meditate on their spells, have they? If we're heading into danger, perhaps we should wait, and be better prepared."
Rosario (subbed by Kent) Tuesday March 11th, 2008 9:39:23 PM
Ok then. Bendis, Julien, how much time do you need? If it isn't too long, then we should wait, but put out some more sentries with Gigi. If too long a time or you don't need any, then I think we should be off to find Betheas' short cut.
GiGi Tuesday March 11th, 2008 9:41:14 PM
Gigi ponders the questions about the vision a bit more and then sends Julien back to the others whispering to him.
"Just make sure someone let's me know when we head out for the lift."
Julien Wednesday March 12th, 2008 1:43:24 AM
Julien leans against the wall of the shed and folds his arms. "Well, prep time - about an hour, but the problem is, spells tend to mess with your head," he makes a twirly gesture next to his left ear. "We're supposed to have a good night's sleep before prep. Otherwise we can mix things up, and the next thing you know - magic missile becomes a turn-your-best-archer-into-a-toad spell." He looks apologetic.
Fire and Smoke [DM Jerry] Wednesday March 12th, 2008 12:51:33 PM
Middle of the night, an explosion is heard from the west--the direction of home.
It echoes from the cliffs the sound returning to you twice.
During the late night, someone was spotted by your watch sneaking through the fields, but it turned out to be some of the Montdidier field workers moving away form the fort and castle. They did not approach the shed you are camping in.
About 2 hours before dawn, the casters state that they are ready to move. You are about an hour east of Fort Silence where the lift is.
The group prepares and heads out covering the territory quickly to reach the lift before dawn.
However, as you get within sight of the fort and castle, you can see fire and smoke. Someone has set fire to everything that is not stone!
Fort's Gate has collapsed with a huge pile of stone. That leaves climbing over the pile of rubble some 40' high, or heading around to north or south side of the fort and scaling the wall.
[Knowledge: Local Check DC13 to know of the concealed door on the north wall of the fort near the cliff.]
Picci Wednesday March 12th, 2008 12:56:59 PM
Before she can address Bendis, Zita speaks up. Then Rosario and Julien discuss how long the group needs to rest. Picci turns back to the bashful dwarf.
"I'm a healer, Bendis." she tells her friend with a smile. "And your feet are hurting you. I'm used to body parts being in less-than-perfect condition...and I am not going to have any friend of mine in pain if I can possibly help it. Now...since we're going to have some time for you and Julien to recover spells, then you might as well let me tend your feet, because I'm not budging from this spot until your hurts have been tended to." The dark-haired teenager looks rather set in her course and determined to make Bendis' feet better.
Bendis d20+4=10 Wednesday March 12th, 2008 6:18:09 PM
Under a certain amount of duress Bendis acquiesces to Picci's instructions. Her confident and strong hands soon have him relaxed, and before he knows it he is snoring peacefully.
The explosions in the distance cause him to roll over in the night and mutter "Got to go a-smiting!", but he doesn't wake.
He is up early, trying to empty his mind of all worries and concerns as he prepares his spells for the day, and then they are off again. This time Bendis manages to remember to put on his boots, and to stow what remains of his beloved carpet slippers in his pack.
Bendis gazes in horror at the destruction of Fort's Gate. "Goodness, this is unbelievable! Who's doing all this? How are we going to get past this?" (Knowledge Local 10)
Memorized spells Level 1 Charm Person Sleep True Strike
Level 0 Daze Touch of Fatigue Message Read Magic
Zita (subbed by Carl) d20+5=17 Wednesday March 12th, 2008 6:24:19 PM
Zita is eager to be off, but is horrified to learn the source of the midnight explosion when they approach the gate.
"How is this possible? They attack us with impunity! What's happened to the City Guard? Don't we get any protection?"
She eyes the mound of rubble warily. "I'm not so sure we should climb that. It's probably unsafe, and it may well be watched. If we head to the north wall there's a hidden door in the wall. Whoever is after us may not know about it. From there we should be able to use Betheas' route to get up the cliff."
(Knowledge Local 17)
Julien d20+4=22 Thursday March 13th, 2008 1:30:25 AM
Knowledge Local 22
Julien is a light sleeper and hears the explosion, but he is single-mindedly back to sleep once more after determining that everyone is staying put. Whatever it was - they'd figure it out in the morning.
Waking early, he reads his spells with a practiced eye. Every time he does this, he can feel it getting easier, just a little, every day.
Then it's time to move, and hopefully discover what all the noise was about. He has a dark look on his face as he stands with the others, looking at the devastation.
As Zita suggests the door, he says - "We'll need to be careful. If we know about it, others might, too. There might be a trap waiting for us."
Rosario (subbed by Kent) d20+2=22 Thursday March 13th, 2008 7:06:19 AM
Rosario is on gaurd duty when the explosion goes off, causing him to turn toward the sound and speculate what new atrocity had just occurred. Seeing the stragglers moving through the feilds, but seeing that there is no immediate threat he lets the others rest and return to their slumber until his watch is over and he falls into a fitful sleep.
The next day as they come to the fort his mouth too drops open as he sees the results of the blast.
Thinking a moment in silence Rosario replies to Zita.
"Zita, I think that it is perhaps our family's compacency over our abundant good fortune over the past years that has perhaps allowed this to happen." I also think that it is time that someone find out that that complacency has ennded and that someone will pay for the last few nights doings."
"As for getting around this, if I remember correctly, Knowledge Local DC 22 I believe you are correct about there being a way around this mess through that secret door you mention. I was not however aware that you knew about it.
Picci d20+5=19 d20+6=22 Thursday March 13th, 2008 12:05:36 PM
Picci tends to her friend's feet, smiling when Bendis is actually relaxed enough to sleep. Unlike the dwarf, however, she doesn't sleep through the sound of the explosion, waking with a gasp and finding it impossible to really go back to sleep right away. She joins Rosario for a while before returning to her pallet, thoughtful about the whole situation.
When morning comes, the young cleric probes the immediate area around the group's shelter to find and harvest fresh herbs for use in hastily cooking up a palatable breakfast for the group. (OOC: Voluntary check results are 19 for using her skill as an Herbalist and 22 for her ability to Cook.)
"Does anybody else need any extra tending before I return my healer's kit to my backpack..?" Picci asks.
LOG ON