Setting Out Through the Grass (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 1st, 2008 12:34:26 AM
After their first night on the Sargrass, Yanosh and Olaf are glad to see the sunrise through the tops of the grass around them. Somehow, the brightenign day made the strange world of the Sargrass seem a little less ... unusual.
After the spells and other preparations, the Bloodpack get on the trail towards Rattledam. The day's trek is without incident, with no sign of any dangerous creatures or anything out of the ordinary. The sort of repetitive, constant task that could easily lead an unwary traveller into a momentary lapse that could lead to trouble. Still, all of the Bloodpack are experienced wilderness travellers and they keep their senses alert.
It is during a break, when the Bloodpack are passing around a waterskin when there is a brief cessation of the constant noise of insect and bird.
Spot and Listen rolls, please
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Tuesday April 1st, 2008 9:53:19 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of March 24 - March 30
Weekly Summary : Preparing to go out into the dangers players once more...
As time passes our friends enjoy their stay at OddHolme. However time comes for them to decide where to go next... Back to Rattledam and face the Council? Renegades out here in the plains? The first members of the pack explain to the Ice Veiners how things out here on the plains work... The changes from ice to grass will proove to be rather annoying for our youngest friends...
Then finally the group leaves the Dome. Goodbeys are shared and a warm place to return to will be prepared. What new perils will await the Bloodpack?!? Only our cruel DM knows...
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Tishe' d20+11=15 d20+11=15 d20+5=18 d20+5=18 Tuesday April 1st, 2008 12:53:04 PM
Experienced with the ebb and flow of Mother Wold within the Sargrass, Tishe' becomes immediately aware of the changeing sounds. She tries to pinpoint the location of the disturbances. (Spot: 15, Listen: 15)
Tacia quiets and assists her companion in locating the source of the no sound area. (Aid Another Spot: 18 +2, Listen: +2)
Yanosh d20+2=7 d20+1=10 Tuesday April 1st, 2008 3:39:50 PM
The Sargrass turning suddenly quiet is a relief to the Dwarven Cleric. The Ice vein had it noises yes, But it was also a quiet place. A lonely place. A place where one could commune with his God.
This place is just loud and roitious. Yanosh is glad for the rest from the noise. It does not dawn on Yanosh that something is amiss. Nor does he hear anything but the peaceful quiet.
Spot 7 Listen 10
Trellus d20+10=26 d20+10=22 Tuesday April 1st, 2008 3:55:15 PM
As soon as the noise stops, Trellus' head swivels around as he tries to pinpoint the cause. [Listen 26, Spot 22]
The cleric warily rises to his feet, meeting Grymash's eyes in a silent signal as he does.
"Get shuttlecocked, dudes," he calls out softly to the newbies. "Noise don't stop for no reason."
-------- Active Spells:
Endure Elements - 24 hours Magic Vestment - Extended (shield) - +2 AC Magic Vestment - Extended (armor) - +2 AC Status - Gry, Olaf, Flea
------ Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Olaf d20+4=12 d20+4=5 Tuesday April 1st, 2008 6:12:48 PM
Olaf, like Yanosh, seems to revel in the biting wind, and a dreamy smile steals upon his face on occasion. He barely notices anything amiss as they move through the strange land, though [spot 12, listen 5] and only stops when Trellus indicates something is up. He slowly retrieves his recurved bone shortbow, his hand drifting towards his neck, feeling for something which is not there.
Flea d20+10=17 d20+10=26 Tuesday April 1st, 2008 11:08:36 PM
Flea wipes the back of her hand across her mouth after taking her turn with the water skin. The sudden change on the plains causes her to lift a finger to her lips as she surveys the party.
Spot=17 Listen=26
It is hard for her to see over the tops of the tall grasses, but her sensitive gnome ears don't miss much.
"We far from Rattledam, ya' think?" she asks in a low, quiet voice.
Grymash, with double ax in hands, surveys all he sees and hears. Though his pointed ears alert him to something, and he turns to greet what that is. A simple flick of his head and the visor on his horned helm falls down over his grimacing face. A low guttural growl emanates from underneath.
Out of the Grass (DM JohnP) Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 12:16:42 AM
The Bloodpack stills momentarily, listening for whatever has caused the incessant background hum of insects and birds to stop. The background noise soon resumes although several members of the 'Pack are convinced that something is out there. Still, whatever it is, it doesn't seem to cause significant alarm for the natural inhabitants of the Sargrass.
The Bloodpack is soon convinced that something ... or someone .. is following them through the Sargrass. The more bloody-minded members are about to prepare for battle when a very short humanoid ... shorter than Flea ... steps from the grass into the trail left by the Bloodpack. The creature simply stands there, its big black eyes silently surveying the interlopers on the plains.
Trellus question Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 11:35:04 AM
Is it a manfri? Trellus would recognize one, and would have a different reaction than to an unknown.
Yanosh AC20 - HP76/76 Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 3:40:59 PM
With speed that belies his looks Yanosh has his War Axe in his hand. His stern ugly face is set for combat but he is not fully watching the newcomer. He keeps an eye on him but Yanosh scans the grass around him.
(OoC How tall id the grass? Yanosh is tall for a Dwarf 4'9". Can he see over the top of the grass?)
Olaf Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 4:29:36 PM
Olaf looks about for a place to hide, in case combat nears. His hand steals to a pebble in his pouch, upon which Deeper Darkness is still present, but he keeps it within the pouch for now.
Trellus d20+10=11 Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 4:38:29 PM
Trellus sighs in exasperation. Just how many dudes are walking around out here? he wonders.
The cleric steps forward to face the newcomer. "Well, what do you want?" he asks impatiently.
[Diplomacy check - Nat 1 - terrific]
Tishe' d20=14 Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 6:55:02 PM
(ooc: Tishe', Grymash, Flea, and Trellus would all recognize a manfri.)
Tishe' winces at Trellus' abrupt greeting. "We've got to have someone look at that sore tooth, Trellus", she chides gently, "the poor little thing may be lost, or a messenger for us..." Tishe' trails off hopefully to see if the little fella will favor them with some information. (Diplomacy: 14. Not usually Tishe's strong suit, but hey)
Flea d20+2=16 Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 7:57:45 PM
The gnome steps in front of Yanosh. "Put it away!" she hisses, making gestures with her hand towards the dwarven axe.
Staring into the visitor's dark eyes, she clasps a fist to her chest, the other hand covering the first. "Talki Fresal, Dondit Likki" she says the vow of the second circle, "The Land, My Life", and waits for a reaction.
Sense Motive=16
(OOC: Not sure, but is it Manfri?-Carla)
Vayine Wednesday April 2nd, 2008 8:43:35 PM
Vayine Grips his sword admiring the glittering blade that he has just aquired from the horde of the Worm creature, the others told him that a slight cut from the blade could cause massive internal damage due to the strong magics that it possess.
The drow waits silently as Flea tells them to hold their ground an be silent.
Grymash Thursday April 3rd, 2008 3:57:29 PM
(Yes, Grymash is quite familiar with manfri. Camped, eaten with, and fought beside them on several occasions. They even made his armor that he's wearing.)
Grymash lowers his double axe and his guard at the sight of the tiny figure. With his free hand, he lifts the visor back up on his helmet. He kneels down to one knee and holds out his huge palm in a friendly gesture of greeting. "Hello!" Agreeing with the rogues words, Grymash affirms, "Uhh yeah, whut Flea says."
Speaking with the Manfri (DM JohnP) Friday April 4th, 2008 12:40:14 AM
The newcomers grab for their weapons, uncertain of what this creature intends. The 'Pack members with longer standing, though, correctly identify the creature as a manfri and they move to prevent any rash actions.
The manfri watches intently, seeming to evaluate the actions of the Bloodpack when presented with an unknown. Once Flea and Grymash have spoken, the Manfri seems to study each of the 'Pack members in turn. The large, dark eyes are unnerving because they don't seem to blink rapidly enough for a mortal person.
The manfri responds by mirroring Grymash's gesture, extending one hand and opening it to show long fingers with knobby joints. A second hand joins the first, also open towards the Bloodpack. The manfri concludes by bringing both hands to its chest and uttering some quiet words as both eyes close. Those with acute ears may hear what is said.
Listen DC 10 - Highlight to display spoiler: {Dondit Likki, Galgun Malba}
The manfri looks up again and asks the Bloodpack a question.
"Where do you go? What was in the dome?"
Trellus d20+10=25 Friday April 4th, 2008 11:17:28 AM
[Listen 25]
The cleric files away "Galgun Malba". That sounded like a rote response to Flea's oath, and he'd really like to know what it means.
"We are going to Rattledam," he answers the manfri cautiously. "There was some kind of worm in the dome, making not-spiders and not-rapke. We destroyed them." Trellus is matter-of-fact about it, confident the pack took the correct action for the Land.
Tishe' d20+11=14 Friday April 4th, 2008 12:40:34 PM
Tishe' also hears the quiet response (Listen:14), and relaxes; the Manfri would know everything that is about in the 'grass and wouldn't stop to talk if it wasn't safe.
She is content to let Trellus talk and sits with Tacia, working on little tricks with her companion.
Yanosh d20+1=8 Friday April 4th, 2008 2:47:36 PM
Suprised at being scolded by Flea, Yanosh replaces his Axe. Unable to hear what is said he simply waits to see what will happen.
Vayine Saturday April 5th, 2008 10:23:49 AM
Vayine Bows deeply to the newcomer, a sign of respect and welcome and also makes a show of sheathing his blade.
The Manfri Speaks (DM JohnP) Sunday April 6th, 2008 12:03:59 AM
The manfri listens intently as Trellus speaks, its hands held close to its body. The creature continues to stand there even after the brief summary is concluded. Then, in halting speech, the creature speaks again.
"Do you think that this worm-thing was natural?"
After it speaks, the manfri acknowledges the gestures from the other members of the Bloodpack. Seeing that the 'Pack is peaceful, the manfri gestures and more sound is heard from the surrounding grass as more creatures approach the edge where they hover just at the point where they can be partially seen. The 'Pack has the impression that the noise is merely courtesy since the manfri could, if they chose, past quietly and nearly effortlessly through the grass. Once the entire group is close, the first manfri speaks again.
"To Rattledam you go. Do you return home? Or, do you go for other reason? What is your home?"
Flea d20+11=13 d20+3=18 Sunday April 6th, 2008 8:04:16 PM
Flea spares a moment for the newest pack-mates, Yanosh and Olaf. "The Manfri are native to the Sargrass. As far as anyone knows, they are the first people of the plains."
As the sounds come from the grasses, signifying others, she continues, "the Manfri have never done us wrong, and have in fact helped us out of trouble and fought beside us in times of war." The image of the fallen manfri pack with the blue marks on their cheeks* flashes before the gnome, and she continues, "they have given their lives to serve the natural order...the circle of life...on this land."
Listen=13
Flea, too, wonders..."The land,...what?" What could Galgun Malba mean?
Hands empty, and palm up, Flea takes a step towards the Manfri. With a quick glance at Trellus, she says, "we go to Rattledam, our first home, to see how things stand. It has been a long time since we have been..." the gnome pauses, "...and we do not know if we are welcomed."
Flea looks to Tishe' with an air of supplication, the druid could explain it better, however the rogue continues, "I can only testify to what I have seen, but I have seen a new strength in things natural. It would seem that there are some who wish to harness this new vigor and bend it to evil purposes. We learned of the emergence of a new power in nature while we were far from Rattledam and the Sargrass and have not taken the measure of its affect on our old home. The essence of the worm-thing seemed natural, but it had been changed. At its dying, it seemed...relieved...as if somehow it had been set free..."
Flea's brow furrows, but she continues, "the other dome, Oddholme, has been cleansed." Flea lowers her voice, almost pleading, "we would like to make it a safe place...and our home, too."
Diplomacy=18
*(Reference to some stuff that happened around 26 Nov. 2003-Carla)
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday April 7th, 2008 12:43:42 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of March 31 - April 6
Finding their way slowly through the grass the newcomers are given a crash course in survival on the plains. Olaf and Yanosh dream about how it felt to have a cold icy wind on their faces with the magnificent vast icy plains around them... the silence... the eternal icy cold... Out here on the plains there's only the noise of bugs... No way to look any further beyond the grass... And an unbearable heat... Bah! When suddenly all noise around them stops the group feels something's up and unsheathes their blades and axes... Untill suddenly a tiny figure steps from the grass... Manfri?
Flea, Trellus, Tische' and Grymash immediately identify the tiny Manfri and reassure the new ones of their friendly nature. Oaths are exchanged but a new riddle now races through their heads... Dondit Likki! Galgun Malba!
Dondit Likki! Galgun Malba! ?!?
What could this mean...
Tishe' d20=18 Monday April 7th, 2008 10:36:39 AM
The brown-haired conjurer/druid is being unusually aware of other people's small social cues today (Diplomacy:18, wow) and sees Flea's glance in her direction. She remains sitting tailor-fashion in the 'grass with one arm companionably on Tacia as her brown eyes sparkle.
"Brothers and sisters of the Sargrass", she begins in the manner of speaking she learned while living with the Manfri, "I greet you as a free person. I will not speak for my friends, but I can tell you what is in my heart and mind."
She pats the ground at her feet. "This is my home, the Sargrass Plains, and all who dwell within the Mother's rules are my friends. Like the Barons who seek to pervert the natural order of the animals in the Sargrass, the Worm was taking the natural and warping it for its own ends. Alas, we were not able to discover its reasons before it was destroyed, yet the Bloodpack has taken the grassdome for ourselves. I imagine," and Tishe' cocks her head towards her companions, "that OddHolme will be open to all who are friends with the Sargrass."
"As for my destination, I go to Rattledam, but not to settle nor to bow to the monk's will. I go to fulfill a promise. I will seek to make those who were once our masters into allies, and not enemies. Yet whatever the outcome in Rattledam, I will return to OddHolme and continue to protect the Sargrass and the people who live here."
Yanosh d20+2=14 d20+1=9 Monday April 7th, 2008 11:17:58 AM
Feeling compleatly out of place and not knowing what to say Yanosh quietly waits. Keeping an eye out for any sign of trouble (More like anything else coming up to them).
Blasted Bug! Yanosh thinks. How can anyone hear anything here?
Spot 14 Listen 9
Trellus Monday April 7th, 2008 3:16:23 PM
Trellus nods in agreement with Flea and Tishe, watching for the manfri's reaction.
A Request (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 8th, 2008 12:45:54 AM
The newcomers, Olaf and Yanosh, listen as the other members of the Bloodpack relate some of the history and past encounters with the manfri. Trellus remains watchful.
The manfri nods as Flea and Tishe' speak, looking back and forth between the two before gesturing towards the other manfri.
"I know of your efforts. They know of your efforts. The Manfri share what we know."
"This thing in the dome. Not of the Sargrass but from outside. It's creator thought the Sargrass empty, a place to hide and grow. There is more like that, coming here from outside."
"Some day, you will have to choose between the Sargrass and what is outside. Between Sargrass now, and Sargrass then. But not today."
"For now, can we travel with you?"
The Bloodpack get the impression that the Manfri are waiting expectantly for a response. If nothing else, the Manfri would probably speed them on their way.
Olaf Tuesday April 8th, 2008 8:14:23 AM
Olaf starts to get a glimmering of what might be going on, and mentions to the ever-quick Flea, "whad'ya think that the portal that brought Yanosh 'n me maybe goes other places, too? That'd be not so nice a surprise when we get back, eh?"
Trellus Tuesday April 8th, 2008 3:54:41 PM
Trellus blinks. The speech is actually less cryptic than usual for a manfri - or a monk -, but still leaves him pondering. He's pretty sure the pack has already made the choice between the Sargrass and what is outside. That 'Sargrass now, and Sargrass then' part bothers him, though.
The cleric shakes it off. More mysteries for later. For now - "Shady! We welcome you to travel with us."
He turns to the others. "These dudes can move through this stuff like it wasn't there. If they offer a hand, I'm telling ya, take it."
Yanosh Tuesday April 8th, 2008 3:56:39 PM
"Olaf is right," Yanosh speaks up at last. "If what brought us to the Dome brought the worm there then we may be in for a fight when we return. And what of the ones we left behind to care for the Dome? We should destroy the alter fist thing when we return." Worriedly Yanosh casts a backward glance in the direction of OddHolme.
Grymash Tuesday April 8th, 2008 7:22:38 PM
"Wow!" Grymash mutters to himself. He actually understood what the lil guy was saying. It was always so hard to understand their 'deep speech' before. Usually had to be explained to him. Sometimes even illustrated with little pictures or performed with puppets, or whatever. Grymash wonders ... am Gry gettin' more smarts? The idea puts a smile on his face. "Manfri aways welcomes ta walks wit da Bloodpack."
Flea Tuesday April 8th, 2008 7:23:22 PM
"Every time we ended up 'outside' was by accident," Flea tells Olaf. "There was always some kind of magical intervention by someone who was, like, saying they were going to do us a favour." The rogue rolls her eyes dramatically.
"I wouldn't worry about Oddholme, nor the drow folks we left back there. The 'Murdocks' can take care of themselves." Flea grins at her use of the half-orcs name for the dark elves.
"Sure you can come with us!" pipes up Flea to the Manfri, "if you can keep up!"
"To Rattledam!"
Tishe' Tuesday April 8th, 2008 8:19:44 PM
Tishe' attaches all her attention on what the Manfri says, and barely keeps her mouth under control until the expanded group begins to once again walk through the 'grass.
"You mentioned 'its creator'", she begin without preamble to her Manfri walker-friend. "Do you know of its creator and where this creator may be from? This may give us more clues as to what happened."
She thinks some more and after a while goes onto another thought. "Ebyron (ooc: During Dark Fey Rising) and the Oglian writings (ooc: during Legend of the Oglian) both mentioned a time when the Sargrass wasn't the Sargrass Plains. Do the Manfri have any legends that tell of that time?"
She listens eagerly...
Making Good Time (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 8th, 2008 11:45:29 PM
The manfri allow the Bloodpack to walk with them through the grass. And it is as Trellus stated, the small creatures are adept at moving through the grass and can easily guide someone following them. The Bloodpack is moving much more rapidly than before, so fast that Tishe' no longer needs to slow down.
The groups discusses the possible consequences of the portal that brought Yanosh and Olaf to join them since, as they rightly point out, it is a connection to the [i]Outside{/i]. The place where there is no grass and everyone is a beater trying to do their worst to the Bloodpack. Well, not everyone since their visit to the Ice Vein wasn't too, too bad. But still, there is the possibility that the worm creature entered the dome through the portal. Unfortunately, the manfri don't offer any practical advice to the Bloodpack on that matter.
Or, maybe, they do.
The manfri that has done all of the speaking approaches the Bloodpack while they are taking a break and carefully sharing a waterskin. While it's always difficult to judge, the manfri seems pensive, as if it were considering what to say.
"Thing in dome made, not born. Made to hide. Made to grow. Made to control."
"Not born of Sargrass. Made from Sargrass by man like you, but more outside."
"More made. Made in grass by outside man who wants all grass. Outside man take outside and Sargrass, put together."
"Circle of places in dome is old. Older than manfri. Not work. Work now, cycle close, perhaps. Outside man, not know circle of place, but would want."
"We know you. We help, you help. Help with outside man, you make decision.
The creature doesn't respond to any questions, leaving the Bloodpack to puzzle out what it meant. Instead, it leads off again for the last parts of the trip to Rattledam. A short while late, the manfri stop and the speaker approachs Tishe'.
"No closer. Too close, too ..."
"Manfri know story. Manfri not manfri, but there."
"Manfri not tell story. Not until you learn story."
As soon as he finishes speaking, the manfri joins his companions and they weave effortlessly into the grass surrounding the Bloodpack.
Vayine Tuesday April 8th, 2008 11:52:43 PM
The Drow is suprised by the reverance in Gry's voice. Seeing the others having similar reactions the Drow begins feeling that the Packs new Mates might deserve his respect. The drow places is right arm up to his heart in a warriors salute.
Tishe' Wednesday April 9th, 2008 12:32:27 PM
Tishe' is excited about what little information the Bloodpack receives from the Manfri. "It is another thread to what we have known", she tells her packmates. "There is a man from outside of the Sargrass that is seeking to control the entire region. He also doesn't know about the travel circles. It will probably be a good idea to not tell the Council about either of these facts."
Trellus Wednesday April 9th, 2008 3:11:48 PM
Once again, Trellus marvels at the ease with which the manfri move through the Grass. In no time, they have stopped near Rattledam.
The blond man listens carefully to the speech, trying to puzzle his way through it. He holds up a hand in farewell as the manfri depart, and then turns to his packmates, idly rubbing the back of his head with his right hand.
He nods vigorously as Tishe speaks. "Absolutely," he affirms emphatically. "Not a word about this dude or the travel circle or Oddholme to the Council. Its time for some secrets of our own."
The cleric thinks some more. "Telling us we need to learn the story I understand," he muses, and then goes on to explain to the newer members of the pack. "The manfri...and, well the monks...light, everybody we run into, it seems...all feel you learn best through experience. None are willing to just sit and explain something, they say we have to feel it, touch it, taste it, live it before we'll understand the Cycle of the Grass. Light, maybe they're right."
Trellus shakes his head a couple times, then continues. "So anyway, that part I get. But 'Manfri not manfri, but there'...I got no idea."
"I say we keep our threads tight, get into Rattledam, get it over with, and go back to Oddholme and see what we can find out about this Outsider and them Travel Circles." He looks over at Gry. "You think the Back Way in? I don't wanna mess with a welcome committee at the gate."
-------- Active Spells:
Endure Elements - 24 hours Magic Vestment - Extended (shield) - +2 AC Magic Vestment - Extended (armor) - +2 AC Status - Gry, Olaf, Flea
------ Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Flea Wednesday April 9th, 2008 6:37:43 PM
Flea rubs her nose as she ponders what the manfri say. The gnome might not be very wise, but she isn't stupid. "Travel circles gotta' be portals," she volunteers, "an' seems they were closed, but now they're open."
Thinking some more, she adds, "Manfri not manfri, but there, might mean some early ancestor of the Manfri might have been a witness to 'the story'." As an afterthough she adds, "I wonder if what happened back then changed them? You know, made them Manfri?"
Olaf Wednesday April 9th, 2008 8:49:55 PM
Olaf follows along with the others of the 'pack, uncertain what to make of the riddling Manfri. "I'm thinkin' we got some learnin' ta do once we get inside... like we gotta know the story 'nuff to let the Manfri tell it to us. I still wonder how we can activate those travel circles---all this grass is getting mighty strange at times."
At Trellus's comment on ways in, Olaf smiles a slight grin, and contemplates the huge city that he anticipates, regardless of how they intend to make it inside.
Yanosh Wednesday April 9th, 2008 8:51:15 PM
silently the Dwarven cleric follows the rest.
Taking Stock (DM JohnP) Thursday April 10th, 2008 12:26:58 AM
The Bloodpack discusses what the manfri have just told them and what it may mean for their future. As ever, the messages are somewhat cryptic and onyl time will tell what the manfri intended to say (or not say).
As they discuss it, Trellus suggests the Back Way into Rattledam. Even while some of them feel the pull of family and friends, or even simply shopping, there is still some concern over how they will be received in Rattledam. Malafret would probably welcome, or so they guess, but who knows how the other Monks would respond.
Maybe there should be some decision made before proceeding.
Yanosh d20+2=18 d20+1=5 Thursday April 10th, 2008 11:31:21 AM
Keeping pace with the rest Yanosh watches the grasses around him. This strange and new place has alot to teach. Luck has been with him landing him amoung friends he has made in the dream Inn. But here he is just the new one again. One to earn his place in the pack. Suddenly self concious of his face Yanosh wraps his scarf tighter. Once again his burns shame him. "Ugly Dwarf" He mutters to himself.
Home sick for the Vein and his mountain family has been replaced by by his faith in Gargul. But he cannot shake that they left the Darkelf alone in OddHolme to die alone. "If it is his time. Then so be it." he softly decares.
Spot 18 Listen 5
Spells cast endure elements
(OoC Not to sound like I'm out of the loop but what ever happened to the split of the treasure? Did Yanosh get the Belt? If so can he be using it now? If he has to he can work to pay the rest back what is above and beyond his share of the split. I was having computer troubles around that time and I dont think I ever found out the end results.)
Trellus Thursday April 10th, 2008 5:06:53 PM
Not hearing any objections, Trellus nods his head decisively. He heads in the direction of Rattledam, intending to turn aside as soon as the dome comes into view. The cleric intends to find a small cave in the ground some 600 ft from the city and descend down into it.
"Flea, can you go first?" he asks, when they arrive. "I don't want to run into any beaters, just straight through and up to the Rattledam."
The blond man grins at Vayine, Olaf, and Yanosh. "You're gonna LOVE this."
OOC to DM - see DM Anthony's posts on 5/20/03, 5/22/03, and 6/16/03 to see what we're doing.
-------- Active Spells:
Endure Elements - 24 hours Magic Vestment - Extended (shield) - +2 AC Magic Vestment - Extended (armor) - +2 AC Status - Gry, Olaf, Flea
------ Spells Prepared: Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
0 -- Create Water (x2), Detect Magic (x2), Guidance, Read Magic 1 -- **Endure Elements (x2), Remove Fear (x2), Shield of Faith(x2), Sanctuary (d) 2 -- Align Weapon, Eagle's Spendor, Resist Energy(fire), Resist Energy(elec)(x2), *Status, Bulls
Vayine Thursday April 10th, 2008 8:28:45 PM
Vayine is struck with curiosity with the comments made by the cleric. He checks his sword, testing its balance in case they meet any of these beaters mentioned.
Olaf Thursday April 10th, 2008 9:04:35 PM
Olaf frowns in contemplation of the mysterious path they are to follow, then stamps his feet, muttering, "darn grass so hot I got sweat between my toes. Ne'er'd thought'd be that hot 'fore."
Tishe' Thursday April 10th, 2008 9:57:04 PM
(ooc: sorry about the treasure, let me send a final email as to what everyone got.)
Tishe' has used the secret entrance and the underground caves once before, so knows what to expect. but will let the more experienced members lead the way. As she gets closer, her pace slows down and she lags behind.
Thoughts fill her mind of the last time she was here. Mac the Minotaur was at her side, and Gilan, and Sterlin, and Anuk... And the Blackpack made her feel... defiled...
Grymash Thursday April 10th, 2008 10:11:36 PM
Grymash's excitement about being smarter is quickly snuffed out by the manfri's latest words. Being with outside man, manfri not manfri, circles in dome?!! In an instant, Grymash is shot back Dumbville. A little dizzy from the trip, he struggles not to stumble over his own feet.
To the Cave (DM JohnP) Thursday April 10th, 2008 11:04:26 PM
Following Trellus' direction, the Bloodpack moves towards Rattledam until it is just visible. Then the cleric and the older members of the Bloodpack begin to search for a hidden cave entrance.
After quite a bit of searching, Flea comes across the opening. To her eyes, the entrance seems to be even better hidden than before. Grymash leads Olaf, Vayine and Yanosh closer to the cave while Tishe' trails behind. Yanosh, being a dwarf, isn't intimidated by the cave and neither is Vayine. It's difficult to tell how Olaf feels about the proposed trip.
Of course, the newcomers might feel a bit better if someone explained what they will have to do to enter Rattledam by this route. There's also the question of what everyone does with their gear - do they hide it nearby, or take it with them and potentially cause problems inside the dome. Finally, unless they have it hidden away inside their packs, no one probably has their swimming gear with them.
Yanosh Friday April 11th, 2008 3:39:12 PM
Seeing the cave Yanosh turns to Olaf smirking, "At least we will be out of the heat and sun." Then turning to Trellus, "What are these "Beaters" you speak of?" He asks sliding his Axe from his shoulder.
Trellus Friday April 11th, 2008 5:11:28 PM
Trellus waits a bit for Flea to get a look and give the 'all clear'. He looks up at Yanoh's question.
"Oh, 'Beaters' means the monks, or pretty much any authority figure you don't much like. Speaking of not liking, armor and weapons are not allowed inside. We'll attact WAY too much unwanted attention."
He nods at the hole.
"This leads down into the tunnels the monks use for the Council meetings, and where the packs they use store gear. We got a spot reserved for us. We'll head down and stop at a cavern, and store our gear. Then we'll keep going and get into town."
The twinkle in his eye gives away the fact that Trellus is holding out on something. It disappears for a moment. "Uh, how are you dudes on swimming?" he asks mischieviously.
Excited to be showing the newest pack-mates the tunnels under Rattledam, Flea is distracted and doesn't do her best at recon.
"Maybe if we have some time later, Trellus will let me show you guys the door." More quietly to the dwarf, with a nudge and a wink, she adds, "the magical door...the golden door..."
Turning back to the task at hand, she continues, "I'll go first. Just in case." Cinching her black leather jacket a little more closely about her, she blends into the shadows (Hide=41) and searces for the glowing mushroom trail (Search=20) before beckoning to the group to follow her.
Tishe' Friday April 11th, 2008 8:02:13 PM
Tishe' tries to shake off her forboding thoughts, knowing that her packmates will be there for anything. Yet her admonitions go only to her head, and do not reach her heart. With a wry smile, she reflects that she has never been good at dealing with the heart; others or, it seems, her own.
She will follow her packmates into the caves and hide all her possessions behind the Bloodpack's rock, keeping only a set of smallclothes for swimming and a change of clothing to wear once dry.
In the caves before the pool, she strips without embarassment and dons the smallclothes. "Its silly, really", she tells Yanosh and Olaf, "but the Rattledamers want to swim with clothes on!"
Into the Caves (DM JohnP) Sunday April 13th, 2008 12:20:25 AM
Flea is able to find the trail of mushrooms that directs packs moving to and from Rattledam. Of course, Grymash and Olaf can see quite clearly in the cave and don't really need much assistance.
Since it has been so long since they passed through this path, it isn't particularly familiar. Still, there some points of the cave that stir memories in the older members of the Bloodpack. For the newcomers, this is all new and different. The cave is narrow in spots, enough so that Grymash nearly has to crawl ... and crawling would probably be better judging from the cursing that follows a muffled "thump".
The cave finally opens into a chamber filled with truncated stalagmites. Trellus leads the way to the one reserved for the use of the Bloodpack. Glancing about, it isn't immediately possible to tell if there are more, or fewer, packs serving the Council. After taking several minutes to remove their gear, the Bloodpack is ready to continue towards Rattledam.
The pool lies placid and still, unaffected by winds or anything else. It takes a moment for the Bloodpack to change into what they will wear for the swim. When the first of them steps into the water, the ripples spread across the surface of the pool to be reflected back from the far wall. What was once nearly a perfect mirror quickly becomes a rippled, disturbed surface.
Finally, everyone is ready to make the swim. After receiving directions from Trellus and the others, the newcomers think that they know how to proceed. Even better, they are paired with a member of the Bloodpack to show the way. Then, singly or in pairs, the Bloodpack inhales and dives beneath the surface of the pool. When the last of them dives, the ripples spread away in all directions, leaving the surface disturbed for an unknown time.
In fact, concern wasn't really needed. The Bloodpack make the dive and push their way through into Rattledam. Once they surface on the far side, the smell is the first thing that all of them notice - familiar and home-like to some, alien and unknown to others.
As they look around, the Bloodpack learns that their return was unexpected. No one is waiting for them. Rattledam lies ahead.
DM Request - Please post what items were left outside. Before you worry ... no, nothing will happen. This is simply so that I (and the others) have an idea how your character is dressed.
DM Retroactive Continuity - Arms and armor are definitely frowned upon inside. Jewelry and similar items are usually overlooked. Items of questionable origin, obviously magical, or potentially used as weapons will usually draw attention.
P.S. Catacombs is accessible now. Let the buying and selling begin.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday April 14th, 2008 12:42:24 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of April 7 - April 13
Riddles of someone from 'outside' who seeks control of the plains, 'Manfri not Manfri' and more are revealed by the Manfri. Those who travelled long with the Bloodpack are accustomed to the Manfri's strange way of telling things but the newcomers can only listen and watch...
The Bloodpack is guided to Rattledam by the Manfri. Then, close to the city entrance they leave the group... The Back Way inn seems the most appropriate for our friends...
There's a hint of joy in the hearts of the older Bloodpack members as they deliver little pieces of how to get into the city to the newcomers. But soon Yanosh, Olaf and Vayine will understand how things go in Rattledam!
Let's go!!
Vayine Monday April 14th, 2008 8:49:57 AM
Vayine leaves all of his gear except for his sword which he straps to his side to allow better movement. he remains dressed for modesty in his academy uniform.
Tishe' Monday April 14th, 2008 9:57:58 AM
Tishe' places her backpack, and all her weapons in the hidden place for the Bloodpack, confident that they will not be disturbed. She retains the wearing of her Sargrass Pants o Plenty, and puts her spellbook, her wand of speak with animals, wand of identify, and periapt of wisdom. The ring of protection stays on her finger, but her light green tunic comes up over her head, is carefully folded and then put in her pocket. Wearing just the pants and a halter, she is ready for her plunge.
She coaxes Tacia through the unfamiliar entrance by explaining carefully with a charge from her Speak with Animals wand. Wart comes along with the expediency of holding onto the horned toad and pushing through the water membrane. A couple quick kicks gets her out of the room behind the waterfall and she rushes towards the surface with Tacia in tow.
Once on land, her Sargrass-made Pants o Plenty quickly dry, and Tishe' redons her tunic, and periapt. She tries to enjoy the filtered sunlight while the others get ready, but she keeps looking around with her shoulderblades tingling.
"Trellus, lets' see if your parents can give us a meal and some information. I'd like to use Gilan's house to sleep, but we've been gone so long I don't know if someone else may not have moved in..."
Yanosh Monday April 14th, 2008 11:47:43 AM
Storing all of his weapons and gear Yanosh stands looking at his things with his last dagger in his hand. The matching mate left in the Ice Vein with his adopted family. Yanosh frowns debating on hiding the weapon and taking it with him. Being an outsider Yanosh knows he will be under enough scruteny as it is, tossing his dagger in with the rest of his things he sighs heavily.
Dressed only in his kilt and shirt Yanosh covers his severly burnt head in his blue/grey scarf. Moving over to waters edge he stands watching everyone else dive in. Pulling off his boots Yanosh wades in. Following the rest Yanosh swims the distance and serfaces on the other side. The soggy Dwarf wades out. His wool kilt hangs heavily dripping large amounts of water about his hairy Dwarf feet. Checking to make sure his head and face is still covered Yanosh mumbles somthing about taking forever to dry out.
Looking at the rest of the group Yanosh says, "Well guess I'm ready."
The smells of the city assault him. Long has he been outside in the fresh clean air of the Mother Wold. His large Dwarven nose wrinkles at the smell of the city.
All that can be seen of the Dwarfs face is his nose and his eyes capped with bushy red eyebrows, part of the left one is missing. His braided mustache and goatee can be seen sticking out from the bottom of the scarf.
Trellus Monday April 14th, 2008 4:45:48 PM
The blond cleric unloads his gear in his marked alcove. Nearly everything goes into it. From inside the alcove, Trellus retreives a brown colored one piece, shortsleeved tunic that extends down to just above his knees. He also ties a simple woven rope around his waist as a belt.
Trellus keeps his rings (Grass woven one and blood red platinum band) and his Pendant (under his tunic) and his mundane earring.
Breaking the surface of the interior dam, the cleric smiles widely at the sight of the famliliar woven dome arcing above his head. He'd really like to stay and cannonball Gry a couple times, but decides against it.
Trellus swims easily to the side of the dam and climbs out. When the rest of the pack join him, he waves them on into the town. "My house is this way. C'mon" Turning, he strides purposefully through streets and back alleys, totally comfortable in the familiar surroundings.
Olaf Monday April 14th, 2008 9:13:10 PM
Olaf looks around, somewhat bashful about removing clothing in front of the others, but still takes off his mithral shirt, buckler, shortbow, and sickle, along with his quiver, and puts them with gentleness into his small, unpreposessing backpack... a haversack that doesn't bulge at all, even with such ungainly items within.
He spends a few minutes with Flea concealing a silver dagger on his inner thigh, "just in case" (take 20 on Sleight of Hand for a 34). Finally, he removes many of the garments that make his cold weather gear, until a rough approximation of what seems to be 'normal' clothing adorns him.
"Well, here we go..." he says as he stamps the ground, spits to the side, then joins with his veteran pack member to slide under the water. Upon getting to the other side, he settles a pair of well-made, slightly tinted glasses upon his eyes, marking a contrast to his straggly blond hair and trail-weary clothes and furs. He pale eyes glint with excitement at the city, mouth slightly agape.
Into Rattledam (DM JohnP) Monday April 14th, 2008 9:47:49 PM DM Apology - Sorry for the "early" post tonight. I'm out of town on the road and the hotel business centre closes in 20 minutes.
The Bloodpack store their gear in the provided spot. Some 'Pack members, like Vayine, remove things in a hurry with barely any thought. Others, like Olaf and Yanosh, seem to consider every item. Not all of the newcomers remember the warnings provided by their fellows, or consider that they are serious. Vayine still carries his sword while Olaf spends a lot of time trying to hide a dagger on his "inner thigh". The human tried to persuade Flea to help but the gnome may protest that she doesn't know Olaf nearly well enough.
Once they are through and dressed again, Trellus prepares to lead everyone to his dwelling. Tishe' had considered going to Gilan's dwelling but has no idea if it would still be unoccupied.
The Bloodpack has one last chance to ensure that the newcomers ready for Rattledam before they enter the crowded living areas.
Vayine Monday April 14th, 2008 11:25:11 PM
Vayine brushes his clothing off, a futile attempt but it seems to make him happy. crossing his arms he watches over his mates protectively.
Flea Tuesday April 15th, 2008 12:09:12 AM
With no worries, Flea packs away most of her gear in the tunnel. Her HHHaversack packed full with her leather shadow armour, holy sword, wands, daggars, potions, and other magical and non magical items of adventuring.
Emerging from the water in naught but her skivvies, she holdsa a small bundle of clothes under her arm. when the time is right, the rogue will don her standard adventuring outfit of tunic and close fitting leggings. The crimson sash gifted by Grymash is tied about her waist, the red ring on one hand, her crimson velvet gnomes cap on her head. On her feet are her only shoes, the heavily embroidered red boots that give her an extra burst of speed when the magic is activated. Tucked in one boot is her set of thief's tools.
Tishe' Tuesday April 15th, 2008 12:27:32 PM
Before going through the water, Tishe' glances at Trellus and Flea who are putting almost all their stuff away and thinks better of her seletions. Instead, she empties her pockets of all her magical regalia and only brings to the surface her shirt, red ring, and red sash in her Sargrass Pants.
"Vayine sweetie?" she calls in the cavern, "I've never seen anyone weaving a sword on the inside of Rattledam. It would be better if you left it here." She looks at the long-time Bloodpack for back-up. "For me, I can always get back here once a day to study."
Once above, she'll follow Trellus to his parents' home.
Yanosh Tuesday April 15th, 2008 12:33:33 PM
(OoC Ok just got the finalized list of things from the pile of loot. If I may Yanosh has on the belt of Giant str. If not thats ok just let me know when he can have it in game play.)
Yanosh follows Tishe', Flea and the rest as the find their way in the strange city. A Domed City. Not much unlike his Mountain Home.
Olaf Tuesday April 15th, 2008 9:57:29 PM
Olaf makes certain that his armor is properly stowed and his weapons stowed or well concealed (he feels uncomfortable without any weapon, reasoning keeping a dagger concealed will work given his light touch).
He asks Trellus, "Well now, how do we look?" Furs and well-worn leather adorn the gaunt young man, a backpack on his shoulders and lightly tinted glasses on his eyes. He takes his bandolier and puts it within his backpack (Haversack) as well, then thinks about it, and pulls out a small leather sack, heavily weighted, and puts it in his backpack as well.
[ooc: sorry; sleight of hand bonus for dagger is +2, not +4; total sleight of hand bonus for concealing is +16]
Trellus Tuesday April 15th, 2008 10:09:36 PM
The blond man chuckles at the sight of Olaf dressed in fur. "Looks like you're hot," he remarks with a grin. "But you should be fine. Minding your own business is a Rattledam trait...as long as we don't run into any monks."
Trellus gives Yanosh a nod of agreement when Tishe tells him to leave the sword. "You really don't want the trouble," he warns.
However, the Bloodpack is not noted for weaving a simple pattern. So if the dwarf is dead set on taking his sword, the cleric ends up just sighing "Oooookaaaay" and plunges into the town.
Trellus keeps to the back roads. He and Gry have spent an entire childhood trying to avoid the monks, usually successfully, and he keeps to the pattern he knows. "Watch for beaters," he tells the half-orc.
Trellus heads home, with some trepidation. This is quite likely the last time he will ever come here, and memories flood his senses with every turn.
Flea Tuesday April 15th, 2008 11:41:40 PM ...as long as we don't run into any monks...
"Like there's any chance of that, Trellus!" says the gnome. "Monks in Rattledam are like fleas on a dog!"
Only too late does the rogue realize her gaff, and claps her hand over her mouth.
DM Apology (JohnP) Wednesday April 16th, 2008 12:12:48 AM
Sorry - got back late and had to do some stuff for work tonight. No post tonight.
Grymash d20+2=11 d20+5=19 Wednesday April 16th, 2008 3:20:17 AM
Grymash chooses to keep all his gear with him. Though he tucks away his large double ax into his magic quiver. It looks like it shouldn't be able to hold it, but it does. The half-orc also reveals to the newcomers that his armor is just as deceptive. Upon muttering a few words of power, the steelgrass breastplate glamors into priestly robes of Gargul. Even the horned helm takes upon the image of the robes hood. Grymash breathes a sigh of relief. Its been a while since he has used this ability and was worried he forgot the right words to say.
Grymash whispers back to Trellus, "Yep, Gry knows. Air strong wit Beater smells."
(spot 11, listen 19)
Yanosh Wednesday April 16th, 2008 11:40:23 AM
Stuned at being accused of taking his sword Yanosh points at Vayine.
Feeling naked with out any weapons or armour The Dwarf knows this will be a real test of his strength in Gargul. Now he will have to use his spells more then his Axe.
Vayine Wednesday April 16th, 2008 10:58:08 PM
The Drow gives another sheepish grin and offers a smile smile and nod in apology. He hides his blade, feeling naked and empty with out a blade in his hand. He would rather have the comforting feeling of a blade on his hip but refuses to do anything to cause problems with his mates and who ever rules the city.
Home Again (DM JohnP) Thursday April 17th, 2008 12:25:14 AM
Trellus leads the way through the uncrowded, less-used back roads between the back entrance and his parents' house. For once, they manage to make the journey without atttacting the attention of any monks. And it's just as well, too, since the newcomers are clearly not lifelong residents of Rattledam.
The Bloodpack soon draws close to Trellus' family home and they can soon hear the sound of a potter's wheel turning quickly and someone whistling as they work. It's a matter of moments before Trellus stands before the portal, hand outstretched to knock.
The other original members of the Bloodpack can see familiar places in the neighbourhood. Very little has changed, really, for both good and bad. Flea and Grymash seem to sense the approach of some "beaters" and they hiss at Trellus to act.
The newcomers are trying to take everything in - the sights, sounds and smells of Rattledam swirl around. Yanosh feels some kind of connection between hsi home and this place. Olaf has managed to hide a dagger even though he notices many people carrying belt knives or similar tools on their person. Still, a dagger may be a bit much. Vayine ... well, that's a different story unless his companions were able to convince him to leave the sword behind.
Grymash Thursday April 17th, 2008 12:45:35 AM
Letting the cowl of his 'robe' cast a dark shadow over his face, only his disapproving scowl can be seen on his lips. Grymash fights off the his first impulse to reach for his hidden weapon. He runs his fingers across his holy symbol instead. A short prayer is muttered. He asks for strength of will and spirit to keep his temper in check. No need to make this bad situation any worse.
Yanosh Thursday April 17th, 2008 2:27:21 PM
Knowing he is out of place here Yanosh trys to look as unassuming as possiple. thinking to him self he notes when he next can he will get a cloak that will note him as the cleric he is as well as protect him from the elements.
Tishe' Thursday April 17th, 2008 4:57:24 PM
Tishe' worries that the group won't be able to get in fast enough before Gry and Flea's warning of beaters becomes reality. She keeps Tacia by her side and will move into the house as soon as Trellus says it is OK.
Vayine (Apology) Thursday April 17th, 2008 5:01:15 PM
Sorry I just realized that my last post was not very clear. Vayine will Hide his sword at the tunnels exit to retreive in when the party leaves. He doesn't wish to get his pack mates in to any trouble and yeilds to their knowledge of the situataion.
(tonights post)
Vayine follows the others down the streets his gaze travels over the exotic sights allowing his eyes only brief moments to feast upon the banquet of wonders before him. He trys not to draw attention to himself as an outsider so he walks and talks with his mates like he's been to the city before.
Olaf Thursday April 17th, 2008 8:01:25 PM
Olaf takes in the sights and sounds of this strange new city, completely overwhelmed by the experience. He thinks back to trading in villages of 20 or 30, and works hard keep his eyes in his head. As they go to enter Trellus's house, he mentions a thought, "Well, I'm guessin' we need some better clothes n' th' like if we're gonna not stick out so much. Any hope a' that?"
Inside the Mudroom (DM JohnP) Thursday April 17th, 2008 11:22:10 PM
The mudroom is always what Trellus' brothers called the area where the family's clay goods were thrown. The scene is deeply familiar to Trellus when he pushes the door open and enters the family's home. His father's broad back are hunched over the wheel while one of his brothers - Trellus can't tell right away which one - carries a load of pitchers and drinking goblets to the kiln for firing.
The rest of the Bloodpack move inside once the door is open. For some of them, the scene is familiar.
Trellus' father turns to see the Bloodpack standing close by. A smile breaks across his face as the older human stands and makes one step toward Trellus.
"Ma! Boys! It's Trellus ... he's back!"
After that, Trellus' father steps close and sweeps the cleric into an embrace. The rest of the family comes outside, looking at the rest of the 'Pack until they recognize some of them. As they crowd close, the questions start.
"How are you?"
"What happened?"
"Did you come straight here?"
"How did that happen?"
"How long can you stay?"
"What can you tell us?"
Tishe' Friday April 18th, 2008 11:23:34 AM
Having only met Trellus' parents and siblings once, Tishe' hangs back and lets the long-time Rattledammers talk. She does look around for Jenny, and if able to speak quietly with only one of Trellus' brothers or his mother, the mystic will ask after the bright young girl. "We met Jenny a couple weeks ago with her pack, is she about town?"
Tishe' will also introduce the family to her new companion. "This is Spartacia, or Tacia for short. We rescued her out in the Sargrass and I'm teaching her to help me in various tasks."
Trellus Friday April 18th, 2008 2:25:38 PM
Trellus returns his dad's hug, holding on an extra moment. His mom he engulfs and holds a long time. Finally, he pulls back, wiping a tear from his face.
"I'm shady," he replies, and then sighs. "I don't know how long we can stay. The monks don't know we're here, and once they find out, they'll summon us to report...." The blond man trails off and looks around the room, soaking in every sight. "....I don't think we're coming back," he finishes quietly.
Trellus shakes his head to wipe away the emotion and tries to change the subject. "My manners are sunbaked. This is Vayine, and Olaf, and Yanosh. They're part of the pack." He turns to his newer packmates, "Dudes, this is my mom and dad."
Turning back to his father, he adds, "We pulled Jenny and her pack out of a real twisted loom Out There. Have you seen her? As for the rest...Dad, I'm calling Family Meeting. Right now. We got a lot to tell you and somethingt to ask you and it's a life changer and we ain't got much time."
The blond man finally catches on that his mouth is just going on and on, and he stops talking.
Yanosh Friday April 18th, 2008 3:19:21 PM
When he is intoduced Yanosh stands a bit straighter. Adjusting his scarf over his face and head the Dwarven Cleric quetly says, "I am Yanosh Ironfist of the village Ice Peaks of the Ice Vein. Also of the Clan Ironfist, in the Scab Mountains of the Northern Continent." Poudly but not arogantly Yanosh stands before the family of Trellus. Softly dripping water from his kilt.
Vayine Friday April 18th, 2008 8:15:21 PM
Vayine greets the cleric's Parents..."I am pleased to meet the Sire of Trellus..." the drow seems a little at loss for words but grasps the mans fore arm in the warriors salute. then he drifts back towards Tishe, to wait for the others as the blonde cleric explains the situation.
Olaf Sunday April 20th, 2008 9:08:14 PM
Olaf grins and stamps his feet when introduced to Trellus's family. "Ye've got a gud'un, there. Name's Olaf, a trapper by trade. Pleasure ta meet ya." He proffers his hand, and hopefully gets the firm shake he was expecting.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday April 21st, 2008 12:33:31 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of April 14 - April 20
The Pack carefuly removes their gear deep inside the tunnels - it takes some persuading to convince Vayine that he better not take his blade and dispite the warnings Olaf is convinced no one will see the concealed dagger. Why not accept the gentle warnings by the old ones in the pack? Gry is the only one adept to keep all his gear with him - it only takes him a hard time remembering the words of the spell...
After the swim the Pack again catches sight of Rattledam. A familiar look for some an oddity for the new ones. Dripping water the Pack is guided by Trelus through the back alleys up to his parents house. Just seconds before some 'Beaters' would appear they all go inside getting to know Trellus's family.
Flea Monday April 21st, 2008 5:38:14 PM
Flea hangs back, peeking out at Trellus' family from behind the bigger pack members, a big grin on her face. When its her turn she says, "its me! Flea! Remember?"
Vayine Monday April 21st, 2008 8:54:19 PM
Vayine continues to monitor Trellus and his family watching with slight envy over the way they interact with each other.
Catching Up (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 12:48:45 AM
The Bloodpack stand out of the way as Trellus' family swarm around the cleric to greet him. Each of the 'Pack members, new and old, nod as Trellus introduces them. One of the smaller children comes close to Tishe' and Tacia.
When Trellus announces that he may not return to Rattledam after this trip, his parents' faces go slack for a moment. Flea and Trellus both catch the glance that his parents share before his mother responds.
"Son! No! It's been so long since you've been here, and with Jenny ..."
His mother fades into silence just as Trellus asks about his sister. Everyone quietens now, as the family waits for the patriarch to respond.
"Yes, Jenny got back. That was the last word that we had of you. Since then ... she and her pack have been out. Quite a bit. They're gone now ... and have been for some time."
"Family meeting? Sure ... let's get whoever can get here as quickly as possible. Probably not long before the monks come calling for you."
The patriarch gestures, shooing people away. The elders go back to their work, doing what they need to set things aside for some time. The older children are sent to carry messages to the other family members not present. And the youngest are shooed into the dwelling behind Trellus' mother, who is promising them treats if they help her get tea and food ready.
Trellus' father gestures for the cleric to enter the dwelling.
"Not polite to leave your friends out here. Bring them in to eat and drink, share what you need and we'll find a place for them when it's time for the family to talk."
Yanosh Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 12:11:21 PM
Yanosh follows last into the home of Trellus's family. At the mention of the Monks the Dwarf is suddely nervous and even more consious of being an outsider.
Trellus Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 1:56:47 PM
The blond human waves everybody into the dwelling and sets about helping his parents prepare the meal while simultaneously trying to keep the newer members of the pack at ease.
Finally, everyone is seated and eating. Trellus launches into his tale -
"The monks sent us out to rescue Jenny, which we did. But in the process we broke some rules, some big ones, and when we report...well, we don't think they're gonna like it very much. Our teacher was out there, too. And she said she could keep us from getting mind wiped, but we'd probably be banished from Rattledam."
Trellus looks up guiltily at his mother, and quickly plunges on. "But while we were out there, we found another dome. Its pretty big, it'll be really hard for anyone to find, and after a little cleanup, a couple hundred dudes could live there easy."
The boy goes on to describe the magical properties of OddHolme, the rooms, the congretation center, the magic field - anything he can think of to make it sound attractive.
"I was thinking..." Trellus swallows nervously, well aware of what he's asking. "I was thinking the family could move there. Maybe with some of the others. Sorta start our own town."
There really isn't anything else to say. The boy waits for his parent's reaction.
Olaf Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 9:10:18 PM
Olaf's face gets paler at the mention of the monks, their reputation as benevolent tyrants now firmly cemented in his mind. Trellus is clearly occupied with his difficult suggestion, so he turns to his nearby companions and asks in a soft voice, "Uh, Flea or someone who knows what's what here...I'm wonderin' what us outer-like-folk are gonna say when them monks show up. Any suggestions?"
The Family's Decision (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 22nd, 2008 11:29:15 PM
Trellus' parents look back and forth between each other as he relates his story. His mother's face clearly shows her worry, particularly when her son mentions breaking rules. His father tries to be more stoic but cannot stop wincing slightly when "mind-wiping" is mentioned.
"Ohhh ... I don't know, son. I mean, the family has been here in Rattledam for a long time. Going someplace else ... well, it would be a change. And the outside, isn't it dangerous? How would your mother get out there?"
"Maybe your teacher will come through for you. Maybe it won't be so bad that the Council will want to censure us. Can't we just wait?"
Trellus' parents look back and forth between each other. Some of his siblings look excited, particularly the younger ones. But the older ones are picking up on the tense mood of their parents and look nervous themselves.
Still, no decision has been reached before one of the 'Pack members watching the street hisses that there is a group of people approaching.
Flea Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 12:24:50 AM
Sitting beside Yanosh, Flea explains, "folks from outside are welcomed here, as long as they 'play along', you know?" She looks in the dwarf's eyes for understanding, before continuing, "just don't talk about anything outside the Plains, an' you'll be okay. 'Member, I'm from outside too."
Flea moves quietly over to Trellus when the cleric's folks start to reveal reluctance at the idea of immigrating to Oddholme. Tugging on the young man's tunic to get his attention she whispers, "maybe we should just leave? We don't wanna' get your folks into any trouble." The exited youngsters have the gnome worried. "Let's find the monks, and face up to whatever white thread they want to spin."
Hearing that there is someone on the way, she aks, "is there a back way out?"
Vayine Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 1:00:50 AM
Vayine doesn't want to seem rude but feels inclined to add his voice to the young mans.
"Mylord and lady, I strongly urge you to heed the advice of your son. My own brother as well as a few of our pack have stayed behind to make Oddholme a new home. If you are worried about traveling for supplies, we have access to portals that will allow one to access markets in moments. the field that surrounds the Dome is powerful and will help in keeping you safe. I ask you as a man of many years of age, and one who has lost those he cared deeply for, This is in my opinion both the wisest and safest option for your families. I have left my home to travel and found the move worth more then I could have guessed possible, I know it is your choice, I just urge you to look at all the angles."
Tishe' Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 12:13:21 PM
The brown-eyed mystic keeps her voice low and her mood subdued as she listens to Trellus and his parents. She pets Tacia and entertains a couple of the piggies who want to pat the Sargrass Ridgeback hound at her side.
Despite all good intentions of not interfering in a family discussion, something perks at Tishe's ears, and before she is aware, she is off talking again.
"You are obviously good and virtuous people and wishing to live safe and free. Like my mother Mara Weaver wanted. She was a citizen of Rattledam until she met and fell in love with Dayfdd the Bard. My mother remembers very little of her life here, yet I have seen her tapestries hung prominently in the Council chambers. You may have known of her, and how prominent she was, for I do not. Yet in her pursuit of love, she was banished."
She continues to pet Tacia.
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Yanosh Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 2:37:48 PM
Quietly the Dwarven Cleric listens to the family. eyes ever scanning for a way out if needed. Mind thinking of how to keep them out of the trouble they have brought into their home.
Trellus Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 4:29:16 PM
Trellus bows his head at his parents' words. He kinda expected the response.
"Well keep it in mind," he urges. "I should be able to get word to you, even if we do have to leave." He grins. "Domi is granting me some truly waxed picks."
Flea's words ring true with the blond man, and he nods. "Yeah, let's go." He gathers up the Bloodpack. "'Kay dudes, remember. Almost all the monks are decent folks, just real protective about Rattledam. Make sure whatever you tell them is the truth, cause they pick up on lies quick." He grins. "But you don't have to provide more than they ask for. For example, if anyone asks, we were on our way to see the Council, but I wanted to see my folks first, and made you dudes come with me. All true, and won't get us more than a stern look - what with the importance of family and all."
"Just warp down, and we'll be shady."
Trellus marches out of the house like he owns the place, and makes directly for the public entrance to the Temple of Pantheon - home of the council.
Grymash Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 6:51:00 PM "Gute an true. Bloodpack do comes ta Rattledam to see da beaters. An weez comes here first. Dat be true. No take much hair pullin' or arm twistin'." Grymash smirks from his little attempt at humor.
Meeting the Monks (DM JohnP) Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 11:30:29 PM
The Bloodpack listen as Trellus and his family speak. Vayine and Tishe' both add some words of encouragement to what the cleric has said and the family is clearly torn between the known present of Rattledam and the unknown future of Oddholme.
Meanwhile, Flea provides some advice to Yanosh before encouraging Trellus to go and face the Council. As the cleric says his farewell, Grymash assents to the decision.
After bidding farewell to his family, Trellus prepares to leave the compound. The rest of the Bloodpack follow in his wake, ready to meet with the Council at the Temple of Pantheon. The 'Pack is barely out of the compound, though, when they encounter a group of monks in the street. None of the monks look familiar to the Bloodpack, but that is not unexpected.
The apparent leader moves forward to address the Bloodpack.
"Are you the pack known as the Bloodpack? Comprised of Trellus, Tishe', Murdock, Gilan, Flea, and Grymash?"
"You are instructed to accompany us to the Temple."
As the leader speaks, the Bloodpack can see the other monks subtly preparing for conflict. No weapons are in evidence but these beaters may not need any.
Flea d20-1=14 Thursday April 24th, 2008 12:06:54 AM
"...an' Olaf, an' Yanosh!" adds Flea, standing up straight and as tall as her 3 ft. 3 inches allows. "Sure, we'll follow you to the Temple," she volunteers as she takes a step towards the speaker, arms hanging loosely at her side, and palms turned out.
The rogue tries to discern the mood of the monks. Sense Motive=14
Yanosh Thursday April 24th, 2008 12:14:38 PM
Always ready for a fight the Dwarf trys to mimic Fleas stance in a show of nonviolence. Quickly the Dwarven Cleric thinks of a spell that would be useful.
Tishe' Thursday April 24th, 2008 12:29:41 PM
Seeing the monks have been sent for them and not another pack, Tishe' actually relaxes a little. She also smiles a bit to see that the latest information the Council has on the Bloodpack is what Malafret and the Fempack must have reported.
She doesn't make any move to correct the monks, not wanting to antagonize or give away information. Instead, an uncharacteristically quiet Tishe' will walk along and go to the Council chambers.
Trellus Thursday April 24th, 2008 4:06:33 PM
Trellus grins at the lead monk.
"Yeah, we're The Bloodpack," he confirms casually.
Having been "instructed to accompany...to the temple" rather often in his young life, the blond man responds by sharing a look with Grymash (here we go again) and then moving in the indicated direction.
"Let's weave, dudes," he encourages.
Vayine Thursday April 24th, 2008 4:19:33 PM
The surface Drow fastens his thick smoked glass goggles over his eyes then nods his head to Trellus. the warrior slowly moves his hands down to his sides and walks slowly after him, hoping that his actions show that he doesn't, at this moment pose a threat.
Olaf Thursday April 24th, 2008 8:11:18 PM
Olaf grunts lightly, stamps his feet on the ground, and sets himself. "Alrigh' then, Trellus, lead on."
WOLD-WIDE ANNOUNCEMENT (DM JohnP) Thursday April 24th, 2008 10:52:08 PM The Wold will be down all or part of this weekend! We are puting some back end improvements in place, and we need this weekend to do the work entailed. So if you cannot get on the Wold this weekend, that's why.
Many many thanks to our programmer, John, who has put in a ton of great work.
The Council
Summoned to the Council (DM JohnP) Thursday April 24th, 2008 11:26:45 PM
Flea spends a moment trying to determine what she can about the monks but, as far as she can tell, this is simply a squad of low-level functionaries chosen more for their brawn than their brains. She, and the others, acknowledge that they are the Bloodpack. Even the newcomers do so, so the monk who addressed them silently motions for everyone to move.
Once they start walking, some monks move ahead of the 'Pack while others arrange themselves behind. The 'Pack isn't really surrounded but neither are they completely free to choose their path. All to familiar, in many ways, to the way that Trellus used to be summoned to the temple before.
The monks set a steady pace, neither too fast for the short-legged nor dawdling either. Inevitably, the movement of such a large group attracts attention from people in the streets. Even more, rather, once people look and realize that the Bloodpack is being 'escorted' by several monks. Of course, since this is Rattledam, no one pays too much attention to the doings of the monks.
Eventually, the groups nears the Temple of Pantheon. The edifice looks unchanged to Tishe' and the others who have been here before but the newcomers are, frankly, surprised. The temple is larger and more ... well ... permanent-looking than most of the other buildings that they have seen in the Plains or Rattledam. Not that Yanosh and Olaf have seen very much of either.
The monks lead the Bloodpack into the temple. Other monks and citizens of Rattledam pass by, most going about their business without making any obvious notice of the 'Pack. After passing through some corridors into a part of the temple that Trellus isn't familiar with, the lead monk stops by a heavy door. After gripping the handle and struggling a bit with latch, the lead monk swings the door open to reveal a sparsely furnished room or, maybe, a suite.
"You're to wait here. Inside. Someone will come by to see you later."
It's obvious that the Bloodpack is to go inside and here, in the heart of the temple, is hardly the place to blatantly resist them.
Tishe' Friday April 25th, 2008 9:23:28 AM
A furrow crosses her brow, but Tishe' goes on into the room. She waits until all are in and the door is shut before exhaling a small cantrip and slowly revolving in place, looking for magical emanations or listening devices. (Detect Magic)
She tells Trellus and the others with a shake of her head (negative) or touching her ears and nodding (affirmative) whether there are any magical listening devices.
Tishe' waits to see if Flea or Olaf or others are able to detect any non-magical listening/watching posts, covering the silence with some inoccuous chatter.
"Well, this is an interesting weave", she states with mild curiosity. "Last time we were here we immediately went to a full Council. I wonder if waiting for them to gather is a good thread, or warped."
Tacia keeps near Tishe', not sure what's going on, but picking up on the uneasiness of her human's packmates.
Yanosh Friday April 25th, 2008 3:50:06 PM
I am assuming that nothing is made of stone. If it is then Yanosh will use stone cunning to search the stone walls or floor or what ever is stone. Casually walking around the room, with his scarf wraped around his head, Yanosh looks at the walls. Lightly dragging his fingers along. Silently he roves the room.
Vayine d20+5=24 Friday April 25th, 2008 6:46:46 PM
The drow warrior realizes that his packmates each have a skill that can contribute to this situation and decides its time for him to lend his talents as well.
Vayine searches the room for tactial advantages, strategicly placed furniture, items that can be used in place of their missing weapons, and the general design of the room.
Grymash Friday April 25th, 2008 8:43:03 PM
Grymash eyes each of the monks. Looking unconcerned with his appraisal of the young whelps, the half-orc's expression of boredom becomes far too obvious. A waste of time as far as Grymash was concerned. However, he takes notice of one and comments, "Why yooz heart beats fast? No worry, Lord Gargul no comes for yooz dis night. Yooz still need ta earn ya scars!"
Grymash then turns his attention back to the temple. He then adds, "Gry thinks if thems make Bloodpack wait long, Gry say weez leave!"
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday April 28th, 2008 1:00:51 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of April 21 - April 27
Weekly Summary : "You are instructed to accompany us to the Temple."
Enjoying the brief moment with his family Trellus explains what the Pack has been doing lately and why they expect to be banished from the city by the Council. OddHolme is even presented to his family as a place to live instead of Rattledam.
But quickly our friends realise they have to face the Council sooner or later and as they leave Trellus's family they bump into a number of monks right away...
"You are instructed to accompany us to the Temple."
The Bloodpack is escorted towards the Temple... Deep within the temple maze they are left alone to wait for the Council...
Trellus Monday April 28th, 2008 2:00:47 PM
Trellus finds a chair and slouches into it. "Warp down, Gry," he replies softly the half-orc, grinning to take the edge off his words.
"Different beaters, same game. You know they love making us wait. They'll get around to us eventually, and it'll just get all sunbaked if we leave."
Yanosh Monday April 28th, 2008 3:15:27 PM
"HHmmmm....." A frown creases the brow of the Dwarf as paces the length of the room.
Waiting ... Waiting ... (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 29th, 2008 12:22:29 AM
The Bloodpack wait in the room, carefully checking their surroundings. The room is sparsely furnished with what soon turn out to be very uncomfortable chairs and a few tables. Fortunately for Tacia, the woven rugs cushion the hard stone floor so the dog is able to find a place to curl up.
Not so for the others. Yanosh walks around, subtly tapping the stones laid into the floor but not finding anything of note. The dwarf cannot tell much about the wooden panels that cover the walls.
The dull, plain features of the room start to wear upon the more martial members of the 'Pack. Vayine figures that the chairs could, conceivably, be picked up and hurled at any attackers but would probably need the assistance of Grymash. And the big half-orc is getting thoroughly bored ... bored enough to threaten violence. Still, Trellus and Tishe' both recommend calm and patience.
Eventually, their patience is rewarded when a group of junior monks enter the room bearing trays of food and drink. While none of the monks respond to any questions, the smell of the repast promises relief from the boredom. After placing the food and beverages on the tables, the monks silently file out of the room. One of the monks lingers a moment, arranging the trays on the table. Once the last of the other monks has left, this monk lifts their head and beams at the Bloodpack.
It takes a moment, but all of the older members suddenly recognize Malafret!
Malafret doesn't explain how ... or why ... she had disguised herself. Instead, she quickly speaks to the Bloodpack.
"Shhhh! This has to be quick!"
"I'm trying to arrange things to help you, but I can't be sure. Just remember, I've done what I can - answer their questions as best as you can without obviously lying. They'll probably use magical means to confirm your responses."
"Before I go ... what can you tell me about the Plains?"
Olaf Tuesday April 29th, 2008 6:31:01 AM
Olaf looks in plain relief at the young woman who may deliver them from an uncertain fate. He stays silent, though, letting those who know Malafret talk with her. Instead, he lets his nervousness out and follows Yanosh's lead, examining the materials of construction, and now this repast laid before them. He sniffs it suspiciously.
Yanosh Tuesday April 29th, 2008 1:26:30 PM
Too hungry to care Yanosh helps himself to the food laid before them.
Trellus Tuesday April 29th, 2008 1:48:48 PM
Trellus beams as Malafret reveals herself, but quickly quiets at her request.
"answer their questions as best as you can without obviously lying" she directs, and the blond man nods. "I have already recommended the same," he tells her.
The question regarding the Plains is totally confusing though. "That's rather open-ended," he points out doubtfully. "We know of the Circle that you taught us. We know there once was forest here, and some are trying to bring trees back. We know the Oglian are back and need to be dealt with. We know you know more about the Plains than we do."
The cleric shrugs. "What are you looking for?"
Tishe' Tuesday April 29th, 2008 6:49:25 PM
Tishe' has a war playing across her face, whether to keep silent or to tell Malafret more information. Knowing that the monk is a good friend of the Manfri, she decides to tell at least that much information.
"As we were returning to Rattledam, we weaved with a travelling group of Manfri who warned us about a whitehands raising forces outside of the Sargrass in order to warp the entire tapestry." She makes a quick mental calculation and resumes speaking. "If it would help the Council be less warped up, perhaps us getting that assignment and as much information as possible to succeed would be able to deflect some anger and let us be on our way in the same spinning."
Tacia looks up at the arriving monks, then returns to her nap. Nice rug....
Grymash Tuesday April 29th, 2008 9:57:05 PM "Maybeez Bloodpack know too much? Thays want Bloodpack ta teach themz!?" The thought perplexes him. Should he grade them on a curve? Like the curve on his ax blade. Or should it just be 'Pass or Flail'! The idea makes him chuckle.
Flea Tuesday April 29th, 2008 10:44:35 PM
Flea listens as the others confirm their findings, and adds rather unconstructively, "the Sargrass is as secretive as ever."
"What can you tell us of Rattledam while we have been away?" Flea looks serious, "do the people thrive? and, what of the other packs?" Flea wonders if the Bloodpack's nemesis, are still around.
Malafret's Words (DM JohnP) Tuesday April 29th, 2008 11:06:22 PM
The monk listens to the quick reports, bobbing her head. None of the Bloodpack have ever seen their sponsor looking this worried or perturbed.
"Your information is correct. There's something big happening that has the rest of the Council stirred up. Not sure what but they've sent other packs out, including the Fem's."
"I can't stay longer or else it will be noticed. Remember what I said."
The monk turns and slips out of the room with barely a glance backwards. As she moves, Malafret slips back into the persona of a lowly servant monk rather than a powerful member of the Council.
Trellus Wednesday April 30th, 2008 2:23:03 PM
Trellus sighs heavily upon Malafret's departure.
"Light," he grouses, rubbing the back of his head with his right hand. "Like we need something ELSE weaving picks right now."
The cleric continues pondering for a while. "Well," he declares finally, "I guess we just wait now. When we do get called in, just keep your answers honest, short, and as general as possible."
Trellus considers saying more, but, with a look around at the walls, decides not to.
Tishe' Wednesday April 30th, 2008 5:49:35 PM
The brown-haired woman nods slowly. There really isn't much more to say. "I wish Mac were here," she says wistfully, "he was great to lean up against and sit."
Flea Wednesday April 30th, 2008 7:33:36 PM
Flea rubs the back of her neck in immitation of the Bloodpack's troubled leader and wonders if she is pondering what he is pondering.
"Trellus?" she says softly, then "Guys?" before continuing. "Let's listen to what the monks have to say, an' we can go out on their mission, but," Flea fans out the fingers of one hand and examines the moons at the base of her short cut finger-nails, "but, if we don't like the mission...if it doesn't seem...right...maybe we can do what seems like the right thing, an' if we get into trouble," Flea looks seriously at her friends, "we can weave to Oddholme and hunker down there?"
Vayine Wednesday April 30th, 2008 10:59:47 PM
I agree with FLea, If anything, we might be able to use the information they give us, or don't give us to our benefit. if it turns out that the mission is one worth doing then it matters little, if it turns out to be a shady deal then we back out and counsil with the others at Oddholme and see what we can figure out.
What to Wear to an Interrogation? (DM JohnP) Thursday May 1st, 2008 12:16:48 AM
The Bloodpack discusses Malafret's parting words and plans how to respond to any questions from the Council. When they are summoned, of course.
And that is in doubt for quite some time. Everyone is getting very antsy before anyone comes to the door again. By that time, Grymash and the more energetic members of the 'Pack have nearly worn a path into the floor from their pacing. Eventually, though, everyone hears the sound of the door being unlatched and it is pushed open.
Even though none of them recognize the monk, the woman's severe expression and demeanour suggests that she is senior in the temple. Probably not a Council member but probably very close to. The woman stands in the doorway, looking at the Bloodpack before barking orders to them.
"Come with me! Leave your things - you'll either be coming back here, or not needing them. Make it quick, don't keep the Council waiting!"
"Everyone WILL come ... either the easy way, or the hard way!"
Then she stands aside, waiting for the Bloodpack to begin moving. Several other monks stand beyond her in the corridor appearing much the same as the ones who escorted the Bloodpack here - muscle, rather than brains. Clearly, these monks would provide the hard way for those who didn't feel inclined to obey the woman's commands.
Tishe' Thursday May 1st, 2008 12:13:37 PM
Brown eyes flashing, the small woman takes an immediate dislike to this, this bully who orders them about and is hoping for resistance in order enjoy their discomfiture. Yet long ago, Tishe' had learned that bullies hate being ignored and not given a reason for violence.
Gracefully, the mystic stands and walks towards the door, studiously not looking at the woman as she paces out towards the Council, Tacia at her side.
She leaves nothing in the waiting room, for she has nothing on her person except her clothes (thanks to her Pants o Plenty!)
Trellus Thursday May 1st, 2008 12:57:48 PM
Hearing Flea's question, Trellus nods. "I'm the only one of us with any ties to Rattledam," he points out. "And I've been expecting to leave it for some time now."
The cleric takes in the Bloodpack. "We'll be weaving our own picks soon enough."
With that, the self-important monk shows up, and makes her demands.
Trellus sighs, and rises from the uncomfortable chair. As he passes the woman, he asks, in complete candor, "Why are you all so convinced we're going to refuse to go with you? You pre-judge us." As the woman likely follows Pantheon, he hopes the last sentence has some bite.
Regardless, the blond cleric waves for the others to follow, and moves along the hallway where directed.
Yanosh Thursday May 1st, 2008 2:11:39 PM
Snorting in disgust the Dwarven Cleric walks past the female with out somuch as a word. Wishing he had his Axe, he would love to bring them down to size. Piece by piece.
Vayine Thursday May 1st, 2008 4:40:54 PM
The Drow follows the others out the doorway, his head held high. he thinks on the treatment he has recieved from all the people of the surface that he has meet and silently compares them to those he left behind. His mates have become like his brother, family, friends, free spirits. the druids he meet seemed neutral in all things, intent on protecting their homes. not unlike many of the creatures that inhabited the caves and caverns of his homland, they were neither good nor evil, they just lived and survived. these monks seemed fanatical, and that made them dangerious. a good man Vayine knew could easily choice a wrong path if it seemed to benefit his convictions or aid in his cause. they weren't evil by nature just corrupted by there desires, what ever they were.
Grymash d20+10=23 Thursday May 1st, 2008 10:38:52 PM "Wha?! Hard way?! Ha..uh haa ha ha ha." Grymash can't help but chuckle a little more. As he follows in behind Trellus, he lingers for a moment beside the monk hoping she is granted a whiff of his blood-scented cologne*. Grymash calmly and quietly offers her a bit of advice to think upon. "Take cares whut yooz ask for, Mortal. No just one Eye of Gargul looks upon yooz, but theres be two now!" Grymash then glances to the dwarf before continuing on into the council's chamber.
(Intimidate 23) (* Clerics of Gargul wear a blood-scented cologne to remind people of their mortality.)
Marching Through the Temple (DM JohnP) Friday May 2nd, 2008 12:03:51 AM
The monks lead the Bloodpack through the hauls of the temple. The escort clearly marks them as "people of interest" so all of the minor functionaries move aside to allow them clear, uninterrupted passage. It's a matter of moments before the Bloodpack is into halls that Trellus and Grymash remember, halls close to the Council chambers.
And ... there the doors are. Two wide doors, slightly ajar and allowing the keen-eared to hear the buzz of quiet conversation from inside. The two monks at the doors push them open to allow the Bloodpack and their escort inside. As they enter, the Council members turn their attention to the returning pack even as the doors are slowly swung shut behind them. The double thumps of the doors closing has a note of finality that somehow, even with all their preparation, still dredges up memories of childhood indiscretions from the original members of the Bloodpack.
Looking up and over to the Council table, the Bloodpack can see Malafret sitting close to one end. And, closer to the centre of the table, is Galafar the Bloodpack's longtime nemesis. Malafret seems to be trying to hide her reactions to the entry of the Bloodpack, keeping a still expressionless face. Galafar, on the other hand, makes no attempt at hiding his feelings. The head of the Council, sitting at the midpoint of the long table, clears his throat and everyone quiets.
The monk who brought them to the Council chambers begins to speak. It seems that she will be their interrogator, as well as escort.
"The Bloodpack have returned. Before we begin, what do you have to say for yourselves?"
And introduce these outsiders who stand with you if they do not speak for themselves."
Yanosh Friday May 2nd, 2008 1:14:24 PM
Silently The Dwarven Cleric stands before the council. A slight mist surounds him further marking him as an Eye of Gargul. Still dressed in a Gray and blue kilt with his head wraped in a gray scarf Yanosh crosses his arms over his chest. His Gray/Blue eyes stare at the council members. None here are freinds of his but the one seems to be a freind of the 'Packs.
Dm Highlight to display spoiler: { Spells Prepared
Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Trellus d20+12=18 Friday May 2nd, 2008 3:43:20 PM
Trellus leads the Bloodpack into the chamber, wincing only a smidge when the doors close behind him.
[Diplomacy 18] Figuring Malafret wants some distance, the cleric doesn't acknowledge her. He also ignores Galafar, choosing instead to nod in deference to the Council Head.
The woman launches into her accusations, and a pained look crosses the young man's face. He steps forward. "We are the Bloodpack," he answers simply. "One thread ends, and another takes its place. So it is with us. This is Vayine, Olaf, and Yanosh. As for what we have to say for ourselves," Trellus repeats. "We say you sent us to free the Fem Fatales. So we did."
Having thus answered both questions, the blond man waits - a picture of innocence - for the next one.
Vayine Sunday May 4th, 2008 9:33:55 PM
The Drow warrior stands silently, curious to see how this works out. he notices Gry and his frustration and knows how the Half-orc feels. these situations were not his strong point. he was a man of action not words.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday May 5th, 2008 12:58:05 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of April 28 - May 4
We need more posts friends. You are required to make as least as many posts as the DM makes - not to mention the fact that Jerry requires each and everyone to make 5 posts per week... make a better week now. You don't want to think of the consequences... whuhahahaha...
Weekly Summary : First we wait... Then we chat to the council...
Once the bloodpack is secured in the uncomfortable waiting room there's little they can do untill a few monks bring them food and drinks. It turns out one of them is their good friend Malafret. She has never been this worried before... What can be troubeling her mind?!?
After a while the Bloodpack is escorted towards the council... Doors shut behind them the interrogation begins...
Tishe' d20=13 Monday May 5th, 2008 10:10:30 AM
Emboldened by Trellus' calm words and unruffled demeanor, Tishe' stands up straighter and actually looks at the Council members. She also focus' on the Council Head and ignores their accuser. "As orphans in the Sargrass, Olaf, Vayine, and Yanosh were brought in, even as I was to the protection of the pack, the protection that all Sargrass orphans are given in the communities of Pantheon's monks." (Untrained Diplomacy: 13)
Olaf Monday May 5th, 2008 6:25:42 PM
Olaf looks around at the council warily, but lets the native residents of the Sargrass make their case. He grunts in acknowledgement of Tishe's comment, muttering "Yep, I'm thinkin' that's a good explanation..."
The Questioning Continues (DM JohnP) Monday May 5th, 2008 10:32:21 PM
The Bloodpack allows Tishe' and Trellus to speak for them. The newcomers, Olaf and Yanosh, judge that the pair are good advocates for them and do not add much. The other older members of the Bloodpack do the same.
The female monk turns and moves over to a small desk closer to the head table where the Council sits. When the Bloodpack look towards them, the Council members appear to range between indifference, interest and hostility. Galafar glares at the Bloodpack, occasionally darting glares down the table towards Malafret.
After taking some notes from the table, the woman turns back to the Bloodpack. She clears her throat before speaking.
"For form's sake, these 'orphans' that you have adopted should be entered into the records. You, newcomers, please state your names and places of origin. Loudly, too, so the clerks can get it correct."
The woman walks around closer to where Trellus and Tishe' stand. She looks at them and asks her next question.
"Yes, the Fem Fatales did report that you saved them. When they returned to Rattledam, which was some time ago. Where have you been since and what have you been doing?"
Trellus Tuesday May 6th, 2008 11:02:15 AM
The blond man's lips tighten as he holds his emotions in check. Now they want direct answers, do they? Concerned one of his packmates may answer, well, poorly, Trellus decides to take the conversation in a whole new direction. After all, if you're gonna get in trouble, you might as well go out in style.
"We have been recovering from our wounds," he answers flatly. "Wounds inflicted upon us by a cowardly pack who ambushed us as we freed the Fatales. A pack sent by someone in Rattledam. A pack that knew of our weaknesses and exploited them to their advantage. A pack that relied on poisonous blades to destroy us."
The blond man pauses, glancing at each of the members of the Council.
"A pack that failed."
Trellus pauses again, and then softens his tone, continuing, "We have spent many days in the Grass discussing among ourselves whether it was even safe to return to a Council that apparently desired our deaths. Knowing your power, we were confused by this act, and feared another would follow. But, we eventually understood that we must be mistaken. That surely that Pack, despite appearances, could not be a tool of the Council. Some other explanation, beyond our knowledge, must account for this."
"And so, we return, to tell you of our experience."
Tishe' d20=20 ; Tuesday May 6th, 2008 2:20:48 PM
The short woman's mouth drops open in astonishment and her brown eyes widen as she stares at Trellus. Yet the more she thinks on it, the more the mystic pulls her composure back together. "Very saavy move, Trellus", she whispers for her packmates, "you've either created a whole new pattern or warped the tapestry so much it can't get off the loom. Well, in for a piggie, in for a Sarg Moth..."
Tishe' thinks of the slaver ring that they escaped from after leaving the Fems, and the fact that there was evidence (uncollected, she sighs) that citizens of Rattledam and Hook City were visiting the slavers just as often as Baron's men. No, better to let the Council focus on one event at a time. After all, she could play that card if the Council turns hostile...
(ooc: what a waste of a nat 20!)
Yanosh Tuesday May 6th, 2008 4:11:36 PM
Yanosh Steps forward and stares at Galafar with unsheilded displeasure. "I am Yanosh Ironfist of Ice Peaks a village of the Ice Vein. I come from the clan Ironfist of the Scab Moutains in the Northen Continent." With his arms folded the Dwarven cleric states flatly and proudly from under his scarf covering.
Vayine Tuesday May 6th, 2008 7:20:12 PM
I am Vayine Di'telthorn of House Bralfah. My Home is in my Heart and with my Packmates but I was born in Dradah Delmah.
Rebuttal (DM JohnP) Tuesday May 6th, 2008 10:53:38 PM
Two of the new members of the Bloodpack introduce themselves and the clerk scibbles hurriedly. There's still time for the remaining newcomer to speak up ...
Trellus' words prompt a flurry of whispered conversation between the members of the Council. Even as they whisper, the Council members glance back and forth as if trying to determine which of their number, if any, might be guilty of what Trellus has suggested.
Tishe' whispers some commentary to her packmates, anticipating what might occur. She and the others don't wait very long. The woman monk is about to ask another question but stops when she sees a slight motion by the head of the Council. She stops, silent, as the Council head motions the clerks and other bystanders to leave the room. For a minute or so the only sound in the chamber is the quiet movement of shoes upon the floor and the swish of the clerks' robes as they walk quietly from the room. After the door thumps shut again, the Council head motions the woman forward. She steps up to the centre of the Council table as the Head quietly whispers to her. This continues for a minute or so before the woman turns back to the Bloodpack.
"Can you describe the evidence for your accusations?"
Grymash Wednesday May 7th, 2008 12:03:23 AM
A grin can be seen within the shadows of Grymash's hood after Trellus tells of the assassination attempt. He admiringly looks down at the blond cleric and wonders if orc-blood flows through his veins. He also ponders if the pack still has any of the treadle's gear.
Flea Wednesday May 7th, 2008 12:33:09 AM
Flea frowns when the woman issues her challenge. Then she gets an idea. Stepping forward, she draws up one side of her tunic. Pointing to a series of silvery scars criss crossing her side, she says, "there and there," then lowering the tunic and pulling the neck down to reveal more scars on her shoulder, she adds, "an' here. This is what 'Maria' and her buddy, 'Two-Swords' did."
Flea draws the cloth back up over her shoulder, and shrugs until the tunic sits better on her small frame. "I've still got some silver glass grass juice we took off one of 'em, too, but me an' Grymash, we drank the blue."
Tishe' thinks out loud while patting herself down on what physical evidence she would have that would be proof for the Council. "Candied Hoppers? Not unique. Wands? Used up. I wish Murdock and I kept that spellbook, now that is a unique item!" She shrugs and turns to address the Council, "I don't have any physical evidence that the Dark Pack attacked us. I can describe the attacks and weapons that Maria and her pack used, but that's about it." She will briefly describe the fighting abilities, hoping that more than Galafar will recognize the Dark Pack.
Tishe' whispers to Trellus, Grymash, and Flea, wishing with all her might that thier Dragon's Tears would be working once more. It would be so much easier for messages to go back and forth! "I don't want to name Malafret as the source of our information because it may get our only ally in trouble with the Council."
Olaf Wednesday May 7th, 2008 3:18:07 PM
Olaf curses himself for a fool, day-dreaming while in front of the fell lords of this metropolis. "Beggin' yer pardon my lady, I hight Olafr sik Tapelig, once Gredig's son, of Twin Tusks. I used ta believe in luck, but it is dead to me now." He pauses for a moment, then stamps his feet as if to get the blood back in them, and turns to the council member once more.
"As fer yer evidence, clear as flash-frozen ice it seems to me: this 'pack survived. Nay, they've flourished, in the harshest environs and against terrible odds. Honest and kind to a fault, they've been. If Trellus says a Dark Pack has been at work, why, it must have been so. Do you doubt his word? Or the rest of the 'pack?" He shakes his head in some frustration, then finishes: "Yer gonna accuse or yer gonna listen? Which'll it be?"
Trellus Wednesday May 7th, 2008 4:17:20 PM
The cleric's first response to the question of proof is to look to Malafret. He holds her eyes for a second or two, mentally pleading with her: You were there! You saw it all! SAY SOMETHING!
Trellus tears his gaze back to the questioner. "We have only some common items and their descriptions as Tishe has related," he admits. He nearly stops there, but after a heartbeat adds, "plus our word that it is so, as Olaf has said."
Yanosh Wednesday May 7th, 2008 8:00:09 PM
Still glaring at the members of this inquisition Yanosh speaks up. "It matters not what is said in the defence of this 'Pack. They will believe what they wish. There are forces here at work against the 'Pack. Forces that have a powerful head. A corrupt head. And corruption needs to be cut out before it can spread. I am but an outsider and even I can see that much." Disgusted by the way the council is accusing the 'Pack of misconduct Yanosh grows weary and justslightly upset. He silently wishes for his War Axe.
Vayine Wednesday May 7th, 2008 8:03:00 PM
Vayine thinks back on his past experiances, drawing on the terrible times of his youth, the incidences that caused his bro and himself to flee in exile to this strange land. stepping forward he looks around, not directly or as if making a challenge though.
"My lords and ladies, Since I have become a packmate the others have talked educated me on the history of this counsil, swearing me to not spread word of anything I witness. Trellus himself and others have talked of your wise rule, your concern for this city, and its population. I have come to cherish thoughts of finding a place to call home, one to protect, a haven for all those who seek a new life. I thought it was just a foolish dream but I have been mistaken in the past. Trellus speaks now for the good of this city, and it's people, not out of disrespect. I know that there are means at the disposal of those who know them, certain spells if you will. that will allow the used to disern the truth of anothers words. though I don't know the spell myself, nor would it do this situation anygood even if I did, I do think that I will help verify the truth behind this mans, this packs words."
Vayine speaks passionatly, then almost as if embarresed for getting carried away he moves to the back of the group.
Grymash Wednesday May 7th, 2008 9:44:07 PM
Grymash begins to rummage through one of his belt pouches. He mumbles as he searches. "hmmm, gry think maybe haves some of da dark packs teeth somewheres. hmmm, maybe uh finger bone."
Witnesses (DM JohnP) Wednesday May 7th, 2008 11:36:27 PM
The Bloodpack respond to the request for evidence in a variety of ways. Those who were there during the battle with the Dark Pack try to show physical evidence - scars, such as Flea reveals, or tokens like Grymashis searching for. Trellus and Tishe' do the same but also look to Malafret but see that the monk is not providing any help. In fact, Malafret seems to be avoiding Trellus' gaze as if the monk were uncomfortable about something. At least there is some satisfaction in seeing some Council member staring at Galafar as the 'Pack speaks.
Vayine has been around the longest of the newcomers and he suggests magical investigation. The two from Ice Vein, though, react to the accusations with vitriol. The vehement, aggressive tone of their responses makes most Council members frown and glare down at them. The Council Head, though, clears his throat before speaking in a disarmingly quiet tone.
"Please remind your new companions of the established rules of Conduct here in Rattledam. Being new to the Sargrass, they probably don't realize or appreciate the protection that the Council provides to the residents. Or what either exile, banishment ... or outlawry ... would mean to you and your families."
With that said, the Head Councillor motions to the woman monk asking the questions. She moves back to the small desk while the Head Councillor allows the Bloodpack to consider his veiled threat. Exile, the temporary or permanent expulsion of someone from Rattledam isn't too bad to consider. But banishment ... that usually involves entire families, usually for life. And being declared Outlaw would make them targets of every pack, slaver or adventurer who hears of the proclamation.
"If you have physical evidence, bring it forward. We will arrange for examination of it. You may have a Council member observe for you, if any would do so."
Flea d20+3=23 ; (New die rollers workin' for me!) Thursday May 8th, 2008 12:28:45 AM ...protection that the Council provides...
The colour rises in the gnomes face when she hears the Council Head. Where was the Council's protection when they were being hunted by the Darkpack? Flea bristles, at the implied threat of banishment.
The gnome decides to speak up. She chooses her words very carefully (Diplomacy=23). "Mistress, masters of the council..." she begins, "bringing physical evidence may mean bringing weapons and armaments into the domed city and trespassing on the laws of Rattledam. If the examiners wish to view the items taken from the Darkpack, a trip to the tunnels would be necessary." Flea takes a deep breath, "but this would only proove that we defeated those who attacked us, and confirm that they were of Rattledam. I ask you, what of the evidence of our own eyes? We saw the members of this pack. We have identified the Darkpack and their leader to you. The Fems can vouch for what we have told you. The proof of what we say is the absence of this traitorous group, who have been sent to the Shadowlands to await the judgement of the grey-eyed lord."
Grymash Thursday May 8th, 2008 3:03:39 AM
The robed half-orc grins a very toothy grin after Flea mentions his lord and the lands of shadow. "An da Master be judged themz... and woe be their fate." For a brief moment, Grymash looks disoriented, as if having lost his wits to the heat. However he shakes it off and continues his unnerving smile with grim satisfaction.
Trellus Thursday May 8th, 2008 9:37:39 AM
Trellus ducks his head once, mute acceptance of mulitple messages, and turns around to go to Yanosh and Olaf. He also rather conveniently has his back toward the Council.
"Warp down, dudes," he states in low, calm voice. "We need to play the game, and they overreact badly to implied threats. Think of it as a test. A test of patience, and ya gotta play. Gry's got it down. Just follow along for a bit, and we'll be done."
The cleric gives the two a grin and a wink, and continues his movement so as to meet up with Grymash. "You got any 'trophies' from the Dark Pack you can give these dudes?" he asks. "All I got is a bag of candied hoppers."
If the Council wants it, Trellus is happy to give them the bag.
Tishe' d20=11 ; Thursday May 8th, 2008 12:01:57 PM
The brown-eyed woman looks sad at seeing Malafret not speaking, but then she glances at the seething Galafar at the other end of the table. "The beater Galafar is also keeping silent", she whispers to the others, "that may be a good sign that we're not judged yet."
"Alas, I have only a single bag of candied hoppers and my memory to provide as evidence that the Dark Pack attacked us and were slain by the Bloodpack." she respectfuly tells the Council Head. "I am willing to be questioned under spell as to the veracity of our statements. Perhaps a recess for one who is powerful in Pantheon to contact the departed souls of Maria and the others would also gain more information."
She hopes to divert the Council's attention from the young Fempack as well as distance that pack from the Bloodpack so they are also not judged by association. "The Fem Fatales would have seen nothing but the aftermath of the battle, for they were ensorcelled. The Bloodpack broke the spell upon them and the good Councilwoman, Malafret, allowing thier return and continued usefulness to Rattledam. And we ourselves have freely returned. Does not this demonstrate our continued loyalty to Rattledam and the protection of the Sargrass?" (Diplomacy: 11)
Guileless, Tishe' hopes the leaders of the Council can see the wisdom in thier words.
Yanosh Thursday May 8th, 2008 1:22:27 PM
Once again the Dwarf has jumped to the wrong path. Force is not always the answer. Hearing Trellus's words yanosh sees that he is bitting at the lure of the council. Aggresion will only prove that the 'Pack is out of control and needs punishment. This he does not wish to bring to them.
Silently he bows to Trellus and touches his arm, then steps back. The mists swirl around him as he silently cast a spell on Trellus that should help their situation.
DM and Trellus Highlight to display spoiler: { Spell cast Guidance This spell imbues the subject with a touch of divine guidance. The creature gets a +1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. It must choose to use the bonus before making the roll to which it applies.
Spells prepared Level 0 Guidance*, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Olaf Thursday May 8th, 2008 2:28:51 PM
Chastized by their intrepid leader, Olaf bites his lip, and his posture sags as he ponders a course of action. His words stumble forward, taking a contrite tone: "Beggin' yer pardon, Council Members. This pack here's a good'un, is all I'm thinkin'. Is there naught ya can do to appease yer doubts, beyond travellin' wit us to see th'equipment o' them Dark Pack?"
Vayine Thursday May 8th, 2008 3:49:30 PM
Vayine, used to the politics of the royal courts, and family rulings of his youth, manages to keep calm. listening to the sublte implications of each of the monks sitting before the group. Having been warned not to stare or look at the monks, he trys to keep his head high but not focusing his eyes on the monks. he instead watches his companions.
Grymash Thursday May 8th, 2008 9:23:25 PM
Grymash tries his best to remember if he took a trophy from the fight. He likely did take a keepsake, but he doesn't seem able to find it. Damned his luck! An item that could prove their words and no where to be found. Just like the Fem Fetals. They could speak of the fight, but they aren't here. Taken from us like a thief too! His eyes suddenly widen with the realization. Maybe they were delivered to the enemy like he was when just a cub. Never expected to return, to keep secret of what they saw. A tactic Galafar knows all too well. Understanding the gravity of their situation, Grymash tries his best to keep his fury in check. He wants to glare at that monster. To take his ax and cut the treadle down where he sat. An act that would surely bring his own death. However it would be a death most glorious. To escort Galafar before Gargul himself and have him answer for his crimes. To stand and witness his judgment. Gargul would be most pleased. Yesss, the council halls would flow red with their blood.
His fingers flex and tighten into fists. Nothing would please him more than to become awash in Galafar's blood. To watch the light in his wretched eyes dim into nothingness. However, his pack would pay for his act of holy retribution. He curses to himself. The beast is always hiding among his flock. This is not the time or place. Trellus must be told.
Placing his hand on Trellus' shoulder, a gesture of support to others, carries a hidden message through his dragon's tear. "Gry fear for Fem lives! Fem's maybe given to da enemy!! Stalked by nuther Dark Pack. Ta quiet da Fem's words of whut eyes see!!"
Adjournment (DM JohnP) Thursday May 8th, 2008 11:01:53 PM
The Council Head looks down at the table when Flea and some of the other Bloodpack members mention the Femmes. He seems about to say something but stops and motions to the other Council members. The Council members at the ends of the table, including Malafret, stand and move closer to the Head. Malafret quickly glances at the Bloodpack and a fleeting frown of worry shows on her face. The Council have a hushed conversation before the Council Head motions everyone back to their seats.
"There will be an adjournment in these proceedings. Since you have volunteered to be magically examined, we will make arrangements to do so."
"At this time, there is no need to bring any weapons or other items that you claim to have taken from this Dark Pack into Rattledam. We would summon and question the Femme Fatales if they were in Rattledam. Unfortunately, they are on a mission for the Council."
"You will be escorted back to the rooms where you waited before. You will be summoned when arrangements have been made for magical examination."
After making that pronouncement, the Council Head stands moves towards the door behind the table. Th other Councillors stand and follow him out. Again, Malafret glances at the Bloodpack and quickly shakes her head. Those who a keen-eyed may figure out what she is trying to communicate. Sense Motive DC 15 - Highlight to display spoiler: {She seems to be trying to tell the Bloodpack to cooperate ... for now, at least.}
The woman who has been questionning the Bloodpack stands up and moves to the door. After knocking, she opens it to summon the monks who had escorted the Bloodpack to the Council chambers. The monks file in and the woman motions for the Bloodpack to leave for the waiting room.
Trellus d20+7=18 ; Friday May 9th, 2008 9:52:59 AM
Trellus' lips tighten as Grymash relays his message. He hadn't thought of THAT possibility. The cleric nods as his eyes flick to regard the huddled Council. "Can't do nothing till we get out of here," he notes softly to the barbarian.
The Council Head makes his statement, and Malafret meets his eye. [Sense Motive 18]
Again, Trellus ducks his head, acknowledging two messages with one movement.
The blond man turns, and gives the pack a "c'mon" motion with a flick of his head. Maintaining an emotionless facade, he wordlessly follows the escorts.
Tishe' d20+10=26 ; Friday May 9th, 2008 1:35:28 PM
Oblivious to nuances, Tishe' takes the words at face value and retires back to the waiting chamber.
When there, she looks around at Olaf, Yanosh, and Vayine and pretends to look them over critically. "You know," she begins, "the Council sees all of us as the Bloodpack now, yet there are some who do not quite fit in yet. While only contacting Grand Maw can do something about getting a Dragon's Tear for Olaf and Yanosh, perhaps we can make you look the part a little more."
Pulling a spare green cloth, her knife, and some needle and thread, Tishe' spreads the stuff on a clean spot and sits tailor fashion before it. Holding the cloth, she concentrates (Hook City Cantrip) and the green color ripples into a deep red identical to the sash given to her from Grymash. Cutting the cloth, Tishe' expertly reworks them into three sashes (Weaving:26), and presents them to Trellus.
"I think our companions should be looking the part of Bloodpack." she tells thier leader.
Yanosh Friday May 9th, 2008 1:56:40 PM
Obediantly the Dwarven Cleric follows out the door. Mists swirl around him as he walks . Furry flares in his eyes but he holds himself in check.
DM Highlight to display spoiler: { Spell cast Guidance
Spells prepared Level 0 Guidance*, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Grymash Friday May 9th, 2008 9:53:57 PM
Deep in his own thoughts, the utterance of his beloved, Grand Maw, brings his attention back to the surface. "Grand Maw ... do she be here?!" Grymash looks wildly around. Not seeing her, he turns to his Bloodpack. Wondering who said her name. With a sigh and an irritable grunt, Grymash turns his gaze to the heavens, as if he could see through the ceiling. Sadness creeps over him. He doesn't like it, it makes him angry. It makes him feel so weak to need someone so much. With her, Grymash felt as strong as an entire war party of orcs. With her there would be no end to his savagery. With her, no one could stand against him. With her, they could paint the Wold red with the blood of every man, orc or beast that dared stand before them. He misses her claws raking against his back, how she would gnaw on his neck and ears. Her cold-blooded body felt like heaven to hold and wrestle to the ground. Afterward exhausted and bloodied, we would lick each others wounds. "Oh, Gry gotta haves Grand Maw!"
With all the concentration he can muster, he sends out a message through his dragon's tear. With his spoken draconic, he says, "Grand Maw, mine loves. Grymash miss you deadly."
Back to the Waiting Room (DM JohnP) Sunday May 11th, 2008 1:09:07 AM
The Bloodpack walk back to the waiting room, wondering exactly what is going on with the Council. And their benefactor, Malafret. Something must be preventing her from assisting them is what most of the Bloodpack seem to be thinking.
Once they are back in the room, Tishe' prepares some sashes to recognize the adoption of Vayine, Olaf and Yanosh into the Bloodpack. They are still missing the Dragon Tears but the Council seems to have accepted that the Bloodpack has new members. The mention of the Tear's prompts Grymash to mourn the lack of contact with Grand Maw.
Eventually some monks bring in more food and water for the Bloodpack. The food is plain ... steamed and baked tubers from some type of grass, nothing much to talk about ... but it does provide some relief from the boredom. Not long after that, the woman monk opens the door and motions for everyone to follow. Once the Bloodpack get to the their feet, the woman leads them through the corridors of the Temple of Pantheon. The trip back to the Council chambers is becoming familiar, to the point that a guide isn't necessary. Except, of course, to remind everyone of their uncertain status.
Instead of entering the chambers, the woman simply motions for the guards to open the heavy doors and motions the Bloodpack to enter. Inside, the 'Pack can see the Councillors standing in front of the table but no guards or other functionaries are in the room. After the last of the 'Pack has entered, the heavy doors swing shut and the Councillors move towards one of the doors in the far wall. Both Galafar and Malafret are in the group but it is the Chief Councilor who beckons them forward.
"We are going to an inner chamber where a great artifact of Pantheon resides. It is entrusted to us for this type of occasion. You will be questioned again and, I warn you, any prevarication will be treated most painfully. Or, if you wish to avoid any unpleasantness, you can simply recant your testimony now."
"Which do you choose?"
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday May 12th, 2008 4:10:14 AM
Report will be here tomorrow. Today's a holiday in Belgium and the weather is excellent!! Enjoy the day everyone.
Olaf Monday May 12th, 2008 6:37:39 AM
He reverently puts the red sash on, and stammers, "I'm thinkin' that's a rare 'um. Me thanks ta ya." Olaf's eyes tear up slightly at Tishe's gesture. He has been a long time without family. He quickly turns away.
When the food arrives, he attempts to hold back to let the others of the pack show him the way of eating here in Rattledam, but eventually hunger wins over, and he devours several of the tubers. "Hrm. Kinda tangy."
After their return to the chamber, Olaf's response is just to nod. He has no need to lie to these schemers.
Trellus Monday May 12th, 2008 2:31:42 PM
In the waiting area, Trellus accepts the three blood red sashes from Tishe with a grin. "Totally waxed pick you got there," he compliments her.
He takes each sash and ties it around the waists of Yanosh, Olaf, and Vayine. "I can't remember if I've said this before, but welcome to the Bloodpack," he remarks. "We've all been outcasts in one form or another, but within this pack we're a family. I'll stand with every one of you."
The brief ceremony concluded, the cleric turns his thoughts to the events to come. "I'm not sure how deep they'll be able to read into our minds with whatever spells they got," he says. "For sure, lying will be spotted instantly. I don't know what they're gonna ask us, but if you can avoid thinking about certain topics, maybe we can keep the focus on the Dark Pack."
The escorts return, and Trellus goes back to Council with the Bloodpack.
"I have said nothing I wish to recant," he replies neutrally.
Yanosh Monday May 12th, 2008 2:51:16 PM
Yanosh accepts the sash with a slight tear in his eyes. Once again he is accepted without comment against his looks. But then again these have not really seen his face yet. Tishe' and flea may have in the Giggling Ghost, but he cant seem to remeber. Nodding his thanks to Trellus and Tishe' and the rest of the 'Pack, Yanosh turns to a silent place in the room to contemplate what has been happening to him latly.
When they are escorted back to the council chambers Yanosh remains passive and silent.
Grymash Monday May 12th, 2008 8:38:36 PM "Da council no haves da stomach ta looks at Gry thinkin', hee hee! If thays wants ta look, Gry wills show themz blood an bone da mostest gory!" In fact, Grymash thinks the whole thing rather amusing. Humans don't have the stomach for such things. At least not most.
Grymash continues to chuckle as he scoops up more tubers with his favorite spoon. "Pantheon art, bah! Gry eats wit god art every days!" he mutters. He took the spoon from Alemi's dinner table. Wasn't that a dream?! He remembers it like a dream, yet there was, the spoon in his pack the next morning. It wasn't the only thing. There was a chest of gold (which he shared), a dragon's fang and a fresh set of scars. That was some dream. The spoon is quite beautiful, though orcs rarely appreciate such things. However, food just seems to taste a little better with it. He wishes he had a place setting piece from each god. A plate from Domi, a bowl from Flower, a skull-shaped cup from Gargul. Heck, maybe the Pantheon artifact that the monk was talking about is a dinner knife. That would be fortunate. Maybe he could swipe it when they weren't looking.
Tishe' Monday May 12th, 2008 9:45:31 PM
Tishe' smiles warmly as the others accept the sashes, and breaks into a grin at Trellus' compliment. "Everyone born in Hook City is born with the ability to work one minor magic. My sisters and I all happen to have cantrips that aid in the cloth trade." Her smile becomes less bright, "Mother was so proud."
When the monk finally comes back, the curiosity of finally hearing about an artifact that Pantheon has left with the monks of Rattledam make her more excited than apprehensive. "I am ready to be questioned about anything dealing with our last mission.", she says.
Flea Monday May 12th, 2008 11:00:03 PM
The rogue isn't crazy about letting someone into her mind, not after her weird encounter with one of the stranger of the clerks at that wonderful emporium known as the Catacombs.
"I've got nothin' to hide!" she chimes in after her friends, hoping that its the truth.
Vayine Monday May 12th, 2008 11:16:27 PM
Vayine thanks Tishe' and Trellus for the sash. "has this ever happened to the pack before? this kind of questioning? Is there anything that I can do to aid or help you in this?"
Magical Interrogation (DM JohnP) Tuesday May 13th, 2008 12:35:13 AM
After accepting the conditions, the Bloodpack is led through the doors. A small landing is just beyond the doors and a set of stairs descends into the earth. Flickering orange and purple flames gutter from twists of grass stuck in brackets along the wall. The flames provide enough light to show that the stairs lead below the temple, possibly near the deepest levels that the natives of Rattledam have ever heard of anyone exploring. Of course, this is nothing unusual for the dwarf and drow that have recently joined the Bloodpack.
As they descend, the Bloodpack wonders exactly what they will face. After some time a dim glow can be seen below, beyond the bottom of the stairwell. Once they reach the bottom steps, the Bloodpack realize that the dim light is coming from a glowing crystal that is suspended in the middle of a chamber. Actually, on closer examination, the keen-eyed members of the 'Pack see that the crystal is mounted on a metal shaft so that it would form the head of an axe or hammer. And, more importantly, they can see no signs of how the crystal hammer is suspended in the air. Long, dark shadows move across the walls of the chamber as the members of the Council move around. Once they arrive at what seem to be predetermined points, the Chief Councillor speaks.
"You will move into the centre of the chamber, below Pantheon's Gavel. Once you are in position, you will be asked the same questions again. Do not hesitate for you have all accepted this judgement."
The Council wait quietly, expecting that the Bloodpack will submit to the ritual questioning. As each person moves under the Gavel, they can feel some ... thing ... or things ... happen. Magic, certainly, but of a scale and finesse not normally practiced by mortals. Later, when give a chance to discuss the examination, the Bloodpack would agree that the sensation was similar to standing in front of a formless, shifting and critical crowd ... being constantly and intensely examined by a multitude of observers, with consequences far beyond simple embarrassment if they should be found wanting.
And the questioning begins again when the Head Councillor instructs them to relate their stories again.
"Describe this Dark Pack and any evidence against them, or anyone in Rattledam."
"Explain why your return to Rattledam was delayed."
"Have you encountered any creatures that you would describe as twisted by magic?"
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Tuesday May 13th, 2008 1:09:19 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of May 5 - May 11
Once the doors fall shut behind the Bloopack the council starts their enquieries. The newcomers, Vayine, Olaf and Yanosh are asked names and origin. The rest of the pack is asked for their actions since they last visited the Council.
All goes well untill Trellus reveals the attack by the Dark Pack and his thought that the Dark Pack was sent by the Council... A flurry of whispered conversation starts between the members of the Council. Bystanders and clerics are asked to leave so the Council can speak directly with the Bloodpack...
Much to the Bloodpack's astonishment Galafar keeps his silence... A good sign or ... Perhaps he's brooding on another foul plan... But like Galafar Malafret also holds her tongue! She, who could possibly give the best evidence for the Bloodpack's honor, stays in the back not saying a word... only a gentle nod suggesting the Pack to cooperate is all they get...
At the end of this first interrogation the Pack is again escorted to the waiting room while the Council prepares everything for a second interrogation... This time under magical spells...
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Olaf Tuesday May 13th, 2008 7:11:51 AM
Olaf restates his name, "Olafr sik Tapelig, of Twin Tusks" and waits for the others to give their testimony. He notes, "all I can add is that there be plenty o' twisted types to someone new to the area---like them Rapke's. Ne'er seen 'em 'fore."
Yanosh Tuesday May 13th, 2008 3:58:14 PM
Yanosh steps forward when his turn comes. "I am Yanosh Ironfist of Ice Peaks in the Ice Vein. I am of the Ironfist clan of the Scab Mountains. Everything in the Sargrass is twisted to me. I do not know what is not twisted here." After he speaks the Dwarven Cleric steps back. He has spoken the truth just as Trellus has asked.
Tishe' d20+12=16 ; Tuesday May 13th, 2008 7:07:44 PM
Serenely, Tishe' steps forward towards Pantheon's Gavel, but pauses and turns to look at Tacia. "Stay", she commands (Handle Animal: 16), and then she moves to stand underneath the artifact.
And then there seems to be hundreds, thousands, millions of ... of... of beings sitting in judgement upon her every word. That everything she will say will be wieghed and placed on the scales and determined truth. It is daunting, for she recalls sitting at the fire at home and listening to Mother tell of the Panthenon whose eyes are like a starry sky and will provide everyone just what they deserve. Standing here under this Gavel, Tishe's thoughts flicker. What she deserves may NOT be what she THINKS she deserves! But the questions come and she must answer...
"Describe this Dark Pack and any evidence against them, or anyone in Rattledam."
Tishe' describes as best she can the Dark Pack, thier features, weapons, and actions. She tells of how they offered the Bloodpack the chance to move away and let the Dark Pack slay the druids. Tishe' reminds the listening crowd of the oath each pack takes when leaving the safety of Rattledam; "the land, my life", and how the Bloodpack could see they had to defend the druids from execution. She then tells the millions of listeners how the deaths of the druids would have left the Fem Pack and Malafret in thier stoney prison and how it would have started a war between the druids and the monks, and how the Barons would just laugh up thier ugly sleeves at that!
Tishe' then states that it was Malafret who told the Bloodpack that the Dark Pack was Galafar's specialized assassins. That the Dark Pack had orders to kill the druids and any who stood in thier way. How this was likely as the Dark Pack killed a grass ship and its entire crew, and tried to kill the Bloodpack in order to murder for Galafar. "I think Galafar the monk has some explaining to do under Pantheon's Gavel", she suggests to the watching crowd.
"Explain why your return to Rattledam was delayed."
"We were afraid of reprisal from the Council for slaying another Pack", she explains to the Gavel. "We are helping the Sargrass, keeping safe those people who have not the means to defend themselves. If the Council were to have erased our memories, we felt we could not perform our duties as effectively."
"Have you encountered any creatures that you would describe as twisted by magic?"
"Yes, and I'm assuming you are not talking of Ebyron's Avatar or the Oglians that we encountered before ever going after the FemPack." Tishe' goes to describe the strange Rapke that attacked before they found the druids, and the worm-creature that held giant spiders, humans, and Rapke in thrall in a web-like den.
She stands under the Gavel, knowing that everything that she said was true, and that she answered acurately those questions put to her. A moment of doubt crosses her mind, for though everything she said was true and she didn't NOT answer a question, she has left some things out: the Slaver Pits, the continuing dialogue with the druids, and the planned use for Bloodholme. Will the watchers feel her omissions? She does not know.
Grymash d20-2=5 ; d20-2=10 ; Tuesday May 13th, 2008 9:43:02 PM
Grymash takes his place under the gavel and recalls all he can remember (Int check 5).
"Gry no can lie. Not only Pantheon hammer, but alsos Lord Gargul command truths be said from Gry mouth. Manys life cut short, manys deaths comes too soon an stand befores Lord Gargul. Lord Gargul demand judgment to da one who make warp to da great circle of life an death. Ta make dead a life befores its time is ta kill uh world of life dat be meant ta come. Thays all cry for judgment.
Every thing dat Tishe says be true. Blood Pack fought da Dark Pack to da death. Gry remembers human female wit swords. Gry remembers warrior wit uh double sword, likes Gry double ax, but sword. Gry cuts dat warrior down. Cut in twos. Da hot blood taste salty sweet. Gry guess da treadle dranks glass grass and candies da nite befores. Da creepers fed on dat one more quick than da others. Gry remember others. Uh spiked ball on chain. Nuther one shot arrows. Hee hee, Gry arrows be bigger! Bad trade for him, hee hee! OHH, Gry remembers. Gry do take prize from themz. Gry wears boots from themz!! Magik boots!
"Gry remembers (Int 10) da warped rapke an human things, da giant spider. If no cut off da heads, thays get up when ya cuts themz down. Make Gry mad many times. When ya cut somethin' down, thays supost'a stay down! Da warped treadles be cursed an Gry take no prize from themz. Curse on da land they be. Ax for hands, twisted an bad formed. Blood black an stanky, likes da ground be under an old dead corpses. No gute burial, likes da walkin' dead. Bloodpack cut the treads an end da curses. An Gargul be pleased."
Grymash continues, "Gry also think Galafar need ta talk of dis befores da Pantheon hammer," agreeing with Tishe. Long history Galafar have wit deals in da dark. Likes da time when Galafar gives Gry over to da orc raiders when Gry be uh cub. Yooz no think Gry remembers, but Gry do! IF Gry tells lie, Pantheon can strike Gry dead. No matter. Gargul welcome Gry wit honor. Serve Gargul gute, most favored be Gry."
Trellus Tuesday May 13th, 2008 10:14:59 PM
Trellus listens carefully to Tishe and Grymash. The blond man nods in places, a small grin playing on his lips.
"My testimony merely echoes Grymash and Tishe," he says. "They have said everything I would have."
Under the Hammer (DM JohnP)
Tuesday May 13th, 2008 11:40:10 PM
The Bloodpack bravely responds to the questions asked of them, not hesitating for a moment despite the unknown threat posed by Pantheon's Gavel slowly spinning above them. The newcomers from Ice Vein, Olaf and Yanosh, merely relate their names and backgrounds as before. As the two speak, the other members of the 'Pack can see lights sparkling within the depths of the crystal head of the Gavel. Each of them both have the sensation of beign subject to intense scrutiny while they speak.
Then Tishe' speaks, relating everything that she can recall about the Bloodpack's activities since the battle with the Dark Pack. The magical scrutiny is intense and the Gavel almost sparkles with light as the theurge speaks. But, as far as any of the Bloodpack can tell, nothing happens so the Gavel must have accepted Tishe's words as truth. It seems that the artifact, if that is what the Gavel is, simply evaluates truthfulness and it is up to the mortal interrogators of Rattledam Council to ask the correct questions.
When Grymash speaks, the crystal dims and flares occasionally. Despite the provocation in the half-orc's speech, the Gavel does not react. Even to what is truth only in Grymash's mind, apparently. Finally, Trellus confirms that his companions have spoken for him.
The Bloodpack has been watching the Council as they spoke. The Head Councillor frowns when Grymash accuses Galafar while the Bloodpack's antagonist glares at the half-orc. Galafar seems ready, almost, to speak but stops himself. While this is occurring, Flea and the others notice that Malafret seems subdued or, perhaps, fearful. It is quick conjecture to assume that their benefactor fears that her activities may be inadvertently betrayed.
Once they have finished responding to his questions, the Head Councillor speaks once more.
"You were to answer my questions, not accuse any Councillor of real or imagined wrongdoings from the distant past. The Council has, individually and as a group, sworn oaths on the Gavel to protect and preserve Rattledam and act in accordance with those oaths. Even though they may not know the reasons, citizens of Rattledam must accept that the Council is acting in the best interests of the city and them. There is one final question, before you step from under the Gavel."
"Who do you serve, now? Are that oaths to serve Rattledame that you, and your predecessors, swore as a Pack truly still what guide your actions?"
Trellus endures the standard "Don't question the monks" diatribe with practiced patience. He's heard it so often it barely even registers anymore.
The "final" question is asked, and the cleric is quick to respond.
"I have sworn but two oaths," he replies, gazing levelly at the Council Head. "One to the Protector, Domi, and one to the Land. 'Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki'. 'The Land, My Life'. By those oaths, I serve Domi and the Land."
The blond man pauses a moment, before continuing. "I truly love Rattledam. It is my home, and the home of my familiy for three generations. I would protect her, and her people, for they are also of the Land."
The cleric stops there, waiting to see how the Council reacts to what he hasn't said.
Grymash (Guidance) d20+1=4 ; d20+1=21 ; Wednesday May 14th, 2008 11:02:34 AM
Real or imagined, what does these beaters mean by this? Grymash remembers seeing Galafar in the distance talking to the orc as he was being tied and dragged off by the others. Now these treadles ask of the Bloodpacks loyalty! Where is their loyalty to us? His teeth grind under his lips. His eyes become bloodshot with anger. Why do they question us this way. What have we done to earn so much distrust. The difference between the council and the orc horde doesn't seem so much like night and day anymore. Such lack of honor and trust, especially when Grymash and his Bloodpack have put their lives on the line so many countless times. Is this the wage of all they've done for Rattledam.
Grymash's hands begin to shake as his blood boils with adrenaline. No no no! This is not the place. He closes his eyes and breathes in slowly through his snout. "Lord Gargul, help Grymash. I serve yooz wit me life an death. Give strength, not for battle but fors controls wit anger an dark thinkin'. Cool Gry's blood. Gives Gry da words. Da words for da council ta see and understand." (Casting Guidance: +1 to attack, save or skill check))
Grymash calms as best he can and steps forward. His voice more controlled and calm. A tone deep and thoughtful to those who wish to listen. (Diplomacy 4, hero point 21, natural 20) "First Gry mus say dat Gry be uh servant ta Lord Gargul first. No one come before Lord Gargul. Whut kind of cleric would Gry be if not dat? Lord Gargul know da purpose of Gry's life an Gry, uhh... deevoted life an soul to its. Next, Gry's luv belong ta mate, Grand Maw. She show Gry there be mores than just battle an blood. Gry would cut out own heart an gives ta her if asked ... Gry heart belongs ta Grand Maw. Gry be loyal to da Bloodpack. Thays be Gry friends an will die many deaths for thems if need be. Whatever left, Rattledam can have."
"Lord Gargul, Grand Maw an Blood Pack haves never failed Gry. An Blood pack never failed Rattledam. Though Rattledam have failed Gry. Real or Imagined, who evers da cause, Gry was ah slave of da orc horde. Gry be born under dis dome, but me ended up wit thems. Where be da protection Gry be promised. Gry was just ah cub!"
"Da orc horde haves no nice for da half-breeds or to da other slaves. Thays work slaves nite an days under da whip an chain. When fall to exhaust, thays beat ya till bloodied. No honor, no name, thays piss on ya wounds and laugh as ya try an fights off da creepers. Brutal be orcs only joy. Only da strong survive, only da mostest brute live. An Gry be ashamed of whut me had ta do ta live. Gry fight in da pit. Kill other slaves he call friend. Only ways ta git meat, either feed on fallen or whatever meat da brutes would spit down ta Gry. Only way ta live. No life for da grass biter. Best git ah taste for blood. No words can speak of da dark Gry fall into. Like uh pit so deep, ya can no see da top.Then da day came when da great Eye found Gry an deliver Gry backs froms da madness of savage ways. An after time, back ta Rattledam."
"Gry still fights wit dat darkness. An evil dat no words can say. Only light froms Lord Gargul keep dat dark away. Gry be lucky. No everyone be dat gute wit luck. That why Gry no want anyone else ta be trapped in dat dark. No one of Gry friends or anyone born of Rattledam. No one deserve dat fate. No one, no even ..." Grymash darts a quick glance to Galafar, but doesnt finish his sentence. "Dat be where Gry loyalty come froms. An Gry be loyal ta Rattledam. Bloodpack too."
In conclusion, "Da Bloodpack be nuthin but loyal ta Rattledam. Bloodpack put life on line wit every task da Council send pack on. Bloodpack do whut is asked. Weez fight da gute fight. Weez fight da orcs, herds of rapke an bounders. Look Barons in da eye an cut thems down in bloody combat. Weez travel ta far off lands. Places where water goes far as eye can see. Places where water be hard as rock an cold ta touch. Place where da cold bite da flesh an choke da air from da chest. Bloodpack stood befores gods an demons alike, an weez live ta return ta Rattledam. Bloodpack prove loyalty every day, yet Council no trust, call Bloodpack liars. Herd us around town an da halls like piggies, make threats of pain an banish. Bloodpack have show da proof of loyalty an honor wit our works. Only question be now... where da Council's loyalty an honor be. When do weez start bein' brothers an not da slave?"
Yanosh Wednesday May 14th, 2008 3:38:46 PM
Stunned that they would even ask the Dwarven outsider of his loyalties. Waiting untill last Yanosh steps forward. Looking out at the assembled mass he slowly speaks, "Remember YOU asked this of me. My loyalties lay first to My Lord Gargul to him we ALL will answer. As Gry has said the Lord Gargul demands truth from those that follow him. After Lord Gargul come my 'Pack. To them I will gladly die to defend. Then my Villiage Ice Peaks and my Clan. Last is the Wold itself. I have no ties to Rattledam but through my 'Pack. Remember you asked this of me."
As I have said before, I am Vayine Di'telthorn of House Bralfah. My Home is in my Heart and as I walk this Land, I find my heart is at home here. I have sworn the oath of the Pack, to my new brothers and sisters that they themselves have sworn. I swore this to them and to myself.
As I am unable to and unwilling to speak falsehoods. I feel that it is right that I tell speak on behalf of my pack. I have not run with the pack for long but I have come to trust these people that you see before you with the most precious thing I can offer, and that my lords and ladies, is my life. I would do as asked, even if it meant sacrificing myself for my mates because I know that they strive to keep this land, this city and these people safe. That is why I run with this pack, and why I feel I should speak these words before you.
Vayine hopes that his honest words will reach at least a few ears amoung the many that he assumes are listening. and prays to what ever gods are listening that wisdom prevails upon those listening to seek justice on those who wished to harm his pack.
Olaf Wednesday May 14th, 2008 5:56:21 PM
Olaf echoes the comments of his companions. "I'm a new 'un to these lands, it's true. My allegiance is to friends and their family. Rattledam seems to be the extended family of the 'pack---thus, it'll be my family too, I'm thinkin'. Not much else to say, really."
Tishe' Wednesday May 14th, 2008 6:29:08 PM
"There has only been one oath I have ever taken, Gentles", Tishe' responds to the question while being very conscious of the Gavel and the multitude of 'listeners' about her. "Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki: the Land, My Life. I stand by my oath freely and without reservation, to support the land and the good people who dwell here."
The simple answer done, Tishe' will move away from the Gavel.
Flea Wednesday May 14th, 2008 7:42:24 PM
Flea makes a fist with one hand, and clasping the other over it, covers her heart -"Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki-The Land, My Life," she repeats, thinking about the concentric circles of protectors that make up the security of Rattledam, and the Sargrass Plains, and wondering just where the monks fit in.
Black or white?
The rogue thinks about how she will work with her pack to protect the ordinary folks of the domed city, the natural creatures of the plains, and the crazy little dark Manfri dudes that live in the tall grass. There is a secret little niggly doubt in her heart, though. What if the monks were to ask...nay, command the pack to do something that seems truly bad? Like what Galafar had sent the Darkpack to do?
The Pronouncement (DM JohnP) Thursday May 15th, 2008 12:06:06 AM
The Bloodpack make their careful declarations and prepare to move out from under the Gavel. As they spoke, the crystal head continued to spark and flare but nothing happened. Of course, there is the possibility that those skilled in magical lore ... perhaps some Councillors ... might be able to understand and interpret the pattern and colours of light. If so, none of the Councillors make any statements about the veracity of their statements. Instead, the Bloodpack is allowed to silently contemplate their fate. Finally, the Head Councillor speaks.
"Yanosh, Olaf and Vayine ... you have recently joined this pack. Your words are considered and well-spoken. But you do not know the history of Rattledam and what the Council does for Rattledam."
"You others - you swore your oaths directly to Rattledam. Your words were truthful, as you know it, but were also very carefully said. The only conclusion that we can draw is that while you have not broken your oaths or become foresworn, your loyalty and obedience is doubtful. If you are to continue serving the Council, your loyalty and obedience must be ensured. The Council will debate that matter in private."
"You are free to go, but stay within Rattledam. You will be summoned again when the Council has reached a conclusion."
The Council remain in their places, clearly waiting for the Bloodpack to leave the chamber. Malafret glances at them, worry evident on her face. Galafar ... it's difficult to tell. Certainly the monk was glowering at Grymash while the half-orc spoke but now almost seems to be gloating. If Galafar is involved in the decision, there could be any number of horrible ways that the Council could guarantee the loyalty of the Bloodpack.
The woman monk reappears, motioning for the Bloodpack to ascend the stairs to the commonly used levels of the Temple of Pantheon. As they climb, the Bloodpack cannot help but ponder their fate. At the top of the stairs, the woman monk leads the Bloodpack to the entrance of the Temple.
"Go where you will, but remember the Council's command. You are to remain within Rattledam."
Grymash Thursday May 15th, 2008 12:33:55 AM
Once the monk leaves the Bloodpack to themselves at the temple's entrance he cant help but say, "Ya know, Gry no think Galafar likes Gry too much!" Grymash hopes his little attempt at humor helps lighten the tension. After a short pause, "Galafart has somethin' in da works. Weez need ta be on guard, Gry think. Maybe Gry need ta read da bones. Gry gots dat feelin' in da gut, ah fight be nears. Whut yalls thinkin'?"
Tishe' d20+13=27 ; d4=2 ; d20+14=23 ; Thursday May 15th, 2008 12:14:15 PM
Tishe' belatedly wonders if SHE can read the scinillations of the Gavel, and when her packmates are questioned, looks for patterns to figure it out. (Spellcraft: 27, Know Arcana:23)
Again, she carefully doesn't say too much until the Bloodpack is released and allowed to congregate back at Trellus' parents' house. "It doesn't look like the Beaters trust us much", she comments. "Well, the pick is mutual. Blind obediance is fine if you are a loom or spinning wheel, but..." she doesn't finish her sentence, only shakes her head.
Tishe' uses the time to again be with Tacia, and continues to train her companion on other tricks besides "stay"
Yanosh Thursday May 15th, 2008 2:23:37 PM
"I think your right Gry. I think we need to be ready incase they try another attempt against the Pack." Yanosh rubs his scarred chin. "I think I need to pay a visit to a temple of Gargul if there is one."
Vayine Thursday May 15th, 2008 3:39:16 PM
I'm getting the same feeling as well. I think it might be smart to talk to Trellus's family again and see if we can convince them to leave the area. but I can't help but wonder if this is indeed a test. if we run, or act poorly, we prove that we are acting on our own, and that we have loyalties to others outside of this city. we must tread carefully on this trail of ice as it were. on wrong step could shatter the world you know.
Trellus Thursday May 15th, 2008 5:16:13 PM
Trellus gives Grymash a playful punch in the shoulder. "Gee Gry, why would you think that?" he chuckles.
As the group starts back for his home, the blond man hesitates. "Dudes, let's see if Gilan's place is still open," he suggests. "I'd like to keep my folks clear if I can." He leads the pack off in a slightly different direction, making for the small one-roomer Gilan lived in by himself for several years now. With luck, no one has claimed it. If they have, he'll reluctantly go back to his parent's home.
The discussion regarding what may happen swirls around him. "I don't think they'll just up and attack us," he muses. "They're more interested in guaranteeing our loyalty right now then eliminating a threat. My guess is we'll get called back tomorrow and told to take another oath, one that leaves no wiggle room."
He rubs the back of his head as he contemplates the future.
"Which we'll refuse to take. THEN it'll get totally twisted."
<sigh>
"OK, tomorrow, me an' Gry will try some divinations. Yanosh, if you're in with Gargul, you can try too. I'm not sure if we're better off standing up to them, or moving on right now. I need to see if Domi can help me see better." He nods to Vayine. "In the meantime, we'll keep a watch tonight. Me an Yanosh, Tishe and Vayine, Flea and Olaf, and then Gry."
Yanosh asks about a temple, and the blond man shakes his head. "Just Pantheon," he answers.
DM Apology (DM JohnP) Thursday May 15th, 2008 11:38:52 PM
No post tonight, sorry.
Flea d20+13=32 ; Friday May 16th, 2008 12:51:30 AM
"I know the way!" volunteers Flea, when Trellus suggests camping out at Gillan's hut in order to spare Trellus' folks any further trouble from the monks.
Later, the rogue cannot help but ponder her fate, and that of her friends.
"I'm glad to be under the dome for a bit," she says as she rustles around in what serves as a pantry for any victuals. "Wonder if the druid had any glass grass juice stashed around here?" (Search=32)
Yanosh Friday May 16th, 2008 1:12:55 PM
Yanosh nods at Trellus's statement about divining but he has never done it before. He is still relativly new to being an Eye of Gargul. having no one to learn from for most of his time in the Ice Vein Yanosh had to learn as he went along. Trial and error was his way of learning.
Vayine Friday May 16th, 2008 4:37:58 PM
Vayine nods at the pecking order of the watch and begins finding a place to bed down until his turn for watch.
Grymash Friday May 16th, 2008 8:17:20 PM
Once the pack gets comfortable and settles down for the night, he gets out his divining bowl and a small pouch of rune-covered bones. After softly chanting the incantations and twiddling his fingers in various ways, his little candle burns out. The smoke fluidly circles up and into his snout. The smoke seeps out of his mouth as he asks his question, "Wills da judgment of da council for da Bloodpack be gute or bad?" Upon saying this he tosses the bones into the bowl and watches them intently as they roll around. What do they say .... ohhh, ahhh!
(Casting Augury)
Tishe' Saturday May 17th, 2008 12:51:09 PM
The plain faced woman spends her free time teaching Tacia more tricks, and helping Grymash with his mastery of the language of dragons. And Highlight to display spoiler: { proper draconic pronounciation follows} is how you say "My, what big teeth you have." Tishe' puts a hand on the half-orcs arm and smiles. "It is a form of endearment."
Camping Out (DM JohnP) Saturday May 17th, 2008 11:00:58 PM
The Bloodpack initially consider going back to Trellus' family compounds but re-consider. Instead, Flea leads them to the hut that was once used by Gilan. After some twists and turns, the 'Pack find their way to the somewhat dilapidated hut. Even though it looks rough, the hut should probably still shelter the 'Pack for the night. Once watch schedules are arranged, the the 'Pack settle for the night.
Thinking back on the examination, Tishe' thinks that she could discern some pattern to the flashes of light. Tishe' might be able to figure out the functions of the Gavel given enough time and study. Perhaps if the theurge became a Councillor she would have enough time to do so.
After some discussion, both Grymash and Trellus plan on casting some divination magic in the morning. Perhaps that would provide some information to act upon.
Just as the others were preparing to settle for the night, Trellus and Yanosh notice someone approaching the hut. When the woman gets closer it is easy to determine that it is Malafret. The Councillor waves in acknowledgement before coming to the hut.
"Can I come in? It took me some time to find you but I thought of this place once I saw that you weren't at your family's place, Trellus."
Once they permit Malafret to enter, she will enter the hut and greet everyone else.
"Sorry that I couldn't say more today. The Council has been very tense the last weeks and I'm being watched. You can guess, can't you? May I sit?"
Assuming that the Bloodpack would be so gracious, Malafret sits where she can see most or all of the Bloodpack.
"You know how the Council has been trying to keep things within Rattledam and out on the Sargrass under control? It's been a long time, now. Well, things are starting to move and change and ... that's putting a lot of stress on the Council. Maybe since the Fae King awoke, but maybe from before.
"The Council has been trying to keep things from changing for a long time. There's other forces in the Sargrass that want to change the Sargrass. The Council has been in balance with the Manfri and the Druids for a long time. But now there's others moving about and currents in the Wold that want change. And ... some have read the signs and seen that a Migration might come soon."
"You couldn't have come back at a worse time. Earlier, you might have been ignored or shuffled off on another mission. Later, the Council might have been too busy. But now, you're like the folks who stumble into a wasp nest after it's been poked by some other beaters."
"Anyway, you're going to Trial."
Malafret waits for any reaction from the Bloodpack to settled before continuing to speak.
"I've tried, as much as I can, but it will happen. And, probably, Galafar and his crowd will push for exile if not banishment. And, if exile, they'll probably manipulate you by the hope of coming back if you work for them quietly. Like that other Pack, the Dark Pack, had that sweetroot dangled in front of them for so long until ... well, they'd been formed into exactly what was needed."
"So, that's what will happen. I wanted to let you know beforehand so that you could prepare as best you can."[/b]
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday May 19th, 2008 1:16:56 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of May 12 - May 18
Three questions... Three rather simple questions are put before our friends as they are standing under Pantheon's Gavel. To describe the Dark Pack, to explain their delayed return and to describe some of the twisted creatures they encountered on the plains...
But the answers are far from simple and accusations to Galafar can't be held back. The gavel appears to accept the Bloodpack's answers better than the Council does... Thruthfully the Bloodpack answers all questions and realises it's no longer in their hands. After the interrogations the Bloodpack finds Gilan's house and sets in for the night expecting to be called for the next morning.
But they don't need to wait this long when suddely Malafret stands in front of the door. She informs the Bloodpack of the Council's decision. The Bloodpack will go to trial...
Into Exile? Banishment? Never the less... It would appear the Bloodpack's days in Rattledam are numbered...
Trellus Monday May 19th, 2008 11:32:48 AM
Seeing Malafret, Trellus quickly invites her in.
He listens intently, nodding along as needed to encourage his teacher to keep talking. Anything she's willing to tell, he's willing to listen to.
As usual, he gets the impression that Malafret (and therefore the rest of the Council) keep assuming the Bloodpack has received more training/guidance from Rattledam than they really have. The pack's prolonged absences have meant missed lessons apparently. And the Council doesn't know which lessons have been missed. The "balance" between manfri, druid, and monk is one. And the assumption the Pack has made vows to Rattledam and the Council is another. And of course, the biggest assumption, which Trellus decides to address right now.
"But Teacher," he asks, after she mentions the Council's hope to prey on a desire to come back. "What if we're not all that eager to stay?"
Should she still be around after that fireball, he asks, "What can we expect from a Trial?"
Tishe' Monday May 19th, 2008 1:05:53 PM
"I would think the dye on that thread is easy to see, Trellus." states the mystic from her tailor-position on the floor. A Prestidigitation spell is busy cleaning up the one-room place, and Tishe' is able to concentrate on the conversation at hand. "If we let on to the Council that we are so independant as to want to leave, they will never let us out of Rattledam with intact memories of the place." Tishe' begins talking to herself out loud, "I think the best we could do is get the Council to exile us with threads spun, thinking they are still the puppet masters and not realizing those threads are already cut."
Grymash Monday May 19th, 2008 2:12:01 PM
With a grunt, Grymash chimes in, "Wells then, Gry think da Bloodpack need ta leave, now. Bloodpack has uh new home. Betters home. Malafret can come too."
Yanosh Monday May 19th, 2008 3:50:24 PM
"I agree with Gry. The only problem with leaving now is that it will self convict us. My Grandfather used to say never run if you are right. Always stand and fight. But then again Grandfather had away with a War Hammer that was impressive." Yanosh cant stand the thought of looking like he is slinking away in th middle of the night. Even when he really is slinking away.
Trellus Monday May 19th, 2008 5:01:01 PM
Trellus looks glum.
"I'm worried about what they might do to my folks," he replies to Grymash.
Grymash Tuesday May 20th, 2008 9:34:17 AM "Oh.. yeah. Gry forgets!" It nearly made Grymash sick to bow to those beaters and Galafar. It took all of Gargul's help to keep him from cursing them all. Now they have to just stand there and be judged by them. He could care less for banishment or exile, but to stand before them and be scolded makes his eyes turn red with blood.
Vayine Tuesday May 20th, 2008 11:07:05 AM
I don't want to be negative. but it seems that we have little choice. I have never run from a fight, I have just retreated and waited for a better time and place to do so. YOur parents will listen to reason if you explain that there is really no other choice, and that harm could be fall them if they don't.
we can't stand up to the counsil, even more so with our lack of proper gear. and I don't like the idea of working for the very man who caused all these problems.
Yanosh Tuesday May 20th, 2008 3:52:25 PM
"Hmmmm I guess I didnt Think they would really do something against your family. Just shows what kind of Cowards they are." Yanosh feels bad that something may befall Trellus's family because of some they did.
Going to Trial [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday May 21st, 2008 3:11:48 AM
Malafret quietly listens to the discussion that starts between the pack members. Trellus, no longer certain they are even remotely interested in staying in Rattledam, is above all worried for his family. Tische' suggests going along with whatever the council has in mind for them and going their own way after the sentence whyle Gry would rather pack their things and leave right away... Yanosh and Vayine seem to agree with Gry but neither favours running away from battle...
Malafret sighs... suddenly it seems as though these past few hours have weighed on her heavily... she somehow appears older suddenly...
"It is likely you will be banished from the city and your family Trellus will be spared. They will live with the shame of having sons and daughters who are exiled. But they will be spared. You however will never be able to return... you could also choose for exile yourself... perhaps they will be more lenient on you then..."
"If you run now... " Malafret continues looking at Grymash, "you'll be renegades... your family would take the blame for it and every pack out there will be allowed to attack you on sight. There will be no place for you to go.
Please go to trail with your heads up. Accept whatever sentence they bring. There's more to investigate about the plains... I had a new assign..." but Malafret stops.
"No first you go to trail. I will seek you afterwards. Try to catch some sleep. They will come for you in the morning."
Then Malafret gets up and walks to the door.
Tishe' Wednesday May 21st, 2008 9:21:47 AM
"There is wisdom in Malafret's thread", comments Tishe' from the floorboards. "If we accept the responsibility of the Dark Pack's death and the implication that slaying a pack of Rattledam weakens the total defense of Rattledam, we can suggest to the Council that we go into exile. Suggest reluctantly."
She pauses and considers her words. "It has the benefits of being the truth, that we did kill the pack and indirectly reduced the defense of Rattledam, and convienient for the Council and the Bloodpack. The Council will not want to admit any shortcoming of the Council or a member of the Council, yet they will know we prevented a war even so."
"But now for sleep." Rising from her tailor-fashion postion, Tishe' moves to her corner and sleeps with Tacia until it is her turn for watch.
Grymash Wednesday May 21st, 2008 10:07:38 AM "Gry no cares whut thays say 'bout Gry or dat weez be badished. Gry still no understand!! Whut have Bloodpack done wrong? Weez do everythangs da beaters say! Weez can clean da blood of any pack off our weapons. No pack can stand against Bloodpack ... an yet, weez be da bad ones??!! Gry think thays be stupid in da head. Gry no cares no more. Curses ta Rattledam!"
With the conclusion of his rant, Grymash turns to Trellus. "Trellus, go tells ya parents ta comes wit Bloodpack. Weez can protect thems better than Rattledam. Thay no deserve ta lives under whip of slavers. Thays can be free an lives wit honor. Thays no need ta eat whut da council spit at thems."
Trellus watches Malafret leave, somewhat comforted by the knowledge that his family should be safe as long as he doesn't do something completely sunbaked.
The blond man nod sympathetically as Grymash roars out his frustration. Rubbing the back of his neck furiously, he attempts to answer. "I think..." he stops, thinks, and starts again.
"I don't think I can convince them walking through the Grass with us is safer than staying in Rattledam where they've been safe all their lives," he confesses. "The beaters really don't mess with my folks. Dad just makes and sells pottery. He can't be used as a tool, and he's not a threat. He just a citizen. And the plain, ordinary citizens do just shady here."
Thinking some more, Trellus tries to answer the barbarian's other question.
"They don't like us because we don't do exactly what they want, Gry. Remember those dudes on the boat? The fight where Mac got stuck in the deck? We let two of those dudes go. The Council wanted their threads cut. We let that spider-avatar-dude go, too. The Council wanted him dead. We've talked to the barons in IronHome. The Council woulda killed them. The Council, at least Galafar, sent the Dark Pack to kill Flor and Faun. We prevented it."
"No, the Council fights to keep everything in the Grass exactly the same. No changes at all. And they expect us, as their weapons, to do exactly the same thing. We don't. And they don't like it."
Trellus tilts his hand over. "On the other side of the pattern, there is something here in Rattledam that they're guarding. Something important to the Grass. I can't shake the feeling that we're all better off with the Council here, however shortsighted, than we would be with Barons or Oglian or whoever's doing these Twisted Creatures. I think the Plains still needs Rattledam, and we will still need the Council, someday anyway."
"I like what Malafret and Tishe are saying Gry. We do this Trial. We walk in. We listen to what they gotta say, and then we say what we're gonna do. We volunteer for exile, and we leave Rattledam. We can go out and help the Plains, and not worry about orders from the Council. But we also don't get 'em so mad they want to kill us, or anyone we love."
"Someday....." Trellus' tone becomes harder, convinced about what he's saying. "We're getting stronger really fast, Gry. Someday we're gonna be more powerful than the Council. And, then we're gonna come back and have ourselves another talk with those beaters."
<deep breath>
But, for today, let's do this Trial, and be done with it.
Vayine Wednesday May 21st, 2008 3:51:35 PM
"I have been exiled before, and I know the problems it can cause." Vayine seems to be fighting himself on weather or not to continue, the emotions of hiw thoughts, playing across his coal colored face. in the end the drows features change to one of resignation. with a quite sigh the drow moves towards the two newest members of the bloodpack.
"so mates, I haven't seen much of this world and I am curious to know more about this land you came from, and those you traveled with before running with our pack. Flea seems to know you somehow, and your clothing leads me to suspect that the land your from is rather diferent then the one we currently reside in."
Yanosh Wednesday May 21st, 2008 4:00:38 PM
Turning towards his assigned watch time Yanosh remains silent about the trial.
Turning to the Pack members suddenly Venoum in his eyes Yanosh cannot stay quiet. "I will stand with the Bloodpack at the trial. I swear before you all and Gargul Himself that I will not waver in my alegence to the 'Pack." With that Yanosh Draws his knife and slices his forearm. "My blood falls to the ground from which the 'Pack comes. I will protect the 'Pack and all it stands for with my life," that said Yanosh turn back to his watch. Blood drips from the fingers of his left hand in a slow congealing flow.
Flea Wednesday May 21st, 2008 6:02:29 PM
Flea's eyes are focused on the work she performs in the tiny nook of a kitchen. Cobbling together some simple fare from whatever she can find in the druid's larder and amongst her trail rations. A Pretidigitation spells is used to make the fare more palatble.
Moving around as she sets out a couple of trays of food, she listens to what the others say. She's of a mind to do as Grymash suggests, and high-tail it out of town in the dark. But then Trelus, and Tishe' speak of another way. A subterfuge. Flea is game.
"So this is going to be our final act as an official Rattledam pack," she says, relishing the idea that she might get to use some of her newly aquired acting skills. "How should be play it out?"
The Final act as an official Rattledam pack? [ADM StevenVdB] d4=1 ; Thursday May 22nd, 2008 12:59:57 AM Tishe' accepts Malafret's words and realises the Pack will have to take their responsabilities. While waiting for their trial she intends to make the best of the situation.
Grymash can't seem to understand what in the Wold they did wrong to anger the Council untill Trellus attempts to explain everything to him. The fact that his folks would not be harmed in any way reassures the blond-haired cleric to the point where he is willing to accept the Council's ruling. He also seems to value Malafret's suggestion to willingly go into exile. But one day... the Bloodpack will return to Rattledam and that day the ground beneath Rattledam will quake...
To Vayine a lot of this is beginning to look familiar... he thought to have found some peace with his brother out here on the plains with the Bloodpack. But once again he finds himself on the virge of being an outlaw... the warrior feels tired or running... perhaps elsewhere in the Wold will he find his peace? But soon the warrior will realise that wherever he will go there will always be trouble... His place is with the Pack...
New to the Pack Yanosh however swears an oath never to betray the pack and to help it in any way he can. Dispite the scars on his face he has been welcomed into the Pack with open arms. Such a warm welcome can only be honored by such an oath. To put some strength to his words he slices his forearm with a knife... (Yanosh looses 1HP from self damage - automatic hit.)
Letting the others do the talking the little gnome is focused on her work ni the tiny nook of the kitchen. Not meddeling in the discussion she first agrees to Gry's anger but then realises the words Trellus and Tishe' speak weave a different thread... perhaps a thread with more future...
Olaf remains silent... going with the flow... but will he be there when the pack needs him?? (ooc: wearing the ADM hat : Olaf please increase your posting habbit. Your last post was wednesday May 14th)
With a lot on their mind the Bloodpack tries to catch some sleep as Malafret suggested (Yanoshes's wound is healed over night).
The next morning the Pack is awoken by loud banging on the door.
"The Bloodpack is to be escorted to trial by demands of the Council" a voice bellows outside.
Immediately bystanders gather round and hesitate to see things unfold. A Rattledam Pack that is brought to trial is far more interesting that the daily Rattledam business...
Looking outside you see a large number - unable to count them at first sight - of guards making a path between the bystanders to escort you towards the Council...
(ooc : friends. In absence of DM JohnP I am taking my responsabilities and will do my best to guide you all. Please do not hesitate to give remarks or suggestiong off line - you have my email. If not : steven.vandenbremt@skynet.be Forgive typing errors... I live in Belgium so we speak Dutch and French ;-) )
Yanosh Thursday May 22nd, 2008 10:03:59 AM
Rising from sleep Yanosh quietly gathers what few beongings he has with him. When the summons comes he quietly follows Tishe' and Flea out the door. Wanting to be close to them so he can ask questions if he needs to.
Flea d20+3=17 ; Thursday May 22nd, 2008 10:59:43 AM
Flea smoothes out her clothes, re-ties her crimson sash, and straightens the pointed hat upon her head.
As she treads the gauntlet of guards, she tries to generate some good-will with the crowd (Diplomacy=17) smiling and waving cheerily, and generally trying to put her best face forward.
Tishe' d20=3 ; Thursday May 22nd, 2008 4:57:18 PM
Rising early, Tishe' is prepared to be called to the Council, but this public display is not on her loom. She hangs back, waiting for some clue from Trellus if this has ever happened before.
Yet when the group begins to walk the gauntlet, she does it with head high and a smile on her face. Tacia walks close to her side, feeling hemmed in. But Tishe' will even give small waves to faces that she recognizes: Trellus' family, children from the pool, even the Black Pack. She tries hard to pretend it is no big thing (Perform: 3), but by the time she gets to the Council building, she is visibly wilting and hoping for this to all be over.
Vayine Thursday May 22nd, 2008 4:59:51 PM
Vayine walks out the door, head held high. His academy uniform stiched up and repaired the night before.
Grymash Thursday May 22nd, 2008 8:06:13 PM
Grymash follows his pack. His expression is more of boredom, tired of the show. Get it over with, gee! Along the way, he mentions to his Bloodpack, "When dis over, Gry no have morning meal yet?" He walks on with his teeth scrubber still hanging out of his mouth. He continues to brush half-heartedly, spitting now and then along the way.
Trellus Thursday May 22nd, 2008 9:47:08 PM
In response to Yanosh's oath, Trellus lays a hand on the dwarf's shoulder. "And we all feel the same about you, Yanosh. The pack first and foremost."
To Flea - "I'm not playing it at all. I'm for Domi, the Land, and the Bloodpack. If they can handle that, shady. If not, we're willing to walk out and do it out there."
Morning comes, and with it the expected summons. At the sight of the number of guards, the blond man chuckles. "Light, we sure are some dangerous dudes, aren't we?" he notes to nobody in particular.
Trellus moves as if a weight has been lifted. He's made his decision, and as far as he's concerned, the rest of this is just the formalities. The cleric nods greetings to anybody he recognizes, and moves steadily toward the Council.
Dead men (and woman) walking?!? [ADM StevenVdB] Friday May 23rd, 2008 3:53:01 AM
One by one the Pack members leave Gilan's house and build an image of indifference, bravery, boldness and pride. The crowd that now has assembled behind the lines of guards cheers at the sight of the Pack. Hoping to see some action though, some seem to be rather disappointed that the Bloodpack is not trying to resist at all...
Even though it's only a few minutes walking distance from the house to the Council it seems to take forever. Slowly the group advances constantly escorted by guards. They are running back and forth to close the lines at every point.
As they go Trellus, Tishe' and Flea try to uphold their pride and wave or nod to anyone they know in the crowd. Along the way Trellus sees his father looking rather bewildered trying to get through the crowd to get close to his son but he fails to get there being pushed aside by others...
By the time they reach the Council there's not much left of Tishe's pride...
Yanosh and Vayine are proud to walk with the Bloodpack and with Olaf they close ranks. Grymash though is bored and would much rather slice his double axe through these accursed guards and leave the city right away...
After what appears to be an eternity the group reaches the entrance to the council.
You are again escorted to the Council's chamber. Upon entering the chamber your eyes are immediately drawn to the center of the table... Galafar!!! He has taken the lead in the Council and now sits at the head of the table. He'll be the one to rule in this trial!! The guards that have escorted you here are now encircling the entire room as if they are anticipating you to go berserk -- though their large number and in presence of the council would make it suicide. Malafret, sitting at the end of the table, looks worried but a gentle nod reassures you to go along with the flow...
"Bring forth the Bloodpack" a voice bellows again.
A young cleric steps forward holding a scroll of parchment in his hands. Scraping his throat he begins to speak :
"The here persent Trellus, Tishe', Furtif Aeanora Flibbertigibbit , Grymash, Yanosh Ironfist, Vayine Di'telthorn and Olafr sik Tapelig and also here not present Gilan DeKasparl EnVosh and Murdock Trizica, known as the Bloodpack, are brought before the supreme council upon charges of disobeying the Council's assignments and treason by hiding information from the council. You were judged by the Hammer of Pantheon and will be sentenced by the high Councilor Galafar..."
Silence...
"Do you want to add anything in your defence?" the young cleric concludes.
Trellus d20+12=28 ; Friday May 23rd, 2008 10:39:05 AM
Trellus is unmoved by the charges, although his mind can't help but note this might be the very first time in his life the beaters got right to the point.
The cleric steps forward to address the Council. Unbowed but not arrogantly so, he makes eye contact with all but Galafar, whom he subtly ignores. The young man's words are clear, and flow unhurried from his mouth.
[Diplomacy 28]
"We have spoken in our defense yesterday," he begins. "And our testimony is unchanged. We have successfully completed every assignment we have been tasked with. It is by our efforts that Rattledam remains undiscovered by Barons, and unthreatened by the Fae King. It is by our efforts that the Fem Fatales and Councilwoman Malafret still breathe fresh air. In what way is that disobedient? We have stated and restated our oath, "The Land, My Life", even under the Hammer of Pantheon, and have never been found false."
"As for withholding information," he continues. "Has not the Council withheld information from us? You have. You deem the knowledge too dangerous for mere children, and withhold it out of concern for Rattledam's well being, no doubt. We do the same. In accordance to our oath to the Land, to which we have vowed our lives, we withhold it. For we fear what some here might to do the Land."
Trellus turns on Galafar, still calm, still earnest.
"We serve the Land, by the oaths you and Councillor Malafret bade us take in the presense of Mankife of the Manfri. By that oath we serve that Land. We serve the Council and Rattledam only so far as it does not betray that oath. We have made no oaths to you. We have made no oaths to Rattledam. The Council professes to protect Rattledam. We wish to continue to assist, as Rattledam is part of the Land."
The cleric holds up a hand.
"But it is only a part. An important part, true. But not all of it. We swore to the entire Land, and will serve the entire land."
"No doubt, the Council will find our determination unacceptable. You demand a level of obedience we cannot give. I am very sorry this is so. I wish to continue...we wish to continue helping and protecting the people of Rattledam. But, it appears we cannot do so within the confines of its dome. Therefore..."
Trellus pauses, mostly for the dramatic effect.
"we respectfully volunteer for permanent exile from the dome."
Yanosh Friday May 23rd, 2008 2:35:30 PM
Yanosh stands silent as Trellus speaks. His blue grey eyes stare straight at Galafar. Is face is wrapped in his Grey scarf nothing showing but his Eyes and his goatee and mustache. Arms crossed and feet shoulders width apart Yanosh waits.
Gathering info [ADM StevenVdB] Friday May 23rd, 2008 3:49:14 PM
Friends, would you all be so kind to send me your character sheets? Some have put them on the woldipedia but not all. I need these for :
1) I want to put some work in the Woldipedia Bloodpack site 2) I want to calculate what I need to kill the Bloodpack in the next encounter... ;-)
Please send them all this weeked to steven.vandenbremt@skynet.be
Tishe' d20=1 ; Friday May 23rd, 2008 10:07:33 PM
Tishe' wilts some more at noting Galafar's ascendancy on the Council. "High Councillor...", and the plain-faced woman stands mute before the accusations. She is very thankful that Trellus speaks first, time to get her composure, time to get her thoughts in order. But she is obviously not thinking very clearly, and her breath comes in short gasps of a panic.
"I want to protect the peaceful people and the goodness that is here in Rattledam.", Tishe' begins, (Diplomacy: 1), "but it doesn't look like we'll be allowed to help anyone anymore. Go ahead, fry my brain that I won't have to see this travesty of justice. How Pantheon would weep!"
(ooc: I was going to say something more in keeping with voluntary exile, but couldn't pass up role-playing the natural "1" in Diplomacy :-) )
Flea d20-1=8 ; Saturday May 24th, 2008 11:44:48 AM
Flea pulls a moue when she sees the beater Galafar at the head of the council.
She looks at the other councillors, trying to gauge their mood (Sense Motive=8). Not getting a very good fix, she decides to scan the room to see if there looks to be a way the group might make an excape if things get really ugly. She wishes she had her holy short sword with her.
Vayine Monday May 26th, 2008 1:42:27 AM
The drow stands at attention, looking at his companions and watching their reactions. The warrior knows about exile, and to him, it is nothing new. He is curious to see how it effects the others.
Galafar's reply... [ADM StevenVdB] Monday May 26th, 2008 3:55:17 AM
Once the charges are read by the young cleric the council appears to stop breathing in anticipation of the reaction of the Bloodpack...
Trellus is the first to step forward and addresses the council with dignity. Here and there you can feel the accusations he makes to the council and when he does you can sense how the Council stirs and awaits an outburst from Galafar. Yet he remains silent and eyeballs Trellus with contempt.
Trellus feels not all of the council agree to the charges and thanks to his diplomatic ways of talking he gains respect from some. Yet he doubts this will help his packmates...
Yanosh looks straight into the eyes of Galafar but the High Councilor himself is fixed on Trellus... Yanosh can almost feel the hatred that spreads through those eyes... almost as if this has come to a personal issue between Trellus and Galafar!
Tishe's pride crumbles even more when she sees Galafar has taken control of the Council and fails miserably to gain respect from the council... calling this trial a travesty isn't likely to do the Bloodpack any good.
Flea and Vayine remain silent and observe the council... the drow warrior knows exile all to well and wonders how his new found friends will react to it.
Oblivious to the council Olaf and Grymash simply stand next to their friends...
Then Galafar stands. Without consulting the others he addresses the Bloodpack. His voice rich of hatred and contempt for no obvious reason he says:
"By your efforts..." he sneers repeating Trellus's words, "By your efforts... bah... your puny efforts are unimportant for the greater whole of Rattledam... you speak as though you know everything about the Sargrass yet you haven't even begun to understand!!"
Galafar starts to walk around the table and towards you... taunting you to do something stupid like trying grappling him to get out of here... A quick scan of the room would reveal at least 20 guards fully armed and there's no way of telling how many others are between this room and the front gates of Rattledam...
"You choose exile you say..." directly to Trellus, "But what about these others?? You choose exile yet feel you haven't wronged Rattledam in any way... You choose exile yet you want to continue helping the people of Rattledam??!!?? Galafar's words come out slowly... some in a whisper others with stress... His intonation sends shivers down your spine...
"Where then will you go..."
Galafar looks Trellus straight into the eyes as he asked his final question...
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday May 26th, 2008 4:09:51 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of May 19 - May 25
Malafret pays the Bloodpack a short visit before they will be brought to court and begs them to go with the flow... Resisting to the council would make them renegades...
The next morning the Bloodpack is escorted to the council. Galafar now has taken control of the council!!
DM JohnP is temporarily unable to post - ADM takes over... Yikes!! Help!!
Game Speed = 60% / Player posts needed = 3
Trellus Monday May 26th, 2008 9:39:43 AM
There was a time when the blond cleric was petrified of Galafar. The mere sight of the monk would make him turn and hurry away in another direction. But that was before a rapke opened up his stomach, before he had descended into the caverns of the Oglian, before he had met and conversed with dragons, and Dragon Packs, and the DragonStone, and a god.
Speaking with a man, even one who rules his own city, no longer terrorizes Trellus. In fact, Galafar's obvious venom is intriguing. There is always a grain of fear under an emotion like that. Trellus idly wonders what he's afraid of, but that's a question for another time. At Galafar's approach, he holds his ground, and makes no move. He understands the contest. He understands the rules. He folds his hands behind his back, making himself totally vulnerable to any sudden assault by the headmaster.
"We will go to the Land," he answers calmly. "As you say, we have much to learn about that we have sworn to protect. We will do so. We will seek the manfri, the druids, the rangers, the farmers, barons, the oglian, and whatever else is out there. We will learn what is truly important, and what is not. And we will aid those who seek to aid the Land, and oppose those who seek its destruction. And in that way, we will continue to serve the people of Rattledam."
Trellus emphasizes "people" slightly, obviously differentiating the citizens of the town from its ruling body.
The man doesn't even bother turning to see his Pack's reaction to the "What about these others?" question. Is Galafar that blind?
Yanosh Monday May 26th, 2008 10:23:53 AM
At Galafars approach Yanosh steps up beside Trellus and a step back to his right. Hands at his side ready if anything happens. His eyes narrow into small slits as he desides that he will do away with Galafar even if it costs him his own life.
At the question of where they will go and what of the rest will do. Yanosh can no longer hold his tounge, "I for one will go where Trellus leads. Into the lands of the Sargrass it is then. I fear not the Sargrass. I have traveled the frozen wastes of the Ice Vein wear nothing grows but the strongest, and snow covers the weakest. My life is for Gargul, my Pack and the land."
Tishe' Monday May 26th, 2008 7:04:04 PM
Knowing her outburst did a great deal of harm, Tishe' keeps quiet under the gazes of the Council. She knows she warped up and made a tangle... and looks it.
Yet she is amazed that Galafar didn't pounce on her, that he only has eyes for Trellus! And then the pattern slowly takes place. This isn't about the Bloodpack or any of the charges, this is about Galafar and Trellus. She whispers to Flea, knowing that no one is paying attention to her, "Why does Galafar hate Trellus so much? Is it because of Domi, or something that Trellus knows?"
Flea d20+3=16 ; Monday May 26th, 2008 8:27:31 PM
"Yes!" anounces Flea, as she takes a step closer to the Bloodpack's acknowledged leader. "Yes! We will go to the land!" Flea remembers how the group weathered an electrical storm on the plains, by peeling the grass back to bare ground, and how the party avoided the insects that would invariably come with the wet or the dark, by weaving mini-domes of grass, or sleeping in cool caves under the grass. "We will protect the land, and it will protect us!"
Clasping her hands to her chest, "Talki fresal, dondit likki - The land, my life." The rogue recognizes now the importance of the vow, for now, not only will she protect the Sargrass and those to whom it is a natural habitat, but it may very well provide for, and protect her!
"Let exile be the test. If we live in exile, and survive, than it shall be known that we have honoured our vow to the land and the gods are with us. If we fail....then you will have your judgement. (Diplomacy=16)
Vayine d20=15 ; Monday May 26th, 2008 11:08:24 PM
Vayine is shocked....amazed...and impressed by the devotion and gusto that the pack is showing. He feels something in his chest and he realizes that it is pride, something he hasn't felt in a long time. yes this rag-tag band of outcasts, misfits, orphans, and half-breeds would survive. with the courage they are displaying they will grow strong on the plains.
"My life has already been sworn to this land. If I die in this land, it shall be for standing agianst those who would see her harmed. (at this point the drow stares daggers at Galafar) and I shall spend the rest of my life, or what portion is still deemed to me that I should live, protecting it and the people that live upon her soils."
untrained Diplomacy check=15 (woot!)
Vayine sees impressed by his speech, but remains quite after his comments.
Exile it will be... [ADM StevenVdB] Tuesday May 27th, 2008 5:39:48 AM
As Trellus addresses Galafar it's clear to all that the blond cleric is somehow breaking through the defenses of the High Councilor...
"YOUR CRAVING FOR KNOWLEDGE WILL LEAD TO NOT JUST YOUR OWN DOOM BUT TO THAT OF ALL PEOPLE OF RATTLEDAM AND THE PLAINS AS A WHOLE!!!!!" Galafar shouts and the others in the council are visibly shaken of Galafar's outburst but seem to realize the same thing...
Then Yanosh steps closer to stand next to Trellus... Galafar peers into the blue/grey eyes of the dwarf and scowls: "You don't fear the Sargrass??!!??... you SHOULD master dwarf!!!"
Realizing she's not improving the situation Tishe' holds back in silence wondering why Galafar is so fixed on Trellus... what is the "High Councilor" afraid of??
Flea too kicks in and stands fast beside Trellus... "Talki Fresal, Dondit Likki" the little rogue says and Galafar sighs looking at the gnome.
"Exile is not a test..." Galafar whispers... no longer the raging madman the Bloodpack saw just seconds ago but now he looks worried... in distress...
Vayine's words make Galafar's face go numb as he realizes there's nothing he can do anymore to keep the Bloodpack under his control... The High Councilor returns to the table. Malafret's eyes are filled with tears.
Seconds pass in silence. No one speaks... Galafar stairs at the Bloodpack looking everyone in their eyes. Grymash and Olaf remain in the back not supporting their pack nor doing anything that could harm the situation.
"Then into exile you will go... it will be by exile that you will help the people of Rattledam best... Leave this place and never come back... " Galafar finally says, "Guards, escort these men and lead them out of Rattledam through the front gates. Let everyone know the Bloodpack is no longer welcome here in Rattledam... Everyone who catches any member of the Bloodpack to be trespassing in Rattledam is instructed to alarm the guards and is free to attack... Be gone with them..."
Immediately countless guards encircle you all and begin to guide you towards the exit of Rattledam. The council remains silent as you leave the room. Galafar just stairs in his hands...
Once you are back on the streets you see a crowd that has gathered to await the outcome of the trial. The young cleric stands before you all and addresses the crowd.
"BEHOLD THE BLOODPACK. THEY ARE SENTENCED INTO EXILE AND ARE NO LONGER WELCOME IN RATTLEDAM. ANYONE WHO HELPS THEM WILL BE CONVICTED. ANYONE WHO CATCHES THEM TO BE TRESPASSING IN RATTLEDAM IS FREE TO ATTACK. "
Steadily the guards lead you through the streets of Rattledam, between the crowds, towards the front exit of the Dome...
"NOOO" some shout
"WHOOOT!!!!" others go
"BE GONE WITH THEM!!!"
"THEY HAVEN'T DONE ANYTHING WRONG!!!"
"SAVE THEM"
"KILL THEM NOW!!!"
It's obvious there are two sides in the crowd... trying to break free here would certainly lead to massive riots in Rattledam. Perhaps Galafar is correct... you leaving Rattledam might help the people best indeed!
Olaf Tuesday May 27th, 2008 8:31:09 AM
The young blonde man's eyes start in confusion, then his more active thoughts rise to the surface as he surveys the crowd. He feels the oppression of the pressed masses of people, and anxiety lights upon his face, realizing how close the 'pack has come to a terrible fate, and how little he has done to help. A sense of defiance and strength rushes through him, and he prepares to join with these friends, friends who now watch a lifetime crumble at the whims of a petty council. Keeping an eye out, he is prepared to sow confusion or illusion to aid escape if the crowd turns violent.
Grymash d20+7=20 ; d20+17=19 ; d20+17=20 ; Tuesday May 27th, 2008 10:23:52 AM
Turning back to Galafar after the sentence is announced and finally breaks his silence. "If da Gry cub be ables ta lives in da land wit da enemy, Gry wills lives in da land wit friends an becomes stronger. Bloodpack wills be stronger now dat weez leave da nest. Bloodpack mores than uh pack now. Weez be da Blood of da Land. An weez will be many!" And with that being said, Grymash laughs. He feels rejuvenated having the shackles of Rattledam finally being removed. His laughter finally stops and his look becomes most serious. "An be warned," Grymash reaches into his haversack and pulls out a humanoid skull, "Any new Dark Pack dat be sent ta kills us wills suffers da same fate as da old one!" Grymash holds up the skull and crushes it in his large hands (strength check 20. If that isnt enough, he will merely smash it to the ground.). Grymash then turns and leaves the shattered bones behind as he starts his march to the gates of Rattledam and beyond.
(Attempting to Intimidate using a feat of strength. Intimidate check 19)
Grymash (continued) Tuesday May 27th, 2008 10:36:01 AM
The half-orc's chest swells with pride of himself and his pack today. He only wishes his beloved, Grand Maw, was here to see this moment. He muses how ravenous she would become at the sight of him now. The feeling would be mutual. His toothy grin grows wider.
Tishe' Tuesday May 27th, 2008 10:51:51 AM
A fear takes Tishe' then, for they have left most of thier equipment in the caves under Rattledam! "Trellus! We'll be exiled without our survival equipment! We need to get to the caves!" The brown eyes are wide and quickly looking one way and then the next. "Let's make a break as we pass the pool..."
Yanosh Tuesday May 27th, 2008 3:55:07 PM
After the sentence is passed and right before they are escorted out Yanosh is the last to turn and leave. Standing staring a Galafar. The Dwarven Cleric silently makes a vular Dwarven gesture which concerns Galafars lips and Yanosh's behind. Then Yanosh turns and leaves with the rest.
Once outside Yanosh feels a surge of pride. This new Pack is stronge and able. Into exile they go. But this is nothing new to the burn scared Dwarf. Is he not already in a self imposed exile from his own family? Following the rest Yanosh wonders how they will get their weapons and equipment. Something he is sure Trellus is also thinking of and planning for.
Trellus Tuesday May 27th, 2008 3:59:31 PM
Trellus endures Galafar's tirade, arms folded behind his back, motionless. Only the tightening of his lips and the glare that flashes across his blue eyes give away the effort required to maintain the pose. The cleric doesn't even hear the monk's words, having tuned out what he said the minute he started shouting.
Eventually, Trellus figures out the Pack is done. He moves with the others through the throng, not really listening to what is being said.
Tishe cries out about their equipment and talks of making a break. "No," Trellus snaps decisively. He looks over at her, making sure the flighty woman is paying attention. "Later," he adds crypticly, and gives her a quick, reassuring wink. "Right now, let's go with the pattern."
The cleric continues to move out of the city.
Vayine Tuesday May 27th, 2008 5:59:44 PM
Vayine nods his head. they needed to get out of the city and the guards would see to it that they at least get that far. an attempt to break free could me a riot that could kill or injure many of the innocents near by. Better to attempt to sneak back to their equipment later then risk the lives of those, that they have sworn to protect.
Flea Tuesday May 27th, 2008 6:47:46 PM
Flea opens her mouth, but before she can utter a sound, the druid gives voice to the rogue's concern.
My stuff! she thinks, My holy sword, and my rings! The gnome takes a mental inventory of her hidden goods.
Manoeuvering into position beside Tishe', she taps an index finger against the side of her head, signifying she has an idea.
Oblivous to the shouts of the crowd, she formulates a plan to sneak back into the tunnels to retrieve her equipment.
Out of Rattledam and into the plains... [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday May 28th, 2008 2:22:48 AM
Getting back to his senses Olaf realizes how close the pack came to a terrible fate. Luckily his friends have been able to ward of most of the danger... Grymash stands proud and relieved at the outcome. Finally the Bloodpack will break free of Rattledam and its Council... Bloodpack will be able to grow and strengthen out there on the plains. Ultimately Grymash utters a warning -- more like a promises -- that any Pack the Council sends after the Bloodpack will be crushed like the humanoid skull he crushes...
But then most of the Bloodpack are shocked realizing they aren't going back through the tunnels where they left their gear!! Tishe' wonders if they can break free once they get near the pool. Yanosh too feels pain thinking about loosing his gear but assumes the blond cleric will have an answer to this puzzle too... But Trellus points out to Tishe' that trying to break free here and now would not be very wise... Vayine too thinks they'll have a chance perhaps to sneak back in and retrieve their gear later.
Panicking at the mere thought of loosing her stuff, holy sword and rings Flea begins to brood on a plan to sneak back into the tunnels to get everything back...
While thoughts of their gear race through the minds of the Bloodpack the caravan slowly reaches the main gate of Ratteldam... beyond the gates the plains call to the Bloodpack... welcoming them... inviting them to become one with the lands...
When close to the gate Trellus suddenly catches a glimpse of his father holding his mother in his arms trying to comfort her while she's crying for her baby... As Trellus's father notices their boy has seen them he raises a hand with tears in his eyes as he mouths the words "take care"... his mother too looks at her son -- eyes red and swollen from crying -- and after looking into the eyes of her son she tries to smile and clings to her husband...
The guards escort you further to the gates until you are all finally out of Rattledam... immediately the gates fall shut behind you... the crying and shouting that comes from within the dome quickly fades leaving you alone with the silence of the plains... there's no one here to welcome you... no gear... no supplies... nothing...
Nothing but grass in front of you...
Now where will you go?!?
Trellus Wednesday May 28th, 2008 9:04:21 AM
Trellus holds up a hand, returning his father's wave. Suddenly feeling very young, the blond man swallows convulsively, and turns away, his eyes watering.
Steeling himself, the cleric continues walking into the Grass. Once the pack is safely concealed from the eyes of Rattledam, he stops and turns to the group. "Well," he says huskily, "that was different."
The cleric pauses, reflecting on a happy childhood for several moments, before wrenching himself back to the here and now. "I need to stop right now and pray to Domi for my daily spells," he announces. "Since we were, oh, interrupted this morning, I missed my time. Gry and Yanosh probably need to as well. After that, we'll head over to the cave entrance to get out of the sun. I'll send a message to Malafret and maybe she can get us our gear. Otherwise, we'll have to go through the tunnels and get 'em back ourselves."
Grymash (continued) Wednesday May 28th, 2008 1:45:41 PM "Gute dat Gry no leave gear in da tunnels!" He utters a few words of power and his priestly robes transform back into his steelgrass breastplate armor, horned helmet and all. He then pulls out his trusted double axe from his magical quiver. "It be gute dat no ones touch Gry or feel da armor spikes!"
Grymash is very thankful to the manfri for making his magical armor. He is amazed about how much forethought they put into it, with the glamour magic and all. They obviously knew the rules of Rattledam. Very sneaky of them!!
Grymash Wednesday May 28th, 2008 1:57:46 PM
He then feels guilty for having his gear and the rest of his Blood not having any protection. He starts to pull out more weapons from his magical quiver and haversack. "Gry gots more weapons for yaz! Here be twelveteen daggers, two battlesticks*, uh large shield** and two bolas. Here be Gry's big composite bow***, but it mights be too tight strung fors yooz."
Olaf Wednesday May 28th, 2008 2:25:51 PM
Olaf, like Grymash, had not wanted to leave his trusty gear behind. "I was thinkin' it might end poorly. That council's up to ill," he gestures, as he spits to the side for luck. "Good thing we got these trusty packs," as he too pulls out his equipment from his magical bag. "I don't have much of help, but a sickle, spear, dagger, and my recurved small hunting bow (composite shortbow str +1). If yer can use it, yer can take it fer now."
Yanosh Wednesday May 28th, 2008 4:14:58 PM
"Well when it comes to equipment I have nothing but my little knife." Yanosh draws the utility knife he uses to cut food and other light work. "Its no help in combat. But I have a few spells that I can use that will help." Looking at Trellus "Yes I too could use some time to Talk with Gargul about my spells. But I say we go get our gear as soon as we can. If we wait too long they will likely put gaurds in the cave to wait for us. I know I would if i was them."
Flea Wednesday May 28th, 2008 6:18:41 PM
The rogue left almost all of her gear neatly packed in her HHHaversack in the hidey-hole in the cave under the city. Almost, but not all! Reaching into one of her boots, she draws out a set of thief's tools, and pointing to her boots she says, "even if it takes me all night, I can sneak back and forth and retrieve any gear that was left behind. You all will just have to show me the glyph you put on your cubby, so I can identify it."
Flea won't do anything until Trellus and the other folks say their prayers and such. Though she might not be particularly wise, she knows from the experience that the cleric's spells can be very useful. Domi's blessings channelled through the young man had pulled her from the edge of the Shadowlands on ore than one occaision.
Vayine Wednesday May 28th, 2008 7:26:13 PM
Vayine nods to Olaf. "thank you, I would be honored to use either the bow, or the spear as I am skilled in both. But I will let every one else decide what they would rather use first....or at least until we can retreive our gear. "
Tishe' Wednesday May 28th, 2008 8:44:02 PM
Tishe' is ready to support the decision to meditate on spells, and provides a Tiny Hut for the group to rest out of the way of the burning sun and any prying eyes.
Once spells are renewed, Tishe' is VERY interested in how they are going to be getting into the tunnels and get thier equipment without conflict. "The beaters know of the paths. Light! Malafret showed it to you! They are sure to have the place guarded."
Making plans and meditating... [ADM StevenVdB] Thursday May 29th, 2008 12:33:58 AM
Once the Bloodpack is free from Rattledam a sigh of relief spreads, but thoughts on how to get back their gear they left in the tunnels is quick in their minds. They know the tunnels could be guarded...
Trellus suggests sending Malafret a message to ask her to bring their gear while they meditate. Question would be how she would find all your gear in the first place...
Yanosh, looking at the small cooking knife feels waiting too long to replenish their spells increases the odds to find the tunnels shut or at least well guarded...
Flea wants to sneak back and forth in the tunnels to get everything -- if only they can tell her where to find all gear... She has faith in Trellus to take the right decisions.
A Tiny Hut provided by Tishe' quickly offers the Pack a place to rest and meditate and a shelter against the terrible heat from the plains. The mystic is keen to finding out exactly how they will retrieve everything...
Vayine, no need to meditate, is first of all concerned how he can help protecting the Bloodpack without weapons. He accepts either the spear or the bow Olaf offers. Too bad Grymash's bow is way to strong for any member of the Bloodpack to use. However unlike the rest of the pack, Grymash and Olaf take their gear from its magical hiding places. Feeling a lot better with their weapons and armor they are confident they can protect their friends when needed.
The group spends an hour meditating spells and thinking about everything that happend in Rattledam... Time to act!
Olaf Thursday May 29th, 2008 9:50:21 AM
Olaf hands Vayine his trusty composite shortbow and spear, saying, "Yer welcome to use 'em both---I'm not the most skilled at usin' them, in truth. I mostly like my sickle." [mundane longspear, masterwork composite short bow (Str+1)]
As the meditations begin, Olaf shows an increasing amount of agitation. He confides in Yanosh: "ya know, ever since we came ta this place, I've had little luck in callin' on the powers of the Vein. Sure, disguisin', invisibility, and healin', that I can do, but the rest... it eludes me, truth be told. I thinkin' I might need to figure a way back to the Vein to get a better sense o' what's wrong."
Yanosh Thursday May 29th, 2008 4:10:28 PM
Yanosh meditates and calls upon Gargul for guidance and the power to over come the coming chalanges. Once done with his meditations Yanosh is ready for battle.
When Olaf approaches him with his statment he thinks it over. "It maybe because you draw your powers from the Vein itself. Not being in the Vein must meen that we have lost that part of us. Maybe if you search the powers that control the Wold and not just the Vein maybe those powers will return."
Tishe' Thursday May 29th, 2008 10:41:38 PM
Tishe' hardly is able to concentrate on renewing her bond with Mother Wold (and her spells), for all the fretting that she's doing over the equipment they left in the tunnels.
"I can't weave the invisibility pick", she reminds Trellus, "I can't do any illusions."
Vayine Thursday May 29th, 2008 11:06:41 PM
Vayine excepts the offered weapons, testing each of the items wieght and strength. after a moment he decides to use the spear for the time being. he is silently angry with himself for leaving his belt of Giants str. back in the cavern with his other equipment, other wise he could have used the half-orcs mighty bow.
JimW, the good Gilan Friday May 30th, 2008 12:09:13 AM
Just wanted to let the group know that I am finally back and ready to once again start playing. Need to coordinate with the DM or ADM, if he is in control for awhile, and see how you want my character to meet back up with the group.
I look forward to getting back into the fun with the group and if anyone needs to email me...please use saberwolf@esagelink.com. That will be my new email address as I lost my old one. Hope I did not miss too much, but it looks like Cayzle did a great job working my character to help out the group.
JimW
PS: Go ahead and delete this after it has been up for awhile and everyone has a chance to read. :)
Waiting to make a DM post... [ADM StevenVdB] Friday May 30th, 2008 3:32:47 AM
need more posts friends.
Grymash Friday May 30th, 2008 8:34:10 AM "Whut be da plan? Gry thankin' dat da tunnels be secret ta most. Maybes da manfri can go in an gets. Thays have da sneaky ways!" Grymash wonders why normal spell prep is taking so long. Eight hours! Shouldn't take more than an hour. He grows impatient being so close to Rattledam. The half-orc wants to put some space between them and the town.
(ADM StevenVdB ooc: looks like you haven't reread the ADM post ;-) MikeK allready notified me of the error with the spell preparation times. Indeed it only takes 1 hour)
Trellus Friday May 30th, 2008 3:57:04 PM
[ooc - work is kicking my butt]
"Just give me a few minutes, dudes."
After memorizing his spells, Trellus immediately busies himself in casting a spell. It takes about ten minutes, and the cleric is concentrating mightily.
[Sending spell, directed at Malafret - Teacher, our gear remains in the alcove. Need help retrieving. We are at tunnel entrance onto Plains.]
Vayine Friday May 30th, 2008 4:59:43 PM
Vayine paces back and forth. they were in serious trouble if they couldn't get their gear back. they would find new gear, that was true but he was used to what he wore and fought with for so many years.
"What about Flee, do you have any of those shady potions that will make her invisable, or a spell? or do you think she stands a chance just scouting out the cavern?"
Yanosh Friday May 30th, 2008 10:31:00 PM
Pacing the floor of the little hut Yanosh is eager to get what is theirs. "I say we go in and take what is ours. If there are Guards then so be it."
A helping hand... [ADM StevenVdB] Monday June 2nd, 2008 12:53:22 AM Gilan Highlight to display spoiler: { read email before posting please }
Time passes slowly while the spell casters meditate. Even though it's but an hour it feels like an eternity... simply waiting out here without weapons or gear makes several among the bloodpack feel uneasy.
Olaf gets agitated for not being able to draw the same power from the Sargrass Plains as he used to draw from the Ice Vein. Good thing Yanosh is there to comfort him while he himself calls upon the mighty Gargul to guide him in these dangerous times. He advises Olaf to search for the Powers that controls the Wold rather than the source that powers the Ice Vein... little does the dwarf know how much truth there is in his words...
Tishe' too tries to connect to Mother Wold but can't seem to get to the same level she usually can. All this stress about getting their gear back causes her mind to be slow.
Trying the weapons handed by Olaf, Vayine chooses the spear for now. He realizes being out on the plains without gear is dangerous. He wonders if they couldn't get Flea in with some invisibility spells...
Yanosh is getting inpatient to get their stuff back. Go back and take what is theirs appeals to the dwarf. Grymash too wants to put a good distance between them and Rattledam as fast as possible and suggests calling upon the Manfri to sneak into the tunnels and get the Bloodpack gear.
Taking some extra time Trellus prepares a sending spell. He sends a short message to Malafret asking for her help... quickly the cleric receives an answer!
"Wait there -- must be careful -- on my way -- will get gear -- stay close to tunnel"
In abbreviated form Malafret makes it clear to Trellus that she will help by getting all the Bloodpack stuff from the tunnels once it's safe for her to go.
Again time slowly passes... another hour goes by...
Listen DC9 : Highlight to display spoiler: {"You hear noise inside the tunnel."} Listen DC14 : Highlight to display spoiler: {"Someone is coming your way through the tunnels. 1 person. By the sound of it, it appears to be someone who is carrying a lot of weight...}
Olaf d20+4=9 ; d20+15=21 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 8:59:23 AM
Olaf mentions that he could join Flea in retrieving their gear. "I don't know 'bout the rest of you, but I'm fair enough at stayin' unseen when the animal's near the trap. I could help, if ya need." Still, with Malafret's advice passed around, he thinks it best to wait for now.
Hearing some noise in the tunnel (listen 9), he conceals himself near the entrance (hide 21), withdrawing his sickle in case the need arises.
Tishe' d20+11=27 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 9:18:26 AM
When Trellus conveys Malafret's message, the brown-haired woman is more relaxed. "She may even be able to give us a few more cryptic clues or advice", she speculates out loud. Tishe' stays in the Tiny Hut, keeping the magic going and the perfect magical blind. "We can see out, but nobody can see in", she explains to whoever wants to listen, "a great ambush spell."
(Listen: 27) "It sounds like only one person, heavily loaded." Tishe' perks up, expecting Malafret to come out of the tunnel.
Trellus d20+10=27 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 11:33:39 AM
[Listen 27]
Trellus passes Malafret's message to all, and settles down to wait a bit longer.
Yanosh and Grymash are getting shuttlecocked, and the human does his best to calm them down a bit. "We still got friends in Rattledam," he asserts. "Let them help us. I don't want to burn down any fields I don't have to. After all, we may need to come back here someday."
Later, the cleric also hears the approaching person. He rises to his feet, but takes no other defensive actions, as he fully expects the person to be Malafret.
Yanosh d20+1=15 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 4:32:50 PM
yanosh agrees with Tishe' as he too hears the person coming. Hoping that all of their gear is with who ever it is. If its not a freind the what ever gear they have will soon be his. Survival matters first in a place such as these.
Listen 15
Gilan d20+6=10 ; d20+6=15 ; d20+6=11 ; d20+6=19 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 7:20:02 PM
Loaded down under the weight of so much gear he finds the going to be harder than it was originally and he is unable to use an alternate form as it would not allow him to carry as much. With many of the larger items held together by the rope that he had on him, then looped off and tied around himself he advances to the entrance of the tunnel.
As he exits the tunnel he looks around to see what might be waiting for him and to see if his friends might be around. His eyes come to settle upon the only form that seems to be standing in the open area near the tunnel...Trellus. "Light but you still need me." His smile is half hidden by all the gear that he is carrying and he does not drop it as he waits to see about the others as well. You notice that the large wolf that normally accompanies him is missing and there is something different about him as well.
"This bites grass...and you could get some of your junk off me before I decide to shed it." There is laughter in his voice as his eyes continue to dance with excitement and joy, though there is a new wildness to them that you have seen developing the past few weeks. It seems that your wild friend has become just that...wild.
[listen 10 and spot 15 *ignore the extra rolls*]
Flea d20+11=14 ; Monday June 2nd, 2008 7:31:40 PM
"Shhhh!" whispers Flea, ""I hear something! One thing, coming down the tunnels. It is a big thing, or something carrying something heavy!" (Listen=14)
Flea can't imagine a formian or some other weird monster emerging from the tunnels under Rattledam, but then you just never know what you might encounter on the Sargrass Plains.
Flea blinks. Her mouth opens and closes like a fish out of water. "It' s Gilan!" she cries, when the druid emerges. "Were have you been? How did you know?" Flea throws herself at the dark haired figure laden with packs and armor.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 12:25:29 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of May 26 - June 1 3
The trial turns bad on our friends. Surrounded by countless guards they can only listen to what Galafar has to say. First a raging madman, later seemingly a tired old man... But at the last the Bloodpack IS exiled from the City of Rattledam...
Escorted by guards the Pack is lead towards the front gates... Soon the Bloodpack realizes they are not going to get their gear from the tunnels!!
Game Speed = 80% / Player posts needed = 4
Gilan's return [ADM StevenVdB] Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 12:39:55 AM
While they wait for a sign of Malafret, Olaf suggest sneaking into the tunnels with Flea but assumes Malafret's advice to wait is possibly even better. Hearing what Malafret told Trellus through the message spell Tishe' is more relaxed and as they wait the mystic admires her own magic of the Tiny Hut. Trellus once again attempts to calm the feisty ones among the Bloodpack. It's no use to destroy every link the still might have to Rattledam... one day they might need to come back here... So then Grymash waits although he hates waiting...
But then the group hears something... Olaf is the first to hear some noise in the tunnel and hides near the entrance. Tishe' discerns it to be only one person... heavily loaded... Hearing this Trellus assumes its Malafret with their gear. Flea too can hear either one person heavily loaded or maybe one big thing... Yanosh stands fast to 'welcome' any who is not their friend...
But then Flea cries: "It's Gilan!!"
Gilan indeed emerges from the tunnels. How or where he came from he'll explain later. First things first... he asks Trellus to help take some of the gear of him as it begins to weigh heavily. All the Bloodpack gear could not even fit his Handy Haversack!! Luckily the Pack stayed close to the tunnel to await Malafret or he would not have found you this easily!!
Olaf Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 6:40:43 AM
Olaf blushes at his own concern---how could he have feared a fellow 'pack member?---then grins and stamps his feet in appreciation of the fortuitous timing.
Vayine Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 9:08:29 AM
Vayine hears Flea's cry that the approuching person is Gilan. the drow rushes out the door to help the struggling man with his burden. His face seems to grow younger as the concern for there gear vanishes.
"It's good to see you again, thank you for securing our gear." the warrior says to the druid, as he takes part of the load from the druid and moves with him to the hut.
Trellus Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 10:30:18 AM
Trellus cries out delightedly at the sight of his old friend, and rushes forward to help relieve the druid of his burden.
"Dude! How'd you end up down here?" he asks incredulously. The cleric doesn't expect or wait for an immediate answer, as he busies himself with donning armor and performing a quick inventory on his belongings.
The blond man does shoot Gilan an occasional searching look, though, as if trying to figure out if he got himself a haircut or something.
Yanosh Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 2:27:07 PM
Hearing that it is a freind Yanosh cant put the name and face together. Gilan he thought was a bear or somesuch creature. But if he is a spell caster then that would explain things. But a freind is a freind anf this one needs help with the heavy load.
"Here let me help as well," the Dwarf cleric states as he steps forward to help unburden the 'Packmate. Finding his gear Yanosh dons his armour and backpack. Straping on his weapons and gear Yanosh finishes with strapping on his shield and grasping his Dwarven War Axe.
Once Yanosh is properly armed and amroured he turns and faces the Dome that is Rattledam. "Now lets go have a talk with that so called councilman Galafar. I'll show him the real meaning of 'beater'." Yanosh's anger flares at the treatment of his new 'Packmates. His knuckles crack as he grips his Axe.
Tishe' d20+14=24 ; Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 2:52:14 PM
Tishe' also gives Gilan an enthusiastic hug before getting her own gear organized about her person. "Thanks sweetie!", she says as she plants a kiss on his cheek.
DM Highlight to display spoiler: { Tishe' uses her physical contact (ie interaction) with 'Gilan' to make sure it is who he says he is and not some illusion or other spell (Will save: 24). She wants to be sure a monk isn't trying to be a plant in the Bloodpack. }
Soon, Tishe' has her equipment, Tacia, and Wart sorted to her liking, and casts Endure Elements (with Rod of Extension) upon herself, companion, and familiar. She then awaits Gilan's explanations and any words from Malafret. "We still haven't found out anymore about this force outside of the Sargrass trying to interfere with the natural order of things. If we can't find out any more from Malafret and the Council, let's go to another information source; the Manfri and scrying spells."
The plain-faced woman waits to see what kind of reaction her suggestion makes.
Vayine Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 5:00:46 PM
Vayine dons his armor, looking it over with an expert eye, poslishing any blemishes he finds. then he straps on his swords, and other various gear he had. lastly he strokes a supple black belt, its worn leather cracking in a few places, the brass rivits that help hold it together and add to the elegance, shine like tiny gems. fastening it on his waist. As the belt is fastened, Vayine flexes his muscles. a smile spreads across his face as the rush of magical energy fills his muscles with power.
Gilan Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 9:40:44 PM
The welcomes of some of his pack he takes in stride and returns the welcomes as best he can, laiden as he is. The hug from Tishe though leaves his face the brightest shade of red, but the kiss sets his ears to burning as well, and he can only stammer replies for awhile after that. "I saw the trial in the street and wanted to rush to my packs side...but it might have caused more problems." His smile widens and he shrugs. "Noone pays much attention to a mongrel in the dome of Rattledam and they speak freely." As the gear is slowly unloaded from his form he takes the few moments needed to relieve the pain and stiffness from his muscles. "Seeing that your gear was back inside the caverns and they were taking you straight out the front gate...I decided to not follow you that way and return throught the caves." You notice that when he smiles his canines are more pronounced than they were.
Gilan simply shrugs as he is soon releaved of all the extra gear that is not his already. As he sits his pack on the ground he starts to recoil back up the rope that had helped him to carry a lot of the gear. "I followed after you a day after you left." As he bends to pack up the rope in his pack he shakes his head. "I was helping to study the circle in the dome and we came to a disturbing discovery. There is a key for it that is missing and it does not appear that it was used to activate it again to leave." He waits for a few minutes as he smiles to the group, glad to be back. "So that would mean that the key is still here in the Plains and that news was too important to not bring to the pack." As he waits for the others to gain the rest of their gear and ready themselves he shrugs his own shoulders. He was feeling restless in this form and knew that he would need to search an animal skin to wear before long. "What is our next move Alpha." It is a strange thing to say and you realize that he has not even realized he just called Trellus an alpha.
Though his appearance is mostly the same the last time you saw him, there is a slight difference. The teeth, his hair being more wild even kept in the normal braid and the new look of wildness in his eyes. It is a sure sign that he has been going through some new changes and they do seem to fit him even better than before. Maybe he would be willing to talk about it sometime...he is sure to talk to Tishe about it if it is druid related. That is something that he has done ever night since he has met Tishe and she started down the path of the druid.
Flea Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 11:13:11 PM
Flea studies her friend. She had noticed changes in the druid before the last time he went walker, and now they are even more pronounced. She wonders what pull the wild of the plains has on her friend and has a secret concern that he might be going feral. She'll talk to Tishe' or Trellus about it later, if she remembers.
After greeting Gilan, the rogue checks that all her gear has been brought out, and starts to don her equipment.
"Lets get packed up and out of here!" she announces, not really having any idea where the pack should go. Maybe Oddholme.
"Tell us more about this key, Gilan?" she asks. "Is it a real key or is that just some clue?"
Grymash d20+2=19 ; Tuesday June 3rd, 2008 11:22:01 PM "Be bout time Gilan be back." With that being said, Grymash give the druid a sound whack on the back with the palm of his large hand. "Gute dat yooz no need ta carry Gry's gear. Gilan maybe no make it out!" (Spot 19) Grymash does seem to notice the subtle changes in Gilan's appearance. This is very strange indeed. Maybe the beast is taking over the man. The Sargrass has been known to do such things. Now that his pack, no wait ... clan ... uh, tribe, oh whatever they are now, have finally left the nest, he wonders what changes will happen to them. Sharper teeth and fangs would be nice.
A cry for help... [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday June 4th, 2008 4:05:51 AM
When unexpectedly Gilan emerges heavily loaded from the tunnels no one can believe their eyes!! How in the Wold did he end up here at this precise moment... ?!?
Olaf blushes at his concern but he very much appreciate the fortuitous timing. Vayine rushes out the tiny hut to help Gilan and thanks the druid for securing their gear. Trellus too is delighted at the sight of his old friend and wonders how he ended up here... Happy to get all his belongings back Yanosh straps on his weapons, armor and gear feeling a lot better once he's finished. He's so confident he feels ready to take on the council and every beater they can send after them...
Tishe' gives Gilan a warm and gives him a kiss on the cheek and somehow feels it really is him... reassured Tishe' sorts her equipment and prepares herself to head out and suggest finding the Manfri in order to find out more of this 'outside' source...
Vayine too smiles as he feels the magic of his gear rushing through his muscles again and like Yanosh feels he is ready to take on the Wold.
Relieved to get rid of all the excess gear and to have found is friends right here at the tunnel exit Gilan begins to explain how he got here at this precise moment. He explains how he saw his pack mates being escorted through the streets of Rattledam and how he had to fight against his inner self not to rush in to stand proud with his mates. Having seen their gear in the tunnels when he himself entered the city he realized they would be thrown out of town without their belongings and he was the only one to get their stuff.
Gilan also tells what he learnt about the portal in OddHolme. Some key piece of the portal seems to be missing or as Gilan says the one that came through the portal must have taken the key piece with him... her... it... whatever?
It's obvious for most that Gilan has undergone some changes... he seems to be more feral than before and naming Trellus the Alpha of the Bloodpack makes him realize for himself that indeed the changes are going further than he first thought...
Flea studies the changes in her friend and after donning all her gear she suggest to head out and leave this place... Gry is happy to see Gilan's back and chuckles the druid was lucky not having to carry Gry's gear. He too wonders how far the changes in Gilan will eventually go...
And then the group falls silent... where to go?!? The Bloodpack's Alpha has not made any suggestions yet.
"NOO No... AAAR... HELP ... AAArrrghhhh"
Now THAT unmistakably was Malafret's voice crying out from the tunnels!! No one warned her that Gilan had already retrieved all gear!! She must have entered the caves after him... but... why is she crying for help!!!
Olaf d20+15=31 ; Wednesday June 4th, 2008 7:11:13 AM
Olaf says to Trellus, "I'm thinkin' Malafret's be needin' some help. I'm ready to scout ahead w' Flea an' see wat's wat, if you want." He seems reluctant and uncertain about Gilan, whom he has travelled with only briefly, and seems eager to be of aid to the pack in a less socially awkward way. If so directed by Trellus, he starts scouting down the tunnel (Hide 31).
Tishe' Wednesday June 4th, 2008 1:53:08 PM
The plain-faced woman hardly notices Gilan's blushes or specific changes, happy to see that it is truley Gilan and not an illusion. "You are looking more like Cirian", is all she says, fondly rubbing the wolf's head. Then her eyebrow goes up and her head tilts to one side. There is something going on, and that perks Tishe's legendary curiosity.
But the screams tear the mystic away from what she was thinking.
"We need to help, but it may also be a trick to get us to enter Rattledam and be outcast.", points out Tishe'. Not having a thought of what to do, she looks to Trellus for resolution.
Vayine Wednesday June 4th, 2008 4:16:15 PM
I have an idea, its risky, but it will play to Gry's and myselfs strengths. Gry and I could rush the tunnel. I have a functioning gem and I could funtion as a scout as well. mean while the rest of you flank the tunnel with stealth. we do what we can. it its to much then we work from there, but to lose our only ally in the counsil would be a major lose.
Vayine thrusts his glittering sword in the air and holds his sheild to his chest thumping the metal edge against his brestplate and looks to Gry. "What say you might Gry, shall we save the damsel and relieve our frustration.?"
Yanosh Wednesday June 4th, 2008 4:22:30 PM
Not wanting to rush into a trap but not wanting to cause the 'Pack anymore trouble Yanosh stands his ground and waits for the rest. "If that is our only friend then we must do something."
Highlight to display spoiler: { Spells Prepared Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Flea (Low light vision) d20+14=28 ; d20+23=31 ; Wednesday June 4th, 2008 8:01:28 PM
Flea is ready to rush down the tunnel with Olaf, and Yanosh, true and trusted new friends.
However, when Vayine suggests an alternative, the rogue is all curiousity.
"Let's do it!" she says, pulling her holy short sword and pointing it at the half-orc and the drow. "Yanosh, Olaf, and I will be right behind you!" Flea nods to the dwarf, and is ready to go...at a trot...after Vayine and the half-orc.
Move silently=28 Hide=31
Gilan[wildshape: bat] Wednesday June 4th, 2008 9:21:35 PM
Gilan simply shrugs as he thinks over it a little. "We are not sure exactly what form the key takes...but there is a piece missing in what we determine to be a lock on the circle. We are not sure if it is a glyph that must be drawn in or something that must be inserted in the space that is blank." His head swivels with the sounds of screams coming from the tunnel.
He knows that voice and he is instantly turning to move towards the tunnel entrance. Though you figure he would have learned from being rash in the past...it does not seem that way. His instincts have kicked in and he is moving towards the entrance to the tunnel, moving around and past the others if they are not moving fast enough. His form is already rippling as he moves and you are not too sure what will be revealed when he is done...but it does appear to have wings.
A cry for help 2... [ADM StevenVdB] d20=19 ; d20=3 ; d20+13=18 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 12:58:37 AM Tishe' hardly notices any changes as she gives him a peck on the cheek and is happy to admit she's convinced it is indeed Gilan. He in turn explains a bit more about the key piece that is missing on the portals. Then suddenly they all hear Malafret's voice!
Hearing the cries Olaf decide on the double to move into the tunnels and scout ahead of the pack. Gilan runs in after Olaf as he shape changes into a bat like figure. Flea too follows Olaf.
Yanosh does not want to rush into a trap and stands his ground waiting for the others to decide. Hoping Gry will join him, Vayine suggest the Half-Orc Barbarian to save the damsel in distress... but the large brute remains silent... as if he's waiting for Trellus to decide what to do. But like Gry, Trellus too remains silent. Wondering what to do... on the one hand perhaps it is an obvious trap... on the other that clearly was Malafret's voice... after all, the blond cleric did call for her! How could anyone know that?!? Tishe' feels it might be a trap to have them enter Rattledam again and become outcasts as they do and so she also seeks guidance with their leader.
Meanwhile, Gilan flies down the tunnel and Olaf and Flea walk down in silence (though at full speed accepting penalties from doing so)
Gilan, Olaf, Flea Highlight to display spoiler: {
Gilan is the first to fly into the familiar cave. Close to the water a cloaked figure stands over Malafret's body. By the sound of it she's not dead for he speaks to her. As the figure hears the bat wings he looks up towards the tunnel wondering what bat flies at day...
Olaf and Flea gather at the front entrance of the cave and also see the wizard standing close to the water... (still 70ft from you - rolled move silently for Olaf: 18)
The wizards notices the bat but doesn't pay too much attention to it. He fails to notice Flea and Olaf.
"Well well Malafret... it appears your goons aren't coming to 'save' you..." he says and makes a few arcane signs with his hands. (Spellcraft DC16 to learn what spell he has cast)
Olaf, Gilan and Flea can clearly hear Malafret moan in pain... she's still alive!
Please make any check you feel appropriate. Gilan, if you fly through the cave give me an idea of your flight path.
Olaf d20+10=17 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 6:35:52 AM
Olaf doesn't like the look of things in the cave, and takes a (stealthed) move to N9, checking for traps. [search 17].
Yanosh Thursday June 5th, 2008 4:33:43 PM
Yanosh rushes into he cave with the others. Now this is what he has been waiting for. ACTION at last. Axe at the ready and sheid up for protection the Dwarven cleric calls for the blessings of Gargul.
Spell cast Bless +1 to hit
Highlight to display spoiler: {Spells Prepared Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless*, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
2 Shadow Conjuration, Cure Moderate }
Trellus Thursday June 5th, 2008 4:41:54 PM
Gilan's response breaks Trellus from his reverie.
"We help," he responds. "Let's move, fast. Yanosh and Gry follow Gilan. Flea and Olaf, call out if anything looks too bright.
Waving to Tishe, the cleric follows.
Gilan[wildshape: bat] d20+15=20 ; d20+10=26 ; d20+10=22 ; Thursday June 5th, 2008 6:34:26 PM
Gilan flies a haphazard pattern around the higher ceiling of the cave. His erratic pattern is intended to lend the idea that he has been disturbed by the sudden loud noise in the cave and is trying to find a new place to roost.
Still, while he is flying around, he is looking around for signs of others that might be hidden inside the cave as well. After a bit of frantic flying he will find a nice place to finally bed down on the cavern ceiling and wait for the right time to spring his own trap.
[spellcraft: 20, listen: 26, spot: 22]
*fly a sort of zigzag pattern around the cave a little, not getting within twenty feet of the wizard though. will then perch a good twenty feet from him and to the right side*
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 61/61) Thursday June 5th, 2008 7:04:45 PM "We help", says Trellus
Free from worry, Tishe' casts Shield on herself, waits for the others to jump into the tunnel and then the mystic and her dog follow.
Vayine Thursday June 5th, 2008 8:57:55 PM
Hearing no commands for himself, the Drow rushs full speed into the cave, his sheild raised to protect him from anything flying out to meet him. Vayine hopes that his mad rush will distract what ever is attacking the woman, as well as distract the attacker or attackers from his friends using the shadows.
when he sees the attacker the drow yells in Drow. " Elthinth Coldrin dues tow din caresis dest ki" I am the Hand of death, by my blade you shall fall.
OOC: Does anyone have a translator site or anything they would prefer I use for elvish?
Grymash Friday June 6th, 2008 11:06:49 AM
That's all Grymash needed to hear. They were so close to leaving this place, but now they were going back in. Great! However, this is Malafret, one of their true friends ... or at least he hopes. He is having a hard time trusting anyone right now, especially a council member. He pulls out his double ax and heads on in. His darkvision quickly becoming adjusted to the darkness.
What was to be expected... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+12=29 ; d6=1 ; 4d6=15 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+12=16 ; 2d6+5=14 ; d20+7=22 ; 8d6=37 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 1:14:10 PM
Not trusting the look of things Olaf decides to sneak towards the tunnel exit. The faint noises he makes are loudly covered by the sound of a dwarf master named Yanosh rushing down the tunnels happy to find some action at last...
Gilan flies a haphazard pattern around the ceiling.
Gilan Highlight to display spoiler: { you see several enemies hiding behind the rocks in the caves... 2 are hiding behind the lower right rock formation... 1 archer is hiding behind the upper right formation and 3 more are lurking behind the left formation... there's even one crouching above the tunnel entrance ready to jump on whoever comes into the cave!! Looks like our friendly guy near the water has plenty of help standing ready to jump on your friends... if only you could have warned them before they came rushing into the cave)}
Trellus breaking free from his daydream decides to help Malafret and has everyone rushing down the tunnel. Yanosh and Gry take the lead and enter the cave first... Olaf hides near the entrance... Tishe' and Trellus close ranks and find Flea lurking in the tunnels without moving...
Vayine however rushes down the tunnel and runs past Gry and Yanosh shouting drow at the man close to the water...
Suddenly the Drow warrior feels a terrible stinging pain in his chest... (Bolt hits AC29 -- damage 1HP + 15HP sneak attack = total damage 16HP)
Still feeling the pain of the bolt a warrior springs from behind the lower right rock formation wielding a great sword!
The first strike hits hard causing drow blood to splatter all around... the second strike clangs from Vayine's armor without further harming the warrior. (Strike 1 hits AC31 -- no critical -- damage 14Hp) (Strike 2 hits AC22 -- fails)
Another warrior is hiding behind the same formation but she appears to be waiting for the rest of the pack before springing into action...
The wizard close to the water smiles and laughs at Vayine's feeble threats as he sees blood flow from the Drow's armor...
He spreads his hands and throws a tiny bead of gold towards the cave entrance... A massive explosion follows right in the middle of the Bloodpack engulfing all but Gilan Bat and Vayine!! (Fireball Damage 37 -- reflex DC 17 for half)
Malafret lies on the ground crying : "I could not find your gear... I'm sorry..."
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 24/61) d20+7=15 ; d20+7=14 ; d100=81 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+4=8 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+9=22 ; d20+18=30 ; d8+6=8 ; d8+3=5 ; Friday June 6th, 2008 6:12:19 PM
Heat rolls through the tunnel and scalds Tishe's skin (Reflex:15 fail) and does even worse to Tacia (Reflex: 14 fai): the loyal dog who stayed five feet from Tishe' takes a lungful of flame and dies (-11 hp). She has no time for sorrow, no time for kicking herself about the well-planned ambush; she has packmates to help!
Skin crackling, the plain-faced mystic pushes her hand in her pocket (free action) and pulls out a new bag from which she pulls a little fuzzy ball (standard action) and throws it into the cave ahead (at L,8). Instantly, the fuzzy ball enlarges to become an orange-and-black striped Tiger. "Attack!" yells Tishe' as she backs up further into the tunnel. (move action walk backwards to S,8)
The Tiger roars and springs to the closest enemy, the greatsword wielder against Vayine. Making a pouncing attack the large claws seek to rend and tear. A single claw possibly gets through the enemies' defense (AC 26?) allowing a modicum of damage (hp 8), but also allowing the large Tiger to pull the man close (Grapple: 30) where his Greatsword is of little use!
(Claw AC 26 Dam 8, Claw AC 18, Bite AC 8, Rend AC 11, Rend AC 22 Dam 5) Grapple Check:30 +14 for Tiger grapple and +4 for large v medium)
Spells and Effects
Bag of Tricks - Tiger [AC 14, HP 45/45, A 2 claws +9 (d8+6) and bite +4 melee (2d6+3), improved grab, pounce, rake (2 rake +9 (d8+3)] Endure Elements - 48 hours, shared Shield
Gilan[HP: 128/128 - AC: 34][wildshape: remorhaz] Friday June 6th, 2008 8:03:07 PM
Gilan winces with the eruption of the fireball and feels angered that he could not warn his pack of the danger that they were coming into. If only he had someway to communicate with them through magic. His anger is going higher and he knows that he will act and very soon.
Seeing that his pack is in serious trouble and they will be needing his help really soon he flies back around the pillar. Once back around his body begins to lose the shape of a bat and starts to take on that of a rather huge worm. When his change is fully taken effect, there will be a huge remorhaz ten feet from the wizard near the pool.
{Location D6, finishing shapechange some ten feet from the floor}
warning... [ADM StevenVdB] Sunday June 8th, 2008 12:15:50 PM
only 2 have posted my friends with merely 12 hours from the next ADM post... please enter your post asap!! You're not going to give our friendly ambush gang a second turn of fun are you??!!??
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) d20+10=25 ; d8+11=14 ; Sunday June 8th, 2008 12:29:33 PM
[Reflex 25]
Apparently, watching Murdock chuck all those small beads taught Trellus something. The cleric instinctively ducks at the sight of one whirling toward him, avoiding the worst of the damage.
Like the rest of the Bloodpack, he reacts, snapping off a prepared defensive spell, and then attempting to heal some of the damage.
[Cast Quickened Shield of Faith]
[Spontaneously cast Mass Cure Light Wounds over Spell Resistance. Heal everyone hit by the Fireball for 14 hp damage]
---------- Spells Prepared Highlight to display spoiler: { (caster level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell 0 - Create Water (x2), Detect Magic (x2), Guidance, Read Magic 1 -- Endure Elements (x3), Remove Fear (x2), Shield of Faith, Enlarge Person (d) 2 -- Lesser Restoration (x2), Resist Energy(fire), Resist Energy(elec), Hold Person, Status, Bulls Strength (d) 3 - Dispel Magic(x2), Prayer, Searing Light, Magic Vestment(d) 4 --Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Inflict Crit Wounds, *Sending, Spell Immunity (d) 5 -- Flame Strike, *Shield of Faith (Quickened), True Seeing, *Spell Resistance (d) }
Yanosh AC 20--HP53/76 d20+5=13 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+9=13 ; d10+3=13 ; d10+3=13 ; d10+3=8 ; Sunday June 8th, 2008 1:55:38 PM
Yanosh rushes heedlessly into the fireball. Screaming in pain the Dwarf staggers only a little when Trellus's healing overcomes him. Yanosh charges the one with the great sword. The War Axe swings down in an arc crashing into the owner of the Sword. "Now you Die by my Axe."
Reflex save 13 (failed) Hit AC 29 (Crit threat Check AC 13) Dmg 13 (Crit Dmg 34 if aplicable)
Vayine d20+17=37 ; d20+14=26 ; d10+10=18 ; d10+10=18 ; Sunday June 8th, 2008 4:06:42 PM
Vayine surges towards the swordsman and attacks.
Vayines attacks hit AC 37 for 18 damage attack 2 hits AC 26 for 18 damage.
Fort. save for wounding ability or take con. damage.
Flea (AC 21+1 Hasted, 39/62 HP) Evasion d20+12=14+1 (Hasted)=15 d20+13=31 d8+1=7 d20+17=25 Monday June 9th, 2008 1:01:02 AM
Flea clicks the heels of her boots together, but even their magic does not permit her sufficient relexes to evade the ball of fire (Reflex=15, fail). The cleric's blessing helps a little.
Short sword in one hand, she feels for her wands with the other. The rogue runs to the fallen druid, tumbling to avoid any opponents if necessary (Tumble=25). If there is sufficient time, she will activate the wand of healing (UMD=31, 7 pts. healing - target Malafret)
DM Sanity Info:
Boots of Speed 1/10 p. 250 DMG Left hand: Wand (Cure Light wounds) 40/50 charges remaining
Position: as close to Malafret as possible.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday June 9th, 2008 1:02:05 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of June 2 - June 8
Being just recently exiled the Bloodpack is hiding in a Tiny Hut close to the tunnel entrance of Rattledam knowing that Malafret is going to retrieve their gear. When suddenly they here something everyone expects to see Malafret popping out of the tunnels but much to their surprise Gilan emerges!! Welcome back Gelan!!!
Baffeled by his sudden return the group forgets about Malafret untill they suddenly hear her crying for help from inside the tunnels. Not hesitating a second the group moves in... A lone wizard is waiting for them... Gilan is able to see that several warriors are waiting for our friends but the Bloodpack is too eager to get some action... the trap opens and Vayine takes several painful hits while the rest of the pack is engulfed in flames...
A "Warm" welcome to Gilan indeed... Seeing his friends being bbq'd in honor of his return Gilan changes into a Remorhaz...
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Cave Battle 1 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d8+6=12 ; d20=6 ; d20=17 ; 4d6=16 ; 4d6=12 ; d20+12=19 ; d20+11=21 ; d12+7=14 ; d20+6=20 ; d12+7=12 ; d20+10=28 ; 2d6+6=12 ; d20+11=20 ; 2d4+5=9 ; 2d6=5 ; d20+10=27 ; d20+10=23 ; d6-2=-1 ; 4d6=13 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 4:11:00 AM
As the fireball crashes into the Bloodpack painful burns adorn the skin of our friends. Sadly Tishe' looses her beloved dog as it takes a lungful of flames... But there will be a time for mourning the loss. Now she has to think of her pack mates. The mystic tosses a furry ball that immediately turns into a viciously looking tiger... Tishe' retreats in the tunnel as she commands the tiger to attack the human fighter (2) that attacked Vayine...
Yanosh staggers only a little thanks to Trellus's healing magic and charges the fighter that attacked Vayine as well (2). A well angled axe slices a chunk out of the warriors hide armor delivering a bloody gash in his side... the man winces in pain from all the attacks and to make things worse he is grappled by the Tiger (grapple DC : 13)
Gilan feels angered that he could not warn his pack of the danger they were heading into. Seeing the serious trouble they are in he flies around the pillar and shape changes once again. Upon completion a huge Remorhaz waits merely 10ft away from the wizard... (1) The wizard staggers as he sees the huge worm with faceted eyes and its jagged teeth...
Moving 5ft closer to the water 2 fiery rays blast from the wizards fingers scorching the Gilan Remorhaz...
(ray 1 hits Touch AC10 -- damage 16 -- rolled a 6 but forgot the +4 bab the wizard had) (ray 2 hits Touch AC16 -- damage 12 -- as above) (total damage 28 -- (ooc: I could be wrong but I think when shape changing you retain your wis, Cha and Int but take str, con and dex from the creature. You also keep your own HP's but take the creatures AC and AC to touch. The AC34 in your headline seems incredibly high... care to explain to me how you got that? In your char sheet you have a few armor items marked with 'wild' don't know the description of these)
Trellus apparently learnt something of Murdock's use of Fireballs as he's able to avoid worst of the damage. Casting a spell to protect his limbs somewhat better first he then attempts to heal his pack mates with a CLW spell...
Vayine -- quickly recovering from his wounds (please put your AC and HP's in your name) -- surges towards the swordsman and attacks Hitting the warrior twice with a few very skillful blows... The warrior goes limp in the Tigers embrace...
Clicking the heels of her boots together Flea hopes to avoid the fireball but fails miserably. Luckily Trellus's healing helps a little. Flea runs forward hoping to get close to Malafret to heal her. Kneeling next to a dying Malafret Flea activates the wand and touches Malafret stabilizing her wounds... Flea just saved her on the brink of death (-2HP's)
Olaf and Gry despite the fire appear to be frozen...
The female druid (3) behind the lower right rock formation begins to wave her hands and speaks some mumbo jumbo... spellcraft DC19 Highlight to display spoiler: {Summon Nature's Ally IV}
The Halfling Rogue (4) sees Flea kneeling next to Malafret. Flea never noticed the Halfling and while administering the healing wand she feels the thump bolt hitting her in the back but the bolt fails to get through her armor... (bolt hits AC19) The Rogue turns around the rock formation out of sight...
Gilan knew another 3 goons were hiding behind the left formation yet he decided to turn into the Remorhaz at that exact position...
All three warriors turn pale as they behold the magical beast and fight.
Human Fighter (7) raises his +1 greataxe and begins to bash Gilan Remorhaz (axe strike 1 hits AC21 -- damage 14Hp -- hits remorhaz AC) (axe strike 2 hits AC20 -- damage 12Hp -- hits remorhaz AC)
Human Fighter (5) flanks Gilan Remorhaz wielding a greatsword (sword hits AC28 -- damage 12Hp -- hits remorhaz AC)
Human Barbarian/Rogue (6) sneaks up behind Gilan Remorhaz trying to plunge the sharp point or a well balanced scythe deep into the Remorhaz in front of him... (Scythe hits AC20 -- damage 9HP + 5HP sneak attack -- hits remorhaz AC
(ooc if correct about the remorhaz AC Gilan looses a total of 80HP )
In all this frenzy Gry remains frozen near the tunnel entrance... however a sneaky fellow had been hiding above the tunnel entrance waiting for the last ones to enter the cave... since no more seem to enter he jumps down behind Gry... (tumble: 27) And plunges his keen rapier into the Half-Orc. (keen rapier hits AC23 -- damage 1HP + 13HP Sneak attack)
1 : Human Wizard: AC15+4 shield spell -- Quarterstaff -- damage taken : 0 2 : Human Fighter: AC17 -- Hide Armor -- +1 Greatsword - damage taken : 8+12+5+13+18+18 = 74 -- DEAD 3 : Half-Elf Druid : AC16 - leather + 2 amulet of natural armor -- damage taken : 0 4 : Halfling Rogue : AC19 - leather + 2 ring of protection -- Crossbow - damage taken : 0 5 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor -- Greatsword - damage taken : 0 6 : Human Barbarian/Rogue : AC17 -- studded + cloak of resistance +1 -- Scythe - damage taken : 0 7 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor - +1 Greataxe -- damage taken : 0 8 : Human Rogue : AC18 -- leather + 2 ring of protection -- Keen Rapier -- damage taken : 0
Olaf (AC 22, HP 58/58) d20+8=28 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 8:34:29 AM
Olaf rolls under the ball of fire, easily escaping any harm (Reflex save 28). Sneaking forward to N12 (20' movement past Gry while stealthed; regular is 40'), Olaf attempts to disrupt the Druid's casting by casting silence on a black-fletched arrow he pulls out to hold in his buckler hand.
[Spells memorized (see Feb 18th post); *=cast: 0 Level (5): Guidance, Mending, Resistance, Toros's Taur Try (x2, 1 cast) 1 Level (4+1): Bless, [D]Disguise Self, Magic Weapon, Obscuring Mist, Protection from Evil* 2 Level (3+1): Darkness, Hold Person (DC:16), [D]Invisibility, Silence (cast this turn) 3 Level (2+1): Deeper Darkness*, [D]Nondetection, Stone Shape]
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 24/61) d20+9=20 ; d20+9=11 ; d20+9=23 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+18=20 ; d8+6=13 ; 2d6+3=8 ; d8+3=11 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 10:00:15 AM
The Tiger snarls at his dead prey, but there are others that he must still attack. Launching himself across the cave, the Tiger bowls into the next closest enemy, the druid (#3). A frenzy of claws and bites leaves two deep scratches and a set of teeth marks in the druid, and the Tiger drags down his second prey in a dozen seconds.
(Claw AC 20 Dam 13, Claw AC 11, Bite AC 17 Dam 8, Rend AC 23 Dam 11, Rend AC 10 Grapple Check:20) (Total v #3 Druid: 32 Damage and Grappled)
Tishe' sees the man jump down and slice into Grymash, but she is certain that between Grymash, Trellus, and Olaf that the man will soon be on the ground. Her job is to bring in some additional support. "Once our back is covered", she tells herself. She turns around and plunges her hand into her spell components pouch coming up with a small bit of spiderweb. Soon, 40 feet of the back tunnel to the outside is criss-crossed with sticky impassible Webs. (Cast Web)
"And now that nobody else will surprise us, let's weave in some friends", she tells the familiar in her satchel.
Spells and Effects
Web; 20 foot radius; Reflex DC 17 or entangled; 10 or more of webs = total cover Bag of Tricks - Tiger [AC 14, HP 45/45, A 2 claws +9 (d8+6) and bite +4 melee (2d6+3), improved grab, pounce, rake (2 rake +9 (d8+3)] Endure Elements - 48 hours, shared Shield; +4 AC
Yanosh AC 20--HP53/76 d20+9=27 ; d10+3=11 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 11:17:42 AM
Seeing the Tiger attacking the next one Yanosh rushes to back up Flea and Gilan (D-10). Axe at the ready he swings at the Wizard. His Axe finds its way home and sinks into the flesh of the human. The burned and blood coverd face of the Dwarf snarls in rage at the one threatening his friends.
Hit AC27 Dmg 11
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) Monday June 9th, 2008 1:15:07 PM
"Gilan! Jump right!" calls the cleric.
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) d20+8=14 ; 5d8=18 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 8:06:12 PM
Trellus waits only a heartbeat for his friend to comply with his shout. For whatever reason, Gilan doesn't.
The cleric immediately shifts mental threads.
He casts a spell, sending a ray of white light streaking toward the wizard.
[Searing Light. Ranged touch attack hits ac14 for 18 hp damage]
------------- Spells Prepared Highlight to display spoiler: { (caster level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell 0 - Create Water (x2), Detect Magic (x2), Guidance, Read Magic 1 -- Endure Elements (x3), Remove Fear (x2), Shield of Faith, Enlarge Person (d) 2 -- Lesser Restoration (x2), Resist Energy(fire), Resist Energy(elec), Hold Person, Status, Bulls Strength (d) 3 - Dispel Magic(x2), Prayer, *Searing Light, Magic Vestment(d) 4 --Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Inflict Crit Wounds, *Sending, Spell Immunity (d) 5 -- Flame Strike, *Shield of Faith (Quickened), True Seeing, *Spell Resistance (d) }
Grymash (ac25. hp114/115. haste) d20+18=23 ; d20+16=30 ; d20+16=21 ; d20+11=18 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=18 ; d8+11=19 ; d8+8=15 ; d8+4=10 ; d8+8=10 ; d8+4=12 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 8:08:09 PM "Theres yooz be!! Dat be bad for yooz!!" Grymash gives his boots a kick and lets loose with his double axe on the poor unfortunate fool who dared to attacked him. (boots of speed)
(Two weapon fighting. Attack1: HitAC 24. Damage 19. Attack2: HitAC 31. Damage 15. Attack3: HitAC 22. Damage 10. Attack4: HitAC 19. Damage 10. Attack5: HitAC 15. Damage 12. Rolls suck! I forgot to add +1 for Haste in my Hit rolls. Wounding weapon: Each hit causes -1 Con damage.)
(Plus, i dont believe Gry was sneak attacked. Gry has Uncanny Dodge and is never considered Flatfooted. Nor is he flanked in this situation, so the rogue couldn't use his sneak attack ability.)
Gilan[HP: 100/128 - AC: 34][wildshape: remorhaz] d20+12=17 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+22=24 ; d20+22=40 ; 3d8+12=32 ; 3d8+12=32 ; Monday June 9th, 2008 8:43:58 PM
Gilan, now a remorhaz, is more than happy to allow these gnats to swat at his protected hide. The only one that gets through his defenses is the wizard who is smart enough to use magic on him. The two bolts of searing flame tear into his flesh and makes him emit a piercing scream in pain.
Still this only intices the druid/shifter to send his jaws in at the poor wizard, who happens to be within his reach. Jaws snap shut at the wizard and attempt to keep a hold upon the man...effectively grappling him in his mouth.
[hit: 17/21 and damage: 32/32and grapple: 24/40]
[AC Notes 10 base + 1 dex + 7 armor + 5 shield + 11 natural = 34 or 33 if flat-footed and 11 if touch]
[Wild: The wearer of a suit of armor or a shield with this ability preserves his armor bonus (and any enhancement bonus) while in a wild shape. Armor and shields with this ability usually appear to be made covered in leaf patterns. While the wearer is in a wild shape, the armor cannot be seen.]
Flea (AC 21+1 Hasted, 39/62 HP) Evasion d20+13=17 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 1:28:39 AM
Once again Flea tries to activate the wand, but this time it fizzles! (UMD=17)
"Oh no! Oh no!" she repeats frantically, as she stands over the body of the fallen druid, her wand in one hand her holy short sword in the other.
Position: (having some trouble understanding where Flea is in relation to Malafret) 9E?
DM Sanity:
Wand of CLW 39/50 charges remaining
Cave Battle 2 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+11=28 ; d6=6 ; 4d6=11 ; d20+9=14 ; d8+6=10 ; d20+11=28 ; d20+6=19 ; d20+10=24 ; d20+13=28 ; d20+8=23 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 2:10:20 AM
Evading the blistering heat from the fireball Olaf sneaks closer to the Druid with a silence spell activated on a black-fletched arrow... Within the same silence Tishe's tiger bowls into the druid. As the tiger gashes the sides of the poor woman its claws become drenched in blood. Enraged by the metallic smell the Tiger hurls himself upon the druid effectively grappling her. Luckily Olaf's silence spell keeps the sound of gnawing jaws and snapping bones from you... If it hadn't been for Olaf's silence spell the Druid could never have completed her spell anyhow due to the Tiger.
To ensure no one sneaks up behind them Tishe' covers the exit of the tunnel in sticky strands. Then she prepares to bring in some more friends...
Yanosh hustles towards Flea and Gilan and swings his axe at the wizard. The axe sinks deep into the wizard making him whine in agony...
Trellus tries to warn Gilan to get out of the way but the silence keeps him from getting Gilan to react to him. Next the cleric attempts to cast a spell but again the arrow bestowed with the silence spell is keeping the vocal component of the Searing Light spell to work... there would not have been a clear line of sight either should the spell have been successful... (spell is used never the less)
Slightly annoyed by the bee sting he felt behind him Gry makes his double axe sing... words can not describe the sight of what happens next... The human rogue is literally cut to pieces and instantly dies in a puddle of blood... (ooc you're right about the sneak attack)
The huge Remorhaz can't be dented by the puny fighters that try to hurt him. Only the Wizards magic could... screaming in pain the Remorhaz sends his jaws at the poor wizard... The jaw snaps shut and bite the wizard in half... the bone chilling cries from the wizard send chills down your spines... What remains of the wizard falls to the ground. (ooc thanks for explaining you AC and the Wild description)
Flea, still taking care for Malafret fails to activate her wand. Panicking she no longer pays attention to the battle. She moves her head close to Malafret's pale face. In a state of fever the councilor speaks to the little gnome ... (ooc yes Malafret lies at D9 -- couldn't find a miniature of a dying councilor ;-) )
"could not find your gear... sorry... Find the Manfri... they know what lies... what is... beneath... rattledam... the source of the plains... terrible power... secret... under... rattledam...find the Manfri "
Seeing the battle evolve in their favor Vayine remains in place checking where he might be most needed.
The small rogue (4) comes peeking from behind the rock formation and sees how Flea tries to talk to Malafret... the battle is turning against them and the Bloodpack can not be allowed to talk to the councilor... the orders were clear...
Aiming well the Halfling fires a deadly bolt at the feverish body of Malafret and kills the councilor... Malafret dies in Flea's arms... (bolt hits AC28 -- damage 4+11 = 15)
Then, having completed 50% of his mission and knowing they can not destroy the Bloodpack, the Halfling dives into the water and vanishes from sight.
The Female Druid being grappled by a Tiger convulses as her body changes into something else... only a few seconds later there are two tigers fighting each other. The Grapple DC of the Tiger is 10 + 4 BAB + 4 improved Grapple + 6 Str +4 size = 28 which makes Tishe's Tiger fail to hold the shape changed druid.
The Tiger Druid (4) then attacks Tishe's tiger... (Claw hits AC14 -- damage 10HP)
Seeing their leader being bitten in half the three warriors fighting Gilan turn pale yet their orders were clear... kill the Bloodpack or don't come back...
Fighter (7) raises his great axe once again and tries to cut through the thick hide of the pesky worm but fails miserably. (axe strike 1 hits AC28) (axe strike 2 hits AC19)
Fighter (5) swings his great sword but the vibrations from the bash on the Remorhaz's hide only make his teeth click together... (strike 1 hits AC24)
Barbarian/Rogue (6) goes into a rage as he understands the battle is almost lost and this Worm is going to eat'm all... He raises his scythe and in a rage he smashes it into the Remorhaz only to see it bounce of the Remorhaz's armor. (Scythe strike 1 hits AC28) (Scythe strike 2 hits AC23)
1 : Human Wizard: AC15+4 shield spell -- Quarterstaff -- damage taken : 11 + 32 = 43 -- DEAD 2 : Human Fighter: AC17 -- Hide Armor -- +1 Greatsword -- damage taken : 8+12+5+13+18+18 = 74 -- DEAD 3 : Half-Elf Druid : AC16 -- leather + 2 amulet of natural armor -- damage taken : 13+8+11 = 32 4 : Halfling Rogue : AC19 -- leather + 2 ring of protection -- Crossbow -- damage taken : 0 - ESCAPED 5 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor -- Greatsword -- damage taken : 0 6 : Human Barbarian/Rogue : AC17 -- studded + cloak of resistance +1 -- Scythe - damage taken : 0 7 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor -- +1 Greataxe -- damage taken : 0 8 : Human Rogue : AC18 -- leather + 2 ring of protection -- Keen Rapier -- damage taken : 19+15+10+10 = 54 -- DEAD
Olaf (AC 22, HP 58/58) d20+10=14 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 8:15:55 AM
Seeing that the fight is nearly over, Olaf closes with the shifted half-elven druid, attempting to flank (moves to J14), and with a silent bellow, tries to lay into the tiger's side with his plainly-worked sickle, missing (hit AC 14).
Vayine AC26 HP 52/82 (endure elements) d20+17=28 ; d20+14=18 ; d10+10=13 ; d10+10=16 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 11:06:58 AM
enraged at the wounds he has suffered, the death of their ally, and the fleeing halfing. Vayine launches himself at his nearest foe. (sorry the map won't open for some reason today.)
Attack 1 hits AC 28 for 13 damage Attack 2 hits AC 18 for 16 damage
any wounds result in loss of Con. due to wounding.
Yanosh AC 20--HP53/76 d20+10=12 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 12:34:57 PM
Watching the death of the wizard Yanosh turns next to the Human warrior(#5). Quickly the Dwarf Cleric moves to engage him (D-5). War Axe raised. His burned visage snarls through his chared scarf. His Axe cuts the air in front of the Warior as he misses by far.
Hit Ac 12 (was a nat 2)
(OoC I just remembered Yanosh cast Bless as he entered the cavern. Everyone gets a +1 to hit. Duh sorry I Forgot everyone.)
Highlight to display spoiler: { spells cast bless
spells Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless*, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) Tuesday June 10th, 2008 1:28:32 PM
Trellus frowns as the silence of the area makes it plain his spell has failed. He looks around for the source, and notes he can hear right when Olaf moves off.
He shoots the rogue a sour look, which is quickly replaced by near panic at the sight of Flea crouching over Malafret. In the confusion, its the first time he's noticed them.
Quickly, the blond cleric rushes forward, intent on helping the Councilor. [Move to E10]
Spells Prepared Highlight to display spoiler: { (caster level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell 0 - Create Water (x2), Detect Magic (x2), Guidance, Read Magic 1 -- Endure Elements (x3), Remove Fear (x2), Shield of Faith, Enlarge Person (d) 2 -- Lesser Restoration (x2), Resist Energy(fire), Resist Energy(elec), Hold Person, Status, Bulls Strength (d) 3 - Dispel Magic(x2), Prayer, *Searing Light, Magic Vestment(d) 4 --Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Inflict Crit Wounds, *Sending, Spell Immunity (d) 5 -- Flame Strike, *Shield of Faith (Quickened), True Seeing, *Spell Resistance (d) }
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 24/61) d20+9=28 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+4=7 ; d20+9=21 ; d20+9=16 ; d8+6=7 ; d8+3=8 ; d8+3=8 ; 4d4+4=11 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 4:00:18 PM
A silent battle rages between two Tigers, the orange and black bodies writhing with blood splattering both. Tishe' can't tell the two apart as her Tiger mauls the shape-changed druid. A claw and two raking rear claws cause more deep cuts in one of the Tigers. Not bothering to Grapple, this fight is one of dominance!
(Claw AC 28 Dam 7, Claw AC 13, Bite AC 7 , Rend AC 21 Dam 8, Rend AC 16 Dam 8) (Total v #3 Druid: 23 Damage)
From her position, Tishe' can't see any enemies as they are blocked by packmates, stone, or water, but she can hear the one-sided battle. "Try not to kill them all!", she calls to her packmates, "They aren't to blame for the Council's mistakes!".
Spells and Effects
Web; 20 foot radius; Reflex DC 17 or entangled; 10 or more of webs = total cover Bag of Tricks - Tiger [AC 14, HP 35/45, A 2 claws +9 (d8+6) and bite +4 melee (2d6+3), improved grab, pounce, rake (2 rake +9 (d8+3)] Endure Elements - 48 hours, shared Shield; +4 AC
Grymash (ac25. hp114/115. haste2) Tuesday June 10th, 2008 7:27:42 PM
Grymash surveys the battle trying to decide his next target. The rogue who shot Malafret made an excellent candidate. However, he dove in the water and disappeared. The others foes are fighting the worm. Their attacks were impressive, but didnt penetrate the worm's hide. Fair enough he thinks! "Let da worm haves them," yells Grymash. Hoping the treadles have the worm properly distracted with their attacks, he races forward and scoops up the body of Malafret. "Flea! Times ta go! Thays be worm food!" With that being said, he turns and readies to make his own escape. (next round)
Flea (AC 21+1 Hasted, 39/62 HP) Evasion d20+13=32 d20+13=15 d4+2=4 d20+13=20 d4+2=6 Tuesday June 10th, 2008 8:53:01 PM
"No! No!" cries the rogue. She had failed! The pack's mentor was dead! Now there was nothing to bind the pack to Rattledam.
Find the Manfri... they know what lies... what is... beneath... rattledam... the source of the plains... terrible power... secret... under... Rattledam...find the Manfri
The rogue commits the message to memory. Must tell Trellus' and the rest of the pack. But it is 3 on one agains Gilanbeast!
Flea activates her boots, the holy sword gripped tight in her right hand and advances on #7. As she slips in beside the scary looking creature that is her friend, she announces, "it's me, Gilan!" then stabs and slashes at the axe weilder. (Hit AC 32, crit 15 (no) 4 pts dmg, and hit AC 20, 6 pts dmg vs #7)
DM Sanity Info:
Position: F7
Boots of Speed 2/10
Gilan[HP: 100/128 - AC: 34][wildshape: remorhaz] d20+12=30 ; d20+7=20 ; d20+22=34 ; d20+22=29 ; 3d8+12=19 ; 3d8+12=22 ; 3d8+12=25 ; Tuesday June 10th, 2008 10:15:34 PM
Gilan, in remorhaz form, wants to laugh at the attempts being made upon his armor by those that have surrounded him. He spits out what little pieces of the wizard he still holds and his great head spins around, his flexible neck giving him great freedom. His jaws attempt to snap shut on the barbarian (#7) looking man that is attacking him. Though deep in his mind he understands the words that are yelled by Tishe' a part of him wants to ignore them as he has seen the bolt plunge into Malafret. The one attacker with the scythe seems to be expendable as he would most likely not know much.
With his teeth tearing into the man, not once but twice, he tries to maintain a hold on him the second time...if he is still alive.
[hit: 30/20 and damage: 19/22 and grapple: 34/29]
[AC Notes: 10 base + 1 dex + 7 armor + 5 shield + 11 natural = 34 or 33 if flat-footed and 11 if touch]
[Wild: The wearer of a suit of armor or a shield with this ability preserves his armor bonus (and any enhancement bonus) while in a wild shape. Armor and shields with this ability usually appear to be made covered in leaf patterns. While the wearer is in a wild shape, the armor cannot be seen.]
Cave Battle 3 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+11=17 ; d20+6=9 ; d20+10=21 ; 2d6+6=10 ; d20+6=9 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2008 1:35:56 AM
Moving further towards the shape changed druid Olaf attempts to fight one of the tigers... which one does not matter for the raging tigers prove to be too tough for him to hurt. Both tigers growl at Olaf warning him to stay out of this fight...
Seeing the tigers in a deadly dance Vayine -- angered for his wounds and the death of Malafret -- turns on the nearest warrior. Just around the rock formation fighter (7) tries to cut through the hide of the Remorhaz.
Impressed by the Gilan Remorhaz Yanosh slips through between the worm and the water edge and attacks fighter (5) but the dwarf hits nothing but thin air...
Understanding Olaf's silence spell has just causes one of his spells to fail Trellus shoots a sour look at the Rogue/Cleric. But then he can hear again and he notices Flea crouching over Malafret... rushing forward the blond cleric hopes he's not too late. But once he hears Flea's cries he knows... Malafret is dead...
Tishe' observes both Tigers as they continue their dance of death but does not interfere. She can't see all enemies but calls out to her friends not to kill them all. Tishe's tiger continues to bite and tear into the shape changed druid. In a last mighty roar one of the tigers sinks to the floor and as it changes back into the remains of a female druid it becomes clear Tishe's tiger was victorious.
Noticing how the Gilan Worm is able to eat every goon that remain Gry warns his friends that they should pack up and leave the place. He rushes forward and scoops the remains of Malafret. Next round he'll get out of here. If Tishe' clears the tunnel of the sticky spider webs of course...
Flea, struck by pain of failing to help Malafret, joins Gilan as he is attacked by three more fighters. Warning Gilan that she is right next to him she takes sides with Vayine and fights nr 7 delivering a pair of extra cuts.
Swirling his flexible neck the Gilan Remorhaz selects a new target. The one with the Scythe appears to be most tasty and he crashes his jaws upon the poor foe... you would not whish your worst enemy to be gnawed upon by a worm... howling in pain the Barbarian/Rogue is still alive but becomes grappled in the jaws of the Gilan Remorhaz!!
With no chances to escape anymore the 3 remaining warriors fight to the best of their abilities. They won't quit that's obvious.
Fighter (7) attacks Vayine but his great axe can not penetrate the mithril armor of the Drow Warrior. (Axe strike 1 hits AC17 - fails) (Axe strike 2 hits AC9 - fails)
Fighter (5) now has a dwarf standing close to him and swings his great sword at the dwarf. Yanosh can feel the blade penetrate his armor... (Great sword hits AC21 -- damage 10HP)
The Barbarian/Rogue (6) is struggling in the jaws of the Remorhaz. Trying to break free (escape artist 9) he soon realizes this is all in vein. He can not escape the deadly jaws of the Remorhaz... just one extra bite from Gilan will help him on his way to meet his ancestors. I wonder of they will be proud of him...
1 : Human Wizard: AC15+4 shield spell -- Quarterstaff -- damage taken : 11 + 32 = 43 -- DEAD 2 : Human Fighter: AC17 -- Hide Armor -- +1 Greatsword - damage taken : 8+12+5+13+18+18 = 74 -- DEAD 3 : Half-Elf Druid : AC16 - leather + 2 amulet of natural armor -- damage taken : 13+8+11+7+8+8 = 55 - DEAD 4 : Halfling Rogue : AC19 - leather + 2 ring of protection -- Crossbow - damage taken : 0 - ESCAPED 5 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor -- Greatsword - damage taken : 0 6 : Human Barbarian/Rogue : AC17 -- studded + cloak of resistance +1 -- Scythe - damage taken : 19+22 = 41 -- GRAPPLED and FAILED to break free 7 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor - +1 Greataxe -- damage taken : 13+4+7 = 24 8 : Human Rogue : AC18 -- leather + 2 ring of protection -- Keen Rapier -- damage taken : 19+15+10+10 = 54 - DEAD
Grymash (ac23. hp114/115. rage hp 134/135. haste3, rage) Wednesday June 11th, 2008 5:03:26 AM "Huhh!! Gilan?!" Is all Grymash can utter! It isnt until now, after Flea had said his name and referred to the worm, that it began to dawn on him that his friend was now this monster! Such a concept was too much for his fragile brain to handle. He almost refused to believe it. It didn't make sense. Yeah, he could change into fur bags before, like the flying rat, but they all had Gilan-like similarities. This monster had no such appearance. "Gilan... whut haves ya done?!"
Grymash quickly retreats back to the entrance to the room, near Trellus and sets the body of Malafret back down to the floor. With that being done, his bloodshot eyes turn back to the fight, burning hot with rage. A growl slowly erupts from deep within. "Whut food gute for da worm, be gute for GRRRYYY!!!" His muscles tense and bulge as he readies his charge. (rage)
Stephen Wednesday June 11th, 2008 5:05:39 AM
(Minor correction .... I thought Trellus was still by the entrance. Grymash sets Malafret next the entrance of the room.)
Olaf (AC 22, HP 58/58) Wednesday June 11th, 2008 8:56:42 AM
Seeing that the combat has moved elsewhere, and the casters are down, Olaf drops his silenced arrow and takes a double move to F3 by way of the entrance (L10-6, 80' movement); to the two remaining villains, he states succinctly (and slightly out of breath), "I'm thinkin' ya better put down yer weapons."
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 24/61) d20+3=20 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2008 10:32:32 AM
Tishe' moves up and calls her Tiger back into her Bag of Tricks. "Good job Kitty, I'll call on you again when needed." The mystic is very pleased that the Bag worked so well! Usually it takes her longer to provide allied support to her team.
The mystic will check to see if the rogue #8, fighter #2, and druid #3 are merely unconscious (ie negative hits) and will bind wounds of any of them that can still use care (Heal Skill: 20). "Surrender!", she calls, imploring the fighters to drop thier weapons. "You didn't turn our to be a serious threat to us, and if you live, you could still protect Rattledam after we have gone."
"If they were here to ambush us", she begins to state the obvious, while coming up with another idea. "it would be interesting to know who sent them."
Spells and Effects
Web; 20 foot radius; Reflex DC 17 or entangled; 10 or more of webs = total cover Bag of Tricks -(1/10) Endure Elements - 48 hours, shared Shield; +4 AC
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) Wednesday June 11th, 2008 3:06:12 PM
Trellus follows Grymash back to the cavern entrance. As the barbarian half-orc begins to rage, the cleric steps aside, cradling the body of Malafret.
He hears the calls of Olaf and Tishe for the opposing fighters to surrender, but doesn't join them. Maybe its a Rattledam thing, he doesn't know. Its hard on the Plains. Those dudes just killed Malafret, and now they're gonna pay. Besides, even if the blond man felt like calling off his two childhood friends (which he doesn't), Gil and Gry are way too shuttlecocked to warp down now.
"Tishe," he says, his voice deceptively calm. "Please take down the web."
Yanosh AC 20--HP53/76 d20+10=19 ; d20+5=22 ; d10+3=7 ; d10+3=9 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2008 4:03:36 PM
Feeling the bite of the sword the Dwarven Cleric growls incoherently. His eyes wild with the battle Yanosh begins to hum. The tune is strikingly morbid sounding. Like a song sung at funerals. His Axe rises and falls in rappid succession.
Hit AC 19 Dmg 7 Hit AC 22 Dmg 9 Total dmg 16
Spell cast Bless
Highlight to display spoiler: { spells Level 0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless*, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Yanosh AC 20--HP43/76 Wednesday June 11th, 2008 4:08:10 PM
OoC Sorry my HPs listed in my post are wrong it should read 43/76. Forgot to change them.
Vayine AC26 HP 52/82 (endure elements) d20+5=11 ; d20+5=16 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2008 4:39:26 PM
Vayine looks around at the rest of the cavern for more enemies (search 11) then curls his lips back into a sneer. "Lay your arms down, or I feed you to our large and hungry friend. I promise that I will not harm you this time, if you lay down your weapons now." (initimidate 16)
Gilan[HP: 100/128 - AC: 34][wildshape: remorhaz] d20+6=14 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+7=20 ; 3d8+12=30 ; 3d8+12=27 ; Wednesday June 11th, 2008 5:17:08 PM
Somewhere in his fog clouded brain he hears the call for surrender and he fights to get back to his normal senses(Wis 14). As the red haze of battle lust begins to clear from his brain he further registers the calls that are being made for surrender. To further the point that he understands what is being said he turns his large head in the direction of those enemies that still remain and his teeth bite down on the poor warrior caught in his mouth.
As his teeth close and tear into the man's trapped body, blood is flung around and oozes from the mouth of the large worm. The front half of the man falls to one side of the worms, while the bottom half falls near the other side of his head. A roar is then aimed at the last of the fighters that remain and the last bits of the middle of the man are sent flying in all direction.
[hit: 30/20 and damage: 30/27]
[AC Notes: 10 base + 1 dex + 7 armor + 5 shield + 11 natural = 34 or 33 if flat-footed and 11 if touch]
[Wild: The wearer of a suit of armor or a shield with this ability preserves his armor bonus (and any enhancement bonus) while in a wild shape. Armor and shields with this ability usually appear to be made covered in leaf patterns. While the wearer is in a wild shape, the armor cannot be seen.]
Flea (AC 21+1 Hasted, 39/62 HP) Evasion Thursday June 12th, 2008 12:53:26 AM
"Eeewww!" Flea nearly gags. The urge to avenge Malafret dissipates at the horror she is witnessing. When Grymash enters the fray, the gnome knows its time for her to fall back.
The magic of her boots allows her to zip over beside the party leader.
"Trellus?" she says, thinking the boy looks dazed. "Trellus?" she repeats, "Malafret said something to me. Before she died.
Cave Battle 4 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+8=15 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=13 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 3:04:45 AM
Gry's fragile brain has a hard time understanding the Remorhaz is in fact Gilan... trying to find some Gilan appearances in the Worm is rather difficult and even though the Half-Orc new the druid shifter could change into furry things he never knew he was capable of this! Picking up Malafret he takes her to the tunnel entrance and lays her down... then going berserk he turns around to face the remaining goons and readies his rage...
Running through the cave Olaf sneaks up behind the two remaining thugs and advises them to lay down their arms...
Pleased that it worked out so well, Tishe' moves the tiger back into the bag of tricks. She goes out to check the remains of the fallen enemy but finds none alive... The mystic also realizes these thugs weren't a real threat to the Bloodpack and it would be interesting to know who had sent them... of course she can only hope the Gilan Remorhaz and the raging Half-Orc will be able to stop the frenzy!
Following Grymash to the tunnel entrance Trellus cradles the body of Malafret. Their fallen mentor... she has been their guide for so long and now so suddenly she is taken from them. In a distance he hears Olaf and Tishe' ordering the last two goons to surrender but his mind is set on revenge and so he doesn't try to stop Gilan nor Gry... Deceptively calm he asks Tishe' to remove the webs from the tunnel...
Feeling the bite of the sword Yanosh's eyes grow wild of battle and he begins to hum a morbid sounding tune... He raises his axe and makes it sing... Twice cutting through the Full Plate armor of fighter (5) the man still stands and growls back at Yanosh. In this frenzy and with the worm behind him his mind is set on escape rather than surrender...
Vayine tries to intimidate fighter (7) and orders him to lay down his arms or he will be fed to the hungry worm... (opposed check d20+8 = 15 -- intimidate successful)
Right next to him the Gilan Remorhaz is finishing of the Rogue/Barbarian in his mouth!! Blood is flung around and oozes from the mouth of the Remorhaz. As parts of his remains fall in front of Fighter (7) the man falls to his knees dropping his axe and begs Vayine to make the worm stop...
Gilan struggles to regain control over the Remorhaz and to put a halt on this feast...
Disgusted by Gilans display Flea nearly gags and hurries back to Trellus. She finds the blond cleric kneeling near the entrance cradeling Malafrets body. Flea tells Trellus Malafret spoke to her before being killed...
Being hit by the Dwarf Fighter (7) fails to listen to the suggestions to lay down their arms. He in turn raises his great sword again and swings it at Yanosh but gruesomely fails!! (Great sword hits AC11 -- Natural 1 -- ignore the second d20+10 I clicked the button twice)
He then turns his back on Yanosh and runs to the water to dive... provoking an AoO Yanosh can take a swing at fighter (5). Should he fail to down him he'll dive into the water and vanish from sight.
1 : Human Wizard: AC15+4 shield spell -- Quarterstaff -- damage taken : 11 + 32 = 43 -- DEAD 2 : Human Fighter: AC17 -- Hide Armor -- +1 Greatsword - damage taken : 8+12+5+13+18+18 = 74 -- DEAD 3 : Half-Elf Druid : AC16 - leather + 2 amulet of natural armor -- damage taken : 13+8+11+7+8+8 = 55 - DEAD 4 : Halfling Rogue : AC19 - leather + 2 ring of protection -- Crossbow - damage taken : 0 - ESCAPED 5 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor -- Greatsword - damage taken : 7+9 = 16 -- RUNNING AWAY 6 : Human Barbarian/Rogue : AC17 -- studded + cloak of resistance +1 -- Scythe - damage taken : 19+22 = 41 - DEAD 7 : Human Fighter : AC19 -- full plate armor - +1 Greataxe -- damage taken : 13+4+7 = 24 - SURRENDERD 8 : Human Rogue : AC18 -- leather + 2 ring of protection -- Keen Rapier -- damage taken : 19+15+10+10 = 54 - DEAD
Olaf (AC 22, HP 58/58) Thursday June 12th, 2008 6:49:40 AM
Olaf watches the fighter, in full plate mail, make a dash for the water, and knows that a sure death by drowning will await the man if he chooses that route. Instead, he focuses on the surrendered fighter, pulling out a some silk rope and slowly approaching. "Now, just so yer clear, this is gonna be fer yer protection, ya hear?"
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 24/61) d20+8=24 ; d20+8=19 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 9:23:38 AM
Tears blur Tishe's view as she understands what has happened, that Malafret has been cut down in front of the Bloodpack. Her sorrow is of sympathy, not knowing the woman well, and her thoughts are on Trellus, Gilan, and Grymash who had Malafret as a large thread in thier weavings. And now that thread is cut...
Saddened, Tishe' dismisses the Web and moves back out the tunnel to the Sargrass Plains beyond. She stands, guarding the entrance, and allowing her packmates the time to deal with thier sorrow. She brings her horned toad familiar out of his satchel to help her watch the disceptively peaceful grasses. (Tishe' Spot: 24; Wart Aid Another: 19)
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) Thursday June 12th, 2008 10:51:00 AM
Trellus' head swivels from the now open cave entrance to Flea. Still cradling the body of Malafret, the man's blue eyes stare at the gnome blankly for a moment, while his sorrowed mind slowly interprets her words.
The cleric blinks once, and then again.
"What did she say?" he asks softly, curiously. Trellus dismisses the sceaming and ripping sounds deeper in the cavern, as well as Tishe's movement out, to concentrate solely on hearing the last words of his former teacher.
Flea (AC 21+1 Hasted, 39/62 HP) Evasion Thursday June 12th, 2008 2:08:21 PM Find the Manfri... they know what lies... what is... beneath... Rattledam... the source of the plains... terrible power... secret... under... rattledam...find the Manfri
The gnome's brow furrows as she concentrates on remembering exactly what Malafret had said.
"Malafret said to find the Manfri," Flea volunteers, adding, "there is something under the city, Rattledam. Some sorce of power. Malafret called it a terrible power." Flea scratches at the back of one calf with the toe of her boot, "um, she said the Manfri know. The Manfri know what is beneath what the secret is."
The rogue looks up into the blue eyes of the cleric, then blurts, "the Manfri know about aterrible secret source of power that lies beneath Rattledam. We've got to find them!"
The rogue doesn't say anything about what their mentor had said about being unable to get their gear. That would only make folks feel bad. She doesn't say anthing about the magic golden door, either....yet.
Yanosh AC 20--HP43/76 d20+10=19 ; d10+3=9 ; d20+10=29 ; d10+3=9 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 3:29:06 PM
Seeing the Human try to flee Yanosh strikes like a snake. His Axe slams into the fleeing would be assasin. "You are going no where until this is decided."
The Dwarven Cleric snarls. Blood and gore from Gilan and the fight cover him. His burned and blood streaked face shows no mercy from the one waiting to exact revenge for the treatment of him and his 'Pack. This may not be the ones on the coungil but they work for them. And for them Yanosh holds no mercy.
Yanosh strikes with the fury that fills him. His axe slams home once more. Blood and gore fly as it sinks in.
AoO Hit AC 19 Dmg 9 Regular Attack Hit AC 29 Dmg 9 (OoC if the second attack needs the -5 it is still a 24 and a hit but no crit threat. If Yanosh cannot get the second attack then thats ok too. Waste of a good roll but ok. :-) ) Total Dmg 18
Spell cast Bless
Highlight to display spoiler: { spells Level 0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless*, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Vayine AC26 HP 52/82 (endure elements) Thursday June 12th, 2008 3:59:29 PM
Vayine shoves the surrendering fighter away from the Gilan worm, his body covering the retreating man, Vayine has his hands up showing the Worm that he is fine and safe. "GO to my friends sides, hand above your head palms open, tell them you surrender, or I will let my large and hungry friend feast on your coprse." he shouts to the unarmed man.
(uses His Gem in his chest to tell those who have the gem active, that an the man gave up. and to use him for information)
Gilan[HP: 100/118 - AC: 22] d20+6=20 ; d20+14=31 ; Thursday June 12th, 2008 4:25:39 PM
Gilan is torn between his love for his pack and the love that he felt for their mentor, Malafret. The large body of the remorhaz starts to convulse in what could be considered sobs, then there is another howl of rage and pain from the mouth of the worm. The baser nature of the worm along with his new touch with nature make the red haze start to come back again. For a few seconds(Wis 20) he wants nothing more than to turn his attention upon the place that he once called home and feel his teeth tearing into the council...for surely it was them that caused this.
With the remaining prisoner under control he slowly lets his form slip back into that of the normal human Gilan. As he looks around at the carnage and realizes the full extent of what he has decided to embrace he feels sick(Fort 31). Still his stomach is made of sterned stuff and he is able to choke back the rising contents of his stomach.
As he starts to move towards the entrance of the cave he slips now and then on the gore that litters the floor and he takes no time to check the bodies. He cannot bring himself to do that or even look closer at the faces to see if he knows any of those they just killed. As he nears Trellus and Flea, his eyes settle on both of them for a few seconds and then turn away. For some reason he is ashamed of what he has done here today, though as his eyes drop to the body of Malafret it lessens a little.
The tears have started to form once again in his eyes and he reaches to lay a hand upon Trellus's shoulder, but quickly snatches it away. As he looks again to Trellus and Flea, you can see fear in them for what he has chosen to do and for what he has decided to embrace. More than that, he fears what his pack is thinking of him right now. Without saying anything or even looking back he is soon in a dead run that leads him outside the cave and a short ways into the grass, where he slumps to the ground his head in his hands...crying.
Flea (illegal second post) Thursday June 12th, 2008 8:03:02 PM
Out of the corner of her eye, the rogue watches the approaching druid. She witnesses the furtive gesture as her friend reaches out to the cleric then draws his hand back.
It has been a very long time since the gnome has experienced physical contact that isn't a blow levelled in combat. The last time she experienced a loving caress, embrace, even a hug...was back when the pack was in Ice Vein.
Flea doesn't really understand what has happened to Gilan, during his time with the Walker out on the plains, but he is still Bloodpack, and he is her friend.
The gnome moves a little coser, to the dark haired druid, and slips her hand into his...giving it a little squeeze, and keeping hold, unless he draws it away.
"Let's go find the Manfri," she says, as the pack starts to reform. "Let's go out into the Sargrass and find the Manfri."
Flea moves closer to Gilan, and leans her head against him.
Cave Battle: the Aftermath ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+3=5 ; Friday June 13th, 2008 3:33:07 AM
Seeing fighter (5) making a dash for the water Olaf only focuses on the Fighter (7) who chose to surrender. As he informs the fighter that he'll be spared the man nods but us trembling at the sight of the Remorhaz next to him and he just wants to get out of here as fast as possible...
Yanosh takes an opportunistic swing at the fleeing fighter and puts another heavy cut in the mans armor. Instead of diving -- in full plate armor -- he falls into the water... Even though he is trained to swim the heavy armor causes him to go underwater and sink... splashing his arms he calls for help until his head goes under. Yanosh can see him struggling under water as the poor man sinks deeper... he'll drown... possibly one of the worst deaths a man can get... of course perhaps it's better than being ripped apart by a mad worm!!
Vayine shoves the surrendering fighter away from the Gilam Remorhaz. The man is so grateful to be away from the worm he clings to Vayine and thanks him.
Near the entrance the older bloodpack members share their grief for their fallen mentor. Almost Flea was able to save her... if only the wand hadn't failed the second time she would still be alive and she would have been able to reveal the terrible secret she tried to tell Flea.
Numb from all the emotions Flea's words come to Trellus slowly as he asks the little Gnome to tell him Malafret's last words. Flea leaves out a tiny bit that would only make the blond cleric feel even worse. Malafret spoke of a terrible secret. Something under Rattledam. Some source of the plains. And apparently the Manfri know what it is and they are the ones who can help the Bloodpack now. Her last words were to go out and find the Manfri...
Tishe's dispels the webs that covered the tunnel entrance and goes out tinto the plains. She realizes this must be a painful moment for her friends. Waiting near the entrance she allows her friends the time they need to deal with their sorrow.
Struggling with his mind the Remorhaz's body convulses as it changes back into Gilan... shocked by what he did or what he embraced to become Gilan goes to stand with Trellus and Flea. The pain he feels for the death of Malafret somewhat makes what he did earlier more acceptable. Still as the shifter tries to touch his friends he senses their fear -- or at least he thinks this is what he feels -- and retreats his hands.
Noting the furtive gesture as Gilan reaches out to Trellus and then draws his hand back Flea slips her hand into his giving it a little squeeze. Even though the little gnome can not grasp the changes that occurred in Gilan he still is Bloodpack and he is her friend. "Let's go find the Mafri" she says and leans closer to Gilan.
Too much for Gilan, the druid shifter, he runs out of the tunnel passing Tishe' near the entrance and runs into the plains where he slumps to the ground his head in his hands... crying...
Slowly the Pack starts to regroup. Gilan is outside. Tishe' stands near the tunnel entrance. Flea and Trellus cradle the body of Malafret. Vayine and Olaf are securing the surrendered fighter while Yanosh witnesses how the fleeing fighter is drowning... Grymash... in a rage frantically looks for some enemy to cool down his anger but finds none alive anymore. Blood and gore are splattered all around the cave as a sign of the Bloodpack's terrible power...
(ooc my complements for a fight easily won. I didn't know you were this strong ;-) Also very nice RP'ing everyone!! I'm gonna leave the Xp handing out to DM JohnP as he returns -- scheduled somewhere around the 22nd of July... till then you are stuck with me -- I hope you're enjoying it )
Grymash Friday June 13th, 2008 8:06:15 AM "Blood an water," is all Grymash says. The frenzy has left him, but his rage goes on in silence. He dumps the bloodied bodies into the water. Hoping the weight of their armor and gear to drag them down. Hoping the last drops of crimson from their mangled bodies would to turn the water foul. To send a message, that death comes to those who mess with the Blood! Yes, Grymash no longer sees his group of friends as a 'pack', but more like a clan... a tribe, a family. He will no longer call them a pack, for that is what the council called them.
Olaf (AC 22, HP 58/58) Friday June 13th, 2008 8:14:38 AM
Olaf shouts to his companions, "Someone wanna help that poor fool?" and nods his head towards the drowning man. His hands busy with securing the first surrendered fighter, he hopes someone will take mercy on the fighter.
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 24/61) Friday June 13th, 2008 11:32:59 AM
Being outside, Tishe' knows not the goings on in the cave, figuring that if there is true trouble, she will hear the shouts of Trellus and Flea who were near the entrance.
Her concern instead is for Gilan, who is obviously overcome. She gives him the space he seems to need to collect himselfm, then moves closer and drops a hand on his shoulder. "The powers provided by Ma'ab and Ebyron are sometimes hard to understand the spinning. You are still Gilan, and we are still packmates." She looks down in comfort. "You are you, and I am not afraid."
Spells and Effects
Bag of Tricks -(1/10) Endure Elements - 48 hours, shared Shield; +4 AC
Yanosh AC 20--HP43/76 d20+8=28 ; d20+8=22 ; d4+3=5 ; d4+3=5 ; Friday June 13th, 2008 2:40:40 PM
"Help him?" Yanosh says almost thoughtfully. Why sure I'll help him." at the Yanosh places his Axe into its place on his back and draws his dagger. Grabing the armor of the drowning man Yanosh reaches down and thrust the dagger home. More blood flows into the water as the dagger finds a vital spot.
Hit Ac28 (Nat 20 Crit confirmed hit AC22) Dmg 5+5 total 10
spell cast bless
Highlight to display spoiler: { spells Level 0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless*, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Vayine AC26 HP 52/82 (endure elements) Friday June 13th, 2008 6:27:57 PM
Vayine follows the surrenedering fighter to his companions. "This one has given up. Use him for information or what ever you wish. I promised him no harm would come from myself, and I am a man of my word."
being the practical sort, the Drow warrior runs back into the cave and collects all of the fallen items, as well as strips the dead bodys of anything of value, knowing that the items would come in handy when financing Oddholme, and their adventures.
(Vayine has a handy haversack that should hold a good bit of the loot and will drag the rest out in trips if he has to.)
Flea Friday June 13th, 2008 6:55:50 PM
"Let's go! Let's go!" Flea yells. It is for Trellus and all the rest of the pack...Vayine, Yanosh, Olaf.
Flea feels secure in the knowledge that the Bloodpack will never be denied the tunnels under Rattledam, but for now, the party needs to retreat. The rogue's mind races, should they camp in the plains? or seek out the rocky outcrop where they had performed their first ritual...Kalateck? Should they strike out towards Oddholme?
"Trellus? Trellus!" the rogue, pushes at the cleric, "we've got to get out of here!"
Flea wants to get out of the tunnels, and breath the fresh air of the plains. Flea wants to find Gilan, and Tishe'. Flea wants the newer members of the pack to come along. "We've got to find the Manfri!"
(OOC: Good job Steve VdB)
Gilan Friday June 13th, 2008 9:13:52 PM
Gilan knows that he should have said more to Flea or at least something...anything. But there was too much hurt in his own heart and too much fear to stand there. Now alone for a few seconds he can let it out. Reflection allows him to see the need of killing and that no longer pains him as much...maybe it did not before either. As his thoughts tumble around he realizes that it was the death of Malafret that truely hurt him the most...a mentor and dear friend. She had been one of the few that accepted him, all of them.
He looks up into the face of Tishe' as her hand comes to rest upon his shoulder. From his seated kneeling place he nods his head. "Father came to me in my dreams and told me of this new power. He warned me that it could be terrible but liberating at the same time. He said that it would bring changes to me but give me strength as well...the strength of the wild." Glancing out to the grass he shudders slightly. "I have never felt that much power before. I felt so alive, as I have been for awhile in the forms of other animals." Raising his hand he wipes away the tears and then reaches up to pat her hand. "It is good to know that some still think of me as...me." Slowly he stands to look back in the direction of the cave. "I think what hurts the most...is with this power, I could do nothing for our mentor." He had been able to help in saving his pack but not someone else, someone as close to him as his mother.
Shaking his head he lets a bit of a smile take over his features. "Maybe we should take her body with us. It deserves more than the coucil will most likely do for her." He walks back into the clearing to find the rest of the pack and hopefully Flea. Yes, he needed to say something to her and hopes that he has not damaged a friendship.
(As Carla said. Very good job there VdB. Truely enjoyable so far.)
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) 4d8(5+5+1+7)+4=22 3d8(6+1+8)+3=18 Sunday June 15th, 2008 10:35:44 AM
Trellus looks up at the agitated gnome. And then glances over at Olaf. The blond man closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, letting it out in a long, resigned sigh.
Pretending not to hear Olaf, he slowly rises, and picks up Malafret.
"We know where the Manfri are," he tells Flea softly. "They're in their taudo. Gil and Gry and I have been there before." The cleric absently brings his hand to his stomach, tracing a line across it.
Trellus rises, and leaves the cavern, carrying Malafret over his left shoulder. Meeting up with Gilan, he holds out his right hand and grasps the druid's forearm. He holds his friends arm and eyes for a moment, a wordless show of support.
"We're going to the taudo," he informs Tishe and Gilan, while nodding in a generally westward direction. "Just as soon as everyone has finished their threads here."
As he finishes, Trellus gets his first real look at Tishe. She's burned really badly, he realizes. The cleric sets Malafret's body down and starts pulling out wands.
[CCW and CSW on Tishe - total 40 hp healed.]
Find the Manfri ... [ADM StevenVdB] Monday June 16th, 2008 1:37:42 AM
Inside the cave Gry and Vayine begin to dispose of the bodies. Gry wants to dump every single one of them while Vayine tries to recover as much gear as possible before the still raging Half-Orc throws everything away...
As Olaf takes the captured fighter outside he wonders if anyone will help the drowning fighter. Yanosh looking into the eyes of the sinking fighters offers to helping him but instead draws a dagger and takes another hit at the poor defenseless guy!! Breathing out his last bit of air in pain the fighters eye grow wide as he stairs into the eyes of the Dwarven warrior.
Outside the cave Tishe', Flea and Trellus are thinking about their next plans. Flea is rather agitated to get the hell out of the place. One of the fighters escaped and there's no way of knowing where he is at the moment... for all you know he has gone to get reinforcements...
Trellus has an idea where to find the Mafri.. The Taudo... as soon as everything has been taken care of the cleric intends to guide his friends there in the hopes of finding the Manfri. Perhaps they will be able to explain what their beloved Mentor Malafret told Flea with her last breath...
Being comforted by Tishe', Gilan feels his pack is willing to accept him with his new powers no matter how wild he became. In dreams Gilan's father warned him that his new powers would be terrible but liberating at the same time. He explains Tishe' how he felt while being in the shape of the Remorhaz. It felt as though he was more alive... more aware of his animal shape than ever before... Though most of all Gilan feels comforted by the knowledge his pack still accepts him.
But one thing no one could... not with all the powers in the Wold they have already... they were unable to save their mentor... the mother figure that has guides and gave advice to the Pack. Not even Gilan's terrible new powers were able to save her...
A thread has been cut that can never be healed again...
Loot from the Cave Battle: +1 Mithral chain shirt +1 Ring of Protection +2 Ring of Protection Masterwork Leather Armor +1 Hide Armor +1 Greatsword +2 Amulet of Natural Armor +1 Scythe +1 Great Axe Masterwork Crosbow Masterwork Full Plate Armor Masterwork Great Sword +2 Ring of Protection +1 Keen Rapier
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 2d8+8=24 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 3:41:09 PM
Walking from the corridor Yanosh still smokes from the fireball. Scorched but smiling the Dwarven Cleric looks down at his battered body. As if he just realized he is a cleric Yanosh calls upon Gargul for healing.
Casts cure moderate wounds for 24 hp
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 61/61) Monday June 16th, 2008 6:50:26 PM
Tishe' feels the healing wash over her from Trellus and breathes a pain-free breath that rapidly turns to a sigh of loss. "Poor Spartacia," she says. "I freed her from the slavers only to have her die at the hands of supposed friends." She looks at the large grass dome that covers nearby Rattledam. "I am glad she was free. It is a good pattern. It is just hard to try and understand the pattern when I'm fond of the threads."
She readies herself for moving through the Sargrass to the Manfri. The Bloodpack paid a heavy price for being able to leave Rattledam with memories intact, she thinks. And now those memories will remind her daily.
Flea (illegal second post) d20+3=9 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 8:03:24 PM
Flea answers Olaf's call for help. Trotting over to stand beside one of the newest Bloodpack, she whispers so that only the rogue/cleric can hear: Highlight to display spoiler: { "we can't bring any prisoners, Olaf, and we can't let this one hear what our plans are." }
The gnome tries to get her half-orc friend's attention, then she faces the one who surrendered to Olaf, and says, "tell'em it was the Bloodpack who did this. Tell'em, tell'em, if they send anyone after us, we'll do'em like we did you. We'll cut their threads, and send 'em all whitefaced to see Grey-Eye." (Intimidate=9).
Flea sighs, sometimes her diminuative stature just didn't convey the degree of threat she wished. Maybe Grymash would have better luck.
If the half-orc answers her summons, she'll ask him to scare the willies out of the captive, and then smack him one upside the head, so there's no impediment to the Bloodpack's get-away.
Trellus (Ac 21, 84/88 hp, Shield of Faith) Monday June 16th, 2008 8:58:19 PM
Trellus waits patiently outside the cave mouth for the rest of the Bloodpack to come out. He has picked up Malafret again, and just stands there, blank faced. It certainly appears the cleric fully intends to carry her all the way to the manfri's taudo.
Gilan d20+3=20 ; d20+1=12 ; d20+3=11 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 10:40:56 PM
Gilan takes the offered forearm hold from Trellus with a stupid smile upon his face. There are no words spoken outloud, but there are there none the less. As he looks once again upon the body of their trusted friend, guide and mentor...old memories surface, along with new. "Why was she in the caves anyways?" He glances to each of his fellow packmates that have come out in turn, his eyes searching.
Though he allows himself to be turned from his current question he moves to stand nearer the tied up man, with a smile upon his face. "You saw who the worm was and you know how ineffective your attacks were." Looking to Flea his face hardens into something even more wild than he has thought possible. Grasping the mans armor he pulls him in close and whispers into his ear(intimidate 12). "Do not make me come back and remedy an act of mercy." He shoves him away and lets the memories of the man mix with his threat to whatever end it will be.
As he turns back to the group he dismisses the man and goes back over to Trellus. "As to my earlier question?" He shrugs as he has no ideas of his own, though something nags at the back of his brain.
Grymash d20+11=23 ; Monday June 16th, 2008 10:58:12 PM "Wha?!" booms Grymash. The large half-orc stomps over to Flea and stares the captured assassin in the eyes. "Wha ta do wit dis treadle ... Gry gots ideas." He now gets close to his face now and mutters, "theres be worser things then death, an Gry knows most of thems!!" (intimidate 23)
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Tuesday June 17th, 2008 1:37:34 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of June 9 - June 15
After being torched by a fireball the Bloodpack quickly acts and shows it's brutal force. Retalliating the Pack downs the poor fellow that sneak attacked Vayine. Animals are summoned and most terrifying of all Gilan changes into a Remorhaz... Quickly the battles turns in favor of the Bloodpack as one by one they manage to kill the tugs.
Flea however sees Malafret on the ground and runs up to her hoping to heal her quickly. Almost succesful Malafret however dies in Flea's arms after being shot by the Halfling Rogue... Malafret tries to reveal the most terrible secret of Rattledam but is no longer able to...
Once the battle is won the Bloodpack leaves the caves... Not heavily wounded but with their minds heavily disturbed by all that occured in the caves... Gilan showed his new self for the first time... Yanosh showed no mercy for a drowning warrior (something that one day might sneak up on him)... and the death of Malafret weighs on all...
" Find the Manfri " was the last task Malafret gave to the Bloodpack...
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Finding the Manfri... [ADM StevenVdB] Tuesday June 17th, 2008 3:53:37 AM
Slowly the Bloodpack regroups. Yanosh walks from the corridor still smoking from the fireball. Not in the least worried for having killed a defenseless and drowning men who probably just followed orders Yanosh realizes he is a Cleric of Gargul and heals himself. Who knows when this act will backfire on him...
Finally ready to move away from the caves Tishe' feels the loss of Tacia... brutally taken from her after having liberated it from slavers Tishe' still feels Tacia is free now. Free to walk the plains and beyond...
Flea is worried about their prisoner. They can't drag him all the way through the plains! She tells Olaf her concerns and then attempts to scare the hell out of the poor guy. Already scared of the Bloodpack he just stares at the little gnome wondering if she means it or not...
Gilan stands close to Trellus now and without speaking they both mourn for their mentor. Gilan however wonders why she was in the caves in the first place... a question Trellus and the others know how to answer but perhaps it would be best to be left unsaid...
Then Gilan turns his attention to the prisoner and nicely informs him of his ... euhm ... other self... and how he will come back and 'remedy and act of mercy'. Slowly the man starts to tremble and it won't take long before he wets his pants! The impressive Half-Orc then stares into the prisoners eyes... the man literally crumbles...
"please pdon't hurt me... yes yes I'll tell them it was the Bloodpack who did this... but I can never return!! They'll kill me for having failed!! Please don't send me back there!! But... I have no where to go... I won't do anything... " he says looking at the Half-Orc trembling even more "where can I go?! I can't go back to Rattledam... the council will have me exectuted! Please you got to help..." He also looks over to Yanosh who earlier let his friend drown and actually take another stab at him while he was drowning...
Guess it's time to move on friends... by now the little Halfling that got away will have reported in... the cavalery might be on its way...
Olaf (AC 22, HP 58/58) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 8:43:31 AM
Olaf shakes his head in some disbelief---after so much time spent with Yanosh, the lack of pity shown strikes him to the core. He seems to be be muttering to himself, stamping his feet, and once, pauses to turn thrice around. Eventually turning his thoughts to the prisoner, he mentions to Trellus, "This one mighten' be like us, I'm thinkin'. Maybe we should take 'im wit us fer now?"
With that, he helps to gather the gear that they might need, and carries what he can in his haversack.
Tishe' (AC 20 HP 61/61) Tuesday June 17th, 2008 10:42:47 AM
Tishe' looks about and comes to a startling conclusion; the Bloodpack's leader isn't leader right now! Looking at Trellus, then Gilan, Flea, and Grymash, she sees they have thier own pains and agendas that are occupying themselves. She looks at Yanosh and Olaf who are eyeing each other and the featureless plains in uncertainty. She looks at Vayine who seems the best kept together in her mind, but still doesn't know the Plains. And she makes a decision.
"Let's Go." she tells the others. Shouldering her pack, she points with her staff to the east. "Gilan, you scout ahead take us to the Manfri tuado. Grymash, bring the prisoner. Vayine and Flea, please take rear guard: we'll need sharp eyes behind us. Olaf and Yanosh stay in the middle with me and Trellus. When Trellus gets tired, we'll switch off." With a look at Trellus, Tishe' obviously feels the cleric of Domi will carry Malafret until he falls over, but it is his burden.
Organized, Tishe' sweeps Gilan ahead and pushes the Bloodpack to disappear into the Sargrass.
Spells and Effects
Bag of Tricks -(1/10) Endure Elements - 48 hours, shared Shield; +4 AC
Trellus Tuesday June 17th, 2008 4:00:58 PM
Gilan's question elicits another blank gaze from Trellus. "I sent her a message asking if she could get our gear," he replies in a soft, flat, monotone.
As the prisoner comes out, Tishe starts issuing directions. The cleric blinks at this, and his brow furrows as he replays what she just said.
And, really, she makes sense. "OK", he responds. "Let's weave, then."
Still carrying Malafret, he heads into the Grass.
Flea Tuesday June 17th, 2008 5:15:37 PM
"Do it!" says Flea to Grymash, "do what Tishe' says." Turning to Olaf, the gnome speaks, "come with me. I'll try to help you understand more about the plains. Things are different here," Flea shrugs her shoulders, as if to say she's sorry, "but you'll get used to it."
The rogue makes sure Olaf is following, and then she does as Tishe' directs.
As she looks at the trail the party is leaving, she asks Vayine if he has anything that might make the direction of the party's get-away less obvious.
Vayine AC26 HP 52/82 (endure elements) 2d8=14 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 6:56:30 PM
Little Sister, I have little practice in hiding trails on the plains. In the caverns of my homeland I was more skilled with such things. I can try however. But I also carry several pints of oil and some smoke sticks should the need arise for them. we could burn away part of our path, but I fear that the fire once started could cause more problems, the smoke though might be our saving grace. I leave that choice to you. But I do agree we should continue moving before others arrive.
before moving however, the Drow takes a moment to examine his injuries, the blood that pours from his wounds would leave a nasty trail for any to follow. with a hiss, as he places his hands on the wounds, Vayine activates his Tattoo, the knot of blue on his arm glows briefly as the magic works at mending his bleedin tissue.
Saving his last magic for a later time he pulls out a slender wand and looks to Flea. "little sister, I have seen you use a wand much like this one to cast glowing bolts at our foes, I have little experiance myself and fear that I could use the extra healing. would you be so kind as to try your hand at this one? (Vayine offers a slender white wand to Flea, the wand is a wand of cure light wounds. 50 charges remaining.) If you can manage to use it, I would like you to keep it. It does little good to me, and most of the others can already heal with magic. The drow waits to hear from the tiny gnome.
Gilan Tuesday June 17th, 2008 8:12:21 PM
Gilan was starting to think more about what Trellus said, when Tishe' starts to give orders and he smiles. With his mind occupied in other ways he has not noticed that they are still standing around in an area that might soon be crawling with more enemies.
Letting other things flow from his mind for now, he falls into the grass and leaves a nicer trail for the others to follow...or he might just lose them. "How far ahead do you want me to roam?" He glances to both Trellus and Tishe', not really caring who gives the orders as he will follow them anyways. With something less angering he falls back into the survival mode that is needed to walk the Plains.
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 d8+4=12 ; Tuesday June 17th, 2008 8:38:31 PM
Yanosh responds to Tishe' and moves to the center of the group. Passing Vayine, "May Gargul heal you my Freind." Yanosh casts Cure light wounds on Vayine (12 hp).
Patting his smoldering goatee and mustache Yanosh finds his way to the middle of the group. "Trellus let me carry her when you tire. She is the responsablity of all of the 'Pack. Let us all bare the burden. I am sorry I failed to rescue her." Feeling truly sorry at the lose Yanosh offers his assistance.
Through the plains... [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday June 18th, 2008 9:19:27 AM
Not understanding the lack of pity Yanosh showed Olaf suggests taking the prisoner with the Bloodpack rather than leaving him here. Immediately the man nods his head thanking Olaf for his mercy and promises not to betray his trust.
Noting how the older bloodpack members are at loss with the death of Malafret Tishe' takes the lead. She hopes to give Trellus his time to mourn and to regain his wits. Knowing the cleric will probably carry Malafrets body all through the plains she asks Olaf and Yanosh to help Trellus.
Tishe' asks Gilan to take the group to the Manfri Tuado.
As Gilan persists on getting an answer to the question why Malafret was in the caves in the first place Trellus replies in a soft, flat, monotone voice that he asked her to bring their gear... a burden which clearly weights heavy on our friend as he ponders the words of Tishe'. She speaks sense and it is good to know there are Bloodpack members who are strong enough to take the lead when the leader is suffering. Picking up Malafret Trellus begins to move through the plains...
Flea insists Gry to do as Tishe' says and to take the prisoner with them. The poor man trembles at the sight of the Half-Orc and was hoping Olaf would be the one to guard him. There was more mercy in Olaf's eyes that he saw in the other Bloodpack members... Taking Olaf aside Flea offers to explaining more about the plains and to Vayine she asks if he can ensure their getaway is somewhat less obvious.
Knowing that he isn't particularly strong in hiding trails and wonders if burning the trail behind them would do any good... but wouldn't the burned trail be an even better trail to follow? Or wouldn't the more draw more attention to their escape??
Vayine also heals some of his wounds with help of his tattoo and offers Flea the Cure Light Wounds wand he carries. Perhaps the little Gnome is far better in using the wand. Yanosh too helps Vayine as he cures more of the Drow's wounds. And he also offers Trellus to share the burden by carrying Malafret now and then...
Somehow it feels as if the death of Malafret also brought good... never before the current lay-out of the Bloodpack has been so close. More than ever they are now the Bloodpack or as Gry prefers it now... they are family...
Thinking through the things Trellus said Gilan suddenly realizes they are still standing here near the cave exit and that it could be swarming with more guards soon... Not caring who gives orders Gilan moves ahead of the Bloodpack and will make sure they can follow...
Trotting through the plains the Pack tries to find the Manfri Tuado. Trellus continues to carry Malafret... With all his gear and the weight of Malafret Trellus now carries a Heavy Load. His base speed is reduced to 20ft with a -6 on all checks made. He'll also grow tired faster than the others.
Times passes slowly... 1 hour... 2 hours... with nothing but grass in front and behind the Pack... Almost exhausted Trellus has to stop...
Notifying Gilan of the pause the Druid/shifter too halts until suddenly he sees a pair of bulbous grey eyes staring at him through the grass...
Grymash d20+11=28 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 9:28:21 AM
Grymash growls under his voice at the tone that is given to him, but he grits his teeth and keeps any of the anger he feels from striking any of his friends. This moment the Blood is feeling their rage and they havent had the opportunity to release it like he did earlier. At least he has someone else to focus it on at the moment. Grymash turns to the prisoner with tooth-filled grimace. (Intimidate 28) "Weez go dis way, piggie! No run ... Gry will catch. No fight an Gry will kill. An Gry no talkin' 'bout quick death eithers, piggie! Will eat ya fors dinner ... one arms an leg at uh time!!"
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Wednesday June 18th, 2008 10:18:13 AM
Tishe' walks easily through the Grasses as only a druid can, but it leaves her mind free to run in circles. Trellus looks tired. Grymash mad, Olaf and Vayine uncertain, and Gilan keeps asking questions and Tacia isn't here. A sniff and a tear are quickly repressed Its getting hot and I hope everyone is protected, I should have used a spell to help Trellus walking, i'm glad the prisoner is with Grymash, the man won't do anything, but Grymash keeps glaring at me... Tishe' looks around to check on the positions of the others. and it's hot and Trellus is tired and where is Gilan oh there he is and what about Flea oh and what about and and and...
By the end of the two hours, Tishe' is sweating from worry and the burden of leadership and very, very glad for the break in movement.
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 Wednesday June 18th, 2008 1:51:43 PM
Sweating under his armor Yanosh realizes he forgot to cast his protection from the heat. "Rest Trellus and I will carry her for a time. I am not asking either. You are not in this alone. And i have pledged my life for the 'Pack." During the rest Yanosh casts endure elements on himself. Remembering something Yanosh digs into his backpack and pulls out the belt he got after the fight at Oddholme. Buckeling it around himself Yanosh feels the power of the belt rush through him.
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) d20+4=6 ; d20+4=22 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 4:21:05 PM
Thanking the Dwarf for the healing, the Drow pats the man on his shoulder and moves towards Trellus. "I don't want to sound blunt but sometimes straight forward honesty is the best. You cannot shoulder all the burdens of the pack on your shoulders alone, It is unwise, and as the Alpha of this pack it is irresponsible for you to feel that way. I know how it is to be a leader, my time at the academy taught me many things, humilty, amoung them. Lash out at me if it helps, but clear your head and take the offered help. I am more than able to shoulder some of the burden as are the rest of the pack, you are not alone, there is no need to live as if you were. Now let the Dwarf and myself carry the lady for sometime, my belt and his stamina will be more then enough for now. you have other concerns to worry yourself with. like How to hide our trail. And one last thing, I know....I've witnessed...(a shudder passes through the Drow) that there are spells that allow one to talk to the spirit of those who have left this plane. we cannot wait much longer if you wish to though. I don't know how long a spirit stays on the plane, but if the message was important then she might still linger. a day, a week, an hour I have no idea but any information could help."
having finished his tough love speech the drow takes the rear guard watching for enemies.
Vayines mind is distracted by all the events of the day and isn't really paying attention to his surrondings, (spot roll=6) but his ears remain open to any sounds, be they conversation, or other (listen =22)
Trellus 3d8+5=18 ; 3d8+5=16 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 4:30:47 PM
As the group begins its journey, Trellus addresses the Vayine's concern about a trail. "The Grass grows back very quickly," he says, pointing to a writhing stem. "Within half a day, no one will know anyone has passed this way."
The blond man picks up Malafret, and plunges into the Plains. Within minutes, he's sweating. Forgot your spell, didn't you? - an inner voice taunts. He ignores it. The internal battle is on, and Trellus can be a very, very, stubborn man.
It takes almost two hours, but the Plains win. Again. At Yanosh's command, the human gives up his burden and nearly collapses onto the ground. Sitting there, head bowed, staring at an odd-shaped root, Trellus begins speaking. Possibly he is talking to Vayine and the Ice Dudes. Or maybe he just needs to talk.
"There is a tribe of manfri that live in caverns carved into a rock outcropping about a day west of Rattledam. We went there. Gry and Gilan and me, and the others. Way back when we started. Its where we got our name - Bloodpack. Its where we started on this path - one that has been chosen for us much more than the other way around. We helped the manfri that day. We helped defeat the Barons in the Kall'a'tek, saved their taudo, and earned their friendship."
The cleric looks up at Yanosh, perhaps seeking to convince him.
"The manfri are the Plains at its purest. I think it is they, most of all, we should seek to protect. I hope they can help us understand...why."
With a sigh, he rises. "Thank you for helping with Malafret." He nods, both at Vayine and Yanosh. "Thank you both. You're totally shady, of course. I can't do this alone."
"Once we get her to the manfri, we'll see what we need to do." Gathering himself, he glances at the 'old' guard. "One thing I'm not doing is going to Gargul," he states decisively. "He made it pretty plain with Ulgren that he doesn't like giving up the dead. And to be honest, I'm not sure he should. Death is part of the Plains as much as life."
"But I am totally certain that if I go, I don't want anybody going before Gargul to ask for me back. I don't want anyone going through what happened to us for me."
Trellus goes about casting protective spells he should've cast long ago, and offers an Endure Elements for any who needs it. [Cast ExtendedMagic Vestment twice, and Endure Elements upon himself.]
Then he takes a very long drink from his waterskin, while taking great care not to spill any.
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) d20+13=26 ; d20+13=27 ; d8+1=7 ; d8+1=8 ; d8+1=6 ; d20+13=28 ; d20+13=16 ; d20+13=32 ; d20+13=18 ; d20+13=29 ; d8+1=3 ; d8+1=8 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+11=22 ; Wednesday June 18th, 2008 5:58:05 PM
Flea pulls out a wand that looks just like the one Vayine is holding out to her. "I'll take your wand," she says, "and put it to good use. But first, let me fix your thread with this older one."
Flea activates the wand 3 times before Vayine moves off to help Trellus.
UMD=26, heal 7 hit points UMD=27, heal 8 hit points UMD=28, heal 6 hit points
The rogue then turns the wand on herself, but has a little more difficulty activating the trigger mechanism. She stops after ministering a little healing to herself.
UMD=16, fail UMD=32, heal 3 hit points UMD=18, fail UMD=29, heal 8 hit points
The rogue trails the pack, casting furtive glances over her shoulder, and listening for any sounds that might signify the pack is being followed.
Spot=24 Listen=22
(OOC: Will add Vayine's wand of Cure Light Wounds to my sheet at the next update.
DM sanity:
Wand of CLW - 34/50 charges Cloak of Comfort
Olaf Wednesday June 18th, 2008 6:54:11 PM
Olaf lips raise into a tight smiles at the gnome's encouraging words, then he shakes his head, replying, "O' course it'd take gettin' used ta. I'm thinkin' it's a tough time past, and now to come...well, I don't know what'll happen. But I can git yer back, that's fer sure."
Following the leader(s) orders, Olaf arrays himself in the center of the 'pack during the march. While cold never bothered him much, this incessant heat gets to him. He becomes lost in his thoughts, thinking of the cold, bitter power that Celsiun is and how these plains might be the Power's match. The revere is interrupted by the strange eyes confronting them. He quickly pulls out his bone shortbow, getting ready in case of ambush.
Gilan Wednesday June 18th, 2008 7:32:54 PM
Gilan tries to keep the pace even and one that the group can keep for at least awhile. He realizes that even he has forgotten to get the aid of spells to resist this heat. As a halt is finally called he pads back to the group with sure confidence. It appears that he has become even more at home in these wilds than before. "I also have a wand that would be of use to stave off the heat...I though can no longer make use of it as it has become beyond my new skills." He shrugs as he holds out a wand for one of the group to take and make use of. "Seems that with greater power comes a few sacrifices." With another though he will move over to stand near Tishe' and with a smile he holds out a different wand. "This one you will find more useful than I will for a long while." If she does not take it right away he will place it in her hand and close her fingers around it. "Use it well...to speak with Father's creatures." As his attention focuses elsewhere for awhile he starts to move around the area to check it out further.
Stopping in his tracks he is looking into a pair of bulbous grey eyes that can only belong to one race upon the Plains. With a wave of his hand to Olaf he smiles to the stranger and makes the ritual gesture of "My Life for the Land". "We come in peace seeking guidance from the Manfri." He glances around to the others as he speaks this last a little louder to let them know they have company. This should also allow those that might be less familiar...even though they might have met the Manfri before, at ease.
[1st wand: Endure Elements Wand - 38 charges] [2nd wand: Speak with Animals Wand - 40 charges - CL6]
Did you find them or did they find you?!?... [ADM StevenVdB] Thursday June 19th, 2008 1:08:02 AM
As they begin their journey through the plains Gry is happy to do as Flea asked and intimidates their prisoner even more. Already he's beginning to doubt what could be worse... a swift death by the hands of the Council or a more painful death when eaten by a Half-Orc...
Not used to taking decisions Tishe' is feeling the burden of being a leader. Her pain for the loss of Malafret and concerns for the Pack trouble her mind as they walk making her sweat and happy to be able to take a short break. By now she most likely realizes what it means to be the Bloodpack Leader... a burden mostly carried by Trellus...
In their haste to leave the Ratteldam surroundings Yanosh forgets to protect himself from the moist heat of the plains. As water begins to pour from under his armor he cast the protective spells so badly needed out here on the plains. He also offers Trellus to share the Cleric's burden and to carry Malafret now and then.
Vayine's love for the pack grows every minute but he knows a leader can not allow himself to be weakened by emotions. He walks with Trellus as the Blond Cleric struggles by the weight of Malafret telling him what he thinks. Though blunt sometimes the straight forward honesty is best...
Not listening to either Yanosh or Vayine, Trellus carries his burden alone... he even ignores the inner voice that reminds him of the protective spells he needs on the plains... it almost begins to look like a pilgrimage... After two hours of suffering... thinking... perhaps even praying the cleric nearly collapses to the ground. The plains have won... Sitting there, head bowed, Trellus begins to speak and tells the others of the Manfri Tribe that live a day west of Rattledam. As that is where the Bloodpack was given their name that is the road they are taking now... Struggeling internally Trellus than accepts Vayine's and Yanosh's offer to help him carry the weight of Malafret but he refuses to give in to the suggestions made by Vayine to summon Malafret's spirit and talk to her from the death... Gargul doesn't like giving back the dead... Ultimately the cleric gives in and cast the protective spells he badly needs out here and feels a lot better right away.
Flea remains rather quiet but makes sure most get healed. She accepts Vayine's wand and stores it in her pack after having used it a couple of times. She then pays attention to the plains and hopes to catch anyone sneaking up on the group.
Like so many others Gilan forgot to cast his protective spells as they left Rattledam. Too many things happened at the same time... Like Vayine Gilan too gives away two wands to the group (if accepting them please update it to your sheets)
Wondering if the bitter power that Celsiun is could be a power match to that of the Plains, Olaf sinks in thoughts as they move through the plains.
When the group call for a halt to give rest to Trellus Gilan stares into a pair of bulbous grey eyes and immediately he knows such eyes only belong to one race out there on the plains... a race that is more at home on the plains than any other... the Manfri... wondering if he found them or they found you Gilan informs the others of their presence. Immediately upon hearing of the eyes that are spotted by Gilan, Olaf pulls out his bone short bow getting ready for an ambush...
Smiling Gilan reassures Olaf that it's no ambush and makes the ritual gesture to the stranger. In turn, the tiny figure of the Manfri steps from the grass... smaller even than Halflings... skin black as night, white snowy hair and the pair of bulbous eyes that stared at Gilan...
Like Gilan the Manfri too holds out his hand palm up in the traditional stop gesture...
"We have been expecting you... it was foretold this way... come."
Then a handful of Manfri step into your path around you... seems they have been following you for some time now! 4 of them carry a piece of canvas hung between two large wooden poles. They put it on the ground and hold out their hands to Trellus.
"Let us carry your fallen friend. She has been embraced by the plains and we will help her to finding her way..."
If Trellus accepts they gently lay down Malafret on the sort of stretcher and carry her.
"Now follow us home" the Manfri that Gilan saw first says.
Adjusting to your pace the Manfri lead you further west -- as expected. Close to nightfall you reach the Manfri Tuado. Gry, Gilan and Trellus remember it as if it were yesterday. They are back where it all started...
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Thursday June 19th, 2008 12:55:37 PM "Oh, thank the Mother!", Tishe' exclaims out loud as the Manfri appear. It looks like they will be brought in safe, and Trellus looks like he has begun thinking again. "It means I don't have to be responsible for everyone anymore", she breathes happily, and returns to her accustomed place as the supporter, not the leader.
Tishe' smiles sadly at the Manfri arriving, for thier appearance reminds her of her first companion, the hy-eena Stripes, who died very similarly to Tacia, of a massive magical lightning strike. "I don't know if I should seek out another companion" she mentions to Gilan. "It seems I lead them to the Lands of Rest."
The wands offered by Gilan make Tishe' happy and she accepts them, but with a sideways look at her friend. "I can of course make use of both of these items, but it is strange how you cannot." She looks around. "Stranger still that Cirian is no longer with you. Did your bargain with Ebyron force you to leave that protective soul in your past?"
Tishe' provides elemental protections for all the Bloodpack that doesn't have their own magical support, (endure elements wand) and then moves with the Manfri and Bloodpack to the tuado. She glances at Grymash, Gilan, and Trellus to assess thier reactions to thier first fight and molding as the Bloodpack. "I wonder if this is an ending or a new beginning?" she wonders aloud.
Trellus Thursday June 19th, 2008 1:19:42 PM
Trellus rises at the arrival of the manfri, a grin appearing on his face for the first time in days. He nods in mute acceptance of their offer to take Malafret.
Tishe's outburst causes the cleric to chuckle, but he lets it pass without comment.
Marching with the manfri seems to lighten the load, and Trellus spends more time doing what he normally does on such hikes - walking up and down the line, checking on his packmates, and chatting with whoever feels like chatting.
Arriving at the taudo, the blond man surveys it, remembering the last time they were here.
Of its own accord, his right hand slowly traces a line back and forth across his stomach.
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 Thursday June 19th, 2008 3:13:42 PM
Seeing the Manfri and remembering them from the last time Yanosh is relieved that they will make it with no dificulty now. Chuckling softly at Tishe's exclamation Yanosh follows the Manffri. Never leaving the side of the body of Malafret. The Cleric of Gargul remembers the Ice Packs one meeting with the Lord of the Lands of Rest. Softly Yanosh prays for Malafrets gentel passage to Garguls side. "I will never ask Lord Gargul again for that Favor." Yanosh agrees with Trellus. "I have come to see that death is a needed part of life."
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) Thursday June 19th, 2008 5:04:29 PM
Vayine places his right fist over his heart, and bows low to the diminuative people. he follows quitely as the party is lead through the grasses, his eyes racing in all directions, taking in the sights and sounds of the plains he now calls home. He feels restless as they near the taudo. he has heard some of the pack discuss the place, in private of course and is curious to see the manifestation of there whispered words.
Olaf Thursday June 19th, 2008 7:58:48 PM
Breathing a sigh of relief, Olaf nods his head to the manfri, and puts away his bow. He stamps on the ground twice, then looks away. "I guess we'll be seein' some new sights, eh? Wonder where we're goin', though, in a figurative kinda way. I'd like to learn some more 'bout the Powers 'round these parts. This Ebyron, he have some sway here?"
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) Thursday June 19th, 2008 11:09:43 PM
Flea remembers the last time she witnessed a plains style funeral.
She rememembers how the walker-woman with the long grey hair had laid out the broken bodies of the little manfri pack that had perished in the great battle to protect the Drake. She remembers how the Mankife had waved a small square of red cloth, then raised both his hands up to the sky vocalising chitters and clicks in his language. A swarm of flying beetles had descended upon the bodies of the dead pack. In seconds the bodies were picked clean, leaving nothing but white bone to be added to the bone nest of future generations of Drake.
Flea tells Vayine, Yanosh and Olaff about this in a low quite voice, just above a whiser. "I wonder if that is what will happen to Malafret. I wonder if that is how plains folks weave their way to Grey-Eye."
Turning to Yanosh, Flea rests a hand on the stout dwarf's thick arm and asks, "when you talk to Grey Eye, does he listen? Do you know if he can hear you or read what is in your heart?" The gnome's pale eyes burn with a secret that has been tormenting her. A shame she has not been able to discuss with the devout, but simple half-orc, and which lays as heavy on her heart as the now cold Tear of the Dragon weighs on her chest.
Gilan[endure elements] Thursday June 19th, 2008 11:36:47 PM
Gilan seems to get a pained expression at the mention of Ciaran as he had come attached to him. "When I decided to walk that path of the beast...Ciaran was weakened somehow. I could not take him with me as I did not want to see him killed." He lays a hand upon Tishe's shoulder and squeezes it lightly as he does ot mean to bring up a sore subject. "Still the parting cost me dearly as he was family, closer than most could ever be to me." He knows that she will understand and he hopes that she realizes his sympathy for her own plight. "As for the wands...I can still use the one to speak with animals but it would be better served with you as you call upon help. The other wand is out of my abilities now as there were other sacrifices that needed to be made to gain my new powers." There is a sadness to him but also a glimmer of hope that he can somehow be more useful to the group and he knows that Ciaran will be well cared for. "Father is taking care of Ciaran. In fact he was the one that insisted on it as part of our deal."
As they start back out, Gilan finds the time to speak with Trellus at lenght as they travel. He feels the pain that he is feeling as they are two that new Malafret so well. He also speaks to him of his new abilities, the strengths and weaknesses of what he has decided to embrace. Though he no longer is able to touch much of the magic that he once did, including the effects of healing...he has gained the ability to take upon wear the skin of greater creatures.
At last they come to the Tuado and he stops just outside the sandy area that makes up the center. Old memories seep into his mind and bring a smile to his face. "Seems so long ago...but yet so fresh. To think that a decision we made then would shape our lives now." With a lot of respect he moves slowly into the sandy area and kneels to touch the ground in reverance. He glances to Gymash and Trellus, feeling a lot of the things that they are most likely experiencing right now. "I have no regrets about that day...nor any regrets for the choices that I have made today." He lets the sand slip through his fingers and smiles.
The Manfri Taudo... [ADM StevenVdB] Friday June 20th, 2008 6:54:02 AM
Trellus rises at the arrival of the Manfri and for the first time in days a grin appears on his face. He accepts their offer to take Malafret.
"Oh, thank the mother!" Tishe' exclaims out loud as the Manfri appear, and when Trellus breaks free from his thoughts the mystic is happy that she will no longer have to guide the Pack.
Yanosh and Trellus chuckle at Tishe's outburst but no one comments.
While pleased the Manfri are here it also brings back thoughts for Tishe' of her beloved companions. Stripes and Tacia both were taken from her in similar ways... wondering if she only leads her companions to the lands of Rest she consults Gilan and wonder where his companion Cirian is... The thought of Cirian pains Gilan but he explains Tishe' that with his new powers he seemed to have lost some of his older ones... he could no longer keep Cirian for it would have killed him. Anyhow he knows he is being cared for by the Father.
Vayine bows low to the Manfri and follows his friends to where the Manfri guide them. Trellus, Grymash and Gilan know the way... or at least they know the right heading... Olaf to is pleased to see the Manfri again and wonders what they will see next... As they walk he questions the Pack of the Powers around these parts of the Wold. Wondering who Ebryon is...
During the journey to the Taudo Flea tells more about burrials out here in the plains and wonders if this will also be the way for Malafret to go...
Walking with the Manfri seems to lighten the load. Yanosh walks alongside with Trellus and agrees that disturbing Lord Gargul isn't the right way. Death is a needed part of life...
Gry quietly marshes with his family towards the Taudo he has seen before.
Close to nightfall the Bloodpack spots a huge rock outcropping in the distance. To Trellus, Gilan and Grymash this is a familiar sight and they know they have arrived at the Manfri Taudo. Soon they enter the flat semi circle of sand at the base of the rock formation.
The first time the original Pack laid eyes on the Taudo was during the Kall'a'tek ceremony, the Freedom Ceremony. Back in the days when choices had to be made between fighting along side the Manfri, joining the Bounders or stay out of it. Having taken side of the Manfri the pack successfully fought the Bounders helping the Manfri to win the Kall'a'tek ceremony.
The sight of the Taudo brings back memories to Trellus, Gry and Gilan of their long gone older pack members Milo, Sterlin, Anuk and Jacob. It was also the moment the pack became known as the Bloodpack...
At the end of the fight they had to cut out the hearts of their slain opponents... drenched in blood from head to toe it was Anuk who first suggested to take on the name "Bloodpack"
Exposing the tunnel entrance the Manfri guide you all into the Taudo.
The well-lit passageway leads downwards towards the inner chambers. Several corridors branching of sideways make Olaf, Vayine, Yanosh, Tishe' and Flea wonder exactly how vast this taudo is... (ooc please excuse me Tishe' and Flea if either of you has already seen the taudo before -- I was under the impression neither of you had)
As they come to the center room they see Araxo, the Shaman, waiting for you... The Manfri carrying Malafret lay down her body in front of him.
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Friday June 20th, 2008 12:11:58 PM
Tishe' shares a moment of understanding with Gilan about the losses of their companions. "I am glad that Cirian can run free in the Wold and has not gone to the Lands of Rest before his time", she tells Gilan. "We have both chosen to weave different patterns from pure druidism, and will have to be satisfied with how this pattern appears." She cocks her head at her packmate. "And it spins out that we are on different patterns as well. While you now revere Ebyron as 'Father', I can only see him as a step-father to the Wold, worthy of respect certainly, but I shall continue my devotion to the Mother, Ma'ab."
The tuado brings out Tishe's curiosity, and she is amazed at the vastness of the underground tunnels. (ooc: nope, never been here :-) Silently, she agrees with Yanosh and Trellus, that death must follow life as part of the whole. She opens and closes her hand that has been permenantly imprinted with the Eye of Gargul and recalls when the mark was laid upon her by the Grey Lord. "Death is a part of life, but I would be willing to go to the Gray Halls again. Just not quite yet."
Tishe' reverently remains quiet and places herself as part of the semi-circle facing the Manfri shaman. Her hand goes to pet Tacia, but then she places her hand in the satchel around her neck and pets the horned toad, Wart, living within.
Jerry Friday June 20th, 2008 3:25:43 PM
OOC: Hey Bloodied ones! I have sent the group an email that requires a reply from each individual player. Please check your email and send me the reply.
If you didn't get it, email me at gericko@gmail.com to say you didn't get it.
Trellus Friday June 20th, 2008 4:21:15 PM
Olaf asks about Ebyron, and Trellus shrugs in reply. "Don't think anybody 'holds sway', but the Plains seem to have changed -- sidelong glance at Gilan -- since Spider Dude returned to the Wold and promised to reform."
He follows the manfri through the tunnels, into a chamber he occupied once before. That time, though, he was semi-conscious most of the duration, so he takes a good look around.
In the center of the room is the Shaman, Araxo. Him, Trellus remembers. The cleric approaches and holds up his right hand, palm facing the manfri. "Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki" he intones, tentatively sending a heart touch out to the shaman.
The human can't help but think Araxo already knows what happened and why they've come.
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) 2nd Post Friday June 20th, 2008 8:05:30 PM
Tishe' also goes over to Olaf upon hearing the Ice Vien man ask about Ebyron. "We don't know of a particular Power that governs the Sargrass, unlike Celisiun of Ice Vien. Ebyron and Ma'ab are the King and Queen of Nature and the Fey; commonly called by those in druidic circles as Father Wold and Mother Wold. Ma'ab is more predictable and protective, and Ebyron is more chaotic and destructive but they are both faces of Nature in all its aspects."
She smiles as Trellus refers to Ebyron as 'Spider Dude'. "When Ebyron was reborn recently, there was a great upheaval in the natural order. Ebyron's avatar was split and one part came to the Sargrass riding on a gigantic spider. The Bloodpack defeated this avatar and heroic groups around the Wold fought other avatars of Ebyron."
"Since then, natural powers have been stronger in the Sargrass and we've been seeing mutations of the normal creatures." She pauses and cocks her head in thought. "I wonder if the Manfri would have any answers to that as well?"
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) Friday June 20th, 2008 9:26:24 PM
Flea trudges along beside Yanosh, near the back of the pack.
The rogue has been in Manfri hideouts kind of like the Taudo, but not this actual place. She compares it to the discription Anuk had provided to her, for she had joined the Bloodpack very soon after they had fought with the Manfri and knowledge of the place was fresh in the pack's mind.
Flea doesn't feel a stranger to the Sargrass, and she has pledged her allegiance to the pack, and to this land. Still their is a little part of her that remembers the barrow of her youth, and another little part of her that remains with a certain citizen of Zarnan City and Ice Vein.
Gilan[endure elements] Friday June 20th, 2008 10:20:40 PM
Gilan moves forward slowly to follow the Manfri into the inside of the Taudo. As he looks around he finds that even down here he feels a oneness with the land. It makes his smile and then they are before the spiritual leader of the Manfri.
He gives a short bow and brings his right hand up with the palm facing out. He cocks his head to the side as he has a question that he would love to ask of this Manfri but he cannot bring himself to ask it. Maybe it is because the rest of his pack would hear his doubt or maybe it was because he was bothered by the answer he might get. "Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki." He goes with safer oath that they took.
As he glances to the body that has been laid out before the man he feels a lot of guilt...though he knows that she would never blame him. His pack might never have survived that fight without they use of their stuff and in some ways he is glad he did it. Would it have made a difference if he would have done diffirently...he doubts it. Still he is determined to remember the face of that rogue that shot Malafret...remember and find him.
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) 3rd Post Saturday June 21st, 2008 12:28:38 PM
Tishe' also follows her packmates lead and holds up her right hand, palm facing the manfri. "Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki" she says with a slight bow.
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 Saturday June 21st, 2008 3:17:10 PM
At her question Yanosh turns and looks at Flea, "I know that Gargul listens when I talk to him. His answers may not come eaisily or when I wish them to. And yes He knows what is in your heart but One must be strong enough to stand and state what is there." Yanosh looks at the ground as he continues, " I serve Him as because I wanted a friend to come back to the Ice Vein. But that Friend wished to stay in the Lands of Rest. He did agree to come back to help us find the Shield of Domi but for reasons unknown to us he never came." Yanosh drwas a shuddering breath and continues to walk along. "One must be strong and go on." He says quietly almost to himself.
When the Pack reaches the Tuado Yanosh looks around and wonders at the site. When they enter the underground area Yanosh cant help but wonder at the resemblance to other underground homes he has been in. Entering the room with the Shaman Yanosh stays to the back out of the way. Watching the rest show their respects, Yanosh studies them to learn what they say and what gestures they use.
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) Saturday June 21st, 2008 7:10:33 PM
"Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki" Vayine says, mimicking his packmates gestures in an effort to pay his respects to the Manfri, and not break custom. He gives Tishe' a confused look over the words he has uttered but knows that an answer will come at a more approprate time.
The Manfri Taudo... [ADM StevenVdB] Monday June 23rd, 2008 1:36:15 AM
As the Bloodpack follows the Manfri to the Taudo Olaf, Tishe', Yanosh and Trellus talk about the plains and about the powers that control it.
Tishe' and Gilan spend a moment of understanding about the losses of their companions and discuss the paths they chose. Both followed the path of the Druid but within different constraints.
Later as they enter the Taudo Tishe' is amazed at the vastness of the underground tunnels and as she faces the Manfri Shaman her hand is automatically drawn to Tacia... Flea has been in Manfri hideouts like this taudo, but not this actual place and compares it with the descriptions Anuk provided to her.
Trellus can't help but think the Shaman Araxo already knows why the Bloodpack has come. Facing him in the center of the room he holds up his right hand greeting him. Gilan too gives a short bow and brings his hands up with the palm facing out as he stands before the Shaman. Eager to asking questions he goes with the safer oath. Though he has been here before, Grymash remains quiet and stands with his family.
Yanosh, Olaf and Vayine mimic the way their Pack mates greet the shaman.
Standing the old Shaman comes closer to the pack. He observes each and every one of you intently and it feels as if he's inside your head.
"The Pack has changed..." he says looking to Trellus, Gilan and Grymash "You, I have seen before... you" looking to Flea, Tishe', Vayine, Olaf and Yanosh "I have not seen before. "
"I am Araxo, Speaker of my people, Defender of the Five Circles, Servant of the Wind. I welcome you into our home. It was told by the wind that a pack would come to us this day... that it would be the ones who walk with Blood who will unravel the mystery of the Plains... we knew this day would come... and we knew it would be you... we knew it the day you helped us win the Kall'a'Tek ceremony..."
Suddenly one of the doors surrounding the central halls are opened in a hurry and a plump Manfri barges into the room... Trellus, Gilan and Gry recognize this Manfri to be Svard... the cook. She looks at the Pack as if she's looking for someone... but as she can't find Milo, who helped her make dinner last time the pack was here, she makes a sad face and then retreats back into the kitchen...
Interrupted by Svard, Araxo then walks over to the body of Malafret.
"It is with great sadness that I see the Lady Malafret laying here on the ground. Sadness for her departure but happy to know her spirit is now ready to be free. She will receive out greatest honor and will be offered our ceremonial burial at dawn."
"I can sense you all have questions and you all have suffered. Never mourn those who have passed on before you. Your companion, "he says looking into Tishe's eyes "now runs free over the green plains. Be joyful for this. Be joyful that your friend now is free... "
Then he looks to your prisoner...
"You are also welcome in our home... it is not by vengeance that we shall be saved. However you can not attend to this gathering. I would like you to rest and enjoy a good meal in the room that will be prepared for you. Please..." and Araxo makes a gesture to follow a pair of Manfri that are waiting to escort the prisoner to his room.
Once the prisoner is gone Araxo claps in his hands and the kitchen doors open. Svard and a few other manfri come out carrying lots of plates with various dishes and pitchers with Wine and some very light milk.
"First we eat and celebrate your return here. Then you can ask questions..."
Olaf Monday June 23rd, 2008 1:10:58 PM
Olaf goes along with the flow, sensing that these Manfri are almost a surrogate family for those from Rattledam. Indeed, they seem to treat the 'pack with more respect and conviviality than the council could ever deign to. He introduces himself to Araxo, the speaker, saying, "It be nice ta see some friendly faces in these plains. I'm Olafr, Olaf for short, and only been here a week or two. Mighty hot place you got."
Trellus Monday June 23rd, 2008 4:17:55 PM
As Vayine repeats the greeting/oath to the manfri, Trellus leans over and quietly whispers into the drow's ear.
"The Land, My Life."
Araxo continues, and the cleric nods. "Thank you for honoring Malafret in this way. She means a great deal to us." Trellus totally ignores the prisoner. The manfri have their own way, and he's beginning to think he should emulate it more closely. Even in combat, these dudes never seem truly unhappy. Just, well, accepting, really.
And as soon as he thinks that, Svard appears. The blond man's face falls, and he shakes his head sadly. Milo isn't here. The halfling stands on his driftwood raft, firing magic missiles. The bounder is huge, and comes out of nowhere. It leaps, maw open..... Trellus shakes the image from his head, and takes a long drink from the oddly flavored milk.
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 Monday June 23rd, 2008 4:32:40 PM
Quietly the Dwarven Cleric watches. He only nos when spoken to. Wrapped tightly in his burned scarf Yanosh hides once agian with in his self. Burned and scarred the Dwarf can only wait for rest so he can further heal himself further.
Grymash Monday June 23rd, 2008 6:07:38 PM
Grymash is quite glad to be with the manfri again. His mood lightens much with the warmth of their welcome. However, he shoots a look with eyes like daggers at the prisoner as he is lead off. A look that is unmistakable. A look that says, if you do any wrong, you will prefer the fires of hell over Grymash's fury. Only after the prisoner leaves his view does his warm and pleasant demeanor return.
Grymash will honor their hosts desires, feasting and merriment before business. However, he thinks of good questions to ask. Like, "How did the wind tell you we were coming." Grymash has listened to the wind all the time and never heard it spoke to him. He wishes he knew how.
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) Monday June 23rd, 2008 7:08:00 PM
It seems there will be some quiet time before the pack has to do anything. There will be a little time for recovery and reflection.
Flea seeks out the scarred dwarf once gain. "Yanosh," she begins. "I have been to see Gargul. More than once. In the Shadowlands" The rogue waits to see how the cleric of Gargul reacts before continueing. "I don't think he likes me very much," she volunteers adding,"when he asked how many times we might come to see him on behalf of fallen comrades, I spoke the truth as I kneew it. He got all angry, and said," Flea lowers her voice to a baritone, and repeats: "SOME OF YOU ARE NOW CLOSED OF FROM THE REALM OF THE SHADOW LANDS. YOU ARE CLOSED OFF FROM DEATH. I WILL NOT TAKE YOU NO MATTER WHAT. YOU WILL LIVE UNTIL YOU ARE SO OLD AND TOOTHLESS THAT YOU CAN UNDERSTAND THE LESSON I NEED TO TEACH. SOME OF YOU ARE STILL OPEN TO DEATH. SOME OF YOU CAN DIE AND WILL DIE. SOME OF YOU ARE NOW IMORTAL. YOUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS ARE NOW DIFFRENT FROM YOU."
Flea takes a deep breath, and her voice returns to its normal feminine pitch, "ever since then, I haven't been able to send the 'heart touch' to my friends through the Dragon Tear.
The rogue makes a pouty face, and waits to see what Yanosh might have to say about all this.
(For extra info: Highlight to display spoiler: { see archives from March 2006...)}
Gilan Monday June 23rd, 2008 7:12:46 PM
Gilan listens intently to what is being said, only turning his head to look in the direction of an odd sound. He notices the plump Manfri woman and for a minute his own mind brings back memories of another time and place. A friend that was eaten by a very large rapke...another one that was taken before his time. Part of him wishes to believe that their friend is indeed still alive, somewhere cooking up new dishes and delighting the tongue.
As he turns back to the here and now he nods his head again. "Everything follows the circle...though it is hard to remember that at times." His eyes fall to the body of Malafret and he smiles slightly. She would not want them to be sad of that he is sure. His smile broadens as the Manfri remembers him from before and he once again cuts a bow. "Well it is to meet you again...a long time it seems." In this place, the troubles of the outside seem to slip away and be forgotten...at least for a time.
He is happy that Malafret will get the honors of a Manfri burial. It seems more appropriate than anything else and in fact...he feels that it is something that she might have wanted. Then the prisoner is lead away and the doors open to a fair amount of food. His stomache growls and he suddenly finds that he is rather starving.
With the rest of his pack, family or whatever they have truely come to be...he seats himself and partakes of a fine feast with them. He wonders how much the Manfri know about the powers he has taken on and if they could guide him any. Smiling he shakes it from his mind as now is not the time...questions later.
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) Monday June 23rd, 2008 8:36:20 PM
Vayine nods his head, keeping quite and watching everything. picking up the customs of the small folk. he keeps close to the party though.
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Monday June 23rd, 2008 9:06:45 PM
Tishe' tries to emulate the manfri around her. "Just be", she tells herself while exhaling. From there, somewhere within herself, the young woman is able to eat and drink in peace while listening to the speech of others. The final warnings of Grymash to the young man. The questions of Yanosh and Olaf. The observant Vayine. The story of Flea again brings back the memory of the last time the Bloodpack visited Gargul. "Just be", she tells herself again. And the young woman tries to learn...
"Now is the time for questions"... [ADM StevenVdB] Tuesday June 24th, 2008 6:47:22 AM
As the dishes come out the Bloodpack feels more at home than they ever felt in Rattledam. Olaf senses they treat the Pack with more respect than the council ever could. He in turn introduces himself to Araxo. As he makes a remark to the heat on the plains Araxo smiles and answers : "Yes... things on the Plains are not like any other place in the Wold... that too has its reasons..."
Trellus is content to know Malafret will be given the right ceremony and is touched by the Manfri way of life... how they accept even death so easily. Perhaps their way of life should become part of his? The sight of Svard and how she reacts brings back painful memories of friends that have been brutally takes from the Pack... Milo... brave lad he was... but perhaps he too is now happy and free... Like Trellus, Gilan too hopes their friend is still some where cooking up new dishes and delighting the tongue... Tishe' too tries to emulate the manfri around her and tries to be joyful ... just be... she speaks to herself... just be... In time the young woman will learn.
Yanosh stands quietly listening to Araxo's words and hides again behind his scarf... Araxo eyeballs Yanosh encouraging him to speak his name : "Why do you hide the scars that show who you truly are? We all have scars and they make us the men we are... bear your scars with pride master dwarf for they show your true self..." Araxo then points to another Manfri who also wears a 5 circle pendant. He comes closer to Yanosh and touches his wounds healing Yanosh. (back to full HP) "The wounds of your soul we can not mend. We can only hope to guide you on your way."
Like Yanosh, Vayine also keeps quiet and watching everything. He notices Araxo smiling at him also encouraging him to tell more of his time before he joined the Pack.
Grymash is quite glad to be back with the Manfri. Shooting an anGry glance as the prisoner leaves the room Gry afterwards makes time for merrymaking. Thinking what questions he can ask the Manfri... and wonders how he should speak to the wind... Gry tried but the wind never answers...
As Araxo remembers Gilan the Druid/Shifter smiles and returns the welcome.
During dinner Flea tells Yanosh of her dealings with Lord Gargul. How she angered him but lives... though with a curse that is beyond her imagination... Gilan enjoys the fine meal and wonder if the Manfri could tell more about the powers he has taken on... no his stomach aches more than his mind at the moment so there will be time for questions later.
After a lengthy meal the nearly empty plates are brought back to the kitchen. Araxo, sitting at the head of the table, smiles to each of you.
"Now is the time for questions... "
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 11:19:04 AM
The meal and the company relax the plain-faced mystic, and she is able to keep herself in the moment, even smiling and maintain polite conversation. She tells the others of her hometown of Hook City, the magical place where her parents, Mara the weaver and Dafydd the bard, had settled after being sent from Rattledam. How Tishe' spent her younger years outshined by her three talented and beautiful older sisters, but finally it was Tishe's magic that brought the family lasting status in Hook City. How she joined a group of Protectors to hone her skills before finally pushing out on her own to resolve the mystery of why her parents had left fabled Rattledam.
Dinner over, the kindly looking Araxo opens the circle to questions, and the plain-faced woman just can't hold her curiosity back any further.
"What is the secret of the Sargrass, Sieur Araxo?" she asks in the accent of Hook City. "The life of the Bloodpack has been suffering and dying in defense of the land which we know to be worthy of protection. Yet we are stymied by an incomplete knowledge."
The Bloodpack has learned of the circle of life; how Prarie Pigs become Brakke, become Rapke, then Ranthom, Sarg Moths, and Drakes. We have learned of the war between the 'grasses and the druid trees. We know that the past holds a Sargrass filled with forests and not a burning land. And we know of a great golden door unopened beneath Rattledam." She pauses and looks at the Manfri leader. "Yet we do not know why. The balance may be important. Change may be necessary. Our action or inaction could be vital in maintaining or changing. Yet without knowing what the land knows, we increasingly have the capability to make a mistake that can shake the entire Sargrass."
She looks plaintively at the assembled peoples. "Is it now time for us to learn the rest of the story?"
Olaf Tuesday June 24th, 2008 1:17:51 PM
A look of understanding dawns on the young blond man's face, as Tishe illuminates the connection between the different creatures of the plains. Addressing Araxo, he adds, "Don't mean to be interruptin' or nothin', but I'm also mighty curious 'bout who holds sway over these creatures. In a metaphysical sense, I mean. I figure if we're goin' be setting out to right a thing or two, we're gonna know what we're up against, too."
Yanosh AC 20--HP67/76 Tuesday June 24th, 2008 5:01:02 PM
When the Manfri healers heals Yanosh he looks at Araxo, "I hide my face because the scars I have are beyond any mortal healing. I am ugly even to Dwarves. I have been called Monster, Freak, Terror from the Caves. I have been driven from my home and chased from every town and city I have tryed to live in. I have served as a city guard, mercenary and body guard. But in the end it is all the same i am told to leave or die." Yanosh looks kindly at his Pack as they rest and eat. Looking lovingly at Flea his eyes sofen, "Then one day I was lost in a snow storm so bad you could see nothing. Not even your hand infront of your face. Then a Dwarf with ice for eyes came to me and lead me to safety. When the snowed cleared I was faced with what i knew was once again a threat to my staying somewhere. A pack of tundra hunters from a village called Ice Peaks. With Axe in hand I readied myself. Then a small and wise one stepped forward. Next I knew I was walking with them to rescue a girl child from the village. Their small Wizard asked me questions as to who I was and I found my self telling them. I thought I found a home. I was accepted as one of the Village. A Wunjo. Then the pack fell apart. Bohdi left us and went to Zarnan City. The rogue left after we met a friendly Orc village. Garrett our leader was killed. Even when we met Olaf and a ranger and elf druid we were still weak inside. Not quite strong enough to defeat the Ice Witch we make a deal that costs us yet another life. My scars are who I am. I am a Monster, a Freak and a Terror." Yanosh stands and takes off his scarf off. his bald head is covered with a mass of angry looking burn scars. the left side of his face is also coverd in the scars. His red Mustache and Goatee are singed and scortched from their latest battle. In a Booming Voice he speaks "I am Yanosh Ironfist of the BloodPack. From the Sargrass Plains. This is who I am. The land, My Life. Talki Fresal, Dondat Liki."
Looking at Flea yanosh speaks softly so only she can hear. "I serve a harsh but loving God. Your life will end one day. But only after you learn that death must come to us all." With that he kisses her head softly and sit down to eat.
Yanosh Tuesday June 24th, 2008 5:02:08 PM
OoC sorry I dont usually get so carried away.
Gilan Tuesday June 24th, 2008 7:58:06 PM
Gilan enjoys himself as they eat and drink. He listens to the talks around him but does not really join in. Thinking over the questions that need to be asked his mind is occupied with that. Finally the dishes are cleaned away and it becomes time to ask those questions.
As he waits, some of the others ask those questions that are most important to the pack right now. He does have one question that he does not think that the Manfri can answer...there is only one person that could do that, Gargul. With the death of Malafret he realizes that to let go of a soul is more than just a simple act. It requires a true need and it seems that they had forgotten that or at least some of them had when they last talked to Gargul. Though he knows that he would go before the god again for the sake of one of his packmates...he was more determined to make sure that it never had to happen.
Sighing, he nods his head and wonders how he could convey this message to Gargul. Would praying to him get the message to him. Though it might be strange to say that you are sorry to a god, he had wronged the god and now he was just figureing that out. "Gargul forgive me." He voice is low and he doubts that anyone else would hear him.
Shaking his head he turns back to the things that he can do now. What else is there to ask the Manfri that has not already been asked...then it hits him...it is so simple. "How about we start at the beginning...I think that a history lesson is in order. How about you tell us of the Sargrass as it once was? What happened along the way to make it the way it is now. Maybe by doing that, we will learn all that we need to know." He sits back and waits to see if his idea is worth at least a comment.
Trellus Tuesday June 24th, 2008 9:09:47 PM
Trellus listens, and wonders at his friends' questions. He would not have asked most of them, accustomed to getting the mystical run-around whenever he had before. But, maybe, this time, someone will come out and give an answer.
He hopes so.
Glancing at Flea, the blond man speaks up. "Malafret - just before she died - she said a great power, a great secret is hidden under Rattledam. Then she said to find you."
"What's under Rattledam?"
A thought occurs - "And why would she send us to you?"
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 10:12:40 PM
Vayine places his hand on Yanosh's shoulder. " Brother, when we walk the plains again, or we have time in this village, I will share my story with you, I think you will find that we are closer then you know. I feel your pain, and share your burden."
Vayine looks the Dwarf in the eyes, his lavender eyes can barely be seen through the smoked glass goggles.
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) Tuesday June 24th, 2008 10:24:28 PM
Looking from Tishe' to Trellus, Flea asks her one question, "the Golden Door in the cave with all the handprints. What's behind the Golden Door?"
"Now is the time for questions"... [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday June 25th, 2008 3:00:42 AM
Before the questioning starts Yanosh opens up as he reveals his true self. The Mankife smiles at him saying: "No matter how burned of scared your face becomes master dwarf, forever a worthy dwarf will be in your soul. May you never cover your face anymore in our presence. You are forever welcome in our homes. May you find the home you have been looking for here in our beloved Sargrass and may you have found the family you wanted with the ones who share our meals."
Vayine joins Yanosh and places a hand on his shoulder. Neither of them was at home here but perhaps now they will.
Araxo sits quietly as the Bloodpack launches one question after the other... He allows the Pack to continue asking questions as he himself will choose what to answer first...
"What is the secret of the Sargrass?" Tishe' asks first and makes a passionate statement that the Bloodpack has seen things on the plains they can not explain. Perhaps now the time has come to learn the rest of the story?
Olaf nods in agreement with Tishe' and hopes answers will be given indeed. After all, if they are asked to protect the plains they need to know what awaits them...
"How about we start at the beginning... How about you tell us of the Sargrass as it once was? What happened to make it the way it is now?" Gilan continues
"Malafret said a great power, a great secret is hidden under Rattlemdam and said to find you... What's under Rattledam? And why did she send us to you?" Trellus adds.
Then Flea asks the one question that has been burning inside her ever since she tries to open the lock of the Golden Door... "What's behind the Golden Door?"
Araxo remains silent as he thinks through all they have asked... Then in a slow, intoxicating voice he begins his story...
"Once, before a great shift in the Wold, the plains were lush and pleasant. Grasses weren't this tall and animals were like any other place in the Wold. This was in times even before we Manfri were what we are now. When the great shift came something terrible happened... soon afterwards the city of Rattledam was founded and the order of the 5 circles was created. Men and Manfri had sworn to protect this secret... a secret that would be a threat to the Wold and especially to the Sargrass.
I'm sure you have all heard of the River of Blood that carries us all from this life to the next? The Rives flows form the Lands of Rest, through the Realms of Shadow into the Living Wold. This substance is also named Woldsblood... a dangerous substance that holds the power of those who have gone before us.
No where in the Wold this Woldsblood surfaces or at least it should not. Being close to it already puts an incredible stress on your soul. Few have lived to see and tell... at least not with sane minds...
However there are a few places out here on the Sargrass where the Woldsblood comes very close to the surface. In one place it even broke through the surface and poured out on the Plains... The Blood had to be contained and secured. None would be allowed to experiment and gain control of the Blood... That's where Rattledam was founded... and with it the order of the 5 circles who has sworn to protect this secret and protect this source of Woldsblood...
That is what is to be found behind the Golden Door... It opens to the well of Woldsblood...
This surfacing of the Woldsblood has also had a cataclysmic effect on the Sargrass... grasses started to grow wild, animals grew to what you know now..."
Then Araxo waits a few moments...
"This is what we have sworn to protect and so have you before the Lady Malafret when you were standing in front of the Gold Door. That's where you have sworn your oath for the first time... Malafret and I have monitored your progress and we knew one day you had to learn the secret in order to protect. Malafret knew they day had come and so she send you on your way to here... here where it all started..."
Yanosh Wednesday June 25th, 2008 1:25:17 PM
with the first mention of the Woldsblood Yanosh casts a glance at Olaf to watch his reaction. Yanosh recalls his own trip to bargan with the God of Life and Death. Riasing to his feet Yanosh asks his own Question, "If Rattledam is to protect the Well of Woldsblood, Then what are we needed to do? Are we to do away with the council? Is there corruption? Is Rattledam under threat? Gargul guide me for I am lost at what we are needed for. We have been cast out of Rattledam, how can we help?"
Grymash Wednesday June 25th, 2008 4:51:11 PM "Gry know da river of blood dat flow ta Lord Gargul. Gargul bless Gry wit dreams of da blood river. Gry be sittin' on da shore an watch da flow. It bring da calm an peace ta Gry mind, chase da mad away, so Gry can hears da words of da Master ... an understand. But even in dream, Gry told not ta touch da blood. For even in dream, da blood may no let back to awake world." Grymash ponders a little more. "Dat do make sense ... dat woldblood change da Sargrass. Da power in da blood be most great!
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Wednesday June 25th, 2008 6:44:38 PM
"Five Circles?" Tishe' wonders, "Woldsblood?" She has to think about this for awhile, and sees where the others wil lead with thier questions. "I can't see the pattern yet", she says to Wart as the horned toad looks at her with its large eyes, "but I will, just get a couple more strings in the loom and I will."
Trellus Wednesday June 25th, 2008 9:33:52 PM
Trellus listens, and wonders. Of its own accord, his right hand reaches back to vigorously rub the stubble on the back of his neck. As is his custom, the cleric tries to understand by paraphrasing back what he just heard.
"The appearance of this Woldsblood so close to the surface of the Wold changed the Plains into what they are now," he says. "And Rattledam stands on top of a well to the Woldsblood, to guard it."
The blond man ponders some more. And then more. Finally, he looks up, somewhat confused. "OK, I'm with Yanosh. The place IS guarded. The monks got it locked up tight. What do we gotta do with it?"
Olaf Wednesday June 25th, 2008 9:34:33 PM
Olaf thinks back to his one time in Gargul's realm, when his errant curiosity almost made him go insane. "Woldsblood...nasty stuff, that. Unlucky I might be, but I was lucky when I did not succeed in trapping some for my own curiosity. To think of it flowing free! It's...it's a horror. Could Rattledam have lost their way? Might this monstrosity be set loose on the many? I'm thinkin' this can't be good."
Gilan Wednesday June 25th, 2008 10:10:02 PM
Listening with a lot more attention to the short history lesson his brow furrows in both thought and wonder. The news of Woldsblood on the surface of the Wold itself is enough to set most back or at least it does him. Swallowing he wonders if this is maybe a test as well from Gargul. "What must Gargul think of this?" His own musings are outloud and the rest of his pack can more than hear him. Still he cannot see what this might have to do with them or even with Rattledam itself.
Surely it would be bad if Woldsblood got into the wrong hands, but they would have to find a way to handle it safely. Was the council protecting the populace from the Woldsblood or the Woldsblood from the populace. It would go far to explain the reason for such secrecy and the reason that they were to be killed.
As his eyes come back up to stare at the Manfri he cocks his head to the side. "So, why would the council want to maintain the way things are now. Would it not make more sense to return to what was before and right the flow of Woldsblood. I mean, Gargul must not like Woldsblood being on the surface of the Wold and surely he would want to put it back in his own possession and safe from those that would use it for evil." Once again, some of his musings are more to try and get things straight in his head...but there are a lot of questions in there as well. "If we are to have a role in this...are we to return the Woldsblood to Gargul then, destroy it...which would most likely be impossible and foolhardy. Or are we to help in guarding the secret of its exhistance to those that might seek to use it...including the council if they are somehow at fault here." He had thought some of the council to be good people and now he was starting to have his doubts. Big problem, they could not ask about it now and even if they could...surely it would lead to their deaths or worse...mindwipes.
Looking to the rest he cannot argue with anyones thoughts and questions. He still holds out somekind of hope that the council may just be, being too careful. What have the tried? Too many questions.
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) Thursday June 26th, 2008 12:37:11 AM
Flea is just plain gobsmacked when the little manfri leader type reveals the big secret.
The gnome had heard about the magical rivers that ran under the crust of the Wold, but she had always though it was just some made up story from here great aunt. Her mother had always said that her elder sister was a witch, but Flea had never believed her.
Witches didn't weren't really real. Were they?
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Thursday June 26th, 2008 1:22:18 AM
(Sorry friends I completely forgot about the report this week... it just hit me this morning... Here's the report of last week. Gry and Olaf, please try to be more active.)
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of June 16 - June 22
Bearing the heavy burden of several losses the Bloodpack takes its chances out on the Plains once again. Gilan shows the way towards the Manfri Taudo where it all started for the Bloodpack... Where they first used this name. After a two hour walk, Gilan suddenly notices a pair of grey eyes staring at him...
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
"Now you know... We seek your help..." [ADM StevenVdB] Thursday June 26th, 2008 2:09:10 AM
As Araxo finishes his tale the Bloodpack at first appears to be speechless... though that never lasts long with such hardened adventurers...
Grymash confirms the fact that the Woldsblood does hold awesome powers that even in a dream could not let you back to the awake anymore... and he finds it understandable that the Plains have gone through such a cataclysmic change by the power of the Woldsblood...
Olaf though thinks back to his time in Gargul's realm when he came near the Woldsblood... to think of it flowing free strikes him as pure horror!
Flea is just plain gobsmacked (is that English?!?) when Araxo reveals the big secret as she had always thought tales of the River of Woldsblood to be made up stories...
Tishe' can't see the pattern yet and listens to the others without interfering much.
Wondering how the Lord Gargul might feel of this Gilan ponders the mere thoughts of a river of Woldsblood being this close to the surface. Why then would the Council maintain the things as they are?!? Why not setting things straight and put the Woldsblood back in Gargul's possession.
But one question lies on the lips of many of our friends. Yanosh voices it first.
"What are we needed to do?"
"The place IS guarded... What do we gotta do with it?"Trellus adds...
"Surely the Woldsblood in the wrong hands would be devastating..." Gilan muses "but what's our role in this? Are we to return the Woldsblood to Gargul? Destroy it? Or are we to help in guarding the secret of its existence to those that might seek to use it..."
Araxo smiles but remains quiet and takes a long drink of the light milk...
"You see why this must be kept a secret? Just the mere thought of it brings a twinkling in your eyes of both horror and curiosity. If I were to respond to the question: 'What's your role in it' I'd say you have already said it yourselves... you are to help in guarding this secret of its existence...
There is no way of destroying the River nor the Well of Woldsblood... we can not turn back time here on the plains... they are what they are and we don't know exactly how much more the Plains will change due to the Woldsblood. Changes come more rapidly now and we try to keep one step ahead of them. That's why it is so important to us to learn of the Animals and the vegetation on the Plains..."
But then Araxo sighs...
"However you have spoken more truths... it shows that you are righteously chosen to be the ones...
The Woldsblood in the wrong hands would be devastating indeed...
Despite our efforts to maintain this great secret there are those who know about it. From the Portal in the place you now call OddHolme a new threat came... As said, the only place where the Woldsblood surfaces is beneath Rattledam. But this Druid has located a place where the River of Woldsblood flows very close to the surface and he has been digging for it creating a new opening towards it. To do this has taken many Manfri to work for him... To dig into the Wold and reach the Woldsblood...
The Druid however could not resist the power of the Woldsblood. It is not to be used by others than Gargul himself. He has gone mad and he has been the one to summon foul breed into the Plains...
We can not get our kin back... not without confronting the Druid... not without getting near the Woldsblood...
Now you know... We seek your help..."
Yanosh Thursday June 26th, 2008 2:59:20 PM
"Tell us master Manfri. Tell us where to find this druid so we may destroy him and save the 'Plains and the Wold." Yanosh's eyes flash with both anger, that someone would even try and desecrate what is so sacred to Gargul, and excitment at the thought of having a direction. His large nose flares, knuckles crack as his fist clench. "What is the name of this feind?"
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Thursday June 26th, 2008 6:09:31 PM
Tishe' nods to herself. "The Grasses must stop the Woldsblood from surfacing, a kind of anchor. Druidwood repels the 'grasses, which has its benefits, but also dangerous as it brings the 'blood closer to the surface. That must be why Flor and Faun's grove died. And it is called 'druidwood'.... this Druid may have been actively looking for control for a lot longer than we now believe..."
She looks around at Araxo to see if she has a true dye. And then she smiles disarmingly "As protectors of the land that is secreting the Woldsblood, our name of Bloodpack is closer than any of us realized!"
Olaf Thursday June 26th, 2008 8:12:26 PM
"Hrm..." intones Olaf. "A druid, up to no good, is it? Seems like a pretty small thing for all the trouble it's causin'. But, I guess if the woldblood's involved, even little things 'come important," declares the young, and slightly dirty, blond man. Turning to Gilan and Trellus, he asks, "We have a whole lotta magic between us all. You wants us to try and scry on this? Or should we be concerned 'bout scryin' ourselves? I mighten be able ta do somethin' 'bout that."
Gilan Thursday June 26th, 2008 9:33:17 PM
Gilan once again cocks his head to the side and listens to the Manfri with dawning awareness of the situation. He does not say anything but he will help them out without hesitation. These people have taken them in more than once and they have fought by their side. He glances to Trellus and then nods his head, letting his friend know that he is for it...but that it is his decision as leader of the group.
There is also the hint of anger to his eyes that a fellow druid would do such a thing, but he sighs as he knows that there are many different kinds of people...some good and some bad. He glances to the rest to see how they might be feeling and thinking about all this.
His two copper pieces is soon known to the idea of scrying. "It very well could be useful...but it could also tip a hand." Glancing to the Manfri he tilts his head to the side again. "I would suspect that the Manfri have many magics to not only hide but protect this home...I doubt that scrying on us would do them much good." He does not claim to know all about the Manfri, in fact he knows as little as all the rest...but they seem to be in tune with nature and magic as well.
Trellus Thursday June 26th, 2008 9:37:28 PM
Trellus mouth drops open a full minute. "Wait a minute. This insane druid dude showed up by coming through that portal Murdock and Aryeon are sittin' on? Light. We wanna make Oddholme our place, not a sunbaked entry point."
The blond man glances at Olaf when the man asks about scrying. "Maybe," he admits, before looking over at Araxo. "You wouldn't happen to know where Mr Sunbaked Druid Dude is right now, would you?"
Back to Olaf. "I been worried about dudes scrying us for a while, actually." He grins. "Only I'm worried about some different dudes." He nods in the general direction of Rattledam to indicate who he means.
Tishe's revelation that "Bloodpack" just took on an entire new meaning elicits a grin. "That is shady," he agrees.
Back to Araxo. "We'll help, of course. Them not-Rapke are bad enough, but when Gry says something is dangerous" - he gives his half-orc packmate a wink - "that's when you know you got a problem."
Flea (AC 21, 50/62 HP) Thursday June 26th, 2008 10:18:58 PM
"...and the Manfri." Flea adds to Trellus' question. "Where is the druid holding them?"
Flea remembers how the monster-ant things called Ogilans had enslaved dwarves to do their bidding, and the thought that little Manfri dudes were being held captive is abhorent to her. She wonders at how bad they must feel trapped underground, instead of free on the plains, and how dangerous it must be for them to have to work in such proximity to thre magical yet overpowering substance that is Woldsblood.
"We leave the day after tomorrow!..." [ADM StevenVdB] Friday June 27th, 2008 2:46:56 AM
As Araxo finishes and clearly asked the Bloodpack to help them Yanosh immediately agrees and is eager to take care of business.
"His name?" Araxo asks "We don't know his name but we speak of him as Evil Horvis... "
Tishe' seems to be understanding now more of what happens to the plains. How Woldsblood must be stopped from surfacing and how most likely the grasses act as a kind of anchor... She also understands that the name of Bloodpack can't be just a coincidence... Trellus too grins at the mystic mentioning this coincidence... he grins and says: "That's shady..."
Thinking a druid being up to no good is but a small thing Olaf wonders if the magic weavers could try and scry on this.... Gilan thinks it could be useful but is also worried that it could back fire on the Bloodpack and the Manfri. Their taudo has been kept a secret for such a long time... But never the less the Druid is concerned about a fellow druid trying to abuse the power of the Woldsblood... would he, Gilan, be also drawn to the Woldsblood?
Trellus is the only one who suddenly seems to realizes that this Evil Horvis dude came from the portal in Oddholme!! And Murdock and Ayreon are sitting on that portal! He also comments on the scrying idea of Olaf... A good idea, but not one without risks.
Feeling pity for the abducted manfri, Flea immediately asks where they are held captive.
Vayine ponders the thought that his brother might be in danger in Oddholme... what if more foul things come through the portals? Grymash too remains silent. But then again he never says much... he'll be ready when his axe is most needed...
As Trellus decides the Bloodpack will help the Manfri in confronting the Druid and helping to save the abducted Manfri, Araxo again smiles.
"The Wind told me that the ones who walk with the Blood would help us... Long have we waited for this day to come. Now as it is finally here great joy is warming our hearts..."
"Yes we know where he is but we dare not get too close to him nor the excavations. Not without a strong ally like you... the Woldsblood draws you to that place and makes you insane... only the strong mind can withstand that power.
Evil Horvis is two days walk north of here... there's a large hole dug in the ground... our kin never leaves the place. There is but one ramp leading down into the bowl that is used to move dirt as they dig deeper. If you could distract Evil Horvis we could free our kin.
It would be best to rest one more day and prepare before we go to face the Druid...."
Araxo then claps his hands and a handful of Manfri pop out of several doors surrounding the central room. He speaks to them is their low guttural voice and as he finishes the Manfri all chant out the same words... incomprehensible though...
"They are ready."
A young female Manfri -- she's cute even for a Manfri -- comes forward.
"Come. Let her take you to your quarters. Rest tomorrow and prepare.
We leave the day after tomorrow!"
Yanosh Friday June 27th, 2008 2:17:01 PM
"The portal we came through? This is not a good thing. Gargul help us." Yanosh states softly as they are lead away.
Once in the room he will be staying Yanosh strips his armour off and asks for something to wash with. Once he has bathed Yanosh meditates and prays to Gargul. Preparing spells that he thinks will be most useful when the time comes.
Once his prayers are over Yanosh works on his armour and weapons readying them for the battle that is sure to be coming.
Grymash Friday June 27th, 2008 2:32:41 PM "Wait ..." interrupts Grymash. "Why do da river of blood decide ta come heres to da Sargrass? Da blood haves will, da blood haves purpose! But why? Da blood carries da souls to da land of rest ... is da land, da Sargrass dying? Do da lands of rest be taken da Sargrass for it own? Da grass be da land resistin' death, but dyin' jus da same! Are we, da Blood, walkin against da natural flow? Against Lord Gargul's will?"
Grymash buries his face in his hands has his head begins to throb from that thought. "Gry need ta pray ... Gry no understand dis? There be more ta dis. Da druid need ta die, yes, da piggie dabby in things no meant for. But da blood comes to da Sargrass wit uh purpose. Gry need ta know whys!"
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Friday June 27th, 2008 6:22:42 PM
Tishe' certainly accepts the 'request' to rest and refresh, she has a lot of thinking to do and needs to allow the new information time to catch up to her other mental facilities. "spell selection is going to need some brain power, too", she muses.
Led off to a sleeping chamber, the young woman is more than happy to drift off into an easy sleep.
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) Friday June 27th, 2008 7:21:02 PM
Vayine puts aside his personal feelings for the time being. knowing that His brother, and Murdock have gemstones in there chest. if they needed help they should be able to contact the pack.....or at least he hopes. the thoughts of the up coming battle soon formulate in his mind. his decades of training in the arts of war and tactics churning ideas that will benefit the pack in a battle.
Gilan Friday June 27th, 2008 9:19:51 PM
Feeling a little dazed from all that they have been told today, he stands slowly. As he follows along with the female Manfri he cannot help but wonder about the friends that they had left behind at the dome. Has he left them behind to end up suffering a fate that could have otherwise been avoided?
Sleep does not find him easily this night and he lays awake for some time before he is able to roll over and sleep. Then his dreams are filled with things that are better left untold, till finally a comforting hand seems to close around it all. He is left with what smells like earth around him and the feeling of warmth. The morning should find him brighter eyed than he might have been.
Trellus d20+7=15 ; Saturday June 28th, 2008 11:58:22 AM distract Evil Horvis. "Riiiight," Trellus drawls. "Well, I'm pretty sure we can provide a distraction."
Rising at the entrance of the Manfri girl, the erstwhile pack leader moves in next to Gilan. The cleric has a couple of issues that need worked out, and the first is his longtime druid friend. Given Gilan's performance under the caverns, Trellus is thinking the days of him throwing a flamestrike and summoning elementals from the back are over. "Dude," he asks quietly, and with genuine concern, "you gave up the healing wand. Did you give up spellcasting too?"
After speaking with Gilan, Trellus moves on to the next problem - Woldsblood. Grymash is totally warped about the stuff, and the blond man trusts his friend's instincts. The half-orc has a sixth sense about this stuff, but his inability to get dudes to understand what he's thinking gets in the way a lot.
Trellus seeks out Yanosh. "You're a priest of Gargul, like Gry," he notes. "What do you know about Woldsblood having its own will?"
In his quarters, Domi's cleric thinks on the subject himself, trying to remember anything he can about Woldsblood. [Knowledge Religion - 15]
Olaf Sunday June 29th, 2008 7:25:49 AM
Content to let those who already know the plains judge the merits of the Manfri's plans, Olaf follows his guide to their sleeping quarters. He spends long hours pondering this new place, and trying to find a connection to the Powers of ice and snow that he once knew. Frustrated by failure again, he eventually sleeps.
Gilan (illegal second post) Sunday June 29th, 2008 7:55:15 PM
Gilan stops to listen to the concerns of Trellus and then shakes his head. "I have only given up some of my spell casting...I still have the use of some, though limited in scope now." As he figures how to better explain it he shrugs his shoulders to settle his armor...or maybe to scratch an itch. "I still have the ability to enhance others and myself with strength and armor...I can also divine for things...but I will no longer be calling upon healing or natures fire." He watches as Trellus walks away and smiles. It was good to see his friend and leader thinking of not only him but the welfare of the group as well.
This will make his sleep that much easier.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday June 30th, 2008 12:44:37 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of June 23 - June 30
Weekly Summary : A time for questions... Inside the Manfri Taudo the Bloodpack is welcomed once again by Araxo. The old Manfri Shaman Gilan, Gry and Trellus met last time they were here. Many questions burn upon the soul of our friends and Araxo tries to answer them best... As Araxo explains to them the Sargrass Plains are under the influence of Woldsblood... Woldsblood that runs beneath the Plains and alter its vegetation and animal life.
Baffeling as this may be Araxo continues by informing the Bloodpack that an Evil Druid... Evil Horvis... Came through the very same portal Yanosh and Olaf came...the very same portal Murdoch and Ayreon are sitting upon in Oddholme... And that this guy it trying to use the power of the Woldsblood. He must be stopped...
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
ADM StevenVdB : Overall Posting Record Game 10 Monday June 30th, 2008 1:07:35 AM
Friends, I now have a year of posting data... so perhaps its good to see how well you performed...
At the moment the game runs at an average of 81,2% or we need an average of 4,06 posts per week. If the game runs at 80% of its designed speed your characters only evolve at 80% of their normal rate.
Trellus, Tishe', Grymash and Flea have all been active 52 weeks. However Tishe' is the only one to actually make an average of 4 posts per week! My compliments also to Vayine who lacks 5 weeks to have posted all year but he has 4,17 posts per week on average. However Yanosh has the highest post rate at 4,5 per week! But he has been with us for slightly less than half a year. Keep up the good work and the great posts my friends!
For those who have a posting average of less than 3,5 please try to be more active or let your DM or ADM know what's troubeling you in this game. Perhaps you aren't satisfied with the way this are handled? Let us know!! We're here to make it a fun game for everyone!!
Posting Report for Game 10 for 2007
Name - # posts - # weeks participated - #posts per week - %
Game Speed = 81.2% Posts Required = 4.06 per week Overal Posting percentage = 80.47%
- player reliability can not exceed 100% - the DM sets the pace - if a player makes 5 posts and a DM only 4 the game moves at 80% but the player is 100% reliable (not 120%) - if the DM makes 5 posts and the player only 4 the game moves at 100% but the player is only 80% reliable - Since the Game Speed is only 76,4% players can only be asked to make (5*0,76)=3,83 posts per week
A day of resting... [ADM StevenVdB] Monday June 30th, 2008 1:38:19 AM
Feeling a little dazed for all they have learned today the Bloodpack prepares for a well deserved rest. They all have their personal thoughts though... Yanosh is worried more about the portals they came through rather than the fact they are about to face some evil druid... he says his prayers to Gargul and readies his armour and weapons for the battle that is sure to be coming.
Though he has been fairly quiet in the Taudi the mentioning of Woldsblood strikes Gry as lightning! Why is Gargul's river coming here to the Sargrass? Is the Sargrass dying? Do the Lands of Rest claim the Sargrass for its own? Quite interesting thoughts though! Burying his face in his hands his head begins to throb from these thoughts and he realizes he needs to pray... but the Druid will die never the less...
The Leader of the Bloodpack catches a few words with his friends before heading of to sleep. He has been worried for Gilan and asks about the changes the druid has gone through. How much did he give up to be what he is now?!? Gilan reassures Trellus that there's plenty of powers to play with. He had to give up healing and natures fire though...
Trellus also talks to the troubled Half-Orc... He has a sixth sense about stuff that involve Gargul and Woldsblood... and when Grymash is hexed about something Trellus accepts the Half-Orcs judgements. Knowing Yanosh is also a Cleric of Gargul, Trellus hopes he'll be able to answer some of the riddles. However the dwarf has already gone to bed.
Gilan also wonders about his friends he left in Oddholme... when he found out about the portal and the fact that whomever came through is still out here on the plains he hurried to find the Bloodpack in Rattledam... he never actually thought Murdock and Ayreon could be in danger... sleep doesn't come easy to him until finally a comforting hand closes around him...
Olaf spends hours pondering this new place and tries to find a connection to the powers of ice and snow and the powers that control the Plains... frustrated by his failure he eventually fall a sleep...
Tishe' accepts the rest as she has lots of thinking to do. Vayine puts aside his fear for his brother and Murdock for he knows they both have a gemstone incrusted in their chest and in trouble they would be able to contact the pack... at least he hopes so...
The next morning you a gentle knocking on your doors awake you. The nice looking Manfri lass invites you all to having breakfast. Again Araxo is waiting for you as usually he is smiling... it makes you wonder if Manfri ever show sorrow...
There's an abundance of fine things to eat nicely arranged on grass plates or bowls.
"Today you are free to go where you want in our home or outside. Be careful though if you go out to not going too far. Please join me for dinner again this evening so we can discuss our plans for going after Evil Horvis..."
Not waiting for you to say anything, Araxo stands, bows and leaves the central room. You won't see him again till this evening.
Please say everything you would like to do during this day.
Olaf Monday June 30th, 2008 10:22:38 AM
Olaf starts to talk with the Manfri, trying to learn about the creatures of the plains. His trapper and furrier background shows, as he learns what hides are useful, which bones are strongest, and what natural dangers of the plains to avoid when traversing them. After a full day of such learning, he comes to realize that many months of study will be necessary before he would be ready to survive on his own out here. Dismayed, he returns to hear the dinner plans.
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Monday June 30th, 2008 11:15:36 AM
"I wonder why they call him 'evil' Horvis? Could there be any information we could know about the druid? What powers he has shown, what is his race, gender, minions? Does he use lots of plant allies? or animal allies? or Fire or Lightning spells? It could really determine what kind of spells we prepare to confront him."
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Yanosh Monday June 30th, 2008 3:15:59 PM
Waking to talk with Trellus Yanosh ponders what he is asked. "Once I went with the Ice Pack to plead for the life of Garrett. While we were there one of our own tried to touch a river of Woldsblood. The Woldsblood tried to suck his very life from him. To control it, if one can. He would have to be very skilled and powerful." Looking Trellus in the eyes, "Woldsblood is not to be taken lightly. I have been a follower of Gargul since our meeting to get back Garrett. Gargul himself accepted me as an Eye. The Woldsblood flows through the Shadowlands directly to Gargul. Only he can touch it with out any affect. Touching it or controling it, is to touch the very essence of life itsself. It is very powerful and must not be used for evil. It may have Wold wide consequences."
In the morning Yanosh looks for Flea. He is worried about the Gnome. When he finds her he tells her of his meeting with the God of life and death.(See Ice Vien Archives-The Value of a Life (ACDM Cayzle) Thursday September 13th, 2007) Sitting beside Flea Yanosh feels a tug at his heart. 'This is the one Bohdi loves so.' He cant help but think. Softly he speaks to her, "Once when I met Gargul we were taught this lesson. Gargul told us 'I seek respect over worship, and understanding over awe. For death is not evil, nor birth good. These are the inevitable transitions, and none can avoid them, except for the soulless, who I disdain. And since death, like birth, comes to all, why should any one avoid it, even a great hero? That is my question for you'." Yanosh takes her hand softlytenderly in his large callused Dwarven one. "So you see Flea Even gargul will not let you live forever. That would be against even himself and that will never happen. So go to Gargul with understanding and pray that you may have learned what the lesson was that he wanted you to learn."
Yanosh spend the day trying to learn everything he can about Woldsblood.
Trellus Monday June 30th, 2008 3:54:17 PM
Unable to recall anything about Woldsblood, Trellus finally drifts off to sleep.
That morning, the cleric takes Divination as one of his spells, and then immediately sets about preparing to cast the spell. As it takes effect, he asks of Domi "How shall we prepare to combat Evil Horvis in his lair?"
Leaving his quarters, the blond human runs into Yanosh, who fills him in a bit on Woldsblood. He nods his understanding of the dwarf's warning, rubbing the back of his own head as he thinks on the words. "So, those whose willpower is not as strong would be most likely to be affected first?" he asks.
Gilan Monday June 30th, 2008 9:51:18 PM
As usual, Gilan is up early and going about his morning duties. When he is invited to breakfast he takes the time to gather up a little food for himself, as he listens to Araxo. When he moves to leave the druid moves along as well and will find his way to the outside of the Taundo.
Moving off to the side he goes about his morning prayers, though this morning they are more to Father than to Mother...though he does honor Mother as well. His song fills the quiet as he sits on the great rock that looks down over the sandy area they had first fought in. After his quick prayers he goes about eating a light meal and just enjoying the gentle breeze and sun.
If noone comes to get him before then, he will spend the rest of the day outside seated upon the great rock and communing with nature in his own way. He does not go about any divinations as he has no concrete stuff to use to seek out this evil druid or the Woldsblood.
Grymash Monday June 30th, 2008 10:08:49 PM
Grymash spends the morning in prayer. Around mid-day, he leaves the confines of the manfri's cave to stand upon on the rocks in the heat of the sun. With sweat pouring off him, he trains with his double ax, striking at the air. Countless invisible foes are slain over the next few hours. Near exhaustion, Grymash releases his rage to stay on his feet. Swirls of sand and grit cling to his sweat-soaked body as he struggles in his fight. Then finally he collapses, first taking a knee, then finally his whole body giving in to exhaustion and gravity. He lays there, his chest heaving to take in every breath of air. His mind is empty. For the moment, no rage, no anger, no memory of himself, Rattledam or the Woldsblood. In moments of struggle, Grymash feels the most alive. The exercise is not just a way to remain strong and fit. It's a ritual of dying and being born anew. In this most exquisite moment of rebirth, Grymash hopes to hear the voice of Gargul himself.
When he is able, Grymash will get up, gather his double ax and return to the caves of the manfri. Hopefully he will have something to ponder. If not, then he will have a good meal and a deep and restful nights sleep.
Flea Tuesday July 1st, 2008 12:41:17 AM
Flea spends the morning performing a careful inventory of her stuff before packing it all back into her HHHaversack. In the afternoon she has a heart to heart with Yanosh. The gnome nods when the dwarf explains his faith.
Flea trembles a little, then explains to the dwarf that she is afraid to die. Though she has chosen to travel the Sargrass with the Bloodpack, and defend the land and its inhabitants, and their way of life, she hasn't accepted the fact that she could get killed. Studying her fingers, and then picking at a ragged nail in order to avoid eye contact with her friend, the gnome muses, "maybe Gargul can read in my heart that I haven't accepted that I might really die. Maybe he knows that I believe my friends wouldn't abandon me, and that they would come and fetch me out of the Shadowlands?"
The little tag of skin comes off, leaving a small ooze of blood. "I'm afraid of him, Yanosh!" she admits. "I don't think I understand yet. I don't think I've learned the lesson he wants me to learn. I'm not pious you know."
Escaping Death had always seemed like a trick. A sleight of hand. An extraordinary feat of evasion to the rogue. Now, with the dead Dragon Tear embedded in her chest, there was no escaping the fact that the grey-eyed god of life and death had marked her. But for what?
We leave at dawn... [ADM StevenVdB] d100=21 Tuesday July 1st, 2008 1:28:11 AM
Now our friends have a feint idea of what they will be up against the next day each of them takes the preparations they deem necessary. Woldsblood comes to mind a lot and they all seek to find out more of this strange substance... a substance of life and death... the very essence of life and death in the Wold...
Yanosh speaks to Trellus about what he knows about the substance called Woldsblood. The Cleric of Gargul has seen it before and knows the force it holds... he knows how it draws your soul trying to lure you towards the Lands of Rest. This great stress on your soul almost became too much for one of his friends who tried to touch the Woldsblood! The Dwarven Cleric' knowledge is thorough and certainly illuminates Trellus some more about the dangers that lie up ahead... he now understands that the weak of mind will be affected first indeed...
"Then how shall we prepare to combat Evil Horvis in his lair" Trellus wonders as he ponders the spells he might use...
Slowly the Cleric drifts of as the Divination spell begins to work (you have 80% chance of receiving correct information. I rolled 21 which is just enough :-) ) Then as in a dream Trellus hears a voice inside his head...
"Protect the minds of the weak where Blood is freed...
No longer human, larger than he used to be he awaits you ..."
The next morning Yanosh spends some time with Flea as he speaks to her about his meeting with Gargul. How it affected his whole self. He tries to explain to her the true meaning of life and death. That death isn't evil and birth isn't good... Since death, like birth, comes to all why would Flea try to avoid it? Flea however trembles at Yanosh's words. Though suddenly her fingers appear to be most interesting she tells Yanosh how she is afraid of dying. How she had always felt that escaping death is but a simple trick... a sleight of hand... how she is afraid of the Lord Gargul, the Grey-eyed God of Life and Death... he has already marked her but for what purpose?!? What is she to learn?
"Pray that you have learned what the lesson was he wanted you to learn" Yanosh says. Both feel connected now more than ever. The thought of securing the very substance of Life and Death... the thought of being so close to something that is meant to bring balance between the Lands of Rest and the Lands of the Living...
Olaf spends his day trying to learn how the Manfri live out here on the Plains and tries to adapt some of their tricks. Though useless it seems, he somehow feels the Plains are becoming a more familiar place. There are grasses he would recognize... he understands the danger of water being spilled on the Plains... little things that could save his and his friends' lives out there on the Plains.
Being up early Gilan goes about his morning duties. Leaving the Manfri Taudo he goes outside for his morning prayers. Not having any clue on how to fight this druid he prays to both Father and Mother for guidance.
Grymash too goes outside. Last evening he went to bed with raging thoughts about Woldsblood, Lord Gargul, the question if the Plains are dying and the Woldsblood is here to drag the Plains as a whole towards the Sadow Lands... today the Half-Orc has chosen to discipline himself with hard training. Dragging his body towards the maximum and beyond until ultimately he falls to the ground completely exhausted. Hoping Lord Gargul will speak to him in this state of delirium the Half-Orc waits and waits till evening comes but Gargul leaves his questions unanswered...
Wondering why the Manfri call their nemesis 'Evil' Horvis, Tishe' questions Araxo at the dinner table of the powers he has shown or perhaps even the spells he uses...
"Woldsblood has the ability to change things... the Plains have changed but it can also change men... when we first met Horvis he was a plain human... a druid we could tell... intrigued to learn more about the Plains. We told him little much to his dismay. But it was obvious he already knew Woldsblood flows beneath the Plains... where he learned this we don't know and we can only hope no one else will come. Angered because we were unwilling to help him locating it, he left. It wasn't till much later we heard from him again... we foundthat he had located a rivulet of Woldsblood very close to the surface and that he wanted to open up the stream... Woldsblood has a terrible effect on men who are not supposed to use it! Only a Fixer can resist its lure... by the time we came to him he was no longer human... he had taken on physical aspects of an Ogre... but it was clear that the changes weren't complete yet.
As we were there we felt the power of the Woldblood being close to the surface. Yet already it had altered Horvis's abilities... Abusing the Power of Woldsblood is a dreadful thing and since then we refer to him as 'Evil' Horvis for we don't think he was evil when we first met him... intrigued by the Woldsblood maybe... eager to finding it for sure... but not evil yet..."
Araxo then quietly finishes his meal and once he's done he observes you all.
"Tomorrow, if the winds are with us, we will be reunited with our kin and by nightfall we'll be celebrating... Sleep peacefully. We leave at dawn..."
Please complete Spell Lists or any preparations you'd like to make.
Trellus Tuesday July 1st, 2008 8:47:08 AM
OOC - Steven, Trellus asked that question as part of a Divination spell. What was the answer?
[Steven] Right! Forgot to answer it. I have changed the ADM post above to answer the question.
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Tuesday July 1st, 2008 12:03:18 PM
In her preparations, Tishe' spends time communing with Mother Wold, feeling the 'grass, the sun, the ground. She listens for the twitter of a blind swallow, the sclorch of a prarie piggie through the 'grasses. "Mother, protector of your children, help me to protect this pack, who seeks to maintain the natural order against one of our fellows who know the secrets of your paths."
Inside the tuado, Tishe' carefully pours a measure of water into a basin and sets about to attempt to see and hear the Evil Horvis' plans with Clairvoyance and Clairaudience.
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Flea Tuesday July 1st, 2008 12:54:30 PM
Not particularly wise, Flea none the less isn't stupid. She spends some time musing over the words of her wise friend, and has an epiphany.
If I can help secure the Woldsblood that courses under the Sargrass and ensure it is safe to persue its natural course...safe from abuse by those who would use its power for corrupt purposes...maybe it would compensate for my past failings? Maybe the god of life and death would then know that I have learned the lesson that all things, including life and death, have their natural course!
The rogue is as commited as ever to the Bloodpacks new mission.
ADM SteveVdB Highlight to display spoiler: {-I'm in the game. So glad the story line is coming back to the Sargrass Plains, and revisiting some Bloodpack history. There seem to be some good hooks for the newer players also.-Carla}
Trellus Tuesday July 1st, 2008 2:14:27 PM
Trellus speaks up. "I prayed to Domi and asked what we might encounter. He said to 'Protect the minds of the weak where Blood is freed.'" The cleric looks around. "Which sounds a lot like what Gry and Yanosh have been saying. Those of us who have trouble with attacks on the mind need to be totally careful, and stay as far away from that sunbaked stuff as possible."
Turning to the manfri, he asks, "Do you have anything that might help us resist the Woldsblood's pull?"
Back to the group. "Domi also said, 'No longer human, larger than he used to be he awaits you'. Which sounds like he's knows we're coming, he's really big, and spells that effect people won't work."
------ Spells Prepared for tomorrow: Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Yanosh Tuesday July 1st, 2008 4:04:35 PM
Still uncomfortable in the roll of 'Wise Cleric' Yanosh cant help but enjoy the feeling of being useful to the Pack.
At dinner that night, "We cannot touch the Woldsblood for it can harm us. I am sure that he will try to use it against us. Gry may be most vulnerable but we need him up close. We must protect each other closely tomorrow. For the sake of the Sargrass depends on it."
Highlight to display spoiler: {Spells Prepared Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead
Grymash Tuesday July 1st, 2008 8:28:02 PM
Oh great ... Grymash thinks. His mind is particularly weak, even though its surrounded by a thick, stone-hard shell. He realizes he will need to prepare certain types of magiks for himself and his clan. Magik that protects the mind from suggestion and possession. He knows what he needs to do. Then again, he takes offense to his own thoughts of himself. His mind is weak ... yes, but his will is strong. Even more so when he lets loose his fury. This druid is dead meat!
Gilan [extended longstrider] Tuesday July 1st, 2008 10:29:25 PM
Gilan listens to the group as they talk over the things that have been discovered. He also listens to Araxo and nods his head as he listens to the wise Manfri. "I think that I might be able to help out a little but I am not sure how well my spells will effect the coming battle." He knows that his true power has turned from the use of spells to combat. He is ok with that and will suppor the group as best he can.
When it is time to slip back into the room that he was sleeping in earlier today, he returns. His sleep this night is not disturbed and he feels that he is now closer to peace with himself. Things are starting to feel right once again.
The next moring he will be up just as early and make his way outside before he eats, his morning prayers to Father and Mother cannot be disturbed...they must also be done before he fills his belly with food.
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2), owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2), meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Towards Evil Horvis... towards their doom? ... [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 6:48:46 AM
Having heard a voice in his head revealing bits and pieces of what awaits them Trellus relates everything to his friends. Resisting the Woldsblood's pull appears to be a key element and the weak-minded ought to be protected most. Trellus thinks Grymash is most in need of such protection.
Uneasy in the role of the "Wise Cleric" Yanosh enjoys the feeling of being useful to the Pack. Like Trellus he feels they should do whatever is in their capabilities to protect the weakminded...
The discussion of the "weakminded" makes Grymash realize he is a powerful warrior but everyone seems to think he won't be able to protect himself. His mind might be weak, but his will is strong! He'll show both Evil Horvis and his friends that he will be capable of resisting the Woldsblood pull. That druid is dead meat!!
Trellus asks Araxo if the Manfri have anything to help them resisting the pull of the Woldsblood. Araxo claps his hands, speaks a few incomprehensible words and seconds later there are 4 small flasks in front of him...
"These should increase your will to resist the pull of the Woldsblood." and Araxo hands Trellus the 4 flasks containing a greenish thick liquid...
(the potions function as a Potion of Owl's Wisdom and grants +4 to Wisdom which will also affect your will save)
Inspired by Trellus' successful Divination Tishe' is eager to finding out what the Druid is up to. She pours a measure of water into a basin and prepares to cast a spell that will enable her to see and hear our Evil friend Horvis...
"It would be a waste of a good spell Lady Tishe'..." Araxo says once he has given the potions to Trellus. "Evil Horvis' excavations are two days walking from here... your powers won't reach that far. Better keep that spell until we are closer to the excavations."
(ooc : the clairvoyance spell works at a range of 400ft +40ft/lvl which would be 800ft for Tishe' -- this isn't nearly enough to attempt to see Horvis who is at two days walking from you which would be approximately 48 miles at 30ft base speed... )
After having talked to Yanosh, Flea has an epiphany... if she helps in securing the Woldsblood from being abused wouldn't that please the God of Life and Death? Wouldn't he be thankful if Flea ensures the fragile balance between Life and Death isn't tampered with? More than ever Flea is committed to this new mission!
Gilan wonders how his new self will be able to protect his friends other than through combat Never the less he'll be ready.
Olaf and Vayine train and prepare on their own. They too will be ready tomorrow...
(ooc Anything wrong guys? You haven't posts this week)
That evening the Bloodpack falls in a deep and comforting sleep.
The next morning as they are woken, the taudo resembles a busy bee-hive... Manfri running on and off are preparing breakfast and the group that will accompany the Bloodpack to facing Evil Horvis.
Ensuring you all have plenty of time to meditate, prepare your gear, eat and any other preparations you need to do, Araxo comes to find you as the sun comes peeking at the horizon...
"We must go. Here's a drawing of where we are going. "
Araxo hands you a drawing of a huge circular hole in the Sargrass. Grasses around it stop at the edge of the hole. There's one ramp leading into the bowl at the northern side of the bowl. The depth of the bowl appears to be 30ft at least... There appear to be no other interesting details about the surroundings.
Somewhat later you are all standing outside the Manfri Taudo.
Araxo and 10 more Manfri are standing beside you.
"We can talk along the way of how to proceed once we are near the excavations. However we must go now. We'll be arriving there tomorrow late in the afternoon."
(ooc I made a mistake in my previous ADM post. Araxo said : "Tomorrow, if the winds are with us, we will be reunited with our kin and by nightfall we'll be celebrating" This of course is impossible since Evil Horvis is two days walking from the Taudo... my apologies)
The day proceeds well. The blistering heat of the Plains if under control with various Endure Element spells and more bearable than ever in the company of the Manfri.
There's plenty of time to talk, prepare or do whatever you like. Tomorrow in the afternoon you'll get close to Evil Horvis' excavations.
Olaf Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 7:00:07 AM
In the prior evening, Olaf was able to replace his cast spells, but only with domain spells. Joining with the rest of the 'pack, he relates to his companions his prior experience with Woldblood. "As Yanosh was sayin', we once went to Gargul's realm. There, the Woldsblood flows like a rivers in a swamp, aboundin' in a frighten' manner. I got somethin' into my head to see 'bout capturin' some fer study. Bein' awful careful, I tried to get some on in a container. But much to my chagrin, even gettin' near the stuff was 'nuff to drive me senseless fer a while. Too bad we don't have some barriers ta use against the stuff---I'm thinkin' that fallin' in would be a death sentence to any who'd be so unlucky." With that, he snorts and stomps for a moment, then brays a laugh. "Hah. Unlucky...that'd be me, I suppose."
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 11:17:01 AM
Tishe' reviews what she knows of her only scrying spell, and has to agree with Araxo with a sheepish grin. "How could I have forgotten that!" (ooc: that's what happens when I post without access to my PHB! :-))
Using the Wand of Endure Elements, Tishe' is able to keep the worst of the heat off her companions as they march through the 'Grasses. She still feels a little unprepared without a companion pacing beside her, but she knows that any she would be able to attract would not be able to withstand any sort of combat.
"I can't see Evil Horvis using fire-based spells because of the 'grasses", she says, "but the druid could easily ensure electrical attacks are devestating. I've prepared three resisting energy spells for who might most need them, perhaps myself, Olaf, and Flea?"
"I could also try to strike Evil Horvis first with a Dimensional Anchor spell that would not allow him to escape by magic once we get to him. It would be terrible if we defeated him only to have him escape."
Effects Endure Elements (24 hours)
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Yanosh Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 2:14:05 PM
When Yanosh exsits the Taudo the het of the Sargrass is already over bearing to him. Praying quietly to Gargul for protection from the elements Yanosh starts to feel better. Looking the large half-orc over Yanosh wonders if he has made a misstake in his judgement of his fellow Eye Of Gargul. One must have strong will power to be a Cleric. Maybe he is wronge about him. Yanosh falls into place in the group when they start off. Sheild is kept on his left arm and his War Axe is resting comforting on his right shoulder well within reach.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Spells Prepared Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements*, Hide from Undead
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements) Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 6:46:32 PM
OOC: sorry, storm knocked out power. just got it restored today.
Vayine listens intently on the discussion of Woldsblood. trying to learn all he can of this new and powerful threat. he feels a little out of place, no knowing how to deal with an enemy that is not exactly mortal. he understands the power of the arm and sword but divine power, supernatural, and spirital power these he knows require a bit more finesse to deal with.
Flea Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 6:52:08 PM
Flea figures she is one of the 'pack who have succumbed to enemies with a powerful influence. With a great deal of embarasment she remembers how she obeyed the queen of the formian hive and broke one of the group's healing wands, and how at other times the cry of the rapke had made her quake with fear, rendering her unable of helping her friends.
Since then she had taken some steps to remedy her weakness, however she as yet remained untested.
(OOC: taking a level of bard has boosted Flea's Will Save mods from +1 to +4.) BTW, Thunderstorms here too, knocking out power from time to time.
Gilan [extended longstrider, endure elements] Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 8:30:45 PM
Gilan moves over to stand near Flea this day and lays a hand upon her shoulder. He has seen that expression on her face a number of times when she is in doubt. "Do not worry sister...I will assist you in any way possible." His smile he hopes is infectious and he nods his head, before moving his hand.
As they start out he fells a lot better about this venture, though he is still a little worried about how he will fit into the fight now. Shrugging he figures he will find out when the time comes. He will travel among his companions and talk to them in turn. He especially spends time with Olaf and Yanosh as he has not had time to speak to either of them much.
His interest seems to be on the land of Ice Vein and the differences. Anything they can tell him about it would be of interest. Though favoring the more animal side of nature...he is still a druid.
Grymash Wednesday July 2nd, 2008 8:33:26 PM
Upon the rebirth of the sun in the morning's sky, Grymash prays to Gargul for protection against the druid and the woldsblood. The half-orc gives thanks as his mind is filled with his Lord's enlightenment.
(Preparing all available slots with Protection from Evil and Owl's Wisdom.)
Battle preparations ... [ADM StevenVdB] Thursday July 3rd, 2008 1:01:43 AM
And so the Bloodpack heads out on a new mission... a mission to protect the Woldsblood. A mission to stop some druid -- who no longer is who he used to be -- from abusing the power of souls...
With Araxo and his Manfri guiding you and clearing a trail the journey is rather simple. Seeing how they travel through the grasses teaches you a few simple tricks to advance more easy.
Having told you at dinner the day before of his experiences with the Woldsblood, Olaf is pleased to be on the road again. However he states that should you be so unlucky to fall into a pool of Woldsblood you'd probably sign your doom...
"I doubt there's a pool or even a stream of Woldsblood" Araxo says, "Woldsblood is not meant to flow free outside of the Lands of Rest or the Shadow lands... if it's freed in the living wold it should vaporize within seconds! If it doesn't... there's something seriously wrong and only a catastrophe would await the Wold... I guess if something like that ever happens we'll witness the end of the Wold!! Pray this won't be happening... My guess is there's only a few drops exposed. But don't be mistaking... it only takes a few drops..."
Along the way the Bloodpack considers scheme's on how to overcome Evil Horvis. Tishe' wonders if he would use Fire based spells... after all with all the grasses around him a blazing fire would be devastating to the plains! But then again... it appears he's not really caring for the Plains... The mystic feels there's a good chance of him using electrical attacks rather than fire so she has prepared a few spells that can keep some of her friends safe from such attacks. She also thinks how to ensure that once Evil Horvis is overcome how to capture him... such bold thinking... already Tishe' wonders how to capture him before she has even seen him or his power...
As they trot through the grasses Yanosh wonders if he has been wrong about Grymash... after all it takes a strong mind to become a Cleric. Pondering this thought he falls into place with the group and keeps his shield and trusted axe close at hand.
Vayine has listened well the days before and feels a little out of place not knowing how to deal with an immortal enemy... but then another thought pops to his mind... call it a divine intervention from the puppet masters... who said he was no mortal enemy?!? He's no longer human
Upon Flea's face Gilan suddenly notices a few deep wrinkles above her eyebrows. The Druid/Shifter knows his friend is worried about something. Flea worries most about her not being able to withstand the pull of the Woldsblood. In earlier adventures she has already shown that her will isn't particularly strong... breaking a wand, trembeling in fear of the Rapke's scream... doesn't look to good for her... still bravely she walks on... Gilan however reassures her. He'll help her in any possible way.
However Gilan himself is also troubled... how will he fit into the fight? Shrugging he figures he'll find out when times comes...
With many hours of walking ahead of them Gilan tries to walk with Yanosh and Olaf and questions them about the Ice Vein and its differences. He hopes they can tell him a lot about it but of course is slightly more interested in the animal life... he can't help it... he's a druid...
With confidence Grymash walks with the group. His Lord Gargul has granted him the use of several protection spells and even one to boost his wisdom when time comes... oh yes... that druid is doomed for here comes Grymash the Strongminded! He'll show them all!
Trellus walks in silence as he too prepares for the upcoming battle and wonders what spells would be most suited for dealing with such a foe...
Once the day has passed the Manfri make camp and prepared something to eat. Setting guards you have a peaceful night. Your tummies are filled with thousands of butterflies or so it feels... not from being in love with anyone but from the anticipation of the oncoming fight.
The next morning again at the crack of dawn you continue your journey...
In the afternoon Araxo makes a sign to stop the group.
"We're now approximately 400ft away from the excavations. We're approaching it from the south. The ramp entrance is at the North. We estimate the bowl to be around 100ft diameter... How shall we proceed? We (he's pointing at his team of Manfri) will go around the bowl towards the northern entrance. Our kin is down there and we need to get them out. How will you proceed? We need your help on getting our kin and so you should concentrate on Evil Horvis... do you come with us to the Northern entrance? "
Araxo waits for you to answer the question what your battle plans are. Be as specific as possible. So far you know the Bowl is approx 100ft diameter, 30ft deep, there's one entrance ramp at the northern side and you're approaching the bowl from the south. The Grasses reach as far as the very edge of the bowl. As of tomorrow makes sure to put your AC and HP in the heading along with any spells you have on you. Also make any checks you deem intersting (spot, listen, hide, survival, swim (euh no not swim that wouldn't be intersting here - get the point?)
Olaf (hp 50/50, AC 26) d20+15=16 ; d20+4=16 ; d20+10=15 ; d20+4=5 ; Thursday July 3rd, 2008 10:38:58 AM
In response to Gilan's questioning, Olaf tells of the small animals he and his cousins used to trap out in the Vein. "White foxes, they're always difficult to catch. You have to give 'em a little bit o' rum in the trap to bring 'em out. Good stuff, too, not that gut-rippin' trash Petr used ta make."
As they get close to the bowl, the young blond man indicates to Trellus, "I'm ready ta scout if'n ya need it." He will hunker down into the grass (hide 16 (nat 1)) and then start quietly moving forward, keeping an eye out for enemies (spot 16), traps (search 15) and natural hazards (survival 5 (another nat 1)).
[ooc: how do you do that "spoiler" thing? Anyway, spells memorized 0 Level (5): Guidance, Mending, Resistance, Toros's Taur Try (x1), 1 empty slot 1 Level (4+1): Bless, [D]Disguise Self (x2), Magic Weapon, Obscuring Mist 2 Level (3+1): Darkness, Hold Person (DC:16), [D]Invisibility (x2) 3 Level (2+1): [D]Nondetection (x2), Stone Shape]
Trellus [sub SteveK] Thursday July 3rd, 2008 10:51:16 AM
Trellus scratches his short blonde hair and sighs. "OK gang, let's weave like this. We're gonna come in from the South while the Manfri come in from the North. We get Horvis' attention and kill him while the Manfri sneak out their bretheren."
"Tishe', cast that seeing spell so we have a good idea where everyone is. Once that is done, Manfri go to the North entrance and wait for the 'distraction'." He grins. The cleric of Domi is confident that the Bloodpack can get just about anyones attention.
The Bloodpack leader passes out the four potions, one to Vayine, Flea, Olaf, and Yanosh. "I want everyone thinking more clearly, so you four will use the potions once we get to the edge of the 'Grass. Gilan, Grymash, and Tishe' protect yourselves. Any Gry? Can you lay one of those Owl spells on me too?"
"From here we move out with Flea, Olaf, and Gilan in front, then Vayine and Yanosh on the left, Grymash and I on the right, and Tishe' behind."
"Scouts tell us when we get within 10 feet of the edge of the Grass. We pause a couple seconds (ie one round) for short-term spells, and then we move out and begin shooting. We weave with ranged attacks to start with, so don't get shuttlecocked. Be prepared to move out and into the 'bowl' if we need to, but I want to stay away from the Woldsblood if we can."
"Any questions?"
After Tishe's report, Trellus plans on casting: Resist Energy - Gilan Resist Energy - Flea Resist Energy - Olaf Spell Resistance - Trellus Magic Vestment - Trellus
And at the edge, Trellus will cast: Prayer
------ Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Tishe' (AC 16 HP 61/61) Thursday July 3rd, 2008 11:09:55 AM
"Weaving", responds Tishe', and she sits on a grassy pile while pulling out a small glass eye from her pants pocket. Incanting and staring at the object, Tishe' tries to place a magical sensor to see the excavation on the western side of the bowl. When it is in place, she dutifully reports everything she sees.
Tishe's plan is to cast preparation spells after the clairaudience is complete. She plans on ...
Resist Energy - Vayine Resist Energy - Yanosh Prot v Energy - Tishe' Mage Armor - Tishe' Owl Wisdom - Tishe' Antiplant Shell - Tishe' Shield - Tishe'
And once within 10 feet of the edge: Haste - Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements, Resist energy) Thursday July 3rd, 2008 4:42:24 PM
Vayine creeps up along with the rest of the pack. making sure to stay near the back as he is not as quite as the rest of the group. he readies his sword and shield preparing for a charge when needed.
Yanosh AC20 - HP 76/76 d20+2=18 ; d20+1=2 ; Thursday July 3rd, 2008 5:07:55 PM
Yanosh listens to the plan and takes the potion from Tellus. (yanosh steps to the middle of the gatering. Bareing his right forarm Yanosh shows the Eye of Gargul tattooed there. "Garguls blessings on us all." Yanosh activates the power in the tattoo.
Going to Trellus he asks "What is the potion?" (OoC its not mentioned in the post.)
Once again it comes to mind that Yanosh has forgoten to acquire a ranged weapon. This is something he must remedy soon. Yanosh readys a spell that will no dought be helpful. He will wait to cast it on the round appropriate.
Spot 18 listen 2 (untrained and a nat 1)
Trellus - 2nd Post [sub SteveK] Thursday July 3rd, 2008 5:30:47 PM
sorry, they are all Owl's Wisdom potions, duration 2 minutes (20 rounds) +4 Wisdom will give Will save bonus of +2.
Flea d20=19 ; d20=18 ; Thursday July 3rd, 2008 6:26:40 PM
Flea accepts all the help she can get. Clasping the potion in one fist, her hand brushes over her wands and comes to rest on her [i]Holy[/b] sword. She doesn't take the potion right away, but rather does as Trellus bids, and moves out with Gilan and Olaf.
Spot=19 (+mod 9)= 28 Listen=18 (+mod 11)= 29
(OOC: Very sorry! Lost connectivity at home (internet and telephones). Home renovations going on, and I think the lines have been disconnected or damaged. Library doesn't give me much time, and I can't access the Wold at work. I'll do what I can to stay active until things get sorted out at home.-Carla)
Gilan [HP: 118/118 - AC: 27] d20+6=24 ; d20+3=23 ; d20+6=12 ; Thursday July 3rd, 2008 9:29:18 PM
Gilan falls into his place in the line-up as Trellus has ordered. The butterflies that still inhabit his stomach have long since gone as he can only feel the sudden rush of adrenaline. Goosebumps rise on his body as he feels the euphoria of what he is about to be doing...the form that he is about to be taking. You might notice that he does not pull any type of missile weapon, but his club and shield have found their way to his hands.
Reaching the edge of the grass his pulse quickens and he slips his club into the same hand that holds his shield. With a look around he moves to lay a hand upon first Yanosh and then Grymash. Hand glowing he is happy to see the effects of his barkskin spell take hold on each and his eyes flare with hidden desire to shed this body. "You have the protection of the trees upon you." Going back to his spot in the battle line he takes his club back in hand and waits.
[listen 24, search 23(natural 20), spot 12]
Cast barkskin(Yanosh) [+4AC for 1000rounds] barkskin(Grymash) [+4AC for 1000rounds]
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2), meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Active Spells: extended longstrider, endure elements, resist energy
Evil Horvis awaits... and he knows you're out there... WHUAHAHAHAHAAA [ADM StevenVdB] d20+16=19 ; Friday July 4th, 2008 10:06:13 AM
As they draw closer to Evil Horvis' excavations Olaf tells more to Gilan about the wildlife on the Ice Vein. Then he suggests moving ahead of the group to scout... however his hiding skill don't appear to be all that strong...
Trellus builds a battle plan:
- Bloodpack move in from the south creating a distraction for Evil Horvis - Manfri move in from the North, race down the ramp and get out their kin. - Wait till the Bloodpack gives the 'signal'
Trellus is confident the Pack will be able to create a decent 'distraction' or 'signal' that will be rather obvious for the Manfri to go get their kin.
He also provides Vayine, Olaf, Flea and Yanosh with one of the potions he got from Araxo. All act like Owl's Wisdom potions (+4 Wis)
Line up: - Front row : Flea, Olaf, Gilan - Left : Vayine and Yanosh - Right : Grymash and Trellus - Rear : Tishe'
The scouts in the front row are asked to inform the group when they are within 10ft of the edge of the bowl. After all they don't want to stumble in the bowl!
Tishe feels confident about the plan. Now is the time for her to cast that Clairvoyance spell. Araxo and his Manfri too wait to hear Tishe's report.
Suddenly the Mystic feels as if she's floating through the air high above the plains. Her eagle eye notices a circular opening in the tall grass and travels towards it. From the sky (ooc : sorry I already made a southern view on the bowl rather than a view from the west like you asked ;-D ) she sees the following : Battle at Evil Horvis' Excavations
From the top view you can see a giant figure standing in front of some sort of altar atop a large dais. On the altar stands a brazier with in it a wildly bubbeling red substance... it fumes... boils... evaporates... it's weird! On the altar is a map and a few scrolls.
Tishe' also sees a type of bird flying down to the Altar...
Assuming the full grown dude is Evil Horvis Tishe' also notices he starts weaving his hands clearly casting spells.
Tishe' Spellcraft DC17 Highlight to display spoiler: {Casting Bear's Endurance, Casting Cat's Grace, Casting Bull's Strength... He knows you're out there! The Bird must have spotted you... There's no way of knowing if he'll cast more spells between you watching and attacking... It's unclear of he would have seen the Manfri... they are more attuned to the grasses and the bird didn't particularly look too well. Of course he couldn't miss some of ya... }
Scattered around the bowl you see crates, picks, shovels, a few benches, two tents most likely for the Manfri to sleep in, a cage (there appears to be one Manfri inside playing dead ... or perhaps dead), two sit at a table, two around a little fire place. On the left you see a fireplace with firewood. There are also several chains and ropes scattered around...
The bowl is 30ft deep (can't give a good depth view yet... working on it ;-) )
After she has revealed all this to her friends both Trellus and Tishe' begin to cast spells on everyone. (please put the spells you have on you in your next header)
Vayine creeps along with the rest of the pack and readies his sword and shield.
Yanosh accepts the potion from Trellus and he considers adding a range weapon in the near future... if they will be standing on top of the bowl how will his axe reach Evil Horvis down there?!? Something that he needs to remedy soon...
Flea too prepares to battle and brushes over her wands... wondering which one would be most suited to be used in combat. In the end her hand rests on her holy sword...
Then they all fall into place in the line-up as suggested by Trellus. Gilan feels the sudden rush of adrenaline. Goosebumps rise on his body as he feels the euphoria of what he is about to be doing... what shape will he take...
Then the Pack closes in as far as 10ft from the edge... visibility is negligible through the grass (good thing for Olaf is waving his hands right now with his fantastic hide roll)
Araxo and his Manfri will need a few more minutes to go around the bowl. Moments pass slowly...
Goood... goooood feel the adrenaline... embrace the feeling of anticipation my friends... Evil Horvis awaits...
(ooc additionally I would like to ask you to look at the following picture. I have a number of player figures to be used in this map and I'd like you all to have a look and choose a figure for you character. Just say row 1, 2, 3 and the number counting from the left. Player Figures )
Yanosh AC20 - HP 76/76 d20+2=5 ; d20+1=17 ; Friday July 4th, 2008 1:30:33 PM
Yanosh readies to move in. War Axe and shield at the ready. Silently he begins a spell.
Spot 5 Listen 17 (untrained)
spells cast Endure Elements Bless (tattoo) +1 to hit
Highlight to display spoiler: { Spells Prepared Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements*, Hide from Undead
Olaf (hp 50/50, AC 26, resist energy, bless) d20+15=17 ; Friday July 4th, 2008 6:22:03 PM
Olaf prepares his recurved shortbow and, given his friend's ease at noticing his location, another attempt at hiding before sliding forward in the grass (hide 17 (nat 2 :)). He wisely lets Flea take point, and asks if anyone has a silence spell to cast on a pebble---he'll volunteer to get it, and keep it, within range of 'Evil Horis'.
[ooc: can't quite tell what the figures look like, but I'll take row 3, last figure (all the way on the right side)] [spells memorized 0 Level (5): Guidance, Mending, Resistance, Toros's Taur Try (x1), 1 empty slot 1 Level (4+1): Bless, [D]Disguise Self (x2), Magic Weapon, Obscuring Mist 2 Level (3+1): Darkness, Hold Person (DC:16), [D]Invisibility (x2) 3 Level (2+1): [D]Nondetection (x2), Stone Shape]
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell d20+13=16 ; Friday July 4th, 2008 9:01:19 PM
(ooc: I like row three, number 2 for Tishe'. Neat! Can you also change clothing colors?)
Tishe' looks long with her spell, relaying everything she sees to the others. "He's casting some spells over the, well, the Woldsblood I supose, but I can't quite make out what they (Spellcraft:16)... ooo a pretty bird!" She shakes her head and comes out of her reverie. "He's big as a giant now, that's for sure."
She casts her spells and moves out with the Bloodpack. Right at the edge of the hole, she casts the Haste spell making all her packmates move phenomenally faster.
Next, she begins weaving her primary spells, those conjurations that will support her friends. (full round action)
Spell Effects Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 10 points damage from electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 70 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 10 points damage from electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 70 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': ignore first 20 points damage from electrical attacks for 70 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS, 70 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 700 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 70 rounds Haste - Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus: +1 attack, +1 to hit, +10 feet speed
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Trellus [sub SteveK] (AC 22. HP 88/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste 11d6(6+6+5+4+2+1+2+3+1+1+3)=34 Friday July 4th, 2008 9:24:07 PM
(ooc: I guess I'll choose row 3, guy 7 for Trellus and MikeK will just have to live with it. :-))
Preparations look fine, and the group moves out like a prarie piggie through the 'Grass. The blonde cleric knows the Marfri are so much faster than they are through the tall 'Grasses, and so by the time the Bloodpack is in place, the Manfri will too.
Trellus is tense for the signal from Olaf, but gets everyone to stop and makes the final preparation. Pausing to take a breath, he grins.
"NOW!!", Trellus crashes through the last few grass stalks and sights in on the large Horvis. A moment later, a column of fire engulfs the giant! (Flamestrike: 34 damage, Reflex DC 21 for 25 dam)
Active Spells Resist Energy, elec - Gilan Resist Energy, elec - Flea Resist Energy, fire - Olaf Spell Resistance - Trellus SR 23 Magic Vestment - Trellus Prayer, +1 all rolls
------ Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Gilan [HP: 118/118 - AC: 27] Friday July 4th, 2008 11:41:03 PM
Hanging just at the edge of the grass he waits for the others to unleash their spells as he does not really have a distance weapon that might be effective. "Let me know when we are going to decide to get close?" He can feel the anticipation building and he is more than ready for that.
[row 2 #1]
Grymash (ac31, hp115. bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin) Saturday July 5th, 2008 12:07:06 AM
(sorry for the late posting, i was house sitting and they dont have a computer.)
Grymash casts several spells before they move in for that attack. First on himself, he casts Protection from Evil and Owls Wisdom. He casts his last Owls Wisdom on Trellus when he asked. And whoever is going to be fighting up in the front with Grymash he will also bless two of them with Protection from Evil (Yanosh and Olaf).
Now that his magik is spent, other than his domain magiks, Grymash readies his prize possession, he double ax. Let the woldsblood bath begin!
(Cast Owls Wisdom -Trellus, and Prot from Evil on Yanosh and Olaf)
Yanosh AC20 - HP 76/76 Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy Saturday July 5th, 2008 2:30:47 PM
(OoC Guess I'll take row 1 figure 5 Cool figures. Just wish I could see them clearer. )
Setting his Axe on the ground before him Yanosh drinks the potion of Owls wisdom. Picking his Axe up Yanosh moves with the Pack. (OoC I think these are free moves.)
The Battle for Woldsblood part 1 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d3=2 ; d20+10=17 ; d20+10=28 ; d20+19=35 ; 2d4+10=14 ; d20+23=35 ; d2=2 ; d20+19=22 ; 2d4+10=14 ; d20+19=34 ; d4+10=14 ; d20+19=37 ; 2d4+10=16 ; d20+23=30 ; d20+35=45 ; Monday July 7th, 2008 4:11:30 AM
As the pack falls into place everybody waits with nerves on edge till Trellus will give the signal. Yanosh, ready to move first drinks a potion, then he readies his axe and shield and quietly begins a spell... (ooc drinking potions is not a free action however since you are all casting multiple spells, this is even a multiround post... you are giving our evil friend more time to prepare perhaps ;-) )
Olaf prepares his shortbow surprised that his friends still give him credit due to his terrible hiding skills earlier... only this time it's not that much better!!
Tishe' reveals more of what she has seen assuming Evil Horvis is casting spells over the brazier she things is filled with woldsblood... She casts spells on all her friends and then waits for the signal as well...
Gilan waits at the edge of the grass for the others to unleash their spells. He can feel the anticipation building and is more than ready for that!!
Gry too casts several spells and then holds his double axe... ready and willing to start the frenzy!
Flea and Vayine are on edge too and accept all spells that are cast upon them...
Pleased with all preparations Trellus is ready to begin. Mortified by Olaf stumbling again he urges everyone to stop and takes a pause... a few final preparations and then...
... all hell breaks loose!!!
"NOW!!!Trellus shouts and crashes through the last few grass stalks. A moment later a column of fire engulfs the giant!! (Evil Horvis has Spell Resistance 19 -- I rolled for Trellus 1d20+10 = 28)
Failing to resist the blond clerics spell Evil Horvis finds himself surrounded by flames. He also fails to avoid a part of the blistering heat! He growls in pain and agony as the flames scorch his flesh and immediately releases one of the spells he had prepared (the eagle had spotted you, Tishe' saw Evil Horvis preparing spells...)
Immediately at the very extend of his summoning range 2 dire bears appear! Flea and Gilan are knocked back a little as the Dire Bears spring to life. One of them appears on Trellus's left and immediately attacks (Claw hits AC35 -- damage 14HP). The Second claw hits as well (hits AC22 -- damage 14) The claws tears open Trellus's armor and the cleric feels his body being pulled towards the Dire Bear (Grapple check 35)
The second Dire Bear appears in front of Gilan and Olaf. He hauls himself upon Olaf (Gilan was 1, Olaf was 2... I rolled 2) and opens up the human's mithral shirt. (hits AC34 -- damage 14 and AC37 -- damage 16). Blood literally gushes from the Rogue/Cleric's body as he as well is being pulled towards the bear!! (grapple check 30)
"BITE DOWN MY FRIENDS... " Horvis shouts and he begins to cast another spell... (concentration DC 34 damage + 5 spell level = 39 -- rolled 45 -- success) Spellcraft DC20 Highlight to display spoiler: {Animal Growth}
Hardly visible to either of you from the North Araxo and his 10 Manfri begin to race down the ramp into the bowl. Horvis has not spotted them.
Yanosh AC23(25)- HP 76/76 Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy d20+10=17 ; d20+11=30 ; d8+1=5 ; d10+5=11 ; Monday July 7th, 2008 3:58:29 PM
Fininshing his spell a war Axe of Force appears next to Evil Horvis. The weapon attacks the giant Druid. As the dire bears appear Yanosh reacts with sudden speed as his War Axe flashes in an arc hitting the dire bear before him.
Spiritual weapon Hit AC 17+2=19 (Bless & haste) Dmg 5 War Axe Hit Ac 30+2=32 (Bless & Haste) Dmg 11
Spells cast on Yanosh Bless +1 to hit Haste +1 to hit +1 to AC +1 to Ref saves Owls wisdom +4 to wis Temp wis 17 (+3) Protect frm Evil +2 Ac +2 resist saves Resist Energy resist 70/70 elec dmg (10/round elecdmg)
(OoC Yanosh Ac is 23 unless he is alowed to wear the ring picked up under Rattledam the Ac is 25)
Spells cast Bless(Tattoo) Spiritual Weapon
Highlight to display spoiler: { Spells Prepared Level
0 Guidance, Creat Water, Cure Minor Wounds, Light, Resistance
1 Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Endure Elements*, Hide from Undead
Olaf (hp 20/50, AC 26, resist energy, bless, haste) d20+6=13 ; d20+6=13 ; d20+6=24 ; Monday July 7th, 2008 4:15:37 PM
Grunting in pain, Olaf tries desperately to escape the Dire Bear's vicious grip. (opposed grapple check from prior round: 13---is grappled by the bear). Pulled into the deadly embrace, he begins pushing and squirming to get away from the beast, his magically enhanced speed giving him a slight edge. (full attack action gives two grapple checks to break free: 13 and 24. Maybe the 24 works?)
If this drops the first bear, he will cleave into the next one. Cleave attack. HitAC 31. Damage 13. -1 Con.)
Trellus [sub SteveK] (AC 22. HP 75/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste d20+4=24 ; d20+4=8 ; d2+1=2 ; 4d8+11=34 ; Monday July 7th, 2008 8:27:04 PM
(ooc: Hope I don't kill Mike's character. Lovely that while subbing for the leader I bring everyone into a trap! :-)
"Light!" yells Trellus as the first of two bears pile into the group and brings the cleric close to a deadly embrace. Still, he feels lucky that only one claw hit (due to the Prayer spell). Knowing he could never defeat the bear in a wrestling match, Trellus resorts to magic to get him out of the fix. Laying hands on the bear in a wrestling match isn't a problem (unarmed hit AC 24, no crit 8), and Domi's power strikes, inflicting magical wounds on the bear ( 2 fist + 34 Inflict Critical Wounds)
"Range attacks keep after Horvis, Grymash, Yanosh, and Gilan keep the beasts off us!"
Effects Magic Vestment +3 Spell Resistance SR 23 Prayer : within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls
------ Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell d3=3 ; d20+8=13 ; d3=3 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+8=21 ; d4+6=8 ; Monday July 7th, 2008 8:41:36 PM
Tishe' knows the battle is joined, but concentrates on the conjurations that she is bringing in. Soon, the spell is complete and three Hippogryphs appear in the air over the tent at the southern edge of the bowl. "Attack the giant!", Tishe' calls in Celestial, and the three large monsters swoop for the attack. One at a time, all three swoop in for a raking pass at the giant, Evil Horvis before catapulting towards the sky again.
Tishe' concentrates on bringing in some more support, and begins another conjuration spell.
Spell Effects Summon IV - 3 Celestial Hippogryphs - Augmented - AC 15 HP 25 A+8(clawx2) +3(bite) Dd4+6 x2, d8+4; drkvsn; low light; scent; dodge; wingover; acid/cold/electric/5; SR 8; smite
Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 10 points damage from electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 69 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 10 points damage from electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 69 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': ignore first 20 points damage from electrical attacks for 69 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS,69 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 699 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 69 rounds Haste- 6 rounds- Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus: +1 attack, +1 to hit, +10 feet speed
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Gilan [HP: 128/128 - AC: 32(33dodge)] [remorhaz] d20+15=25 ; 3d8+12=25 ; d20+22=34 ; Monday July 7th, 2008 9:49:36 PM
Gilan is shocked by the sudden arrival of creatures, though he should not have been. With a growl of his own his body begins to shift its form as well and soon he is one again the remorhaz. His long neck swings around to snap at the dire bear that is attacking Yanosh and will most likely grapple him. In this form, his teeth are his most dangerous weapon and he wonders as he attacks if he should be doing more.
[hit: 25 and attack: 25, grapple: 34]
Cast barkskin(Yanosh) [+4AC for 1000rounds] barkskin(Grymash) [+4AC for 1000rounds]
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2), meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Active Spells: extended longstrider, endure elements, resist energy(elec)[70/70], haste
*Not sure if with the effects of haste, I can shift form and still get the one attack. If not he will just shift forms.
Flea's hand moves back to select her wand. With a flick and a swish, she activates it (UMD=21) targetting the giant bad guy (Horvis? for 15 pts dmg). The rogue tries to stay hidden (Hide=32) behind her comrades, yet out of reach of the bears, trusting in the magic of the wand rather than her own eyesight.
If there is enough time, she will quaff the potion provided by Trellus. (Owl's wisdom, I missed the earlier prep rounds due to internet issues, but will accept DM's ruling on this.))
DM Sanity Info:
Haste from Tishe - +1 attack, +1 to hit, +10 ft speed Bless from Trellus - within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls Owl's Wisdom - duration 2 minutes (20 rounds) +4 Wisdom will give Will save bonus of +2.
Wand of Magic Missile - 29/50 charges remain
The Battle for Woldsblood part 2 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+23=31 ; d20+23=40 ; 12d8+50=87 ; 12d8+50=90 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+27=36 d20+23=29 d20+23=38 2d4(4+1)+24=29 d20+17=36 2d8(2+6)+9=17 d20+27=35 Tuesday July 8th, 2008 2:10:22 AM
Finishing his spell an Axe of Force appears next to Evil Horvis and it immediately attacks the giant druid... the weapon however only gently strokes Evil Horvis's back. Then Yanosh attacks the Bear that is holding Olaf in a deadly embrace... his axe homes in on the bear and eats a chunk out of the bear's fur...
Olaf grunts in pain and desperately tries to escape the Dire Bear's vicious grip... pushing and squirming he tries to get away from the beast... (grapple checks 31 and 40)... to no avail... the bear only tightens his grip on Olaf. The cleric feels the embrace squeezing every last bit of air out of his lungs... Something must happen fast!
Grymash too helps Yanosh in freeing Olaf. A flury of hacking and slashing blows are sent into the Bear in front of him...
The Bear howls a blood clogging yell in agony as the Half-Orcs Double Axe bites deep into his flesh. The loss of Constitution makes the bear wobble and then he lets go of Olaf as he falls to the ground... the moment his bloody fur touches the ground it vanishes into Oblivion. Since it is only the con loss at the very end that kills the bear Grymash is unable to wield his axe at the other Dire Bear that holds Trellus...
Even while being pulled into a deadly embrace by a bear, Trellus feels lucky that only one claw hit. Knowing he can never defeat this bear in a wrestling match he hopes to call upon the powers of Domi to cast in Inflict Critical Wounds spell... However when being grappled you can only cast spells without somatic components and the Inflict Wounds spells require Verbal and Somatic gestures... Trellus's spell fails. Even so, the Bloodpack leader manages to give directions to his companions...
Tishe' finishes her summoning spell and three Hippogriffs appear over the tent at the southern edge of the bowl. The mystic gives orders and immediately they swoop towards Evil Horvis for a raking pass at the giant. However, none of them succeeds to connect to the Giant Druid... Then Tishe' immediately concentrates to bring in some more support...
Shocked by the sudden arrival of creatures Gilan growls as his body convulses at it shifts into another form... only a few seconds later he is changed into a Remorhaz once again... He bits down on the Dire Bear holding the Bloodpack's leader and in turn Gilan Remorhaz attempts to grapple the Bear...
(ooc yes Flea was also able to prepare prior to battle so she drank the potion... oh I'm far too nice ;-) ) Flea's hand moves back to select her wand and with a flick and a swish 4 magic missiles fly towards Horvis. However the missiles disappear in mid-air... (ooc Evil Horvis has spell resistance 19 and the Wand of Magic Missile Flea uses is at caster lvl 7 so her Spell Resistance check is DC20+7 and I rolled a 9 -- sorry)
Dispite the urgent need for his assistance, Vayine remains awfully quiet... (please do post!)
With no additional damage at all Horvis laughs at the puny attempts of the "saviors of the Woldsblood" Finishing the spell he started last round the Dire Bear Gilan is trying to grapple suddenly begins to grow... he grows beyond proportions!! (Animal Growth) The Dire Bear has now become a Huge Dire Bear and has the same size as Gilan Remorhaz!! The enlarged Dire Bear fights the embrace of the Remorhaz and is able to break free (Grapple 36-1). The Huge Dire Bear releases Trellus and hurls himself upon the Remorhaz that is trying to entwine him... a macabre dance begins between two Huge creatures... The rest of the Bloodpack realizes one of them is their friend Gilan...
Then it's the Bear's turn to Grapple the Remorhaz... Grapple check 35
Seeing how his dire bear is well able to fight the Bloodpack Evil Horvis grins and begins casting yet another spell... (spell craft DC16 Highlight to display spoiler: {Summon Nature's Ally VI })
From the North, Araxo and his Manfri continue to race down the ramp. In the Bowl, several of the manfri are running in all directions...
Bit by bit our friends learn more about Evil Horvis and begin pondering the possiblities for fighting him. Araxo reveals more of his power and the power of Woldsblood and also offers a few potions to help the Bloodpack fighting the Woldsblood pull.
Then at last, the Bloodpack, accompanied by Araxo himself (no one seems to wonder why he's going with ya) and 10 more Manfri, head out to find Evil Horvis and his excavations...
Close to the bowl, Tishe' scans the surroundings with a clairvoyance spell and has a bird's eye view of the Bowl, Horvis and the lay-out of the camp.
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer d20+8=9 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=25 ; d4+6=10 ; d3=2 ; d20+12=21 ; d20+12=15 ; d20+6=18 ; d20+7=19 ; d20+6=10 ; 4d6+4=21 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 1:02:40 PM
(ooc: reread Resist Energy and Prot.v.Energy and changed the descriptions below) ..............
The three Celestial Hippogryphs execute a wingover, and they pass in another straffing run at the Evil Horvis. Of the three, only the third attack has any hope of success (AC 9miss, 12miss, 25 dam 10)
Tishe' finishes another summoning spell and brings into being 2 Celestial Bisons on the floor of the bowl in front of the tent. (range 40 feet). Tishe' gives them no guidance, and so the bison attack the nearest available enemy; the giant Horvis. Separating, they round on either side of the alter and attack (no charge, but now flanking so added +2 attack), yet they fare no better than the hippogryphs. (AC 21, 15)
Taking the opportunity for one bear dead and another bear grappling with Gilan-rehmoraz, Tishe' moves forward to get a eye on Horvis, and weaves another spell. Two amber rays shoot out from the mystic's outstretched finger (Ranged Touch #1: AC 18;SR roll: 19 woo-hoo!. #2 AC 10 miss) and one strikes Horvis burning the druid across his chest (21 fire damage)
Summon IV - 6 rounds - 3 Celestial Hippogryphs - Augmented - AC 15 HP 25 A+8(clawx2) +3(bite) Dd4+6 x2, d8+4; drkvsn; low light; scent; dodge; wingover; acid/cold/electric/5; SR 8; smite
Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 68 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 68 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': ignore first 74 points damage from electrical attacks for 68 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS,68 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 699 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 68 rounds Haste- 5 rounds- Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus: +1 attack, +1 to hit, +30 feet speed
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Trellus [sub SteveK] (AC 22. HP 75/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement d20+14=20 Tuesday July 8th, 2008 1:11:46 PM
Trying to touch a grappling individual is tougher than expected and Trellus loses his spell. (well, here's for trying :-)
Thankfully, Gilan gets the bear's attention, and Trellus is flung to the ground. Immediately, Trellus rectifies the situation and ensures he will not be helpless in an embrace again this battle. (Casts Freedom of Movement). Then stands up.
"Yanosh, can you give Olaf some healing?"
"Remember the plan", he encourages his friends, "wear him down."
He looks over at Horvis, and his eyes narrow at the spell (Spellcraft: 20) "He's summoning more creatures!", he warns the Bloodpack.
Effects Magic Vestment +3 Spell Resistance SR 23 Prayer : within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls Freedom of Movement:
------ Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Grymash (ac29, hp115. bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin, charge) d20+12=23 ; d8+30=32 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 2:21:50 PM
Grymash growls satisfyingly and spins around at break-neck speed to charge the other bear. With a fierce howl, Grymash challenges the bear with swinging ax and reckless abandonment.
Yanosh AC29- HP 76/76 Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy 2d8+4=15 ; d20+12=28 ; d8+1=2 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 4:19:06 PM
Yanosh reaches out and touches Olaf with a healing hand healing 15points of damage. with a movement of his hand Yanoshsends the Spirit Axe again to attack Horvis. Once again the Axe baly touchs Horvis.
Spiritual Axe Hit AC 28 dmg 2
Spells cast on Yanosh Bless +1 to hit Haste +1 to hit +1 to AC +1 to Ref saves Owls wisdom +4 to wis Temp wis 17 (+3) Protect frm Evil +2 Ac +2 resist saves Resist Energy resist 70/70 elec dmg (10/round elecdmg) Barkskin +4 AC (OoC Yanosh Ac is 23 unless he is alowed to wear the ring picked up under Rattledam the Ac is 25)
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 26, resist energy, bless, haste) d20+12=23 ; d20+12=25 ; d6+1=7 ; d6+1=2 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 4:57:40 PM
Healed by Yanosh's kind touch, Olaf aims his shortbow at Evil Horis and fires into the fray (hitting AC 23 and 25, for 7 and 2 points of damage).
Gilan [HP: 82/128 - AC: 32(33dodge)] [remorhaz] d20+22=27 ; d20+15=25 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+15=32 ; 3d8+12=25 ; 3d8+12=32 ; 3d8+12=22 ; d20+22=23 ; d3=3 ; d20+22=39 ; d20+22=24 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 9:42:01 PM
Now the fight is more in the arena that Gilan wanted and he twists and turns in the bears embrace. Though he cannot break free, it does not matter as this just allows him to make use of his natural weapons better. His teeth bite at the creature, returning the favor and moving back in for a regrapple.
This has become a fight between two rather huge behemoths and it can end in only one fashion. The death of one or both in the struggle.
[hit: 25/19/32 and attack: 25/32/22, grapple: 23/39/24]
Cast barkskin(Yanosh) [+4AC for 998rounds] barkskin(Grymash) [+4AC for 998rounds]
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2), meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Active Spells: extended longstrider, endure elements, resist energy(elec)[70/70], haste
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) d20+21=27 ; d20+21=30 ; d20+16=23 ; d10+10=14 ; d10+12=18 ; d10+12=16 ; d10+12=18 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 10:58:55 PM
Vayine Charges to the aid of his packmates (Which ever ally needs the most aid, the map doesn't show the dire creatures attacking the party) his glittering blade tearing into the animals thick hide.
attack 1 hits AC 27 for 18 damage. attack 2 hits AC 30 for 16 damage. attack 3 hits AC 23 for 18 damage.
total damage 52 damage
(I apologize to all you guys for the poor posting last week. its been a very crazy week. sorry again)
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom d20+13=16 ; d20+23=31 ; d20+14=23 ; Tuesday July 8th, 2008 11:27:30 PM
Flea is in awe at the giant cretures locked in a deathly embrace. Her instinct is to help her friend, regardless of his altered appearance. Before the gnome can react, Grymash charges past.
Flea remembers Trellus' instructions, and returns her attention to the giant druid. Her attention is insufficiently focused, and her attempt at activating the wand fizzles (UMD=16, Fail). The rogue hunkers low to avoid being seen (Hide=31) and hoping the noise of combat obscures any sound she makes (Move Silently=23) as moves to her left, skirting the fighting monsters, and hugging the rim of the excavated bowl.
DM Sanity Info:
Position: along rim of bowl, 30 ft from current position (20 ft base + 10 haste) I'm guessing in line with name YANOSH on map, 3 squares over from DB and Giloraz?
Haste from Tishe - +1 attack, +1 to hit, +10 ft speed Bless from Trellus - within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls Owl's Wisdom - duration 2 minutes (20 rounds) +4 Wisdom will give Will save bonus of +2.
Wand of Magic Missile - 28/50 charges remain
The Battle for Woldsblood part 3 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d3=3 ; d20+12=30 ; 2d8=13 ; d20+12=30 ; 2d8=4 ; d20+12=23 ; 2d8=7 ; d20+35=41 ; d20+20=35 ; d20+20=35 ; d8+8=15 ; d8+8=16 ; d20+15=27 ; d8+8=12 ; d20+10=28 ; d20+10=21 ; d8+8=10 ; d8+8=13 ; 7d8(1+5+5+4+4+5+3)+7=34 7d8(6+8+3+1+7+4+5)+7=41 7d8(4+2+1+6+5+5+6)+7=36 Wednesday July 9th, 2008 9:59:24 AM
(ooc today's post is a bit later than usual due to work. Next post will be within less than 24 hours of everyone has posted... please try to post prior)
Again the three Celestial Hippogryphs execute a wingover but like before none of them is able to wound Evil Horvis. He just brushes them away like pesky flies... Finishing another summoning spell Tishe' sends two Celestial Bisons into the fray. They round on either side of the altar and attack Evil Horvis... none of them hurts our friend. All they do is give him a light nudge... Since one bear is dead and the other one is struggling with Gilan Tishe moves forward to get an eye on Horvis and sends two amber rays towards him!! Only one of them strikes Horvis but it does burn... it burns hard! Horvis shouts in pain amazed by the power of some of you...
Trellus is thankful that Gilan gets the bear's attention and ensures he won't be grappled again this battle. He urges Yanosh to heal Olaf and encourages his friends to stick with the plan... wearing Evil Horvis down... Checking Horvis Trellus realizes more creatures are being summoned by the evil druid!!
Satisfied as he sees the first bear crumble Grymash spins around and charges the second bear. With a fierce howl he swings his axe with reckless abandonment!! The bear winces in pain as the axe sinks deep in its side.
At Trellus's advice Yanosh reaches out to Olaf and heals some of his wounds. He then sends his spirit axe again to attack Horvis... the best attack by the Bloodpack so far but still not enough to wound Horvis!! (and I'm keeping his AC a surprise ;-) )
Healed Olaf aims his shortbow at Horvis and fires 2 arrows. Both can't get through his thick hide.
At the rim of the bowl the gruesome fight between the two huge behemoths continues. Only one can survive as Gilan knows. Unable to break free he does what the Remorhaz does best and bites down three times on the Dire Bear... blood chilling howls echo around you until the bear begins to shrink to its original size and ultimately goes limp in the embrace of Gilan Remorhaz...
Since the bear dies in Gilan's arms there's no target anymore for Vayine (were the dire bears invisible on the map for everyone?!?)
Flea hopes to send more Magic Missiles to Evil Horvis only this time her focus is insufficient. She moves along the rim of the bowl towards the left. Above her the Celestial Hippogriffs turns around ready for another fly by attack at Horvis.
Evil Horvis finishes his summoning spell (concentration DC27 = 41 due to damage taken is successful) as Trellus noticed and suddenly 3 arrowhawks come flying towards the Bloodpack (oh if only Horvis knew you are warded by protection from energy spells... I know... but I can't cheat and alter his plans can I?)
With a Flyby attack they swoop down on the Pack.
One attacks Trellus. A crackling ray of electricity bursts towards the cleric. Electricity ray hits touch AC30-1 -- damage 13-1HP
The second arrowhawk lauches an attack at Tishe' who has summoned creatures to fight against Horvis. Electricity ray hits touch AC30 -- damage 4 But all damage is absorbed by Tishe's protective spell from electricity!
The third arrowhawk veers towards Yanosh who controls the spiritual axe. Electricity ray hits touch AC23 -- damage 7 But as with Tishe' all electricity damage is absorbed by the protective spells... (ooc wrong on the map, the arrowhawk's ray is going towards Olaf instead of Yanosh)
Then annoyed by all the creatures surrounding him Horvis takes out a large +1 keen scimitar with amazing speed and lashes out to the Bisons in front of him...
Dire Bear 1 DEAD AC16 (-1 animal growth) -- Touch AC10 Damage taken = 25 + 32 + 25 + 39 + 24 = DEAD HP = 87+24 animal growth Damage reduction 10/Magic +4 resistance on saving throws
Dire Bear 2 - DEAD AC17 -- Touch AC10 Damage taken = 11 + 45 + 12HP CON + 9 + 12 + 12HP CON damage = DEAD HP = 91
Arrowhawk 1(attacking Trellus) AC = 21 HP = 34 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Arrowhawk 2 (Attacking Tishe') AC = 21 HP = 41 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Arrowhawk 3 (attacking Yanosh) AC = 21 HP = 36 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste) d20+29=47 ; d20+29=46 ; d20+15=35 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 11:12:39 AM
Muttering "time to take it to him," Olaf casts invisibility on himself to disguise his movements, then steps back 15 feet and comes running forward, jumping all the way to the platform, bending his knees and rolling with the impact on the ground. (Olaf has 70' movement right now (haste + boots of springing and striding) and does a 30' long jump, along with a jump and tumble check to mitigate 20 feet of falling damage. Jump check for distance 47; jump check for falling damage: 46; tumble check for falling damage 35 (nat 20))
Trellus [sub SteveK] (AC 22. HP 75/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement d20+12=23 ; d20+11=14 ; d20+11=17 ; d20+11=30 ; d20+11=15 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 12:32:21 PM
(ooc: does the Arrowhawk's spell-like elecrical attack get through Trellus' Spell Resistance? SR 23) possible 13 damage.
Trellus winces as the electricity dances around him, but concentrates on Horvis. "Hey, Tishe'!", he calls, "your flyers aren't bothering Horvis at all, maybe they can get the Arrowhawks?"
"And I'll see if we can't lower some of Horvis' defenses!" Concentrating, Trellus casts a targeted Dispel Magic against Horvis. The dispel passes the spell resistance (SR check: 24) and attacks each of Horvis' spells currently on the druid. (ooc: don't know how many personal spells Horvis has, so rolled multiple times 15, 18, 31, 16 vs 11+ Horvis' caster level)
(ooc: I forgot to add the +1 for the Prayer spell on the rolls, but added them in the para above)
Effects Magic Vestment +3 Spell Resistance SR 23 Prayer : within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls Freedom of Movement:
------ Spells [/spoiler] (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer d20+9=28 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+9=10 ; d20+9=13 ; d4+7=8 ; d4+7=11 ; d20+10=18 ; d20+7=17 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+8=12 ; d20+8=18 ; 4d6+4=15 ; 4d6+4=18 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 12:50:27 PM
Responding to Trellus' suggestion, Tishe' calls out to the Celestial Hippogryphs in celestial "Hippogryphs, come fight the Arrowhawks!" Obediant, the three Hippogryphs claw the air to shoot past one of the Arrowhawks and attacking with a claw. (AC 28, 29crit10, 13miss and Dam 8, 11)
Even with its Damage Resistance, one of the Celestial Bisons blinks out of existance at the ferocious attack of the giant. The remaining bison attempts to smite the giant, but misses with its sharp horns.
Ignoring the fluttering Arrowhawks, Tishe' aims her finger and shoots 2 more rays of fire at the Evil Horvis. Both strike, but both fizzle against the druid's Spell Resistance. (rolled damage, 15, 18, just in case the SR went down from Trellus)
Summon IV - 5 rounds - 3 Celestial Hippogryphs - Augmented - AC 15 HP 25 A+8(clawx2) +3(bite) Dd4+6 x2, d8+4; drkvsn; low light; scent; dodge; wingover; acid/cold/electric/5; SR 8; smite
Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 68 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 68 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': 70/74 ignore damage from electrical attacks for 67 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS,67 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 697 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 67 rounds Haste- 4 rounds- Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus: +1 attack, +1 to hit, +30 feet speed
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Yanosh AC29- HP 76/76 Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy,Barkskin d20+12=21 ; d8+1=5 ; d20+2=14 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 4:13:01 PM
Seeing that there is no dmg from the electrical attack Yanosh attacks with the Spiritual Axe again. Charging the edge of the hole Yanosh jumps for the tent below using it to break his fall. Aiming to slide off the left side of the tent.
Spiritual Axe Hit AC 21 Dmg 5 Jump Check 14
Spells cast on Yanosh Bless +1 to hit Haste +1 to hit +1 to AC +1 to Ref saves Owls wisdom +4 to wis Temp wis 17 (+3) Protect frm Evil +2 Ac +2 resist saves Resist Energy resist 70/70 elec dmg (20/round elecdmg) Barkskin +4 AC
Yanosh AC29- HP 76/76 Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy,Barkskin Wednesday July 9th, 2008 4:19:17 PM
OoC I forgot to adjust my resist energy total. It should be 63/70.
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom d20+13=21 ; 4d4+4=12 ; d20+7=21 ; d20+23=27 ; d20+14=31 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 7:28:01 PM
Flea uses the best weapon she has for ranged attacks, (UMD=21, Magic Missile dmg 12, 21 to overcome Spell Resistance) to attack Horvis, then dashes further around the rim of the crater. She hopes her low profile (3 ft. 3 inches) and the fact that the evil one is down below the edge, helps her avoid being seen. (Hide=27, Move Silently=31)
DM Sanity Info:
Position: along rim of bowl, 30 ft from current position (20 ft base + 10 haste) I'm guessing in line with root of tree one line above name FLEA on map, up along the rim?
Haste from Tishe - +1 attack, +1 to hit, +10 ft speed Bless from Trellus (no longer applies-Flea is out of range) Owl's Wisdom - duration 2 minutes (18/20 rounds) +4 Wisdom will give Will save bonus of +2.
Wand of Magic Missile - 27/50 charges remain
Grymash (ac31, hp115. bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin) d20+16=33 ; d20+16=22 ; d20+11=24 ; d8+7=10 ; d8+7=14 ; d8+7=15 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 7:42:47 PM
With the death of the last bear, Grymash surveys the area and sees what needs his immediate attention. Upon spotting the arrowhawks, the half-orc drops his double ax and draws his massive composite bow from his magic quiver. He sends a volley of arrows at the arrowhawk attacking Trishe. He hopes he can provide enough cover to let her continue her assault on the druid.
Vayine AC26 HP 78/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) d20+20=24 ; Wednesday July 9th, 2008 7:53:03 PM
Seeing Yanosh throw himself over the ledge, the Drow figures the dwarf might need someone to watch his back and takes off after him. stopping only for a moment to being climbing down the wall then running (for the rest of what ever his turn is).
Climb roll =24
Gilan [HP: 82/128 - AC: 32(33dodge)] [remorhaz] Wednesday July 9th, 2008 9:47:09 PM
Gilan has nothing to drop as the summoned bear shrinks and then disappears. His roar is one of victory and triumph as his head turns to the sky. Then he is back to the business at hand and though he is unsure of his next move, he does know that it involves protecting those on the hill. With another series of roars and bobbing of his head he casts a simple spell that will further aid him in battle.
He then moves over to put himself in the way of the beast that is attacking Trellus. His huge bulk should provide sufficient cover from the flying beast and still allow Trellus to see the enemy. It is a risk as it brings them into a close proximity, but worth it....maybe.
Cast greater magic fang(Gilan) [+2hit/damage for 10hours] barkskin(Yanosh) [+4AC for 997rounds] barkskin(Grymash) [+4AC for 997rounds]
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2)*, meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
[i]Not sure about exact positioning of Gilan as the map refused to load entirely for me.
The Battle for Woldsblood part 4 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+11=20 ; d20+11=12 ; d20+11=28 ; d20+12=19 ; 2d8=11 ; d20+12=23 ; 2d8=6 ; d20+19=38 ; 2d8+8=13 ; d20+19=34 ; 2d8+8=19 ; d20+19=31 ; 2d8+8=24 ; d4=1 ; d4=3 ; d4=4 ; 3d6=9 ; 3d6=9 ; 3d6=8 ; 3d6=8 ; d4=3 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ; d4=4 ; d4=3 ; d4=3 ; 3d6=10 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=8 ; 3d6=11 ; 3d6=10 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 1:58:34 AM
"Time to take it to him" Olaf thinks and turns invisible... his friends don't know where he went but they hear the thumping of his feet and then suddenly a large thump... then nothing... only to hear someone crashing on the ground somewhere down in the bowl... the rest of the pack can only assume Olaf is down there with Horvis...
Trellus winces as the electricity dances around him (ooc the Arrowhawks electricity ray is a supernatural ability and SU are not subject to spell resistance checks) and calls upon Tishe' to send her Celestial Hippogryphs to fight the Arrowhawks. A fair fight... 3 vs 3...
Then the blond cleric attempts to dispel some of the magic that surrounds Evil Horvis... (added 3 more dispel rolls 20, 12 and 28)
Spell 1 : 15 vs 14 -- Barkskin Dispelled Spell 2 : 18 vs 12 -- Longstrider Dispelled Spell 3 : 31 vs 16 -- Greater Magic Fang Dispelled Spell 4 : 16 vs 18 -- no effect Spell 5 : 20 vs 14 -- Bear's Endurance Dispelled Spell 6 : 12 vs 14 -- no effect Spell 7 : 28 vs 14 -- Cat's Grace Dispelled
Evil Horvise senses the dispelling magic wash over him removing almost all of his protective spells!! Trellus did a fantastic job in lowering Horvis's defenses and strength (his AC just went down by 7!!!!! My complements!!) But will it be enough to deal with Horvis now...
Tishe' responds to Trellus and sends her Celestial Hippogryphs to fight the arrowhawks. Three of them claw the air and shoot past the one attacking Trellus successfully hitting Arrowhawk 1 two times. The remaining Bison again tries to damage Horvis but even with the lowered defenses he fails again.
Ignoring the fluttering Arrowhawks Tishe' aims her finger again and two new amber rays are fired at Horvis. Sadly enough both fizzle against his Spell Resistance. (Horvis doesn't gain his spell resistance from a spell so it's not subject to dispel magic)
Yanosh, pleased to see there's no damage from the electrical attack allows his spirited axe to strike at Horvis once again but even with his drastically lowered AC it fails. Then the dwarf charges towards the edge of the bowl and jumps in aiming for the tent to break his fall.
Succesfully firing another 4 magic missiles at Evil Horvis Flea can here the sizzling of the evil Druid's skin as they strike. Then she moves further along the edge of the bowl hoping her small figure will go unseen...
With the death of the second bear Grymash surveys the area and upon spotting the arrowhawks he drops his axe and draws a massive composite bow (assuming Gry has quick draw feat?) He then sends a volley of deadly arrows at the arrowhawk attacking Tishe' so the mystic can continue to fighting Horvis... His arrows slay the Arrowhawk and in a crackling ball of electricity it vanishes from sight...
(ooc Gry : bowl is 30ft deep)
Seeing Yanosh throw himself over the ledge Vayine figures the dwarf could use someone to watch his back. Carefully he climbs down into the bowl.
Gilan has nothing to drop once the bear vanishes and is unsure of his next move. Protecting the ones on the hill was his task and with a series of roars and bobbing of his Remorhaz head he casts a simple but efficient spell upon himself.
The two remaining arrowhawks now see a series of celestial creatures and warriors closing in on them. One arrowhawk was downed by the Half-Orc and another one is already wounded. What would have been a fair fight with 3 Hippogryphs against 3 arrowhawks suddenly turns in favour of the Bloodpack...
The leftmost arrowhawk that first attacked Trellus now sees a huge ugly wormlike monster in front of him and shoots another ray of electricity from its tail at Gilan Remorhaz.
Electricity Ray Hits touch AC19-1 -- damage 11-1
The rightmost arrowhawk that first attacked Yanosh now turns to face the arrow shooting half-orc and sends another electricity ray at Grymash.
Electricity Ray Hits touch AC23-1 -- damage 6-1
Down in the Bowl Evil Horvis can see two figures jumping or climbing down into his territory. He also feels he has lost a lot of his protective spells...
"KINDERGARTEN IS OVER!!! NOW WE DANCE!!" he threatens as his body begins to convulse and twitch. The Bloodpack has seen this before... they know Gilan has the same ability... a split second later in front of you stands a Huge 12 headed Hydra!!! With all the fire damage our friend Horvis has taken already he has now taken form of a 12 headed Pyro Hydra to be more specific...
It's massive 12 heads spin around searching for targets! First 3 heads bite the Bison (Hydra's reach is 10ft)
Head 1 bites Bison : hits AC36-1 -- damage 13-1-5 = 7 Head 2 bites Bison : hits AC34-1 -- damage 19-1-5 = 13 Head 3 bites Bison : hits AC31-1 -- damage 24-1-5 = 18 Despite the prayer spell and the Celestial creature's damage reduction the Bison sinks to the ground and dies...
Then, the remaining 9 heads turn their attention to the Manfri that come rushing down the ramp and the 2 warriors that just jumped or climbed down into it's territory!
Heads 4, 5, 6 and 7 breath fire at the 5 nearest Manfri engulfing them all in flames.
Head 4 : fire damage 9-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage Head 5 : fire damage 9-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage Head 6 : fire damage 9-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage Head 7 : fire damage 8-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage
The Manfri are engulfed in flames and are under the 4 fire figures on the map.
Heads 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 all breath fire at the biggest threat namely Yanosh and Vayine...
Head 8 : fire damage 10-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage (4) Head 9 : fire damage 11-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage (5) Head 10 : fire damage 8-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage (3) Head 11 : fire damage 11-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage (5) Head 12 : fire damage 10-1 -- reflex save 21 for half damage (4)
Yanosh and Vayine are engulfed in flames and are beneath the 5 fire figures on the map.
The tent goes up in flames as do the benches outside.
"THE WOLDSBLOOD IS MINE!!!!!" Evil Horvis bellows in the shape of the Hydra... a spine-chilling sound it is as Horvis's voice is coming from the mouths of the 12 heads of the Hydra!!
Evil Horvis: PYRO HYDRA SHAPE Damage Taken: 34+21+12 -22 (Hydra fast healing) = 45 Spell Resistance: 19 Breath weapons : Head 1 -- breath weapon available next round Head 2 -- breath weapon available next round Head 3 -- breath weapon available next round Head 4 -- breath weapon -- use again in 1 round -- breath weapon available next round Head 5 -- breath weapon -- use again in 3 rounds Head 6 -- breath weapon -- use again in 4 rounds Head 7 -- breath weapon -- use again in 3 rounds Head 8 -- breath weapon -- use again in 4 rounds Head 9 -- breath weapon -- use again in 4 rounds Head 10 -- breath weapon -- use again in 4 rounds Head 11 -- breath weapon -- use again in 3 rounds Head 12 -- breath weapon -- use again in 3 rounds
Dire Bear 1 DEAD AC16 (-1 animal growth) -- Touch AC10 Damage taken = 25 + 32 + 25 + 39 + 24 = DEAD HP = 87+24 animal growth Damage reduction 10/Magic +4 resistance on saving throws
Dire Bear 2 - DEAD AC17 -- Touch AC10 Damage taken = 11 + 45 + 12HP CON + 9 + 12 + 12HP CON damage = DEAD HP = 91
Arrowhawk 1 (left most arrowhawk -- first attacked Trellus) AC = 21 Damage taken = 19 HP = 34 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Arrowhawk 2 (center arrowhawk -- first attacked Tishe') DEAD AC = 21 Damage taken = 11+15+16 = 42 - DEAD HP = 41 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Arrowhawk 3 (first attacked Yanosh) AC = 21 HP = 36 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Trellus [sub SteveK] (AC 22. HP 62/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement Thursday July 10th, 2008 8:38:53 AM
"Light!" Trellus growls angrily as the three newer members of the Bloodpack break with the plan and move to hand-to-hand combat. And then with the changing of Horvis and the flaming of five Manfri, Trellus again utters the phrase, this time with a growing fear that thier allies are going to get murdered.
"Change of plans dudes!" he calls, "we need to get him concentrating on us and not the Manfri. Gry, go get your axe bloody...Charge!!!" He looks up at the towering Rehmoraz, "You too, Gilan. You may be the only one big enough to get his attention."
Reaching out, Trellus touches Grymash giving him some of the strength of Domi. (Bull's Strength on Grymash +4 STR)
Effects Magic Vestment +3 Spell Resistance SR 23 Prayer : within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls Freedom of Movement: Bulls Strength on Grymash
------ Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer d20+9=18 ; d3=2 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=27 ; d4+6=10 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 8:49:14 AM
Another wingover, and the wing of Hippogryphs turn to isolate and maul a single Arrowhawk. Only a single claw gets through (AC 18miss, 14miss, 27 Dam 10), but the gleam in the Hippogryph eyes promise a more thorough trouncing with a full attack soon.
The Bison winks out of existance.
Seeing that the others are going to be charging soon, Tishe' deftly steps over to Grymash and adds her touch to the half-orc. "Fly, sweetie", she tells him as her magics flow. (Cast Fly spell on Grymash)
Spell Effects
Summon IV - 4 rounds - 3 Celestial Hippogryphs - Augmented - AC 15 HP 25 A+8(clawx2) +3(bite) Dd4+6 x2, d8+4; drkvsn; low light; scent; dodge; wingover; acid/cold/electric/5; SR 8; smite
Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 52 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 53 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': 70/74 ignore damage from electrical attacks for 54 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS,55 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 686 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 66 rounds Haste- 3 rounds- Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus: +1 attack, +1 to hit, +30 feet speed Fly- on Grymash 60 foot fly speed
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Grymash (ac30, hp115. bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin, bull strength, fly, enlarge person) Thursday July 10th, 2008 10:04:58 AM
Grymash gives Trellus a nod and as he drops his bow. After grabbing his double ax, he then takes a potion from his belt pouch. Biting the cork off, he downs it with a single gulp. The already large half-orc begins to grow double his normal size. (Enlarge Person potion) "Dat piggie no so big! Muhahahaa!" Grymash turns his gaze towards Horvis and his eyes begin to become engorged with blood. The demon within is about to be set free .... does Horvis have enough heads for this?
[ADM StevenVdB] Stephen I know it ain't much but you haven't taken the electricity ray damage into accout. A meager 5 HP but all things help ;-)
Grymash Thursday July 10th, 2008 12:44:22 PM
The electricity of the arrowhawk dances and sparks around the half-orc's steelgrass breastplate, but quickly fizzles and blinks out of sight. Grymash barely notices.
(Steelgrass armor has a natural Electric Resist of 5 or 10, I can't remember.)
Vayine AC26 HP 40/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) d20+20=27 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+16=33 ; d10+12=20 ; d10+12=21 ; d10+12=14 ; d20+10=11 ; d20+10=12 ; d3=1 ; d20+10=19 ; d20+10=22 ; d20+10=23 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 3:50:58 PM
Vayine's ebony skin puckers and pops as the flames rush over the drow. the warrior curses the blood lusting Dwarf for running at the now scaly titan before them. (total damage taken from fire is 38 which has been deducted from my hitpoints.) the Drow's rage however is unleased on the scaly creature.
attack 1 hits AC 27 for 20 damage (wounding quality from sword to be added if needed save is failed) attack 2 hits AC 37 (Critical hit) for 21 (42 damage for critical as sword has a x2 crit. mod + wounding) attack 3 Hits AC 33 (critical hit) for 14 damage (28 for crit. + wounding)
total damage before crit. = 55 (Plus wounding) total damage with crit. = 90 (+ wounding damage)
Yanosh AC29- HP 43/76 Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy,Barkskin d20+5=22 ; d20+5=19 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+5=22 ; d20+5=17 ; d20+11=26 ; d20+6=13 ; d10+5=11 ; d10+5=11 ; Thursday July 10th, 2008 4:59:13 PM
Roaring in pain as once again he burns under the flames in this his new home. Yanosh rushes up to the monster Axe slicing the air. Do to the pain of the fire Yanosh looses his spiritual Axe. "Yes Fiend let us dance. The Woldsblood belongs to the Gods not you."
Saves vs fire(Did not add the +3 from protect from evil or haste spells during the rolls) 23 pass 22 passed 22 pass 23 pass 20 failed total dmg 33
Hit AC26 +2=AC28 dmg 11 (Forgot spell bonuses here too) Hit AC13 failed
Spells cast on Yanosh Bless +1 to hit Haste +1 to hit +1 to AC +1 to Ref saves Owls wisdom +4 to wis Temp wis 17 (+3) Protect frm Evil +2 Ac +2 resist saves Resist Energy resist 70/70 elec dmg (20/round elecdmg) Barkskin +4 AC
Gilan [HP: 81/128 - AC: 33(34dodge)] [remorhaz] Thursday July 10th, 2008 8:16:58 PM
Gilan understands the need for him to get down and draw some attention and that is exactly what he plans to do. Another series of growls and roars accentuated by the bobbing of his head, the casting of a spell is done. The electricity that had washed over him earlier is nothing to him and the damage is not even really enough to worry about.
Lifting slightly in the air, he uses his own tail to sort of steer his walking body down into the bowl. His full attention is now on the hydra and he roars a challenge though he knows that the heads can hit in many direction...they all have seen that first hand.
Cast air walk(Gilan) [1000rounds] greater magic fang(Gilan) [+2hit/damage for 10hours] barkskin(Yanosh) [+4AC for 996rounds] barkskin(Grymash) [+4AC for 996rounds]
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2)*, meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk*, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom, Invisible Friday July 11th, 2008 12:24:18 AM
Flea witnesses the metamorphosis of Horvis. It is more terrible than anything she has ever seen before. The rogue reaches her free hand over her shoulder and into her HHHaversack, and finds the potion she seeks. Pulling out the plug with her teeth, she down the fluid held in the vial. (Invisibility)
DM Sanity Info:
Position: along rim of bowl, 30 ft from current position (20 ft base + 10 haste) I'm guessing in line with root of tree one line above name FLEA on map, up along the rim?
Haste from Tishe - +1 attack, +1 to hit, +10 ft speed Bless from Trellus (no longer applies-Flea is out of range) Owl's Wisdom - duration 2 minutes (18/20 rounds) +4 Wisdom will give Will save bonus of +2. Invisibility
Wand of Magic Missile - 27/50 charges remain
The Battle for Woldsblood part 5 ... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+17=21 ; d20+20=30 ; d20+15=29 ; d20+17=23 ; d20+12=27 ; 2d8=12 ; d20+12=15 ; 2d8=5 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+17=21 ; d20+17=26 ; d20+17=35 ; 2d8+6=18 ; d20+17=32 ; 2d8+6=17 ; d20+17=36 ; 2d8+6=14 ; d20+17=36 ; 2d8+6=9 ; d20+17=34 ; 2d8+6=15 ; d20+17=20 ; d20+17=34 ; 2d8+6=12 ; 3d6=9 ; 3d6=12 ; Friday July 11th, 2008 2:53:37 AM Trellus angrily growls as the three newer members of the Bloodpack break with the original plan and move to hand-to-hand combat with Horvis. Seeing Horvis also flame five Manfri brings fear in his heart for loosing his allies.
"Change of plans dudes!" Trellus shouts "Charge!"
Additionally he touches Gry and enhances his strength...
The three Hippogryphs perform another wingover at the isolated Arrowhawk. It's not enough to get the Arrowhawk killed but the Hippogryphs feel confident next wingover will destroy the Arrowhawk...
Realizing the others are going to be charging soon, Tishe' moves over to Grymash and also casts a spell on him. Now the empowered Half-Orc also knows how to fly...
Grymash nods to Trellus as he readies his double ax and quaffs a potion from his belt. Already large Gry now even grows beyond proportions and to twice his normal size!! His eyes engorged with blood his eyes glance at Evil Horvis... will Horvis have enough heads to deal with a raging, double sized, flying and empowered Half-Orc? A Half-Orc that also wears steel grass armor which protects him against natural electricity?!?
(ooc sjeez you guys are well protected!! Sorry Gry for forgetting about the armor...)
Vayine takes heavy damage from the fire that engulfed him and Yanosh. Never the less, the Drow's range now unleashes on the scaly titan in front of him...
(Vayine has a reach of 5ft -- the Hydra has 10ft reach so our friend Horvis has an AoO vs Vayine first)
As Vayine closes in on Horvis one of the heads snaps at Vayine. Head hits AC21 -- misses.
Luckily for Vayine the head misses and it's teeth clang on the Drow's Armor. Then Vayine's newly found wounding sword sings and cuts deep into Horvis... with his AC so drastically lowered by Trellus's Dispel Magic Vayine's weapon hits three times!! (AC Horvis dropped to 27 -- came down from 34)
(ooc Vayine, when your first attack roll in critical you have to confirm the crit hit with a second successful attack. I rolled two additional attack rolls for your critical threats and well... both were indeed critical ;-) )
Once again Yanosh roars in pain under the terrible burns. He rushes up to the monster (Horvis get AoO vs Yanosh) and accepts Horvis's invitation to dance... Head hits AC23 - misses
As Yanosh passes a head snaps at him but fails to rip through the dwarves armor. Then comes the Axe as it only rips through the PyroHyrdra's scales... By doing this however he break the part of the Protection from Evil Spell that would have blocked the Hydra from biting the dwarf!
Gilan understands the need for him to get down and draw some attention. Not worrying about the electricity he lifts slightly in the air and commences to 'walk' through the air towards the Hydra...
Like Olaf -- knowing knows where he is at the moment and he has been awfully quiet down there in the bowl -- Flea quaffs a potion and turns invisible...
Incredibly the PyroHydra seems to wobble under the massive damage dealt by Vayine and Yanosh... as if it was brought to the brink of death but saves by his fast healing...
The Arrowhawks to the south now concentrate on the Hippogryphs and fire more electricity rays to the celestial creatures.
Left arrowhawk fires at left Hippo and hits AC27-1 -- damage 12-1 Right Arrowhawk fires at rightmost Hippo and hits AC15-1 -- damage 5-1
Evil Horvis in PyroHydra shape now sees an enlarged Half-Orc and another enlarged Remorhaz standing at the rim of the Bowl. In front of him stands a dwarf and a drow with weapons that bite real hard... many of his powers have been taken by magic and blood gushes from many cuts in his underbelly...
Dispite the massive damage he still has his 12 heads... and they can still bite...
Head 3 bites Vayine and hits AC26-1 -- miss Head 4 bites Yanosh and hits AC21-1 -- miss Head 5 bites Vayine and hits AC26-1 -- miss Head 6 bites Yanosh and hits AC35-1 -- damage 18-1 Head 7 bites Vayine and hits AC32-1 -- damage 17-1 Head 8 bites Yanosh and hits AC36-1 -- damage 14-1 Head 9 bites Vayine and hits AC36-1 -- damage 9-1 Head 10 bites Yanosh and hits AC34-1 -- damage 15-1 Head 11 bites Vayine and hits AC20-1 -- miss Head 12 bites Vayine and hits AC34-1 -- damage 12-1
Yanosh crumbles to the ground at -1 HP!! Vayine is at 5HP
Heads 1 and 2 intend to finish it and burn both warriors in front of them...
Head 1 : fire damage 9-1 -- reflex save 21 for half (4) Head 2 : fire damage 12-1 -- reflex save 21 for half (5)
Sadly enough Yanosh is already dying on the ground and has the fire wash over him mercilessly and dies... (full damage -- more than -10 HP) Without a doubt, Vayine is also dying on the ground...
Even though they have been foolish enough to go headlong against a Hydra, Vayine and Yanosh have succeeded in almost slaying it!!
Then Horvis gazes at the two enlarged monsters in front of him... with no direct threat close to him his PyroHydra body begins to convulse once again. In a split second his has altered his body into that of an Air Elemental!!
Realizing the battle is lost -- though not the war- he lifts of and flies away... (speed 100ft per round excellent flying)
Then around the bowl all falls silent... There are now most likely two heavily burned warriors on the ground of which one is already beyond help... the 5 scorched Manfri are still standing but have taken massive damage too. ... Araxo stands close to the Dias and is observing the brazier with the bubbling red liquid...
Evil Horvis: AIR ELEMENTAL Damage Taken: 34+21+12 -- 22 (Hydra fast healing) + 20 + CON damage + 42 + 28 + CON damage +11 - 22 (Hydra fast healing) = 124 Spell Resistance: 19
Arrowhawk 1 (left most arrowhawk -- first attacked [b]Trellus[/b]) AC = 21 Damage taken = 19 -- 10 = 29 HP = 34 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Arrowhawk 3 (first attacked [b]Yanosh[/b]) AC = 21 HP = 36 Immunity to Acid, Electricity and Poison Resistance to Cold 10 and Fire 10
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste) 3d8+5=18 ; Friday July 11th, 2008 3:07:57 AM
[ooc: sorry for not posting. Internet went down for 12 hours at my hotel :(]
Olaf sees Horvis lift off, and cursing softly, runs to Vayine, whom he might be able to help. Calling upon Celsiun, he mutters, "healin' be good 'bout now, I'm thinkin'," and loses nondetection to cast cure serious wounds (healing 18 points of damage). He then turns to the charred body of his dwarven friend, and invisible tears begin to drip upon the ground.
Grymash (ac28, hp115. ragehp 135. rage, bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin, bull strength, fly, enlarge person) d20+15=29 ; 2d6+36=45 ; d20+15=20 ; 2d6+36=40 ; Friday July 11th, 2008 4:11:51 AM
The vision of his comrades being slain and the coward's retreat is more than the half-orc can stand. What started out as simple feral rage has now turned into an unbridled blood-boiling frenzy. With Horvis escaping on the breeze, his primal instinct is to attack the nearest enemy that appears threatening to him. Flying up to a healthy arrowhawk, he unleashes his fury.
If within 10ft of the other arrowhawk, he will cleave attack. HitAC 20. Damage 40. -1 Con.)
Grymash turns his gaze skyward and yells out his challenge, "HOOOORRRVVVVAAHHH!!"
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer d20+9=26 ; d20+9=27 ; d20+9=29 ; d20+9=14 ; d20+9=26 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+4=18 ; d20+4=22 ; d20+4=15 ; d4+7=11 ; d4+7=10 ; d4+7=11 ; d4+7=9 ; d8+5=9 ; 4d4+8=16 ; d20+7=20 Friday July 11th, 2008 11:17:51 AM
The hippogryphs take thier lumps, thier celestial makeup giving them a defense against the electrical attacks (elecric reduction/5), and being in close proximity of thier isolated Arrowhawk, the celestial monsters go into full attack mode. Six claws and three beak bites later, and the Arrowhawk is bleeding from multiple tears and feathers are everywhere! (AC 26, 27, 29, 14miss, 26, 17miss, 18miss, 22, 15miss Damage 11.10.11.9.9= 50)
She cringes at the forms of Yanosh and Vayine, two more companions felled by fire, and her eyes narrow up at the fleeing Horvis-elemental. Her hand goes into her Sargrass Pockets o Plenty and retrieves just what she needs, her wand of magic missles. Activating the wand, four amber bolts of energy streak up and slam into Evil Horvis (16 damage due to Prayer spell). (SR check 20 made it!)
Another hand and another pocket produce a magical rod to extend Tishe's spells to tremendous ranges. "I won't lose another companionn because you excaped", she seethes under her breath.
Spell Effects Summon IV - 3 rounds - 3 Celestial Hippogryphs - Augmented - AC 15 HP 18, 25, 25 A+8(clawx2) +3(bite) Dd4+6 x2, d8+4; drkvsn; low light; scent; dodge; wingover; acid/cold/electric/5; SR 8; smite
Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 51 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 52 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': 70/74 ignore damage from electrical attacks for 54 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS, 54 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 685 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 65 rounds Haste- 2 rounds- Grymash, Vayine, Olaf, Yanosh, Gilan, Flea, Trellus: +1 attack, +1 to hit, +30 feet speed Fly- on Grymash 60 foot fly speed
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Trellus(AC 22. HP 62/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement d20+11=20 ; 11d6=36 ; Friday July 11th, 2008 11:55:09 AM
Like Tishe, Trellus isn't ready to let Horvis go just yet.
The cleric casts a spell, dropping another pillar of flame onto the rapidly escaping air elemental.
[Flame Strike (range 200'). Roll 20 to overcome Horvis SR. Attack causes 36 hp damage (18 fire, 18 divine). Reflex DC 21 halves]
Effects Magic Vestment +3 Spell Resistance SR 23 Prayer : within 40 feet, all allies gain +1 attack, damage, skill and saves. All opponents gain -1 on all rolls Freedom of Movement: Bulls Strength on Grymash
------ Highlight to display spoiler: { (cast as level 11 due to Setanos' Vestment): d -- domain spell p -- recast with pearl of power * - cast spell
Yanosh (Dead) Bless,Haste, Prot frm Evil, Owls Wis,Resist Energy,Barkskin Friday July 11th, 2008 1:03:56 PM
As the Hydras teeth rip into him Yanosh realises it is the end. "Gargul forgive me. I have failed my Pack," he groans as he falls to the ground unconscious. Then the fire washes over him ending his adventures the way they started....by burning.
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) d20+10=27 ; d20+10=27 ; Friday July 11th, 2008 4:41:44 PM
Vayine made both of his reflex saves against the fire and is healed 14 points. (after the fire damage)
Yanosh, If I'm not mistaken you still get a reflex save from the fire. if you pass any of them you can be healed before you reach -10hp. My action depends on your rolls.
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom Friday July 11th, 2008 8:43:03 PM
Lowering the hand holding the vial, Flea takes in the carnage. Nooooooo! Not again! Not another one! she thinks. The rogue closes her eyes, and opens them, and her vision focuses on the alter and the Woldsblood. No matter what, the rogue is committed to protecting the source.
The invisible rogue leaps over the side of the crater, ring of Feather Fall slows her drop. On landing at the bottom of the crater she runs towards the alter, and places herself between anyone, friend or foe, and the source of the rivultet coursing to the Shadowlands.
Gilan [HP: 81/128 - AC: 28(dodge)] Friday July 11th, 2008 9:02:25 PM
Gilan comes to land upon the ground, his body shifting as he does back into the human that he is. He glances to the sky and shudders as this evil druid is escaping. His spells are limited and he is not even sure if any of them would be effective against the druid...seeing as he can only think of one of his spells that might have helped.
His eyes scan the area and takes in the dead, plus those that are close to it. With a look of sorrow he moves off to the side, not going close to the Woldsblood...though his thoughts are on how to seal it up. Glancing to Trellus he nods in the direction of Horvis and smiles. "I will either take Flea or Tishe' and hunt him down...if we can stay close enough she can hit him with magic. With Gry along as well with his fly spell we might just pull it off." He waits to see if the order is give to take back to the air...he has a couple of forms that would seem rather interesting.
Cast air walk(Gilan) [999rounds] greater magic fang(Gilan) [+2hit/damage for 10hours] barkskin(Yanosh) [+4AC for 995rounds] barkskin(Grymash) [+4AC for 995rounds]
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2)*, meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk*, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) d6=1 ; d6=5 ; d6=2 ; Friday July 11th, 2008 9:08:45 PM
Vayine kneels by the fallen dwarf and closes his eyes speaking the activation word. his hands glow blue and the healing power of his tattoo pours over the burnt and blistered body. (uses all three charges if able)
FIrst charge cures 1 point of damage second charge heals 5 points of damage Third charge heals 2 points of damage
"Find Horvis Olaf and and myself will stay with Yanosh, its too important to let Horvis go." the Drow shouts his words to his companions. knowing that he wounded the creature badly, but took a lot of damage in turn.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday July 14th, 2008 1:02:44 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of July 7 - July 13
"NOW" Trellus shouts after having prepared the Bloodpack for battle... A column of fire announces the beginning of a terrible battle between the Bloodpack and the evil Druid Horvis.
Creatures are summoned to fight, chapes are changes, powerful spells are cast... And in the end Evil Horvis changes into a 12-headed Hydra and just before fleeing from the awesome power of the Bloodpack he kills Yanosh and nearly downs Vayine...
But... The Bloodpack seems fixed to get Horvis before he can escape!!
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Horvis's escape... [ADM StevenVdB] d20+19=24 ; Monday July 14th, 2008 1:34:31 AM
Leaving the scorched bodies behind Horvis hopes to escape as an Air Elemental. Olaf curses softly and runs to Vayine to cure his burns. He realizes Yanosh's injuries are way beyond his powers.
Gry can not stand the vision of his comrades being slain and releases some of this rage onto the Arrowhawks. He simply slices through both of them and sends them back to where they came from... into nothingness... He then turns his gaze skyward and yells out his challenge...
Seeing two of her companions felled by fire makes Tishe' cringe and her eyes narrow up at the fleeing elemental... she retrieves a wand of magic missiles and sends 4 bolts to chasing Evil Horvis unwilling to loose another companion ever because Horvis escaped...
Trellus too isn't ready to let go of Horvis... another pillar of flames drops down on the escaping Air elemental... just the way the battle started. Being a nimble Air Elemental now, Horvis is able to avoid part of the damage (9 damage + 18 divine) Even from this distance you can hear Horvis scream in pain!!
Flea lowers the hand that holds the vial and takes in the carnage... then she focuses on the alter and the Woldsblood. No matter what, the rogue is commited to protecting the source. She leaps over the side of the bowl and places herself between the brazier and anyone who intends to visit the shadowlands... perhaps it can stop Yanosh from travelling to the Shadowlands?
Uncertain if his magic would work against the Evil Druid Gilan offers to take Gry and Flea and begin the chase... waiting for Trellus to agree to accept his offer Gilan waits...
Vayine kneels by his fallen friend and attempts to bring him back with use of the magic hidden in his tattoo... however the dwarven master can no longer be helped by the healing powers of the tattoo.. Then Vayine shouts to his companions to go and chase Horvis!!
Up there in the air the Air Elemental clearly dropped a few feet as it was hit by the magic missiles and the column of fire. Reacting he increases his speed (flying speed 100ft -- running speed 400ft -- double move -- 800ft)
Araxo joins Flea at the Brazier and places his little hands on her shoulder.
"I must seal the Woldsblood..."
Evil Horvis: AIR ELEMENTAL Damage Taken: 34+21+12 -- 22 (Hydra fast healing) + 20 + 42 + 28 + 11 - 22 (Hydra fast healing) + 16 +27 = 167 HP : 200 -- 13 CON damage -- 13 CON damage = 174 Spell Resistance: 19
Trellus(AC 22. HP 62/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement Monday July 14th, 2008 4:33:39 PM
Trellus grimaces as he watches Horvis fly off. Gilan's offer is tempting, but after a moment or two Trellus shakes his head.
"No," he sighs. "We might need you to deal with this Woldsblood stuff. You and me are probably the least likely to succumb to it."
With another glance at the retreating elemental, Trellus grates, "Let's get down there and see if we can help Araxo."
The cleric works his way around the hole to get to the side with the ramp.
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer d20+11=19 ; Monday July 14th, 2008 5:46:47 PM
(ooc: Tishe's last Magic Missles had a range of 170 feet so hit Horvis, right? 7th level wand.)
Dropping her wand as being out of range, Tishe' grabs ahold of her Staff of Ice in one hand and her Rod of Extension in the other. Biting her lip, she stops before casting any more spells, only keeping an eye on Horvis to ensure he doesn't return before he is out of sight. (Spot: 19) "Just out of range", she spits in disgust.
The Celestial Hippogryphs have no other enemy in range and so slowly fade away after a dozen more seconds over the pit.
The Haste spell likewise fades on her packmates.
Getting her thinking cap back on Tishe' calls out. "I remember a large bird above the pit when scrying on Horvis. It is probably his companion since there are no birds in the Sargrass. Can anyone see it to take it out?"
Spell Effects Resist Energy, Electric - Vayine: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 51 rounds Resist Energy Electric - Yanosh: ignore first 20 points damage per electrical attacks, up to 70 points, 52 rounds Prot v Energy Electric - Tishe': 70/74 ignore damage from electrical attacks for 54 rounds Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Owl Wisdom - Tishe': +4 WIS, 54 rounds Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 685 rounds Shield - Tishe': +4 AC, no magic missle, 65 rounds Fly- on Grymash 60 foot fly speed; 68 rounds
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom, Invisible d20-1=15 ; Monday July 14th, 2008 6:12:33 PM
Eye to eye with Araxo, Flea tries to discern the manfri's motive. The manfri had always been friend to the Bloodpack. (Sense Motive=15)
"What about Yanosh?" she asks quietly. The dwarf was her confessor, and her guide to understanding the god of life and death.
"What about Yanosh?" she wails. He was also her last tangible connection with the Vein and the one who had been left behind.
And now he was gone. Had his soul already joined with the pulsing Woldsblood source exposed at the altar?
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) Monday July 14th, 2008 8:04:14 PM
Accidently bumping into another invisible ally, Olaf's shaky voice bemoans the loss of the dwarf, his traveling companion of many seasons. "Yanosh...the skalds will sing your name in the Vein." A chill note enters into his tone as he finishes, "and Horvis---his shall be the cold death of Celsiun."
Staying away from the Woldsblood, given his past experience with it, he calls to his companions, "I'm thinking we should give the 'blood a wide berth---more than a human's length'll should do."
Gilan [HP: 81/128 - AC: 28(dodge)] Monday July 14th, 2008 8:46:12 PM
With a simple shake of his head he allows it to all drop. He glances to the body of their fallen comrade and he wishes that they had had more time to get to know him better. With another shake of his head he moves over to stand near Trellus and glances in the direction of the altar. "I will do what little I can...but this is very dangerous stuff." He does not know what they can do about it for sure...but maybe the Manfri can do something.
Pinning his hopes on this continues to hang back, not wanting to get too close. They have a number of things to do here and he is not really sure where to start.
Grymash (ac28, hp115. ragehp 135. rage3, bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin, bull strength, fly, enlarge person) Monday July 14th, 2008 9:55:09 PM
Grymash begins his chase after the fleeing druid as he quickly makes his get-away. The half-orc is less than thrilled with his fly spells slow speed. He continues to roar into the air as the spell tugs him along.
(Fly spell only has a speed of 60, and only half that if he is going up, and he can't run. So as a double move, the fly spell only produces 60-ft of lift.)
Time to seal the Woldsblood leakage... [ADM StevenVdB] Tuesday July 15th, 2008 7:51:48 AM
No matter how tempting Gilan's offer is to chase the fleeing Evil Horvis, Trellus realizes it's no use and they need all the help the can get to control the Woldsblood. He suggests to go down into the bowl and to help Araxo with the brazier.
(ooc yes Tishe's wand hit Horvis)
Unwilling to let Horvis escape Tishe' readies her Staff of Ice but stops before casting any more spells... he's too far away. Making sure he's not turning around she continues to stare at the Air Elemental as it becomes smaller and smaller until it disappears in the horizon.
Then she looks up into the air and scans the surrounding for the bird she saw earlier... no trace of it... knowing Gilan can no longer have a companion and the similarities in their shape changing abilities make Tishe' realize it could not have been his companion. Perhaps he had nother way of using an animal to do what he wanted... perhaps a summoned animal to guard his excavations? Could be many things...
Gilan nods to Trellus and glances to the body of their fallen comrade. Ready to do what little he can do he joins Trellus down into the bowl.
Gilan and Trellus both watch Grymash as he begins his chase and how he becomes frustrated with the fly spell that is slowing him down...
He's gone... escaped... but where will he go?!? To make this worse, he escaped with only 7HP left!! Had he not changed into a Hydra with Fast Healing he would have died...
Down in the bowl Olaf and Flea are worried about Yanosh... where is he now? Has he already given in to the Woldsblood to bring him to the lands of Rest. Flea remember how the brave dwarf used to say Death is a part of life and it comes to all. She recalls how he questioned her on the reason for trying to avoid death... Has he accepted his faith? Is he already gone?
Olaf warns the others for not going to close to the Woldsblood. It's a dangerous substance and he has seen the effect it had on friends of old.
"Wait my friends... don't come near. This is something I alone can fix..."
Araxo steps onto the dais and walks to the large altar. Apparently he is unaffected by the Woldsblood. As he raises his hands over the brazier you can see them glowing red... he's a Fixer!! No wonder he is trying to protect the abuse of Woldsblood!! Waving his hands over the brazier Araxo pulls little fumes of the reddish glowing substance to him.
Grymash (ac28, hp115. ragehp 135. rage3, bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, haste, barkskin, bull strength, fly, enlarge person) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 11:48:49 AM
Raging Grymash continues to chase down the escaping druid. He fails to comprehend why the air elemental is getting smaller in size. He reaches out his fist to grab him. He thinks he is so small now. If only he could reach him, he could crush him in his fist. It infuriates him that the druid is getting too small to see. "AAAUUUGGHHH!!"
(Grymash flies up another 60ft.)
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer Tuesday July 15th, 2008 4:41:32 PM
(ooc: Stephen, funny. I was wondering why Grymash didn't charge when Horvis was only 100 feet away... now I know,)
Fuming and brown eyes flashing, Tishe' watches Grymash take his frustrations out on the air as Horvis escapes. "No", she says as she grinds her teeth, "we won't get satisfaction so easily, will we sweetie?"
When it is evident that Evil Horvis is gone and isn't coming back any time soon, the woman tucks a stray lock of brown wavy hair behind an ear and looks down into the pit. She takes the long walk around to the north ramp in order to come in and meet with her pack. All the while she watches Araxo and Olaf working with the Woldsblood. Facinating!
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom, Invisible Tuesday July 15th, 2008 8:40:16 PM
Flea steps away from Araxo and the Woldsblood, her shoulders slumping.
She finds the broken and burned body of her friend, and falling to her knees, she craddle's the dwarf's head. "You were beautiful to me, Yanosh," she whispers to the corpse of the dead cleric.
Gilan [HP: 81/128 - AC: 28(dodge)] Tuesday July 15th, 2008 9:10:59 PM
Gilan shrugs as they are warned back and to make better use of his time he starts to move around the area, searching the tents or what remains of them. Anything that he might be able to find that would lend aid to their cause he will gather as he finds it, unless it might be dangerous.
It appears that they let another of their order die and he is not sure if he can bring himself to stand before Gargul again. Not that he would not do it if the group wanted to, just that he is not sure that it would be a good idea...maybe if they knew that Yanosh would want to come back. Maybe it was not truely time for his thread to be cut...but that was usually not the case. Could they really ask such a boon from Gargul again and was it right to want to do such a thing.
Shaking his head he cannot feel right about doing that, but he also feels responsible. He joined the Bloodpack and was killed, a new man and they lost him. He needed time to think things through and get a better understanding of his thoughts.
Yanosh (Dead) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 9:31:52 PM
His eyes open and Yanosh sits up. Looking around he wonders what happened. "Did we kill him?" he asks.
When no one answers him Yanosh wonders again what happened. Standing Yanosh turns and sees a sight that chills him to his core. Behind him on the ground kneels Flea, the first to befriend him. And in her lap lays a burned battered head. One he knows far to well. Reflections of that face haunted him his whole life. Its Him! He is laying in Fleas lap.
'By Gargul,' he thinks,'Its happened. I have finally done it. I have finally gone and got myself killed.' Looking the Bloodpack over another sight fills him with remorse. Vayine! 'Vayine was with me. I lead him almost to his death too.'
Hearing Flea cry out to him Yanosh walks over to her and places a hand upon her shoulder. "I am still hear sweet Flea. I have not left you yet. Be calm I have not yet passed over to the lands of rest."
At that Yanosh can feel the slight tug of the Woldsblood calling him. But something keeps him here. Why does he not feel compeled to leave the land of the living? Why does the Woldsblood not call stronger for him. Does Gargul not want him? Has he offended the God of Death? His god. The one he swore to serve if he would only grant the life of Garret back to the lands of the living? Did he not grant that life? Yes he said he would but Garrett never came back to the Ice Pack.
"Peace be with you Flea. And all of you." with that Yanosh leans over and places a kiss on the top of Fleas head.
Yanosh (Dead) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 9:59:00 PM
OoC I need a Sub for Yanosh (Provided he comes back) and for Morta in the Silk Tap. Starting August 5 thru August 21. I will be going on Vacation to Pennsylvania for 20 days. I have asked for this to be posted into the L&B for me because once again I can not get into the L&B. Role Playing Advice on Yanosh can be provided by E-Mail if wanted.
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) Tuesday July 15th, 2008 10:13:17 PM
Agghh!!! the Drow screams. the healing of the power of his tattoo having failed in restoring the life of his companion. the Drows eyes blaze with anger and but pride for his fallen friend. "You fell with honor brother. I will share your tale to all I meet." the drow limps over to the others. taking time to place his hand on the small gnomes shoulders. "I'm sorry Flea, I tried, I really did. I...." the words seem foreign to the warrior. the warrior looks away and moves towards the cleric and druid but staying several feet back...out of caution or shame its hard to tell.
Time to seal the Woldsblood leakage... [ADM StevenVdB] Wednesday July 16th, 2008 8:35:46 AM
Unable to grasp the fact that Horvis appears to keep getting smaller Grymash continues to chase him feeling confident that now Horvis is shrinking he'll be able to squat him like a pesky fly... but then he's frustrated that the druid got so small he could no longer see him! A primal roar is all Gry has to calm his rage...
Tishe' observes Araxo as he works on the Woldsblood. Indeed it is fascinating... little red fumes are drawn to his hands... his hands glow red...
Since Araxo is dealing with the Woldsblood, Flea falls to her kneed next ot Yanosh and cradles the dwarves'head... though scarred and burned she whispers to his mutilated body.
Gilan is not certain he can stand before Gargul once more hoping to save one of his family. Yet another one died... it wasn't the dwarve's time to go! He searches the bowl hoping to find a few useful things...
On the ground (it must have been blown of the altar) Gilan finds the remains of a map... a part of it is burned by various fire spells that washed over it. It still marks the bowl and a line that leads away from it... Gilan observes the line trying to figure out where it leads to... Gilan knowledge geographie or survival, or knowledge of the Sargrass 12 Highlight to display spoiler: {you have the impression that it leads to Oddholme... this was most likely the map Horvis used to find the place where the Woldsblood was closest to the surface.} Gilan Int DC15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Suddenly it hits you... Horvis flew away in the direction the line shows... }
Like Flea, Vayine too mourns the death of his dwarven friend. He apologizes to Flea as if he's responsible for his death. But... wasn't it Yanosh who first jumped onto the tent and into the Bowl? Didn't Vayine follow him in knowing his friend would need help? If it wasn't for Vayine, Yanosh would have died sooner and perhaps someone else would have been killed too... no... the drow warrior did well...
Then the spirit of Yanosh frees himself from his woldly remains and hovers over his own body... he sees Flea kneeling over his body... he sees Vayine screaming that is spell failed...
The Dwarf wonder why his spirit isn't following the Woldsblood immediately. Is Gargul not welcoming him? Hasn't he pleased his God? Whispering to Flea he hopes she can hear his words but of course she can't. Perhaps the tingling feeling down Flea's spine tells her someone is looking over her shoulder but as she turns around there's no one there... perhaps she will sense in her heart that it is Yanosh who is standing behind her...
Araxo continues to work on the Woldsblood but apparently it's not so easy to close the leakage. The red bubbling liquid constantly appears in the brazier and more and more fumes rise out of it... It's obvious Araxo is struggling with the power of the Woldsblood.
(ooc I'm unable to continue the way I want for I am waiting for replies from the PTB... So I'm dragging a little... for some reason Araxo can't close the Woldsblood leakage yet...)
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer Wednesday July 16th, 2008 10:48:18 AM
Tishe' descends the ramp to the hole in the Sargrass. She gets more and more tense as Araxo continues to struggle with the whisps of red Woldsblood. She moves closer, coming to the base of the alter-like structure and tentatively puts out an arm. She looks to a manfri for help. "How can we help him? Can we give him some of our strength to continue to fight and seal in the Woldsblood?"
She looks around the bowl for someone to help. "Olaf! Didn't you say you were a Fixer?"
It takes a few minutes, but most of the magical enhancements for the battle fade within 10 minutes. Only the shimmering form of the Mage Armor and the greenish Antiplant Shell stays about Tishe'.
Spell Effects Mage Armor - Tishe': +4 AC, 7 hours Antiplant Shell - Tishe': animated plants will not come within 10 feet, 595 rounds
Spells Highlight to display spoiler: { HookCity Cantrip (being born in HookCity, Tishe and her sisters have a natural Cantrip they can cast once per day. Tishe's is 'Dye', where she can dye one finished garment any color or pattern by touch.)
Yanosh (Dead) Wednesday July 16th, 2008 1:01:29 PM
Looking over the Bloodpack Yanosh sees that they are continuing the work that brought them there. Pride fills him as he sees that the lose of him has not brought the 'Pack to a stop. Professional adventurers, they know that the job at hand in more important then one that fell in honorable combat.
Looking around the pit Yanosh can see that the Manfri are free and that the Woldsblood is being closed. A victory it was. Even without the death of Evil Horvis the 'Pack has won the day. Unless he is wrong he knows the 'Pack will not rest until Horvis is dead. They will hunt him down no matter where he runs.
Walking over to Ttrellus Yanosh looks the Cleric over. Placing a hand upon him "Trellus I am sorry I did not follow your plan. But I could not stand there and let Him continue to call forth things to fight us. He had to be dealt with directly. I only wanted to distract him so the pack could finish him. I am sorry."
Yanosh then moves to each member of the 'Pack and speaks to them. Tishe' he thanks for her kindness she has shown him.
Gilian though he did not know him much he speaks calming words in hopes that he does not feel responsible for his death.
To Gry he thanks for his courage and strength a brother Eye of Gargul.
To Olaf Yanosh places a hand on his shoulder and thanks for standing with him for traveling with him once the Ice Pack broke up.
To Vayine Yanosh thanks for his help in trying to save one foolish dwarf in the face of a Hydra. But who know he would turn into a Hydra. Yanosh was going to face a Giant. Dwarves are known for their hate of Giants.
And lastly he comes back to Flea. Kneeling behind her Yanosh wraps his ghostly arms around her hoping she can feel him. "Sweet Flea I am sorry to have pained you in such a way. I will always be as close to you as a memory. Bohdi spoke of your beauty but his words were not enough. For now I see what he meant. He spoke of the beauty of your heart."
With that Yanosh rises and walks to the bowl of Woldsblood. Looking into the bowl Yanosh feels it calling him.......
(OoC Sorry im not usually this long winded. Lol.)
Trellus(AC 22. HP 62/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement Wednesday July 16th, 2008 6:37:11 PM
Trellus walks down the ramp into the bowl, but stays well clear of Araxo and the Woldsblood. In fact, he stays well clear of everybody. The blond cleric wanders aimlessly around the pit wall for a few moments before dropping down, crosslegged, onto the ground. Resting his chin on his folded hands, he stares at the ground, occasionally moving his eyes upward to take in Flea and Yanosh.
The cleric's thoughts race.
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical) Haste, Prayer) Wednesday July 16th, 2008 8:15:46 PM
Vayine ponders ways to perhapes bargin for the life of his friend with the Grey God. After all, wasn't the pack working for him in a way....to seal the Woldsblood to prevent others from perverting its power. the Drow quitely contemplates the situation.
Gilan d20+3=17 ; Wednesday July 16th, 2008 8:55:48 PM
Gilan studies the map, though he is not good with geography and in fact he is not sure of the locations marked on the map...though he can hazard a guess that the one is their current location. With the map still in hand he shakes his head. "Anyone know anything about geography and maps?" Not knowing what the map is telling him he is not sure if his guess on what it might all mean though, especially from the direction that Horvis was traveling. He will wait for any of the others to have a look at it and then maybe give his hunch.
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2)*, meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk*, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Active Spells: extended longstrider, endure elements, greater magic fang
[Sorry, not trained in Knowledge(geography) and though I passed my INT check I am not sure if he would know anything. So I passed it off as a hunch but he did not say anything due to his lack of skills. :)]
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom, Invisible d20+5=19 Wednesday July 16th, 2008 11:12:41 PM
Flea starts to rock gently back and forth and in a high keening voice says farewell to her friend (Orate=19).
"Go your way to the Shadowlands, where Grey Eyed Gargul waits for you with open arms, there on the edge between this world and the next.
See; there he stands!
God of Life and Death, welcome this one to the place where we all must go."
Flea shivers slightly, and wraps her arms tighter around the corpse. Her actions belie her words. She isn't ready to give up her friend!
Time to seal the Woldsblood leakage... [ADM StevenVdB] Thursday July 17th, 2008 1:16:43 AM
Waiting for someone else to post...
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) Thursday July 17th, 2008 6:10:01 AM
Olaf looks to to Tishe, and responds, "No, I don't know 'bout fixin'. I know my friend's died...and that we're gonna have to take a look at closin' this thing." He can't seem to focus on the task at hand, instead spilling more tears on the ground in a silent grief.
The Lake That Should Not Be [ACDM Cayzle] Thursday July 17th, 2008 7:34:19 AM
[OOC: I assume that no one has come close to the exposed Woldsblood except the Manfri Fixer? I read back a week of the game, but I am not sure. If anyone comes within 50 feet of the pool, please make a Will save vs DC20 or be dazed until physically pulled away.
Following this logic, a careful observer will note that many small examples of wildlife (bugs, mice, and the Sargrass equivalents) are laying stunned in a ring around the pool ... and many of those are dead.]
Tishe sees that Araxo is struggling. His hands push against the thin wisps as if they were a gushing torrent -- as indeed, in some other plane of existence, they may be. She wishes there were some way to help him in his sacred task. But from the strain in his muscles, this may be beyond him.
As Trellus moves around, he feel uneasy. He is not surprised to feel the strain as he approaches the Woldsblood -- that stuff can pull a soul out of a body, he may have heard. But he feels a similar strain in his walking around the pit and the area in general ... and in some places he almost hears a lapping sound, as of waves on a very far away shore. In those places, he feels most disturbed.
Still focussed on the evil druid who has done so much harm, Trellus struggles with the map and thinks about pursuit.
But Flea and Olaf are beyond that. So consumed in their grief, they can only mourn, out loud or silently, each in their own way.
With elfish detachment, Vayine does not mourn, but worries and plans for a meeting that no one would relish -- the meeting with the lord of those who have died.
After Yanosh says his farewells, he turns to the pool. He wonders why he has not been drawn forward -- following the duty he knows, rather than any instinctive PULL that he should feel, he approaches the pool.
Well, perhaps fate has played a role here, for who but an Eye of Gargul could better understand what is happening here? Yanosh knows, from his training as a cleric of the God of Life and Death, what he SHOULD be seeing. Here on the near side of death, standing as a dead soul in the Realm of Shadow, he should be able to see the Wold Proper (the "Prime" and "Material," some theologians call it) in shades of grey. And superimposed on this grey landscape, as if a network of capillaries or an open weave of lace, he should see rivulets of Woldsblood that flow toward the afterlife.
As a dead spirit, Yanosh should feel drawn to those rivulets, and they should carry him to the Lands of Rest, just as the souls of the unborn swim upstream to their births. But that is not what he is seeing. Not at all.
To the mortals in the Wold, the Woldsblood is bubbling out at the altar from underground into a pool from which it quickly evaporates. Really, what is all the fuss? But Yanosh alone can now see the catastrophe that has been created. As a spirit, and as an Eye, he can see and understand what is going on.
The Woldsblood that "evaporates" is returning to the Realm of Shadows. But "returning" is hardly the right word. It is flooding the Realm! It has made a huge lake, where never a lake has been, where a lake must not be! The landscape is drowning, and what is worse, the rivulets that should lead to the Afterlife -- to the great Sea of Woldsblood that encircles the universe -- are not flowing! They are backed up and stalled.
Yanosh sees some extraordinary things. He sees the souls of dead creatures floating in this Woldsblood Lake. He sees sparks of unborn life floundering, stalled. At the edges of the Lake, he sees the liquid eating into the earth, soaking it, eroding a thin spot in the Wold Proper -- and he sees that, following some unconscious wisdom, not one of the Manfri or his still-living friends is standing where that lake edge is eroding the Wold (though Trellus for one has walked through those thin spots, only to back away).
Yanosh sees Araxo struggling. The Manfri clearly cannot see into the Realm, but he can evidently reach into it. It is an odd sight -- the Fixer as a grey shadow of himself, but with hands glowing dark read that Yanosh sees reaching into the gushing flow of Woldsblood as it enters the Realm of Shadows. Araxo is struggling to fix the breach and seal the flow, but Yanosh sees that it is a futile task. It is like trying to repair a huge breach in a ship's hull as the ocean pours in to sink it. The Fixer's hands push against the current, accomplishing next to nothing.
Trying to fulfill his duty, Yanosh enters the Lake of Woldsblood, but it is no good. He is not carried anywhere. He will not enter the afterlife this way. Flea is urging him in song to go to Gargul, but if he is to do so, it will not be by this path.
Araxo groans with his frustration. It is clear that he will not succeed on his own.
Yanosh (Dead) d20+5=12 ; d20+3=9 ; 2d8=8 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 9:58:29 AM
Walking behind the Manfri Yanosh steps 'Into' Araxo. Placing his hands upon/into Araxo's Yanosh wills the woldsblood back. back into the stram that it belongs. Back into the Shadowlands. "Gargul if You want this Dwarf give me the strength to close this rift. Help one that is humble to you. Help us Heal the Wold." With that thought Yanosh calls upon the tattoo on his left arm, the one for healing.
Will check 12 Str check 9 Heal 8 (just in case you wanted the roll)
(OoC this would be an aid other check too but not sure what to roll never done an aid other before.)
Trellus(AC 22. HP 62/88) Magic Vestment +3, Spell Resistance SR 23, Prayer, Haste, Freedom of Movement Thursday July 17th, 2008 4:17:24 PM
A pulling sensation washes over Trellus as he paces around the pit, and he looks at Araxo in alarm. The struggles of the manfri shaman don't ease the bad feeling he's getting. Putting the impeding discussion about Yanosh from his mind, he looks around for the only Eye of Gargul he trusts.
"Gry!" he calls out. "Something's wrong down here! Something with the Woldsblood!"
While still maintaining a healthy distance, the blond man takes a few steps toward Araxo. "How can we help?" he asks with concern.
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer d20+11=17 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 9:34:08 PM
Seeing Araxo struggle as he tries to deal with the Woldsblood. Instictively, she rushes forward intending to help, but stands as if poleaxed when she even gets close! (Will: 17)
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) d20+9=10 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 10:44:20 PM
[ooc: Olaf jumped to well within 10' of the Woldsblood during the fight. Guess he managed to not be stunned at the time. Making the will save now: nat 1 = 10, failed]
Once again overcome by the siren call of the Woldsblood, Olaf slumps to the ground in his grief, his invisible body curling up as tears continue to stream down his face. A small puddle forms from the tears, the only indicator of the young invisible man's location.
Gilan d20+16=34 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 10:56:16 PM
Gilan glances as the call goes out for help from Gry to deal with the Woldsblood, he swallows hard as this did not sound good. The fact that he had a hunch about Horvis did not make him feel any better and the fact that it might mean even more trouble is worse.
Without much thought he heads for Trellus and grabs his friends shoulder. "Trell...I think that we have another major problem." He holds out the map and then shakes his head. "I have a hunch on where Horvis has went but I know nothing of geography and could be wrong." Though he looks to the dias he cannot help but press the issue. "We need to know if what I suspect is right." With a shake of his head he is starting to really worry.
Glancing to Tishe' and Olaf he starts to move to them but he does not go very far as they look to be in no immediate danger. "Maybe Tishe'." He makes a decision and moves to her side and grabs her shoulder. He shakes off the pull of the Woldsblood and picks up his friend, carrying her away from the area.
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2)*, meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk*, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Active Spells: extended longstrider, endure elements, greater magic fang
Grymash (ac29, hp115. bless, owls wisdom, prot from evil, barkskin, bull strength, fly, enlarge person) d20+10=12 ; d20+10=18 ; Thursday July 17th, 2008 11:27:02 PM
Having spent his rage, the massive half-orc is reduced to a heavy-breathing mess, drenched in foamy sweat. With bloodshot eyes, he stares down. The sound of his name breaking his concentration on the skies. His exhaustion doesn't extinguish his anger. The bloodlust of combat remains unsatisfied. However, he comes when he is called. Grymash instantly finds out that flying down is much faster than the other direction. (double speed 120ft when moving down. Or double move, 240ft)
"Gry .. uhh, be here. Wha ... ummph, be need wit ... uhh, Gry?"
(Will save 12, hero point 18, I would have 20, IF woldsblood were evil. lol. sorry.)
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical), Prayer) d20+4=13 ; d20+4=17 ; d20+4=9 ; Friday July 18th, 2008 1:16:39 AM
Vayine moves to within range 50ft. of the stunned dwarf. Careful to stay in the safe zone. He ties a knot in his 50ft. rope and makes a lasso (I will roll a use rope to create the lasso, though I don't know the check skill required.) After tying the rope he throws it trying to catch the stunned dwarf to pull him to safety.
Skill to craft lasso=13 (please add +1 to the roll if prayer is still in effect) Skill to throw lasso over to the stunned dwarf (Olaf)=17 (Please add +1 for prayer if still in effect)
The Call For Help - Answered! [ACDM Cayzle] d100=76 ; Friday July 18th, 2008 12:09:15 PM
Trellus calls for Grymash and asks Aroxo (from a safe distance) what he can do to help.
Tishe, Olaf, and Grymash all move towards the pool of Woldsblood, hoping to help the Fixer (or maybe in answer to Trellus, for Grymash). But all three are overcome as the raw Woldsblood -- exposed in the Wold proper as it should not be -- tugs at their very souls. They stand (Tishe), or float (Grymash), or fall (Olaf) -- each one quite dazed.
Gilan walks forward, resists the pull from the Woldsblood, and carries Tishe to safety. After a moment, she comes to. The druid remains uneasy about Horvis and where he is headed.
Vayine cleverly tries to lasso Olaf and pull him to safety [OOC: Good thinking! Please accept a 200 xp award for the idea!]. But Olaf is invisible -- can Vayine see him? if not, he needs to roll a 50-50 miss chance ... and the DM rolls it for him at a 76! It works! Vayine manages to lasso and pull his friend out of the influence of the Woldsblood.
Aroxo calls out -- "Stay back! It is too dangerous for those who are untrained! I am trying to seal the breach, but the flow is so strong! Maybe if I were ---"
Then he interrupts himself with a shout! "HEY!"
For it is at this moment that the spirit of Yanosh tries to help the Fixer. He stands in the Realm of Shadows exactly in the place of the Fixer in the Wold. But when Yanosh moves to put his hands into-over-through-inside the Fixer's. Yanosh finds that he can touch and feel those hands! They exist in the Realm of Shadows just as much as they do in the Wold!
It is this touch -- the touch a dead person -- that makes Aroxo yell. Then he feels that the unknown other is trying to help him, to lend him strength. [OOC: This is a good idea too! Please accept a 200 xp award as well.] Who knows, maybe working together, Yanosh and Azoxo could have finished this job. But that question must remain a mystery, for the Eye of Gargul has stumbled on an even better answer: He prays!
Yanosh calls to his god, and that prayer wings out as fast as thought. And it is heard. [Take another 200 xp! Well done!] Gargul's ways are, as ever, hard to understand, and on this occasion he sends another to stand for him.
As from nowhere, You all see a strange figure appear. Like the Fixer's hands, the creature exists in both the Wold itself and in the Shadowlands, so everyone present can see it and hear it.
He is small skinny humanoid, maybe gnome size, colored bright yellow, with short horns and a barbed tail. Naked, genderless, and lacking a belly button, the creature looks around with a grin. But that grin fades fast, and is replaced with a frown.
If you make a Sense Motive check (or an untrained Wisdom check) vs DC15, then Highlight to display spoiler: {It seems clear to you that this is a face very unused to frowning!}
"What a mess! This is all wrong! Oh no! Oh my no! The Master is NOT going to be pleased! Oh, yes, someone is going to pay for this!"
"Who did this? You, dead man?" he points to Yanosh (everyone else sees him point to Aroxo, of course). "Hey! You're an Eye! So are you!" he points at Grymash. "Get down from there!" He flies over (as with a fly spell -- he has no wings) and tugs Grymash down.
"Hey you! Lem-Boy!" he points to the Fixer angrily. "Stop that and get over here!"
"Now someone had better tell me what is going on and Toot Sweet! Especially you Eyes! Shoot me the poop, already!"
Grymash Friday July 18th, 2008 1:07:11 PM
If Grymash is able to form the words, he will attempt to speak. "Yooz be da friend of da Master? Gry hear words told of yooz! Gry be fills wit honor. Forgives weak an lowly Gry. Weez da Blood comes here ta stop da treadle Horvis from makin' evil magik wit da Woldsblood. Weez fought an Gry fail ta kills da Horvis. Gry fail Yanosh. An Gry fail Lord Gargul. Gry too weak from madness ta help make Woldsblood right again. Pease forgive Gry." Grymash hangs his head in shame.
Trellus d20+8=11 ; d20+6=12 Friday July 18th, 2008 1:30:49 PM
Things are happening very fast. Trellus took the map from Gilan as the druid went forward to pull out Tishe. The blond cleric takes a quick glance at it, but other than noting its a map of the general area, he doesn't pay it much attention. [Survival 11, geez]
Gry gets stuck. Araxo yells. This horned dude pops into existance, gets Gry, tells Araxo to stop, and asks a bunch of questions. And Gry seems to think Horned Dude is tied into Gargul. [Sense Motive 12]
Trellus makes a decision, and from his position at the fringe of the pit, the cleric of Domi gives Horned Dude the short and sweet version -
"An ex-druid named Horvis is trying to bring Woldsblood into this plane, and is forcing the manfri to help. We came to stop him, rescue the manfri, and seal the, uh, gate or whatever. We fought. Horvis killed Yanosh and then escaped. Araxo (points to the manfri) is trying to stop the flow, but I don't think its working."
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical), Prayer) Friday July 18th, 2008 1:42:04 PM
Vayine claps the now freed dwarf on the shoulders. Glad to see that his idea payed off.
He is completely taken aback at the sudden appearance of a naked gnome amid the party, and standing uneffected by the woldsblood. he listens carefully drawing the same conclusion as Gry. This Thing works for Gargul. the thought flashes through his mind. but he stops himself. telling himself that the danger needs to be dealt with before attempting to bargin with the lord of the dead.
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) d20+9=19 ; Friday July 18th, 2008 6:46:56 PM
Yanked out of the pit by Vayine, Olaf slowly returns to his senses. "Wha...what happened?" He stops stammering when he takes in the sight of the small gnome in their midst. He concentrates, dismissing his invisibility, and looks more closely at the creature (sense motive 19). He wonders if this one is related in any way to the one who guided those of the Ice Vein to Gargul's domain before.
Turning to the gnome, he intones, "I'm thinkin'...I'm thinkin' that this is something seriously bad. Who is your master? Can you stop the Blood?"
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor, Shield, Prot v Electric, Owl's Wisdom, Antiplant Shell, Prayer Friday July 18th, 2008 10:01:44 PM
Stunned by the proximity to the Woldsblood, Tishe' sags heavily in Gilan's arms and tries to make sense of the funny yellow man.
"Huh?" she says intelligently.
Gilan Saturday July 19th, 2008 12:05:17 AM
Gilan is stunned for a few seconds as he holds Tishe' with the arrival of what would appear to be a genderless gnome or something of that sort into their area. He gives the creature the once over but since it is not attacking them he decides to let it go...that and the fact that Tishe''s exclamation starts him to thinking about what he is doing.
Turning several shades of red he hurriedly stands Tishe' up on her feet but does not let go of her till she is ready to stand on his own. That close of contact with her deepens his coloration and it is most noticeable in his ears. "I a...a...map." He cannot help but stammer till he is able to pull himself fully together and it might be a surprise that a man with the kind of power that Gilan has is knocked into senselessness by a woman.
Swallowing hard he tries to hide his lack of sense and though he is still red, he is able to get out full sentences at least. "Found a map...know anything about geography." He has no idea if a simple thing such as going over all the survival training he has would help out...so he does not even bother.
SPELLS 0th: detect magic(2), guidance(2), know direction(2) 1st: entangle(2), longstrider(2)*, detect snares and pits, pass without trace 2nd: barkskin(2)**, owl's wisdom(2), bull's strength(2) 3rd: greater magic fang(2)*, meld into stone, spike growth 4th: rusting grasp(2), air walk*, greater shillelagh 5th: commune with nature, transmute rock to mud, baleful polymorph
Active Spells: extended longstrider, endure elements, greater magic fang
Yanosh (Dead) Sunday July 20th, 2008 12:21:42 PM
seeing the strange gnome apear Yanosh thinks of the last time he saw one of the masters helpers. "Are you Gimp?" the cleric asks.
If it is or is not Yanosh hears him refer to Gargul as his Master. "I was trying to help seal the hole that the Woldsblood is coming through. Can you help? The Madfre was also trying to stop the flow from coming into the Wold. It is true an ex-druid called Evil Horvis opened the rift to the Woldsblood. He wants to use it for his own evil ends. Can you help heal the Wold and stop the flow of Woldsblood. it backs up into a lake and souls can not pass to the relam of shadows."
Yanosh waits to hear from his masters messenger.
ADM StevenVdB : Posting Record Game 10 Monday July 21st, 2008 4:46:21 AM
Posting Report for Game 10 for the week of July 14 - July 20
So many things happend all at once during the last few minutes of the Bloodpack. Yanosh got killed, Vayine barely escaped the same faith, Horvis escaped... And the rest of the Pack has no idea what to do with the woldsblood leakage. Araxo, spokesman of the Manfri and apparently a Fixer, is the only one able to come near the Woldsblood and attempts to put things straight... It turns out to be more difficult that he had hoped...
Then a bight yellow small skinny humanoid pops in... Gimp?!?
Game Speed = 100% / Player posts needed = 5
Clean Up! [ACDM Cayzle] Monday July 21st, 2008 5:48:49 PM
Although the yellow fellow is gnome sized, the short horns on his head and the barbed tail are clearly not like any gnome you've ever seen!
As he listens, it becomes clear that you all are trying to stop this problem, not create it. And he is recognized.
"Gimp! Gimp! Yes, that's me! Good work calling for help. No shame in that, Eyes of Gargul!" These words are directed toward Grymash and Yanosh, and seem reassuring.
"This is a clean up job for the likes of me, or maybe the likes of Dragons. You all have done just fine. Now let me clean up this mess!"
The grin is returning to his face, and he seems less serious than he did before.
"A little of this!" He gestures around and around with his hands, not in any way that spellcraft can explain. "A little of that." Bumps his butt against an invisible dance partner. "And a dash of tabascy!" His tail stabs at the heart of the pool of Woldsblood.
Immediately, the breach is closed (something only Yanosh and the Fixer can sense). The Woldsblood begins to bubble and boil, although there is no heat. Then, like a strance reverse rainstorm, drops of it start to fall UP! And soon the ground is dry, both in the Wold and in the Shadowlands.
Left behind are the souls of the dead and the unborn, flopping around like fish on dry land. Gimp reaches behind him and pulls out a broom. He starts swatting the souls -- some upstream to be born, some downstream to the afterlife. He turns to Yanosh and beats at him with the broom -- and Yanosh finds that he is back in his own body!
Gimp looks around with a satisfied smirk. He rubs his hands together as if knocking dust off them. (What happened to the broom?) He looks at Gry and Yanosh.
"Okay you two, you did your best, mad props and all for that, sure. Keep up on the devotionals, and keep your noses clean. Put 'er there." He holds out his hand for a shake.
"Now, seems to me that his druid fellow is bad news. Go take care of him. Probably that's a job you can do. And I sealed the breach, but there's a lake of Blood underground still, which is not cool. Not cool at all. But bigger noggins than mine will have to deal with that. Keep your Eyes open and pass word along if you find out anything about it."
"Okay, I got more fires to put out. Schedule to keep. I'm already three parsecs behind! Nice to meetcha all! By by!"
In a flicker, Gimp is gone.
[ACDM OOC: When Gimp shakes hands, it offers a great chance to do some desired character surgery. Did I hear Yanosh wants to trade a couple fighter levels for cleric levels or something? E-mail me (cayzle@cayzle.com) and we'll get that set right quick. Anyway, that's it for me. Thanks for the pleasure of being your DM for a few posts!]
Gilan Monday July 21st, 2008 7:20:28 PM
Gilan is at a loss as the small creature goes about closing a rift in the fabric of the universe. With a shake of his head he snorts. "I would say that it was a great call on your parts to seek out Gargul's assistance." Tilting his head to the side he wonders if any of the rest of them would have been able to do the same if they had asked. Then again most of them did not really understand the dangers, he sure did not.
With a little bit of a sheepish grin he moves forward but only after a couple of the others...most likely Grymash or the newly restored Yanosh, to shake Gimp's hand. "Thanks for saving us Gimp." For some reason he suspects that they all might have been looking at something fatal if that pool had not been shut off. Though he knows what Gargul said about the tears and his not taking them he did not want to wander as a lost spirit or find that he was immortal in any sense of the word. "Let Gargul know that I am sorry for my words when we last met...a druid should know better. He has graced us with a gift that I hope we can live to pay back to him someday." He is not sure if he is getting the words right but they feel right to him. For so long he has felt that he offended the God of Life and Death, he had been selfish with his thoughts and actions.
He steps away and tries to keep his body actions as if he knew what he was doing all along. There are still a lot of emotional wars going on inside his head and heart...but at least he has a chance to say his peace and know that Gargul will get the message.
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom, Invisible d20-1=7 ; Monday July 21st, 2008 7:47:12 PM
Flea can discern little of the creature's motives when he frowns, but she surely recognizes him from previous visits to Gargul. The creature seems to be the right-hand of the god of life and death.
Still on her knees, with the head of the dwarf's corpse in her hands, Flea looks from Gimp to Araxo.
Her eyes return to the corpse.
"Yanosh?" she enquire's tentatively.
Grymash Monday July 21st, 2008 9:41:01 PM
Grymash's dumbfounded expression, revealed by a slacking jaw and large wide eyes, follows the little demigod's magical performance. It looked so incredibly easy for him. Like it was fun!? The scene perplexed him so much so that he even forgot that Yanosh was slain. It didn't surprise him to see Yanosh was back in the flesh. All the shame he felt was also forgotten. He just stood there, stunned by it all. When Gimp holds out his hand, Gry's petrified arm comes to life again and he shakes it. He even was able to form a few words, "uhhhhh... thanks yooz!" So much power, it was indescribable.
After Gimp disappears, Grymash feels a strange compulsion. "hee hee," chuckles Grymash. "hee hee ha ha HAA HAA!" Grymash, a half-orc not known for his sense of humor, bursts into laughter uncontrollably. Its not for several minutes until his laughter begins to calm. "It be gute day ta be alive ... Do It?! Hee hee hee haw haw haw haaww haww!!" He gives Yanosh a celebratory slap on the back. As he continues on laughing. With his eyes filling with tears does Grymash finally start to calm back down again. "Dis place be sacred holy now. Let there be Altar ta Gargul on dis spot. Lets git rocks ta build wit!"
Tishe [Sub MikeK] Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 8:27:06 AM
With eyes as big as saucers, Tishe watches the performance of the imp. Just like that, he's gone. The small woman tries to take in what she just witnessed, and fails miserably. She takes a step toward Grymash, quickly changes her mind and steps toward Araxo. Changing her mind again, she stops and looks over at Trellus. Once more she stops.
"Oh piggie dumps!" she exclaims, and runs to Yanosh, enfolding the dwarf in a bear hug. "Welcome back, Yanosh!" she cries happily.
Trellus Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 8:34:33 AM
For several moments after Gimp's departure, Trellus can only stare, open mouthed, at the spot the imp previously occupied.
"Light," he finally breathes. "That was some waxed pick, wasn't it?"
Apparently it was, for its only now the cleric notices the rest of his pack is having quite a bit of trouble processing the events of the last few minutes - Yanosh is alive, the breach has been blocked - heck, Grymash is LAUGHING - its a banner day all around.
The half-orc calls for an altar to be built, and Trellus sees no reason to gainsay him. "Go ahead," he agrees. "I wanna take a look at Yanosh for a minute, though." The blond man strides over to the crowd around the dwarf, and tries to get in view enough to see if he's got any visible wounds or anything.
Yanosh Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 10:28:53 AM
Watching Gimp do his little dance and seal the Woldsblood Breach Yanosh smirks slightly untill he is beaten with the broom. Swept back in to his body............
........with a loud gasp Yanosh's eyes open. "Flea? I am ok. Thank you."
Standing Yanosh is nearly pounded back to the ground by Grymash. Before he can fully recover form that Tishe' Grabs him in a bear hug. Yanosh barely get to shake Gimps hand before he leaves.
When Trellus looks Yanosh over he sees that something is different. His eyes are Grey now and not Blue. His skin tone has gone a pastey color. Even his facial hair is now Grey. The smell of death hangs around him or is that from the blood caked on him from his wounds. Yes something has changed but it is more then just physical.
"Yes Brother Gry this is Sacred ground now. and an alter should be here. But more then that. This ground is still close to the Woldsblood and must be protected. But how do we do that so far from our home?"
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical), Prayer) Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 10:33:55 AM
Vayine is stunned and shocked by the bald naked humaniod, but seems much more at easy when it leaves. He offers his hand to the dwarf in a warriors salute. "Welcome home brother" with that the drow walks after Gry looking for some rocks to help build an alter.
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 3:07:46 PM
Olaf smiles at his old friend, stamps the ground, and spits to the side. After the others have said their thanks for his safe return, the young blonde man walks over, claps the dwarf on the back, and says, "Good ta see ya 'gain, Yanosh. Luck be with you, my friend."
Thinking now to the veritable lake below their feet, the potential for disaster high, Olaf does not know what to do. He think's Gry's idea is a good one, and turns to help Vayine find some rocks. Muttering under his breath, he seems to be calling for the forgiveness of Celsiun and the Vein for helping in this task.
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom d20-1=14 ; Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 9:53:48 PM
The eyes flutter open, but where they were once the blue of the sky above, they are now grey.
Flea witnesses the dwarf's rebirth as Yanosh jumps up, and is engulfed by others from the pack.
the rogue struggle, trying to understand (Sense Motive=14). Flea remains on her knees, on the ground, the blood of Yanosh still on her hands, and watches.
Aroxo Speaks (DM JohnP) Tuesday July 22nd, 2008 10:47:09 PM DM JohnP - Ummm, ya .... I was supposed to post last night, wasn't I? I guess that it is time to get back in the saddle.
The manfri stirs on the dais where he has been slumped since the arrival of Gimp the Imp. Aroxo pushes himself to his feet while he looks around at the damage caused by Horvis and the eruption of Woldsblood into the Sargrass. While some members of the Bloodpack begin to gather materials to build a shrine to Gargul, the Fixer moves back to where the other injured Manfri are standing. Once he has tended the injured, Aroxo approaches the Bloodpack. Nodding to each of them, Aroxo drops to his knees before Yanosh.
"You honour the Manfri and the Sargrass. You risked much in your attempt to assist me and it may have been enough. Still, the Wold is patched and you have been returned. With a new mission, perhaps."
"This place will always be a weak point in the Sargrass, ripe for exploitation like some other places. Although tapping the Woldsblood here may have affected the flow and level of Woldsblood in those other places. Which may discomfit some but may turn the Sargrass back to its destined Path."
"My people would stay here, fulfilling our ancestral duty to keep the Sargrass on its Path. My path was set by my forefathers, to maintain and repair the barrier between the Wold and the Woldsblood. Your shrine is fitting and we would maintain it. And you, and yours, are always welcome as well."
"In fact, I wish to thank you and offer aid. Do any of you still require healing? Or any of your items require repair or recharging?"
Grymash Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 12:34:04 AM
Hearing Aroxo's offer of aid, Grymash makes a quick check over his body. In amazement, he can find no wounds. Not a single scratch. "Dat be uh first!!"
He continues lifting the heaviest of stones he can find while he is enlarged. Shouldn't be long before they have a wealth of stone to work with. Maybe if some of the clan have stone shaping magic, they would make this altar very nice indeed.
Yanosh Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 9:10:44 AM
"Araxo rise. I am not one to kneel before. I am a simple Dwarf. I am sure we have wands and rods that will need recharging. To have the Manfri here to protect the Woldsblood and the Alter is most welcomed."
Turning to Flea the Cleric looks down at her. In a voice uncharacteristically soft, "Flea, rise my dear. I am still Yanosh from the Ice Vein." Holding out a hand Yanosh will help her to her feet. "Thank you my sweet Flea. For all you have done for one who was so alone."
Trellus Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 10:16:20 AM
Trellus is as non-plussed as Yanosh when Araxo drops to his knees, and is relieved when the dwarf - something is definitely changed there - helps the manfri up.
The "recharging" comment causes the cleric to look sharply over at Gilan. Rubbing the back of his neck reflexively, Trellus does some quick thinking, as he wonders if its even fair to bring it up. He grins slightly at the druid, "well, he asked."
Trellus removes his dark red surcoat and the mithril chainmail underneath. Now stripped to the waist, the fist sized ruby embedded in the middle of his chest is plain to see. "We call it a Dragon Tear," he tells Araxo. "We were given them by Grandmaw, a bronze dragon we helped - well, its a long story. Anyway, we got 'em - Gilan an Gry an Tishe an Flea an me and some other dudes who ain't with us any longer." Trellus cocks an eyebrow at Vayine, a silent question as the man can't remember if the drow has one or not. He continues his description to Araxo.
"Anyway, they allowed us to sense each other, send a short message to each other, even use our own strength to heal each other." His face is radiant as he recalls the feeling, then falls. "But then we saw Gargul, asking for Ulgren to be returned from the dead, and made him upset. We think he turned the Tears off, on some of us anyway. Gry and Tishe still work, but me an Flea and Gilan don't."
Trellus looks hopefully at Araxo. "Whaddya think? Can you turn it back on?"
[OOC - See Trellus' character sheet - non functional Tear of the Dragon for item description]
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical), Prayer) Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 1:03:55 PM
Vayine looks to Trellus and places his plam using his fingers to trace the outline of the jewel that is hidden beneath his armor, then to tell the cleric that it works he nods his head softly. After the others finish speaking Vayine looks to Araxo. " I would be honored and most thankful sir, if you would tend to my wounds. I've managed to stop the bleeding but I lack the needed powers to heal myself any further."
Tishe (sub MikeK) Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 4:48:44 PM
Tishe bounds up from Yanosh, diverted by this exciting new prospect?
"You can make the Tears work!" she exclaims happily, as if the deed were already done. "We will be a true Pack again!"
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 5:44:35 PM
Flea's hands start to reach for wands, but then Trellus' says his bit, and the rogue stops. Her pale eyes shine, and her face glows rosy with the prospect, and she unlaces the top of her tunic, letting the fabric call open over the cold gem.
"Oh, yes!" she sighs aloud, "Please! If you can. Make the Tears work again!"
Examination of the Tears (DM JohnP) Wednesday July 23rd, 2008 10:41:15 PM
Aroxo motions Trellus closer so that the manfri can examine the Tear. The Fixer's long, delicate fingers glide over the surface of the gem while he peers into the depths of the crystal. The Bloodpack watch intently, hoping against hope that the Fixer may be able to repair the Tears so that they function again. Unfortunately, the manfri steps back and slowly shakes his head.
"It is beyond my power. I can repair magic items but artifacts such as this are at the very limits of what I may do. And, there is the touch of a God of the Wold upon it."
Aroxo looks up at the Bloodpack, gauging their reaction to his news.
"However, I didn't say that the Tear could not be fixed. I simply cannot do so. But if you have other things for me, I can do what I can."
Yanosh Thursday July 24th, 2008 8:48:40 AM
While Araxo examins the Dragon tears Yanosh busies himself with collecting his gear. Shouldering his Axe and picking up his fallen shield. Looking over his shield he sees that he will have to repaint it to remove the teeth marks left by Horvis. Fingering the marks, Yanosh then fingers the holes in his armor.
Walking sullenly away from the rest, Yanosh reflects on what happened....
Trellus Thursday July 24th, 2008 3:35:34 PM
With a sigh, Trellus' face falls in resigned acceptance of his fate. Touch of a god, he mentally snarls sarcasticly. Well I wonder who THAT could be?
The cleric watches Gry build his monument for a moment, and sighs again.
Turning to Araxo, he pulls out a couple wands. "Well, I got these," he says, not expecting much.
Vayine AC26 HP 14/82 (endure elements, Resist energy (electrical), Prayer) Thursday July 24th, 2008 3:46:58 PM
Vayine watches Yanosh walk away. He knows the dwarf needs time alone to reflect, and that the dwarf will return after he is ready. until then the drow stands patiently awaiting his healing
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) Thursday July 24th, 2008 4:24:16 PM
Olaf shoulders forward to Aroxo, asking, "hey now, well, if you've got a fixin' hand, I know one thing that could use some fixin'. Ya see, I lost my luck, a while 'go. Well, traded it, really, my bad luck to a witch that thought bad luck was worth somethin'. I've been luck-free for a while now. Any chance ya could put some normal chance back inta me?"
Tishe Thursday July 24th, 2008 9:04:32 PM
Seeing Trellus pull out the two wands, Tishe lets out a small "Oh!"
Quickly she grabs her staff, and thrusts it at Araxo, his failure with the Tears all but forgotten.
OOC - Staff of Frost (7 charges)
Flea (AC 21, 62 HP) Haste, Bless, Owl's Wisdom Thursday July 24th, 2008 9:59:43 PM
Flea can barely see through the tears of frustration and disappointment. She feels for her wands and lays them at the feet of the Manfri.
1 - wand of Magic Missile 30/50 charges (20 used) 1 - wand of cure Light Wounds 27 /50 charges
Charging (DM JohnP) 4d8+12=33 ; Thursday July 24th, 2008 10:49:47 PM
Aroxo remembers that Vayine has asked for healing. The Fixer moves to the drow and mutters a prayer to Alemi before reaching out to heal the fighter. Vayine feels a rush of magical energy enter his body and most of his wounds close. Vayine healed for 33 hps
The Fixer then bends to gather up the magical items that the Bloodpack have requested to have re-charged. It takes the Manfri several tries to hold all of the wands and the staff as well.
"If you don't mind, I'll do this here. The ... thinning ... of the barrier between the Wold and Woldsblood should make it easier for me to perform this. But it will take time, so why not make camp somewhere close by, but not too close."
After saying this, Aroxo staggers to where the other Manfri have been weaving what look to be temporary grass shelters. He carefully places the magical items on the ground and then smoothly folds himself into a meditative posture. Anyone who cares to watch will see the Fixer using a small holy item on a cord around his neck and a larger object from his pouch. Aroxo trickles a small flow of Woldsblood unto his hands while praying over each object. From time to time, Aroxo's hands glow and he seems to be pulling or drawing some of the mystical Woldsblood into the container. This process is slower since the Fixer is working extremely carefully. He was correct, too, about how long it would take to complete all of the items. In fact, camping seems like a very good idea.
During the night, Aroxo continues to work. The glowing Woldsblood casts strangely shifting shadows around the clearing. Clouds of night-flying insects are drawn to light and it isn't long before the twittering sounds of bats can be heard by whoever is on watch. Sometime, during the middle of the night, Aroxo finishes and lays the items aside before reclining.
When the sun rises above the grass, Aroxo approaches the Bloodpack with all of the items in his arms. It's difficult to tell anything from his alien features, but Aroxo seems to be smiling at the party.
"Everything is re-charged, ready for use in the protection of the Sargrass and the Wold. Please do not abuse the gift that I have channeled from Alemi and the Wold."
"Before you head back to your dwelling place, remember that you shall always be welcome here. My kin will be continually guarding this place until it is returned to the former state. Doing so is necessary for the Sargrass to return to the original Path, and my children will maybe see the end of that journey."
"All of you have chosen, and been chosen for, a difficult path. Right now, that path follows that of the Sargrass. In fact, your path may be leading the Sargrass. Please don't set the Path back to it's start, or my kin's work will have been for naught."
"Do you have any questions before you go?"
All magical items submitted to Aroxo are now fully charged. Please update your character sheets accordingly.
For that matter, did Stephen award any experience while I was gone?
Yanosh Friday July 25th, 2008 10:06:49 AM
....Walking over to the burned tent Yanosh looks up at the rim of the hole. His eyes seem to follow the path he took as he leaped into the hole. Shaking his head Yanosh turns and walks back to the 'Pack.
Yanosh helps Gry with fitting some of the stones for the Alter. Then finds a place to lay down for the night. At midnight Yanosh silently prays at the Alter Gry has been making. His prayers are quiet and barely audible mutterings to anyone else. Once finished Yanosh returns to his beedroll.
In the morninng Yanosh is once again found at the Alter praying as the dawn brightens the sky. When finished Yanosh collects his meager things and packs his backpack. With a quick gesture and a slight prayer Yanosh casts Endure Elements on himself.
Highlight to display spoiler: { Spell list pending Dm approval of new CS }
Vayine Friday July 25th, 2008 11:33:37 AM
Vayine streches after waking from his reverie. his body is still sore but his tattoo will fix most of that. it takes a few moments for the Drow to realize how hot the plains feel and he activates the white swirling tattoo on his right arm. within moments the air around him feels more comfortable.
The Drow listens to the Manfri then wanders towards the edge of the camp and begins whirling his blade in an intricate pattern he learned long ago, his body twists and spins as he works his way through his combat exercises.
After his morning practice, the Drow wanders over to his pack and gathers his belongings and moves to stand next to Yanosh.
Vayine hp 47/82 AC 26 (illegal post) Friday July 25th, 2008 11:35:01 AM
Sorry I will endevor to figure out what is wrong with my link. until then I will keep my HP and AC posted.
Need a space between link and href at the beginning. I took care of it - MikeK
Aroxo is Waiting (DM JohnP) Friday July 25th, 2008 11:47:26 PM
Aroxo waits for the Bloodpack to ask questions. In fact, he provides some verbal prompting.
"Are you curious about nothing that has happened?"
Tishe (sub MikeK) Saturday July 26th, 2008 10:03:15 AM
Tishe is curious about everything. So much so, that while her mind bounces from question to question, she doesn't even speak. Araxo's prompting opens the dam.
"How did you do that?" she asks, taking back the staff. "You all are leaving your home to come here? Why? What will the monks at Rattledam say?" "Do you know where Horvis is now? Should we go stop him?" "What is going to happen here, with this underground lake of Woldsblood? How are you going to clean it up?" "Who was that small guy talking to you? How did he stop the Woldsblood?" "What was Horvis trying to do with your packmates?" "What will he try next?"
And finally,
"What happened to Yanosh?"
Trellus Saturday July 26th, 2008 10:08:06 AM
The blond cleric takes back his two wands with a look of wonder. "Dude. Many shadows," he thanks the manfri shaman.
At that point, Tishe opens up, and Trellus marvels at her ability to get through all that without so much as breathing.
"Uh, what she said," he remarks, a slight grin on his face. An idea strikes, "Oh, we all are trying to set up a base....you probably know that...um, anyway. If you run across any dudes that want a safe place to live, without going to Rattledam to do it, we'd be happy to offer up Oddholme as an alternative."
OOC - No. Steven did not award experience.
DM Announcement (JohnP) Saturday July 26th, 2008 11:09:21 PM
Post tomorrow night.
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) Sunday July 27th, 2008 6:16:34 PM
Olaf focuses on the Manfri, thinking hard on the strange events of the past few hours. To Aroxo he asks, "so, beyond evil Horvis, who we're gonna be trackin', what else's gonna have ta be done to deal with this lake o' woldsblood? I'm thinkin' just leaving it here's a bad idea. Any thoughts on that?"
Answers from the Manfri (DM JohnP) Sunday July 27th, 2008 11:37:42 PM
Aroxo pauses before answering the barrage of questions from the Bloodpack, particularly from Tishe'. IN fact, he seems to be committing the questions to memory so that he can respond to them.
"So many questions, so this will take some time. I'll try to answer them to the best of my ability, though perhaps not in the sequence that you asked. However, there are some things that I do not know. In that case, I may be able to tell you how to geet answers if you truly want them."
Gesturing towards the staff held by the theurge, Aroxo nods and smiles.
"I am a Fixer. In every generation, in every clan, there is one Fixer devoted to Alemi. Among the small boons granted to us is the ability to re-charge items such as that. Normally we use that to aid our clans in their tasks in the care and progress of the Sargrass but sometimes we use the gift to aid others who have protected the Sargrass."
"The Sargrass is our home. Usually we wander, following the ebb and flow of the Woldsblood. Sometimes we settle if there is something requiring our continued attention. Over time, with our attention, the flow of Woldsblood will settle into new channels and this 'lake' will drain away. Or, perhaps, it will remain. In which case, we shall guard it against those who would misuse it, as Horvis attempted."
"As for Rattledam, we do not care what they think. Perhaps, this upwelling of the Woldsblood here may be sufficient to either keep them away or cause them to move away.
"I suspect that Horvis is returning to the Land where he came from. In which case, you should return to the place that you have taken to calling Oddholme. You have stopped him in this plot, so he may be retreating or simply going back to re-group."
"As for my companions, we Manfri have a deep connection to the Woldsblood. Those not trained in handling it, like myself, are suscpetible to being changed. I suspect that Horvis wanted to create servants to aid him in his plot."
"Ask your companions, since I believe that they recognized Gimp the Imp."
"Your companion was slain, wasn't he? So close to an open source of Woldsblood, his soul was drawn in and he attempted to assist my attempt to close to the rift. Gimp was sent in reply to his effort."
Turning to Trellus, Aroxo continues to speak.
"I suspect that you may be getting many requests for shelter from Rattledam. If you have family or friends there, I suggest that you meet with them."
Finally, Aroxo turns to Olaf.
"I cannot tell who else you might be tracking. As for Woldsblood, that is for my clan to deal with. We shall see what the Sargrass does with it."
DM Announcement - Experience award tomorrow night after I do some calculations.
Tishe' (AC 24 HP 61/61) Mage Armor d20+4=22 ; d20+4=19 ; Monday July 28th, 2008 10:04:04 AM
ooc: In the morning, Tishe' studies for three Stoneshape spells, and assists in creating the alter to Gargul and Alemi. Her first task is to shape the stones so they look natural and seem just a pile of stones on the outside, but inside the cairn that Grymash stacked, she shapes the stones together so it is one solid pillar. The second spell shapes the top-most stone into an all-seeing Eye, one side being lidless and the other side with lids, "to represent both aspects of Gargul and Gargulus that are worshiped by some peoples on the Sargrass", she explains (Craft:stonework:unskilled: 22) The third spell carves the High Woldian symbols of Gargul and Alemi in the four primary directions of the cairn. At the base of the cairn, a dancing line of shapes that resemble manfri and Gimp the Imp complete her work.(Craft:stonework:unskilled: 19) "For the Woldsblood responds to Gargul and Alemi both, and guarded by the manfri." Satisfied, she turns to other thoughts.
There is a LOT of information in the speech by Araxo, and it takes a couple seconds to take it all in. But then her eyes open wide in concern. "Oddholme!" "Our friends are there! We have to get there fast!"
Yanosh Monday July 28th, 2008 12:35:34 PM
"If Evil Horvis is headed to OddhHolme then those left there could be in grave danger." Yanosh states flatly. Turning to Trellus, "We must get back to help them, if it is not to late."
Grymash Monday July 28th, 2008 3:50:16 PM
Seeing Tishe's spellcraft and handy work, the large half-orc is almost hopping with glee. So much so that he plants a big wet one on her cheek. Shocked by his own reaction, he steps back and apologizes for his inability to restrain himself. "Dat look much shady!! Thanks, Tishe! Now there be one things left ta do." Grymash takes out his holy book of Gargul and thumbs through a few pages. He quickly finds the passage where he had marked from the previous night. "Trellus, me need ya help heres. Da book reads of uh ways ta make da land Hallow. But Gry no given da gift ta do uh Hallowin'. Can Trellus help?"
(Hallow is a 5th level spell. Gry will subtract a 1000g from his character sheet to provide the material components. Should be plenty of components left behind from Horvis performing his magics. :)
Grymash Monday July 28th, 2008 3:55:37 PM
On second thought, making Oddholme hallowed would be a good idea too, Gry thinks to himself. "Ya know, makin Oddholme hallow be uh gute idea toos!!"
Trellus Monday July 28th, 2008 4:19:00 PM
Early morning - Tishe creates the cairn and Grymash asks about the Hallow spell. Trellus can only grin and nod. If his packmate wants a spell, then fine. Once the components are all assembled, the blond cleric casts the spell, fixing a spell effect of Bless attached to followers of Gargul.
OOC - Hoping we get away with all that as its mostly role play.
Later, the cleric realizes with horror that Horvis is heading for Oddholme. Naturally, he's got no spells currently memorized to help get anyone to their home any faster. "Tomorrow morning, I can send a message to Murdock," he says dubiously. "But until then..."
The blond man glances at Horvis. "I don't suppose you can zap us to Oddholme", he asks.
Assuming the manfri can't. Trellus rises to his feet. "'Kay dudes, it ain't getting any closer. Let's start walking and discuss ideas on the way." He starts marching toward his very recently acquired home, hoping his friends there will stay safe.
OOC - How many day's walk is it to Oddholme from here?
Flea Monday July 28th, 2008 5:22:08 PM
Flea doesn't sleep particularly well, their camp being in proximity to the crater and all. Aroxo and the manfri group seem too...small...to provide sufficient protection against the likes Horvis, who might want to further undermine the vulnerable spot. The rogue has a zillion questions, and then the fixer opens the door, and Tishe' wedges her foot on the treshold.
Collecting up her wands, Flea gets a grim look of determination on her face. "There's a portal there that he uses! We've got to seal it up!"
As she gets ready to head out to the packs new found dome, she asks the manfri fixer, "you going to be okay here? You need us to come back, after?"
Olaf (hp 35/50, AC 27, resist energy, bless, haste, invisible) Monday July 28th, 2008 9:39:38 PM
Olaf is mightly confused by Aroxo's parting comments. Realizing that'll likely be his lot, he resigns himself to helping as he can with his meager skills and main ignorance of the Sargrass. Ruefully sighing, he silently prepares to march.
Vayine hp 57/82 AC 26 (illegal post) d8=5 ; d8=5 ; Monday July 28th, 2008 9:55:37 PM
Vayine urges his tattoo to activate. His arm glows blue as the healing magic awakens. Placing his coal black hands on the worst of his injuries he forces the magic to patch the wounds.
Charge one heals 5 damage Charge two heals 5 damage
with talk of returning to Oddholme Vayine looks up. It seems like a good idea to check on the others and tell them of what occured in Rattledam.
Parting Gifts (DM JohnP) Tuesday July 29th, 2008 12:20:34 AM
Tishe', Grymash and Trellus work together to complete the shrine to Gargul. When the work is completed, it's well-crafted and sure to survive for some time. And, even more, it is protected from various evil magics. Even though the Manfri may not worship Gargul, they may make use of it.
As people consider the words of Aroxo, Flea realizes that Oddholme may be in danger. That prompts Trellus to suggest starting on the journey back. Based on the trip here, it would probably take two or three days to walk back through the grass. Flying, as Horvis was when he left, would take considerably less time. Unless something happened, it is very likely that Horvis has already arrived back at Oddholme. Still, it is probably time to set out.
As the Bloodpack gather their things, Aroxo comes forward and hands a leather bag to each member of the Bloodpack.
"Some items and things that my clan has no use for."
Moving through the Sargrass is a repetitive, monotonous task. Step ... stumble ... keep moving ... ignore the insects ... don't think about water ... or the heat ... just keep going.
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