Winterglade Wednesday September 24th, 2008 6:12:41 AM
Winterglade tags along, painfully aware that he is leaving a trail of mud and water on the floor. He blows out the candle when asked to and absent-mindedly picks up a small gob of wax that he starts to twiddle in his fingers in a nervous way.
"We are a group known as the Chosen of Domi." - says the centaur as an introduction. "We were passing through, but got involved in the current problems of Fort Stag. From what we learned the populace is not aware that they are standing at the top of a cliff and are preparing to make a big step forward tomorrow."
"There have been many murders recently, some of which we even witnessed. What we care for the most is that the guilty of the crimes that have been committed are brought to justice and the Fort is in hands of somebody who will really care for its people."
"What we really could use" - the cleric says, throwing away the drop of wax - "is truth. You seem to wield power, so one can hope you might have had a bit more insight into what happened here before our arrival than a common taur did. If there is any information you could share with us that could help us in our work it would be most appreciated. Starting, maybe, with as much as you are willing to tell us about who you are?"
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=19 ; Wednesday September 24th, 2008 12:17:49 PM
Listening. Spot 19
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday September 24th, 2008 8:22:51 PM
The ranger, unsure and vigilant, remains at the rear of the party keeping watch.
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+6=22 ; Wednesday September 24th, 2008 10:50:44 PM
With Brahmah holding the tail, Mac moves forward with Goodbarrel, and also keeps an eye open. Spot Check: 22
The truth be told/DM Buzz Thursday September 25th, 2008 12:30:48 AM
Taking up various positions in the house, the group moves forward out of the rain, Winterglade almost feels guilty at the mess left behind. After extinguishing the small dancing flame, he walks forward introducing the group. He relates a violent past the group was intimately involved in, then asks some questions.
Theorex stays toward the rear with Brahmah near the still open front door. Please relocate yourself to a different area of the house if you desire.
Brahmah stands near the intersection of the front rooms, able to keep an eye on the stairs and balcony from that position.
Mac stays near Brahmah and Theorex
She remains with her back to those that can see her, "I must apologize, but I must be very forward when I say, I can tell you nothing of myself at this time, for reasons that you may understand later, but not now. I can answer truthfully all your questions though and I can elaborate further, once on any subject" She turns to face you and her image is one of near perfection. It is odd really, that a person could be so attractive. "As to your first question about truth, I can tell you Blackmaine and Herkamer are both part of a sect named "Hands of "Love". They hold special sway over those that are friendly with them."
All note, there are no descriptions for these abilities listed under Caeroldra. Jerry gave me permission to install some. Please consider these only temporary until approved and this is a game test for them. Feedback through email is appreciated.
The gorgeous wemic rests by lying on the wood floor, her paws crossed over each other, back legs crouched under her. Her long slender arms rest gently in front of her, fingers entwined. Her words almost a song. She has a way with words that this unworthy writer could only vaguely project, so I will be direct to avoid confusion. "From what I understand, they each have the supernatural ability called Contagious Charisma. By using twice their charisma modifier, they can find a "True Friend". These true friends are completely loyal to the Hand of Love in so far as their life is not in danger. This is a voluntary action on the part of the True Friend and only those that would normally like the Hand of Love are eligible. Furthermore, each True Friend can brag about their benefactor and gather additional friends equal to twice the Hand of Loves charisma modifier, each. If for any reason the Hand of Love does something against the morals of his True Friends in their presence, he will immediately lose that True Friend as well as the friends that person brought into the circle."
"I know they have more abilities, but I have yet to discover them." She blinks her long dark lashes at the group, "What else would you like to know?"
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+23=40 ; Thursday September 25th, 2008 12:32:07 AM
Winterglade speaks for Zeoll, but the liontaur has a few words to add.
"Blackmaine, I think, has been planning this forr a long time. He is cold and calculating. I think that where his hearrt was, now grrows only ice and dead wood. I think that underr his rrule, judging from the so-called laws he has already set up, this place will become a deadly and cold."
"We hope that you can help us avoid that. We hope you can give us the evidence of Blackmaine's cold-blooded murders, that we need to stop his rise to powerr." The emotion and passion in Zeoll's voice is clear.
Diplomacy 40.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Thursday September 25th, 2008 12:32:32 AM
Darn! Missed by two minutes!
Winterglade Thursday September 25th, 2008 8:47:09 AM
"Oh." - The centaur starts thinking, scratching his head where his mane used to be before Herkamer burned it off. "Do you think it is some kind of mind control? Or does this effect merely enhance their own people's skills? Goodbarrel wonders if a Protection from Evil would break the charm, hmm."
"We were wondering if there were more sinister forces at play here. We encountered undead and flesh golems under the city and pondered if there were their doing, also. Would you have any knowledge about that?"
The centaur continues to list the things that have been puzzilng him. There are rethorical questions really, but after each one he waits to see if the stranger wishes to offer some of her own thoughts.
"They must have removed Belwinks for obvious reasons, but why his heart was removed from his body? Would they use it in some kind of ritual, or was it just to prevent bringing him back? "
"And where did Hollyhocks go?"
"Would Malica be in league with them, or merely trying to jump on the wagon to power?"
The centaur stomps his hoof absent-mindedly. "Herkamer is a constant danger. For all we know he might be standing now next to us, listening to everything we say. A complicated thing, and we have but one night to sort it out."
"Blackmaine seems to be too smart and level-headed to be provoked into losing control over the crowd by some impulsive act. He also proved earlier today that he is very good at thinking on his toes."
"They would be stupid not to cover their tracks well. It is doubtful if we can find anything but traces of evidence against them."
"And killing them like assassins is probably the worst thing we could do. We might remove them, but the town could lose its faith in Brawler for gods know how long."
"Even if we rasied Belwinks and brought him to testify against them, they would just say it is not really him and the crowd would listen."
"One thing is for sure. If we want to end it in a just and lawful way, we need to find a way to wrest the control over the crowd away from them. Maybe let's concentrate on this for a moment. Putting Blackmaine in a situation where he might make a mistake and show what he is really made of is grasping at straws, because it might or might not work. But maybe there is a more reliable way... Protection from Evil lasts just too short to be of use to us, even if we made everyone drink one..."
"Ah! What if we did go after both of them, but instead of killing them subdued them and dunked a Helmet of Opposite Alignment on their heads until its magic works? Then they would probably want to make amends and would help to resolve the situation themselves. Little risk to bystanders, no shedding of blood. Goodbarrel likes this idea."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday September 25th, 2008 7:00:37 PM
Being outside the room, hearing nothing of whats being said inside, Brahmah keeps an eye open and alert. (Perhaps backtracking a bit, but I didn't realize until now we were in a house. Brahmah will have cast Alarm on the front door for a mental alarm)
Lovely situation/DM Buzz Thursday September 25th, 2008 7:20:35 PM Zeoll all but begs for evidence to use against Blackmaine.
Winterglade asks a series of questions.
Brahmah secures the entrance with a silent alarm.
She maintains a friendly smile as she answers when she can. "The Contagious Charisma is based only on what they have for charm. Blackmaine and Herkamer have exhibited they are very wealthy, so it was easy for some to be friendly with them. There is no compulsion involved, but it is similar to one being best friends with another. Would it not seem preposterous to one of you, if the other was accused of murder? Also, if a True Friend shares the same alignment and morals as the Benefactor, there is nothing that the Hand of Love could do that would sever that tie. We are fortunate the people of this region are good people and may be turned in that way."
"Yes, there is a High Priest to Caeroldra here in the region. I assume, they are working together. As for undead and golems, there are thousands of miles of tunnels running under this island, it is possible they come from some lost and forgotten temple, but it is unlikely."
"I am not familiar with the dark practices of the gods of testing, but I could understand why they would remove the heart of someone they don't want returned to life."
'I do not know who Hollyhocks is. I have been here only three days. If you find him though, that could be your evidence. I pray your friend is still alive."
"I have met with Malica, he is a good man, but also a True Friend of Herkamer.
"There is no one present but us, I have seen to that. Herkamer is attending Malicas' party as we speak, and Blackmaine is having a banquet. After you were banished, he released the prisoners in the stocks to show his mercy to those that remained to see you off. You should also know, Herkamer is capable of scrying on those that are not protected."
"A Centaur with toes?" she giggles while placing her delicate hands over her mouth. "You're so silly."
'I can assure you, they are both very intelligent and not to be taken lightly. Covering their tracks is a mandatory precaution. They have the advantage at this point, but are not undefeatable, with or without battle."
"You can not break the bonds these two have created with the community without other evidence. Words will not do and magic is not involved"
"Would Domi be pleased with you for cursing someone, even for the common good? The only true path to reform is through willingness. Besides, who carries around cursed items to begin with?"
The last said with an arched eyebrow.
DM Buzz: I will be leaving Friday morning for an SCA event. next post will be Sunday night or early Monday day, depending on how much recuperation is necessary. Have a great weekend.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Friday September 26th, 2008 8:06:07 AM
Zeoll ponders the woman's words. He wonders who she is, who she honors, and why she is here. But he holds his peace as he tries to think.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday September 26th, 2008 2:44:58 PM
Brahmah is getting impatient. "Whats going on in there anyway? Do I hear a conversation?"
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Sunday September 28th, 2008 5:23:00 AM
Mac raises one eyebrow to Brahmah and grins, but still remains quiet.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:13:39 AM
Zeoll thinks out loud. In summary of his thoughts and words:
What are our leads? What are the crimes?
1) Unleashing undead on the port, probably in an effort to kill the harbormaster. The problem wit proving this is that it might have been a surrogate of Blackmaine, not himself, in which case he can disavow knowledge, sacrifice the necromancer, and still stay in power. Also, there are miles and miles of tunnel to explore ... we have no time for delving water or sewer.
2) Murder of the mayor and his daughter. This happened long enough ago that we cannot raise them. And we have no leads as to witnesses or clues.
3) False accusations against Jacktar. Once again, we have no clues or leads. Plus that's a pretty weak reed.
We really have to prove number two. But how?
The liontaur returns to his thoughts.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:14:13 AM
By the way, if anyone is still outside, Zeoll goes to fetch them and brings them up to speed on what the party now knows.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday September 28th, 2008 8:57:48 PM
"The only way to prove a murder is to have a witness or something left behind by the murdering party."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+17=34 ; Sunday September 28th, 2008 9:18:50 PM
The hour is late, my friends, but we have to move. If this kind woman cannot help us further, then let us go a-searching. We must find the family of the mayor and his daughter. Starting with his wife, if she lives, and his family.
Perhaps, sad though it might be, we can disinter the body and cast Speak with Dead.
Gather Info to find the family: 34.
Winterglade Monday September 29th, 2008 6:19:18 AM
[Guys, the internet access at my university hasn't been fixed yet. I'm cut off for now, but hope I'll be back this week.]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday September 29th, 2008 11:29:42 AM
"What we find out?"
Things to ponder/DM Buzz Monday September 29th, 2008 6:15:24 PM Zeoll thinks for a bit on what the lady in the blue cloak has had to say. He goes over in his mind several options and counter options that might play out, but only one that is probable. He ensures all are involved.
Brahmah wants to know what is being said, but there seems to be plenty of room for him to move forward, this house built for large dwellers. He asks what was missed.
Mac maintains his position.
Theorex is adamant that evidence is the only way to success.
Winterglade has asked all he can and allows the other group members their chance at questioning the female enigma.
In response to what the others have shared, their informant replies, "I don't think they wanted Guido dead until he lead them to Jacktars camp, which he eventually did. It is possible the undead were not meant for him or anyone else in particular. There was a burial for the Managers daughter, but Bewinks has not been found. Which is odd really. Why would they remove the heart and allow the body to be found, then get rid of the body, when they could have been rid of the body before it was found to begin with?" She asks, almost attempting to hand you a clue.
I can also tell you, it is not a random chance that I brought you to this house right here, but this is really is as much as I can share and still be able to assist you more in the future.
She stands to her small sized furry paws and pulls her blue hood up over her long, thick hair. Her eyes and mouth all that can now be seen of her face.
"It was a pleasure meeting you all and now I also have matters to attend to. I pray that someday we may all sit down over a nice mug of cider and relate our pasts in detail."
She starts for the door, but waits for a visible path to be made for her before she walks by you all, outside into the rain.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday September 30th, 2008 11:22:46 AM
Brahmah just watches her go. "What now?"
OOC: Come on guys?/DM Buzz Tuesday September 30th, 2008 3:34:28 PM
Do you need some hints or tips to get you going here?
The problem with "murder mysteries" is the more minds at work, the easier it is to solve problems, since there is only a few of you actively playing, I can see how it could be harder for you, so here are some tips.
The trees at the temple said "The priests of testing can not enter", but does that mean that a priest of testing couldn't be carried in by a priest of Domi? Especially if "playing" dead?
Who builds towers, especially new ones?
Why did this wemic bring you to this house, out of many others on the street?
Here are just a few to start with.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+3=5 ; d20+11=21 ; Tuesday September 30th, 2008 4:50:02 PM
Zeoll listens carefully, then nods in thanks and steps aside to let her pass. He notes that she said she might help us again in the future. He asks her how to contact her if they need to.
[OOC: Buzz, I'm sorry to be lame, but who is Herkamer? Who is or was Bewinks (the mayor?)? Guido was the harbormaster's name, right? Did the female wemic give us her name? If not, Zeoll asks her for it before she leaves.]
Zeoll wonders what she meant about this house. He looks around it. Who lives here? Is anyone here now? He will walk through, but first he asks Brahmah to go first to look for tracks and signs -- before Zeoll steps on anything.
Untrained Search 5 bleck.
Zeoll asks his friends if they think there might be something more going on at the grove. But the trees didn't say anything. Of course, they might not notice,
Zeoll uses his bard lore to think about what an evil villain might want with a murder victim's heart. Bard Lore 21.
Zeoll prays for guidance, too.
DM Buzz: #1 Herkamer is the gnome advisor to Blackmaine. Without having seen him, you don't know if it's the same gnome that attacked you in the valley. (Except for the fact Blackmaine admitted it was he that did so.)
#2 Belwinks was the Fort manager found dead with his heart removed.
#3 Guido was the Harbomaster.
#4 The female wemic says this when you first entered the room. "I must apologize, but I must be very forward when I say, I can tell you nothing of myself at this time, for reasons that you may understand later, but not now. I can answer truthfully all your questions though and I can elaborate further, once on any subject"
#5 Parts are used for many different things. From spell components to rituals of sacrifice, perhaps the eating of a foes heart makes another stronger? Those are a few of many reasons to obtain one.
What I would really like to suggest to you all, having much more 3.5 experience then I, to sit down as the bad guys and come up with ways that you could do what is being done here. You may find, there are not that many and they will not be far from the mark, if off. I can see frustration with a lot of these posts and you might just be thinking to hard on a lot of these situations.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Tuesday September 30th, 2008 8:22:39 PM
Occ: The problem that I am having as the Character, is that I don't have all the information I need to be helpful in this problem since I came into the story mid way through. My wife also came in at the same time. So I don't like to assume that my character knows something unless it was told to him. Ie by being written to him like this is being written.
So I am sorry I have not been much help. If you want to say that I know everything in all the posts but what was for blanked out then let me know.
Jim
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday October 1st, 2008 12:28:57 PM
OOC: Politics and intrigue are not my thing, hence the fact I amd playing a ranger and a monk in the Wold :), but I just started realizing this is a murder/who-done-it thing. My brain is being occupied with DMing at the moment so creativity is draining IC performance. Sorry. Some information does seem really vague at times and with no time to do much other than eating, sleeping and trying to keep the new kid at work from taking my job, I have had alot to occupy my mind.
IC: "Who owns this house? It seems odd that we are here. Is it hers?" Brahmah goes to find a study and any paperwork which might help to fill gaps. (Search Taking 50, I mean 20 ;)
Investigation, what a concept/DM Buzz Wednesday October 1st, 2008 4:29:28 PM Jim, you know as much as the rest of them do. They were only in town a few days when the found you and Tiba, so if you have time, go back to the archives and take a look at the couple of days you missed please.
So the group allows her to leave without further questions. She begins to walk east again mentioning something about it being a lovely night for a party.
The group searches through the house, using whatever light source they desire, the candle is still available as well.
Upstairs, you see a mural on the wall of the master bedroom. A friendly looking fellow with a young centaur maiden at his side, his arm gently over her shoulder.
On the outside, a root cellar with a beaten trail from many years of use sits near the garden, the door slightely open.
THE DM STRONGLY SUGGESTS INVESTIGATING THIS!!!
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+13=27 ; d20+4=6 ; Wednesday October 1st, 2008 5:16:41 PM
Zeoll says he suspects the woman may be going back to Malica's party.
Zeoll takes the bait! He turns invisible and sneaks down into the cellar, using only his low-light vision at first. If that reveals little, he will come back, get all his friends, and check it out in force.
Spot 27, Listen 6
The seer is thinking hard about the enemy, trying to put himself in Blackmaine's shoes. He mentions his suspicion that maybe Blackmaine is a Blackguard, that is, an Anti-Paladin. He certainly detected as evil when Zeoll scanned him.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+9=17 ; d20+5=19 ; Thursday October 2nd, 2008 8:28:54 AM
Still invisible Theorex searches the room for information and studies the painting. Knowledge local 10+2 =12 (sorry had a plus 9 not 7) :) Knowledge nobility 23
Spot for anything hidden 17 Search 19
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Thursday October 2nd, 2008 9:11:34 AM
"Ok I think we need a quick review since it looks like some time has passed."
OCC:It was a year ago in real life when this started.
Lets go after the information in this house and see if it points to the death of the leader. Also what about the death of the harbor master Guido. Why did he die? What did he know that needed to remain hidden?
It seems that the enemy doesn't want us to get information and sent us out of the city by challenging us and we just left. We look guilty to the hearts of the people by leaving. I think we should quickly go find as much as we can about where the deaths have happened and cast whatever spells we can to find out information and then go back to the city with the information and challenge Blackmane-Blackheart.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+15=26 ; d20+4=23 ; d20+14=15 listen; Thursday October 2nd, 2008 8:07:37 PM
OOC: Wow, Essyx, yes, you should have probably waited to be introduced. Your lucky no one here kills on sight anymore. :)
IC: "So, I'll check the study and that sort of place. Then I'll see if there is a roof entrance and check that out. Remember everyone, I have alarmed the door and the passage word is 'WHO' YOU KNOW BEST IN YOUR HEART."
"Heyoo, you silly bear, stay with me."
He'll take 20. (Rolls in case taking 20 is a bad idea... Spot 26, Search 23, Listen 15)[increases with favored enemies]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday October 3rd, 2008 1:47:52 PM
He goes off and explores the rooms mentioned. "Anyone else coming?"
From top to bottom/DM Buzz Friday October 3rd, 2008 8:51:56 PM Zeoll believes the mysterious lady intends to visit malica. He sets to work, hoping she hasn't lead them on a false trail. He goes invisible and steps back out into the rain to visit the root cellar.
Theorex still invisible studies the others rooms where things are dryer. The mural on the wall resembles the very estate this house rests on, with a view from the rear facing the back of the house. Others remind Theorex what the female wemic had said about them thinking Guido the Harbor Master being a spy for Jacktar and it costing him his life. He also feels, like Jacktar, they deserted the community and must make amends.
Brahmah after investigations can see, there is no door to the roof. One must climb up by using a ladder. The crawl space near the ceiling with no exterior access is large enough for repair work if it were necessary. Once, he searches through the house, he can find nothing else. Heyoo shakes off all the moisture he can before ambling after his horned friend.
The group can easily split up and stay within ear shot of each other, but as Zeoll descends into the cellar, he can see obviously large hoof prints, much like what Brahmah would leave behind. Hastily buried under a now rotting produce box, Zeoll finds a book, wrapped in many layers of oiled cloth to prevent moisture from ruining the text.
Anyone with a Comprehend Languages spell or the ability to read the centaur language Highlight to display spoiler: { It seems to be a journal from the daughter of Balentine the old fort manager. It goes back for years, but it is the entries from just a few months ago that catch your attention. It relates how she met Blackmaine on the road coming from Fort Damastes. "Oh what a fine and striking figure of a centaur he is too. He is looking to relocate to a new area and asked about Fort Stag".......................... Nothing of importance until a week later. "Blackmaine has told me he overheard jacktar plotting against my father. He told me not to mention anything, because then he could hide evidence that Blackmaine needed to thwart those plans. I think I'm falling in love with him."...................................... Another week goes by, "I must escape for my own safety, he tells me. My father was found dead and he thinks Hollyhocks and Jacktar are responsible. I can't believe it, Hollyhocks! He helped me live as my mother died in fathers arms. How could he be involved? I must get away from here, I have no one to trust, no where to go, wait, there is someone here, please if you're a friend of good, seek out Hollyhocks, my father, anyone and bring back what was once law to this fine area." The last words written in a hurried script.}
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) d20+2=10 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+6=16 ; Saturday October 4th, 2008 12:27:00 AM
"Sure!" Mac replies to Brahmah, and folows along.
Search=10, Listen=10, Spot=16
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Saturday October 4th, 2008 5:07:10 AM
"So it is off to find hollyhocks then. Does anyone have something that was of his?"
Winterglade Saturday October 4th, 2008 9:59:26 AM
[Sigh. Folks, looks like the best option for me right now is to remove Winterglade from the current module. It is not only my failing internet connection, but also work and other things to do in RL that have been stacking up. Sorry. Thanks and enjoy the game, I might hop back on board sometime in the future - Marcin.]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Saturday October 4th, 2008 4:33:28 PM
OOC: Well, darn it. Goodbar-- Winterglade, its been fun. I hope you return soon.
IC: "Hey, anyone see Winterglade recently?" A horrible thought crosses his mind. "I haven't seen him since the female left. Could she have kidnapped him for ransom?"
Everylady needs an escort/DM Buzz Saturday October 4th, 2008 5:49:05 PM
Winterglade, stricken with the knowledge of the problems in this area. pirates and Ankhegs, monster vermin and drunks deides to attend the party with the female lady. She does not attempt to dissuade him as they walk out into the rain together. He offers her his arm in a gentlemanly fashion and with a smile and swish of her tail accepts as they enter the mud filled road.
OOC: That leaves no clerics now guys. I suggest you druid(s) pay close attention to your spell listings from now on.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday October 5th, 2008 8:32:52 AM
Zeoll is struck dumb when Winterglade leaves. A moment later, he manages a good by and fare well. He is very sad to see the centaur go.
[OOC: I was under the impression that Hollyhocks left before Blackmaine arrived, and that he went with the other druids to help in the South. Is that right, Buzz?
DM Buzz: No, this is not correct. Hollyhocks was the only one to stay. He was the clergy for the town as the new political process was put in order. When Balentine was discovered with his heart removed, Hollyhocks had him taken back to the temple so that he could do a "Speak with Dead" in the morning. The problem with this is, that same night Jacktar was run out of town and Holloyhocks with the body of Balentine has come up missing. It had been mentioned that Balentines daughter was also murdered and that she was buried, but no one claimed to see the body during the funeral, it being a "closed casket" ceremony.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday October 5th, 2008 9:31:05 AM
Theorex wave good bye to Winterglade. "Good fortune go with you my friend."
"I guess that we should find hollyhocks then or the person who wrote this diary or journal. Or perchance both."
Reminders for old and new players/DM Buzz Sunday October 5th, 2008 9:55:10 AM
Monday June 16th, 2008 7:21:27 PM 1.
Larmane stands perfectly still behind Jacktaur eyeing those that are handling their weapons. He in no way appears nervous or concerned about it however.
Jacktaur on the other hand has a wide array of facial expressions as each speak in turn. To Zeoll he relates, "Hollyhocks has not been seen in months. The last word that was heard from him was when Larmane here received an urgent message that his assistance was necessary, but by the time he arrived, half the warriors of Fort Stag was either outlaws or imprisoned. There are rumors Hollyhocks is also a prisoner in the dungeons of Fort Stag, but rumors are seldom accurate, even if they drift on the wind of truth.
When Winterglade speaks, Jacktaur does not look pleased, "You swore an oath to serve him, and you all do not know his name? You did this with the knowledge that he wishes total control over the centaur island?"
With a tainted tone of disdain he continues, "Those that are not his minions are either here, imprisoned or dead as you should be aware. Those here escaped in the night when we were all taken by surprise in our sleep by a large group of well armed and armored minotaurs. Minotaurs!" He does not seem to care that there is one in your party, but that the audacity of the situation has him on edge. "When I refused they drew arms and it was then, I knew there was something amiss. Thank Domi I had no wife or children in my hearth, but others are not so lucky. They are now held along with others that would not swear their fealty to him."
Larmane speaks for the first time in the meeting. He addresses the room, though his words are for the outlaw captain. "With my own faith, I believe their words are to be true, as were the other divinations.
Jacktaur smiles a genuine gesture for the first time. "I agree with all you have reasoned and if you are willing to take on this Blackmane then you are my guests."
Jacktaur relaxes and seems quite present in the moment.
"There are only two ways to approach this matter" Says the acknowledged captain of Fort Stag, "unless you have come up with a different plan you may share when I'm finished."
If I could address Blackmaine and challenge him to a Kayleb, then the populace would not or could not choose a side but of the victors. I do not know the power of this individual, I have never seen him either, but perhaps if I could win the Kayleb, there would be no bloodshed but our own."
He then shrugs his shoulders and takes a deep breath, "If I lose, then the island is stuck with a tyrant, which is the worst possible scenario."
"The other option is to find out where he is and take him on as a group to battle it out. Some bad sentiments will come of it with the population but with time it will improve."
"If only we could find out how powerful he is or perhaps better what weaknesses, he has that we can exploit?"
DM Buzz: Thus, Hollyhocks must have contacted Larmane the day they found the mayor dead and before he "came up missing". Since the group didn't go with plan A or plan B, I guess you need to determine what plan C is.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Sunday October 5th, 2008 12:35:47 PM
Thanks, Buzz! More later!
What does it mean?/DM Buzz Monday October 6th, 2008 5:51:08 PM Mac follows along with the others.
Theorex wonders if a possession of Hollohocks is available as someone continues to hold the weather protected journal.
Tiba left almost an hour ago and is not here right now. Sheila, please send me an email when you return so we can get you right back into the action.
Winterglade examines the journal for everyone, since he seems to be the only one that can understand the writing at this time, then with a gleam in his eye, goes after the lady wemic. All characters know what the spoiler says.
Brahmah says his goodby's to Goodbarrel and makes jest.
Zeoll too shows remourse at the leaving of their friend and comrade Winterglade, he shows appreciation to the spirits of time.
It seems to be a journal from the daughter of Balentine the old fort manager. It goes back for years, but it is the entries from just a few months ago that catch your attention. It relates how she met Blackmaine on the road coming from Fort Damastes. "Oh what a fine and striking figure of a centaur he is too. He is looking to relocate to a new area and asked about Fort Stag".......................... Nothing of importance until a week later. "Blackmaine has told me he overheard Jacktar plotting against my father. He told me not to mention anything, because then he could hide evidence that Blackmaine needed to thwart those plans. I think I'm falling in love with him."...................................... Another week goes by, "I must escape for my own safety, he tells me. My father was found dead and he thinks Hollyhocks and Jacktar are responsible. I can't believe it, Hollyhocks! He helped me live as my mother died in fathers arms. How could he be involved? I must get away from here, I have no one to trust, no where to go, wait, there is someone here, please if you're a friend of good, seek out Hollyhocks, my father, anyone and bring back what was once law to this fine area." The last words written in a hurried script.
The following characters are no longer in the group until I get an email from their players. Flat-top Tiba Gecktar Winterglade
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday October 6th, 2008 6:52:56 PM
OOC: OY! We need a bloody flippen cleric! Sheesh... you all go blooey right when things are dicey! ;)
OOC: Brahmah is high enough level to cast only one or two Cure spells, anything beyond is impossible. I know a couple of Chosen have Cure tattoos, but I think those PCs are gone now.
IC: "So this was Hollyhocks place? I wonder if there is more to this place than a diary?"
DM Buzz: NO! This is Balentines old house. Him and his daughter are on the mural.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Monday October 6th, 2008 10:15:24 PM
"hmm very well lets examine this journal and go after Hollyhocks."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+10=13 d20+23=31 Tuesday October 7th, 2008 7:49:56 AM
The illiterate seer uses magic to gift himself with the art of reading. He cast Comp Lang and looks over the journal.
Zeoll ponders the situation. From the journal, he suspects that this house itself and its area around was the scene of some disturbance, maybe even the murder of Balentine. Something bad happened right here. He casts Speak with Plants and walks around the house, in and out. Maybe some tree here witnessed the murder or other crime. Maybe the plant would know Balentine, since he was the master of this house. Or Hollyhocks, a well-regarded druid.
It's a long shot, but worth a try. Wild Empathy and Diplomacy, if needed, to use in taking to trees and plants. If needed, Zeoll will double the duration of his spell with a use of his metamagic rod.
Wild Emp: 14 (sorry, only added +10 above; shoulda been +11) Diplom: 31
And it might be worth it to spend 15 minutes searching the area nearby for anything ... maybe a shallow grave? Zeoll asks Captain Brahmah to take a look with a ranger's eye.
Update on Spells 'n' Stuff Used Today
Druid Spells (underlined = used) Level 0: Guidance x2, Det Magic, Det Magic, Taur's Try Level 1: Speak with Animals, Speak with Animals x3 Level 2: Hold Animal, Charm Anim x3 Level 3: Speak with Plants x3
Bard Spells 0 of 3 Level 0 spells used 1 of 5 Level 1 spells used 3 of 4 Level 2 spells used
Bard Music: 3 of 6 used today Metamagic Rod: 1 of 3 used Wand of Speak with Animals: 1 of 50 used Goodberries from Wreath: 0 of 15 used Wind Fan: 0 used Elixers of Sneakiness: 1 of 6 used
Resources and spells used today: Charge of Speak with Animals wand - Aug 10 Bard Music - Aug 10 Heroism and Detect Magic - Aug 13 Bard Music - Aug 14 Extended Heroism - Aug 22 Speak with Plants x2 - Sept 2 Suggestion - Sept 11 Bard Music - Sept 12 Speak with Animals x2 - Sept 17 Comp Lang - Oct. 6 Speak with Plants - Oct. 6
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) d20+4=8 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+4=10 ; d20+4=15 ; d20+20=23 ; d20+20=28 ; d20+20=25 ; d20+20=37 ; d20+15=33 ; d20+15=16 ; d20+15=30 ; d20+15=35 ; Tuesday October 7th, 2008 9:07:37 AM
Brahmah shrugs and looks around for a shallow grave. He'll look in the basement, then move outside. (Takes 20 to Search the basement)
Moving outside, he'll take as much time as is needed to determine, one way or another, whether there is a grave on site. He will move out up and no further than 50 feet away from the house. He has a suspicion this house might still be being watched by offending parties. He will draw weapon as he searches.
Rolling four checks a piece, one for each direction searched from the house. (Search 8, 13, 10 and 15, Survival for general check 23, 28, 25 and 37, Spot 33, 16, 30 and 35)
(Can't find a recent spell list, but as it is rather short anyway, I have cast one Alarm and have an Alarm and I believe a Barkskin left)
DM BUzz: You also used a Spider Climb Tattoo just before entering the Fort.
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=11 ; d20+5=25 ; Tuesday October 7th, 2008 9:10:35 PM
Can I have a discription of the rooms in the house and what is around the area so that I can picture it in my head?
Moving around Theorex tries to find anything that might tell who lives or lived here.
Spot 11 Search natural 20 yes for a total of 25.
"Ah this is interesting..."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Wednesday October 8th, 2008 5:54:54 PM
OOC: Thanks Buzz, but I was just trying to remember ACTUAL spells prepared though.
IC: Brahmah feels a tug at his heart, as if something is closing in on the Chosen that no one, not even Domi, can prevent.
He continues searching, rather unethusiastically.
A trail of crumbsDM Buzz Wednesday October 8th, 2008 8:49:54 PM
The group searches through the house and yard until they find the journal. Within, a tale of fright from a young woman that is unaware of her predicament,
A set of hooves are found in the basement as well and after leaving the root cellar, Brahmah with some difficulty can tell, five minotaurs struggled with a captive north toward a ridge line of trees bordering the property. They then travel west toward the shore and enter what appear to be solid rock facing the crashing waves. Between the shoreline and the rock face lies a distance of around sixty feet.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday October 9th, 2008 4:08:43 PM
He hurries to find the others. "I have something, come down stairs! Tracks and a trail that heads north then west."
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) d20+3=10 ; Thursday October 9th, 2008 5:15:51 PM
Oh! Events reveal clues before Zeoll can even cast his Speak with Plants! He thinks that this will surely lead the party on to answers, or at least to adventure. The trail leads to a rock face. "Well, done, Captain Brrahmah!" says the seer.
Maybe there is a secret door in the rock face, or nearby. Zeoll looks -- untrained search is a 10 -- and encourages everybody to search too. Looking around, he realizes that "everyone" is just Brahmah and Theo.
"How odd, my frriends," Zeoll says. "That we arre so rreduced. How did that happen? Wherre is my oldest and dearrest frriend, Flat-top? Wherre arre Gecktarr and Winterrglade, ourr prriests of Domi?"
Suddenly returning to the sandy beach, Zeoll sits down in surprise. He seems only now to have realized his losses.
"Where is Torros, that brrave barrd and clerric and shadowdancerr? Where is Leets, my paladin frriend? Where is ourr grreenmage, Kanchana? Wherre arre Kale and Kenisha and Kalon? Do you rrememberr Cierra, Brrhamah? She was always hungrry, like Flat-top."
"Arre Solgrrin and Kanchana and Kenisha still taking carre of the childrren? The little unitaurrs. How special they arre. How frragile."
"Oh, well. The sea sprray has splashed into my eyes," Zeoll says.
He starts to sing a song, but does not make it past the first few words.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Thursday October 9th, 2008 7:14:23 PM
Brahmah pats Zeoll kindly on the shoulder. "How things change. Is it possible that Domi wishes us to END here on a long stretch of beach, so far from OUR homes? Just to fade out?"
Then the ranger shakes it all off. "But we have a mission and if it is to be our last, I want to finish at your side my friend."
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 d20+9=12 ; d20+5=8 ; Friday October 10th, 2008 7:36:40 AM
Sitting down with his comrades Theorex takes out some bread and cheese for everyone to have.
"I know that you can not see me but I am here. I sadly have not found much even though I was sure I found something." " I am sure that our journey is not over. It is a time to have faith my friends in that Domi will provide worthy hero's to come right to this beach. Perchance maybe someone who saw events from within the city."
"Tell me what you have found my friends. Ah yes... Sadly I do not have the spell detect secret doors or a tracking spell in memory today but I can for tomorrow."
Mac(HP:101, AC:23) Friday October 10th, 2008 9:24:09 AM
"So far from OUR homes?! Would you like to guess how long it has been since I was as near to my home as you are far from yours?"
Pausing to chew and swallow some bread (thanks!) he adds, "If he tells you so, then please let us know. But the Domi I know is a Blacksmith - He doesn't discard his tools while there is still an ounce of strength left in them... while they can still do his work."
"And maybe this will provide me with a chance to demonstrate what I can do."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Friday October 10th, 2008 9:44:50 AM
"Anyway! We still have a mission. We can help these people rid themselves of Blackmaine and the rest and go back to a good life. I have decided. If I survive this, I will return home and raise grapes. I might buy a ship too. Rather than revenging my father, I might just pick up where he left off."
Never say Goodby, but farewell/ DM Buzz Friday October 10th, 2008 5:57:25 PM
The surf pounds on the sands behind the party as the night slowly passes. The gentle droplets of water continuously falls on the heros and rolls down their body to land on the already wet sand. A voice that sounds like waves crashing against rocks fills the ears of the Chosen from behind them as they chew on what Theorex provides for them. Turning about, they can see the face of a man with an encouraging smile looking upon them, as tall as a tree.
His kind voice comforting as he speaks, "I can see that the time has not yet arrived for the races of these isles to come together as brothers and sisters. The gods of testing rest in the hearts of to many for it to be possible at this time. Yet, you have fought the good fight and you have done much in my name, in order for others to become better then they were before you came into their lives. Bridge island is even now sinking into the ocean, never again will the sun shine directly upon it as it once did. The peoples of these islands must come to their own understandings of what is right and wrong. Until then, they will continue to clash just as the waves create sand. I know your group is apart, but know, you will also be together, because I know in my immortal heart, you will always fight for those that can not fight for themselves. Many are called my children, but very few have been Chosen."
With that, a huge wave that would kill most mortals rise up out of the water and lands on the group of three. The warmth of the water like a warm blanket as it pulls you out to sea. Your instincts to struggle nonexistent as you watch your body travel further and further from the shoreline. Your destination unknown as the hand of Domi leads you to your next adventure. Where? Only he will know the answer to that and you are confident, wherever you make land once again, it is there you will be needed.
Thus ends the game named The Chosen of Domi, but be not fooled faithful readers, their story is not over, but truly, it has just begun.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Friday October 10th, 2008 8:40:18 PM
Zeoll's deep sorrow threatens to overwhelm him. But the words of the divine figure sink in, and he dares to hope for a new day.
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Saturday October 11th, 2008 12:59:40 PM
Brahmah's thoughts fill with hope as the figure speaks. The large taur can only stare, even his heart, which is truly full now, has stopped beating. He simply says with wide eyes, "Domi..."
Thank you friends for your companionship this past seven years. See you out there... Have Courage and go with Honor!
(OOC: How fitting, Brahmah's first vision of the Chosen was across water and now his last is across water... full circle... :))
Theorex AC 21 Hps 50/59 Sunday October 12th, 2008 11:01:22 AM
"I am honored to have played with you."
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Sunday October 12th, 2008 2:15:30 PM
Brahmah moves alo..... oops, oh yeah,no more game, bye! :)
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Monday October 13th, 2008 3:06:35 PM
OOC: Keeping it alive!!
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Monday October 13th, 2008 9:59:13 PM
Zeoll pops in, takes a look around, and follows Brahmah.
/ DM Buzz Tuesday October 14th, 2008 3:32:17 AM
I suppose we could just keep posting. I'm alright with just four players, as i've said before.
Random encounters.
A lost dungeon
Something that actually involves not having to be heros but adventurers.
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Tuesday October 14th, 2008 8:37:14 AM
Zeoll looks wildly around, as the waves bear him someplace new. A lost dungeon? Wowsy, as the cubs say, that would be swell!
[OOC: That would be sweet as a just for fun thing, Buzz! To the extent that it is fun for you and NOT a chore!]
Brahmah AC 25, Hps 117/117 (Heyoo AC 16, Hps 45/45) Tuesday October 14th, 2008 12:28:00 PM
I'M IN!!
/ DM Buzz Tuesday October 14th, 2008 8:52:45 PM
As long as Jerry doesn't mind, I'm totally down with that. We can even bring Kris in and we can call it an "experiment".
Zeoll (AC17, HP 50 of 50) Wednesday October 15th, 2008 9:16:08 AM
Zeoll takes a look around. Hmmmm. "Oh, Brrahmah, therre you arre? Has anyone else made it herre?"
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