Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Wednesday April 29th, 2009 10:54:44 PM
Sturdevant leads the way into dinner and presides over a sumptuous meal and simple small talk; finding out about Ingrge's wife and daughter, Bertram's new temple, Gunther's animal training yard, even asks about Bruss and others of the household.
The meal finally comes to an end and unlike his usual self, he is quite abrupt and curt. Fine, so now pleasantries are over and done with. let's make our way into my den where we can talk and I can tell you why I invited you to the city.
Once in the den you find a long table set up with chairs around it enough for just all of you and the Mayor.
Just as you become seated, The mayor once again stands and with no ceremony, begins to speak.
"So, I have called you here to share the wisdom of Alemi. Alemi has shown me a terrible future, one in which the blight of the People of the Black Blood covers this city and all of the penninsula and much of the land to the north. As we speak a Beastlord gather his forces and plans an all-out assault on New Elenna. Apparently a shrine to an old Power, called the Twisted Run stretches for miles underneath the surface of The Scab, and it is there that a powerful Chosen One named Kar Nual marshals the Beastlord's army. I have seen a limitless horde of lycanthropes pouring forth and overrunning New Elenna's defenders, and I am determined that this future shall not come to pass."
Sturdevant focuses intently for a moment on the air behind and above you all, makes an arcane gesture, and speaks a whispered word of power. Suddenly appaering above you all are the five bodies, three dwarves and two humans, floating in the air.
These were the lycanthropes you fought earlier. The Star Tower mages tell me that in theirhybrid form they were much larger than normal wolverines, and I believe we have discovered why -- "Blacktooth Paste."
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Wednesday April 29th, 2009 11:08:44 PM
The warrior thoroughly enjoys his dinner with the High Lord. The man somehow always has a way of making the orc warrior feel at ease in what would normally have been a tortuous proceedings of the seemingly endless set of rules that humans set around such occasions.
As they get down to business, the warrior listens intently to Sturdevant's dream. He watches with a mild amount of interest as the bodies are produced. Tilting his head to the side in curiosity, Gunther mumbles "Blacktooth Paste?!" as he idly scratches Delilah behind the ears.
Argam AC34 *STONESKIN 150* 119HP Thursday April 30th, 2009 2:20:06 AM
"Aye, what is this Blacktooth paste?" Argam says, joining with Gunther's inquiry.
LianAC 41, hps 134, Stoneskin 150 Thursday April 30th, 2009 11:06:52 AM
The hand of Domi sneers at the captain of the guard. "That will be all, friend." He winks and turns to bow for the Mayor.
"Lycans huh. Well, I can't say I've seen many of them recently, other than the five just now." Says the elf. "But if it means stopping the innocent citizens from being turned or killed, I'm in."
He turns to the Emeralds and says, "I'll be heading to the Catacombs for Eb's Tears versus shapers. I suggest we all head over after this."
"Lord Mayor, is there reason to believe that ALL the lycans we encounter are evil? Or just merely compelled?"
K'Nara Thursday April 30th, 2009 11:54:58 AM
"Something tells me that this 'Blacktooth Paste' isn't going to be something we want to see people using three times a day..." K'Nara mutters. "So I'll just add my own 'what, huh, duh?' and wait for the mayor to fill us in on what this Paste is and how it effects people."
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Thursday April 30th, 2009 10:51:30 PM
Ingrge looks around at the others and then over at Sturdevant.
Well I am guessing that it has something to do with why those two changed so quickly after being bitten.
Sturdevant nods at Ingrge and then continues.
"If you look closely inside the mouths of the dwarves you will see that their teeth are black and the flesh of their gums is scaly and gray. Not long ago a druid from one of the scab border towns nearly succumbed to a strange paste made from a particular cave fungus. his captor called the stuff "Blacktooth Paste" and its effects left its victim feral, weak willed and physiologically altered. I had thought it an isolated incident, but clear;y it was not. I believe that a ranger druid monstrologer Lich that used to affiliated with Ga'al has been using this paste to create a superior race of lycanthrope with which to over run New Ellena, and I need the Emerald Dragons to help stop him.
This Blacktooth Paste seems to allow the afflicted beasts a bit more speed than normal, makes their hides tougher to penetrate and harder to damage in the first place and possibly other benefits we do not know. But worst is that any being bitten by a first generation Blacktooth Lycan can contract the disease and will change within 1 minute of being bitten.
Please feel free to inspect the beasts more closely and talk amongst yourselves for a moment and then I will answer what other questions I can about this situation.
LianAC 41, hps 134, Stoneskin 150 Friday May 1st, 2009 12:57:06 PM
"I suspect this is a search and destroy, not a research and collect mission... because that would just be stupid." Grins the elf, in a 'I fully suspect the latter.' tone of voice.
"So, if we are bitten and succumb, what sort of action should be taken? Would we attack friends? What was observed in the presence of the druid? Was he himself in normal form, but an evil and blood thirsty bastard in lycan form?"
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Friday May 1st, 2009 10:27:50 PM
The warrior snorts derisively eliciting a startled growl of annoyance from the lioness curled up next to him. "A ranger druid monstrologer Lich, eh? Remember ven dey used to be separated out into nice neat groups? Fighters or spell slingers. Everyvon's someting fancy now a days." As he listens to the description of the lycans, Gunther gathers his mental resources, trying to figure out what kind of gear he'll need for the upcoming confrontation.
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Saturday May 2nd, 2009 12:20:33 AM
This is definitely a search and destroy mision if you are able. The numbers might be a bit overwhelming however. But then as for that we have sent out a few other groups to find out information, and I am sure if needed you could convince them to help you somehow.
Well apparently two of your party were bitten in this last encounter, and they do not seem to have suffered any ill effects, so I would assume that whatever you did took care of the problem.
As for what happens when the blacktooth lycanthropy takes hold, I can give you just a bit of insight. It looks like it forces a ethics change within the brain so you think feel behave and actually are evil. These Lycans are exrtremely protective of each other and tend to do whatever they can to protect each other, so yes you are likely, if bitten and succumb, to attack your nearest former friend and ally.
The lycans seem to have three basic forms, their normal form a hybrid form and a full lycan form. They aparently react similarly in all three forms.
Strudevant stops and looks around as if to see who else might have some questions.
So you say this Twisted Run is located under the Scab. Is there a more specific location? I mean the Scab is a bit larger than say, the every day back yard. Also I would like to know how long ago these lycans and this blacktooth paste were discovered and why it has taken getting to a critical point of near overwhelming odds, before we were called?
LianAC 41, hps 134 Saturday May 2nd, 2009 1:05:19 PM
"Truth be told, the Scab has never been fun and I would like to teleport in and out to avoid the bloody place at all costs, so, I agree with Ingrge.... is there a physical place which be scry'd on so our mage here can familiarize himself with it?"
"You also mentioned that the others succumb and we did not. The only thing we may have done differently from the others is killing them. Has anyone else managed to killed them? If so, were they fine as well or did they remain lycan?"
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Sunday May 3rd, 2009 12:25:28 PM
Sturdevant cocks his head and shoots a glace at Argam. only thing you did was kill them? I think not.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Sunday May 3rd, 2009 2:54:47 PM
"Take no offense Mayor. I meant, if by killing a lycan who has turned someone changes the infected back to themselves, then that might be why none of us have contracted the curse. You know, like a vampire siring a victim.
Killing is not a permanent thing. One can be raised, correct?" The monk stops right there.
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Monday May 4th, 2009 12:01:47 AM Alchemical silver..check. Stoneskin scrolls...check. The warrior wonders what other things he might need to purchase. He listens and considers as he carefully combs a matt out of Delila's hair.
Argam AC34 *STONESKIN 150* 119HP Monday May 4th, 2009 2:42:56 AM
Argam stated matter-of-factly, "Nay, in my studies I remember that the use of a Heal spell could rid an infected body of the curse of lycanthropy if administered in time. So, that is what I used on those in our group that had been bloodied. It seems to have worked."
ooc: I guess I'm outta here...Jerry said he would be taking over tomorrow/Monday. It's been a pleasure :) --JimC
LianAC 41, hps 134 Monday May 4th, 2009 5:37:18 PM
The elf slaps himself in the head, stunned for a moment. "I knew I recognized that spell. I'll ba able to cast that soon!"
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Monday May 4th, 2009 6:53:07 PM
(ooc: Thanks a lot Jim)
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Monday May 4th, 2009 10:35:50 PM
Having finished removing the matt, Gunther looks around the room before returning his gaze to Sturdevant. "Can you tell us de names of de groups dat vere sent out...or maybe dere marks. Dat vay ve know who's supposed to be friend and who's supposed to be foe."
OOC: Yes, thanks Jim!!
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Tuesday May 5th, 2009 12:10:02 AM
Yes, Sir Ingrge, I can tell you about the Twisted Run. It is an underground location. Whether it be care of something else we can't discern. We haven't been able to get in. The entrance is also unknown. We know the Run itself near the coast at the northern tip of Dragon Bay. Climb right up. There is an unnamed steaming waterfall that runs down into the bay which seems the easiest landmark to talk about.
And Liam, the place seems to be magically protected. No scrying. No teleporting withing several hundred feet of it. No hint of an entrance down into it.
The night after we learned this, Alemi sent me a dream/vision--last night. He showed me the deadly results of this situation. I immediately called you and asked you to come help.
Lian, I know of no others that we've killed other than the druid. And the information sent did not say if he returned to human form after his death.
Gunther, that's a good question. A veteran group named the Red Tigers from Floating City was in town. They were sent in yesterday when we got the first report. When I informed the Star Tower, they told me that they put agents in the field, but as usual didn't say who they were.
---------------- [Sorry for the delay and for staying gone longer than expected. It looks like that with Ingrge's start on my section, that this will be kind of short. So I'm going to send Scene 3 to the next DM soon. My thanks to Jim C. for filling in for me. I've been more than swamped.]
As for how long they were discovered, well it is a recent thing. As you know, once the temple of Ga'al in Aisildur fell, Ga'al has been furious, even mad it seems. Reaching out to all possibilities for a new power base, he latched upon this situation. We discovered it only recently. A dwarven druid was captured and was given the stuff. A paste made from a cave fungus. Word got to us shortly after that. The dwarf was seen not even a day after he was captured, fully into his lycanthropy. That's all the information we got however, because the druid got loose and was killed in the resulting battle.
Argam Tuesday May 5th, 2009 12:11:57 AM
Argam muses, "Well then, seems like I'd better get some scrolls of "Heal" from the temple if they have any. Might have to hire some made. Do we have the funds for that K'nara? If I have to go to other temples, then donations may be required." Or perhaps Sturtavent can help us with funds for his mission? Sir?
He flashes a grin at the High Lord Mayor.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Tuesday May 5th, 2009 4:32:06 PM
With nothing more to add, Lian remains silent until something rouses his curiousity.
Argam Tuesday May 5th, 2009 4:53:44 PM
So basically what you want us to do is go there, find the place, stop the invasion, destroy all this "black" stuff and stifle Ga'al's influence in the area? Anything else sir?
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Tuesday May 5th, 2009 6:28:14 PM
Indicting the items piled on the floor under the dead bodies, Ingrge answers Argam. Well if we just dispose of this stuff at the catacombs we can probably buy a few of the things we need with the funds. A bit more if we spend some of tonight doing identifications, so we don't have to pay for that.
Lord Mayor, where do the dwarves come into this? They seem to be from the same clan by looking at their gear. Has there been any messages from any of the dwarven clans?
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Tuesday May 5th, 2009 10:57:58 PM
The warrior's curiosity is peaked with the mention of Ga'al. He shudders a little. "Ga'al...isn't he dat god dat puts dose plants in people's chests. Ugg! Argam, it sounds like it is more dan likely dat some priest of Ga'al might be involved in all of dis. Vat can you tell me about how de operate?"
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Tuesday May 5th, 2009 11:57:30 PM
"Basically Argam, that is correct. Take care of the situation. Make sure that the vision Alemi gave to me does not take place. I....
"I've never got a vision before. The High Priest said it was a great honor and I agree. In fact, I've been to the temple twice today to pay my respects. That was...awkward too as the priests on duty have True Seeing up and the stares make it hard to worship.
"Ingrge, the loot is yours if you want it, of course. I will also pay you 10,000gp each once the task is done to pay for expenses. Things of a mundane nature are yours for the taking from our armory. Just ask the Steward outside. He'll also supply you with up to 10 potions if that would help. I'll foot the bill for 5 heal scrolls. Any more that you want you can provide. Does that sound reasonable friends?
"Hmm...I think I agree that the dwarves come from the same clan. Check for tattoos. I can release the Stasis if you want?" When he receives a nod, he releases the spell and the dwarves fall to the floor ready to be examined.
[Make any desired checks please: spot, search, knowledge, etc.]
-------------
ooc: anyone remember Sturtavent's steward's name?
K'Nara d20+1=9 ; d20=11 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2009 1:41:26 AM
K'Nara closely examines the bodies of the lycanthropic dwarves from the battle at Gladiator Park, hoping she might discover something useful. OOC: K'Nara is Taking Twenty; her Spot is a total of 29 and her Search is a total of 31...I think that means she gets to keep the Giggling Ghost Tavern token she finds in somebody's pocket..? ;D)
LianAC 41, hps 134 d20+11=19 ; d20+5=7 ; d20+12=30 ; d20+4=20 ; d20+9=24 ; d20+25=43 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2009 1:59:48 PM
Lian scratches the back of his right hand, the scaly patch Parnoth left. He remembers the mission to finish off the Ol' Greenie. "Well, Mayor, after witnessing the death of gods, the rise of Eberyon and contributing to the downfall of Parnoth, whats the destruction of another God in the scheme of things." He shrugs. Bows. Then is back to his light and chipper grin.
He turns to Argam and whispers, "Not asking much are they?" He rolls his eyes and looks at Knara for the next step.
(Spot 19, Search 7, Sense Motive 30, Know Religion 20, Know Arcana 24, Listen 43.... he speaks elven, draconic, sylvan and common if it matters)
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand d20+15=23 ; d20+15=31 ; d20+16=30 ; d20+16=27 ; Wednesday May 6th, 2009 6:20:14 PM
Nodding to Sturdevant, Ingrge wanders over and joins K'nara and the others in taking a look over the bodies, carefully using his normal and extraordianry vision to see what might be determined, if anything from the bodies.
After looking over the bodies, Ingrge turns back to Sturdevant. Mayor, can you show me on a map where this area you are describing is and perhaps get me a good visialization of the area so that we can teleport more closely to the target area?
(ooc: I am entering into our school's exam weeks over the next two weeks. I should be able to continue posting thouigh they may be a bit terse sometimes.
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 6th, 2009 10:55:31 PM
Those who got a Search or spot of 25 notice that there is a tattoo on the tongue.
Ingrge's Knowledge checks tell him that they are Dwarven Defenders from the outpost of Deg Shanut. An old outpost near Dragon Bay that has been manned for thousands of years--way back to the time the Dragons first started infesting Dragon Bay. They are as loyal as they are brave and fierce.
As Lian whispers to Argam, Sturtavent gets a secret grin on his face. ::Oh how they forget who I am when I'm in human form.:: he thinks.
"Yes, Ingrge I can show you on a map where Deg Shanut is and where we sense the magic that shows us where The Twisted Run is located. Let's go over to the map room."
Sturtavent talks to a curtain and says, "Captain, we'll be going to the map room now."
He turns back to the group and smiles pleasantly. "We should give them about half a minute to prepare the route. Security is....tight right now."
"Would you like some Klah?" He gets a few coffee mugs and starts pouring. Thick brown coffee pours out into the cup.
--------- Totally understand the business of test week Kent. I know you heard me ranting about it.
WB, Donna.
I'll try to send ya a map, but the description will suffice if I can't.
I've sent the next months's stuff to Nellie. How long my scenes will last depends on several things.
K'Nara Thursday May 7th, 2009 1:14:21 AM
Assuming that Ingrge shares his knowledge about the origin of the dwarves, K'Nara's eyebrows rise as her thorough examination of the ex-dwarves reveals tattooing on their tongues.
"Say, Ingrge...what do you make of this..?" she asks, straightening up. "These Defenders have tattoos on their tongues. Do you recognize the pattern at all..?" As she speaks, she moves out ot the weapon mage's way so that he can see for himself.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Thursday May 7th, 2009 6:00:30 PM
"Almost resembles those Brahmah tattoos." He points to his tat.
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Thursday May 7th, 2009 10:42:30 PM
The warrior gratefully accepts the thick brown liquid which is almost chewy. It reminds him of an orcish delicacy...fermented honey and blood. Mmmm!! As he drinks the warrior slowly thinks about all the information he's been given....which takes a good deal of time considering the poor fellow's processor speed.
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Thursday May 7th, 2009 11:09:56 PM
Declining the Klah, and glad he did as he watches Gunther's expression of pleasure, Ingrge passes on what he has gleaned from the dwarves tattoos to the others.
Well once I get the information about Den Shanut, I suppose we should take care of catacombs business and then get some rest before we head out in the morning.
Almost as an after thought, remembering they had a dwarf among them again, Ingrge turns to Argam. Any of this make any sense to you? Do you know of this clan?
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Thursday May 7th, 2009 11:39:06 PM
"I think we can go to the map room about now. Follow me please."
You see him take on a more formal air as the doors open as he approaches.
"It will be good for the court to see us," he says as he leads the way to the central court between the two wings of the castle.
The crowd there doing business with the Mayor's office goes silence and eyes goggle as they see the HLM pass through.
"At ease folks. Just walking across."
The map room has rolled maps on one wall all placed in cubby holes and arranged in neat order. A wartable is in the center of the room with a glass case to the side which holds miniatures to use with the map to show war positions. On the right wall is a couple of easels with grips to hold maps carefully without tearing them.
An old man waits inside and looks up as you all enter.
Favor [DM Jerry] Thursday May 7th, 2009 11:40:46 PM
"Evening sir," Favor the map librarian intones.
"How can I help you this evening?"
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Thursday May 7th, 2009 11:45:24 PM
"We'd like to see a current map of The Scab, Favor."
"Favor, this is the Emerald Dragons. Emerald Dragons, this is Favor, finest mapmaker and cartographer in The Wold."
Favor accepting the praise as necessary gets up slowly holding his back and fetches the map. Carrying it to an easel, he opens it carefully, his hands feeling its surface showing his love for his work.
He gestures at the map and withdraws leaving the room by a back hidden door.
"As you can see, friends, here is the dwarven camp and here the large stream and waterfalls. When I add this clear overlay, you can see where the Star Tower has determined the Twisted Run to be. Again, note that there is no entrance shown."
Argam [DM Jerry] Thursday May 7th, 2009 11:47:01 PM
"Wow, incredible map. I didn't know there WERE that many dwarven camps and outposts in The Scab. Yep, we're an impressive bunch of folks....when we're not being turned into other odd things."
K'Nara d20=18 ; Friday May 8th, 2009 12:34:06 AM
K'Nara commits the tattoo to memory, briefly turning over the design in her mind to see if she can recall anything at all about it. (OOC: rolled an 18 for a voluntary Intelligence check...if her Knowledge of the Arcane is called into play here, the total for the check would be 27. Then she turns her attention to following along with the intelligence that Sturtavent is providing about the Twisted Run and the Scab.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Friday May 8th, 2009 12:21:12 PM
"I know very little about maps, but I know what I like! These are great, just in artist value alone." The elf looks around. "Have one of the northern Culver? A current one. I've been away far too long!"
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Monday May 11th, 2009 6:56:09 AM
Wow! Favor, these maps are beautiful! I would love to commision you soon to map out the Emerald Kingdom.
Looking at the map.
Hmm well I can most certainly get us there. the question then is do we find our way in or blast our way in.
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Monday May 11th, 2009 4:16:01 PM
"I guess you'll have to figure that one out once you get there. Or find one of the occupants of the place and follow them in? Perhaps persuade them to tell you?"
He pauses waiting for more questions.
"So, my friends. How can I help you further?
Argam [DM Jerry] Monday May 11th, 2009 4:21:23 PM
"I've been thinking about your question, Ingrge. I think I do indeed know of this clan. The Deg Shanut Clan is a surface clan. They have always remained separate since the clans started having their problems back in the 2nd age. They are one of the few itinerant small clans that claim to have never lost their own honor.
"However, I can't see any way for them to hold to that claim after these events. Sad really."
He hums an old dwarven ballad and then lets a few words of it flow.
"Pride and Greed. Pride and Greed How can we be free? Can we ever be free?"
----- Sorry I missed my post Friday. Feel free to berate me when I miss one. In fact you should.
Lian stands staring at one particularly beautiful map, with gold leaf, scroll work, etc.
K'Nara Monday May 11th, 2009 8:19:54 PM
"I have to admit," K'Nara says with a frown, "It disturbs me that a people who so very clearly prided themselves on maintaining their honor seem to have fallen so far and fast with this lycan epidemic." The tall redhead looks at her colleagues. "We must be careful, of course, but my gut is telling me that we should keep an open mind about how that clan may have gotten mixed up in this."
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Monday May 11th, 2009 11:28:36 PM
The warrior looks confused by all this talk of honor. "Vait, I thought Mr. Studervant said de pasty stuff changed dem. Den it's not really dere fault, is it?" Gunther rubs at his temple in irritation at the headache that is beginning to loom on the edges. Always happens when he tries to think too hard. "Look...vhy don't ve just head out and bust some heads?" he asks in what he hopes is a polite tone.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Tuesday May 12th, 2009 10:32:51 AM
"I'm all for busting heads Gunther, but KNara is right. Dwarves tend to honor themselves by first honoring their culture. I doubt they are willingly doing this to themselves. They are either being bewitched to use the stuff or there is something else in order.
I've been hearing and reading the publications.... you know, rumor mill pamphlets and rags... well, apparently Ga'al is being a handful in other parts of the known world. I think the followers are capable of anything." He thinks a moment. "Looking into things is a great idea."
He leans over to Gunther and whispers. "But opening hostile negotiations after the other options are no longer on the table...." He winks and grins.
Argam [DM Jerry] Tuesday May 12th, 2009 11:51:29 AM
"I like how you talk Liam. Bashing heads is good for the soul. Doing it to save lives?
...well its a beautiful thing."
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Tuesday May 12th, 2009 12:09:26 PM
"Well are you still interested in supper? I am always prepared for guests. Tonight we have a visiting Elven chef from the Floating City. Her area of expertise is in 'primitive dining.' She studies the diet and food preparation techniques of all primitive societies and adapts them for civilized folk.
"To be honest, I'm a bit queasy about the whole idea. My stomach in human form is quite delicate. I'd appreciate the company. However, if you want to get off and start tonight, that's totally understandable too."
He begins to walk to the door and holds it open while waiting for answers.
A smell wafts into the door of spicy meat and fresh vegetables.
"Smells interesting...."
"Oh, if you have any further questions ask away. You also have your rings if you need them to contact me. I would like reports when you have time.
"Remember to check with my new steward for potions and any mundane items that you need."
--------------- Yes, I know I'm posting early. I'm moving my posting time to daytime. I think I'll be more reliable this way.
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Tuesday May 12th, 2009 10:33:20 PM
Sure I thinkj we can join you. We have had a bit of a busy day. And besides I would like to spend some time tonight looking over some of the stuff we acquired. I think we would also like to make a quick journey to the Catacombs in the morning and then head off before mid day. Though I guess we will need to find someplace to stay for the night still.
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Tuesday May 12th, 2009 11:07:02 PM
Gunther nods at Lian, though he's not exactly sure what ne goat sations are. Still...best not to look dumb...nod your head and grin. "So dis Ga'al fellow...." the warrior stops in mid-sentence as the High Lord Mayor mentions "primitive dining". Big words, but he's grasps the gist. A goofy looking grin begins to form in the corners of his mouth. "Does she know about orc foods? I'm dying for some fried green ochers! Oh, and rat on a stick like Uncle Govrk used to make. Oh, oh...does she know how to make stuffed scorpions?!" A small dribble of drool makes its way to the corner of Gunther's mouth as he anticipates the potential of some "down home" cooking.
Argam [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 13th, 2009 11:42:52 AM
Argam rolls over with laughter.
"Well steal my gold and shave my beard, that's hilarious.
"Hey Gunther. Ga'al is a god. One of the Gods of Testing. He's the one that heartseeded everyone in Aisildur. I don't think Mr. Sturtavent has told us the name of the chef yet.
"Oh, and she's a he...I think."
Then he turns to Ingrge making a slicing motion to avoid this strange meal at all costs.
When Ingrge accepts for the group, he turns instantly and flashes a huge smile.
"Wonderful," he says through his forced smile.
Fame and Glory [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 13th, 2009 11:49:08 AM
Sturtavent brightens considerably once his invitation is accepted.
"The chef's name is Lola Treerunner. She is the talk of the town. I hope its good."
They go across the hall and through an empty room full of old armor and weapons--an old museum room. A group of young students from Star Tower are there studying a wand display on the wall. They stare open-mouthed as the group passes. They especially stare at Ingrge.
One young gnome girl faints when she sees him.
Sturtavent whispers, "Happens to me twice a week."
He makes to move on into the next room and holds the door open for the group.
"Just across the hall friends."
As he opens the door, the smells become more pronounced. This food is indeed strong of scent!
LianAC 41, hps 134 Wednesday May 13th, 2009 4:54:44 PM
The elf follows.
K'Nara Wednesday May 13th, 2009 9:14:05 PM
The scent of the dinner makes K'Nara smile indulgently at Gunther--she knows that he just LOVES any edibles that reminds him of his days with his orc tribe. As they go in to dinner, the tall redhead clarifies her slant on what may have happened to the dwarf clan that the EDs must now investigate:
"As I see it, there are two possibilities when it comes to the clan's involvement: either they knew what they were doing, or they were fooled or tricked into it. I certainly prefer to believe the second option, if only because of their racial pride in their code of honor. Gods help us all if it turns out that the clan willingly chose to infect themselves."
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Thursday May 14th, 2009 6:41:01 AM
In all honesty, I think it was neither one of those choices K'nara. I expect that maybe a sqaud of guards or a patrol were captured, turned into lycanthropes and then they were let loose to go back home. With the quick transformation rate we witnessed, it probably was less than a day before every member to that clan was infected. Of course I could be wrong.
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Thursday May 14th, 2009 4:10:18 PM
Gunther smiles at the laughing dwarf, but isn't really sure what's so funny. "Ok, so Ga'al's de veird von dat likes to put plants in people. I tink ve fought von of his qvads before. Got it." Funny, Brother Bertram wasn't as strange as this Argam guy....go figure.
Breathing deeply, Gunther literally bounces into the dinning area hand in hand with K'nara. "Oooo, boy, you're in for a treat! Maybe she'll start us out with baboon fingers. Just be careful if dey have fire beetle soup...it can be a little spicy..." The warrior prattles on about his dream cuisine, but laughs as the gnome faints. "Hey Lian....told you you should have taking dat bath!"
LianAC 41, hps 134 Thursday May 14th, 2009 5:32:25 PM
"Given the state of affairs, can't we assume this may have been a test for a larger scale attack? Say, drop some sleeper lycan into a community, infection spreads, etc. Test complete. Move onto Emerald Kingdom. Scab. Plateau City. etc
Or whatever."
Smelling the food, the monk dives in.
K'Nara Thursday May 14th, 2009 6:50:18 PM
K'Nara mulls over Ingrge's hypothesis.
"Another possibility that I'm hoping is true, then," she says, then turns her attention to being mildly decorous during the meal with Sturtavent. Gunther's warning about the fire beetle soup stays in her mind.
And A Good Time Was Had By Most... [DM Jerry] Thursday May 14th, 2009 11:47:20 PM
As you enter, a short elven woman with long bluish gray hair turns around.
"Did one of you say Fire Beetle Soup?" She spots Gunther.
"Ahh a Connoisseur!" She bows to Gunther and hands him a leafy bowl and a piece of sweetfruit filled with goats milk.
"You probably won't need the milk but the others may."
"No worries folks. I won't kill any of you promise!"
::skipping ahead::
The meal is enjoyed by....most. Afterwards, Sturtavent, who ate very little, thanks Lola for her hard work and wonderful food and dismisses her. Then he turns to the group.
"You are welcome to stay here in guest rooms or I can send ahead to book you anywhere in town you want to stay.
"Don't forget to check in with my steward for any mundane items you need or potions.
"For myself, I'm feeling a need to have some real food. He licks his lips in a very dragonlike way. So I"ll say my goodbyes now."
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Friday May 15th, 2009 6:42:50 AM
Having enjoyed the spiciness of the fire beetle soup, Ingrge tries a bit of everything, until the Zarthmoorian pickled sea slug was brought out, its odor turning the elf more than a bit green around the gills. Then Ingrge politely excused himself from the table for a moment as Gunther slurped his right down, squirting juices all over his front and increasing the amount of malodorous air in the room threefold.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Friday May 15th, 2009 6:58:30 AM
The monk takes the offer of a bed here and then says, "I assume the potions are limited in some way?"
Meet the HS [DM Jerry] Friday May 15th, 2009 1:10:14 PM
Sturtavent says, "Well don't clean us out. But take what you need, Lian."
It was good to see you all. Good fortune to you. May the Gods bless your endeavor.
He bows and withdraws.
Shortly, the door opens again and a VERY cute blond lady, in her twenties bounces in flanked by two guardsmen.
"You're the EDs. I've heard lots..
"I'm Mystery, the HS of the HLMC. Come. I have pots and mundanes."
And just as quickly as she entered, she leaves with a swoosh of her hands.
K'Nara Friday May 15th, 2009 10:05:11 PM
The sea slug is a bit much for K'Nara to eat, although her constitution is such that she at least has the fortitude to keep from turning green.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Monday May 18th, 2009 12:34:03 PM
Lian will stock up on potions, but limit himself to two apiece.
"Thanks much Lord Mayor."
(OCC: Please give me a price range as well as total number I can take. I will not over due things if we have a list. :))
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Monday May 18th, 2009 9:30:53 PM
K'Nara, You want I should take this stuff to go find out what it is? or shall we just wing it, take it along and see what happens?
K'Nara Monday May 18th, 2009 11:08:21 PM
"It would be nice to know what we have before we're in a position of having no choice but to use it," K'Nara answers Ingrge. "Find out now if you can."
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Tuesday May 19th, 2009 10:10:43 AM
Gunther looks over at Ingrge. "Ven ve are in combat, I could use Stoneskin and Enlarge person as vell as Enlarge Animal. Do you tink it vould be best for me to get potions or buy some scrolls?"
Short and to the Point [DM Jerry] Tuesday May 19th, 2009 11:00:46 AM
"This is the HLMC! We have all pots. State what you need. But be reasonable. They DO cost gold to keep in stock."
"So no mundanes?"
She is short and to the point, tending to acronyms so he can say things with fewer words. She is quickly appraising you and taking notes for her files of observations. While you talk, she paces nervously thinking about all the time she's wasting helping you at the mayor's request.
Mystery is all about efficiency, except for her dress and style. She always dresses in the latest styles and off work is a popular socialite.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Tuesday May 19th, 2009 3:51:44 PM
"Of course, of course. But from all these choices?! Wow, its gonna be difficult."
"Gunther is right, Stoneskin is a good idea."
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Wednesday May 20th, 2009 4:30:56 PM
The warrior rubs his chin. "Den I vill take an Enlarge Person. I tink I vill buy some stoneskin scrolls or if ve all are interested, den maybe ve can buy a vand."
The warrior taps his chin. "Now, how do ve get an Animal Growth on my kitty..." The warrior looks over at Ingrge. "is dat von of dose spells you can cast from a scroll?"
LianAC 41, hps 134 Wednesday May 20th, 2009 7:24:49 PM
"Maybe a couple of healing potions, an invis or two, gaseous form, fly or two for those who can''t easily..." he rambles off a handful of others. "Any ideas folks?"
Dismissal [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 20th, 2009 8:38:51 PM
Mystery goes to the door for a second and summons another subordinate. She whispers something then returns.
"Those staying will be in the Dragon Suite. Here's a magic key. The key will lead you to the room. Ring the bell when you're ready to give me your orders. I have other work to do.
"Good evening."
As she leaves, someone comes and whispers in her ear again.
She answers.
"Yes, we're all working late tonight again. Yes. Get prepared. Yes. Get to it."
She walks quickly away.
-----------------
Nellie, you're on for Monday I think. I'm pretty much done.
Everyone thank Nellie who is more adept than I and was able to subdivide the .pdf file with no problems and keep it in .pdf format.
Argam Wednesday May 20th, 2009 8:40:00 PM
"Well, guys I think I"m going to ask her out. She's rather special don't you think?"
He stares after the steward and shakes his head in wonderment that Sturtavent would pick such a person as his personal steward.
K'Nara Wednesday May 20th, 2009 11:06:44 PM
K'Nara smiles as she listens to the dwarven Fixer.
"Well, I found her enigmatic, Argam," she admits, "But perhaps you can unravel her...mystery."
K'Nara Friday May 22nd, 2009 1:03:25 AM
"Shopping lists, I think," K'Nara points out the obvious, "We need to think on what we'll be needing for this trip...probably a few full-blown Heal potions, in case any of us get bitten or poisoned with that 'blacktooth paste' stuff. I can imagine that will NOT be a pretty sight should that happen."
The Shopping List of Heroes [DM Jerry] Friday May 22nd, 2009 9:05:19 PM
And so our brave heroes rest as best they can, with dreams of helping the dwarves, saving the Scab and preventing the latest attempts of Ga'al and his followers to terrorize the good people of Elenna.
They make plans, as any wartime group does, but with an eye on preparation and forward thinking. Watch and study--younglings and oldlings alike. Study them. For they are...
HEROES.
----------
back from field trip. still alive. a good thing.
Nellie takes over on Monday unless she needs me to keep going.
K'Nara Saturday May 23rd, 2009 12:03:08 AM
K'Nara makes sure that Mystery includes eight Heal potions in the rest of the order from her fellow Emerald Dragons.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Saturday May 23rd, 2009 12:53:00 PM
"Heal, yes, good idea."
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Monday May 25th, 2009 2:33:27 PM
(ooc: Sorry for lack of posting, school is in the middle of testing and exams........though I have been in the catacombs waiting for assistance, since last Tuesday.)
Ok boss lady, this is what the catacombs said we acquired. (or will tell us once someone bothers to show up to help people)
+1 staff 2 Rings of protection +2 Amulet of natural armor +1 Cloak of protection +3 Headband of intellect +2 Master work crossbow 750 gps of ruby dust 500 gps of diamond dust Silver dwarven hammer +1 Composite Long bow +1 (strength +3) Boots of the Winterlands Broach of shielding (fully charged)
What do you want we should do with this stuff?
Argam Monday May 25th, 2009 7:00:19 PM
Argam looks at the pile with open mouth.
"Is this a regular haul for you guys? I....can't be."
He takes a few steps back as if that much magic could indeed warp his brain.
"Amazing!"
K'Nara Monday May 25th, 2009 11:24:42 PM
"My, my, these weres came rather nicely equipped, didn't they..?" K'Nara murmurs as she looks over the list of the stuff the transformed dwarves had on them. Then she looks sharply around her.
"Do any of you have a need for any of the items on this list..? Speak now, or forever hold your peace while Ingrge sells off the lot for whatever gold he can get.."
Shopping [DM Jerry] Monday May 25th, 2009 11:35:44 PM
And so our brave heroes go shopping. A very dangerous sport where the survival of the party is at risk with each deadly negotiation.
Will they survive to return to their peaceful adventuring? Or will they succomb to the dangers of shopping?
Only time will tell.
--------------------------- [Ready for Nellie to DM.]
Gunther, AC33 HP87/145 Charm Animal, Stone Skin 96/150, Bless and Delila AC20, HP60/72, Bless Tuesday May 26th, 2009 12:32:47 AM
The warrior looks over at K'nara. "I don't mind getting some use out of some of dis stuff, but it feels bad keeping it. If ve could find out who it belonged to, I'd rader give it to de families or someting like dat."
OOC: Hey folks, I'll start posting come tomorrow. Let's get this loot wrapped up soon so we can get out there and kick some hind quarters. ;)
LianAC 41, hps 134 Tuesday May 26th, 2009 8:05:08 PM
Lian waves his hand casually. "Sell it."
As Gunther said, let's get this one. We should still all be posting daily.
Argam Tuesday May 26th, 2009 11:10:33 PM
Argam visits the temple to check in with his superiors as well as those who were until recently under his training.
Then as the party is busy, he takes on a short term fixer assignment and is back at the Mayor's Castle to work on the front facade near the gate that he'd noticed when the party first arrived there.
"Sloppy work! Sloppy!"
R&R and Shopping Lists (DM Nellie) Tuesday May 26th, 2009 11:10:44 PM
The Dragon Suite is quite comfortable, and all of the Emerald Dragons enjoy a delightful night's rest. Quite the change from the almost mundane perils of adventuring.
Morning comes and everyone finds themselves rested. Spells are memorized, exercises are performed, and most importantly, the plans are made for the day to come. On the list...final plans for the loot, a shopping trip to the Catacombs, and of course, a list of potions for Mystery. There is also the matter of deciding when to head to the camp...and of course, figuring out how to get in...
OOC: Don't want to rush stuff, but I'd like to get through the loot, etc. in the next couple of days if possible. :)
LianAC 41, hps 134 Wednesday May 27th, 2009 1:06:50 PM
OOC: Hey all, I was just suspended from my job. Before it sounds too bad, I was sort of expecting it. I will be busy for the next couple of weeks looking into school and work elsewhere, so, if I miss a few posts, I apologize.
IC: Lian waits to get his gold.
Ingrge: AC 32, HP: 123/123, SR 18, Arcane Sight, See Invisibility, Spectral hand Wednesday May 27th, 2009 10:04:01 PM
Ingrge looks around at the group.
Argam, anyone? Can any of you use any of this or shall I sell it all?
K'Nara Wednesday May 27th, 2009 10:19:34 PM
"Sell it, Ingrge," K'Nara's voice breaks the telltale silence. "We can keep the gold and give it to any of the clan members that are entitled to it if it turns out that we can find them. Meanwhile, everyone should make sure they have the equipment we'll be needing for this trip..."
Argam goes back to inspect the work he did on the HLM Castle. "Wish I had time to finish the job, but I'm part of the Emerald Dragons now and I need to go save some lives. Kinda cool."
Gunther Wednesday May 27th, 2009 11:37:48 PM
The warrior nods in agreement. "I don't tink I can use dat stuff eider." He tags along with anyone wishing to head over to the Catacombs. He also makes sure that he makes sure that whoever gets back in touch with Mystery puts him down for 2 Enlarge Person potions.
Moving Right Along... (DM Nellie) Wednesday May 27th, 2009 11:45:40 PM
Orders for potions are made and shopping is done. Always a pleasure to do business in civilized company. But, like all good things, the time at the HLM Castle passes quickly, and soon it is time to get back to business. New gear is packed, goodbyes are said, and the Dragons find themselves ready to head out toward the dwarven complex. (Are we using the teleport rings to get there?)
OOC: Alrighty, go ahead and finish up the Cat's stuff this week. Jay needs some backup in the Mithril Order, so it looks like I'll be taking over there and waiting until next time in the Dragons.
Jerry Thursday May 28th, 2009 12:07:10 AM
OK, Nellie is going to have problems DMing two games right now. She's jumping in to sub for Jay and that game is in the middle of combat--a tough thing to do.
So we need to skip on to the next DM which is Donna. I"ll cover for the rest of this week and try to get us to the next location.
Nellie, can you send Donna her scenes? I sent an email showing the scenes she is responsible for. Donna, if you can't do it, Jay is next on the list and he can't go. That would leave Kent.
So speak up Donna and let me know if you can honestly take this on. If not we'll beg Kent. :)
......taking this to email now. Wanted to make one post here though in case folks weren't checking emails very often.
Nellie Thursday May 28th, 2009 12:43:28 PM
Module is sent. :) Have fun Donna.
LianAC 41, hps 134 Friday May 29th, 2009 1:42:50 AM
OOC: Just so you all know, I may be losing my job and so I'm spending free time looking at school and other jobs. I figure using my unemployed status might be a good reason to go back to school. So, thats the issue
IC: Lian looks at items a bit closer. "Goofy gear. Sell it."
K'Nara Friday May 29th, 2009 1:51:11 PM OOC from the DM taking over: Hopefully the transaction for the stuff that the party needs to get rid of will be finished by Monday's post, which is when the game will move on to the next part of the module.
So far, I know that K'Nara's "shopping list" has Healing potions on it...please list whatever else your character will want from Mystery the potions 'n' notions lady so that I can approve its addition onto your various character sheets.
Good luck, adventurers!
8)
LianAC 41, hps 134 Friday May 29th, 2009 3:33:58 PM
"The potions should be versatile because who knows what we'll run into?"
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