DM Cayzle - The Ahote Thursday October 15th, 2009 4:00:19 PM
OOC: Hey, thanks for the kind wishes! Turns out wife probably tore something in her knee, but is going to be fine.
Old business: So far as I can tell, you left your horses tied off on June 9-10 of this year with no mention of Ahote scouts left behind. The last mention of Honaw by the DM was on April 27, during the gnoll fight. Still, party members thought he was around on Aug. 25. The DM rules that he stayed with the horses at the cold lake. Which, by the way, did not seem so cold when you came out of the fissure from the caves.
More Old business: Per Jet: We were also going to go back and search the cave complex more throughly. I think there are some things we missed, like checking all of the huts as well as the various side passages.
You do find that there was an empty hut, just like the ones the kids were kept in. It had three cots, about a dozen barrels, two filled with water, six empty, four with pickles, hardtack, and rations. Finally, there were two small chests, locked. Jet brings the chests back.
New Post: It takes the better part of four days to get back to the area surrounding Misu Dar, the Ahote village, and Bryn Baraz, your own encampment. That's mostly because the kids slow you down, although the broken terrain -- especially near the lake and mesa, where the ground is hard and plants are scarce -- also slows you down. An experienced druid or ranger could likely have done it in two days.
Anyway, the dust cloud you see over the prairie does not disturb Honaw at all ... he correctly identifies it as riders of his people. Several of you advance to meet them. You know the wise shaman, Istaqua, and the Ahote chief, Dasan, and his son, Muata.
You note the presence of a shaman, dressed very like Istaqua, with fierce eyes. You have not met him before. He is a little younger than Istaqua, but his dress is more regal, and he has an air of authority about him.
You recognize the stylized greeting of the Ahote, and even maybe by now can return it, sort of. But you see that the eyes of the chief are focused behind you, on the kids.
And soon there is a reunion! The Ahote may be of mixed blood -- part elf, part human, part humanoid -- but some things are universal, and even a people hardened by life in a harsh dry land will weep when their most precious treasures are restored to them.
The new shaman shouts out in the Ahote tongue -- if you can understand that, Please Highlight to display spoiler: {It has come to pass as I foresaw! Istaqua gave a true warning, and I have foreseen our deliverance!}
Sense Motive DC15: Highlight to display spoiler: { Honaw seems surprised at seeing the new shaman and hearing his words.}
Jet Stormway (AC:20(enlarged)/22 HP:19/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20+5=17 ; d20+5=14 ; Thursday October 15th, 2009 4:11:59 PM
Jet doesn't like the look on the Shamans face, as he stares at the children. Why wouldn't he be more happy to see the future of his tribe returned. Jet would like to first do a Sense Motive on him, before his words, which Jet does not understand.
Sense Motive on Shaman: 17
DM's request DC 15: 14 (fails)
Jet Stormway (AC:20(enlarged)/22 HP:19/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Thursday October 15th, 2009 5:39:38 PM OOC: DM, if it took us four days to get back, we would have had plenty of time to question the prisoner also. I know it's a little late for that now and you want to move the game along, but we could have got a little something from him, wouldn't we?
Ender [AC 18, HP 26/26] d20+5=19 ; Thursday October 15th, 2009 7:20:19 PM
Ender stays in the back trying to gauge what the Shaman is about even though he doesnt understand the language
Sense motive: 19
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) d20+7=10 ; d20=8 ; d20+1=9 ; Thursday October 15th, 2009 10:24:32 PM
OOC: oh, um... I thought we were going to deliver the children to Honaw and let him and his friends take the children back while we heal up and go back in to finish off the 'thing' that took them in the first place.
oh well, nothing like a good party first, then go back to fighting. :)
Oh, and I'm going to assume we are all healed up and, like Jet said, questioned the prisoner, real good, with flail twirling just above his head, the way Alexi is good at intimidating.
Intimidate: d20+7 = 10, oh, that was real good, just peachy keen, way to go Alexi.
So, Aid another d20=8, pft, can't even do that! Alexi must be trying while still at only 5 hpts...
IC: Alexi does not understand the new shaman, but is more taken up with delivering the children and talking to Muata. He manages a glance here and there for Muata's sister, although he only knows what she looks like from Honaw's description.
If he manages it, he will talk to Istaqa appart from the new shaman and tell him that there is still some unfinished business where they found the children.
Sense Motive DC15 d20+1=9. He's too busy looking for Muata's sister I guess. :)
Keela Friday October 16th, 2009 1:22:02 AM
Keela smiles at the sight of the reunion. She nods politely to the newcomer, assuming that Istaqua or somebody will tell them who he is if it's important.
DM Cayzle - Back to the Future I Friday October 16th, 2009 8:06:41 AM
Just to get the "interrogation" out of the way: The captive seems eager to avoid any problems. He says he and his mate were hired by a wizard in Plateau City to come here and do a job. The "Boss" used a teleport scroll to get here. "The job was to kidnap some kids, but not to hurt them. Make sure the ice demon didn't hurt them either. That was it. Nobody gets hurt."
"Then the Boss says we gotta fight you guys and get the kids back. He used a spell to shrink the food and stuff, and said we should set up a fight at that chokepoint, witht he unshrunk barrels."
"The Boss is a half-elf with a long purple robe. Once, from what he said, we got the idea that he wanted to pin the kidnapping on you guys or your friends and get the natives mad at you."
The captive seems honest. Look up there at the die roll field -- no Bluff check rolls. Probably he's not telling all he knows, but he's being straight up about what he does say.
He is really afraid of the "Boss" and the Ahote. He begs you to either set him free or kill him instead of giving him to the Ahote. "Look, I'm no doe-eyed innocent, sure, but I don't hurt kids or torture people. If those natives get their hands on me, I'm gonna take a lot of hurt before they finish their torturin'. Honest, kill me now, nice and fast and clean, please! Wardd can take me home, I got no problem with that."
"Or take me to that camp you gots. I can work in a mine real hard."
For what it's worth, the kids confirm that these two people did take care of them while they were imprisoned.
DM: Let's resolve this point before we go back (forward) in time to the meeting with the Ahote.
Jet Stormway (AC:20(enlarged)/22 HP:19/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Friday October 16th, 2009 11:30:49 AM
Jet would tell him like it is as his finger points to the symbol of Pantheon, one in a pattern of all the gods, emblazoned on his chest. "You and I will both face the judgement of the Ahote. It was likely my decision to let that sniviling little weasel go, that kidnapped Lollena, that has caused this."
Jet's jaw set in stone, his heart wrenches at the thought, if only he had killed that weasel, perhaps this never would have happened.
"Your life may be over, but it's how you leave it that is up to you! Right now, you have no honor or integrity, your soul is on a path. Let the remainder of your life be set to good will and helping these people and perhaps Gargul will send you to a better place."
Jet will try to keep him safe from those that came out to meet them.
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Friday October 16th, 2009 11:32:20 AM
Changed heading
Keela Friday October 16th, 2009 3:27:19 PM
Keela says nothing aloud about the fate of the prisoner, but her face bears a troubled frown.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Friday October 16th, 2009 10:46:16 PM
Alexi shows no emotion as the man spills his story. It's like Wido and the other hooligans hired by Mavitus to kiddnap Lollena.They tried to kill them all and would not have shown any mercy. So why show mercy now? But Alexi was not the executioner sort either. Specialy without a proper trial.
Memories of the skinned half-orc on the trail in the canyon lands also haunted Alexi. Did he want that sort of thing to happen to this guy, however bad he may be? The only thing going for him was that he did not harm the little ones.
"Don't berrate yourself, Jet," Alexi states. "I hardly think that Mavitus guy is behind this. How was that pipsqueak to know anything about the Ahote people? I'm more inclined to think it is related to the bandit attack on the caravan. However was behind the bandit attack was intend on guarantying the failure of Bryn Baraz. Same here. If this purple clad half-elf seems also intend on the failure of Bryn Baraz. Mavitus was not smart enough to organize such a convoluted plot as this."
While camping the first night on their way back to the Ahote village, Alexi speaks to his friends when they are not in earshot of Honaw. "So what do we do? I want this guy to have a fair trial by the Ahote. I will have a clear conscious regardless of what they decide. But if we take him to Bryn Baraz instead, we need to have a very convincing argument. I'm sure the Ahote are not going to take such a suggestion lightly."
DM Cayzle Saturday October 17th, 2009 6:55:16 AM
If I get a post from Ender, I'll do an extra DM post this weekend.
Ender [AC 18, HP 26/26] Saturday October 17th, 2009 2:22:35 PM
"Let bring him to Ahote, then tell them we need him to identify the person behind this, then if they want we can have him brought back so he can face their judgement" Ender says
DM Cayzle - Feasting and Rejoicing Saturday October 17th, 2009 3:55:20 PM
With nothing further to say, the captive falls silent. Maybe he is resigning himself.
Jet and Ender are suspicious of the new shaman and try to get a read on him. It is clear that he is proud. and has the air of one who thinks he should be in charge. He also seems antagonistic toward you all, if the way he is glaring means anything.
But Istaqua's smile is wide, and his gratitude -- and friendship -- is clear. As soon as the greeting rituals are over, he rushes over to Keela and Alexi and, most of all, the kids. He greets each one by name and brings them to their parents.
The chief and his son watch, grinning.
After the kids are back with their parents, Istaqua raises his hands high and says, "Praise Catori, those who were lost have been found! And these foreigners are the ones who returned them, as I foresaw. Let us celebrate and be glad, for these people have shown themselves to be our friends!"
He invites you to rest in his yurt, and to get ready for a great feast this afternoon.
Once you are in his yurt, you can have some private conversation.
==========
OOC: I would like to spend just a few posts here at the end of this module. Now is the time to talk with Istaqua and the other Ahote, check out your loot (don't forget the five gnoll weapons Alexi picked up), deal with the prisoner, gather info, and get xp. Question: When was the last time you all got any XP? Thanks!
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20+5=23 ; Sunday October 18th, 2009 1:10:21 PM
Jet will go into much detail on what occurred during their trek into the area and describes to the people, a very secure complex of caves with a fresh water source.
He also tells Istaqua, that a very powerful mage is responsible for all of these happenings and that this individual can assume the form of any one or any thing.
he tries very hard to understand the new member of the tribe we haven't seen before and uses Diplomacy skills, to attempt to put some suspicions on the shoulders of the man that was glaring at them all and why he was unhappy when clearly, everyone else was and should have been.
As well, the man they returned, although guilty of being a part pf the plan, he also is the only person that knows anything about the true criminal and he may be needed to help identify them, if they become present.
Diplomacy: 23
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Sunday October 18th, 2009 1:11:54 PM
ooc: Well, we all just went up while we slept over night in the cave complex. I think we gained some experience then.
Keela Monday October 19th, 2009 1:20:56 AM
Keela smiles at everyone, and says things like, "We were happy to help," and, "We're just glad the children are back safely."
In the privacy of the yurt, she asks her friends, "Who is that other man? The important-looking one? Have we offended him somehow?"
DM Cayzle Monday October 19th, 2009 10:37:22 AM
Meh. I want to get back on a Morning-DM-Post schedule, so I'm not posting today. See you tomorrow bright and early!
Ender [AC 18, HP 26/26] Monday October 19th, 2009 4:35:13 PM
Ender goes up to Jeti and whispers "I dont think that shaman is too fond of us, can you check with Istaqua who he is and what his story is?"
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Monday October 19th, 2009 10:58:03 PM
Alexi rejoices with Istaqa and makes sure to point to the others, Beren, Caelnin, Jet, Fatine, Keela, and Ender, as vital participants of the rescue. Only later does he realize the new shaman seems a bit aloof from the celebrations.
However, the promise of a feast later on, and the prospect of some rest before then, gives him little time to ask about the young shaman. Not until he has seen to the care of Lobo and the other horses, and goat, does he enter Istaqa's yurt.
Appraised of Jet's words to Istaqa on the fate of their prisoner, Alexi nods his head in agreement. "Good thinking, Jet," he says smiling. Whispering to Jet, he asks, "So, who's the new shaman? He's rather creepy, wouldn't you say? If one were the suspicious sort, one would suspect him of possibly being under the influence, or pay, of our nemsis wizard 'friend'."
Like the other's, when Istaqa comes in, he ask who the new shaman is.
DM Cayzle Tuesday October 20th, 2009 4:47:14 PM
Friends, my parents were in a car crash yesterday afternoon. Fortunately, there are no life-threatening injuries, but both my folks have broken bones. My mom is in the ICU. My dad is home with a broken heel bone, and he needs a LOT of help getting around and doing things. I'm taking care of him today and tomorrow. Posting here will be sporadic at best. Sorry.
DM Cayzle - The Prodigal Shaman Tuesday October 20th, 2009 8:12:37 PM
Istaqa sits down with you. He tells you that the new shaman is one who was sent away from the tribe, but who returned very recently for expiation. He is reluctant to say more about tribal matters among outsiders, even those who are friends.
"He may see all outlanders, like you, as potential enemies. Indeed, even so would I have seen you, but for the power of the visions that led me to trust. Led me, I am happy to say, to a tragedy averted, for which we are indeed grateful."
"You will be guests of honor, with all the children, at a celebration this evening. And after that, when the moons bear witness on high, there will be justice for the one who has so injured us."
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday October 20th, 2009 8:36:33 PM
OOC: Sorry to hear about your parents. Glad to hear it wasn't worse. Post as you can, even if it's just to let us know how they are doing.
IC: "We also are very grateful for the vision. For without that, war between us would have been inevitable. However, we are friends and pledged to help the Ahote through hard times and keep watch for any more who would harm your people," Alexi says and embraces Istaqa.
"Perhaps in time he will see differently, perhaps not. But the stories we'll tell tonight should leave no doubt among the Ahote that we are honorable friends. And we'll tell our people how the Ahote are honorable friends as well."
At the mention of 'justice' at high moon, Alexi gulps. He's done plenty of killing, and seen executions, but nothing like what they saw stretched out on boards in the canyon, which had led them to seek out the native people and bargain for peace so many months before.
Keela Wednesday October 21st, 2009 12:26:12 AM
"I certainly hope we can be friends," Keela says. "We will be neighbors, after all, and shouldn't neighbors help one another?"
Ender [AC 18, HP 26/26] Wednesday October 21st, 2009 10:01:09 AM
OOC: Sorry to hear about your parents!
"Friends is second only to family, and i do hope we can be friends!" Ender seconds
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Wednesday October 21st, 2009 11:00:39 AM
Jet wants information on what this trial by the moon is and wants details on how he will be judged, as well as his punishment. "Are there varying degrees of guilty?"
Jet also has to admit, "I am unsure of our course, but it could be my fault, that your people have been brought to this situation. There was a powerful man that we let go. Well, he wasn't powerful, but his family is. If it is they that seek revenge, because of my actions, then I am just as to blame as the man that fed your children, perhaps more so. I freely give myself to your judgements as well."
In his heart, he believes the new shaman is responsible, but without evidence, none of which was found in the caves, it would be futile to attempt to convince them of this.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Wednesday October 21st, 2009 8:28:39 PM
Alexi shrugs at Jet's comments. The cavalryman has his own ideas as to who was behind the kidnappings. But Alexi is not ready to divulge to the Ahote Tarketh's magical orb and the secret organization trying to prevent Bryn Baraz to succeed.
This wizard's plan was to blame the kidnappings on the newcomers, but he had not calculated that these 'newcomers' would already be befriended by the Ahote. The power of the Ahote god through the dreams proved greater than that of their enemies.
But Alexi remains silent on that and removes his armor and weapons and seeks a place to clean himself up a bit. Water being scarce, he does the best he can. If their is to be a party, he doesn't want to stink.
To that, he approaches Keela and mumbles, rather embarassingly, something about a spell that cleans things and takes bad smells away. "If there is a dance, and you accept my invitation to dance with me, I don't want to cause you any distress by my pungent aroma," he explains, trying to keep from getting any redder than the days in the sun has made him.
DM Cayzle - Coming Attractions Thursday October 22nd, 2009 6:00:23 PM Alexi, Keela, and Ender all emphasize the growing friendship between the party and the Ahote. The shaman returns their emotion, albeit with some greater measure of dignity -- Alexi may get the feeling that one generally does not hug a shaman, but Istaqa does not seem offended. Not really.
Alexi and Jet keep their doubts about the newly arrived shaman to themselves. But doubts surely exist.
Jet, though, wants to hear more about the "justice" to be administered. He seems somehow to seek mercy for the prisoner, or to volunteer to accept his punishment.
Istaqa frowns and explains. After the feast, those who are wronged -- the parents of the kidnapped children, tonight -- will gather in a circle, armed with whatever weapons they desire. The prisoner will stand at the center of the circle, unarmed.
The prisoner will be given a chance to speak, as will the parents. Sometimes a prisoner's words move justice seekers to mercy.
The parents are free to attack the prisoner, and he to fight back with only his hands and body, until either the prisoner is dead or the moon has set.
Before that happens, it is possible that one or more or all the parents will leave the circle, either because they are wounded, or because they are satisfied with the justice they have delivered. If all the parents leave the circle before the prisoner is dead, then he shall live and go free.
If the prisoner manages to escape the circle before the moon sets, he will be shot down and boarded, as you have seen before. If he dies in the circle, his body will be boarded as well, as a final justice and warning.
"So you see, new ally Jet," says the shaman, "You could never take the prisoner's place. The parents have no ill-will toward you, and there is no justice in hurting or killing a friend."
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Thursday October 22nd, 2009 11:05:10 PM
'That's pretty grim, but these are their ways,' ponders Alexi.
"Then so be it," he says to Istaqa. "I'll be there to see what he has to say. By the way, were any of the children lost or were they all returned."
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20+5=9 ; Friday October 23rd, 2009 3:51:58 PM
"What if the one under judgement disarms one of the parents? Is he allowed to keep that weapon for future battles?"
Jet asks as he is curious about the laws of this land. he really wishes he could spend more time with these peoples and perhaps he will, when his contract is up. They seem honourable to him and he believes, introducing them to the gods of the Wold would not only enhance their belief system in right and wrong, but also increase their power, moving from shamans of the past to clerics of the future. he goes on to ask, what the tribe thinks of the vast complex and shelter where they found the children, explaing the fresh water and ample food in the area.
"Yes, there are gnolls and such in the region, but perhaps, it was a sign that more exists for your people elsewhere, making life easier to thrive. From all we have heard of your current status, the Ahote are endangered and that saddens me, when it is possible to once again grow in strength."
Attempting to put the Ahote at ease, he goes on to ask Istaqua if just him and Jet could speak alone. If he agrees he will ponder with the elder, if the time frame for the shamans return was also fore ordained or if he had to accomplish some mission in order to return? "The reason I ask is, someone wants to see our communities clash. Is it possible this shaman of yours was possessed by a more powerful creature? If so, then he too needs to be rescued and his spirit returned to his body."
Diplomacy: 9 (Yuck, I hope this doesn't get him mad.)
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Friday October 23rd, 2009 8:37:57 PM
OOC: I'm off to the mountains of New Mexico and hope to be able to post again on Nov 2. There should be a sub, Jay, from the L&B, but if he misses some posts, fell free to post for Alexi. He don't want to miss the party. :)
Ender [AC 18, HP 26/26] Friday October 23rd, 2009 8:44:20 PM
"If we let them go through with this, there is a good chance they will kill him" Ender says, "And that will leave us without our only solid lead... the question is, can we let this happen? that and the morality of letting an armed group have their way with an unarmed prisoner"
Alexi ((Jay - sub)) (AC:17, HP 34/34) Lobo (AC:19, HP:37/37) Saturday October 24th, 2009 12:11:32 AM
Alexi, having given due consideration to the plight of the prisoner, clears his throat to get the attention of Istaqa. Leaning forward Alexi speaks softly a word of advice, "This prisoner may be of some use to my people. I do not seek to dishonor your ways as justice must be served but I will ask you to consider a thought. Though the parents might be seen as the victims of the crimes, the children are the real victims. Find one of the children who is well spoken and respected. Have the child address the adults gathered to judge. If this man was cruel to the children the rage from the parents will be great and rightly so. But if this man was fair to them or even in some part caring, the parents might more readily stay their hand. Either way you will be sure that justice was served this night. If he survives, give him unto our care and we will transport him away from you."
Alexi leans back having said his council and gives Istaqa a broad smile showing that he means to stay out of it from here forward.
============================ ooc: Let me know if anything is out of place as far as posting guidelines go. I'm only filling in for a week or so, hopefully I won't massacre the style this character is played.
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Saturday October 24th, 2009 1:43:30 AM
ooc to Jay- Highlight to display spoiler: { Alexi has a semi crush on Keela, always making sure she is alright and wanting to make sure she is safe and comfortable.}
:)
Keela Saturday October 24th, 2009 10:01:06 PM
Keela looks pale when the justice process is described. "We don't have to watch, do we?" she asks her companions in an undertone.
DM Cayzle - The Feast and the Justice Monday October 26th, 2009 11:35:27 PM
Alexi seems resigned to accept the Ahote ways of justice. He is told that all children are safe and accounted for. Istaqa again says that the kidnapper will have a fair chance to speak his mind and sway the hearts of the parents.
Jet asks about the ability of the kidnapper to take a weapon from a parent and fight. That is allowed, he is answered, since this is a trial by combat, and if a person under judgement can fight off his accusers, even though the odds are stacked against him, then surely he deserves to live. The shaman adds that the area the children were kept is taboo, and cannot be entered, until it is purified and cleansed by nature and time. Finally, Istaqa meets with Jet in private and tells him that although he did not forsee the shaman's return, the shaman who returned said that he had visions of the children, and those visions brought him back. Istaqa says this is credible, he thinks, and is a little short with Jet.
Ender is very unsure that the "justice" of the Ahote is actually just.
Keela finds out that she is not required to witness the administration of justice.
The feast is a marvel, especially at the last minute. Low long tables are set out, and eveyone sits on mats on the ground. The tables are piled high with treats both wonderful and unusual. There are whole roasted goats, amazing mashed fruit drinks (some a little harder than others), fried plantains and breadfruit, potatoes and manioke and other root crops baked in underground ovens, rare fish caught at the oasis, garnished with dates and figs, blood puddings and fermented milk and more!
The two shamans tell stories of the cataclysm of an age gone by, and the ways the Ahote have survived. The children sing several songs to thank you for their rescue. You are festooned and decorated with flowers and beads and bells, bestowed by the children on you with grins and laughter.
The feast continues, and there is no way you can finish the food set before you. At last, after desserts of sweet nut mash and honeyed bone jelly, there is a quiet time for reflection. Two amateur musicians play drums and pan-pipes. The feast is cleared away. At length, the prisoner is brought out. In a little while the moons will be at their peak. Well, the moon named Kerracles will be, and that seems to be enough.
The kidnapper seems confused about what will happen. Flanked by his guards, he asks what is happening.
"Are they going to kill me now? Please make it fast! Don't let them torture me!"
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20+5=8 ; Tuesday October 27th, 2009 12:58:27 AM
Jet shrugs. Of course, the one place that offers shelter, water and some degree of safety, minus the blasted flying things that have darkness, would be taboo.
Jet apologizes to Istaqua, if he was insulted, but Jet continues to have his own doubts about this shaman, especially this so called vision of his. yea, he had a vision and I'm a virgin., Jet thinks, but does not say this out loud.
Normally he would drink his fill and become quite boistrous, perhaps chasing around a few of Ma Belles' girls. That's his kind of celebration, but he takes it all in good graces and he finally gets a chance to try some of the local alcohol he had heard about, that was served during special occassions. He doesn't drink his fill, saving that for after the justice.
Jet stands up when the prisoner walks out to face his judgement. Neither a smile or a frown upon his face. In fact, it is likely the first time Jet has never showed emotion. "Shut up and listen to their words, then you may speak in turn. Honor your last minutes with pride and think of others besides yourself. Tell them the truth and let your heart sing, that if you die, which is possible, Gargul will reward you instead of condemn you and be thankful, you have a chance to live, instead of us honoring your wishes back at the caves and killing you immedietly. Now, disrobe and face your judgement. If you live tonight, think hard about your future employers!"
He looks around, to see if the new shaman is present. Pantheon knows, he wishes he were wrong and if he had any idea he was right, the prayer to Jancassius he made at the start of their search for the children would be honored, as secretly and quietly as possible.
Diplomacy rolls are suckiiiinnnggggg!: 8 (Jet might be tried before the night is done.)
Alexi ((Jay - sub)) (AC:17, HP 34/34) Lobo (AC:19, HP:37/37) Tuesday October 27th, 2009 8:56:06 AM
Alexi remains rather quiet as the feast takes place. He spends his time observing the parents of the children to gauge their demeanor and making sure Keela is fine... at least that's the reason he tells himself for the occasional glance. His stoic nature does break when the children sing songs of heroes and begin to adorn them with flowers and bells and such. He laughs as the children do, showing a younger more free version of himself. A lone tear of joy glistening on his cheek is evidence of the impact these children have had on him.
Rubbing a full belly he watches as the prisoner is lead out. Alexi chooses to hold his peace until someone starts explaining the situation to the prisoner, though he does give a look to Keela as if to say "You might want to leave now..."
Keela Tuesday October 27th, 2009 11:26:47 PM
Keela remembers some of the dishes from their last feast with the Ahote, and she tries to enjoy some of the favorites she remembers. Her stomach is in knots, though, and she wishes the Ahote's idea of justice wasn't so...unforgiving.
As the time for the justice ceremony draws near, Keela rises from the table. If she is allowed, she approaches the prisoner and says: "You took children. You took them away from their families, and held them in cages, and scared them half to death. I don't know why you would think we would let you go after that....but I do feel bad about what's going to happen."
She withdraws from the scene as far as she dares. She finds a place to sit, and looks up into the starlit sky, praying to Alemi to show what mercy he can toward the transgressor.
DM Cayzle - The Feast and the Justice Wednesday October 28th, 2009 4:46:31 PM
OOC to Jet: "yea, he had a vision and I'm a virgin" -- understanding that that's a thought only, your DM has to say that Jet's thoughts made him laugh! Thanks!
Maybe sensing Jet's other thoughts, about the mesa with the water supply, Istaqa adds that the land in which the children were held is still not fertile. Only bad things grow there. It is a poisoned land, slowly being cured. Maybe in an age to come the land will be free of taint and the taboo will be lifted.
Jet has some good but harsh advice for the prisoner, and Keela and Alexi watch silently. Of Ender there is no sign ... maybe he did not want to watch.
The prisoner is led to the center of the circle of parents, and he is allowed to speak.
"Um, look, I didn't mean no harm to those kids. We gave 'em food and stuff. I was just doing a job, okay. Nobody got hurt, right? And nobody was ever goin' to get hurt. Sure, I'm an odd-jobs kinda guy, but I don't hurt kids none, no. Look, I'm sorry. Real sorry."
Istaqa helps translate this, and asks if anyone wants a champion to stand in the circle for them. One older parent, apparently the mother of one of the older kids, steps back, and a champion steps forward. It is the new shaman who is her champion! There is some murmuring about this, since it is evidently unusual but not against custom for a shaman to be a champion.
Finally, it is time. Several parents begin with thrown rocks, which the prisoner does his best to dodge. That dodging brings him in reach of several weapons, and clubs and axes come down on him. It is not long before the the ground is sprinkled with blood.
Several parents leave then, and then more. But about a half dozen remain, including the champion. They keep attacking.
The prisoner lays on the ground now, unconscious. He is dying, for sure, maybe dead. The other parents leave. It seems that they are content to leave the prisoner bloodied but alive. No one goes to tend his wounds, however. At last, only the two shamans stand near the prisoner, and it looks like he will either stabilize on his own, or bleed to death.
DM Cayzle - OOC Wednesday October 28th, 2009 4:50:16 PM
Friends, let me apologize again for the shoddy posting schedule I've had here. The good news is that both my folks will be home from the hospital tomorrow, and with luck, life will start to get back to normal. Thanks for your understanding.
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20+5=21 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2009 6:02:13 PM
Jet doesn't move to help the man, but watches him slowly die, if he is not dead already.
Jet believes the new shaman will likely kill the man anyway if he lives and Jet shows no signs of weakness at this trial. He has seen his fair share of justice administered to his friends living in the streets, if they were caught stealing they would be whipped publicly and without mercy. Some were hung for killing a person fighting against their muggers.
He knows, that if this man in the circle dies at least Gargul will look upon him with more favor then if he died knowing true evil, which is possible, if he continued to live and take the jobs he has been taking.
When or if the man becomes a corpse, he will ask the New Shaman, "May I have his body to dispose of it in a manner that his culture is accustomed too? He has fulfilled the trial in an honorable manner and did not run from the circle. Boarding him is not necessary for he was the last of your enemies."
Diplomacy: 21
ooc: I am so happy your parents will be alright, although still suffering a bit. I am glad I could bring a smile to your face, you probably needed it. :)
Alexi ((Jay - sub)) (AC:17, HP 34/34) Lobo (AC:19, HP:37/37) d20+1=13 ; Wednesday October 28th, 2009 9:42:46 PM
As the night wears on Alexi takes napkins offered and after a tiny wipe of the corner of his mouth places them down at his side where he rests his hand. He has quite a pile gathered by the end of the festivities before the tribal justice begins.
When the last parent steps away Alexi looks to the man in the center of the circle. It's a long moment but he sees the man still draws breath. Alexi moves quickly, grabbing up his pile of barely used cloth napkins and begins to bind the man's wounds in an effort to stabalize him.
If anyone attempts to stop him he will look to Istaqa. "You said, 'If all the parents leave the circle before the prisoner is dead, then he shall live and go free.', well the victims have left and justice has been served by your customs."
Seeing that his efforts are not working well with his makeshift bandages he pleads with the shamans or anyone else nearby for aid. "I choose to help this man who has been judged but still draws breath. Help me. If you will not do it for me as a favor in return for your children's safe return then I will pay, barter or trade you for it. Help me!"
===================== ooc: If no one helps, Alexi will make a heal check each round in an effort to stabalize the man. He'll even tear his own clothing to provide bandaging supplies if needed. He's been meaning to purchase a new cloak anyways.
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Wednesday October 28th, 2009 11:04:28 PM
Jet will grab Alexi and grapple him if he has to, to stop him, attempting to explain, "In the name of Pantheon Stop! The shaman hasn't left yet! The trial is still underway!"
Jet Stormway (AC:22(enraged)/22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20=2 ; Thursday October 29th, 2009 12:26:01 AM
In case Jet actually has to grapple Alexi, +4 from strength, -4 for grapple without feats. At least it will stall him as he thwarts the attempt.
Keela Thursday October 29th, 2009 12:35:17 AM
[OOC: What I meant by "withdraws from the scene as far as she dares" was that Keela would be elswhere during the justice ceremony...but not wander off on her own to the point it became dangerous. So, she could probably hear much of what transpired, but she deliberately wasn't watching.]
Alexi ((Jay - sub)) (AC:17, HP 34/34) Lobo (AC:19, HP:37/37) Thursday October 29th, 2009 10:12:20 AM
[OOC:
My understanding is that when all the victims leave the trial is over. The shaman's participation as champion should end when the victim he replaced leaves the trial. The addition of the second shaman is further evidence in my view that the trial is over as he was not in the circle during the trial. If I am wrong then it is for a reasonable misunderstanding so I don't see a reason to change Alexi's actions.
If Alexi has better knowledge of their customs and would know if this was a wrong move however, then I'll need to re-do his actions. From my reading of this game that does not seem to be the case.
We'll see how it plays out.]
Jet Stormway (AC:22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Thursday October 29th, 2009 7:29:43 PM
ooc: No worries, it is likely what Alexi would have done anyway. :)
DM Cayzle -- Justice and the Morning Friday October 30th, 2009 10:40:22 AM
Jet realizes that while the angry shaman still stands in the circle, the justice is not over.
Alexi, on the other hand, moves to save the prisoner's life. But Jet stops him before he can interrupt the ceremony.
Istaqa asks the shaman if he is done. In answer, the angry shaman raises his weapon to finish the job. But the elderly parents who chose him as champion step forward and ask him to step out. He scowls, and turns away.
The circle is ended. Justice has been delivered. The prisoner lives, though he is close to death.
OOC: Feel free to act now. The Ahote will keep the prisoner safe and confined until morning.
==========
Soon after sunrise, Istaqa and the chief, Dasan, thank you again and offer you gifts. Dasan offers you each a masterwork dagger made of rare obsidian, which has been magically strengthened to stay hard and sharp. He declares friendship with you, and he says he will make peace with the settlement at Bryn Baraz, if the folk there will do likewise.
Istaqa offers a boon as well -- you have but to ask, now or in the future.
Jet Stormway (AC:22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Friday October 30th, 2009 1:59:06 PM
That night as Jet sits and begins to drink copious amounts of the bitter liquor the Ahote share, he speaks calmy to Alexi. Jet shares half of his healers kit with Alexi and explains, "Don't ever use nasty, dirty cloth to bind wounds. Not only will you likely fail, but infection could soon follow. Blood poisoning is much harder to treat and takes far more time, then stabalizing someone close to death."
With a pat on the back of his shoulder, a hard pat, he grins at the man. 'You have done well with this journey. There are still things we need to work on together, but I am growing fond of you, for some reason."
The dagger is beautiful. He admires it while holding it up to the sun light and watching the glint of it's edge play along the blade. Much work went into this tool and Jet places it securly in his boot, for easy access.
He will not ask for his boon now, but does wonder what will be done with the prisoner that should now be set free. "We can take him back with us if you like. We will put him to work and teach him some manners, of that I can guarantee, or you can set him to aiding your people. Perhaps you will let him choose. Your ways are your own and it is not the policy of our community to interfere in the afairs of our friends but to only strive to live in peace with nature and our neighbors."
Alexi ((Jay - sub)) (AC:17, HP 34/34) Lobo (AC:19, HP:37/37) Friday October 30th, 2009 2:32:07 PM
OOC: Is the prisoner going to survive? If he is not stabilized and in jeopardy of bleeding out, Alexi will act appropriately as described above and do anything he can to save the man.
After sunrise Alexi will bow curtly to Chief Dasan as a sign of respect when accepting the gift dagger. He turns to Istaqa and firmly grips the man's fore-arm. They may be friends of the tribe, but a real connection of friendship exists between these two men. When offered a boon from Istaqa, Alexi thinks for a moment but when his mind doesn't turn up anything worthwhile he says, "I'm sure I will have need in the future, it is good to know I can call on the mighty Ahote and my call will be answered. Surely know that the good people of Bryn Baraz will answer a call from Istaqa or Dasan of the Ahote. Let us both hope that we never have need to draw blades together."
Aside he will comment to Istaqa, "As a friend I want you to know my thoughts and heart. This shaman who has returned from exile... beware of him. I am no prophet, but my stomach churns in his presence and I fear for your safety for reasons I can't explain. All I'm saying is... be cautious."
Jet Stormway (AC:22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Friday October 30th, 2009 5:09:24 PM
I think with the DM adding at the end of his post...
OOC: Feel free to act now. The Ahote will keep the prisoner safe and confined until morning.
He lived.
Keela Saturday October 31st, 2009 1:39:06 PM
In the morning, Keela rises and prepares her spells. She is quiet and withdrawn, but thanks the Ahote warmly for their gifts. "I hope the children will be all right," she says.
It will be good to get back home, she thinks.
Today's Spells: 0 - Detect Magic 0 - Light 0 - Prestidigitation 0 - Ray of Frost 1 - Color Spray 1 - Feather Fall 1 - Magic Missile 1 - Ray of Enfeeblement 2 - Rope Trick 2 - Scorching Ray 2 - Web
DM Cayzle -- Time for Farewells Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 7:56:17 AM
[OOC: I dug up the e-mail address for Rune, who plays Ender. I've written him to see how he's doing. Thanks for offering to do the same, Buzz. Also thanks to all for your patience with me. I had a bad day yesterday.]
The shaman looks a little surprised that no one asks for a boon right away. But he bows to you and urges you to use them soon. "My heart foretells me without waking reason that it might be better to claim your boon sooner rather than later." [OOC: That's the DM reminding you that this game will be ending in February!]
Jet asks about the prisoner. The chief says that they will not keep him as a slave. He is free to go today, and must leave Ahote lands immediately. If you want to take him with you, you may ask him. But he is free to say yes or no, unless you will use a boon to take custody of him. You should ask first, though -- no need to use a boon if he is willing anyway.
Alexi takes a moment to warn Istaqa of the other shaman. He assures you that he is on the alert, thanks.
Keela asks one last time about the children, and she is reassured that they are safe and well cared for now.
The open prairie beacons.
Jet Stormway (AC:22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 8:49:44 AM
Jet doesn't even know what type of boon to ask for really. They received the love from an entire people at least most of them. They fulfilled a prophesy this people had known about long before the Bryn Baraz crew ever came to their land and they were offered a gift of a beautiful handmade tool. Asking for more just seems selfish to him and looking around, these people don't have much to begin with. What could Jet possibly ask for that they haven't given freely already?
Jet looks in on the now free man they brought to justice, seeing he is still wounded, he doesn't bother to heal him in front of the Ahote and instead allows him to make up his mind what he wants to do. "Get up and get out of here. Where you go now is your choice, but you can expect no free rides if you return with us. No easy pay from scum wanting to abduct children either. If you think you can make it back to the big city by yourself, good luck. Spread the word, we don't take kindly to those that bring disharmony to this land!"
Jet bows, shakes hands or hugs those that offer and prepares Bantom, his long time friend and trusted steed. "Lets go guys, we have a wee bit of treasure to divide and perhaps a few of Ma belle's girls can give me a bath. For some reason, I have the feeling, I might need more then one tub to do the trick." His mind wanders off to the saloon full of whiskey, beer and ladies. Home!
Alexi ((Jay - sub)) (AC:17, HP 34/34) Lobo (AC:19, HP:37/37) Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 10:18:22 AM
[ooc:
A boon is a rather large award I'd rather have the real player decide. Can we retro-actively allow the real player of Alexi to ask for a boon when he takes over this character again?]
DM Cayzle -- OOC Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 10:37:18 AM
Sure, we can retroactively let Alexi take his pick.
FYI and OOC, here are the kinds of boons I was thinking about ... Minor magic item that a druid can make, like a potion. Casting any druid spell from level 5 on down, say. A big boon would be getting an awakened animal or plant as a friend/cohort/mount. A good thing to save it for might be for a Reincarnate. Stuff like that.
Jet Stormway (AC:22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 11:33:30 AM
With an explanation, Jet would like to have his mount Bantom decide if he would like to be awakened. His steed has saved his life more then once and Jet feels, his friend deserves a better life if he would want it, even if Bantom would not want Jet to ride him into battle anymore, the fighter cleric would be happy to ride by his old friends side, using another mount.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 1:09:33 PM
OOC: thanks Jay, you did an excelent job. :)
OOC: don't know how this would work and how powerful a boon it would be, but Alexi would like to have the new dagger imbued with a semi-telepathic link with Tocho. A ceremony would be performed where Alexi would make a cut on Tocho's right hand, Tocho doing the same with his dagger of same make to Alexi's right hand. They would then clasp hands and become blood brothers. The daggers would be focus objects that Tocho could send a thought such as 'danger', and Alexi, clasping his dagger would sense that the Ahote are facing a danger, and same the other way around.
That is, if Tocho would accept being a blood brother to Alexi. if not, he will ask if Honaw would do it, and if not, he'll ask Istaqa.
Let me know if this is a reasonable boon.
DM Cayzle -- OOC Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 1:54:24 PM
Um, permanent telepathic link? Sorry, no. I was thinking more along the lines of a potion of Cure Serious Wounds. Or maybe this. Sorry. Has to be something in the power of a medium level druid.
Istaqa can speak to Bantom, and if the beast agrees (and I see no reason for it not to), he can cast Awaken on it.
Keela Tuesday November 3rd, 2009 7:50:48 PM
Keela give some thought to her boon.
"I'd like something for my family," she says at last. "Something to make their crops grow, or perhaps some charm to help keep my little niece and nephews safe from harm. Do you have something like that?"
DM Cayzle -- Boons d20=9 [save vs Awaken = ok] 3d6=12 [B Int roll] d3=1 [B Chr roll] 2d8=9 [HP roll] Wednesday November 4th, 2009 7:40:22 AM
Istaqa cannot help Alexi, he is sorry to say. But if you stay a day, then he will have something for Keela to help crops grow, and he will cast the spell for Jet.
[The DM assumes that is fine.]
Jet, per the Awaken spell, your horse Bantom now has an Int of [DM rolls] 12. He speaks common and Ahote. His Charisma goes up by 1 to 7. He gains two hit dice, so now he has 6. His hit points go up by 9 to 51. He also gains 6 skill ranks, chosen by you, in skills he already has. He also gains a feat, chosen by you. His base stats (saves, attacks, etc) go up based on hit dice (ask if you need help figuring that out).
By the way, Bantom definitely wants to still be your mount. That's what he knows how to do! He might even get jealous if you picked someone else!
Keela, you receive an Oil of Plant Growth (Enrichment). Sprinkled over fields, it acts as if a Plant Growth spell had been cast on the area.
Alexi, want to try again? Or save your boon?
Still no word from Ender, alas.
Alexi (AC: 17, HP:34/34) Lobo (AC: 19, HP:37/37) Wednesday November 4th, 2009 9:14:11 PM
OOC: i wasn't going to be audatious enought to ask for a 'telepathic' link, but more of a 'empathic' link. Say, Alexi want's to visit Tocho, he heads towards the prairy and holding the dagger, Tocho gets a 'feeling' that Alexi is coming or looking for him. Or Tocho, seeing tracks of gnolls heading in the direction of Bryn Baraz, holds the dagger and Alexi gets a 'feeling' of danger heading their way.
If this doesn't work, what Jet got sounds real cool, and great for a cavalryman, but i'd hate to be a copy cat. :)
I'll do some 'thoughtful research tonight.
Keela Wednesday November 4th, 2009 10:18:52 PM
"Thank you very much indeed." Keela clasps the little vial of oil. Now, how to persuade Senna and Daben to put some strange oil on their newly-planted crops? Keela decides to cross that bridge when she comes to it.
She saddles Daisy, and is soon ready to depart.
Jet Stormway (AC:22 HP:36/36 ; Bantom AC:19 HP:42/42) d20+8=21 ; Wednesday November 4th, 2009 11:21:55 PM
Jet stays with the prisoner, taking him away from the ahote camp for the night, but making sure he remains safe. Jet heals him up and attempts to explain to him what being good is about and the difficulties and joys of the alignment, in the hopes, this person has a new lease on life.
In the morning, Jet leaves the man and joins the tribe. He gets to know better his old friend, after thanking Istaqua and the others. "If you ever have need of us, send a messenger. We will do what we can for our neighbors."
With a new outlook on this journey, he pats bantom on his large shoulder and asks him, Ready to go get some oats and beer my friend? I sure am!"
On the way back to Bryn Baraz, they will stop where they left the man that had successfully passed his trial of the circle, to see if he is still there and wants to join them. Jet will let him ride on Vaya, his pack horse if he is still there, but if he is not, Jet will use some survival skills to check and see which direction he went. He would be curious at this point to know which way he went and why he would choose that direction.
Survival: 21
Ender [AC 18, HP 26/26] Thursday November 5th, 2009 1:20:38 AM
OOC: Sorry guys, iwe just gotten home from the hospital, I tore the ligaments in my right knee in practice and they couldny fix it right away so i was stuck without internet...
Ender, having stayed in another part of the camp while the punishment was metered out, comes out again to enjoy the feast. He chooses somthing along the lines of "Gauntlets of Ogre Power" as a boon if that is possible. and then joins the others for the trip back to Bryn Baraz
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