DM Steve -- Just for the record who is Walker? Saturday February 25th, 2023 8:52:48 AM
Drack wonders why these creatures would be here if Walker isn’t as he checks on Dorata and anyone else he finds in the keep. Ash stares in awe. Torrynashkabbeth isn’t sure what to make of things, but noticed no one was hurt. Loryn agrees with Mortimer. He realizes that Walker is too far for them to help. Mortimer explains that if Windhorn is where Walker started, it will be where the hunt for him starts. He looks for others who may have been affected by the riders. Manolo comments on their hurry, but he’s thinking about his own past. Mole says the only chance to help Walker is to find out where he went. Gnubert tries to help Dorata and anyone else who encountered the riders.
As the group gathers everyone who saw the riders, they learn Dorata was the only one to intervene. Gnubert’s energy washes over everyone, making them feel refreshed although no one was physically injured. It also brings Dorata back to herself.
Dorata's account of the events that transpired is harrowing and deeply unsettling. She recounts how she was going about her business when suddenly, a strange phenomenon caught her attention. A strange, flickering light seemed to be emanating from a point in the air, and before she knew it, a doorway opened right before her eyes. It was as if a tear had been made in the very fabric of reality, and something was trying to come through.
What emerged from the portal was even more frightening. Three skeletal warriors, riding on emaciated horses, burst through the opening, their green eyes blazing with an otherworldly fire. Dorata could sense immediately that these beings were not of this world, and that they were intent on doing harm. She stepped forward to try and stop them, but even as she did so, she could feel her strength leaving her. With a single glance, the skeletal warriors had managed to weaken her, leaving her vulnerable and defenseless.
It was then that she heard the voice, a chilling, unearthly sound that seemed to come from the other side of the doorway. Dorata could not see who or what was speaking, but the voice was unmistakable in its command. "Find him," it said, "and bring him back here." The coldness that spread through her body was not just from the sudden chill in the air, but from the sheer terror of what she had witnessed. Dorata has no doubt that whatever came through that doorway was not of this world, and that it was capable of great harm. The fact that it was seeking someone, and that it seemed to have a specific purpose, only adds to her sense of foreboding and danger.
Dorata’s account is heard by the group and by the others that they had gathered from the keep. One of these, Erin Stanley, goes into hysterics over “bring him back,” and looks likely to panic the others. ”They’re coming back? They’re coming back!” Someone else asks if this is going to be like the Dread attack on Effacia.
The what? Wondered Torryn. Not a lot of what was happening made much sense to her. If the riders were after Kandruth, as seemed likely, there wasn't much that they could do about it. From what she could ascertain, the riders were supernatural creatures on tireless, equally supernatural steeds. What chance did any of them of of outpacing such speed?
Kandruth was odd. he was awful to work with and plainly wanted away from people to avoid precisely the trauma that had now unfolded. he didn't deserve to be dragged off to oblivion. Again. But then, she was struggling to have a lot of sympathy for him. He simply wasn't that likeable. Obviously that was not reason enough to abandon him to his fate, but even had she desperately wanted to help him, she saw no means how that might be accomplished. Perhaps wiser heads than hers would prevail. As she saw it, attempting to aid him was an utterly forlorn task: one with no realistic prospect of success. Naturally, she said nothing. People were traumatised enough. they didn't need any additional negativity at this time. In truth, they could probably do with some music and especially some dancing! That was sure to lift spirits swiftly.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 d20+12=15 ; Sunday February 26th, 2023 8:23:03 PM
Gnubert tends to those around him with quick efficiency and ponders the description given by Dorata. The cleric attempts to connect the description given with his religious training (Knowledge Religion DC 15)
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Sunday February 26th, 2023 10:20:30 PM
DMs Steve and Clint: Have sent you an email gentlemen. :)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 Monday February 27th, 2023 8:57:33 AM
Drack tries to calm the people panicking. "They are not likely coming back here. They are taking Walker back to their accursed realm."
"I don't think that there is much we can do for him. He could be anywhere at this point. But he knew what was coming, and was going to try and avoid involving anyone else in his problems."
Drack will fill Gnubert in on their experiences with Walker.(I believe the DM gave Wade the location of where to find that part of the story.)
Spells: Bless, Prot. from evil Lay on hands: used 0/8
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life d20+10=24 ; Monday February 27th, 2023 12:20:08 PM
(Bluff: 24 to convey a secret message, success.)
Mortimer turns to Drack with a look of concern and says, "Yeah, that voice didn't mention the Hamlet at all?"
Of course, his friends knowing his proclivity for sarcasm knows this was his subtle way of saying, 'Oh yeah, the voice from beyond DID say to bring him back HERE!' (Bluff check secret message)
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life d20+10=22 ; Monday February 27th, 2023 1:05:51 PM
Mortimer adds, "We should take Dorata inside so she can catch her breath. Thankfully it's all over now." What he really means by this is, 'let's end this sideshow.'
He then turns to Erin Stanley and explains, "I'm sure this was just some trickster, from out of town, having their fun. Why else would the bastard wait until Wardd's Full Moon service to do it. We're lookin' into it, yeah."(Bluff: 22)
Mortimer's excellent bluffs totally convinced Torryn that there really was nothing major to worry about. She shrugged. "Well, we wouldn't have caught them anyway; not at that speed. Still, there should be some tracks for us to follow once it gets light. So...uh...what now?" She was pretty clueless as to what was really happening and its significance. She looked around for leadership and possibly some decisive answers.
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+12=15 ; Monday February 27th, 2023 6:14:27 PM
Loryn listens and he is concerned as well. It was a fact they were not catching the riders and stopping their assault on Walker. The gnome also sided with Mortimer that they are coming back. It made sense to him, but here was not the place to discuss it. Minerva's was. The excited cry and fear from Erin Stanley spurred the gnome from thought to action. Mortimer, the gnome smiles, Well done
"Erin! Please be calm or at least be calm-er." he then nods to Mortimer and bobs his head towards the keep and back inside. The Keep was closer than Minerva's and offered the same privacey.
Back to the crowd, Warrds Full Moon service never disappoints and fear not my friends. My friends and I are not going anywhere
Inside and way from the spectacle outside, Loryn states his agreement with Mortimer. "This is where the rift has occurred now 2 times and even without the phrase of come back here, I would expect the return of riders with Kaldruth in tow to within this very keep to jump back to the plane from which they came. I have some notes and bits on other realms of existence to go over, mayhaps something will help. I think we set ourselves with the thought of they will be back and see what defenses we might muster as well as perhaps locate 'exactly' where they sprouted from."
With the last Thought, Loryn casts Detect Magic in hopes of locating such a powerful source before it fully dissipates
Spells: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/5
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/31 Monday February 27th, 2023 6:51:45 PM
Manolos attention is in the past....for some time he thinks and relives the past ...... He snaps out of his daydreaming..... He thinks about the stories that Lanliss told him ....it was not something you could just brush off and take lightly.
"I don't know if they will be back or not...", Manolo says simply.... Only to add his opinion on a possible idea/dilemma," if they do come back....do we fight them.....or we take a lucky chance and sneak on them while they pass...this some kind of a door o a gate to a different dimension or world we were never been to before".
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 31/31 Monday February 27th, 2023 7:47:13 PM
Ash really thought Kundrath was a mean spirited jerk for lack of a better word, but now it was apparent that he was really just afraid of what he was bringing back with him.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Monday February 27th, 2023 8:54:30 PM
Gnubert helps usher Dorata inside, and finds her a place to sit, and regain some strength. The cleric runs though the story of Walker (OOC: Still reading it. Work has been busy sorry) and attempts to wrap his head around it. Gnubert feels as though this was intentional but by whom, and why?
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Monday February 27th, 2023 8:54:31 PM
Gnubert helps usher Dorata inside, and finds her a place to sit, and regain some strength. The cleric runs though the story of Walker (OOC: Still reading it. Work has been busy sorry) and attempts to wrap his head around it. Gnubert feels as though this was intentional but by whom, and why?
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 48/48; CMD 16 Monday February 27th, 2023 10:09:25 PM
Mole goes around helping the townsfolk.
DM Steve -- My friends and I are not going anywhere. Monday February 27th, 2023 10:23:44 PM
Mortimer’s sarcasm lets Drack know what he thinks of the situation. He suggests taking Dorata inside to recover, and tells folks they will look into this. Ash really thought Kandruth was a jerk, but maybe he was just afraid. Mole helps the townsfolk. Manolo relieves part of his past. (OOC: Can a nightmare be a daydream?) He doesn’t know whether the things will be back, but wonders what should be done if they are. Drack tries to calm the people, telling them that the creatures will not be returning. He agrees that there is nothing they can do for Walker, and fills Gnubert in. Torrynashkabbeth is still trying to make sense of what’s happening. She remembers how odd and difficult Kandruth was. Wherever he is, she doesn’t see how they can help him. Maybe they will be able to find out more when it’s light. Loryn agrees with Mortimer’s concerns. He gestures for the others to head into the keep, telling the crowd not to fear. Once the group is in the keep, he explains his concerns and possible plans. Gnubert tries to recall anything matching Dorata’s description. When Mortimer and Loryn suggest going in, he helps Dorata.
Loryn casts detect magic. He finds a strong and still lingering aura of conjuration magic. Gnubert does not recognize these creatures among those he has studied.
The townsfolk gather around the heroes, their faces etched with fear and concern. Despite the reassurances Drack gives, the townsfolk are still very uneasy. They know that the heroes are brave and capable, but the thought of such a powerful and malevolent force coming to their town is simply too much. They urge the heroes to find a way to prevent the creatures from returning.
Some ask about gathering supplies and reinforcing the town's defenses. Others say they should find any information they can about the undead riders, hoping to discover a way to banish them back to their own realm. As the heroes take Dorata into the keep to recover, the crowd remains on edge, the memory of the skeletal warriors and the chilling voice still fresh in their minds.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:27/27 AC:17 F9: R:10 W:12 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 4:21:48 AM
Torryn just wanted to go back to the boarding house. Once there she felt sure that someone would sit down and explain what had happened and what they were going to do about it. Currently, she really had very little notion of either. On a more positive note, her lack of concern would at least put many of the locals at ease. Torryn wasn't worried. She didn't know she had to be.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:27/27 AC:17 F9: R:10 W:12 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 4:21:48 AM
Torryn just wanted to go back to the boarding house. Once there she felt sure that someone would sit down and explain what had happened and what they were going to do about it. Currently, she really had very little notion of either. On a more positive note, her lack of concern would at least put many of the locals at ease. Torryn wasn't worried. She didn't know she had to be.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 12:09:26 PM
Drack raises an eyebrow in the general direction of Loryn when he mentions aloud that the riders will probably return here. He is not pleased with the fact that he currently has no evil enemy to smite and fight.
When he has a second, he whispers to Loryn. "You should not make promises that we can't necessarily keep. We do not know what could call us away from this place, or if and when the riders will return. Either way. I would really like to purge some evil from these lands."
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+9=28 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 6:20:00 PM
Loryn can still hear some of the commotion outside and sighs and looks up at Drack, "I am not studied in the art of diplomacy, mine lies more in the temporarily altering a situation so I do not get killed or thought so poorly on. It seemed like the thing to say."
The gnome grabs a seat and continues, "Though really, i do not expect the riders to take much time in retrieving Walker and returning him. They have done so before, by his own account and given their supernatural dispositions, I expect within a couple weeks on the outside."
Loryn studies the magical emmenations for additional clues or knowledge and invites the others to do so. "The magic is still detectable friends. A strong Conjurational source", Drak, Torrynashkkebeth, can either of you detect any evil in this area?" he walks and gestures to the strongest area of the conjuration magic
Know arcana 28
"we know where they were conjured, we know the path they took. I think it likely they will return along the same lines and I think we should put up defenses between those points"
Spells: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/5
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/31 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 6:56:09 PM
Manolo snaps out if his nightmare and listens to Loryn and Drack. OOC: meant nightmare...but couldn't think of the word.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 8:55:04 PM
Drack will detect evil on the area that the rift happened.
“Loryn, I hope you are right. I don’t think they are coming back here, but all we can do now is prepare in case they do. I don’t think any defenses will matter. All that will matter in stopping them is magic, and magical steel. May Domi help me.”
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 9:22:22 PM
Gnubert listens to the others as they discuss possible solutions, and defense of the town. "I do not know much about summoning creatures, although I can. I do know there is a finite time for a summoned creature to exist in our world. I am not sure they would have to return the way in which they left, or if they would need to return here at all. We should definitely do something just to help remove some of the fear the town has. Somtimes the appearance of action is all it takes. We should ensure the townsfolk have a bastion to fall back too, and arrange for additional patrols, around the town. We can work in small groups to help alleviate the strain on the town until we decide on a course of action for us to take."
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life d20+5=12 ; Tuesday February 28th, 2023 10:15:16 PM
Mortimer considers what he knows about skeletons and skeletal horses (Knowledge [Religion]: 12).
"Why would ya think they won't come back?" he asks Drack. "The bloody sod, from the other side, told those skelley riders to bring Walker back here!" He then gives Loryn a glance and declares, "A couple weeks ... more like days! It's not gonna take those boney bastards to long ta catch up and pinch that ole codger Walker. These dead don't needta to rest, they can go full speed without stoppin'. They no needta eat or drink," he pauses to think about it, "where would it go, they're just bones!"
He then thinks about it and imparts a chilling thought, "It's been close to an hour, yeah? Those riders are at least 30 miles away by now. Before this night is through, they would've traveled almost 200 miles! How far ya think Walker had gotten? Not much more! Unless the skelleys needta shelter from the sun, they should have Walker before the end of the day!"
Ash tries recalling anything relative to these skeltal riders. Anything he read while spending nights in the libraries of his home.
DM Steve -- All that will matter in stopping them is magic, and magical steel. Tuesday February 28th, 2023 10:56:11 PM
Drack is in a mood to smite evil, but doesn’t like hearing that they will be here when the riders return. He detects for evil where the rift was. Mole is quiet. Loryn explains what he said to Drack. He thinks the riders will return within a couple of weeks. He asks the others if they can find additional clues; he can still detect the magic. He suggests coming up with defenses. As confused as Torrynashkabbeth is, she isn’t worried. Maybe folks will find this calming. Manolo snaps out of his nightmare. Gnubert listens to the others. He adds that summoned creatures are only in this world for a finite time. But they should be seen doing something to calm the people of Windhorn. Mortimer tries to recall what he can about creatures like these. He argues that the riders will be back quickly – maybe a few days. Ash tries recalling anything he may have read that would relate to this.
As Loryn studies the conjuration further, he realizes it is some sort of creation as well – and possibly the most potent magic he has so far personally encountered. None of what Mortimer recalls quite matches these creatures.
When Drack goes back out to detect evil, he finds an odd phenomenon. The ground itself is faintly evil in an area that is a straight line on one side and a hemisphere on the other. Within the hemisphere, the further from the line, the more faint the evil. But none of it is strong.
Ash compares all of this to things he has read, and concludes that the riders were sent through a gate of some sort, and that the land on the other side is one of great evil. . . And whatever sent them wants them back here because it needs to open another gate for them to return.
As the heroes emerge from their discussion, they are met with a mixture of emotions from the townsfolk. Some look hopeful and relieved, while others still appear anxious and fearful. One of the townspersons steps forward and asks the heroes if they have a plan to deal with the undead riders. Another expresses concern about the safety of their families and loved ones. A few others are visibly shaken and look as though they are struggling to keep their composure.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 48/48; CMD 16 Tuesday February 28th, 2023 11:55:37 PM
Mole listens to the others, but has nothing to offer. He has no knowledge of the supernatural, only the natural. He still thinks locating Walker is the best option.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life Wednesday March 1st, 2023 12:42:58 AM
(ooc: btw, I thought we moved inside the Keep for privacy. Are we still in the street saying this stuff in front of a crowd? Alright, full disclosure :)
Mortimer suddenly experiences several mental flashbacks. They almost feel like slaps across the face. The strikes definitely causes his ears to ring. Maybe, just maybe, it wasn't three skeletal warriors, with green otherwoldly eyes, on the backs of emaciated horses that had burst from the gate.
"Maybe they're not what they seem," Mortimer concludes. "Walker called them Corpse Demons. What dodgy bastards they are, bein' demons that look like skellys. Any of you bright, clever-types know of anything like that?"
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 31/31 d20+13=14 ; Wednesday March 1st, 2023 7:37:16 AM
Ash shook his head. " nothing come to mind Mortimer. They were sent through a gate, and the other side is an extremely evil place."
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:27/27 AC:17 F9: R:10 W:12 Wednesday March 1st, 2023 7:46:41 AM
Demons were always bad. And that was about all she knew on the matter. She didn't know what to suggest in terms of going forward and dealing with them. So she kept quiet. Drack had already done the "Finding Evil" thing. She saw no need to replicate his efforts.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 d20+4=7 ; Wednesday March 1st, 2023 10:04:03 AM
Drack will pull an arrow from his quiver, and trace the line in the ground that radiates evil. He will then explain to Loryn and the other spell casters where its faint, and not so faint. hopefully they can glean some useful information from the description.
After Mortimer recalls that Walker called them corpse demons, Drack will search his memory to see if he has ever heard of such. (know religion 7)(typical)
Drack will then reply to the concerned townsfolk. "We are working on a plan now, but fear not, we will do everything within our power to make sure that no harm occurs to this town or it's people."
Spells: Bless, Prot. from evil Lay on hands: used 0/8
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/31 Wednesday March 1st, 2023 10:56:29 AM
Manolo tags along and follows Drack for the time being. Manolo sure didn't know that much about casting spells to help the magic users of the Keepers.
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life d20+5=22 ; Wednesday March 1st, 2023 3:13:10 PM
Mortimer continues to ponder about the lore of demons and devils. He knows Outsiders fall under Knowledge [Planes], which he knows little about. However he wonders if his knowledge of religion might have something to share on the subject. Maybe not, he thinks defeatedly. Whoever heard of demons and devils being the topic of religious discussions?
He'll try anyway (Knowledge [Religion]: 22)
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+8=19 ; d20+12=16 ; Wednesday March 1st, 2023 4:30:54 PM "Gate, yea that makes sense." Loryn replies rubbing his head as the conversation turns to what Walker had named the creatures, Corpse Demon, Loryn admits he'd forgot about that. Good catch. The gnomes planar knowledge was not vast, but nor was it insignificant. know planes 19
"Not sure if it changes our immediate course though. Demon or undead, I'm sure you are right Mortimer. If they can sense Walker they could be upon him with a couple days. While his lead on us is great, at 6 or 7 days journey, those things will make short work of that." The gnome exhales deeply before sucking in another clearing breath.
"Which leaves us right where we were. What can do if anything to prepare a defense to stop them from getting back through this gate? Barring that, how prepared are you my friends to follow and try and pull Walker back?"
It was his own question, but one he was not sure he had answer to. Was he prepared to journey through a gate to an unknown evil land for this man. Was it worth it, was HE worth it. The gnome was unsure, but he did his best to hide his conflict over the matter. Bluff 16
"Perhpas we speak to Grog and see if he knows of anyone or knows himself of this land of the Lavendar Moon that might lend us aid in this."
Spells: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/5
Contacting Grog seemed like an excellent suggestion. She at least required some direction in this matter. Still, a question arose.
"Can demons cross onto sanctified ground? I heard that sort of keeps undead stuff at bay, but honestly - I've no idea when it comes to demons. They're like, uh - more powerful, right?" She quickly shit up before she started rambling.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 d20+12=17 ; Wednesday March 1st, 2023 9:52:19 PM
Gnubert listens to the others, not fully understanding some of the nuances of the conversation. Upon hearing the term corpse demon the cleric tries to recall any information he may have been taught (Knowledge Religion DC 17)
DM Steve -- Maybe they're not what they seem. Wednesday March 1st, 2023 10:59:40 PM
Retcon: The crowd in the last scene were talking to Drack while he was detecting evil, not to the entire group.
Mortimer proposes that they are dealing with demons that look undead. He tries to recall anything he knows on the subject. Torrynashkabbeth knew demons were bad. She still has no idea what to do next. She seconds Loryn’s suggestion to talk to Grog, and asks about demons and sanctified ground. Ash repeats that the creatures were sent through a gate, and the other side is an extremely evil place. Loryn agrees that a gate makes sense. He wonders about other planes. Demon or undead, the question is what to do. . . He suggests talking to Grog. Gnubert listens, not having dealt with . Drack draws a line to help explain what he saw to the spell casters. He tries to recall anything about skeletal demons. And he tells the townsfolk that they are working on a plan. Manolo tags along with Drack. Mole listens. He thinks finding Walker would be best.
Mortimer and Gnubert decide these are not creatures in contemporary religions of the Wold. Loryn mentions the lavender moon – and Koshe Marr is an extremely evil place. Mortimer remembers why Windhorn has a very lucky basement, because it has been to Koshe Marr and returned intact.
OOC: Sorry for such a short response tonight. If the group wants to go see Grog, what do they plan to say to the crowd on the way? (Drack already made a good start.)
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 d20+8=26 ; Thursday March 2nd, 2023 3:11:42 PM
Drack tries to further ease the minds of the townsfolk.(diplomacy 26). "Fear not ladies and gentlemen, we will have a plan before they return, if they even return here. We are going to go talk to Grog to see if he may be able to tell us more about what we are dealing with, and then we will come up with a plan once we have had a moment to think it through."
"Come my friends, let's go talk to Grog, and then work up our plan, shall we?"
Spells: Bless, Prot. from evil Lay on hands: used 0/8
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday March 2nd, 2023 3:39:27 PM
Loryn leaves the crowd to Drack and starts heading towards Grog's. Big strong paladin of Domi would go much further at putting the hamlet's fears to rest than a small gnome. Koshe Marr, the actual stuff of nightmares and Windhorn had been there once already. Would they fair as well a second time? Well let's not let it come to that Mr. Glitterfall
Spells: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/5
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life Thursday March 2nd, 2023 4:40:31 PM
Mortimer lets Drack have his turn with the crowd. They completely ignored all his masterfully crafted lies. He's had his fill of their questions. He thinks they should all stew in their fear; builds character. A healthy survival instinct is always a good thing.
'That's the first thing you've said that I actually agree with. We'll make a Margrave out of you yet.'
"who said that," mutters Mortimer?
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/31 Thursday March 2nd, 2023 7:16:50 PM
Manolo stays with Drack for a while to keep him company. "Let us know what Grog says" , he reminds to the group to tell him and Drack.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 48/48; CMD 16 Thursday March 2nd, 2023 7:43:03 PM
Mole speaks up. "Are you sure they will come back here? Why would we assume that? Has there been any other instances of a gate appearing in the villages history?" He says. "What is your goal? Save Walker? Destroy the demons? Those questions should drive your next actions."
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Thursday March 2nd, 2023 9:07:26 PM
Loryn walks and talks, "Am I sure no, but the book was opened here, Walker appeared here, the gate was opened here and the creatures sent to get Walker started here and a voice told them to bring him back here, so that's my logic good dwarf. Far as history, last time I know of Koshe Marr having an encounter with Windhorn, the entire Hamlet got pulled through a gate, so kinda."
The goal question, which was a good one, he wasn't sure about. He also thought he probably should be though. Instead he waves it off with optimism, "We'll get to the last part later."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Thursday March 2nd, 2023 10:04:55 PM
Gnubert defers to Drack as he knows the towns folk better than he. ”Perhaps a bit of guidance from Grog is what we need,” Gnubert nods towards Ash.
Drinks Are On Me [DM Jerry] Thursday March 2nd, 2023 10:37:02 PM
Drack sees his words taking effect as the townsfolk look to him, listening carefully to his wise words. One lady asks her husband, "I wonder which god he worships? Paladins are tied to a deity aren't they Wendall? I mean not like a priest, but aren't they?"
After a bit, Loryn begins walking towards Grog seek his advice as does Manolo. As soon as they turn, they almost runs into him as he walks up to the group. In his deep voice, he says "That was unusual! Ask me about what? This? I have no idea!"
Mortimer seems a bit frustrated. The scowl on his face is easy to spot.
Mole asks the obvious questions that are on most of the citizens mind. His questions are repeated by the gathering throng as people crowd around the party, expressing fear, hesitation, and confusion.
Various townsfolk ask, "What manner of creature are these? Why are they here? Will they come back? Why do these things happen to Windhorn?"
Loryn goes on to explain his logic for a return trip if they capture Walker. And at that moment, the sky lights up. Greenish looking from the northern farm area. Cries of battle. Several fireballs going on. Screams of pain and sounds of battle. A demonic sounding laugh.
Then silence. Then the sound of hooves and wind.
Then the demon riders fly back at high speed as the gate struggles to open. But there is only two of them returning.
Between them they carry the still form of Walker. They shoot through the gateway just as other undead crowd the entrance on the other side of this rift, gate, or whatever it is trying to get out. Immediately the opening closes with a huge clap that sounds like thunder.
Then all is still.
Silence.
A chill passes over everyone--it must be cold on the other side.
Phaedra Swiftshine, head of the Windguard, is standing by Grog. Tall, muscular, and sure--yet she shivers. Then looking around at the townsfolk, she makes a decision. "I will have the Windguard remain here for the night and keep watch. While they get organized, I think we all need a drink. Tonight, the drinks are on me, Grog.
Most everyone nods and the townsfolk begin walking towards Grog's
Grog turns to Gnubert and Ash. "If you and yours would help me distribute drinks for a bit, I'd be obliged. I think we're going to have a house full."
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Friday March 3rd, 2023 4:16:34 AM
Gnubert defers to Drack as he knows the towns folk better than he. ”Perhaps a bit of guidance from Grog is what we need,” Gnubert nods towards Ash.
Torrynashkabbeth (Nick) HP:27/27 AC:17 F9: R:10 W:12 Friday March 3rd, 2023 6:05:55 AM
Well! She hadn't expected things to happen quite that fast, but it did at least put an end to her confusion. Also, whilst Sacred Dancers were meant to be courageous and set a fine example, she didn't mind admitting that she was relieved that they didn't have to pass through that portal and fight all those things. Serving drinks was much easier. Torryn had no issues with taking drinks to all and sundry. She sought to get the townsfolk to see it as "exciting" rather than dangerous. They'd survived and no one was hurt. Some would be determined worriers and there was little she could do about that. Still, if there was music, she could dance and dance always lifted spirits.
Ash Macfarlane - Shawn R; AC: 11(T 11, FF 10), CMD: 24 HP: 31/31 Friday March 3rd, 2023 8:50:24 AM
Ash stands with his mouth wide open, a chill permeated his bones. After a few seconds, he nods to Grogg first and Gnubert second. Ash thought Walker was an abrasive person, but he meant well... and now his limp body was being dragged to some other plane full of undead. If any plane could be called a hell, that must be it Ash thought to himself.
When Grog gives them the heads up, he'll help pass out drinks.. making sure to say hello, or make mention of a towns person that he saw earlier while walking around town.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 Friday March 3rd, 2023 10:43:48 AM
Drack started to pull his sword as the green light appeared in the distance, But in an instance, they were gone.
Drack turns to the townsfolk.”They are gone. All is well at the moment. I will split the drinks with Phaedra. Let us go and relax.”
On the way to the Grog’s, Drack will move next to Loryn. “We need to find out why so much weird stuff keeps happening here. Is it cursed, or some sort of inter dimensional travel point? Either way, we need to figure out how to shut it down.”
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 Friday March 3rd, 2023 10:50:31 AM
“Oh yeah, and Loryn? feel free to find me some evil to smite.”
Drack will help pass out drinks, and use his diplomacy to further calm the townsfolk
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life Friday March 3rd, 2023 12:48:12 PM
Mortimer's jaw drops as he gawks at Walker and the corpse demons galloping for the open gate to the nightmare realm. There being only two dark riders for the return trip does not go unnoticed. He can only assume that Walker was able to slay one of them. That allows him a quick grin of satisfaction.
That satisfaction continues as this was bonafide proof he was right. However he is not the kind of person to say I told you so. Mortimer hates blatherskiting prats like that, and he won't become one of them.
Later as Grog is passing out drinks to the townsfolk, Mortimer will offer up a toast, "Everyone, I'd like ta toast ole' Kandruth Walker. He may be down but he's not out. That ole' bastard showed those dark riders what for! Went down kickin' and swingin'. Slayed one of them, he did! Cheers to Walker ... may your curse end someday soon." He downs his drink in a single gulp.
Later, he walks over where Drack and Loryn are talking and offers his own suggestion. "Our next steps should be a visit to the farms north of town; at daybreak. Somethin' big happened out there. Ya may get your chance ta smite after all."
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K Friday March 3rd, 2023 3:54:17 PM
Loryn's eyes get big as the fight erupts in the relatively near distance. Things were far closer than he would have guessed and he was terrifically unprepared for it. By the time his brain breaks away and calls his body to any action, the riders are past and the gate closed. The gnome just stands there staring at the now closed gate for a moment or two.
Loryn looks up as Drack starts talking to him, "Now that sounds like a job for the heroic wol...." he trails off with a grin and holds up his arms in a faux defense. "I agree, Windhorn seems to be a magnet, and it would be everyone's best interest to source it out."
Immediate action seemed to be to help calm everyone down. This would be a topic for a few days if not weeks and the group was going to be one of the main sources of comfort and calm. Loryn found the custom of drinking for little reason than to drink an odd one. Most of the races as a whole carried the tradition of doing so, with dwarves leading the charge so to speak. Be that as it may, Loryn will take a drink or two and find a citizen to hand them to.
"I agree with that Mortimer and sooner rather than later so as the site does not become overly muddled. From there we break to the outlying homesteads and make a round of appearances and lastly hit the shrine and make sure nothing, like the third rider, has been left behind"
Spells: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/5
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Friday March 3rd, 2023 7:43:10 PM
Gnubert smiles at Grog, "of course, I would be glad to help. Plus it will help my mind to stay busy with my hands." Gnubert can't help but wish he had some of his siblings understanding of the arcane and planes. The cleric gets a wistful look in his eyes as he begins to hand out drinks, and make conversation with various townsfolk.
Manolo (Michael A) -- AC 18/15/13 -- CMD 19 -- HP 31/31 Friday March 3rd, 2023 7:56:54 PM
Manolo accepts the drinks offered to him... 'Today it's fine to drink a lot', he thinks. "We need to get stronger", he says while drinking of the ales offered. He listen to his friends but only half of it he understands and accepts. 'We are going to have...no we must become stronger "'', he says out loudly...expressing his thoughts loudly..
"We Must Become Stronger" [DM Jerry] Saturday March 4th, 2023 1:24:05 PM
The evening is spent easing the fears of the townsfolk. Even in Windhorn Hamlet, one does not see rifts open and mounted undead coming and going every day. Much talk concerns why such things tend to happen in Windhorn and if the town is cursed in some unknown way.
When groups of folks tend to get too morbid, Grog or Phaedra Swiftshine make an appearance at the table and try change the conversation.
Grog nods at Manolo and Gnubert as he passes, "Thanks for being willing to help, Gnubert. That table over by the piano is getting a bit....fussy. Manolo, if you and Gnubert don't mine, take over that snack plate and pitcher of mead I've set out on the bar and seeing if you can check on them? Liram and Niram are over there and they loooooove drama. The folks around them are getting a bit worked up.
You look across and Niram is speaking very loudly? "I think this is the next Crisis! They call them Adventurer's Crisis but I think they are part of the problem! Every time one of them groups turns up, something begins to happen! And lookee here. We have one now!"
Liram answers, "Nah, a couple of them are kinda cute. I don't mind them."
Niram grimaces and makes fake noises like she wants to throw up.
-----
[Everyone may choose to make some appropriate skill checks to affect the room and the stressed out citizens. Diplomacy is probably the best choice, but I won't limit you.]
Torry's efforts to get the people to think of it as exciting meet little success so far. [Torry make a diplomacy or perform skill check to see if you can influence the tavern in this direction.]
Ash helps pass out drinks and show himself friendly talking to those he has met or seen before.
Drack helps Phaedra pass out drinks and work the crowd, but he has the same question on his mind that many have this night, "Why?" and "Why here?" and "What can we do about this?" [Drack feel free to make voluntary checks at any time when I'm DMing. You don't have to be prompted or directed. Just state what you are wanting to happen. :)]
Loryn also chips in helping pass out drinks while observing the oddity of how drinking something happens at such times. Just as he thinks this, an older guy sitting alone takes a drink from him and says, "May I forget everything." He then pauses as if that is a prayer and drinks it down. He looks up sheepishly as if that didn't help at all.
Manolo wisely speaks saying that "we" must become stronger. Then he says it again, very loudly as if it was a declaration of wisdom, which it may be.
The townsfolk seem to have thought of "danger to Windhorn" to be something that happened to previous generations, not to them. The concern is in every eye, "Is it happening again?"
Torryn tried to be diplomatic, but hr gentle tones were lost amid the worried hubbub. (First roll: Diplomacy: 10) She then espied the piano and petitioned the player to liven things up so that she could dance. Dancing always cheered people up. It was an irrefutable fact. So she danced. (Perform: 23) She was a far better dancer than diplomat. Torryn di her convivial best to drag others onto the dancefloor. She could make even the worst seem passable.
Gnubert Glitterdust (Wade) AC: 18 T: 13 F: 16 R: 5 F: 8 W: 10 HPS: 36/36 CMD: -1 Saturday March 4th, 2023 6:46:11 PM
Gnubert defers to Drack as he knows the towns folk better than he. ”Perhaps a bit of guidance from Grog is what we need,” Gnubert nods towards Ash.
AC 13 HP 34/34 Loryn Glitterfall; Dan K d20+13=15 ; Sunday March 5th, 2023 9:46:37 AM
Loryn was no longer concerned about speaking with Grog, he was only going to ask about Koshe Marr and the undead riders. What was beginning to happen now, was typical human stuff. It happened with the gremlins and now again. Some seemed to have a predisposition to panic. That's how Agatha almost ended up on the wrong end of a fire. To Loryn, the cleric of the gods and the paladin of Domi were the best 2 candidates to calm things down. His experience was that those types of occupations carried training and practice is such things, leading the flock and all. Loryn was practiced at getting one or two people to believe a tale so as to allow him to continue doing what he wanted at the time. With a pull on his nose, it seemed like he was going to see how effective that might be on a larger scale. Loryn decides to start with one or two people and build, scanning about for a couple that might be taking it in from a small distance.
Fixing his WLA badge, he heads over to his targets with a pair of drinks, "Don't you mind or worry, Nirma is a performer and that means drama. We sent the ogre packing last year, cleared the gremlins and last month put an end to the evil at a nearby long unused homestead. About half a dozen of these riders were there and we sent them back to their cowardly master. Probably why those 3 just ran past" He leaves it at that with a smile and determined look and a pat to the thigh, he had others to tell the same mix of truth and lie to.
Bluff 15
Spells: Acid Ray 8/8 30' range Innate: 1st lvl: 7/7 2nd lvl: 4/5
Mortimer Margrave (Stephen F.): ac:22/17/19. temp/hp:48/34. shield, false life Sunday March 5th, 2023 2:29:34 PM
It was probably wise, Mortimer thinks, that Grog hadn't asked him to help serve drinks. No one wants a drink given by their gravedigger. Nor a handshake, cold to the touch, likened to that of a corpse. So he decides to sit on the darker side of the room at a table seemingly by himself.
'i don't fault you for being drawn to Wardd.' says a voice out of the corner of Mortimer's eye. The voice belonging to Lord Ambrose Margrave; a very distant relative. A dark figure only seen and heard by Mortimer, unless one possessed a particular set of perceptions.
'you may know him as a god, but in my day, he was but a mortal man. a man who was one of the finest soldiers, most courageous of warriors, i had ever known. he didn't rely on dumb luck, mind you. he was highly skilled, cunning and unpredictable; he made his own luck. Wardd was the most worthy of adversaries. i can only imagine he would be an equally valuable ally.'
Mortimer takes another sip from his drink.
Drack (Chris J) - hp 35/35 - AC 18 d20+8=12 ; Sunday March 5th, 2023 6:52:25 PM
Drack will try and work the room using diplomacy (12) to try and further calm the fears of the people.. he will take some time at each table to try and answer any questions they have, to the best of his ability. He will answer honestly, and if anyone asks, he will be happy to talk about Domi and his relationship annd beliefs after being invited to be one of his holy warriors.
Mole; (RichP) AC 18; HP 48/48; CMD 16 Sunday March 5th, 2023 8:58:43 PM
Disgusted at what he saw, the lifeless body of Walker being carried back through the Gates to Koshe Marr. He looks at the humans, turns and walks away. "Such fickleness of the surface dwellers." He stops by the boarding house, only to leave a note for the others at the desk. He then gathers some kegs of ale, smoked meats and other hardy food stuffs, packed in a small keg, before heading back to his cave.
His note at the boarding house says in dwarven [/b]You know where to find me if something happens[/b]. It is signed Grund Fyrbend.
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