


	LOG ON

The Platinum Dragons Archives

Return To Index

To the ruins of Elzid's tower

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 5
Thursday December 12th, 1996 4:00:40 AM
Nonam takes the gold and offers it to Jus.

Nonam then looks at the group, "Well the journey to Elzid's is a walk of a few hours. Unless any of you have horses or wish to spend the money Loren gave us on some horses, I suggest that we get moving. We want to be well away from the ruins of Elzid's tower by nightfall... I promise."

Gareth begins walking toward the ruins a bit impatiently observing the other three characters. He asks "Does anybody know anything about these ruins or about this evil wizard? How about any rumors around town? And would you please speak normally? I don't understand all your foreign talk."

The party heads north towards the tower, planning to arrive around mid-afternoon.

During the walk to the tower, Jus addresses Nonam. "You seem to know the importance of Loren's 'Sage of the Golden Braid' title. Why did it shock you, when I asked for assurance? And for that matter, why do you trust him so implicitly?"

He continues his questions of Nonam as they walk. "Nonam, I must admit I have never seen anyone 'leak' when you touch things. Why does this happen?"

Continuing his questioning of the group Jus addresses the dwarf who hasn't spoken since his initial introduction of himself: "Smiley, what caused you to 'find your faith' and come out of your mountain home?"

After the party leaves the city and is somewhat isolated Jus tells Gareth, "Thanks for coming along." Trying to help him feel at ease Jus prods, "Do you enjoy fighting?"

When the conversation turns to the task at hand, Jus makes the suggestion, "Perhaps, we should find Erilyn's family before we enter the tower ruins. We could then determine the nature of her relationship with Elzid."

The party enjoys the late fall weather as they trudge north into the red hills, known for its orc bands and their demi-human friends. Another hour of travel should find them at the tower.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Thursday December 12th, 1996 4:30:40 AM

Much better turns this time kids! I didn't have to change nary a thing.

Oh, Hello Tim! Out there wherever you are! We're like missing you. I went by your parents house as per your request. It was before school and no lights were on so I didn't ring the bell, but left a note. If you're having online problems, please call me and let us know of the problem.

Kids, missing turns will affect your experience. It will affect it less if you let us know you are gonna miss some turns.

Next turn is due Saturday night at 10CT. Since everyone has a working home address, I don't see a problem with the weekend due date. If you need more time, just send a note. Oh, but then you could have just done your turn in the same amount of time.....hehe.

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 6
Monday December 16th, 1996 4:00:40 AM
Nonam responds to Jus's questions: "Loren has been the sage in this town for years. All know that he is as kind hearted as he is wise. He has also allowed me frequent use of his library: something few in his position would allow someone like me. Since he has shown trust in me, I return that trust. As far as the significance of his title goes, there are volumes written on the subject. I suggest you read 'Musings on the Braid' by the gnome Gunter. Loren has a copy that is translated into common if you don't know gnomish... though I confess after having read both that it loses a great deal in the translation."

Nonam continues. "Leaking?... Oh, you mean the glowing. Well that's a long story indeed. Let's just say that it's a curse."

Jus, in turn, tells Nonam, "Your offer of the gold speaks volumes about you character, thank you."

Gareth answers Jus. "Yes I do. It's a lot better than plowing fields. Finally something I can do on my own and not have to be so tied down to one place."

Gareth listens intently as Jus and Nonam talk, taking in the answers to his questions.

When Nonam notices the stranger, he stops and waits to see what the man wants.

Gareth moves to the nearest area which appears least hazardous for combat (i.e. flat unobstructed ground) and there takes a neutral posture and waits ready to draw bow or sword as appropriate as the robed man approaches.

The stranger motions to you to get your attention. When he has it, he says, "Pardon me sirs. Are you headed for the tower?

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday December 16th, 1996 4:30:40 AM

Kevin, please go ahead and give us a little discourse or a progression of conversation so that we can move on after this turn. No use spending a week to get a new character into the group. :)

David and John have both experienced email problems over the weekend. I was busy myself. For these reasons, mainly the third, this turn is late. Expect more of the same throughout the holidays. :) Still no word from Tim. I'll role-play his exit soon with the possibility of re-entering the game should he resurface. (Hi Tim)

Next turn due Wed. 12/18 at 10CT.

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 7
Monday December 23rd, 1996 4:00:40 AM
Jus walks back to Nonam and stands beside him to greet the stranger. "Well met, sir."

Since this human appears to be another sorcerer, and Jus previously bungled the conversation with Loren, he defers the rest of the discourse to Nonam.

Nonam replies to the robed figure, "Dear sir, we are indeed going to the ruins of A tower. As to whether or not it is THE tower to which you refer, I have no idea."

Gareth says nothing. Just watches closely.

The stranger lightly steps from his horse and settles in to tell his story.... "I am Gideon. I grew up in these parts, but have been studying the various magical arts in various places of late. I have a personal interest in Elzid's tower. You see, he was seeing a very special childhood friend of mine, Erilyn Windfellow. I did not and do not approve of this liaison. In arcane circles this," and here he spits before saying the name, "Elzid is known as the worst of Mages: one who courts the favors of the lower powers. He is - or was - evil, completely and irrevocably. When Erilyn wrote to me that she was seeing him, I hastily concluded my studies and returned home to talk some sense into her and to take care of him should he harm her. I communed with Master Kenither last evening and discovered to my great amazement that the demon-controlled maggot got himself killed. I also discovered to my horror that Erilyn left for the tower to find out the fate of her courtesan. I must find her! Will you help me? May I join you?"

Gareth moves toward the tower just as soon as Gideon breaks his oratory. He says, "It's getting late. We should go."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday December 23rd, 1996 4:30:40 AM

Sorry once again for the late turn.

Tim hopefully will rejoin us with this next turn.

Everyone meet Kevin who is playing Gideon, assuming he is accepted... hehe.

John dropped by our D&D game Sunday night and it was good to see him. He caught us not playing for once. I wasn't in the mood to DM after Granny's passing two hours earlier so we just goofed off.

This turn is due on Wed. at 10CT. I won't be upset though if it goes longer cause that is Xmas day.

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 8
Friday December 27th, 1996 4:00:40 AM
The dwarf walks forward to the stranger and holds out his hand saying, "It is good to find someone else who cares little for this evil mage. I would enjoy your company in this endeavor and anything that I could do to help in finding your friend is at your service."

After Gideon finishes his spiel, Nonam looks him in the eye, "You may accompany us to the tower, but Loren instructed us to primarily investigate the cause of Elzid's death. If he summoned a creature or a demon, it could be loose in the countryside. We must ascertain whether or not this be the case before we can concern ourselves with your friend. Though I have a feeling that investigating the tower will yield clues as to the whereabouts of the maid Erilyn."

Kolath then turns toward the rest of the group and says, "I have been contemplating things while we have traveled here and I remember hearing one of you saying you were cursed. Now, in my experience, if we are to trust each other with our lives then we all should know things about each other that might bring ill-fortune down onto all of our heads. So, good-sir, what exactly is this curse of yours and how might it affect us all?"

Kolath then turns back to Gideon and again holds out his hand and says, "Forgive me of my rudeness but let me introduce myself. I am Kolath Swiftaxe."

Nonam eyes Gareth waiting impatiently for the group to continue and nods in his direction, "He's right. We should get going."

Gideon responds, "Gentlepersons, I thank you. I am dreadfully concerned for Erilyn. The tower is a long hour away."

It is mid-afternoon. The fall breeze is brisk and invigorating. The party passes into an area of dense brush and copses of elm, hickory, and juniper trees.

You approach a hill of grass and wildflowers surrounded by footpaths and copses of trees. Scattered on the hill are the stony remnants of Elzid's tower. The rings of debris clearly indicate the magnitude of the explosion that destroyed the structure. Tight clusters of blasted rock mark the area where the tower once stood on the hill's peak.

Rings of broken stone cover the hill's surface. The hill itself is quite smooth and featureless, save for the rash of dandelions and wild flower patches.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday December 27th, 1996 4:30:40 AM

No turn from Kevin, John, or David. I know all have been busy and have heard from all three. :)

As far as adding new members, we will use the same rules as in the local game. Anyone may join the group as long as there are no objections from any current member. Should we have a "checking each other out period as we do in the local game" of four weeks before giving new players full status?

Next turn is due on Sunday at 10pm CT.

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 9
Tuesday December 31st, 1996 4:00:40 AM
Nonam answers Kolath's question about the curse, "I'm the one who said I was afflicted with a curse, but I'm not really. It's what I say to explain why everything I touch glows."

Gareth continues to hike toward the tower. He asks Gideon, "What can you tell us about the tower? Do you know what might be causing all these disappearances and what caused the explosion?"

When they get to the tower, Nonam goes directly to the center of the explosion and begins searching through the debris. After a few minutes he notices that amidst the wreckage lies a damaged gargoyle statue, evidently a grim fixture of the tower that once was. However he stops short when all of a sudden he notices that his Bracers are glowing!

Gareth draws his sword and begins surveying the rings of stone, careful not to step into any one of them. He is seemingly careful and sniffs the air occasionally. He tests his footing as he proceeds in a circular pattern around the base of the hill. He stops as he realizes that he was beginning to get separated from the group and then realizes that the group has separated in various directions by their own volition. He stops short then as he smells something amiss and looking ahead, face down in the grass, a human corpse lies here, surrounded by the tower's debris. The corpse is wearing clothes but appears to have no weapons or equipment of any kind.

Jus looks around to see if the explosion spread debris in one direction or equally in all directions and discovers that it does. He also tries to gauge where in the tower the explosion took place and realizes that he cannot determine anything about that yet. He searches at the limit of everyone's vision.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Tuesday December 31st, 1996 4:30:40 AM

Concerning our discussion on the size of the group and consequences thereof:

JK says: I think if we run two groups of four that they should be able to meet occasionally. Maybe have each group working on different parts of the same quest? Of course with the speed we're going at it might take a year until our paths cross again. Someone new is fine with me.

David says: Regardless of how the game is run, I have these preferences in no particular order of importance: 1) The group stays the same which I play in whether it be 4 or 8. 2) John and I are in the same group. 3) You DM the group I am in. Hope this helps. I'm easy on adding new players. I'll defer to your wisdom on that issue since you have more experience.

John says: Fine by me to include another person, you do most of the work (thanks again!).

Kids, we will therefore be adding Tom's character to the group just as soon as it passes muster with JK. (JK, will you send him a copy of the appropriate files to make a character? Thanks. Tim, also wanted another copy.)

Kevin has yet to get his turn in. Everyone write him and Kirk and yell and scream at them in a fun friendly sort of way.

Kevin! Get in gear!

Kirk! Ya gonna play or not!!!?

Tim is in the process of buying a computer of his own. He says he'll go inactive until about half way through January and then bring in a new different character. This brings me to my soapbox sermon #1. Develop characters you want to stick with! I'm letting Tim change characters this ONE time. It is not my policy, especially during the middle of a module. I expect all of you to stick with the one you have until 4th level when you may proposition me for a second character to play if you feel you must. This way we build characters who bond with each other as you each bond with your character. {Pass the collection plates now}

Tim, please roleplay your exit next turn or I will. :)

I waited this time until I had three players with turns in to proceed. In the future, I'll go ahead when possible. You see, this time if I had proceeded something nasty would have happened to the players that were active rather than the ones who hadn't sent in turns. If that situation arises again, it will be those who didn't send in a turn who will receive the nasty.

If you go out of town or will be inactive for a time, please let me know a set of dates. Remember that if you can't get online or send mail, you can always call me and leave your turn on the phone. At least you can leave a message saying what the problem is.

Next turn due Friday, 1/3 at 10:00CT that's 9MT for you John, and 8PT for you Tom/Tim.

Talk at you soon,

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 10
Friday January 3rd, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Gareth turns the corpse over with his foot to and announces that the victim is male. He continues to examine the individual trying to figure out things, but getting frustrated from thinking too long.

Gareth then draws his shield prepared for anything with the discovery of the body and the gargoyle. As Jus approaches, Gareth whispers when the others are in ear shot "Perhaps the gargoyle is some sort of guard... Um...Maybe it's bad. Gareth think something. Not sure what."

Jus goes over to Gareth to see if he has discovered anything. When he sees the body by Gareth he quickly draws his long sword and approaches.

Jus starts to check for life with his free hand and then stops as he realizes the obvious. has not already.

Jus then glances at the ground nearby and sees that the area has been brushed with a branch.

When Nonam's bracers start to glow, he immediately and quickly begins to move toward Jus and Gareth while calling, "Everyone come here! I think I found something, and I think it's dangerous."

At this moment, Nonam hears a voice that whispers emphatically, "Yes! It's gonna explode! Throw it away!"

Nonam pauses for a moment, then quickly removes one bracer, throws it one way behind the hill, and then removes the other and throws it to the east away from the party.

Jus catches sight of Kolath disappearing back to the south, snorting and harumphing.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday January 3rd, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Here are some comments from David: to respond to your 'probing': No problem with any of the scenarios you laid out. I'm not real intolerant or anything. Its just my major goal in doing this is to establish regular communication with you and John. As secondary issues I like stability in a game. I do not like constant changes in the group of players (i.e. here this week gone the next here again, etc.). It makes it too confusing and people make mistakes and false assumptions as to players ideas actions and such. In addition, I have no aversion to meeting new people but my primary interest lies in communicating with old friends. New friends are good but guys just out of high school can't really relate to life in the 'real world' yet and probably would like to be with guys their own age as good friends anyway. Although I imagine it would lend itself to opportunities to be a good influence and all that I'm interested in simplicity in my 'discretionary' time.

Those are my thoughts on the issue(s). I'll probably be happy with just about any scenario. Hope this helps.

I agree with David in that we need to strive for some stability. I'm therefore declaring that we will have groups of four. Others may adventure with this group of four until a second group of four forms. We'll proceed in this manner as a group of four is ideal for email gaming in my opinion.

Right now, I see three active players: JK, John, and David. They will be the first three to be in a group. The others of you have not been regular enough yet to be added as a permanent player to a permanent group. The race is on. I'm not gonna tos the others from playing. That's not the idea of online gaming. I'll keep on encouraging them. However, I'm not going to keep the active players waiting on players who may never become dependable either.

Dave, I don't know Tom yet, but everyone else in this group is way past high school. JK teaches at Midwestern while working on a masters degree. Tim is 26 or so and has experienced much of life. Kevin has been a marine and Kirk is a college graduate. JK and Kirk are both married. Everyone here is a close friend of mine and I hope that with time, you can all become friends with each other.

Dave continues: Sorry for the lapse in email. Will you still give your bonuses if we can prove we sent you our turn but it didn't get to you?

Yes, David I will. Also if you are using an internet provider and request it I'll send a quick reply when receiving email from you to let you know it got here. I'm assuming David would like me to do this.

John pontificates: Yea, Yea. We all know the real story with Tim's character. Kolath is just afraid to be near Jus and decided to turn yellow and run.

Kevin? Where are you?

Kirk, thanks for the note, but I've received no call yet to meet. You're a businessman! Take the initiative!

David, don't forget what your stats are in the area of Int. and Wis. Those are awful big words in your quotes. <G> I made an intel. check and oops you missed it.

(This is my official pick on David issue. Sounds like it huh? Dave, I Loooove you Maan!...and I did pick on some others too!)

And Um...JK? You failed a save as well. Go fig?

Attached is a simple drawing of the hill and everyone's position. The rings are the rings of the explosion. Most of the debris seem to lie in expanding rings of rubble. You can read it using "Paint"

The next turn due Sunday 1/5 at 10CT.

See everyone soon!

Jerry

p.s. If you don't hear from me anymore, it means Kirk actually rolled up a character and I had a heart attack as a result. :)

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday January 6th, 1997 4:00:40 AM

Intro. From The Jericho: We now seem to have the idea of how to word a turn so that the DM doesn't have to change much before running the turn. We're still playing somewhat sporadically. The characters are developing nicely with each one finding a niche within which to role-play.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 11b
Monday January 6th, 1997 4:30:40 AM
Gareth squats down to avoid any backwash from the explosion and continues to look around and search the area. Almost immediately his eyes fall upon a scorched book. The title reads, "The Making of a Good Tyrant."

Nonam, ducking and waiting for the certainty of the upcoming explosion, moves away from the center of the blast area toward Jus and Gareth. At which point he waits and begins deftly organizing some materials within his cloak.

Jus watches Kolath run away and bitterly spits, "So much for the mighty dwarves giving us any aid we need or want at anytime! More like anytime it suits them!"

Looking back at the body, Jus asks, "Anyone know what this Elzid looked like?"

As Jus draws his short sword with his off hand (his right) he asks Nonam, "First you call us to you, and now you're throwing away your bracers. What are you up to?"

From around the back side of the hill a figure approaches scimitar casually drawn and calls out, "Greetings, I am Korok. Seems that you have some trouble. Might I be of aid?" As he talks, he takes in everything around him, absorbing his surroundings.

Korok is a large, brutish looking man, with dark skin, and black hair. Not exactly ugly, his orc blood shows in the sharp teeth, and unusually large canines. He speaks loudly, but his most unusual characteristic is his large bulging eyes which makes him seem slightly crazy.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Monday January 6th, 1997 5:00:40 AM

Jerry says: I apologize to David for making a mistake on his intelligence.

Tom says: So that everyone knows, I am 26 years old, spend 2 years in Germany in the army, and a few months in Desert Storm. I have an associates in electronics engineering, and am working on my bachelors. (though I may not spell very well). Is that well enough out of High School?

Tim says: It's Tim Wybiral...learn to spell my last name correctly!!!!!! It's also Tacoma, not Takoma. And starting either next week or the week after, I will be having a new aol address.

Jerry says: Wybiral.....Got it. Or was that Winebarrel?

Next turn due Tues. Night. I'm sending this Mon. morning. As we played past 1AM last night. I still think we can make a Tue. Deadline.

Kevin expresses his regrets, but his work hours are not matching times that he can get access to his brother Kirk's computer so he apologizes and drops out for now. His dad is putting in a new modem at home within a month or so and hopes to be back on soon.

Remember, that "you" as characters are not required to accept anyone into your group of adventurers, if that is what we have yet. At the same time, remember that it takes time to develop a character as a player. You know your character and how he/she will react to certain things. Balance those two things and roleplay as you see fit. Those who roll up unusual characters are being told by JK and I that they run the risk of not being accepted at which point they are back to the drawing board to roll up a new character. However don't pick on the new guys. Is that enough to wash some mud over the whole issue? Good.

Enjoy the day,

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 11c
Wednesday January 8th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Gareth picks up the book and looks it over. He almost immediately notices a letter stuffed inside addressed to a wizard by the name of Eli Luzfador. It reads,

"I cannot believe that the infernal dukes would reward me so unfairly, especially after all of my evil deeds. I ask for a legion of baatezu, and instead I get one measly . . . (letter burned here) . . . . Would you be so kind as to return the book you borrowed from me last winter. There are some particularly nasty spells inside, as you well know, the may be useful."

He offers it to Jus or Nonam asking "Can you learn anything from this?".

He listens to Nonam's answer about the bracers and looking at what he's messing with in his cloak if visible. Gareth asks "Are those things really going to explode?" If so he yells to the newcomer to warn him about the explosion. He also asks "Why did they explode?" or "Why did you think they were going to explode?" - whichever is appropriate.

Gareth stands ready with this new visitor. He leaves the conversation to somebody else but listens and watches ready.

Gareth continues his search pattern as soon as safely possible but will suspend this action if a prior action causes an unanticipated delay in the chain of events.

Nonam answers Jus's question: "I called to you because my bracers began to glow - which is certainly a sign of foul magic. I threw them away because I heard a voice tell me that they would explode. Now get down!"

When Nonam notices the stranger on the hill he yells, "GET DOWN!! THEY'RE GOING TO EXPLODE!!!"

Nonam begins to wonder when his bracers will explode. He starts to look around, an expression of curiosity on his face.

Since Nonam appears to be expecting some type of action, Jus crouches and looks around.

Seeing the orc approach, Jus positions himself between the orc and Nonam.

Noticing the casual appearance of the newcomer, Jus decides he is probably not what is concerning Nonam. Jus addresses the orc saying, "Hold and be still for a moment, mighty hunter."

Jus begins listening and looking around again. All the while he keeps a wary eye on the newcomer, still not entirely sure of him.

Korok stares around the hill at everything he can see. At the various persons on the hill, and at the burn mark upon the ground. Glowering about, he waits with an unusual patience for one of his kind.

He sees an elf crouching carefully with a long sword drawn; a human glancing over his shoulder and looking capable, but slightly confused; and another human examining a book also wearing splint.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Wednesday January 8th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

John says: I know, I know. This is only the second time it has happened, but...

I admit I have been ignoring my character's desire to refuse allowing characters to just walk in and join the group. I feel that any allowance of this role-playing, albeit appropriate, would keep us in the "Intro Turns" for even longer. It seems it would disruptive with e-mail every time someone comes in -- even without role-playing the questioning and acceptance of the new character.

I had made the personal "assumption" that Sir Gideon had some type of letter with Loren's seal which was recognizable to Nonam. I know that it circumvented "real" character reactions, but it also allowed play to continue uninhibited. If you would allow it, I would like to make the same type of assumption again. If not, please let me know and I will react to Korok's appearance in the next turn.

Jerry says: I agree John, and if you feel you can adventure with the new PC's as they come in, fine let's get it over with and move on. I've used the same reasoning for some of the things I've done so far. However, don't let a PC join up that you don't feel you can't live with. You were here first.

Gentlemen, as things stand now, we have a group of three. These three are a permanent group. Hopefully, Tom will complete this group with four people. At that point, we will work on getting a group of at least three to form a second group. These two groups may get together occasionally or work together on something if they want to. By having two separate groups, I can run the same adventures with both groups and at the end we can compare how each did.

Possible players for the second group could be: Tim (once he gets his own computer), Kevin (once he gets set up with a modem at his parents house), Anthony (once he saves up for a modem) [he does have the disk for the free Juno email software which Scott Carpenter is now using-he emailed me the other day], Kirk, if he ever gets around to rolling up a character, or anyone else who is recruited. We're not going to advertise on AOL or anything, but spread things by word of mouth. I have my doubts about some of the above as to when or if they will join....best intentions don't stack up against real life sometimes as you know. Feel free to recruit a friend if ya want.

Why do I have a feeling that Tim will be begging us to add a fifth sometime soon when most of the others wash out. (No cut to the others, of course. I looove all of you maaaan!)

Ya know, if we weren't friends, I couldn't jibe you guys or open up all these cans of worms, now could I?

I really feel privileged to get to play with your guys again. You too Tom. This is really bringing back memories and I hope creating new ones.

Thanks for everyone turning in their turns on time. Yippee!

Next turn due Thurs. 1/9 at 10pmCT.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 12a
Friday January 10th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Korok seems to finally understand the difference, in this explosion and that explosion, and spins the scimitar in his hand, so that it comes to lay along his arm. He then crouches. He seems surprised at Jus' reply, smiling in a toothy grin, but nodding to him.

Nonam seemingly forgets about the bracers when he sees Gareth with the book. "Don't open that! There could be some type of ward on it. Many mages put traps in their tomes. If you looked at the wrong page, it could kill you... or worse. I've been properly trained to avoid the traps, however, and I can look at it without harm. Additionally, this book could be valuable to our search; I should probably examine it." Then Nonam looks at Jus, "That is unless you wish to examine it, warrior. Though I don't recommend that one trained with the sword try."

Gareth says "I wonder if one of those 'nasty' spells caused this explosion? Maybe we can find this book and from whom the letter came? It might help. And what voice told you to that they were going to explode? Where did it come from?"

Gareth searches the body of the man looking for anything. Looking specifically for birthmarks, missing teeth or appendages (fingers and such which were not caused by whatever killed him), etc.

Gareth starts with surprise as he notices a swollen place on the neck of the victim about the size of a walnut with a sting mark of some kind.

Gareth glances around searching successfully and mutters, "Someone might check out that cauldron there up the hill."

While Jus continues to duck, he asks Nonam, "Could it be that by throwing your bracers away they are no longer near the source of bad-magic, and are no longer in danger of exploding? Where were you when they began to glow?"

After a moment, Jus realizes what Nonam said and asks, "How often do you hear voices telling you what to do?"

After reading the letter, Jus asks if anyone knows what these 'baatezu' are.

After waiting a couple more minutes for the explosion, Jus gets up and greets the large man, "Welcome newcomer, if you are willing to aid Sage Loren in gathering the information he requests, you are welcome to our group."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday January 10th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Tom - Thanks for the welcome. I hope I can be a good addition to the game...do not fear, I do not start in games that I do not intend to continue playing (barring unfortunate circumstances of course).

John- Your last message came across moderately laced with garbage and was difficult to read. You doing anything different or did I just receive line-chatter?

Jerry- I did nothing different. I'm guessing it was line chatter.

John- What is the free Juno e-mail and does it have non-WF,TX dial-ups.

Jerry- It is a free email service paid for by advertisers. Instead of paying a monthly fee, you have to read advertisements in areas of your interests. Scott Carpenter is using it now and could make you a copy. Email him and ask him about it. Anthony has it as well, but hasn't used it yet. I'll ask him for a copy to send you so you can check it out. Local numbers are being added and they have a 800 number until then.

When desired, I have a few local friends that may be interested in playing. I was also thinking of contacting Sydney Deem in London. Any thoughts?

Jerry- I think it would be great to add Sydney. Guys, I played with Sydney and John in another campaign once. I don't think Sydney ever played in my campaign. He is a great guy and would fit in well. That would give us two in the second group. You are the best judge of your friends. Introduce them to us as you see fit.

Guys, also if someone ever wants to switch to the second group and has someone to take his place in the first group, we can do so if no one objects, but we want to keep movement to a minimum. I suppose, a player could play a character in both groups if he wanted to.

I'm adding Scott Carpenter to our mailing list (Hi Scott) to interest him in playing and so he can read the adventures for his amusement. Most of you know him as David's little brother. Hehe.

I'm selecting/writing the next adventure now and am open to any input as to things you would like to do and places you'd like to visit. This will make more sense when you get the maps and legends for the campaign. Possibilities....Lankhmar, The Floating City, Plateau City, Dirt City, The Underdark, Culverwood, The Scab, Orc hunting in Izen or the Red Hills, etc. Most of the usual plot lines are there. Tell me what you envision your character doing or becoming or wanting to do.

Next turn is due Saturday 1/11CT at 9:00pmCT (I'm changing the time to 9 so I can get the turn done earlier in the evening.

Have a great day,

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 12b
Sunday January 12th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Gareth says "Something stung this guy. We'd better keep a look out for thing coming out of the ground or flying creatures!"

Gareth attempts to determine the path of the man who died. Did he come from the general direction of the cauldron or some other way? "Which direction did he come from? I can't tell. Can anybody figure it out? Maybe we can find this thing that killed him."

Gareth waits to hear responses to his questions before proceeding to the cauldron slowly. He approaches with caution unless warned off. Then he will wait for whoever volunteered to go look.

Nonam takes the book, notes its title, "Demonchildren: Childrearing in Hell" and begins to look through it in an effort to see what it's about.

Nonam responds to Jus, "I never hear voices in my head, but when I was by the statue of the gargoyle in the center I heard one. Apparently the bracers aren't going to explode though. I guess I'll go pick them up."

Nonam begins to go pick up his bracers when he stops and continues speaking to Jus, "I believe a baatezu is a type of demon. I wouldn't worry about it though. The letter says they never appeared."

Nonam walks off to get his bracers and continues looking through the book. He finds the first one without even looking up from the book.

Still grinning as Jus approaches, he sheathes his scimitar, and extends his arm to Jus, grasping his hand in a strong warrior's grip (hand to forearm). "Korok of the Q'ulada of clan Kaplag. I thank you. What is this Lorien looking for, and what has happened here?" Looking about with interest. He seems to have a rather intelligent look about him, though his eyes are unsettling from this close.

Jus hesitates for a moment before handing the letter and book to Nonam. "I'll go take a look at the cauldron", he says as he turns away.

After examining the cauldron and finding the usual deposits of strange substances usually found on the inside of Mage's cauldrons, Jus walks towards the remains of the tower base, examining things as he goes. About halfway there he spots an intact jar full of rose petals.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Sunday January 12th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

David says: I cannot open the map to look at it. It appears as garbage. You may need to mail me a copy.

Jerry says: Don't worry about it. All it contained was locations of the PC's on the hill just like I showed a couple of turns ago. The only thing I added to that was three concentric rings to represent the elevation in height. There's nothing there critical or even hinted at.

David says: I take it we're not going to see Star Trek?

Jerry says: I guess not. How about Star Wars the weekend of the 29th?

JK says: Where to go next? Maybe Culverwood? Not the part with Parnoth. The magic part. Or maybe one of the cities (Floating or Plateau)

Tom says: Hmmm...Orc hunting in the Izen, that would be interesting. That might give Korok the chance to gain fame and his people would hear about it too...."Korok Kill!"

Jerry says: I'm going to leave this totally up to you for now guys. However, the sooner you decide the better the adventure should be cause of the time factor. :)

Tom says: What information can I get about the Izen, so that I can figure out a little more about the area Korok and his tribe live in.

Jerry says: I'm working hard on getting a book maps made, some in color, of all the significant gaming areas including cities. When that comes out, Kinko's is doing it with Scott Marley's help (he's a current local player who works there) I'll tell you guys how much it took to get the copies done. I'm doing some of the copying myself and all the assembling so that the cost it less. Some of the maps need to be resized significantly and some just will not come out properly unless they remain in color. Are you guys willing to pay a bit for the map booklet? I don't think I can justify paying for all of them.

As I've mentioned before, my computer caught a nasty virus in October and we lost hundreds of files concerning the Wold. Most of it was in hard copy as well, so I type them back in as it becomes necessary. I"ll get a copy of the legend of Izen to you as soon as possible. I'm going to give your ideas to Scott Marley as they develop, because he has spent much effort lately in that area to develop it and has done a fantastic job.

Sorry about this being a day late. Sometimes real life takes over and fun has to wait. It's usually takes me from 30-45 minutes to run a turn.

Next turn due Tuesday 1/14, at 9CT.

See ya then,

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 13
Wednesday January 15th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Jus hesitates for a moment and then hands Nonam the book and letter. "I'll go look at the cauldron.", he says as he turns away. (Uh, didn't we do this last turn?)

When he has finished examining the cauldron and its surroundings, Jus begins searching, walking towards the remains of the tower base. (Uh, didn't we do this last turn?)

Nonam picks up the bracer he found and heads off to find the other.

As he walks past Korok, he says, "Greetings. Korok of the Q'ulada of clan Kaplag."

Nonam continues to look for his second bracer.

Gareth continues his original spiraling search pattern finding nothing else immediately.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Wednesday January 15th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

A note from Tim:

Jerry, Even though I did get my new computer I still don't have a phone line yet. The people I rent the garage apartment from won't let me install a new phone line into the garage. They are old and set in their ways. Tom said I could still send mail on his computer and I am going to chip in with the Aol bill so, can I get into the game again? I promise to be a good boy this time. Tim

Do you guys want to add a fifth player, Tim's second character or have him wait until a second group of four is formed? Input from all four of you please.

The next turn is due Thursday 1/16 at 9pmCT.

See ya soon,

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 14
Friday January 17th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Jus kneals down and looks in the jar of rose petals. He then picks the jar up to get a better look. Jus then lets loose with a "Hmm." Jus then tells Nonam, "I guess you'll be wanting these as well. Let me know if they are 'trapped'."

Jus then continues towards the tower's base, examining as he goes. He stops seeing something glinting in the late afternoon sun. A broken Crystal Ball.

Korok will continue to follow Jus until something happens. As he scans the ground he notices a scrap of paper to his left with writing on it.

Nonam puts the book away and continues to look for the bracer. Using his vast intelligence he finds it. It seems to actually drop out of the air and hit the ground about 20 feet in front of him. It falls from the height of about 4 feet. He then hears a scuffling sound, but sees nothing.

Gareth continues his search pattern spiraling upward toward the tower base looking for clues or for an entrance into any underground rooms of compartments. He keeps a look out for anything approaching the hill as well. He spots a second body. Definitely female. Definitely dead.

The hill begins to draw longer shadows as the afternoon continues into evening. The hill is about 30 feet tall and 90' in circumference. The debris seems to be everywhere with concentrations of three rings of extra heavy rock refuge leading down the hill. There is a central core of refuge near the center as well where the gargoyle was found. The scrub forest encroaches to within 20 feet of the hill. Trails lead off in all compass point directions.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Friday January 17th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

John says: Wherever to adventure is fine. Jus may tag along -- if he doesn't think it will be too boring.

Small cost is fine as well.

Let's try this again. This is what I sent last night for my response to turn 13 (or so I thought). Just use it for turn 14.

Jerry says: I'm not sure whether you sent in the same turn twice or I made a mistake so let's assume that I made a mistake. Sorry bout that. :)

David says: I'll be out of town Friday through Monday. I will be back at a PC either Monday night or Tuesday morning. I suspect I'll miss a turn. Gareth will continue searching and finding. f anything needs killing that's fine too....

Jerry says: No prob. Dave. Thanks for the notice. I'd love to kill off, I mean play your PC for a turn., but I think you'll be back in time.

Next turn is due Mon. 1/20.

Have a good weekend.

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 15
Saturday January 18th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
"Hmmm...." Korok kneels down, and picks up the paper. "I wonder, could this help? I do not know how to read. " he waves the paper at anyone who looks.

Nonam puts his bracers back on, and returns to look near the gargoyle. He continues to listen carefully for whatever he heard before.

When Jus asks Nonam about the rose petals, Nonam replies in a good natured way, "I sincerely doubt that a mage would put a trap in a jar of roses. They are most likely just some of his spell components, but, if it would comfort you, I'll look at it."

Gareth examines the second body and tries to figure out who she is and what killed her. Even though the body has been stripped like the other one, he can tell that this female was dressed as an adventurer. The style of dress is not Elennian, but Lankmarian. It then occurs to him that both of the bodies had the build of fighters. He almost immediately finds a similar sting mark on the neck. He continues his search.

He also says "We should move away from the hill and make camp before dark. I suggest we go back the way we came a mile or so. We can discuss what we've found so far."

Jus tries to estimate the light remaining and the time it would take to get the bodies back to the Sage's home. He announces that there is about one hour of light left.

Jus tells the others, "Assuming these two are the mage and woman Loren referred to, we could take them to the Sage for his examinations."

Jus continues going towards the base, looking through the rings of debris as he goes and arriving there without incident..

As Nonam looks around the gargoyle he notices a pile of rocks that seems to have been stacked there. As he turns to look, something stabs at his neck. Nonam quickly ducks and something penetrates his backpack. Noman maintains his balance.

As Jus arrives, he notices that something strikes at Nonam, but Nonam deftly dodges down and it misses. Something pointed enters his backpack and withdraws. You see no creature or weapon.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Saturday January 18th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

The opinions of the group are in concerning adding another player at this point in time. Putting these comments together, I have come up with this decision which seems to be what the majority wants to happen. We will try to put together a second "group" of three or four players of which Tim will be the first. If we are successful, great! If not Tim, if he wishes, will reenter this game with his new character at the beginning of the next adventure. I hope that this keeps everyone happy.

We have these possibilities for additional players:

John has a few friends he's mentioned who might be interested. Go to it John!

Kirk and or Kevin may be ready soon to play. Tim, start putting on the pressure to them.

Scott Carpenter could be talked into playing. Tim, tell him me should explore the character of Korig III, the grandchild of Korig. That should get him interested.

Tim, I'm not leaving you to do everything. I'll contact them as well, plus they are being contacted by this writing as well as all except John's friends receive this already. If we get three we can begin.

Tim and Scott playing together? AAAUUUUGH!!!!!

Next turn due Thurs. 1/23.

Jerry

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 16
Sunday January 19th, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Jus tells the others what he has just seen happen to Nonam and adds, "To overstate the obvious, I suggest everyone try to protect their neck." While saying this, Jus pulls out his slop (overshirt) and ties it around him leaving a bulk of it on the back of his neck. To no one in particular he says, "Don't know if this will help, but it certainly won't hurt."

While looking around and tying his shirt, Jus quietly tells Nonam, "I apologize for my comment about the roses being trapped. I was unsure if your desire to check for traps on the book was honesty or simple greed."

Jus then moves to put distance between himself and the pile of rocks -- putting his swords away. He thinks he has an idea what may be happening.

Jus calls to the others stating, "Mayhap those rocks mark the grave of this stinging creature's family or friend. The 'exploding bracers' could have been a warning for Nonam to get away from the grave. When Nonam approched again, it raised the warning to a threat. Sounds more like a reliable protector than a foe." Jus then turns around looking into the air and says, "We do not wish to desecrate this grave. Please let us talk before escalating this into conflict."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Sunday January 19th, 1997 4:30:40 AM

I forgot to respond about Tim, but the results are what I would prefer as well.

I will try to contact my friends (except Sidney) by this weekend.

Jerry Only -- By the way... Jus never really wanted to be a fighter, he prefers diplomacy, nature, and the beauty of magic-craft over arms. I know, I know, I'm letting my motives leak out again. At least this time you aren't getting a novel to describe them.

A Wizard's Fate: Turn 17
Tuesday January 21st, 1997 4:00:40 AM
Crouching down Nonam says to Jus and anyone else who can hear, "It's some type of flying, invisible creature with the ability to cast spells. They are also armed with some type of poisoned weapon. I don't think that it's any type of insect. I suspect something like a pixie." Nonam draws a dagger, listens intently for the flying sounds he heard before, and looks about for any type of disturbance or shadow that he could use to locate the attacker.

Nonam has an afterthought. "Korok I'll read your paper in a second."

Gareth says "These two were most likely adventurers. Look at their build. The woman was probably from Lanhkmar country. This man was too strong, young and well built to be a wizard. At least it appears that way."

At the sight of Nonam dodging, Gareth attempts to engage the attacker. He looks at the ground to see if he can determine the location of the attacker by foot movement or disturbance of the grass, debris, or dirt. He draws his shield as he springs into action. Seeing nothing, after a long moment of listening as he begins to work his way outward in the general direction of the attacker parrying with his sword.

Korok waits, looking about for anything else.

Jus tells the others what he has just seen happen to Nonam and adds, "To overstate the obvious, I suggest everyone try to protect their neck." While saying this, Jus pulls out his slop (overshirt) and ties it around him leaving a bulk of it on the back of his neck. To no one in particular he says, "Don't know if this will help, but it certainly won't hurt."

While looking around and tying his shirt, Jus quietly tells Nonam, "I apologize for my comment about the roses being trapped. I was unsure if your desire to check for traps on the book was honesty or simple greed."

Jus then moves to put distance between himself and the pile of rocks -- putting his swords away. He thinks he has an idea what may be happening.

Jus calls to the others stating, "Mayhap those rocks mark the grave of this stinging creature's family or friend. The 'exploding bracers' could have been a warning for Nonam to get away from the grave. When Nonam approached again, it raised the warning to a threat. Sounds more like a reliable protector than a foe." Jus then turns around looking into the air and says, "We do not wish to desecrate this grave. Please let us talk before escalating this into conflict."

No answer is heard. No motion is sensed. No tracks are left. Then, one lonely stone from the pile falls rolling down the hill as if in slow motion. A small hole is left where the rock had been.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments
Tuesday January 21st, 1997 4:30:40 AM

Sorry for the late turn. I've had difficulty getting online to AOL.

Next turn is due Friday, 1/24. John is going out of town and we're going to wait a day on him. :)

Tim has been located. He's back online. Tom, he called me several times over the weekend, but I was out each time :(.

Enjoy the day,

Jerry

Return To Index Next Scene (Amidst the Tower's rubble: Stairs going down)