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The Necromancer's Stones

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Tuesday January 6th, 1998 4:00:40 AM
Introduction From the Jericho: With this adventure it is decided to expand from 2 DMs to 4. JK will work with Keith and I (Jerry) will work with John. This module will be done by JK and Keith. In truth, JK ended up needing to take some time off so Keith did nearly all of this one. I think you'll notice a change in style from Keith. He likes to stay in character more and moves very fast through situations where the party is making a decision. Eternal thanks goes to Keith who gave JK and I a break from DMing which both of us sorely wanted and needed. He receives high praise from the group in these early turns for the way in which he gets us past the introductory material and quickly into the meat of the module.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 1 
Tuesday January 6th, 1998 4:30:40 AM
Jus continues trying to find out what the group wants to do after realizing that Daphne isn't paying him much attention to him this morning. It seems she doesn't feel well. Almost like a hangover. "Hmmm," Jus wonders, "could a ghost have a hangover. Must have had too many spirits." He laughs to himself as his thoughts wander. Suddenly he realizes that he's been daydreaming, and the elf sits up with a start. Then Jus asks, "I don't know about you guys, but I think I enjoy the outdoor adventuring more than this thieving business. Anyone got ideas on where to go?"

Nonam says, "I don't know if I'm in the mood for another adventure just yet. I still want to see the city."

Flaust indicates that she needs to spend a little more time meditating today in order to make up for the past few days of adventuring, and she heads up to her room.

Gareth, Tiburon, Onrad, Talvik, and Kat offer up no opinions on what they wish to do on this fine Monkey Day, so Jus and Nonam began a debate on whether or not they should go on a short excursion outside the city or finish the tour they began a few days ago. The debate goes on for some time. Right away Kat agrees with Nonam (afterall he's so charming), and Gareth agrees with Jus because he's sick of this stinking city.

Soon after, Onrad quickly takes up with Jus simply because he wants to disagree with Kat, but Tiburon takes up for Nonam because he doesn't want Kat to be the only one on Nonam's side. Afterall, how's he ever going to get a shot if Nonam's always with her.

That just leaves Talvik. Suddenly the quiet thief is the center of attention, and it seems to be making him nervous. However, Nonam and Jus don't care. In fact they're putting on quite a show. So much so that everyone who comes into the inn picks a side. The sides seem pretty equal, and everyone's either cheering the virtues of the countryside or singing the praises of the Big Float. Pretty soon, Jus and Nonam are enjoying the crowd, and the rest of the group (even Gareth) starts to have fun. It's a nice refresher after being locked in such a small cage.

Jus: The vibrant flowers with their beautiful fragrances! (YEAHHHH!!) Nonam: The outstanding architecture of the finest craftsmen in the Wold. (YEAHHHH!!) Gareth: Room to swing a sword and clean air to breathe. (YEAHHHH!!) Kat: The knowledge of the libraries (YEAHHHH!!) Onrad: NO CULT GODS (YEAHHHH!!) Tiburon: The beauty of the cathedrals (YEAHHHH!!) etc,etc,etc

Finally, Talvik reaches his breaking point and says, "Oh please, let's just get out of this inn." (booo!!!hiss!!boo!!)

He stands up and heads toward the door. "I've reached a decision." The crowd goes silent. "I say we go up to the Open Air Level. That way we can be in the great outdoors, and still enjoy the best parts of the city." The crowd gathered in the Giggling Ghost goes berserk & everyone cheers that Talvik is undoubtedly the wisest man in Floating City.

Then the Three try to head to the door, but everyone seems to want to go with the popular group. Seeing that his new best customers are trying to get out on their own, Happy cries out, "BREAKFAST IS ON THE HOUSE TODAY!!! DAPHNE GO GET THE EGGS!!!" The crowd screams out in delight once more and everyone begins to yell, "HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY! HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!HAPPY!"

Quickly the Three give Happy a silent nod of thanks and they slip out the door. As they walk down the street toward The Upramp, Onrad remarks, "I don't think I've ever had quite so much excitement at breakfast before."

The group continues on their way, and the sounds of the crowd have nearly faded, when a familiar voice cries out, "WAIT FOR ME." The group stops and sees Flaust running to catch up. "I don't think the Inn is a good place to meditate this morning. I was barely able to get my spells memorized. What did you guys do?" Immediately Nonam and Jus, start up with a retelling, and everyone begins to take up their parts in the middle of the street. When Talvik cries out, "NO!! not again. See Flaust this is what happened. Now let's go see the city."

The Three see everything that can be seen in one day in the Big Float. They start at the top and work their way down. The hit all four of the big temples (though they don't linger at Gargul's long). They stop and wonder at Garfolk's Tower of Timelessness. They take a look at Black Dragon castle and the Overlord's Palace. They catch a combat in the arena, and they marvel at the beauty of Treelight Lane. Then they head down to the next level, and they marvel at Mittiri's Temple of Flowers, Teresalia's Temple of Birds, and Karinthis's Glittering Sanctuary. Just before lunch they puzzle over Kerracles' Temple of Unity, and stop by Wardd's House of Luck for a quick game of cards. Then it's off to lunch at the Sabertooth Lounge. After lunch the group heads down to the Merchant Level, and they look through the shops. Gareth is plagued by merchants trying to sell him the finest sword ever made, but the response is always the same. Gareth asks the merchant, "You mean you have a sword better than this?" and he pulls out his blade. The response is always the same. The merchant marvels at the blade and silently shakes his head and walks away.

After one of these encounters, Nonam sees some little trinket in Critaceous' Curious Curios and buys it for Kat. She laughs and giggles though she has no idea what the thing is. Not to be outdone, Tiburon buys her some candy from a little shop on the straight way. Kat rewards the priest with a big hug. Suddenly Jus notices what is going on with Nonam and Tiburon, so he stops in Amon's House of Music and gives a little performance on a variety of instruments. Kat giggles in glee, and leaves the store on the elf's arm. Onrad just glowers and mutters something about cult gods at which point Kat declares, "Oh Onrad you're so cute." Finally he blushes and begins to stop going on about cult gods. All the while Flaust wonders to herself, "Why didn't they all treat me this way? Stupid men." Noticing this Gareth and Talvik begin to pay more attention to Flaust.

FINALLY, after full day, the group arrives back at The Inn of the Giggling Ghost. They walk in nothing but grins and sore feet ready for a much needed dinner. Then about halfway through dinner, a ragged looking Helo bursts through the front doors, "I need to speak to you Three right now." A man sitting near her snorts, "Hey are you drunk? There's eight of them." Suddenly the man is laying on the floor. Apparently Flaust hit him, but it was so fast it was hard to tell. She walks right up to the table and says, "I've been looking for you all day. Just where have you been?" Joyously Jus begins the list, but Flaust just gives him a look and he stops. Flaust goes on, "I have a dangerous job for you several days journey from here in a town near the Cursed Swamp. Basically a necromancer is trying to take control of the region. The rumor is, he's looking for the Undersea Passage. I'm sure you're all aware of what could happen if a necromancer got control of that. If you're interested, you'd have to leave within the hour. What do you say? Do you want the job? Answer quick because if you don't want it, I have to find someone else who will. Oh, I'm afraid this isn't a paying job. Of course you can probably find plenty of loot when you go to the Necromancer's castle. Okay, I need an answer. What's it going to be? Play in the big city or do a good deed?"

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Tuesday January 6th, 1998 5:00:40 AM
jk says -whew. I only got turns from D.Hill and John, I'm doing a turn every night whether you guys respond or not because Keith and I can get through this little adventure in a month, but not if we take too many breaks. Also make sure that you're all still replying to the Woldian address. On the brighter side, I hope you all liked this short little turn.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 2 
Wednesday January 7th, 1998 4:00:40 AM
Jus jumps up quickly, "You bet! We would ALL love to!" Trying to head off any arguments about staying in the city, Jus adds, "After all, I'm sure there will be lots of magical treasure in a Necromancer's lair!"

At the same time Gareth stands up out of excitement and concern, helps Helo into his chair and says "Of course we'll take it. What happened to you? Are you coming with us at least long enough to give us more information?"

Helo says, "I knew I could count on you. I'm sorry to barge in like this. I've just been looking all over town for you guys... all afternoon. So much has happened so fast." She pauses for a second. Then she looks at Onrad and says, "The journey will be a long one. You'll need supplies. Arrange it quickly." Then Helo sits back and says, "Gareth, I won't go with you. I'll tell you everything you need to know in a minute. Let me catch my breath while Onrad sees to the supplies."

Onrad, rushes out to the street and whistles twice until one of the "young guides" comes forward. Onrad asks, "Hey young man! Do you know where Theory lives?"

The kid looks at Onrad and says, "What kind of a name is Theory? and what are you asking me for? Do you know where Horchow lives?"

Not phased by the kid's rude behavior, Onrad looks the kid over and says, "I need rations for a trip. Lots of rations. 3 weeks rations for eight people. I'll give you 2 gold if you get quality traveling rations here within 30 minutes. Go boy. Go!"

The kid stands still for a moment. Then he slowly reaches into a pocket. He pulls out a platinum piece and tosses it to Onrad saying, "Why don't you take this and go back inside and tell all your smelly friends that today you met one of your betters." With that the insolent boy, walks away.

Onrad stands dazed for a moment, then he flags down another boy who jumps at the chance to earn 2 gold. He runs off into the distance to fetch some supplies, and Onrad goes back into the Giggling Ghost.

Onrad then turns to Helo and says, "Um Helo there. How do we get there? The southern route through the Emerald Kingdom is rather...um....congested right now with the Dark Tower and all. The northern route through Culverwood and the Windbourne Hills is always dangerous."

Helo says, I recommend going north through the Red Hills and then taking a boat down the Peaseblossom River through Culverwood. Get off just when you exit Culverwood and head north along the border of the Windbourn Hills. It won't be a safe journey, but it's the best you can do these days. Whatever you do don't go through Izen or the Emerald Kingdom, and don't stay on the Peaseblossom all the way to Shadow Mountain."

Flaust asks Helo, "Have arrangements already been made for transportation?"

Helo says, "There's a turtle waiting a the Fence Level to take you across the lake. You'll find horses waiting when you unload. You'll have to arrange your own transportation down the Peaseblossom."

Nonam says, "Now that all the little details are out of the way, what is the mission exactly? And if it's so important as you make it seem, why aren't you and the Red Tigers going?"

Helo says, "Good questions. I hope the answers are good enough. First of all, I don't know the specifics of the mission. One of the Red Tiger's 'contacts' in Osto sent us word that a necromancer has become active in the region. He's been attacking the town with undead and causing some trouble. Certainly not pleasant stuff, but it wasn't a real reason for worry because the town had some type of defense. However, this defense has been stolen, and it seems that the Necromancer took it. Now all this is bad enough, but our informant told us that this defense can also be used to find the Undersea Passage. This could cause all kinds of trouble, and this is what you must stop. The name of our contact is Ogamon. You can find him in Osto which of course lies on the edge of the Cursed Swamp. He'll be staying in the Ram Shack Boarding House. He can fill you in on all the details you'll need to know."

"Now for the second part of your question, I won't go with you because something even worse has happened in Plateau City. Star Tower was attacked by some kind of fishmen, and Shaffbaffum was kidnapped. Even worse than capturing the First Mage, the fishmen stole the Ring of Water. This could put Plateau City at a serious disadvantage should the war break out." Helo pauses and looks at the dumbfounded looks on the faces of her audience. "I apologize, this isn't exactly common knowledge yet. Try not to spread that stuff around. It's how rumors get started. We'll just leave it with the Red Tigers are going back to Plateau City to see if we can help out."

Just then Onrad's boy rushes back in with an armload of supplies. Onrad pays him, and the boy thanks the warrior profusely.

Helo says, "Well now you've got your supplies. You need to hurry and get out of town. It's a long way to Osto. Now, are there any questions you want to ask me before you go?"

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Wednesday January 7th, 1998 4:30:40 AM
Bad news first- Tony says- Hey Everyone, I'm sorry but I think Talvik will have to go his separate ways... I'm working two jobs, and I hardly have time to get online anymore... I thank you for letting me join the online group, but I can't contribute to the game as I'd like to...It was a great time....I really enjoyed it, and maybe in a while after I get used to the hours, I can start again. But for now, I'll have to say so long for a bit.......... Jerry and JK, don't be too rough on the guys....LOL Have a great one, Tony jk says- we're sorry to see you go Tony, but we understand that real life comes first. hopefully we'll all still be here playing if you can come back. We'll keep sending turns to you for a little while unless you don't want them.

on the lighter side- john says-Wow, great turn. Did you stay up all night doing it? I thought it very nice that you kept everyone in character. I also thought it a good job of turning what may have been a long, drawn out process of "I don't know; what do you want to do?" into a single turn.

d.hill says- JK, I think you are doing an excellent job! Keep on pushing the action.

jk says- thank you- hopefully everyone else liked this turn as well. though Jerry fussed at me because I had all of you eat lunch at the most expensive/fashionable place in town - for free :D - here's a question for all of you -would you prefer to see more of this method of getting right into the adventure or would you like to go through all the little steps or would you like us to vary things from time to time?

on the disgruntled side-

D.Hott says- Here we go again ... I did send a turn yesterday, I received confirmation that it made it, and yet it seems AOL is up to its old tricks again - losing email. I still reiterate my position that AOL is a sorry service. It should be avoided at all costs! JK says- well I looked back through my mail, I did have a message from David. His subject line was different from everyone else's so I didn't read it when I made the turn. I get a lot of e-mail and I'm bad about reading it unless the subject looks important. But just to get your blood boiling, even if you get confirmation that your e-mail was received, you are getting confirmation that it was received at usa.net not confirmation that usa.net forwarded it to aol. Not that I disagree that aol is a sorry service, but I for one have been using it since '92 and don't really want to switch now. Actually I do have a local isp account also, but believe it or not my proxy connection through aol is faster.

news on the website 1) well we think the site looks good, but we need to get some advertising done so people will look at our site. I'm taking care of Yahoo and all the search engines, but that's not enough. Recommend the site to your friends if you think they will enjoy. Get the word out. Also look for related sites and try to get links put up. We will start a links page, and will put up a link to any site that will link to us. Think of this part as a contest. For every link you get to our site, we'll give 1/10 of a level. And to up the ante: Whoever is responsible for the most links at the end of this adventure will get the coolest magic item you have ever seen. So go on. get started 2)also I've created a false domain name that will link to our site. so the url you should give out will be: http://wold.home.ml.org hopefully that will keep the Aolaphobes from not checking out our site. the other address will still work of course

Well that about does it. See you guys tommorrow.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 3 
Thursday January 8th, 1998 4:00:40 AM
Talvik is the first of the companions to head up to the room and pack.

Jus is about to ask Helo if the Red Tigers could give us anything to help combat the undead. Deciding it would be better for the group if we did it on our own, he decides otherwise. Then he silently goes up to get his gear ready.

" I have no questions," Tiburon says to Helo, " I'm going to go get my stuff, I'll meet everyone at the Turtle " . With that said, Tiburon goes to his room, collects his equipment and goes to the stables to saddle his animals.

Gareth picks up a large portion of the rations to carry and says "Let's get our stuff and go. I think we should keep our rooms here as I bet we'll be coming back." And with that is off to the room to get his things.

Onrad says, "I suppose this means losing my beauty sleep tonight. Rats."

Nonam says, "I think you've missed a little more than just tonight," and they both go up to pack.

Kat says, "I'll go up and supervise." She then goes up to the rooms and gathers the few things she has.

Flaust says to Helo once they're alone, "It's a big compliment to have someone running all over the city to track us down. I'll try to bring you back a souvenir -- anything you'd like in particular? Umm...by the way, do you have a physical description of Ogamon?"

Helo says, "Oh you can't miss Ogamon. He's the 6 foot dwarf." She laughs a little at this like it's some kind of joke and refuses to explain any more. Then she gets a little more serious, "I would like a little mud from the Cursed Swamp if you think about it and have time. The healer in our group believes it may have some special healing properties. You might check it out yourself while you're there."

After a few minutes of conversation the rest of the group slowly returns.

Flaust asks the reassembled party, "Have any of y'all ever traveled down in that area before?"

Nonam says, "I've studied it but never been there." Jus says, "I grew up in Culverwood but haven't been all the way over to Osto." Onrad says, "I'm familiar with most of the peninsula on this side of the Condorit River, but I haven't been to Osto or the Cursed Swamp."

The group waits for a few minutes and has one last drink with Happy while they wait for everyone to come down. Finally after what seems way too long everyone is back but Talvik.

The group waits a little longer and finally Tiburon goes up to check on his friend. He comes back down after a brief interval with a frown on his face and a note in his hand which he reads when he returns. "I've been to Osto, and I don't really intend to go back. It's a wretched place. If all of you finally make it there, do me a favor. Stop in the Headsman's Block and tell all those dirty #@$*(*$#'s that Talvik's a hero these days. Sorry to cause trouble. Maybe I'll met you again someday. -Tal

Tiburon pauses for a minute and then says, "I guess he was afraid we'd talk him into coming with us." Kat says, "Surely, Pantheon sends us ill omens this night." Onrad grinds his teeth and makes a grimace.

Solemnly the group heads down toward the turtles while the each ponder the silent disappearance of one who had become a friend.

However the group's spirits lift once they are on the backs of the turtles. Tiburon focuses on keeping his horse calm. While the rest of the group laughs as Onrad has his first encounter with a giant turtle. The turtle seems to dislike Onrad. It's almost as if the creature knows that Onrad didn't ride into the Floating City but was teleported in. At least this is Nonam's theory, but when he asked the ferryman, the old man just gave a little smile and went about his work.

The Three find horses on the shore just as Helo promised. Nonam takes a small grey named Wis. Gareth takes a big charger named Fir. Jus takes a black mare named Lady. With a loud snort, Flaust takes the pony named Stumpy. Onrad takes an average looking, plain ol', brown horse named Chester, and Kat takes a magnificent white stallion named Warlock. Tiburon of course had his own.

The group then heads off in the growing darkness down one of New Elenna's safe roads. After a few uneventful hours of travel (and several yawns from Onrad), the group sets up camp for the night. They awake early the next day, which is the day of the Rabbit, groggy and sorrowful at the prospect of such a long ride. They arrive at the edge of the plateau just before noon.

Overlooking the Northwestern edge of the 1st Plateau, the group sees the Red Hills off in the distance. It's readily apparent where the name came from as the hills have a rich red color from this lofty vantage point. Kat gasps and says, "Oh it's beautiful." She looks around at the group and says, "Thank you for getting me out of the city. I've only been with all of you two and a half days, and already I've experienced such new things." Jus just grins and says, "Wait till you see the forest."

The group gets in line to go down the lift, and after a short wait. They take the lift straight down the sheer side of the plateau. Most of the group safely stands toward the middle, but Kat leans out over the edge gazing at a world she could only imagine a week ago.

After a bit the group finally arrives at the bottom, and they set out toward the Red Hills.

By sunset the group arrives at the hills, and everyone marvels at the picturesque sunset. Then just before it gets completely dark, the group sets up camp and prepares for the night. Flaust prepares a marvelous dinner out of what everyone else considered nothing more than 'iron rations,' and everyone prepares for sleep. At which point Onrad volunteers, "Perhaps we should begin keeping a watch at night since we are no longer on the New Elennian safe road." The group then sets out to decide who will keep watch. They decide on a system to use for the rest of the journey. The first night Jus will take first watch. Onrad 2nd, and Nonam 3d. The second night it will be Kat 1st, Gareth 2nd, and Tiburon 3d. They decide since Flaust is doing the cooking that she won't have to take watch.

The group ends the night in high spirits, and the night passes uneventfully.

The next day, the Day of the Dog, Nonam awakes everyone, and Flaust makes breakfast as the rest break camp. After a few minutes, most of the work is done and the food is ready. Everyone sits down to eat. When at that precise moment, everyone turns to stare at a voice from nearby.

A hill giant, sitting on an outcropping of stone which matches his skin tone almost exactly, says, "Well it seems pretty rude of all of you to sit right there stuffing your faces and fail to offer me breakfast." He pauses for a moment to let everyone digest his presence and then he speaks again, this time much more seriously, "What are you doing here in my home?"

He sits on his perch waiting for an answer.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Thursday January 8th, 1998 4:30:40 AM
jk says if anyone wants to look at the map of where you are and where you've been going check out the website - the specific page is http://members.aol.com/thejericho/travel.html (or go to the homepage and check out Duncan's Travel Agency) It will show a big map of the peninsula. Floating City is in the Orange area in the lower right of the map. Osto and the Cursed Swamp are in the middle toward the top. The other places mentioned are in between.

jk says - man the responses were longer than the turns this round - esp from Jerry and dhott

Dhill says- Keep on handling the turns as you have Turns 1 & 2!

Dhott said a lot about aol but not so bad this time-

jk says -don't worry David I don't care about the aol stuff. Personally I'm glad you complain. It gives me something to talk about down here below the line, and I'm certain I've complained about it more than you over the years especially when they had that trouble where no one could log on. Just don't take my defense personally either. I'm just trying to have a little fun with you. Oh incidentally, aol has officially stated that the rumor about the spying software is false. They aren't even talking about upgrades at the moment. -On a like note: Hey how did everyone like my word "Aolaphobe"? I hope I made it up.

Dhott also said- On a different note: I would also add my kudos to the way the turns are going. I like them very much. If the DM in charge does not receive a turn from someone it would seem fair to me for the DM to use the character to convey information to the group or to perform an action in character to speed things up. The characters have been around long enough for everyone to know what to expect from them. The mundane things like getting supplies and such take time and if we are forced to role-play those it drags things out so an abbreviated approach to those things sure works for me.

jk says- and I think everyone know from all of Jerry's e-mails about the answers to the rest of David's comments/questions.

Jerry says- Jerry says: ...as far as fast vs. slow is concerned. I think a mix is a must. It takes a few turns in a place or with an NPC to establish its/their flavor. If the DM deems it more expedient to skip a certain flavor bit and proceed to the "meat" of a story, then by all means do so.

Just don't forget how much you enjoyed the detail of our entrance into the Floating City or our little sidetrack into the Inn of Worlds. Detail can be interesting too. For instance, none of your characters have been to the Red Hills which is giant and halfling country. Or Culverwood and it's magic properties. Or the mighty rushing Peaseblossom River. Or the diverse peoples of the Windbourne Hills and the many wars always being fought there. All of which will be skipped to get to Osto quickly. No problem, just realize that you're missing things which just can't be covered with narrative from the DM.

jk says- Thems sounds like fightin words. :)

Jerry also says- To everyone: We need all of you to get out there on the web and find role-playing related sites and talk to them about linking with us. Don't arrange anything with any site that you don't find interesting. We don't want to set our standards too low. But when you find an interesting place to link to, contact them and offer a link for a link. 1/10th of a level in xp for every link you establish up to a max of half of a level. The one who arranges the most links beyond the half of a level mark, receives a cool magic item. Email me with any questions you have. We have a cool web site, now we need visitors!

John says- 1/10 for each? We'll have 20th level characters in no time...

JK says - Oops I left out that half a level max thing

John also says- I know Jus' turns have been uncharacteristically short lately, especially considering the reputation the group seems to be giving him. The good news is that I am purchasing the computer this week (finally!) and will be able to write pages and pages of turns at home each night. In the meantime, my turns will be short -- excluding, of course, the liberal embellishments of the DMs.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 4 
Friday January 9th, 1998 4:00:40 AM
Flaust, feeling ‘dwarfed’, remains silent, looking around to see if there are any more surprises waiting in the wings, and wondering how hill giants like their halflings cooked. Tiburon slowly looks around to see if there are any more giants sitting around, but he sees none. He then will smile and watch the others for what they want to do. Gareth tries to speak for the group as it seems to him a delicate situation. He motions silence to the others if he can and then begins: Gareth slowly rises and says "Please, join us if you wish. We were not aware that you were near our camp. I also apologize for our intrusion into your home. We didn’t know this place was occupied. We are travelers and intend to leave immediately after we eat. We’ll not intrude on your hospitality any longer. What’s your name?" The giant says, " My name is Kabal. See how that works. You ask a question and I answer it. If you recall I asked you "What are you doing in my home?" I didn’t ask you to appologize. Nor did I ask of what you were aware or when you would be leaving. Now I must confess that your statement that you were travellers came very near to answering my question, but if you think about it, I’m sure you’ll come to the conclusion that it merely alludes to an answer. So I ask again, "What are you doing in my home?" The group stares in awe at the giant for a moment as no one has ever heard of a giant speaking in such a lofty manner. After a brief instant Kat recovers and says, "My but aren’t you witty for a giant..." The giant interupts and says, "What exactly is that supposed to mean. You think all giants are hopelessly stupid? Well you’re right, but even so I hope you’re planning on answering the question and not trying to sweet talk me into forgetting. If you are, I must warn you that I like my women to be much taller than you." Kat says, "My dear Kabal I assure you that I was going to answer your question. It is as Gareth said we are travellers. To be more specific we are travelling to Osto from the Floating City. We merely made camp here last night. It seemed the perfect spot once we saw the beautiful sunset here." The giant says, "I see, and why did you choose this route." Nonam says, "Our friend Helo said that we should go this way to the River Peaseblossom and then take a boat." The giant looks puzzled. "You’re going to take a boat up the Peaseblossom?" Nonam says, "That is our intent." Kabal: "Little man which way does the Peaseblossom flow?" Nonam: "East" Kabal: "And which way is Osto?" Nonam: "West" Kabal: "Doesn’t that seem a little strange to you? To take a boat up river." Nonam: "I assumed we would row." At this the giant falls down laughing. Finally he gets up, "Little human, you mean to tell me that you could row up the Peaseblossom? No human could do it. Not even one as big as him." With that he points at Gareth. Nonam says, "Well Helo didn’t act like it wouldn’t be a problem." Kabal says, "Well it is." At this instant, Onrad blurts out, "Do you worship a cult god?" Everyone looks at Onrad like he’s mentally unstable, but the giant finally says, "No." Onrad says, "Good. Would you like some breakfast?" Then he notices everyone staring at him. "What?!? It was a joke." He sees the giant becoming angry. "No not the breakfast part. The cult god part. It’s a little joke." The giant says, "I see." Clearly he doesnt’ though. "Well little man, I thank you for the offer, but you don’t have enough to feed me." Then, after shaking off Onrad’s strange comment, the giant says, "I tell you what. I like you little people. So I’ll make you a deal. Clearly you can’t row up the Peaseblossom, but I can. I can make good time too. However, I won’t do it for free. I will require your horses. I guarantee that if you take my offer I can have you through Culverwood in 2 days time, plus the 2 days to reach the river of course. Another 7 or 8 days after that will see you in Osto - if you buy more horses once you get off the river and then take passage down the Condorit River. I should guess that would save you 5 days... at least." Onrad says, "That’s impossible. You cannot get through Culverwood in 2 days. Now I’m not saying that you’re not strong enough to row up the Peaseblossom, but the distance is too far. You just can’t cover it in 2 days." Kabal adamantly states, "I guarantee it." He lets that sink in for a moment. "Well what do you say? Do you wish to take my offer?

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Friday January 9th, 1998 4:30:40 AM
Jerry says: to receive a hero point for an action or bonus experience you must be successful at what you attempted. Jerry says: I nominate Tiburon for his negotiating the witch situation so that both Onrad and Kat could remain with the group. That was unexpected and genius. I nominate him for a hero point because it kept the group intact and extra experience beyond the 200 for the hero point as well Jerry says: I nominate Nonam for cleverly avoiding combat in the Inn of Kings on Trash level. It was well played. Jerry says: I nominate Gareth for fighting the Black Blade Warrior successfully in the Bar Brawl. The roleplaying that went with the fighting there was noteworthy. . JK says, those all sound good to me. take your hero points - and the 200xp that goes with them.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 5 
Saturday January 10th, 1998 4:00:40 AM
Flaust asks Kabal, "Will you be in any danger if you travel with us up the river?"

"No, of course not."

Flaust votes to have the giant provide passage up the Peaseblossom.

Nonam says, "It sounds like a deal to me."

Gareth says "Deal! We'll be glad for you to have the horses in return for your services. It would be very good to have the company of one such as yourself on our trip through your country as well. The only horse we may have an issue with is Tiburon's." He looks at Tiburon and says "How about it?"

Tiburon seems reluctant but agrees.

Kat says: "I for one am fine with giving up my horse although I don't see how you could ride it."

He says, "I don't want to ride it. I want to sell them."

Kat says, "Having seen so little of the world I truly enjoy spending time with a giant of your intellect and size." Kat sits down beside him and begins to divide up he food to offer some breakfast to the giant. "Oh, Mr. Kabal I apologize for the cult god comment, it was not aimed at you it was aimed at me. Some of my new friends feel it is appropriate to use others beliefs as a source of amusement." She says staring daggers at Onrad.

Onrad says, "Uh guys, I've had geography and seen the Peaseblossom River. It flows from the Scab to the East to the plains in the west. However, travel down that river is very rough at the least. I suggest we take the northern route and cross the river, skirt the forest with Jus' help, and travel through the Windbourne hills.

Kabal says, "I believe you are wrong good sir."

Nonam says, "Why do you always have to be the naysayer in the group? Can't you get along with anyone we meet?"

Onrad says, "But he's wrong. It flows the other way."

Kabal says, "Well if it goes the other way, I can get you down it even quicker can't I?"

Onrad: "No. It's not possible"

Kabal: "What is the highest point on the Elennan peninsula?"

Onrad: "Shadow Mountain."

Kabal: "Then the river must flow away from it."

Onrad: "But it doesn't. I'VE SEEN IT!!"

Kabal: "Well if it doesn't then why doesn't it?"

Onrad: "How should I know?"

Nonam volunteers, "Magic?"

Kabal: "It must be. Now I don't have time to debate magic vs. reality with you, but I assure you that it flows the way I say it does. You just fail to realize it."

Onrad: "Are you insane? Are you saying the river is an illusion?"

Kabal: "No and no. I'm merely saying that I understand the true nature of the river, and you don't."

Onrad: "This is crazy. I've seen it. All of you, I've seen it. Don't listen to him."

Kabal: "You still have my guarantee.

Onrad continues to convince the group, but the rest of the group votes to go with the giant.

Kabal leads the group through the hills. He truly seems to know every little thing about it. Tiburon goes so far as to remark that they couldn't have hired a better guide. By the end of the 2nd day of traveling through the hills, the group arrives at the river.

It's the widest river anyone in the group has ever seen. It's also one of the most rapidly flowing rivers anyone has seen. It also flows toward Shadow Mountain as Onrad pointed out.

Onrad says, "See. Look. He's wrong now let's find a way across and then go the rest of the way by land. The water goes too fast we'll never navigate it."

However no one listens to him because they've all been convinced that the giant can deliver what he promises.

The group sets up camp by the banks of the raging Peaseblossom and waits till tomorrow. Kabal promises they will leave at first light. Onrad sulks off to sleep and mutters, "He doesn't even have a boat."

The next day the group wakes up eager to be underway. However, there doesn't seem to be a boat or a landing or anything that one might expect. Finally Nonam asks, "Where's the boat?"

Kabal says, "Are you sure you accept my agreement?"

Everyone agrees though Onrad would obviously rather not.

So Kabal takes the horses. Then he takes out a small bag. He pulls several ribbons out of the bag. Then he ties a ribbon around each horses neck. As soon as he does so, the horses shrink small enough that they can fit in the palm of a hand. Kabal puts them all in the bag and tucks it away. Then Kabal reaches into another pocket and takes out another bag. He pulls a miniature boat out of this one. He takes it and sets in near the river and then says, "row." The boat grows until it is big enough for everyone to fit inside. It looks like a giant canoe.

Onrad glares at Kabal, "Why didn't you just say you had a magic boat?"

Kabal looks back and says, "Didn't I? Oh I'm sorry."

The group gets in the boat, and Kabal rows out into the river. What happens next is a strange sight. The water seems to flow the other direction. Onrad looks down and says, "I don't understand."

Kabal says, "To tell you the truth neither do I, but that's the way it works. The magic of the boat gives it a great speed, but it forces you to row against the current even if you're going with it. At least that's what I speculate. Sorry, if I've been a nuisance to you, but I've rather enjoyed the debate."

The boat whips down the river at what seems a reckless speed, but Kabal seems to always be in control. He's obviously made this journey many times before.

Right away the group begins to get into Culverwood. The wood is a deep green, and everyone sees all sorts of animals. However, they whip by so fast, it's hard to really tell what there is to see. At the end of a long day, the group gets out and makes camp only to wake early and travel down the river again on the following day. And just before sunset the group shoots out of Culverwood, and Kabal pulls the canoe on shore saying, "I believe our agreement is concluded."

The group onloads and camps by the river. The next morning Kabal gets back in his canoe and heads back up the river. The group walks to a nearby town where they purchase horses, and they head north toward Osto.

The trip is fairly uneventful from this point on, and the group arrives in Osto according to the schedule Kabal gave over a week earlier.

Osto is a dark looking city. The streets are narrow. Frequently they aren't even as wide as the alleys were in Floating City. Everyone in the city looks like they're poor and dirty, and to the discerning eyes of the Three, most people in the town seem to carry some sort of weapon...even the children.

Nonam says, "Gee what a fine town. Well we're here. What should we do?"

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Saturday January 10th, 1998 4:30:40 AM
Keith will run the next turn. Be sure to send mail to the Woldian address.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 6 
Monday January 12th, 1998 6:22:40 PM
"Well, I say we go to a Tavern and see if we can find this Ogamon that Helo told us about " , says Onrad, with a wry grin he adds, " But I think we all better watch our purse, or it will end up missing. "

Nonam , with his hair slowly changing from brown to blond, replies " That seems to be a good idea. Anyone see a Tavern ?"

" I think I see one down here ." says both Gareth and Tiburon, unfortunately they are pointing in different directions.

" Well," Jus says with a small chuckle," Let's chose one and go "

The group looks at each other and then Gareth says," Well we don't have all day, let's go to this one and if he's not there we can go somewhere else ".

Everyone starts moving to the nearest Tavern they see. All around them are the bleak structures that the people here call homes. Even though it's daytime, all the town seems to be cast into shadows, the doorways are dark and forbidding and the alleyways the group crosses have a Stygian gloom to them. Dark, impenetrable shadows cloak them to the point that they seem to have a life of their own.

" I have a very bad feeling about this place ", says Tiburon. " Has anyone seen a smile on anybody's face ? It's almost as if the people are just waiting to die."

Children wrapped in rags sit unmoving on the steps of houses watching the Group walk past. Some snarl like feral dogs while others just sit lethargically and watch the world.

"Well we're here now ," says Kat, " Let's go inside and see what surprises await us here."

The Tavern the group enters is named 'The Tavern of the Battering Rams' and has a sign out front showing a massive Ram charging a battering ram as the crew scatters. The inside is dark and smoky with several tables around the room. As they enter, Gareth looks to his right and sees the biggest man he's ever seen in his life. The man is at least 8 feet tall, with a massive chest , arms, and legs to match. From his waist hangs what looks to everyone to be a clob shod in brass. He doesn't seem to be wearing armor , just a loin-cloth wrapped his waist and sandals strapped up his calves.

" Welcome to my tavern !" sounds from the Bar. " I see you have found Nanoc our bouncer. Ever since he started working, the fights have ended here. My name is Seltic, how my I be of service ?" The Publican is a large man, not in height but in sheer size. Everything about him seems large, his eyes seem as large as cups, his nose looks as if you could hang a flag from it , and his ears look like small sails.

" Umm..well we're looking for someone," Nonam says ," His name is Ogamon and he is supposed to be a..well, a 6 foot Dwarf ."

" Ogamon," Seltic says with a smile, " I know him well ! He comes here every day and we share a pint of ale...You aren't here to help us , are you ?" Seltic leans forward as he says this.

Onrad says, " Yes we're to help rid your town of those foul Undead that are plaguing you !"

Nonam gives Onrad a sidelong glance and says " As my companion said, We're here to give what aid we can to set things right in the town." Nonam's hair changes to a dark red color .

As the others look around they notice that some of the patrons have stopped talking and are looking at the group. A few look happy , some just look curious, and one or two look edgy.

"Well, why don't you have a seat and wait for Ogmon here , I'll give you a round on the house while you wait. Do you need rooms while you are here ? " asks Seltic.

Nonam says with a smile, " Thank you and yes some rooms would be nice. As you can see we have some young ladies with us, " raising his voice slightly so everyone can hear," They are Very powerful and would like an ajoining room with the others. I would hate to get them mad, you know."

" Oh most certainly, " says Seltic. He turns to a swinging door behind him, leans in and says something to someone back there. A young girl of ten or so hurries out and up the stairs." Kara , my daughter, will get the rooms ready. Please have a seat."

Everyone sits and enjoys their drink as they wait. After about 30 min. , the door opens and in walks a tall Dwarf.

" That must be Ogamon, " says Flaust. " Shall we go to him or wait until Seltic sends him over ?"

" Seltic, My usual ! " ,booms the Dwarf. " It's been a miserable day ! "

" Ogamon," says Seltic as he reaches for a mug and fills it. " I've got a surprise for you ! The help you sent for has arrived !! " Seltic points to the table where everyone is setting with the mug before he hands it to Ogamon.

" What !! " ,booms Ogamon as he grabs the mug and swings around to look at you. " You must be powerful undead to have gotten here so soon . " Ogamon comes over to the table and pulls up a chair.

" I'm Ogamon a cleric of Wardd trying to change the luck in this town. As you see, I haven't been too successful yet." Ogamons' voice seems loud enough to break glass but he doesn't seem to be shouting.

Everyone introduces themselves around the table.

" OK, let me tell you what the problem is. " Ogamon says after a drink. " A few months ago, a strange pale looking fellow came into town and went to see the Mayor. He told the Mayor that this was his town now and everyone would submit to him or his army would raze the town. The Mayor looked at him as if he was crazy, there hadn't been any rumors of troops in the area so the Mayor orders the guards to arrest the man and throw him into a cell. The man , who calls himself Som the Dead by the way, said that the Mayor had just made a fatal error for himself and the town. When the relief arrived at the cell the next dday, they found the two guards dead and the cell door open. Both guards were discolored a purplish-black color and looked to have been in great agony when they died, their hands were curled up into claws and their faces were contorted in pain. A drunk said that he was passing by the night before and saw a green light in the window but it stopped before he thought to go see what it was. Since then we have had random attacks by Skeletons, zombies and Ghouls. The attackers all seem to come from the swamp so we think that Som the Dead is out there. We used to have four stones that , when used by a Priest of Alemi, Wardd, Domi, and Gargul, placed a sort of shield over the town that kept undead away. These were found to have been stolen when we went to activate them. We need your help to find them and rid us of Som the Dead. Are you going to help us ? "

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Monday January 12th, 1998 6:52:40 PM
Keith- I hope you liked this , I thought you would like to know something about what you are going up against and give you a taste of the city. Good Luck and let the turns begin !! :^)


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 7 
Tuesday January 13th, 1998 4:34:40 PM
Onrad says, "Wow, I turn around and we're in an inn, have met our contact and know our enemy before I can open my mouth. Before we go any farther though I need to discuss something privately with our group. If you would excuse us for a minute."

" By all means, " says Ogaman, " I'll be by the bar when you make your decision . Thank the Luck of Wardd that you found me so soon. "

With that, Ogamon rises and walks to the bar and begins to talk with Seltic.

Onrad says, "I feel the need to clear the air." He pauses thinking.

Onrad continues, "I don't mean to be always fussing about stuff. With the cult god issue, well, that's just something I grew up with. It is a core belief of mine and it will not change. As far as my statements about the river were concerned, well I just knew better and without the bizarre magic of that very unusual giant, I was correct."

Onrad continues, "I'm not apologizing for my beliefs or actions, except for the way that they are being perceived. I may be mistaken, but I thought that part of what we were about was trust. How is it that ALL of you twice now, have chosen to trust a stranger rather than me. These actions DO bother me!"

Onrad pauses again.

Onrad then turns to the original three, "Gentlemen, I don't want to cause any dissension here, but make a decision. Either respect my opinions, or release me from my oath. I'm not saying to always agree with them or to always do what I suggest, but at least give them due respect."

Flaust pulls Onrad aside and say, "We need to verify that this guy is Ogamon. After y'all had gone upstairs back at Happy's establishment, Helo told me where Ogamon was staying. I am going to step outside, to avoid ESP. Ask this person which inn he is staying at, and then come verify it with me."

Flaust will wait outside for the correct answer.

Onrad and Jus rise and walk over to Ogamon. " Sir , Helo mentioned that you would prove your identity by telling us where you are staying. Could you do that for me ? "

" That's an odd request but I'll be glad to. I stay at the Ram Shack, a boarding house over by my Temple. " says Ogamon.

" Thank you , " says Onrad , " I think we have reached our decision. Will you return with us to our table ? "

Tiburon looks at Onrad who responds with a small nod. He rises and walks to the door, opens it and tells Flaust that as far as they can tell, it really is Ogamon.

Flaust renters the Tavern and returns to the table.

Gareth says between drinks "Yes we will help. Helo of the Red Tigers sends her greetings - by the way. Do you have any plans currently? Any ideas on the whereabouts of the stones of which you speak?"

Flaust asks Ogamon, "Are there any graveyards located near the swamp that Som could be obtaining bodies from?"

"Well," replies Ogamon, " Adventurers are always going into the swamp looking for the Undersea Passage that is rumored to be there or just looking for ruins and treasure. Some return with great wealth and others are never seen again. Until now it seems. " Turning to Gareth he says " I only have plans to continue with the defense of the city for now, It seems that a townsman creeped into the temple and stole the Stones. I can only guess that Som has them in the swamp. "

Flaust says to the party, "I'd really like to wait until tomorrow, so I can have more appropriate spells for this situation."

Tiburon says , " I agree with Flaust that we should wait to the morrow. I too, need to rememorize some different spells. "

Nonam sits back and waits for the others to respond. He intends to help (after all he hasn't come all this way to do nothing), but he'll let the others speak. However, if Onrad causes trouble, he'll speak up.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Tuesday January 13th, 1998 5:04:40 PM
Jerry says: FYI, the Peaseblossom River flows out of the Scab Mountains and through the Culverwood Forest where is it embued with the magical properties of that forest. I just realized that there is no legend about Culverwood Forest. I'll add that to my list of things to do....:( The Tour of the Wold, however, describes the Forest as "the single most dangerous location on the peninsula......"

Jerry continues: Later it says that, "This wood tends to capture travelers by magically altering the landscape to appear that it goes on forever. The unwary traveler will usually disappear never to be seen again (or see again) for that matter."

Jerry continues: Later in the same paragraph it says, "The Scab to the Northeast of Culverwood has the same properties. Some say these mountains were placed there by The Gods of Wold to prevent travel to The Cataclysm Lands on the other side. The Peaseblossom River originates here flowing on through Culverwood and beyond."

Jerry continues: These articles are available for all of you to read and you SHOULD do so. It is basically assumed that what you know, your character may know, if you so wish it, when it comes to the general knowledge of the Elennian peninsula.

Jerry says: I do wish it known, just in case JK did such a great job that no one noticed, that the only line I wrote during the last turn was the first one. All of the other statements were added by JK, which is fine, but I don't want Onrad to be known as a complainer or a "hard-ass" (excuse the language, but in this case it seemed to be the best term to express myself). What I was going for was for Onrad to be known as a character of strong beliefs. I sort of feel like Onrad has been role-played by "outside forces" and circumstances into a corner and so that's the reason for playing him as I have. I'm not mad, although I do feel that circumstances have sent Onrad down a path that I did not choose. So be it.

Jerry says: Everyone please add my school email address to your macros and feel free to send mail there if you also send it to my house.

Also add Anthony Damron, one or our local game players and DM's who is now playing Kat. His only email address is at school.

Here is my address macro for everyone. Notice that it includes Scott Marley, a former local game player in excellent standing, who enjoys getting the turns. FYI, he is responsible for the current map of Izen, now renamed by him to be the badlands. He also created the concept of the Dark Lord and Parnoth and the Emerald Kingdom...(legends for the site and folder forthcoming.)


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 8 
Wednesday January 14th, 1998 3:57:40 PM
Onrad, wondering why everyone was so friendly and kept asking him trivial things and not answering his ultimatum, takes a seat in the back of the bar waiting for The Three to make up their minds about him.

Nonam says, "Well Onrad, I release you from you oath if that's what you want. Though it seems to me that even if released from your oath the oath is still binding. That's what oaths are all about right?"

Gareth waits to hear Ogamon's feedback and says "Let's get a good nights sleep and get an early start. Or do you need our help tonight?"

" I will send someone for you if the need arises, but you should get a good nights sleep to begin your journey with " , answers Ogamon.

Nonam asks Ogamon, "Will you be going with us to look for the stones? Also I was wondering, you said we need priests of Alemi, Domi, Wardd, and Gargul to work the stones. You're a priest of Wardd, and we've a priest of Alemi and one of Domi in the group. Do you know a trustworthy priest of Gargul that will help us once we find the stones?"

" I , unluckly, must stay in town to help with the defenses. " says Ogamon. " I will wish you Wardd's Luck when you go, I know that will help . We do have a Priest of Gargul in town, he's an unsavory sort of fellow you know. I'm sure that he will help whenever the time comes, after all, Isn't that part of what he does ? " With that Ogamon smiles and takes a sip of his drink .

"Well, I'm off to bed and prayer. " says Tiburon as he stands. " I'll meet everyone here for breakfast tomorrow morning. " That said, Tiburon takes his gear and follows the Publicans daughter upstairs to the room.

The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 9 
Thursday January 15th, 1998 3:57:40 PM
Flaust asks Ogamon, "Have you had any difficulty in turning any of Som's undead encountered thus far?"

Ogamon watches Tiburon walk upstairs then turns to Flaust, " Now that you say that, It does seem harder to turn them sometimes. I guess I hadn't noticed before, I was usually pretty busy during those times." he says with a smile. " I am going to leave you for the evening. I'll be back tomorrow before first light to see you off. Good Evening ." Ogamon stands and bows to all then leaves the Tavern.

Kat screams at the group. "WAIT A MINUTE!!!!!" It seems to me that one of your members is not very happy right now and you guys continue to keep pushing forward like nothing was wrong! Now I like all of you a lot, in fact some of you are very cute, (she says looking around at the group) but I do happen to have some strange beliefs and if that is going to get in the way of the friendship that has already been forged then I will sadly have to leave you all here. I could never live with myself if I were part of the cause of this good mans pain."

She says pointing at Onrad.

Gareth says good night to Ogamon and then walks over to Onrad making sure they're alone. He says "You seem to know a lot about the continent and other things. I'm sorry to have ignored your question earlier, it just wasn't a good time to deal with it since we were trying to size up this Ogamon fellow.

To answer you directly, I want you to stay. I do trust you. We haven't known each other a long time so I imagine it will take time to get used to everyone - not just you. Also, I didn't ignore you when dealing with the giant. I listened to what you had to say and decided that having a giant to take us through hostile territory that most of us knew nothing about was worth the risk of a confrontation. I was also afraid of what might happen if we turned him down. Since the horses were free to us to begin with I figured it to be a good trade - even if the river information he gave was wrong. We could have always turned him down AFTER he got us safely to the river.

I'm not used to having to explain myself to make sure nobody feels like they were ignored. I'll try to do better. In return I wonder if I might ask you a favor? Don't mention cult gods when we're in the middle of negotiations within earshot of the other parties. It seems to have a very negative effect. It would also be a good idea not to badger other members of your own party with it either. Kat may not say anything but if your goal is to convert her you shouldn't make her mad. If there is any potential foothold for evil in her it will sure get stronger if she's angry at you. If we were in combat and she was angry she could really become a liability if she lost control - oath or not. I've never been too religious all my life and so my feelings are probably not as strong as yours. But do your best."

The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 10 
Friday January 16th, 1998 4:15:40 PM
Nonam frowns and wonders why everyone is suddenly apologizing to Onrad. After all, who has been the disagreeable one.

Onrad gives Nonam a scowl and turns to Gareth. "Thanks my friend. I just needed to hear that. I apologize. I guess growing up the youngest and smallest of 5 brothers I was ignored alot as a child and being "actually" listened to and respected for what I say is important to me. I'll attempt to be more mature in this area."

To Kat he says, "I also apologize to you Kat. You are treating me much better than I can find it in my heart to treat you. I'll attempt to learn to separate the person from his God. I fear it will be a hard thing to do however."

Gareth waits for a response. After that he says "Good night." and goes to bed. The next morning ,he gets up early, gets ready, and goes downstairs to eat breakfast and wait for Ogamon and the rest of the party.

Tiburon comes downstairs yawning, " Seltic, can I get some breakfast ? " He goes to the table Gareth is sitting at and takes a chair.

After any spells are gained, Flaust meets with the group the next morning.

Flaust says to the group, "Whether or not a member of the group may be released from the oath is something best left to Alemi. I suspect, however, that any person currently or in the future a part of this group will be forever bound. Otherwise, the spirit of granting safety to Kat is compromised. If you want, we may consult Alemi."

Flaust pulls Nonan aside and says, "Through Alemi's goodwill, I was able to consider something that may be useful. Whoever stole the stones had to have had access to the Temple at any time. The person would also have had to know that they wouldn't be missed until they were needed. The only person I know there is Ogamon...perhaps we should start our investigation there, but keep this thought under wraps? What would this person gain by doing such a thing? Person this person was under the influence of magic? Or perhaps shape- shifting was involved?"

Tiburon says between mouthfuls, " But Flaust, Ogamon never said the Stones were at HIS temple, did he ? I think we should find out where they were to begin with and that you are right about starting there."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Friday January 16th, 1998 4:45:40 PM
No turn from Anthony or John today.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 11 
Monday January 19th, 1998 3:44:40 PM
Nonam sits down to breakfast and says, "Onrad, I've never been good at listening to anyone besides myself. That's why I got kicked out of the mage's academy. I'll try to do better."

Jus comes skipping down the steps, vaults over the railing, and loudly proclaims, "Never fear, when The Three are here!" In a much quieter voice he says, "Hi people, how's it goin'?"

Jus tells everyone, "I'm really itching to kill some stinkin' UNDEAD (ptooey). All UNDEAD (ptooey) and like dark-dwellers (ptooey) deserve the fate we will give them," giving an elaborate show of spitting every time he says undead or dark-dwellers (and winking at Onrad at the end).

Gareth says "Seltic, what temple were the stones in before they were stolen?"

Seltic answers from behind the bar " I think Ogamon was saying something about the Temple of Gargul but I don't remember."

Gareth says "Thanks."

He turn to the group and quietly says "I think we should wait for Ogamon and ask him where he thinks we should start. If he says something other since Helo spoke well of him."

Kat says "If the group is past this crisis I would like to do some research in the town about the stones. If I understand them a bit more maybe I can track them or understand how Som plans to use them. "

Kat asks "Does anyone wish to go with me?"

Ogamon enters the room and looks around. Spotting the group sitting at the table, he walks over and in his loud voice says, " Good to see everyone this morning ! I hope everyone got a good nights rest ? Are you ready to begin ? "

Flaust asks, "May we see where the stones were located, before they disappeared?"

Ogamon looks at her and says ," Why sure, they were last seen at the Temple of Gargul. But when we went to use them, Scarrf , the Priest there , found that they were gone. "

Flaust asks, "Who had ready access to the stones? How were these stones regularly utilized?"

Ogamon says, " You'll have to ask Scarrf. I don't have much to do with him. " With that said , Ogamon sits down and orders breakfast.

Onrad says, "Well, let's be off. But where to? Ogaman's temple?"

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Monday January 19th, 1998 4:14:40 PM
John-I sent to both the Woldian address and to Keith directly to see if either get through this time. Jerry and JK, did neither of you receive my query on whether you have been getting my turns over the past few days? I didn't hear from either of you in reply

Jerry says: John and Anthony, I suggest that both of you send in your turns not only to the Woldian site, but also directly to the DM. This way we can keep tabs on the Woldian site and how it is forwarding and you can be assured of getting your turn in on time. We'll be keeping you posted as to how things are working.


The Necromancer's Stones: Jericho Comments 
Tuesday January 20th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Introduction From the Jericho: The highlight of this set of turns is the character conflict between Nonam and Onrad, i.e. JK and Jerry, the two DM's, go at it character to character. Yeah, we both probably took it a bit too far....oh well.

The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 12 
Tuesday January 20th, 1998 4:30:40 PM
Onrad says, "Kat, I do suggest that we all stay together in this strange town. Why don't we check out the original location of the stones at Gargul's temple and then if we find no leads from there try the library. "

Nonam says, "I vote that we go talk to this Scarrf."

Gareth says to Kat "I'll go with you. I think we should go see Scarrf."

Flaust agrees to go with Kat to research the stones. She suggests that they check out the temple of Gargul first.

Tiburon agrees with everyone else about seeing Scarrf.

Everyone finishes breakfast while carrying on small talk and some ideas on how to fight the undead. After the meal, Tiburon asks Ogamon for directions to the Temple of Gargul.

"The Temple is that gloomy place at the end of Glory Street. Go left out the door, cross the courtyard a few blocks down and turn right on Glory Street. You can't miss it. I've got a few things I need to do, so I'll bid you Good Day." With that said, Ogamon stands and leaves the Tavern.

"Well, shall we go ?" asks Tiburon.

Everyone rises from the table and bids Seltic a good day. They leave the Tavern and turn left. As they approach the courtyard Ogamon mentioned, they see that a small caravan has just arrived and the Merchants are talking to the people in the crowd.

" Hey, Let's see what the Merchants' have to say." says Onrad.

The party stops for a moment to listen , over the grumbling of Nonam, and hears one fellow tell another " The Drow have come into possession of one of five artifact rings currently being contested for in The Wold. With this ring of air they have learned to use their Underdark abilities in the open sunlight and the elves of Culverwood are preparing for war. "

Another person is telling his wife " Honey, did you hear the news ? The merchants says that Parnoth, Dragon Emperor of the Emerald Kingdom in the northern part of the Badlands had recently sold the Ring emulating earth for a reputed 1,000,000 gold pieces to a secret buyer. Parnoth hopes that not having the ring any longer will cause any invading forces to go after the ring instead of him and his blessed kingdom. "

His wife gets a pained expression and says ," Rolf, you'd believe anything anyone told you. Why don't you go back to work and do something constructive , for a change."

" Come on guys, " Nonam says " We're supposed to be finding those Stones not listening to rumors. "

" You're right," agrees Tiburon, " but it's nice to hear some news from around the Wold. Let's go see Scarrf." With that the group resumes their journey.

It turns out to be as easy as Ogamon said to find the Temple of Gargul. The street seems to become even gloomier than before as the group approaches . At the end of Glory Street is a medium sized building with several icons and statues depicting Gargul at his best( worst ?) . The building seems to be in the same run-down shape that dominates this town, shutters not fitting the windows or torn off their hinges. Paint peeling from the walls give more signs that this Temple is not the most popular one in town.

The group enters as Onrad looks around and takes one last deep breath before entering the temple with a look of trepidation on his face and stops the first acolyte they see and ask to see Scarrf. The young boy looks startled for a moment , says to wait right here while he gets him and scurries off into the rear of the Temple.

Flaust studies all possible exits, and notes all staff members working in the temple.

A few moments later, a tall, thin looking man in robes approaches, " I am Scarrf, the Priest in charge of this Temple. What can I do for you ?"

Tiburon says " We have come to try and find the stolen Stones. Can you help us with this ?"

Flaust asks, "Who had ready access to the stones? How were these stones regularly utilized?"

Onrad sizes up the honor of the priest and says, "So tell us the legend of these missing stones, how they were used, and your suspicions."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Tuesday January 20th, 1998 5:00:40 PM
Keith says: No turn from John today.

Jerry says: I haven't heard back from John concerning the Woldian site and why it's not working right. John? Are you out there?

Jerry says: If ya want, I'll send a couple of these rumors every few days or so just to further give the online players a sense of The Wold around them.

I thought of posting like rumors on the website only available to those who look there regularly. Keep them coming back for more ya know.

Let me know what you think of these new tactics.

Jerry


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 13 
Wednesday January 21st, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Scarrf looks confused at all the sudden questions and looking back and forth says " What...what...what..."

Kat sensing that the man has been bombarded with questions, bats large brown eyes, takes the priest by the arm, sits him down, and says "Hello, my name is Kat and my friends and I are trying to help your poor town, so if you wouldn't mind telling us everything you know about the stones i will be happy enough to sit here and listen to your every word."

Nonam waits to hear what Scarff says

Jus is silently fuming over the news of the Drow. Hoping they soon find their deserved justice in a shallow grave.

" The Stones ?," says a bewildered Scarrf, " The stolen ones ?? Oh , well why didn't you say that in the first place ! You come barging in here scaring my acolytes half to death, shooting questions everywhere like crossbow bolts and.."

" Good Sir, " Kat says while once again batting her eyes at him, " We're here to help you recover them and end this threat to Osto. Could you help us help you ? "

" Errr..Ummm ," Scarrf stammers as he tries to regain his balance." Um..Yes ..the Stones you say ? Well legend has it that there was once a great sorcerer-king that was raising a vast hoard of undead to use as an army. You don't have to feed them or worry about their wounds, you know...Oh .. well the sorcerer-king marched his undead army to almost this very spot and was defeated in battle in what is now the swamp. The legend says that a young priest of Gargul , we do have our uses you know, asked for help from above to defeat that perverted army and send the creatures to rest with Gargul. He received a vision that evening and with the help of some priests from other faiths , he being the only one of his God, used 4 glowing stones to decimate the undead. Nobody knew where the Stones came from , but it was decided to keep them in here against the day when someone else started to raise an unholy army. At least, that's what the legend says."

" And when the undead started to attack the city ," asks Tiburon, " what did you do ?"

"Well , at first we didn't think much of it." Scarrf says turning to look at Tiburon." But after the fourth or fifth attack, the Mayor came to ask if we could use the Stones. That's when we found that they were gone. Several of the Priest have perished trying to defeat the undead, and now it wouldn't matter if we had the Stones or not. We don't have any Priest of Domi or Alemi to invoke them. "

Tiburon says " But you do, I'm a Brother of Domi and my companion Flaust is a Priest of Alemi. We'll help if you if we can find the Stones."

Flaust says " Who had access to the Stones ? "

Scarrf turns to her and replies ," Hardly anyone knew about them, just myself, Turrun my second in command ,and a few acolytes. Oh yes.. maybe Thrasher knew where they were. He does , or did , the cleaning around here . He says he won't come back until the undead are all gone. He stays in his house most of the day and only comes out to get food. "

Jus quietly watches Scarrf and his reactions, as Jus' suspicions of the local priests increase.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Wednesday January 21st, 1998 4:30:40 PM
JK says the Woldian address is working okay. At least I'm getting everyone's mail. After checking the times of mail, I'd guess that it takes about 5 to 6 hours to forward the mail through usa.net. Since John's mail comes slow sometimes anyway, that just makes it take a little longer. Also sometimes the WFISD system holds mail for a while - I noticed this with mail from my mother some time ago - so add however long that system keeps the mail to the 6 hours for the other, and it can easily take 8 hours for the mail to come from those school addresses - which can easily be after Keith has done his turn for the day. Bottom line is it works, but it works slow.

John-Monday (our Tuesday) was a holiday here. Since I don't have a home computer yet, I did not have access to my work computer and - hence - did not respond to the last turn.

No turn from Jerry or David


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 14 
Thursday January 22nd, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Gareth takes note of the entire temple noticing doors, alcoves and people movements and counts the number of priests, acolytes, etc. as best he can. He looks at major areas such as altars and observes them closely.

Nonam looks at Scarff and says, "Basically what you've said is that these stones are holy artifacts provided by your god in a time of past need and destined to help avert a future crisis which seems to be here upon us... and you lost them. Doesn't that seem a trifle negligent. I hope Gargul is forgiving."

"Um...well I wouldn't put quite that way, " stammers Scarrf. He stands there rubbing his toe on the floor like a schoolboy caught doing mischief, " Someone took them, you can't blame ME for that ! Besides I was busy with other things. Haven't you heard the Mages Guild of Plateau City had the Ring of Water Artifact, but a few days ago, it and the lead Archmage, Shafbaffum, was stolen/kidnapped by a combined force of undead and Sahuagin, the Devilmen from the sea. I've been ...ummm... devising plans for defense of the town, yeah that's it. I've had a lot on my mind lately. "

Nonam laughs, turns and says to his companions, "Well who should we check with? Turrun, the acolytes, or this Thrasher character?"

Jus suggests to the others that we should have a talk with Turrun and the acolytes.

"Good Scarrf," Jus asks, "would you mind showing us where the stones were kept, and the safeguards one had to overcome to purloin them?"

Onrad says, "Is Turrun available to speak with. We should interview him while we are here. Then perhaps find this Thrasher fellow. Can you tell us where he lives?

"I'll get Turrun for you and have an acolyte show you the storeroom..er I mean the Showing room where we kept the Stones. " says Scarrf.

Flaust asks Scarff, "Please tell us more about Thrasher: What his duties were, his length of employment, and where his home is located. Also, could you give us details about the encounters that occurred between priests and undead recently, such as what type of undead were seen, and how the priests were defeated?"

"Thrasher ? Oh he's just the janitor here, always cleaning and mopping the floors, dusting the place. He's nothing, a real nobody. He came here a few months ago looking for a job and we hired him to do the things the acolytes didn't like to do. I think he lives over in the Beggars Quarter, but why would I know or care ? I have more important things to do. Um, now I haven't seen any of the encounters, I was helping with the...wounded. All I've heard was that the undead fight like someone was directing them, but that's silly. Who would want undead for soldiers ? They're unnatural and should be destroyed, let the dead go to my Lord, that's what I say. "

Kat says "I would like to see the place where the stones were kept if I may" she flutters her eyes at the priest" and if you wouldn't mind allowing me to cast a spell in that place, please."

" No spell ! That's out of the question .." starts Scarrf, but Kat with her sad look and batting her eyes at him seem to confuse him. " Well... I guess one little spell won't hurt , do you think? Just don't let anyone else see you when you do it. "

" I'll go get Turrun now, " says Scarrf as he hastily backs away from Kat . He waves over an acolyte and directs him to take you to the Stone Room ( he says for accent ) then leaves.

The confused acolyte shows the group to a small room in the back left of the Temple.

Along the way you hear acolytes talking about several different things." Did you hear The Dark Lord in his impenetrable tower continues to wield the Ring of Fire Artifact and use it openly. He also seems to be wielding great control over the demihumans of the area mutating them into vastly stronger and smarter versions of their former selves and then sacrificing them to make them even stronger undead." says one to another as you pass.

" I heard from the Merchants that the Dark Lord feeds off of the life forces of those he sacrifices. He also has filled the Badlands with The Mists of Ravenloft which, if they envelop a victim, transports the person to that Demiplane of Dread." is overheard from another small group along the way.

" Hey, Wert. Some of the people are saying that The Mists seem to be attracted to powerful magic. The mists where they have appeared in the past have always been docile waiting for victims to pass through their location. Now they seem to be more aggressive. " says an acolyte to another.

" Here, stupid, listen this time. The four rings are Fire, possessed by the Dark Lord; Earth, sold by Parnoth the Green Dragon to an unknown source; Air, owned by the Drow; and Water, currently possessed by the Sahuagin. If you don't get this right, Master Rukk will skin you alive! " comes from an open doorway.

The room , when you arrive, still has some dust on the floor and walls and the door squeaks when opened. Sitting in the middle of the room is a small dais about six inches tall with four short pillars , each about five feet tall , forming a square around it. When Jus looks at the top of the pillars , he sees a dust-free square in the middle of each about three inches on a side. The pillars have the holy symbols of different Deities carved into the top while the dais has all four carved into it.

After a few minutes , Scarrf returns leading a middle-aged man. This individual stands about 5'7" but must weigh 250 lbs. He waddles more than walks and is covered in a sheen that looks like sweet. His thinning hair is a mousy brown ,is mostly around his head not on it , and glistens with an oily shine . The smell of grease fills the room when he enters and you can all tell that he never meet a meal he didn't like.

" This is Turrun, I'm sure he'll answer all your questions to the best of his ability." says Scarrf. With that he turns to go.

Nonam turns his attention to Scarff and asks, "Oh one other thing. Do you know anything about this necromancer out in the swamp?"

Scarrf seems to stiffen with that and turns to Nonam. " I heard a rumor that someone was out there. Is it true ? What are you going to do about Som anyway ? "

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Thursday January 22nd, 1998 4:30:40 PM
Jerry says: John, go ahead and begin forwarding the turns to your addresses so that you can start getting used to what they look like and how Keith/JK are handling what they get. It's more subtle than it seems once you try it.

David says: I'll send the turn both places to make sure they get there. I'm surprised you didn't get my turn as you replied to my other mail (or was that the day before ...)

John says> FYI: When I get a computer, I'll be able to read mail in the evening when the turn usually arrives. This will allow my response to be much sooner in your eyes. As it is now, the turn usually arrives around 4-5pm my time (9-10pm yours). I don't have a chance to read or respond until 8-9am the next morning (2-3pm yours).


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 15 
Friday January 23rd, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Immediately, Jus asks everyone to not move or touch anything. He then looks at and around the pillars to see if there are hand or foot prints in the dust, strands of hair, mud, and the like (trying to use his tracking abilities to judge the size and shape of the perpetrators). Since there appears to be unlimited access to the room, he does not expect to see anything on the floor but a lot of confused footprints. Jus is particularly interested in hand prints around where the stones stood or on the pillars themselves, if someone tried to brace themselves.

Gareth looks around the room observing it's contents and notes anything he sees. He also scrutinizes the walls as Turrin is speaking looking for secret doors without appearing to be doing that.

Onrad then discreetly looks around the room for other entrances, or evidence within the room. He casually runs his hands along the walls and checks the adjacent rooms to make sure there are no secret doors.

Onrad checks the room for cleaning equipment to see if this is a place that Thrasher came often. He finds a few rags and a feather-duster in a corner.

Jus asks what seems an obvious question, "Can anyone pick up any of the stones, or must they be a priest of proper deity?"

After some thought, Jus asks, "Can you give us details of the rite used to activate the stones? Are there any special or rare components that must be used?"

"Well, I'm not sure how the Stones were invoked the first time. It was a long time ago and there aren't any records other than stories ", says Turrun. " I know for a fact that anyone can touch the Stones...that is , anyone alive."

Nonam gives the storeroom a quick look to see if he notices anything unusual, and then he turns his attention to Turrun. "So Turrun what can you tell us about these missing stones? Also do you know anything about this Som character?"

" Som the Dead ?...Hummm , the rumor has it that he showed up in town and threatened the Mayor , killed a few people and fled into the swamp. He's being blamed for the attacks by the undead but other than that I don't know anything." says Turrun as he twists a ring on his finger nervously.

Onrad listens intently as the others question the assistant priest.

Onrad asks Turrun, "Do you know where Thrasher lives or hangs out? Do you know why he has not returned to the temple to work? " I think that he lives over in the Beggars Quarters and frequents the taverns there. He said he wasn't coming back to the Temple until the problem with the undead is finished." answers Turrun. " If there isn't anymore questions, I'll return to my studies. "

Turrun turns and leaves the room.

After Turrin leaves , Gareth intensifies the search noting the location of the room in reference to the outside walls. He says to Kat when the party seems alone "He sure did like your eyes ..."

Flaust waits patiently for the questions to end, then asks the group to go check out Thrasher.

After the party leaves the temple and is alone Gareth says "We should have someone trail the priest. He's lying about his involvement I think. I bet he contacts this Som guy about us. It seems everyone wants to know about us ..."

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Friday January 23rd, 1998 4:30:40 PM
Jerry says: here's some more rumors:

The Free-Staters league is meeting in Lankhmar for the first time in over 100 years. They plan to renew the League and field a joint army to assist the elves in Culverwood. Strangely, Lankhmar refuses to join their efforts.

The Dark Lord's Army is now said to number over 10,000 troops and will march on New Elenna to obtain the Ring of Water. They supposedly do not believe that the ring has fallen to the Sahuagin. The Dark Lord has promised his followers free government of the Floating City once it is taken.

Ursis, Master of Bards, has undertaken a noteworthy mission into Culverwood to establish the elves ability to protect themselves and to bring them offers from The Emerald Kingdom and the Free Staters of aid in the form of men and supplies.

Jerry


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 16 
Monday January 26th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Kat thanks Gareth for the compliment.

Nonam asks, "Did anyone else notice how nervous all these priests get when they talk about Som? I bet he studied in this temple of Gargul. At least, if I were going to be a necromancer, I'd study in a temple of Gargul. Now he's causing trouble, and they don't want to admit that it's their fault."

Tiburon says, " Maybe he's a renegade who's come back to get vengeance on these guys ."

Onrad draws Jus aside to a side room and says, I suggest we set a trap against Thrasher's return. I also think that hiring someone to trail our priest friends here would be a good idea. What do you think?"

Flaust says, "Why don't we ring the temple, watching all exits, and see where Turrun exits. It'll be easier to tail him if we switch off during the pursuit."

The group leaves the Temple and Gareth stops a local and asks where the Beggars Quarters are.

Jus tries to remember details of the ring Turrun was wearing, just in case it is important later.

Gareth watches around the area "nonchalantly" as the party travels trying to detect anybody following the party. He says "We need to watch our backs. I smell a rat. Those guys know who took the stones and are not saying. I bet this Thrasher guy knows something too. We'd better get to him fast because I bet he'll be gone if someone else gets to him first. Can't one of you spell casters tell when somebody's lying? Or maybe make someone tell the truth?"

Nonam follows everyone around as they look for Thrasher.

To Kat ,Gareth asks "What spell did you cast back there?"

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Monday January 26th, 1998 4:30:40 PM
<John Says To Everyone>

A couple of things about the Woldian address. They were having problems, but have fixed them now. Some of the mail was not getting forwarded, and some was being mangled in the process. They are upgrading to a new version, so I don't doubt that was the cause. In summary, the explicit addressing to Keith, Jerry, and JK should not be necessary any longer.

Also, the Woldian address will forward smaller messages with less delay (one test case was an hour to forward a long message versus 5-10 minutes for a small). Because of this, make sure you delete the previous turn from your reply before sending it.

John's message about the usa.net stuff seems to be right. Messages are coming in minutes apart now - instead of hours apart.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 17 
Tuesday January 27th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Flaust replies to Gareth, "Yes, I can cast a Zone of Truth, but I'll have to request it first. And I agree with you that time is of the essence in reaching Thrasher before something happens..."

Kat says "I vote for ringing the temple and following Turrun, yes Gareth one of the priests or I can memorize a spell to detect truth, however it would take a day to memorize it. Oh Gareth the spell I cast did not work as I had hoped, but thanks for asking." Kat smiles softly, blushing.

Gareth continues to move quickly toward the Beggars Quarters as he is afraid of missing Thrasher. He says in response to Kat "I'm afraid if we surrounded the temple they'd see us and respond appropriately. I think it would be better if some of us who were "more silent" than others were to stake it out and the rest of us be close enough to respond if needed but out of sight. But first, lets get to this Thrasher guy ..."

Jus warns everyone, "Remember what happened last time. Don't ask any questions or let other people into our doings unless it is absolutely necessary. We don't want word of our plans going ahead of us again. "

Privately to Onrad Jus says, "What type of trap are you thinking of? And why do you think Thrasher is the one we are looking for?"

Tiburon hurries along with the rest , glancing behind from time to time to be sure they're not followed. " Hey guys, what will we do if he's not at his house ?"

The area around them grows more desolate as the group goes toward the Beggars Quarter. Signs of decay and squalor become more and more frequent , with burnt out and empty buildings lining the streets. As the group rounds a corner , they see several figures huddled around a small fire. All the figures seem to be wrapped in dirty rags and stare at the fire apathetically.

Tiburon says," The house Thrasher lives in should be in the next block, if Turrun gave us the right directions. Do we want to just rush up to it or surround it ?"

The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 18 
Wednesday January 28th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Flaust says, "I prefer the direct approach. I question whether he is still even around..."

"Despite what happened last time, I think we should stick together", Jus comments. "Besides, " he says nodding towards the people ahead, "I think it's a little to late for surprise."

Answering Jus, Onrad says, "I'm not sure what kind of trap to lay. I've been noticing that we are now sans thief. We have only our wits about us. Perhaps a con job is in order. We could inquire of this necromancer, state that we've heard that he's taking over and we want to help. Then once we've got them all together, take them out or turn them against each other or something. I'm moving on around the corner to prevent our quarry from escaping in that direction. Someone should perhaps remain behind to keep escape from occurring in that direction as well."

Nonam says, "Why don't we just knock on this guy's door? So far as we know he's just a janitor. By Garg's good eye, it seems all of you want to turn this into a witch hunt!! Why don't we just round up everyone who has been in that temple in the last 5 years and burn them at the stake."

"That might be just a little too drastic," Tiburon says with a chuckle. " Let's just go up and talk to him. "

Kat says "Lets just go in like we were calm, and collected, like we are going to visit a friend. If we panic everyone he is sure to run whether he's guilty or not."

Gareth says "Tiberon, why don't you go around back. Take someone with you. We'll knock on the front door. This guy needs to be questioned but we need to be somewhat polite until we have a good reason not to be. But it's good to take precautions."

Tiburon nods and turns to Onrad, " Why don't we go keep watch . "

Onrad nods and increases his pace around the corner, to cut off any escape in case any intended quarry tries to leave before being questioned.

Tiburon snorts , shakes his head and mutters, " Ah, the exuberance of youth and righteousness." and follows Onrad around the corner.

Gareth widens his gate and moves post haste to get to Thrasher's house. Once there he waits for Tiburon to move around back, approaches the door, and says quietly "Kat, why don't you knock on the door ... he'll not be frightened he sees you instead of one of us."

Kat nods and smiles at Gareth," If you say so."

As the remaining members of the group approach the door to Thrashers' house, the people around the fire give them a dull, blank look then return to staring at the flickering flames. The smell of unwashed bodies and spoiled food grows as the group pass by, and small piles of old straw lie next to gutted buildings. Thasher's house is a small one-story building with patches of mortar covering places where the stonewall cracked. Each wall , that can be seen , has two shuttered windows . The door is wooden with iron bands across it and you get the impression that it is very sturdy.

The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 19 
Thursday January 29th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Kat says "Hey can we watch the Witch Hunt comments, please." Kat fixes her dress, flips her hair, casts a small glamor cantrip, smiles stunningly and knocks on the door.

Onrad snorts at Nonam's comment about "just talking to them." He mutters, "We're heroes. We are dressed for the part and even look like an adventuring band. They are citizens of a city of thieves. Whatever should we be concerned about?"

Nonam's hair turns bright red as he follows Onrad around the corner and scathingly says, "Looking like a hero doesn't make you a hero. Only your actions do, and preparing traps and beatings for someone because a PRIEST OF GARGUL said he looked suspicious isn't exactly the kind of thing I classify as heroic. Sure thieves live in this city, but some innocent unfortunates live here too. If you've forgotten that's why we're here... to save them. Now this Thrasher fellow may be the guy who took the stones, or he may be the kind of person we're here to protect. I'd prefer to find out which he is before we start in on him accusing him of things and casting spells at him. Even if he is the bad guy, attacking him without proof wouldn't be right. Though I suppose it is the kind of thing people from Osto do............ but not heroes. Let's be examples to these people rather than another group of ruffians."

Flaust walks over to the front right corner of the house an waits to see what happens.

Nonam waits for an answer to Kat's knock. As he waits, his hair returns to it's normal black color.

Jus stands to the side of the party with his back against the wall and away from the door. He watches the street and the windows of nearby buildings, thinking back on his failed attempt to watch the door in the witches - er - Kat's house.

Gareth waits for Kat to knock and Thrasher to answer. He listens carefully for noises and watches the windows for movement or changes in light through the cracks. He also scans the area around the house to look for people in the shadows or anyone trailing the party.

After a few moments, the door opens a crack and a wavering voice asks, " Who are you and what do you want ?"

Nonam steps up beside Kat and asks, "Is Thrasher home?" As he asks, he pulls a small bag of coins from some hidden pocket in his robe and gives it a little shake. "We would be most grateful if we might speak with him."

" I'm Thrasher, go away...they might be coming any time now."

From the bag, Nonam pulls a faintly glowing piece of silver with the kind of flourish only a spell caster can make. "Good sir, would you be so kind as to answer a few questions for us?... we can pay for any information that you might offer." He then drops the coin back in the bag and lifts his eyebrows knowingly.

The door opens a little wider and a scruffy looking man looks out ans says , " How much you willing to pay ?"

Nonam says," I'll give you two silvers just to talk and a total of ten if you answer all our questions ."

The door opens a little bit wider and a man dresses in a stained shirt and breeches stands there. " Well give me the two and I'll answer a few questions, for you." He holds out his hand waiting for the money.

Gareth takes a step back so as not to intimidate him - just yet ...

Onrad continues to watch the area feeling somewhat paranoid in this city of thieves.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Thursday January 29th, 1998 4:30:40 PM
JK-Sorry about all the "if this happens then" stuff. Just trying to keep you from having to do all the work.

<John to everyone> Just another reminder (Dave and Jerry)... Delete the previous turn's text from your response before you send it back to the Woldian address. It will speed up netaddress's forwarding.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 20 
Friday January 30th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Flaust steps completely around the corner to avoid being seen by Thrasher.

Flaust goes over to Onrad and says, "I think Gareth was on to 'SOM'thing -- I bet that idiot Turrun loaned out the stones to his friend Som for a study project, and now Som's disappeared with them, and Turrun won't 'fess up. Poor Thrasher may or may not have been an accessory."

Gareth continues to look around the area for anybody watching them. Especially for ruffians who may have seen the offer of money. He looks on the rooftops as well as the ground level. He also looks inside past Thrasher to see if there is anyone else around.

Nonam hands the man three silver. "Just a little down payment on the whole ten."

" What do you want to know ?" says Thrasher opening the door a little wider.

Kat glares at Nonam mumbling, "If he wanted a footman to knock on the door for him I wouldn't have wasted the glamour."

Kat asks Thrasher sweetly "Dear handsome sir, might we come in to debate the financial matters? I am a bit frightened, sitting here exposed and alone out here, I would feel MUCH safer inside with you to protect me."

Thrasher looks nervously around and says," I don't know you good enough to let you in. Let's talk out here."

Seeing Nonam's red hair as he comes back around the corner, Jus rolls his eyes heavenward. To himself, Jus says, "What, pray tell, have you done this time, Nonam; this is not the time for any of us to loose our temper!" He then peeks around the corner to see if Onrad has lost his temper, as well; for the moment, ignoring the exchange at the doorway.

Onrad turns to the others with a very hurt look in his eyes. He holds his hands out in a gesture of peace and says, "Did I say something wrong? If so I apologize. I thought I was just answering Jus' question..." Then, Onrad seems to come to a decision. He removes his hood, revealing flowing tears, bows, pulls his hood up over his face once again, and walks away.

Tiburon hurries to catch Onrad, " Don't listen to Nonam, he gets too full of himself and spouts off sometimes. Let's see what needs to be done, then our actions can show that we're Heroes. "

Nonam asks, "First of all, who might be coming?"

Thrasher tears his eyes from Kat and says, " Why, the undead , of course."

Gareth asks nicely "What time to the undead usually show up? How many are there usually?"

Trasher seems to recoil from Gareth a bit. " They don't show up at any regular time and usually in bunches. "

Nonam asks, "Did you notice anyone unusual hanging around the Temple of Gargul in the past few weeks?"

Thrasher turns back to Nonam, " I haven't been there since the undead started showing up..it's too dangerous you know."

Nonam asks, "What do you know about the 4 stones in the Temple of Gargul that were stolen?"

" Well .. um..one day I went to the room to clean them and they were gone. I didn't do anything ,they were..um..just gone." Thrasher stammers out.

Nonam asks, "Does the name Som mean anything to you?"

Thrashers' eyes grow wide and he gets pale, "Where did you hear that name....I don't know anyone by that name, now go away." Thrasher slams the door shut without getting the rest of the money from Nonam. You hear the sounds of bolts being shot home and hear scraping sounds.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Friday January 30th, 1998 4:30:40 PM
JK says - I like the way the turns have been lately. I don't think we're going to finish this month though. Keep up the good work. And thanks for the break :D If you need a little time off, let me know.

JK says - I'll be out of town Fri. and Sat. Don't know if I'll miss any turns or not. I won't be at the local game Friday though.

Jerry says: JK, what brought that on? This seems to be going way past friendly banter and frankly I do not appreciate it. I tried handling this several different ways. Blowing it off and making a crack about Nonam's beautiful hair, or apologizing sincerely and refusing to let it get to him. I think that this is truly what Onrad would do at this point. If this was a regular local game, you would see me at this point pick up my dice and leave.

AD- Just checking !!


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 21 
Monday February 2nd, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Onrad turns into the first tavern he sees, stop, grimace, loosen his sword, and say to any who followed: "Nonam has insulted me for the last time. I will remain in Osto until Nonam formally apologizes, comes forward for a gentlemen's duel, or leaves town as a coward. If he apologizes, or survives our duel, honor will be satisfied. He is the one who has proven himself dishonorable. I doubt he can change. He insults and manipulates those around him with his words and does much harm with them. I cannot and will not be a part of that."

Tiburon follows him into the inn and says, " That's true , but with those people you have to fight their fire with your own. Point out every time they try to manipulate others and show the others the truth. I'll take your words back to Nonam and the others and see what happens. " With that Tiburon turns and leaves the inn.

Nonam shrugs his shoulders when Thrasher closes the door. Then he looks around and says, "Well that didn't seem to work.... maybe we should just wait for the undead. They're coming you know."

Flaust says to Nonam , "Look, I'm trying to ignore this whole debate on the down-trodden, what percentage of the neighborhood is evil, and all of that. It's more important, at this moment, to resolve the immediate threat poised by the undead. Stay on task."

Flaust says, "We're going to need the influence of a Charm Person to get anything else from Thrasher. I can go request this from Alemi, but it'll be a day before it's available. Or, if we need to work off our frustrations, we can always stick around 'til tonight and bash some undead..."

Jus says to Nonam , "Remember that time when we fought the giant scorpion? You made me a bit angry with you comments about shooting arrows in the room!"

"Let's find a place to stay for the night," Jus suggests. "I'm more than willing to get up and pound some undead skulls if we here anything start. And I do have some thoughts about Thrasher, but right now we should hold to the vows we took earlier and try to keep our party's unity."

Kat says "Do you want me to KNOCK the door?" While we are doing this someone please go after Onrad, I know he's a bit sensitive but he is a decent person and I would hate to lose his friendship. Noman, is there any reason that you feel you must insult EVERYONE?"

Gareth angrily says "Back up." And he bashes through the door kicking anything in his path out of the way. He grabs Thrasher by both arms, picks him up to eye level, looks him straight in the eye and loudly says " Enough of the nice guy stuff! I have no use for liars! You were involved in the removal of those stones! I don't care what you did or how you did it - there are people dying out there because they are gone! And they will continue to die because of you! Maybe even YOU will be killed by those things out there! You are going to tell me exactly what you did, who is involved, and where the stones are now! And don't give me any of this 'I'm afraid of what they'll do to me' stuff because you better worry about me!! I'll THROW you to those ungodly creatures if you don't come clean! Then you can deal with your own creation!" Gareth holds him there waiting for a response.

" Let me down, you big oaf !!! " screams Thrasher, his legs flailing in the air. " Can't you see what you've done ! I'll never get that door fixed before they come !"

Gareth begins to walk toward the door with Thrasher. When he gets to the door he says sternly "Last chance before you meet the justice of your own making. I won't stop them from getting you when they come. They'll get to meet me AFTER they're done with you. Your only chance is to convince me that your worth protecting."

" NO !! PUT ME DOWN !! " screams Thrasher in fear. " He'll kill me !! "

Gareth says , " Last chance..Talk !"

" OK....OK, I'll talk..... He made me do it ! I was going home that night and as I passed by the Jail a big light flashed inside. He came out and started to do something..I begged for my life and he stopped. He asked me who I was and when I told him he said that if I didn't do just what I was told, He'd send THINGS to kill me.He told me to steal the stones and give them to him. I did ,but I don't think he knew too much about them. He thought there was only three ( chuckle ) , I kept the fourth one as insurance against him trying to kill me. It seems he found out and is sending the undead to get the third stone. Now if you don't mind, will you let me GO !", says Thrasher kicking his legs. Gareth puts him down gently and says "That's better.We'll protect you from reprisal for helping us. But if I find out you didn't tell us everything NO ONE will save you from me! Tell me if there is anything else because I WILL find out anyway."

With a look of disgust Gareth says to Nonam "Better pay him the rest of his money. We wouldn't want to short someone on a deal." And with that turns and leaves the house without looking back.

" Hey, aren't you gonna fix my door ? ", shouts Thrasher at Gareths' back

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Monday February 2nd, 1998 4:30:40 PM
JK says, Sorry. Maybe it's time I role-played Nonam out if you feel that way.

David-Enough tip-toeing around ... it's time for some action! Great turns lately. Good job. ------------------------------- Jerry says: Guys, I don't know the proper way to word what I want to happen for this turn so I'll just tell you in narrative what I'm wanting to do and let you aid me in the wording of it, if I'm allowed to. I've noticed that everyone continues to talk to him this turn as if he's still there. He is not. I left last turn walking down the street. Anyone who wants to talk to him I would think must catch up with him as he walks briskly away and follow him. (I honestly don't feel that Onrad has done anything wrong here. It would be nice to get to continue to play him, but I've gone too far down this path for him to back down from this in any way. If he continues, he remains a person of principle. If he backs down, he is just an irrational child.) ( Jerry-returning to the game and preparing his dice once more....:)


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 22 
Tuesday February 3rd, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Onrad jumps up from the bar throwing down his drink breaking the glass on the floor. "Shucks. He's doing the same blasted thing to me that my brothers used to do. And I was reacting in the same way. That devil-haired bully. He does the insulting and I'm the one out here leaving the group that I want to be with. He can leave. Next time he opens his mouth, I'll show him what it means to insult Onrad Pryderi!"

He storms out of the bar," Hey, Tiburon ! Wait for me !" he says as he strides forward to walk with Tiburon and heads back to Thrasher's house.

Onrad says as they walk back, "Never again will I walk away from this group. My vow stands. However, yesterday in the bar, Nonam released me from my vow to him. I do not renew it except as it affects the group. May Alemi judge between him and I. So speaks Onrad Pryderi!"

Tiburon looks at him with a smile , nods and says , " Now that sounds like a Hero out of the Tales."

(meanwhile)

To Nonam ,Gareth says "Will you please lighten up on him? He's a little sensitive but he is still a part of our group. His knowledge of the country and it's history is very valuable, and an extra sword is always welcome. I'm not any good at resolving conflicts but I think if you don't run him off he'll probably figure out how to deal with you. You at least owe him a chance because of the vow we all took. Make peace with him tonight before we fight."

Gareth says "Lets go get Onrad and Tiberion. I don't like us being apart especially on a night when a battle will take place."

Jus comes over to Nonam, casting him an almost brotherly look. Quietly he says, "Nonam, you'll probably never know how important it is to me to have you as part of our group. Back at the wizard's tower you apologized to me for your harsh words; helping me see that my opinions of humans and, in a way, my opinion of wizards were flawed. You gained a friend in me, back then; now you can gain another in Onrad. I do not doubt you pride yourself in your skill with magic. Please, for just a few minutes, control your anger and pride with the same discipline as you control your art."

Nonam's hair begins to turn a dull grey, and he casts 'Mending' on Thrasher's door. As the door begins to rebuild itself, he gives Thrasher the rest of the money while saying in a low, sad voice, "You know I tried to convince them that you were a decent sort of fellow. I guess you made a liar out of me..." Nonam's hair begins to turn red again as he continues, "Now bring me that stone you kept from Som, or I'll kill you myself. And after that I'll bring your lifeless corpse to Som and let him bring you back from the dead so that he can kill you again." Nonam pulls out a wand to make good on his threat.

" How do I know you won't do that anyway once you get the Stone ? You've already come crashing into my home like common thieves ! ", says Thrasher as he slowly backs away from Nonam .

"Great!", says Jus. "Gareth, you and I need to stay here and protect Thrasher, since you just gave your word." While looking directly at Nonam, Jus - forcefully - continues, "Meanwhile, Flaust you and Nonam should go repair any damage to the party we are oath-bound to protect - if that is still possible. Flaust, on the way, please let Nonam know the consequences if his oath is broken."

Turning to Kat, "Kat, you decide which group you can help more. If the undead come, I know Gareth and I will have need of you, and," winking to her, he adds, "I'm sure Gareth would truly appreciate your company."

Gareth turns, comes back and says "Where is the fourth Stone? You will give it to us now! It belongs in the temple. You may come with us tonight since your door is busted but if what you said is true about Som sending the creatures to get the last Stone tonight, your door won't make any difference. They'll break it down, kill you, get the Stone, and then he'll have all four and the power to use them. If you give it to us, and leave with us, the creatures will come here and find neither you or the Stone. That way we can prevent him from capturing the Stone and protect you too. You will also tell us where you dropped off the other three Stones and where Som is. You will also tell us anything you know about his creatures or his hideout in the swamp and why the priests at the temple of Gargul won't tell us everything. If you don't your in violation of our deal and so I'll rip your door off and destroy it completely. And you can stay here and try to explain things to the creatures instead!"

" Get out ! I never made any deal with you ! First, you break down my door, now you threaten to kill me for the Stone ? What makes you any different than Som ? He never threatened to kill me for them, but you have signed my death warrant now. Do you think that door will hold now ? HUH!? You so called HEROES aren't any different than him, all you want is the Stones. ," Thrasher says scornfully. " Well if you want them , go get them from Som. He's in the swamp north of town. You bring the other three Stones to the Temple and I'll return the fourth. NOW GET OUT !!!" He yells.

Tiburon and Onrad walk up to the house and say," Hey, What's all the yelling about ? We heard you around the corner and you've scared all the people off."

Nonam goes to Onrad and says, "Thrasher was the bad guy. You were right and I was wrong, and I'm sorry. Okay?"

Tiburon looks around while standing at the door ." uhh...fellows....I think we might have a little problem here. It looks like company is coming."

Looking out the door, the group sees several creatures coming down the street from both directions.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Tuesday February 3rd, 1998 4:30:40 PM
David-That's better ... I guess Gareth just has a way with words. On the Onrad thing: Not only did Onrad walk down the street, but in the two prior turns he was with Tiberion and Nonam around the back of the house (or on his way there). I imagine the rest of the party would not have heard Nonam's comments in their entirety, if at all - other than Tiburon of course. Since it appears everyone played the turn as if they heard the exchange I wrote Gareth's response as if he did too. Although I don't imagine he would have if we played the turn as it seemed to me to have happened.


The Necromancer's Stones: Turn 23 
Wednesday February 4th, 1998 4:00:40 PM
Kat says "I think the choice of who to help just got made for me". She then begins to speak arcane words and make passes with her hands in the air.

" Uhh...guys....they're getting closer," says Tiburon from in the street.

Jus grabs Thrasher and with an intense quietness and a big grin, Jus asks Thrasher "Are there any other entrances we need to guard for you?". In an attempt not to scare Thrasher, Jus restrains himself as long as he can from pulling his swords out.

Jus then tells Thrasher, again in an eerily calm voice, "If the Stone is here, get it. We can then defend you and the Stone together. Don't think it is hidden; the undead will pull this place apart board by board until it is found."

Jus draws his swords and stays with Thrasher. He plans to protect this man at all costs.

Onrad turns to Nonam and says, "I do recognize the apology. In the future, direct your biting remarks in some other direction than me. I, myself also carry something that bites. Right now, though it wants to carve up on some undead! Let's make this place defensible quickly!"

Nonam says to Onrad, "We can work out our problems after we take care of these undead."

Nonam returns his focus to the creatures. He counts them and attempts to make out what they are as he approaches.

Onrad quickly begins glancing around the area and starts to move the table towards the door.

" Uhh..fellows...they're getting REAL close now ! ", says Tiburon as he moves some empty boxes into the middle of the street.

Nonam, wand still in hand, begins to walk slowly toward the creatures. As he goes, he says to Thrasher, "Now I'm going to kill the baddies so they don't eat you, and when I come back I expect you to give me that Stone. And today hasn't been such a great day, I've had a fight with one of my best friends you know, and so I would really appreciate it if you don't hassle me about this. There's no threat and no reward this time... just an appeal to your humanity. Give us the Stone so we can stop Som from sending undead into Osto."

" What do I care about the people in Osto, they've never done anything for me !" says Thrasher. " I only took those to same MY live . Now you're probably going to get me killed ! ".

Gareth with fire in his eyes looks at Thrasher barely holding back his rage. "Fool! Do you not think I can hear!? You said Som would send his creatures to kill you if you didn't do exactly what he said. Do you really believe he will stop until you're dead and he has the Stone? You stole the Stones, lied about it many times, and have caused innocent people to die because of your silence. And you accuse us of being thieves? How dare you! You are as responsible for the deaths as if you had done it yourself! You have even betrayed your word to Som which as you said is a problem! The only chance you have is to help us defeat this evil man because he won't quit until he has the final Stone and it doesn't appear you have long to wait!" - as he looks at the creatures coming down the street. "Decide who you will surrender to: Som or us. At least with us you get protection and a fighting chance to defend yourself."

" GUYS !! NOW WOULD BE A GOOD TIME TO HELP !! " yells Tiburon as he starts to fight the attacking Skeletons and Zombies .

" So, HERO," says Thrasher sarcastically, " You gonna leave your friends to fight alone ? That's not very heroic now, is it ? Go and get the others if you want the last one. "

Gareth begins advancing on Thrasher and says, "You'll not get away with this. You will pay for what you've done and we will find the Stone without your help."

Outside , the sounds of battle fill the air, whistling blades split the air and strike with a resounding thud into the rotting bodies. Onrad weaves a glittering web of steel as he dances and weaves among the bodies. " Take this, you foul creature ! " , he yells as his blade strikes home. " Go back to your foul Master, you'll not win this day !"

Tiburon faces the onrushing horde and presents his Holy Symbol , " In the name of Domi, Begone you Abominations !" . Several creatures shudder and turn away in fear but more take their place. The flood of bodies seems unending. Tiburon draws his sword and begins to fight for his life.

Flaust , seeing Tiburon facing down the street , turns in the other direction. With a flurish, she thrust her Holy Symbol toward the undead and yells," All seeing Alemi, banish these creatures back to their graves !" Several Skeletons fall to dust and a few Zombies turn in apparent fear to disappear back the way they came. Flaust then begins to unlimber her net.

Nonam moves between his comrades using his wand to keep the undead off his companions. " Hey Gareth, Jus ! We need your help out here."

Both Onrad and Tiburon begin to show signs of combat, a nick here and a cut there. Blood begins to flow freely from a gash that opens in Tiburon's forehead and sweat covers all those fighting.

Kat stands at the door looking for the biggest concentration of foes. When several mass for a rush, she mutters a few arcane words and points there. From her finger-tip a small red pea-shaped object flys to her target.

WOOOSH - BANG !! A great flash of light and heat fill the street. As the smoke clears, seared and burnt bodies lie in the alley." Heh..heh, " Kat laughs, " There's some that won't hurt anyone anymore." She looks around and sees still more undead in the street, but now the odds aren't so bad.

Below-The-Line (OOC) Comments 
Wednesday February 4th, 1998 4:30:40 PM
Necromancers Stones (Missed turn)

Sorry, I didn't get home until late so I couldn't do a turn for Thursday. Here's a map of where everyone is though. at the start of next turn.

Empty Bld. Empty Bld. _____________I Z S S S I________________________I

Z G S S S S S ZZ S S Z Z S ZZ _____________ Z SS S ________________________ I ------------- I dr I I i i I c I I O F I I I I _h_ J I [] K [] G hI___Ih T [] I I h I I N I I I I wI I Ti I I _____________I bbb I___________bed_________ I SSS S Z ___________G_ ZZ SS ZZ ________________________ I I I I S S I I Empty Bld. I Z Z Z I Empty Bld. I





J-Jus, K-Kat, N-Nonam, G-Gareth, O-Onrad, Ti-Tiburon, F-Flaust, T-Thrasher, dr-dresser, c-chest, table in middle of room, h- chair, S- Skeleton, Z-Zombie, G-Ghoul, b-boxes, table in middle of street by Onrad


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