Simon Monday December 14th, 1998 2:00:04 PM
"I've always liked the Spoon better." He heads inside.
DM Tuesday December 15th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The Iron Spoon is indeed warm and dry. As soon as Nonam and Simon step inside a serving maid hands them steaming glasses. "Welcome to the Iron Spoon. Here's some mulled wine to warm your bones. No charge. Make yourselves comfortable." The inn is doing a very good business today. The place is 3/4 full at an hour when most taverns are empty. All of the patrons appear to be simple travellers or villagers. There will likely be no fights in here today.
Gareth Tuesday December 15th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
stables the horses and unloads the wagon. He joins the group inside after he's done. "What do you have to eat?" he asks the bar maid.
Teko Tuesday December 15th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
Teko plops down in a seat and orders something to drink. He says to Jus, "Oh, I almost forgot, Jus. The impression I got about my future was that I would get drenched. I suppose that came true. But I'm sure you are more interested hearing what is in your future. Here it is: your feet are going to get big. That's the impression I got about you. Take it with a grain of salt, though. It's just a possibility. And, of course, I'm not at all sure what it means." Teko smiles, "Good luck, Jus."
Kat Tuesday December 15th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
Kat sits with her men around her and eats some poradge and a small ale.
Tiburon Tuesday December 15th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
Tiburon get some food and sits at the table to eat.
DM Wednesday December 16th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The serving girl tells Gareth, "We have a tasty beef stew or turkey. What would you like? Most people seem to be having the stew if that helps any."
Nonam Wednesday December 16th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
"I'll have the stew." Then he looks at Teko, "What's this about big feet?"
Simon Wednesday December 16th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
Simon looks over at Nonam and Teko and then turns to the serving girl, "When's the festival?"
Gareth Wednesday December 16th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
say "I'll have both!" with gusto.
Teko Wednesday December 16th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
"I'll take the stew, please," Teko says. Turning to Nonam he says, "Big feet. Mmm, that's the reading I came up with for Jus. It isn't very definite. I don't know if his feet are literally going to get larger or if it's symbolic in some way. And readings are never a sure thing. I won't even venture to say that they're likely. They're more something to keep in mind." Teko slides down a bit in his chair, relaxing.
Kat Wednesday December 16th, 1998 2:00:04 PM
Kat continues to eat.
DM Wednesday December 16th, 1998 2:00:05 PM
The serving girl grins at Simon and says, "The festival is tomorrow, and I hear there are a group of dwarves staying over at the Empty Jug." She says this last bit with a bemused look.
Nonam Thursday December 17th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
Nonam listens in on Simon's converstation.
Simon Thursday December 17th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
Simon spews his mulled wine on the unfortunate Teko when he hears about the dwarf. Then he and the serving girl look at the dimunitive mage and laugh again. Finally Simon announces, "Jus, I think I know why your feet will be big. Tomorrow is Zidiac's Festival of the Giant's Foot." He says that as if everyone should understand.
DM Thursday December 17th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
The serving girl, being perhaps just a tad brighter than Simon, quickly realizes that Simon's statement has done nothing to enlighten the party, so she helps him out by saying, "And it's traditional that on that day everyone must wear giant shoes."
Gareth Thursday December 17th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
eats. "What is the celebration all about?"
Teko Thursday December 17th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
Teko listens, very interested.
DM Friday December 18th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The serving girl goes over and kicks Gareth for his question and then goes back to the kitchen.
Simon Friday December 18th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
Simon grins and speaks before Gareth can react. "That's the traditional response for anyone who asks what the festival is about. You aren't supposed to find out until after you've bought your big shoes, but I'll help you out. Ages ago there was a shoemaker in town who had created shoes for a clan of giants, but they refused to pay him for their services. So he managed to dupe the local townspeople into buying the shoes on the basis that they were the latest fashion. The festival is way of reveling in their stupidity and getting revenge by convincing strangers to but big shoes too. Essentially it is a day of practical jokes and festivities. And everything will be topped off with a town dinner tomorrow at which awards for such things as 'Biggest Shoes' will be handed out."
Nonam Friday December 18th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
"Sounds like a rather pointless holiday."
Gareth Friday December 18th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
sits and smirks at the thought of being kicked by such a slight girl. He sits back and relaxes a bit as things looks like they are going to be uneventful for a night - finally...
Teko Friday December 18th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
"So, Simon, how do we go about getting these shoes? And is the only requirement that they be big?"
Kat Friday December 18th, 1998 2:00:04 PM
Kat leans over and kicks Gareth, for being so macho that he would be worried about being kicked by a small girl. Now hes been kicked by a small girl and a beautiful one.
Simon Friday December 18th, 1998 2:00:05 PM
"There is a local shoemaker who provides all the shoes. You can imagine his interest in keeping the holiday going. We should probably visit him today. Tomorrow there will be a rush. Most newcomers buy their shoes the day of the festival. It's a tradition of sorts."
DM Saturday December 19th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The serving girl returns with the food. It looks and smells good. As she is passing it out, a priest of Donyra comes into the tavern. He announces as he enters, "The rain is stopping. Donyra willing, my apprentice and I should be able to have the streets dried out before the beginning of the festival tomorrow." Then he looks about the tavern, "The roads themselves will most likely remain muddy for a day or two. You should all stay for the festival tomorrow." Then he turns and leaves, and the tavern erupts in a flurry of questions about the festival. You see a number of people get kicked by the serving girls.
Nonam Saturday December 19th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
"Well let's hurry up and finish our food and go get some shoes." He grins and says, "I simply must have an attractive pair."
Gareth Saturday December 19th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
looks at Kat and smiles big as he enjoys all the attention. Once the food arrives he eats with gusto and rolls his eyes at the thought of wearing big shoes thinking about all the the ways it would open up the party for quick attacks ...
Teko Saturday December 19th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
Teko begins to eat. He stares at his feet a lot.
Kat Saturday December 19th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
Kat begins thinking about casting a spell, that would give the illusion of shoees and help with attacks.
Jus Saturday December 19th, 1998 2:00:04 PM
"Well, if I'm gonna have big feet, I want them to be whoppers, sounds like lots of fun!."
DM Sunday December 20th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
While the eat, a halfling walks into the tavern carrying a set of giant shoes. Up until this point you really didn't realize how big giant shose would be. Stood on end these pair would easily be the same size as the halfling. A few of you can't help but laugh thinking about the halfling putting those on.
Nonam Sunday December 20th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
Hair turning blue, "Will they all be that big?"
Simon Sunday December 20th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
With a casual glance over at the halfling, "No. Most are bigger. That's a child's pair."
DM Sunday December 20th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
With his trained warrior's eye, Gareth notices that fighting in those shoes would be nearly impossible. Though given their size, it would be a simple movement to step out of them in a hurry.
Kat Sunday December 20th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
"How do they stay on?"
Gareth Sunday December 20th, 1998 2:00:04 PM
looks on and for the first time in a long time realizes life can indeed be fun. "Why not, I haven't done anything this silly since I was a very young boy before the raids. It would probably do me good."
DM Monday December 21st, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The serving girl looks at Kat and says, "They have some kind of woolen sock atached to the inside. It keeps them on, but they are srill very awkward."
Gareth Monday December 21st, 1998 2:00:00 PM
eats.
Teko Monday December 21st, 1998 2:00:01 PM
Teko orders dessert, pondering his budget. "How much do these shoes usually cost?"
Simon Monday December 21st, 1998 2:00:02 PM
"The cost varies. You can get a plain undecorated pair for a couple of silver, but if you want curled toes and all the bells and whistles, you could be talking about a bunch of gold. They don't want anyone to be left out, but the rich can't be exactly like everyone else."
Jus Monday December 21st, 1998 2:00:03 PM
Jus eats quietly and grins at the prospect of seeing everyone look foolish.
DM Monday December 21st, 1998 2:00:04 PM
The group finishes up their meal and can see through the window that the sun will still be up for another hour or two.
Nonam Saturday December 26th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
"Well, I suppose we should go pick out some shoes."
Nonam Saturday December 26th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
"Any objections?"
Gareth Saturday December 26th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
says with his normal gruff focused air "Let's go" as he always does when there is a mission...
Jus Saturday December 26th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
Jus indicates with a wry smile that he is ready.
DM Sunday December 27th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The group trods over to the shoemaker's with Simon leading the way. The ground outside is still muddy, but there is a team of priests working feverishly to dry it out. It looks like they will at least have the main street done by the morning. As Gareth ponders the difficulties involved in drying the soil, Jus spies the shoe shop and giggles in glee. There is a huge shoe - easily the size of a horse - sitting out front which seems to indicate that you found the right place. Once inside there are a variety of giant shoes. It seems from a cursory look that the proper shoe for the festival is one that if stood on end would come to your waist. As the party enters a bell rings, and after letting everyone look about for a minute, a gnarled old elf inquires, "May I help you brave sirs or your lovely companion perhaps?" With the last he gazes at Kat in open admiration.
Gareth Sunday December 27th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
says in his normal to the point manner "We have come to get shoes for the festival."
Teko Sunday December 27th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
"...Including, of course, shoes of an appropriate size for a gnome."
Nonam Sunday December 27th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
"...perhaps a color that will match my hair..."
Simon Sunday December 27th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
"And they are newcomers to the festival..."
DM Monday December 28th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The shoemaker walks up and looks everyone over, "Newcomers, eh? Wellwellwellwell... let's see... I think I have several pair that would do nicely for a group such as yourselves." The old elf goes about selecting shoes and eventually has everyone matched up with a pair. He seems to know his craft, strange as it is, for everyone's shoes seem to match some aspect of their personality. Kat's dazzle with color and beauty despite their size. Gareth's are plain and were he large would be simply functional shoes. Jus's are unquestionably designed for nothing but a fun day at the festival. The flowers on the toes are certain to invite comment. Somehow, Teko's manage to bespeak a skill at illusion. Perhaps because they don't actually look as if they are abnormally large... though they clearly are. And Nonam's, well Nonam's shoes are something of an anomaly. At least they match his hair. Whatever color it happens to be at the moment, there's a color on the shoes to match.
The shoemaker Monday December 28th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
"Now let's see. Something for this gentleman." He looks at Simon and pulls out a pair of what must be his finest giant shoes. "You'll be king of the festival. I was sorry to learn about you wife and child." Then the shoemaker begins to mumble, "No charge for the king shoes. Then we have five pair... a color shoe... and one of those there... Ah yes, your total will be... 51 gold and 4 silver."
Jus Tuesday December 29th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
"51... 51!!!! Wow, Gareth, I'm glad your paying for all this!"
Kat Tuesday December 29th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
"I'm glad someone notices me!" Kay says to the men in the party. "These shoes are perrrfect, thank you."
Teko Tuesday December 29th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
Teko, looking suprised, says, "Gareth, are you really going to pay for all of this? I would be glad to pitch in my share..."
Simon Tuesday December 29th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
"Kat, no man could ignore your beauty..."
Nonam Tuesday December 29th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
Noticing Gareth's silence, "Have no fear friends, I happen to have a little money." He then takes off his pack and after rumaging through it a second produces the exact amount."
DM Wednesday December 30th, 1998 1:59:59 PM
The party takes their large, newly acquired shoes and heads back to the Iron Spoon. As you journey back, you notice someone that looks a great deal like Onrad pause in the middle of the street. He looks up at the signs above the inns and then enters the Empty Jug. Gareth and Simon also recall that the carriage needs to be repaired.
Nonam Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:00 PM
"Was that Onrad?"
Jus Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:01 PM
Not even hesitating, Jus begins running (as best one can run carrying a pair of giant shoes), "Onrad! Onrad! You gotta see these! Did you get some? Where've you been! Are you looking for us? What type of shoes are you getting?"
Kat Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:02 PM
A tear forms in Kat's eye as she sees Onrad. She quickly wipes it away putting on hear best smile. Sliding up to Simon, she takes his arm and teases, "Thank you, Simon, I'm glad there's at least one man in our group." Glancing back towards Onrad's direction she adds, "I hope more men begin to show their mettle."
Gareth Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:03 PM
heads for the place where the carraige is stored and looks for somebody to repair the damage.
Teko Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:04 PM
Teko follows Jus, but keeps his distance.
Simon Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:05 PM
Simon smiles at Kat and stays by her.
DM Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:06 PM
The man who looks like Onrad, seems oblivious to Jus and his cries... as if his name was not Onrad. He continues and enters the Empty Jug. Everyone interested in the figure did notice that he was wearing new clothes... most noticeably a flowing blue cape. He was also armed though Gareth has Onrad's swords.
Nonam Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:07 PM
Determined to keep Jus out of trouble, Nonam hurries after him. "We might as well go in and make sure, but if it's one of his brothers or something don't torment the guy."
DM Wednesday December 30th, 1998 2:00:08 PM
Gareth finds someone to work on the carriage an old cart master named Gorb and his apprentice. Gorb informs Gareth that work is forbidden in town during the festival as a result of one too many practical jokes. It shouldn't take him long to fix though, and the carriage should be ready by mid-day after the festival. (Gareth will be out of the action for a few rounds - 2 for the conversation and 1 to get back.).
Gareth Thursday December 31st, 1998 1:59:59 PM
"Thank you Gorb. Midday after the festival will be fine. I'll be back to settle the account then." He exits and goes back to the inn to see if anybody is trying to kill Onrad yet.
Jus Thursday December 31st, 1998 2:00:00 PM
Shrugging his shoulders to the others, he turns and follows this "Onrad" into the inn. "Yeah, you're probably right -- although I wish it was Onrad with some wild story of why he acted that way."
Kat Thursday December 31st, 1998 2:00:01 PM
Smiling at Simon, Kat says, "Hmmm. I was thinking you and I could wait out here for Gareth, but I can't believe that was the Onrad we just left. Let's go in too."
Simon Thursday December 31st, 1998 2:00:02 PM
"I may as well go in too." He looks over his shoulder, "Tiburon? Teko?"
DM Thursday December 31st, 1998 2:00:03 PM
Those who enter see a shocking sight. No, it isn't the tavern. The tavern looks almost exactly like the one you've chosen. The shock is Onrad. The man standing in the middle of the room is clearly Onrad, he's dressed in blue clothes with some sort of crest on his chest. Stranger still his eyes seem to be giving off a faint blue glow. Strangest of all are his words to the tavern keeper, "...you have not paid Lord Elgrin your taxes this month. I have been sent to collect." The tavern keeper stammers, "But sir, I'll not have the money til after the festival is over." Onrad doesn't hesitate before giving a reply, "Lord Elgrin demands his money now. You know that his collectors have no choice in these matters. Bring me the money, or your establishment and life are forfeit." The tavern keeper looks at Onrad in absolute horror. Clearly he doesn't have the money, and he's trying to figure out some way to save his skin. Most of the people in the full tavern seem to care little. They act as if they are used to such scenes in these parts. Onrad stands mute and motionless as he waits.
Jus Sunday January 3rd, 1999 1:59:59 PM
Jus goes up to the owner and with a wink says, "I guess I'd better pay up some of my tab so you can pay off this debt. Just how much do you need?"
Gareth Sunday January 3rd, 1999 2:00:00 PM
goes back in to see what Onrad is up to now.
Teko Sunday January 3rd, 1999 2:00:01 PM
Having stepped in, Teko watches Onrad's reaction.
Nonam Sunday January 3rd, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Nonam heads to a table within earshot of Jus' converstation. He briefly wonders how much money Jus has -- considering his comment at the shoemakers.
Tiburon Sunday January 3rd, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Tiburon follows the rest into the pub and sits with Nonam.
DM Sunday January 3rd, 1999 2:00:04 PM
The propritier looks at Jus and says " But...but.. sir, you can't possably help me .... I owe Lord Elgin 1000gp's !.Whatever will happen to my family !" wails the man. Tiburon notices something strange about "Onrad" as he stands motionless, waiting for the Tax money.
Tiburon Monday January 4th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
" Nonam ! It looks like a possition spell has been cast upon Onrad." says Tiburon.
Gareth Monday January 4th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
looks on at Onrad and says to the others "We must help our friend. This is slavery. He has been taken over against his will. He would never agree to do this. What can you guys do? All I can do is restrain him."
Jus Monday January 4th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Ouch! He, he. 1000? That does cause a slight problem, doesn't it." Turning to Onrad, Jus asks, "Excuse me sir, what are the terms of this... this... uh... aggrement?" He manages to finish his question although looking at Onrad with glowing eyes troubles him.
Kat Monday January 4th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
To Noman: "I can cast dispell magic, I don't know what good it will do an I have a problem with that big ball of lard!!"
Nonam Monday January 4th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
"My thoughts exactly, Kat. Maybe this possession is what's been making him a 'ball of lard'. Cast and let's see what happens."
Teko Monday January 4th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Very quietly, Teko whispers to Kat, "I could use a Hypnotism spell, though I'm not sure that it would break what is on him now. I could knock him out with Color Spray...if there weren't so many other people around. Let's wait and see."
DM Monday January 4th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
'Onrad' turns his head and locks his glowing eyes on Jus and says in a terrible monotone voice ," He must pay his taxes to Lord Elgin or forfit his life ." He then turns back to the Propritor and waits motionless.
Tiburon Tuesday January 5th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
" Nonam, I'm going to try to cast a Protection fron Evil on him and see if it wotks", says Tiburon. With that said he cast PFE upon the still motionless 'Onrad'.
Gareth Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
stands ready to intervene if Onrad attempts to attack back.
Jus Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Onrad.... do you know me?"
Nonam Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Nonam nods to Tiburon. He prepares to cast his own Dispel Magic in case Kat doesn't.
Teko Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Teko waits to see the effect of the spells cast.
Kat Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Kat stands by waiting for the nod from everyone to cast.
Tiburon Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
Tiburon bends his head and prays to Domi.He looks up , makes a few passes through the air with his hands and points at 'Onrad'.
DM Tuesday January 5th, 1999 2:00:06 PM
Tiburon finishes casting his spell and a few moments later the motionless 'Onrad' shakes, blinks, looks around the room and says , " What... where am I ? How did I get here ? What am I doing wearing this cloak ? " He looks at the group geathered around him and asks " What are you doing here ? I remember walking away from you and after the fight with the Hell Hounds and running into a man in the forest. Now we're all standing in an Inn.... What's going on ?"
Gareth Wednesday January 6th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
says "Who was this man you ran into? He seems to have forced you into servitude. We broke his spell."
Jus Wednesday January 6th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
Jus breaks into a grin and gives Onrad a big hug.
Teko Wednesday January 6th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
Teko bows. "It is good to see you again, Onrad. Do you feel all right?"
Nonam Wednesday January 6th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Nonam nods to Onrad from across the room, "Are you feeling better? Care to explain anything?"
Kat Wednesday January 6th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Kat walks up to Onrad, looks him straight in the eye, slaps him, grabs both sides of his face and then kisses him passionatley. With that she wistles back to her seat and finishes eating.
Onrad Wednesday January 6th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Onrad's eyes clear and he gets a very confused look on his face. He looks at Teko and then at Nonam. "I feel...." He looks at Kat. "I feel...." He collapses onto the floor sitting and looking up at Nonam and then Kat with tears welling up in his eyes. "I feel......" Onrad then curls up into a fetal position and bawls like a baby, "I'm sooo sorry. I....sorry! AhhhHUHhuh....huh.....Oh Gods I'm sooo....HuhhhhuhAAAHH!Hohohooooooo....." He shakes and continues crying out of control.
DM Wednesday January 6th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
The Propritor and the other guests glance around with shocked looks on their faces. " But sire... what do I do about Lord Elgins' Tax now? ", says the Innkeeper as he wrings his hands. " I still don't have enough to pay him."
Gareth Thursday January 7th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
trying not to scare anybody says with poorly shielded rage "Who is Lord Elgin and where is he? I don't know about your tax but I do know I won't tolerate someone taking my friend as a slave against his will. He will pay for this."
Gareth Thursday January 7th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
After a moment of silence he adds in a very menacing and angry way between clenched teeth " - and he would have made Onrad kill you too, wouldn't he? Over taxes?"
Nonam Thursday January 7th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
Nonam digs a necklace out of his back and hands it to the tavern owner, "This should cover your tax plus any trouble this little incident may cause." Then he turns to Gareth and the others, "I agree with Gareth, but we don't have a lot of information on this. It's your call Onrad. Stay and enjoy the festival, or seek vengeance?"
Teko Thursday January 7th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Once again, Teko awaits Onrad's response.
Onrad Thursday January 7th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
"I...I don't know. He's powerful. Maybe too much. We might have to harm others that he's uh....taken before we could get to him. I'm still not thinking straight I think. It's up to you my......my friends." A slight look of puzzlement crosses Onrad's face as he said that and then he looks up and shyly grins.
Tiburon Thursday January 7th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Tiburon walks over to Onrad and says," Are you hurt anywhere? Come sit with us, we'll get something to eat and you can tell us what you remember. We need more info before we deciede on a course of action. " Tiburon leeds Onrad to the table Kat has claimed and sits .
Simon Thursday January 7th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
"I know something of these matters having lived here abouts even though my own town was outside Elgin's control. I know nothing about Elgin possessing people, but I have also never heard of his collectors killing anyone. They have the authority to frighten and seize property in exchange for money owed, but they also do this as a last result. I would say that our friend here hasn't paid his tax in several years to owe so much. Also Elgin does provide for the people of the region. He maintains roads which are not kept by the kingdom, and his troops offer protection from wandering tribes of goblins or anything that ventures out of the monster preserve. I also assume he must be a vassel of the king for surely she must know of his presence, and she allows him control over the region. So anyway, I think that perhaps we should let this matter go."
DM Friday January 8th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
The tavern keeper holds the glittering necklace in trembling hands and says in a voice barely above a whisper to Nonam, "Thank you, milord." Then when Simon finishes speaking he speaks, "He speaks the truth. I haven't been able to pay my taxes for about three years, and I too have never heard of a collector killing someone. I've also never heard of someone owing so much. If it was a scare tactic it worked for I thought my life was about to end. Had it been spared, Elgin would have seized my inn and auctioned it off. If I was still living, I would have been able to keep any amount above the 1000 owed for that is the way it's done. Then old Haldi across the street would have bought my inn just to gloat. Still lords I thank you for saving my life, and you're all certainly welcome to stay here for free anytime you pass through for your aid in this matter."
DM Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
A bard that was playing to the crowd inside the inn picks up his lute and begins to play, "The Three came to Zidiac for the Festival of Shoes, but sadly for all of them, one was possessed by a man in blue..." He continues making up the song as he goes, and when he finishes the patrons erupt in applause and bang cups on the tables and demand more songs about the Three. The party also becomes aware that they are carrying giant pairs of shoes about.
Jus Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Today is a great day. Shoes, Onrad, our name in song, even seeing Nonam increadably generous; what more could one ask for?"
Gareth Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Goes and puts his shoes in his room. He then returns after having some time to think and says "It sounds like maybe this Lord Elgin is either turning to evil to collect taxes or this is not Lord Elgin's doing. How can we find out more?"
Nonam Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
"I know. We'll just send Elgin a message and tell him that the mighty Three have become concerned about his taxation policies, and we'll kindly suggest that he stop using such measures, or we'll be forced to deal with the situation." Then he pauses and spreads his hands, "Or we could revel in the fact that Onrad has been returned safely to us, his actions of late justified, and we could have a good time at the party tommorrow. Then we continue on our vacation having a good time, and simply by travelling through Elgin's lands, we'll learn more about him if we are observant."
Kat Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Kat looks at Onrad and says "Well you cute little shrimp, it seems as if it's your choice."
Teko Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
"It could be that Elgin is under some form of powerful mind control. Perhaps, he isn't himself, much as Onrad wasn't."
Onrad Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:06 PM
Out of reflex Onrad spins on Kat and says, "I"m not a shrim..." Then he stops surprised and says, "Uh, sorry Kat, bad habit that." He eats a few bites of rations and continues. "I suggest we enjoy the holiday and our vacation and move on down the road to Tincrow. I'm curious to see what happens if I just go missing. Whoever that blue guy that did this to me will wonder how I escaped. Besides, I have reason to think that he will...so to speak.....come after us." Speaking softly to Kat, "Uh, I think I did quite a bit of collecting....so to speak this past day. Is it my fault if my collections say ended up by accident in my saddlebag outside? I sorta figured it could be partial payment for my unsolicited help."
Tiburon Friday January 8th, 1999 2:00:07 PM
Tiburon looks closely at Onrad and says, " I think that was just a scare tactic... Onrad doesn't have any weapons, see. I think we should give him back his swords, now that he's back with us."
Simon Sunday January 10th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
Perks up his ears when Onrad mentions money, and he wanders outside. He returns with a saddlebag. "Well it looks like maybe this wasn't such a bad deal for Onrad. He has a very nice horse tied up outside... and this." He opens up the bag and spills the contents out on a table. Eyes go wide in wonder as hundreds of gleaming coins and sparkling jewels fall out of the sack to land on the table with a wealthy noise. "This little haul is worth thousands."
Nonam Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
Stares at the money for a bit then his hair turns blue and he says, "I think you've missed your calling Lord Pryderi. You should have been a tax man. I think taking this Elgin's money may just about make up for the trouble he has caused us." Then Nonam eyes a finely crafted necklace in the mix and pulls it out saying, "To replace one I just lost." Then he tucks it into one of the many folds in his robe.
Onrad Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
Now, that was nice, pouring all that money all over the table. Twill let the Lord and the Blue robed man knows exactly who to go to when one of them desires to have it back. Now, can we put it up please before someone is tempted to get jealous of our fortune?" Turning to Gareth, "Methinks my find friend that we may now find another worthy purpose for our current venture: helping the evil rich help the goodly poor. I kinda like that!"
Gareth Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
with bright eyes and an evil grin says "I like the idea of taking the money. We can put some more in our kitty and still have tons left over to give to a worthy cause!" Finding a better way to vent his rage he says "And the animal that took you into slavery will come to us! We don't even have to go find him. This is good." He reaches into his pack and pulls out Onrad's swords and hands them to him. He then takes a couple of the gems (1000 gp) and puts them in the kitty. Then he puts the rest back in the saddle bag and says "So what do we do with it? Anyone want to carry it? If not I will until we decide what to do with it - unless we want to decide that now."
Jus Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Helping put the newfound treasure back into the saddlebags, Jus says, "Mayhap we should be leaving now. I would rather find our fight with the 'blue man' on the road than amongst the populace."
Kat Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Before the money is put back in the bag, Kat take a large gem from the pile, kisses it, and places it between he breasts benieth he blouse. Winking at Onrad she says "to keep my heart warm and as payment for the scars you were forced to give me." With that she stands and looks at the men. "Well come on boys, we have a country to see, and a blue man to anger." The she dances out the door.
Teko Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
As Teko begins to leave, he says to the innkeeper, "You wouldn't happen to have something I could snack on as we go on our way?"
Onrad Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:06 PM
Onrad jerks his head at Kat's....mounds of joy....and squeaks out, "Scars?" His head jerks to her face. "Scars?" Onrad is surprised. "No... ..Nooooo...I hoped that part was just a ....Nooooo....." Onrad sits back down in the bar chair, his head hitting the table with a thump. He just stays there.
Nonam Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:07 PM
"HEY! Wait a minute. It's gonna be dark before too much longer, tommorow there's a festival that I just bought several pair of giant shoes for, and the wagon's still busted. I thought the money meant we weren't going to hunt Elgin down... and if we were even considering hunting him down, then why should we run from him because we got his money. I for one am tired of things getting in the way of this vacation. Let's stay here and enjoy our selves."
Tiburon Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:08 PM
" I have another idea you might want to think about," says Tiburon," What if this Lord Elgin really is a noble with a Royal right to collect taxes? Do you want to go against one of the King's vassels ? That would be pitting ourselves against the whole realm, one that we have shown we support in the past. Why don't we take a day or two off, then seek this Lord Elgin and ask him about his actions. We can take approprate actions after we find out more."
Simon Sunday January 10th, 1999 2:00:09 PM
Looks troubled. "You know, since I've known all of you my wife and daughter have been brutally killed and I've possibly run into trouble with kings and lords. I think perhaps I should leave before something worse happens. I hate to leave you for you all seem worthy individuals, but I must." He looks as if he would say more, but he merely turns and leaves.
DM Tuesday January 12th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
Simon turns and leaves. As he walks across the room, everyone notices something strange about him. It's hard to place... a hint of blue in his backback, perhaps? (everyone, even Gareth, passed a perception check)
Gareth Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
says "We need to stay until the day after the festival. That is when the carraige will be fixed. As far as Lord Elgin goes he has overstepped his authority. He took Onrad into servitude without his consent and he caused him to attack one of our own (glancing at Kat). Taxes or no, he has wrongfully exacted a price on us and we in return have exacted a price on him. If he has a problem with that then I welcome his response. I think he got off cheap. I will fight to the death before I accept slavery as a normal way of life. Let him come and try."
Onrad Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Uh, Simon? What's that touch of blue in your backpack? I want to see that. Don't know why for sure, but I definitely want to see that." Onrad tries to remember if he's ever seen it on him before. He knows what it reminds him of, but Onrad is trying very hard to not be rash.
Jus Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
With his eyes toward Simon to see what develops, Jus comments to the others, "My guess is that Elgin has little idea what happened. It probably was someone trying to earn a little extra money, or even a tax collector wanting to use someone to do his dirty work."
Teko Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
To Jus, Teko says, "That's the best explanation so far." He, too, watches Simon.
Tiburon Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Tiburon stands and walks after Simon." Simon, at least wait until after the festival to leave." As he closes on Simon he trys to get a better look at Simon's backpack.
Gareth Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
whispers "let him go and we will follow him. Maybe he'll lead us to the guy who is doing this." He then moves to follow whenever Simon hits the door. If there is any sign that Simon will attck he stands ready to intervene.
Simon Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:06 PM
Simon spins in the doorway, "Do you people attack everyone who tries to leave your group?"
Teko Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:07 PM
"No, but it's very curious that you would leave so abruptly."
Kat Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:08 PM
Standing behind Simon she tries to see what all the fuss is about.
Onrad Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:09 PM
Onrad having his patience tested for the 3rd time in as many minutes, waves him off and turns to his newly found horse and climbs on. He turns the horse facing the other way and begins muttering to himself...."I'm on vacation. This is a vacation. I will have fun. Life is a bowl full of chocolates..or was that cherries....I'm so happy....so happy...I think I'm getting better..."
Jus Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:10 PM
"Onrad!", Jus yells, shouting. "The shoe shop is over there! If you want some help finding something good, I'd be glad to help; just let me put my shoes up." Glancing at the party and Simon, Jus sprints to his room, gingerly puts his shoes down, and runs back.
Nonam Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:11 PM
"Simon, my companions are merely interested in why we saw something blue in your pack. If you'd just let us see it then you can be on your way."
Simon Tuesday January 12th, 1999 2:00:12 PM
"I guess I won't get any rest until I do." He takes off his bag and pulls a blue cloak out of it. "Yes, that's right I own a blue cloak, so do lots of other people... and as far as my wanting to leave abruptly, I think I covered that in my reasons for wanting to leave. I think they were good ones."
DM Wednesday January 13th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
A small crowd gathers to watch all the excitement.
Gareth Wednesday January 13th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
compares the blue cloak of Simon's to Onrads new blue cloak to see if they are similar.
Kat Wednesday January 13th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Simon, you can leave at any time, it was just your sudden decission, so much like our cute little shrimps that we became conserned, thats all."
Onrad Wednesday January 13th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Onrad nods his thanks to Jus, breathes a deep breath, and heads over to the shoe shop. As he walks away from the situation, each step he takes becomes lighter than the one before. As he disappears from view, he jumps up, clicks his heels, and enters the shop.
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