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.
Teko Wednesday January 13th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
"If you really wish to leave, Simon, I can certainly understand."
Jus Wednesday January 13th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Bounding back down the stairs, Jus looks around for Onrad. Not seeing him, he goes over to the others to see what they've discovered with Simon.
Nonam Wednesday January 13th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
Nonam takes the cloak from Simon and holds it up.
DM Thursday January 14th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
The cloaks appear to be the same color. They also have very similiar cuts.
Simon Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
"Very close in appearance, aren't they? Still it doesn't prove anything, and I gave you my reasons for wanting to leave. It doesn't seem so out of place to me. All of you are talking about fighting lords who are vassels of the king. I want no part of it. I spoke up as soon as you began to discuss it. It isn't something I need to think about for a week."
Gareth Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
looks at Simon and says "We are trying to prove nothing. I don't care whether you collect taxes or not. I DO care if your are collecting taxes against your will. You are our friend and it would be wrong of us to not be sure of that. We would help you just as we did Onrad to break the spell. Are you associated with this tax collection scheme? I really don't have a problem with someone collecting taxes for the king. I also don't object to most of his tactics for getting them. It's just when he steals a person's freedom to FORCE them to collect the taxes for him. Especially someone who is not even part of this province. If you can explain what is going on it might help us from getting into something that we should not. If you collect taxes you are in no danger from us. We just need to know why Onrad was taken like that and one way or another we will find out. I would prefer to find out from a friend."
Simon Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
"I just have a blue cloak."
Jus Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Jus goes back into the tavern and asks the owner, "How common are the blue cloaks our friend the 'tax collector' was wearing, and what do they represent?"
Onrad Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Singing in the distant shop, "I'm shopping, shopping. Shopping my cares away. The more I spend, the more my soul is cleansed. I'm shopping, shopping! Shopping all the day!" Humming..continues... "Holy Lem! Karinthis must be a blast!"
Teko Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
"Simon does have a point. We ought to be careful how we conduct ourselves. We should have a clearer picture than we do of what Elgin is about before we start setting off any unnecessary fireworks."
Nonam Thursday January 14th, 1999 2:00:06 PM
"I've never really paid much attention to such things, but I would guess that while blue cloaks may not be as common as black or grey ones, they are still fairly common. Even so, these are well made. I doubt your average villager could afford them."
DM Monday January 18th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
Onrad has a blast shopping his cares away as the rest still confront Simon. As Gareth inspects the cloak, something falls out. It appears to be a medallion. Even before it strikes the ground, Simon is running down the street.
Tiburon Monday January 18th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
Tiburon follows Simon out into the street , stops and cast Hold Person upon the fleeing Simon.
Gareth Monday January 18th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
picks snatches the medallion before it has a chance to bounce twice. He then gives chase to Simon.
Jus Monday January 18th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
The innkeeper apparently wants to keep out of this, so Jus wanders back outside. With a heavy sign, he starts running in the direction of the others, "I thought this was supposed to be a vacation!"
Kat Monday January 18th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Still standing behind Simon, she attempts to trip him as he flees past her.
Onrad Monday January 18th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Onrad comes out of the store loaded with packages. He sees everyone running after Simon and shrugs looking worried. He lays his packages carefully near some of the crowd looking on and tosses a boy a few coins to watch the stuff. Then to everyone watching he says as he breaks into a run, "We're on vacation!" as if that explains everything.
Nonam Monday January 18th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
Seeing the situation under control, Nonam grabs Onrad's arm as he rushes by, "They can handle it. Let's go inside and have a drink."
DM Tuesday January 19th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
Simon effortlessly dodges Kat as he begins his run. Gareth manages to grab the medallion, but it takes him a second to give chase. Simon has a large lead, and Gareth is falling behind. Then Jus comes out and starts running, but he is too far behind. Then Tiburon's spell goes off, and Simon suddenly freezes in place.
Gareth Tuesday January 19th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
closes on Simon and says "Pretty impressive if you can outrun me. Start talking. Why are you running just because we found a medallian? Are you in trouble or are you part of something you don't want us to know about?"
Jus Tuesday January 19th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
Jus takes a look at the medallion to see if he recognizes it. "Is this the one Nonam or the tavern-keeper had?"
Tiburon Tuesday January 19th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
" Uhhh....Gareth, He won't be able to say anything until I release the spell or it wears off. Why don't you take him back to the Tavern , sit him in a chair and tie his feet . Then we can ask him some questions and Nonam can cast a Dispell Magic on him." says Tiburon between wheezes .
Teko Tuesday January 19th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Teko catches up with everyone chasing Simon and takes a look himself at the medallion.
Onrad Tuesday January 19th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Onrad looks incredulously at Nonam and says, "This is truly a wondrous day. I accept. Let me grab my stuff. He takes his stuff back from the person holding it and enters the tavern holding the door open for Nonam.
Nonam Tuesday January 19th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
Nonam goes in with Onrad and finds a table.
DM Wednesday January 20th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
The group around Simon see that the medallion isn't one familiar to them. Then they follow Tiburon's suggestion and carry him back to the tavern. When they go in, Onrad and Nonam pretend they don't see them standing in the doorway. Soon the "held" Simon is secured to a chair, and Tiburon releases his spell. Then Gareth repeats his question.
Simon Wednesday January 20th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
"I'd be a pretty poor thief if I couldn't outrun a man in armor. Just because you're strong doesn't mean that you're fast. What an ego this guy has! Anyway, I might as well tell you the whole story now though it's probably a mistake. This whole thing was a scam. I used that medallion to take control of your friend's mind the night we met. I just implanted the other memories when I did it. The women in the forest weren't my wife and daughter. I don't even know who they were. It was a coincidence they were even there. I didn't expect to find anyone. The idea was that your friend would collect taxes in Elgin's name and look imposing enough that he'd get the money. If Elgin's men caught him, he would remember nothing of me. Should all go well, he was going to leave the money here, and I was going to take it. Boy, you guys are so goooooood at figuring stuff out. Ready to charge in and fight Lords before you even have a good idea what you're doing. Just because you hear something that doesn't mean it's true. Where did you come from that everyone tells the truth and common folk think they can confront lords and order them about?"
Gareth Wednesday January 20th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
turns red with anger. He looks at the others and says "Turn him in. If left to dispense justice myself he will be dead! You almost cost our friend his life and you stole the freedom of another. You heard what I was prepared to do to Elgin! Just think of what I would do to you! And yes, you can outrun me but if I catch you, you have a problem."
Jus Wednesday January 20th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
"Thinking we'd attack Elgin without any evidence, then admitting you stole taxes from Elgin's subjects -- and in front of so many witnesses! I don't think we're the stupid ones!"
Onrad Wednesday January 20th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
After settling in, Onrad orders. "Pretty miss, bring us some of the good stuff. Spare no expense. I've made a new friend or two today and have another about to die. It's time to celebrate! Besides, we're on vacation and deserve it."
Teko Wednesday January 20th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Teko orders some milk, sits back with his feet propped, and takes a sip. "So, Simon, what other career avenues do see on the horizon?"
Nonam Wednesday January 20th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
Despite being determined to ignore the converation about Simon, Nonam feels compelled to ask "If you never saw those two women before then why did the youngest refer to you as daddy in the tavern the night we met you?"
Simon Thursday January 21st, 1999 1:59:59 PM
"Well, I guess you caught me again. Go ahead call the guards."
DM Thursday January 21st, 1999 2:00:00 PM
Gareth struggles with himself and manages not to behead Simon in the tavern. The guards quickly arrive and on hearing the story the guards, who are wearing blue, quickly take him away. Gareth follows to the door to make certain this isn't another trick and gains some small sense of satisfaction at the beating the guards give Simon once they're out in the street. Finally it's all over, and everything's back to normal. Everything that is except that the party is 10,000 gold richer, and Gareth is holding a medallion possessed of such evil that he can already feel it trying to corrupt him.
Nonam Thursday January 21st, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Come friends. Let's drink a toast to Onrad's return."
Gareth Thursday January 21st, 1999 2:00:02 PM
says in horrer "We must destroy this medallion now. Tiberion, any ideas? You seem to know a lot about religion and such. This thing is talking to me. Trying to get me to listen to it and do something evil.". He drops it in a small leather pouch and hold it out to Tiberion.
Jus Thursday January 21st, 1999 2:00:03 PM
"Not that I really know, and I don't, but the easiest would be to give it to a good and holy chuch and let them destroy it. Of course, we could always try to Dispel its Magic, but that would be difficult." "Then again," with a faraway look in his eyes, "I seem to remember something about purification by fire, but that doesn't make much sense, does it?" Realizing that he is rambling again, Jus decides to be quite. Of course this doesn't last for more than a few seconds, "Tib' would know better -- about the churches I mean. Oh yeah, cheers to Onrad; I knew he would come back. You are glad to see us aren't you? I mean, don't you think..." and on and on he goes lauding the return of Onrad.
Kat Thursday January 21st, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Kat walks up to Simon and stradles him across his lap, siting facing him. She then takes out a lip balmb and places a genrous amount on her lips. She then kisses Simon deeply and passionately. She then looks deeply into his eyes. "Simon, do you remember what I was going to do Onrad when I thought he had betrayrd you? Well I don't know you as well as I know all of these men. I have just delivered a witches posion to you, you will be dead in a matter of minutes, any last words?" (Simons lips begin to tingle, save vs posion)
DM Sunday January 24th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
Everyone laughs at Kat's suggestion and agree it would have been a good idea if Simon hadn't already been dragged off by the guards.
DM Sunday January 24th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
The group rejoices at Onrad's return, and the medallion, upon Jus's suggestion, is deposited with the local church of Alemi. The priest assures the group that he can destroy the item, and so they leave. The rest of the evening is spent as if this group of adventures were on vacation. After a late night, everyone retires to meet again at breakfast. By midmorning, the party stands assembled in the inn's common room. They all look like fierce and haggard adventurers save for their giant shoes. Everyone looks silly especially Onrad for his shoes are at least twice again as large as everyone else's.
Nonam Sunday January 24th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
"Gods, but all of you look stupid. Let's have some breakfast and then see what this Festival of... Shoes or whatever it they call it is all about."
Gareth Sunday January 24th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
looks troubled and after a time says "You know, I've been thinking about something. I felt how that medallian was really pulling at me. I wonder if Simon was nothing more than a victim of it's influence. I think those two women on the way here WERE his wife and daughter because they said so in their last words to him. I wish I was better at this sort of thing ..."
Jus Sunday January 24th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
Not liking the way Gareth's thoughts makes him feel, Jus looks down at his feet... and laughs. "Hey Onrad! I don't suppose you got big shoes to fulfill some inadequacy... uh, never mind. This sure is going to be a great day!" He looks around at the other patrons to compare shoes.
Kat Sunday January 24th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
Kat stands in her giand stilletos, "You know boys, the diffrence between you and me? I make this look good."
Teko Sunday January 24th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
"I don't feel inadequate. I do feel a bit mischevious, though. I have high hopes for the day."
DM Monday January 25th, 1999 1:59:59 PM
The festival is great fun. Yesterday's mud is dried and gone, and the sun shines brightly on everyone. There are clowns and games, and plenty of good food. Children scamper about and gawk at the most common things as if they were new and wonderful. Best of all are the big shoes. You all quickly discover what great fun it is to knock each other down to watch your companions struggle to rise to their feet without removing the giant shoes. Without doubt Onrad's shoes are the biggest at the festival, and when people see him the bow down to kiss his shoes. Then they buy him drinks. Soon all the trouble with lords, betrayal, and evil magic is banished to the backs of your minds. This indeed is a vacation. Toward the end of the day, a man who must serve a function similar to mayor hastily addresses the crowd, "Lord Elgin has just discovered some sort of illegal taxation scheme and has declared that we shall pay no more taxes this year as his way of repaying us." Most cheer at this news. The few who paid get a sour look though. Finally the happy day comes to an end. As the party returns to their inn, they find a sealed envelope addressed to the Three. Nonam opens it and reads aloud, "My thanks for helping me solve this problem. Keep the money as your reward. I'll make it up to those who lost. Maybe we shall meet some day. You are certainly welcome at my estate. -E."
Nonam Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:00 PM
Putting down the letter. "Everything seems to have worked out, and today was more fun than I've had in years. So what do you guys think? Should we continue on to Tincrow once the wagon's ready. Or should we avail ourselves of the noble's hospitality?"
Gareth Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:01 PM
Loosened up a bit after a fun day the tall and powerful warrior says "It might be good to leave I think. This way we can leave on a good note before anything bad happens. It will also leave us with a favor due us in the future if we need it. Do you guys want to split the money or would you prefer we put it all in the kitty? I would rather not carry it all but I will if need be."
Jus Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:02 PM
Relishing a day of relived boyhood, Jus considers Gareth's question "I vote the kitty. I have all I need at the moment. By the way, any of you win a shoe prize?"
Kat Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:03 PM
"I like the sugestion to give it to the Kitty, Meeeeow, purrrrr."
Teko Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:04 PM
"I think I have enough spending money for now. I vote for the kitty."
Tiburon Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:05 PM
" I vote the party kitty, " says Tiburon as he sits and relaxes.
Nonam Monday January 25th, 1999 2:00:06 PM
"In the pot it is. And I assume everyone wants to leave when the wagon's ready."
DM Tuesday January 26th, 1999 2:59:59 PM
Onrad informs Jus that he won a shoe prize, but he seems reluctant to talk about it. Then the group retires for the evening, and they lounge about in peace while enjoying free food and drink from the owner of the Empty Mug until the carriage is ready. The second day after the festival Gareth rises early and pays for the repairs out of the kitty. Soon the party is ready to leave and the wait at the bottom of the plateau. For those who have never seen the plateaus, it is an awesome site. The land just suddenly rises up hundreds of feet and then levels off again. A small lift carries people up and down the plateau. The line is relatively short, and soon the party is heading up the plateau. Gareth, Jus, and Nonam have done this once before, but everyone else must make a Con check to determine if they are afraid of heights. The party shares the lift with a family. The father, a friendly man named Jorl, tells you that they live just at the top at a farm near Baenville. Apparently they were in town for the festival and are now returning. Jorl introduces his family. He begins with his plump but pleasant wife Ayna. Next he introduces a daughter near 12 years of age named Natali. His son Jorl, Jr. is about 8 and looks full of mischief. He's also still wearing his giant shoes. Ayna is holding the last member of the family in her arms, a small infant named Melis.
Gareth Wednesday January 27th, 1999 2:59:59 PM
enjoys the sights. He grumbles every once in a while about all the "extra" weight he is carrying.
Jus Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:00 PM
With a deep bow and a kiss to their hands, "Ladies, I am pleased to meet your acquaintance." Turning to Jorl, Jr; Jus continues, "Whoa! Look at those shoes! Surely you must have won every prize that was offered! I am humbled to meet such a man as you."
Kat Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:01 PM
Kat leans WAY out over the edge. "This is SOOO cool!!"
Teko Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:02 PM
Teko takes in the surroundings and gazes at the horizon.
Nonam Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:03 PM
Nonam politely engages Jorl in conversation about his farm, and he asks questions about such things as what types of crops are grown in the region.
Onrad Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:04 PM
Onrad quietly sits himself crosslegged as close to the inner side of the lift as he can and without saying anything to anyone does two things: first, he gets out his rope and ties himself to the lift; and second, pulls a hood over his head so he can't see.
DM Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:05 PM
After looking over the edge, Kat suddenly feels queasy and thinks Onrad might have the right idea. No one else seems effected.
DM Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:06 PM
Jorl seems eager to talk about his farm and rattles away to Nonam. Ayna smiles as if she realizes that Nonam is just being nice. She also winks at Jus when he praises Junior. For his part, Junior beams with pride, but apparently the lad needs more praise. Pretty soon he's dancing around, and then he's dancing on the ropes. Before anyone can stop him he's climbed to the top guard rope. Then the lad slips. The boy manages to catch hold of the bottom of the lift, but Ayna screams and it scares him even more. Jus lunges at him, but he isn't fast enough. The boy slips, and he cries like a madman as he plummets to the earth.
DM Wednesday January 27th, 1999 3:00:07 PM
There isn't a lot of time to save the boy. Everyone tell me what you do, and I'll decide who's plan works best. Think of it as a contest to see who gets to be the hero.
Gareth Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:29:59 PM
When the boy falls off the ropes Gareth dives for the boy. He reaches for the rope above him with one arm and attempts to grab the boy with his othe before he begins to plummet.
Jus Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:00 PM
Jus, thankful he got the spell from Nonam yesterday, casts Fly and dives after the boy (36 move rate).
Nonam Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:01 PM
Nonam walks over to the edge and casts featherfall.
Kat Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:02 PM
Kat throws up, or helps Gareth, whichever one she can.
Teko Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:03 PM
Teko stands ready to cast an appropriate Feather Fall if the others' plans somehow do not succeed.
Onrad Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:04 PM
Onrad, hearing the scream, immediately jumps after the boy, already being tied to the platform by a rope. He has a terrified look on his face that reads, "I knew this would happen. It always happens and I hates it." He reaches straining for the boy trying to overcome his own "voices" that say he's gonna die in a moment. Reaching, straining, grabbing...
DM Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:05 PM
What a team! Gareth leaps at the boy and nabs his fingers just long enough to allow Jus to cast his spell. Then the boy's small hand slips from Gareth's grasp. But now Jus flies down after him. Jus gets under the boy and slows his fall, but finds that he weighs too much to carry back up, and the two slowly sink. Then Nonam's spell goes off, and Jus is able to hold him in place. something about the nature of the "featherfall" and "fly" spells, however, keep Jus from being able to lift the boy. Then Onrad comes flying over the edge. Fortunately his rope holds, and Jus passes the boy over to him. And they began to climb up the rope with Jus flying underneath as a safety net of sorts. Meanwhile, Gareth's momentum carries him over the edge, but Teko is ready with his spell. Gareth drifts slowly away from the lift. Kat hurled her breakfast over the edge, but then she feels much better. So she grabs hold of Gareth and pulls him back into the lift. Just as everything seemed to be perfectly under control, Onrad realizes that he's hanging by a rope from a great height, and he freezes up. Fortunately Gareth is back in the lift, and he is able to haul the two up the rest of the way. Nonam, Kat, and Teko put in a good show of pulling on the ropes, but they don't really help much. Finally after what seems like hours, but was really only minutes, everyone is aboard. Jorl begins clapping people on the back and shaking hands murmuring "thankyouthankyouthankyou," and Ayna rushes to hold her son. Feeling a little left out Natali eyes the edge herself, but a swat from Jorl quickly changes her mind. Once everyone has regained composure, Jorl asks, "How may we ever repay you?"
DM (7/29 8:30) Thursday January 28th, 1999 3:30:06 PM
As Jorl is asking his question everyone hears a shout from the lift down below. It's Tiburon who decided to ride with the horses. "I would have caught him! but good job anyway!"
Gareth Sunday January 31st, 1999 2:59:59 PM
says "There is no payment necessary. We were glad we could be of service."
Jus Sunday January 31st, 1999 3:00:00 PM
"Yes, as our companion Gareth states, we are always glad to help. Besides, it was fun!" Before any of the kids get more ideas he adds, "Although I certainly hope it doesn't happen again! We hope our vacation to Tincrow is a bit more relaxing."
Teko Sunday January 31st, 1999 3:00:01 PM
"All in all a nice training exercise."
Onrad Sunday January 31st, 1999 3:00:02 PM
Onrad mumbles, "W'lcome," and ties a double knot in his rope. He glances down one more time, shivers, once again sits in the middle of the lift, and covers his head with his hood trying to forget he's doing this. "He whispers to Jus, "Friend, next time we do this, please cast Sleep or somethin' on me first, 'k? This puts a whole new meaning on Ursis' new song 'Plateau City High'"
Nonam Sunday January 31st, 1999 3:00:03 PM
Nonam, obviously not up on his music, stares questioningly at Onrad as he speaks to Jorl, "We couldn't have you losing such a fine worker."
Jorl Sunday January 31st, 1999 3:00:04 PM
"Will you at least accept dinner and a night's lodging? Ayna is a fantastic cook, and our farm is on the way to Tincrow. You simply must say yes, eh?"
Gareth Monday February 1st, 1999 2:59:59 PM
"We'd be honored. Good food and company is always a welcome thing."
Nonam Monday February 1st, 1999 3:00:00 PM
"Sounds fine to me."
Kat Monday February 1st, 1999 3:00:01 PM
Kat bounces up, we would be delighted to stay, but only if yur wife will give Onrad some cooking tips, his morning gruel is simply AWFUL!!"
Onrad Monday February 1st, 1999 3:00:02 PM
"Kat, I've got your morning gruel right here. Here Kitty Kat......" Onrad catches Kat, spins her around and plants a big wet kiss on her lips. "If I remember right, I think I owed you one." Then suddenly Onrad pulls away embarrassed, and turns red as a pimento. He seems to have totally forgotten about being on the lift for the moment. He shakes his head to clear it, staring at Kat for a moment.
Jus Monday February 1st, 1999 3:00:03 PM
Jus laughes. "It's good to have you back, Onrad. We were getting bored without your presence. Jorl, I'd be honored to partake of your hospitality."
DM Monday February 1st, 1999 3:00:04 PM
The lift soon reaches the top. Tiburon states that he must see to some duties in the local church and promises to meet back up with the group on the road. The rest of the band begins the trek to Jorl's farm. It doesn't take long to arrive, and the place is located a few miles from Baenville's fort and is near the monster preserve, but Jorl says the local soldiers manage to keep everything in check and there are rarely any problems with monsters. The farm house is a two story place with a wide porch. It looks as if Jorl built it himself. The man certainly must be industrious. Soon everyone is inside and Ayna disappears. Almost immediately wonderful smells begin to waft from the kitchen. Jorl sets the kids to unloading your carriage and invites everyone else to sit down with him. Promptly dinner is served. Everyone goes to the kitchen and crowds around a table designed for half the number and chairs are rounded up from around the house. Once the arrangements are made, Jorl finds himself sitting on a box, but the party has been given the family's best chairs. Conversation in dinner covers many topics but perhaps lingers longest on the children's questions about Nonam's strange appearance. After an excellent meal of some sort of meaty stew and homemade ale, the group sits down in a the family room where the accomodations are better suited to the large group. Jorl takes out a pipe and begins to puff away while Ayna puts the infant to bed. The other children managed to plead their way into staying up to talk with the visitors.
Jorl Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 2:59:59 PM
After taking a long pull on his pipe, "So what do you all plan to do in Tincrow? I wouldn't have thought it would be a hotspot for tourists."
Teko Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:00 PM
"We're after vacation and rest...and maybe a little of the unexpected."
Nonam Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:01 PM
Nonam looks at Onrad as if he should answer that question and moves over to the children. He tells them he has something to show them, and then he begins to cast a spell. Suddenly an illusion of a miniature red dragon appears. He shows it rolling in the sky, but then the image turns dark. The dragon swoops toward a town and begins to burn buildings down, but then two children come out. One is Jorl and the other is Natali. Using wooden swords they fight the dragon and send it packing with its tail between it's legs. Then the illusion winks out and Nonam sits back in his chair with sweat pouring from his brow.
Gareth Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:02 PM
enjoys the company and reflects on what things might be going on back home. "This place really reminds me of MY home. I really must thank you for your hospitality."
Jus Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:03 PM
"'A little of the unexpected'? Quite an understatement. But yes, our faithful Navigator, Onrad, always seems to know where we need to be. And Tincrow it the blessed spot this time."
Onrad Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:04 PM
Looking strangely at Nonam and wondering something, he is snatched from his reverie by the comments of Jus. "Me? Navigator? Lem' I hope not. I just read chairs." He looks again at Nonam. "You ok, Nom? You had a look on your face that seemed like you were actually battling that dragon."
Nonam Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:05 PM
"I'm fine. The illusion was rather complicated and took a good bit of effort."
DM Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:06 PM
Of course it can't all be easy...
DM Tuesday February 2nd, 1999 3:00:07 PM
At that moment, some strange noises akin to otherworldly voices are heard outside, then suddenly something crashes through the window. With dread each of you realize, it's a huge goblin. It rolls to it's feet and holds out a wicked looking blade. The thing is curved and serrated and dripping the blood of what was probably a farm animal. There's no time to react before more smaller goblins come pouring through the other windows, and more are trying to break down the door. Moving as if he had long drilled his family for this moment, Jorl orders the children upstairs and tells Natali to sound the horn. They flee. Anya picks up a knife that was stuck in a block of cheese they brought in for eating after dinner and stands guard on the stairs. Jorl fetches a sword from over the mantle. He can obviously use it. About fifteen goblins have swarmed into the room, but there are obviously more outside. The small ones have AC5. The big one AC3.
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