Subject: Limited

I've got very limited 'net access for the next few days myself. I'm tryign to read through the many (many) D&D messages that're sitting in my emailbox. I'll try to get something out soon.
From: Mark

Subject: Treasure

I will assume that in a period of a couple of days that Ally would identify the items recovered while on the adventure. The order will supply the pearls needed. I will also list the approx. value of each item

Here is the list:

4 +1 greatswords (2,350 gp each for a total of 9,400 gp)

1 +2 flaming axe (18,310 gp)

1 +2 light mace(8,305 gp)

4 +1 chain shirts (1,250 each for a total of 5,000 gp)

1 +2 chain shirt (4,250 gp)

1 +1 Human bane dagger (8,300 gp)

1 non magic chalice (art item, value approx. 5,000 gp)

Total value is 58,565. Divided by 8, each persons share is 7,300 approx.

The order's offer of help with stuff is worth up to 5,000 gp per character.

What this means is that a character can buy up to 5,000 worth of services etc.

Let me know how you want to split up the magic items? What gets sold? Who gets what? What each character will trade/sell. If you are selling an item I will work out a price.

Magic weapons and armor can be done upgraded at the Chapter House for a reduced fee. All other magic items must be picked up in the city. You can contact me to get the prices and then role play the selling/buying of the items.

If there are any questions let me know.

Subject: Bane

What exactly does a human bane dagger do?
From: Bryan

Subject: Check in

Gah. Check. (sent to single person instead of list about twice in a row ;)
From: Kevin

Subject: Bane

A Bane weapon has an enchantment on it that makes it more effective against a particular race/monster. In this case, it is against humans. The bane enchanment means that against humans it acts as an enchantment 2 levels higher than it normally is (+3 vs. +1 in this case), as well as doing and extra 2d6 of damage. If Surin were to do a sneak attack against a human with this dagger, he would do his normal d4, + 2d6 for bane,, +4d6 of sneak attack damage. It is a cool benefit, but it only gains this extra stuff against 1 type of creature.
From: Josh

Subject: Treasure

Kal's not interested in any of the treasure we picked up, but he would like his share of the gold to purchase a new sword and possibly some spells. If he needs to take some items and sell them he's glad to do it.

I'm back :).

Subject: The next adventure

Well since getting the gem took a little while longer than I had planned, I will be starting the next adventure next Monday, Aug. 20. This week people can write up their leveling stories and do any role playing around town. If you want me to role play the merchant/person you are dealing with that is fine with me.

On a sort of related note, as some of you know, Mike at Sakeriver has moved his site to a new server. It looks like he has not moved the character sheets or the archives over yet. He will be out of town this week so it will be next week at the earliest before this happens. I am fairly sure that this means we will not have access to the character sheets until next week.
From: Randy

Subject: Upgrades

Mark,

What are the options for upgrading weapons/armor?

What would it cost to add a +1 to a weapon or armor?
From: Mark

Subject: Upgrades

The price is different between armor and weapons.

To go from +1 armor to +2 goes like this.

+1 armor cost 1,000 gp

+2 armor cost 4,000 gp

Difference 3,000 gp. X 3/4 the cost = 2,2250 to go from +1 to +2 armor.

Weapons are a bit more.

+1 bonus weapon is 2,000 gp

+2 bonus weapon is 8,000 gp

difference is 6,000 gp X 3/4 the cost = 4,500 gp to go from +1 to +2 bonus weapon.

Please note that you can add effects to weapons, such as frost or fire etc. For example Munds frost axe has a +1 bonus to hit and damge but the frost feature, which adds 1D6 damage, counts as another +1. So Munds axe is considered to be a +2 weapon for cost.

The flaming axe, +2 flame, counts as a +3 weapon.

I hope this makes sense.
From: Josh

Subject: Upgrades

How much does it cost to add one of those 1d6 effects?
From: Mark

Subject: Upgrades

For the most part the same as adding a +1 for the echantment bonus.

Here is the link to the SRD for magic weapons and armor.

http://www.wizards.com/d20/files/v35/MagicItemsII.rtf

If you have any questions in detail let me know.
From: Mark

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

The trip home is, for the most part, uneventful. One night, about a fortnight into the journey, the party, except for Kal who is on guard duty, is sound asleep in camp. The fire had been banked and the horses tethered to a picket line 50 yards distant. The night was clear and the stars and the moons were out. Kal, on third watch, slowly makes his rounds, the plentiful light of the moons and stars letting him see almost like it was daytime. The ground is grassy and soft with the occasional tree or bush. Kal hardly makes a noise as he moves slowly around the camp, maybe 25 yards out from where the others are sleeping. He can hear Harp's loud snoring and Ragnar's steady, deep breathing. Mund, off a bit by himself, seems to be sleeping fitfully, which he has done most nights since they left the woods.

It takes Kal a few seconds to realize that he has just heard something. He tries to pinpoint it source but something is not right. It is coming from the middle of the camp. Kal starts hurrying to the camp. As he closes he sees a large hulking figure in the light of the fire. It looks like a bear has made it way into the middle of the camp. It lets out a bellow of rage and the rest of the camp starts awake at the noise.

OODM: What do you guys want to do?
From: Kevin

Subject: Harp's time off

After the meeting with Angelwing,Harp says farewell to his friends and lets them know that he would get back in touch with them in a week or so. As Harp heads back to his quarters at the Chapter House, Angelwing motions him over. "Sergant, report to my office tomorrow morning right after morning prayer. I will debrief you then". Saluting in reply, Harp heads off to his room.

Arriving a few minutes later, Harp shrugs off his armor, unslings his weapons, and heads off to the baths. Twenty minutes later, feeling refreshed and phsically cleansed, he dons his cleric robes and heads back to the main part of the Chapter House. Moving to the chappel, he sees that it is empty, which is not surprising given the time of day.

Kneeling down on the hard wood, Harp goes through the basic prayers of the Order. His mind calming, he reflects on the recent journey. He slowly goes over what had happened, focusing on his actions. Angelwing would be reviwing his decisions, and he would have to answer for them. For the most part, he had done the Order proud, with the exception of the night he had tried to sneak out and find Thanga.

That had not only almost cost him his life, but it had almost cost Kal his. It had not been a mistake in battle, it had not been a mistake honestly made, it had been a mistake based on his physical desires, even when he had been warned about the dangers of Bodentown after dark. He would have to own up to that the following day. He thoguht carefully about his position within the group. This had been Salix's adventure to lead, but Harp kept finding himself giving orders before being asked to do so. He had become proud - more confident in his abiltiy to decide - maybe too confident. Granted, he had training from the military side of the Order, and when it came to a fight, he had a decent head for using what advantages they had while keeping thier weaknesses as well protected as possible. He would have to talk to Angelwing about that in the morning.

After about an hour or so of more prayer and introspection, Harp leaves the chapel and heads back to his room. He pulls out his sword and armor and starts the long, slow process of repairing and mending the nicks, cuts, gouges, and other wear and tear that had accumulated over the past weeks. He could use some of the basic graces of the Battlelord, and if needed, he would do so, but there was something simply pleasing about doing this work by hand. Finally, after a couple of hours more, and a quick bite from the kitchen, he heads back to his room for a good nights sleep.

OOC: I will write more tomorrow.
From: Kevin

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

Harp tries to get up and get his sword out. I do not know if he has been sleeping in his armor.

He will not attack the bear, since he hopes it will go away.
From: Karl

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

Salix will tell everyone not to hurt the bear.

(ooc) can Salix get a check of some sort to see if he notices anything unusual?
From: Porter

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

Mund hears the shouting and lumbers over to see what's making the noise.
From: Mark

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

He notices that the bear is a black bear. This is not really the normal habitat for the black bear.

Subject: The next adventure

Well since getting the gem took a little while longer than I had planned, I will be starting the next adventure next Monday, Aug. 20. This week people can write up their leveling stories and do any role playing around town. If you want me to role play the merchant/person you are dealing with that is fine with me.

On a sort of related note, as some of you know, Mike at Sakeriver has moved his site to a new server. It looks like he has not moved the character sheets or the archives over yet. He will be out of town this week so it will be next week at the earliest before this happens. I am fairly sure that this means we will not have access to the character sheets until next week.
From: Randy

Subject: Upgrades

Mark,

What are the options for upgrading weapons/armor?

What would it cost to add a +1 to a weapon or armor?
From: Mark

Subject: Upgrades

The price is different between armor and weapons.

To go from +1 armor to +2 goes like this.

+1 armor cost 1,000 gp

+2 armor cost 4,000 gp

Difference 3,000 gp. X 3/4 the cost = 2,2250 to go from +1 to +2 armor.

Weapons are a bit more.

+1 bonus weapon is 2,000 gp

+2 bonus weapon is 8,000 gp

difference is 6,000 gp X 3/4 the cost = 4,500 gp to go from +1 to +2 bonus weapon.

Please note that you can add effects to weapons, such as frost or fire etc. For example Munds frost axe has a +1 bonus to hit and damge but the frost feature, which adds 1D6 damage, counts as another +1. So Munds axe is considered to be a +2 weapon for cost.

The flaming axe, +2 flame, counts as a +3 weapon.

I hope this makes sense.
From: Josh

Subject: Upgrades

How much does it cost to add one of those 1d6 effects?
From: Mark

Subject: Upgrades

For the most part the same as adding a +1 for the echantment bonus.

Here is the link to the SRD for magic weapons and armor.

http://www.wizards.com/d20/files/v35/MagicItemsII.rtf

If you have any questions in detail let me know.
From: Mark

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

The trip home is, for the most part, uneventful. One night, about a fortnight into the journey, the party, except for Kal who is on guard duty, is sound asleep in camp. The fire had been banked and the horses tethered to a picket line 50 yards distant. The night was clear and the stars and the moons were out. Kal, on third watch, slowly makes his rounds, the plentiful light of the moons and stars letting him see almost like it was daytime. The ground is grassy and soft with the occasional tree or bush. Kal hardly makes a noise as he moves slowly around the camp, maybe 25 yards out from where the others are sleeping. He can hear Harp's loud snoring and Ragnar's steady, deep breathing. Mund, off a bit by himself, seems to be sleeping fitfully, which he has done most nights since they left the woods.

It takes Kal a few seconds to realize that he has just heard something. He tries to pinpoint it source but something is not right. It is coming from the middle of the camp. Kal starts hurrying to the camp. As he closes he sees a large hulking figure in the light of the fire. It looks like a bear has made it way into the middle of the camp. It lets out a bellow of rage and the rest of the camp starts awake at the noise.

OODM: What do you guys want to do?
From: Kevin

Subject: Harp's time off

After the meeting with Angelwing,Harp says farewell to his friends and lets them know that he would get back in touch with them in a week or so. As Harp heads back to his quarters at the Chapter House, Angelwing motions him over. "Sergant, report to my office tomorrow morning right after morning prayer. I will debrief you then". Saluting in reply, Harp heads off to his room.

Arriving a few minutes later, Harp shrugs off his armor, unslings his weapons, and heads off to the baths. Twenty minutes later, feeling refreshed and phsically cleansed, he dons his cleric robes and heads back to the main part of the Chapter House. Moving to the chappel, he sees that it is empty, which is not surprising given the time of day.

Kneeling down on the hard wood, Harp goes through the basic prayers of the Order. His mind calming, he reflects on the recent journey. He slowly goes over what had happened, focusing on his actions. Angelwing would be reviwing his decisions, and he would have to answer for them. For the most part, he had done the Order proud, with the exception of the night he had tried to sneak out and find Thanga.

That had not only almost cost him his life, but it had almost cost Kal his. It had not been a mistake in battle, it had not been a mistake honestly made, it had been a mistake based on his physical desires, even when he had been warned about the dangers of Bodentown after dark. He would have to own up to that the following day. He thoguht carefully about his position within the group. This had been Salix's adventure to lead, but Harp kept finding himself giving orders before being asked to do so. He had become proud - more confident in his abiltiy to decide - maybe too confident. Granted, he had training from the military side of the Order, and when it came to a fight, he had a decent head for using what advantages they had while keeping thier weaknesses as well protected as possible. He would have to talk to Angelwing about that in the morning.

After about an hour or so of more prayer and introspection, Harp leaves the chapel and heads back to his room. He pulls out his sword and armor and starts the long, slow process of repairing and mending the nicks, cuts, gouges, and other wear and tear that had accumulated over the past weeks. He could use some of the basic graces of the Battlelord, and if needed, he would do so, but there was something simply pleasing about doing this work by hand. Finally, after a couple of hours more, and a quick bite from the kitchen, he heads back to his room for a good nights sleep.

OOC: I will write more tomorrow.
From: Kevin

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

Harp tries to get up and get his sword out. I do not know if he has been sleeping in his armor.

He will not attack the bear, since he hopes it will go away.
From: Karl

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

Salix will tell everyone not to hurt the bear.

(ooc) can Salix get a check of some sort to see if he notices anything unusual?
From: Porter

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

Mund hears the shouting and lumbers over to see what's making the noise.
From: Mark

Subject: Something goes growl in the night

He notices that the bear is a black bear. This is not really the normal habitat for the black bear.

Subject: Stories

Not the title, I'm just trying to figure out how Mund's doing what he's doing.

It's one of the few times that I've actually been confused while Kal was. It's kinda cool, and kinda frustrating.
From: Mark

Subject: Stories

Guys

You know this week is when you can do your leveling stories for the month or so that you are in Gorn. I know Bryan is busy and we can get to his later.

Karl has done his and Porter is doing his now. Kevin is in the middle. Josh, Jason, Derek and Randy?
From: Kevin

Subject: Stories

I think we need to decide how to split up the booty. If Mund wants the flaming axe, he and Allistair are going to have to give up their portion of not only what we brought back, but a portion of what we have to work with from the order.
From: Derek

Subject: Stories

Well, Ally owes Mund 750 gp or so, but that's small change compared to the amounts we're dealing with. Ally just needs enough to cover his new spells and a 1000 gp mirror for Scrying, and maybe a few hundred more for some Snake Sigils. He'd also like some magical armor in the form of a cloak or a robe, but he can live without it if need be.

I'll try and get Ally's level story in this week.
From: Karl

Subject: Stories

Salix will take the offer of reduced cost enchantment for his leather armor, taking special care to ensure the procedure won't damage the holy symbol embossed on it. He will also obtain a masterwork sling (if he doesn't already have one, I can't check right now) and see about getting that enchanted, too. He'll go for the highest level he can bargain for with the gold he has.
From: Jason

Subject: Stories

I do intend to write up a story, but its been a busy week; my final presentation for all the work I've done here over the summer was moved from next Friday to Monday, which means I need to do all the work in one week I was planning to do in two. I do expect to have enough free time over the weekend to write it up before next week.
From: Kevin

Stories

Well, this was what Mark wrote a short while ago.

+1 greatswords (2,350 gp each for a total of 9,400 gp)

1 +2 flaming axe (18,310 gp)

1 +2 light mace(8,305 gp)

4 +1 chain shirts (1,250 each for a total of 5,000 gp)

1 +2 chain shirt (4,250 gp)

1 +1 Human bane dagger (8,300 gp)

1 non magic chalice (art item, value approx. 5,000 gp)

Total value is 58,565. Divided by 8, each persons share is 7,300 approx.

The order's offer of help with stuff is worth up to 5,000 gp per character.

What this means is that a character can buy up to 5,000 worth of services etc.

So each character has about 12,300 gp of value to work with, assuming we SELL everything.

If Mund wants to keep the 18,000 g.p. axe (and he probably should), it will mean that between he and Ally they would have 6,600 gold to spend on other items. Of course, Mund could seel his frost axe and get some of those money back.

I just want to make sure the Mark does not ding us when our characters go to buy something special.
From: Derek

Subject: Stories

Surin might be interested in keeping the dagger too. That would be some wicked backstab against other humans.
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

Mund's not going to go for the flaming axe. It's just too darn expensive, and he can get a bigger bang for his buck with other stuff.
From: Kevin

Subject: Stories

Well, he does not have to buy it directly. He would just have to give up his portion (and some of Ally's) of the rest of the booty. Of course, you can sell the axe at face value, and then get your current axe upgraded for a 25% discount by the Order. That actually makes GREAT sense.
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

I've got some other things to buy that I think will be of more value to Mund for the price than an extra +1 on his axe.
From: Randy

Subject: Stories

OOC: I probably won't get much of a write up done this week. My computer is causing some problems and I have had the sys admin working on it all day yesterday and he will probably be doing more in the next day or two.

Mark, is Ranthir's father completely healthy now or is there still lingering sickness?
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

OOC: Somebody throw me a bone, here!
From: Mark

Subject: Stories

His father seems to be recovered from the poison, however it seems to have had a lasting effect on his overall health, if that makes sense.

It is like an older person recovering from a serious illness. They are technically over the illness but their overall level of health has permantly decreased.
From: Jason

Subject: Stories

Ragnar sees Salix approach Mund and embrace him, but he remains wary. Salix probably found such things natural, but Ragnar wondered if there was some malicious magic at work. That bear hadn't seemed very friendly until Salix calmed it down; what if Mund had been cursed?

"Umm... I'm not... Mund, you turned into a bear. Do you really have no idea what happened? Have you, I don't know, picked up anything new recently? Did you take anything out of Faldor's estate you didn't bring in?" Ragnar suddenly stops, realizing he isn't handling this very well and he might worry or confuse Mund even more than he already is..
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

"I turned into a bear? Now I know this is a joke."

But Mund's companions convince him that this is no joke.

"So, y'all saw me turn into a bear and back into a person?" Mund looks up at the moon. "Like that werewolf y'all told me about?"
From: Derek

Subject: Stories

Allistair speaks up. "Sure enough there was a black bear right where you are, and when Salix calmed it down it turned into you. You've been talking about bears and such for a while, Mund. Even asking me about those stories and myths from our tribe. You had never expressed any interest in that kind of thing before, but I guess I can see why now. If we ever go back to our tribal lands, we should definately ask old Getorix more about these warriors from our clan who become bears. Unless you've somehow contracted lycanthropy, my guess is that the old stories are true, and that you're the first from our tribe in several generations."

"Salix, is it possible he has lycanthropy? I have little experience with such diseases, but I know of their existence."
From: Mark

Subject: Stories

OODM: Porter may be trying to make this point but I want to make sure.

No one saw Mund turn INTO the bear. They all saw a BEAR turn into Mund.

It could be a werehuman. :)
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

Werehuman. :lol:
From: Josh

Subject: Stories

"Did that Barbarians wolf bite you?"
From: Porter

Subject: STories

"No it didn't. He nearly gutted me like a fish with that axe of his, but his critter never touched me."
From: Kevin

Subject: Stories

Harp shifts a bit in the chair. He had been in trouble before, so this was not new to him. He had come to learn that owning up to a mistake was generally less uncomfortable than not. He would still be punished, but hopefully not a severely as if he had tried to hide his actions.

"Sergeant, you've'e done well, even though I am concerned with the last part you told me. I'm going to have to think about this. As for the rest - go see the armorer and the quartermaster. Explain to them the issues you are having. They may have some suggestions. In the mean time, for the next few weeks, I want you to go back and focus on your training. Try to combine the strength of Hieronious with your strength. Use the strength of good to power you when you fight evil.

Now go, prepare yourself for what is to come. I will make some inquiries and call you back in a week or so."

With that comment, Harp rises from his chair, give Angelwing a sharp salute, and heads to the door. Leaving the office behind, he goes toward the main part of the Chapterhouse, out into the courtyard, and over to the armorer. A brief discussion ensues as to how to help the 1/2 orc when in battle. The armorer offers some suggestions, though Harp is unsure of which option to choose. (OOC: guys, I don't' know whether to get a keen edge on the blade, or make it an energy blade (flaming, frost, sonic, etc.). Suggestions???). After a while, Harp heads to the quartermasters office. After describing what he had encountered on the past journey, the man informs Harp there there are items available, but that they were not things the Order normally kept. Maybe he could find them in town. Writing down a few names, he sends Harp on his way.

Down in the town, Harp searches out the shops the Quartermaster had mentioned. Inside, the proprietor listens to Harp request, and replies "Why, I think I have just the things. Come over here.

See, this fine cloak? It is specially designed to help heighten the senses of your body. You'll be able to respond quicker, control your mind better. All in all, an excellent addition to any adventures wardrobe.

And over here is a nifty little thing. See, on the outside, it looks just like a normal knapsack. But, watch."

With that, the store keep starts putting things into one pouch of the backpack. Then more, then even more. Its as if the bag was swallowing up everything placed in it. A look of wonder comes over Harp's face. "How does is do that?" he asks.

"Well, have you every heard of a Bag of Holding??" Seeing Harp nod in agreement, the man continues. "Well, this is sort of like that, except it can't hold as much, and things have to be spread out between the pouches. But, this has one great feature - what ever you put in there, if you think about it when you go to get it out, its on top. No searching through all the things in there. And, it never weighs more than 5 pounds."

"I'll take it" says Harp. His mind is racing. He would never be without that one small item they would need in the future. Grappling hook? Check, extra rope? Check, Tent? Check, Hammer? Check. "I'll take it along with the cloak" Adding up the cost, Harp cringes a bit. It is almost 1/3 of the rewards he had gotten from the journey, but these were truly useful things. I hope I have enough to cover what the armorer is going to charge me, he thinks to himself as he walks back to the Chapterhouse.

OOC: I will write some more tonight
From: Karl

Subject: Stories

"Don't worry," Salix says. "Mund's people have a special history of this. Granted, it's rare, but that just shows how much Mund has been blessed." He turns to Mund.

"Mund, I'm so happy for you. You'll have to work to control yourself, and maybe I can help there. I'm not sure if this works in the same way my wildshaping does, but I'd love to help you try."
From: Karl

Subject: Stories

"I doubt it's lycanthropy, Ally," Salix says. "Lycanthropes, at least the new ones, tend to show an insane rage when they take the form. Mund just seemed confused as a bear. Out of place, so to speak. He'll get used to it I'm sure."

"Mund, when you can control this we'll have to wrassle again, bear to bear."
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

"Yeah, I've been dreaming about turning into a bear a lot lately. I thought it was just because we were spending so much time with the druids."

"You know how I can get a lot stronger when I fight? Well, in my dreams, I only turned into a bear when rage like that. Maybe they're related. Gimme a sec."

Mund thinks of something to get mad at -- this time, he chooses himself for not lifting a finger to help save the Northmen from Faldor.

Mund lets out bellow as is common for him when he enters combat, but it sounds even less human this time than it usually does. His thick body hair seems grow thicker and his legs shorter. But before they can be sure of what they saw, it changes back and it's just Mund standing before them, muscles rippling. He looks down at his hands, sees that they're just normal human hands, and lets himself relax.

"Well, that didn't work.", he says with disappointment.
From: Josh

Subject: Stories

"Mund, go stand outside the ring of light here and try that again."
From: Porter

Subject: Stories

"I'd appreciate that, Salix. That sounds like a good idea. If nothin' else, I wanna learn to control this so that don't have to keep patching up my bedroll."

Salix says "Mund, when you can control this we'll have to wrassle again, bear to bear."

"That sounds even better! I've been wanting to wrassle you again ever since I saw that you can turn into a bigger bear than I wrassled before."

OOC: To fill you guys in on what's happening, I'm taking a level of Bear Warrior for Mund. It's a prestige class that allows Mund to turn into a bear whenever he rages.
From: Josh

Subject: Stories

OOC: Awesome choice man. It works really well w/ the campaign.
From: Kevin

Subject: Stories

OOC: Retcon - Harp's two purchases will take up about 1/2 of his gold. He purchased a Cloak of Resistance +2 and a Heward Handy Haversack.
From: Derek

Subject: Stories

After the group makes their report to Angelwing and gets settled in Gorn, Allistair goes to see Kal. "Since we have some time here to recuperate for a few weeks, I was wondering if you would like to come to the mage guild to study some magic. If you're interested in expanding your spellbook it's a good place to study. Also if you're interested in learning some spells from my spellbook I'd be more than happy to let you look at it."

OOC: Character sheets are down still, so we'll have to wait before Kal and Ally start sharing spells.

Allistair hopes that Kal isn't too put off by his assertive friendliness. Past experience had shown that Kal could be touchy at times, but since that unfortunate trial last time they were in the chapterhouse, Kal had been extremely dependable and level-headed.

Ally has a couple of new spells in mind that he wants to research. While they were infiltrating Faldor's compound, Allistair used some of his most powerful magic to take the form of Osk, the priest of Nerull that the group had interrogated and killed. The magic was wonderfully successful, but in later analysis Allistair felt that the use of magic had been somewhat wasted. That powerful charm enabled himself or someone else to take the form of nearly any creature, even those magical in nature. Surely there was a way to make less dramatic changes without using so much of his magical energy. After speaking to a wizard that was skilled in various illusions, he finds an explanation of the magic he was looking for. This would be a great addition to his spellbook.

Allistair also thought he should learn another spell, just to broaden his repertoire. In doing some general research, he finds that there is a class of powerful magic that actually channels elemental matter from one of the various elemental demiplanes. These can take the form of a wall or other simple shapes until the magic dissipates. Ally decides that he will learn to summon a wall made from ice.

Once he has the necessary silver ink and his silver pen, Allistair needs several days alone for meditation to learn how to weave the magic magical flows in his mind, and then write them in a magical script that will allow him to remember and create the necessary flows so that he can release the magic when he wishes.

Subject: Kal's time off

Kal looks at Allistar and smiles "Definitely. It would do us good to learn from each other." Kal had never studied magic with Humans before, and he imagined it would be an interesting experience.

When he walks into the Chapter house he's immediately surprised by the atmosphere. In the elven lands magic is considered nearly religious in nature, whereas here it seems more of a science. Much like the difference between a cathedral and a library, both are silent, but with a very different energy.

Allistar introduces Kal to a few of the mages and points him in the direction of the tomes appropriate to Kal's power before excusing himself to his own studies.

Looking at the wall of books, Kal feels impatience rise in him; there was much to be done in their short time here. Kal could feel an tenseness in his body, he was close to something and he was eager to explore it. Kal begins to dread the arduousness of his studies.

"Calm, patience." Kal thinks to himself as he calms his mind and body. He embraces his impatience and waits for it to pass. Physical training would come soon enough, he must tend to his mind as well. He waits until his thoughts are his to control before browsing the shelves. To do otherwise would be reckless and potentially dangerous. From the passing sunlight it would seem he had sat for nearly two hours before moving onto his studies.

More time passes as Kal reads over the spells available. Some of the tombs are older than the building they're in, seemingly preserved by the magic they contain. The descriptions written by earlier mages vary widely in language and style. It's difficult to compare the effects of different spells because of the wide variety of contributing authors.

One spell in particular draws Kal's attention. The description, written in thin spidery letters, is only a short poem:

"The wind, the ground, the sun, the sound,

All together; breathing, dancing.

I see, I move, I hear, I know,

Time around me; sliding, slowing."

Intrigued, but without any other clues, he turns to the ancient language of the spell itself. Like a flower unfolding, more reveals itself each time Kal works over the incantation. Some of the patterns are similar to what he's seen before, but there are entire themes that are alien to Kal. Committing the words to memory Kal repeats them in his mind trying to unlock their secrets. Not until he understands the meaning will the magic be his to control.

Kal knows the magic will reveal itself if he keeps attentive to it's guiding. He repeats the words over and over in his head, slightly varying the accent and pronunciation each time through. The magic responds as Kal gets closer to the correct incantation. The tingle of energy acts like a compass, guiding him to understanding. Four hours go by and Kal finally understands the spell. Like a warm blanket the magic surrounds him and he forgets himself as it's power washes over him. Kal smiles, his hunch was correct. This was just the sort of spell he was looking for. Still basking in it's glow, he commits it's words to his spellbook, taking note to include the poem.

His writing style is a reflection of his fighting style, the same harmony of precision and beauty plays out in the letters. When he finishes the last letter the magic flows from him into the book. The euphria leaves him and he's left only with the afterglow of mental exhaustion. Kal finishes with a short prayer to Corellon Larethian and closes his spellbook.

Too drained to study any more for the day, Kal leaves the Guild Hall and makes his way to the training ground. While his mind was spent, his body felt like a wound spring.

OOC: I will write more soon.
From: Josh

Subject: Character sheets

Hey Mark, Do we have any idea when our Character Sheets will be available? It's been difficult to finish the time here in Gorn without them.
From: Mark

Subject: Character sheets

Hopefuly next week when Mike gets back from overseas.

He knows they are down and that we need them.
From: Mark

Subject: Kal's time off

Just a quick DM note. The mage's guild is not located in the Chapterhouse. It is in the city of Gorn and works closely with the SilverSwords, but is not under it direct control. The party, if they want, can live at the Chapterhouse, but the arcane magical research would be happening on the grounds of the mages guild.

Subject: Character sheets

I'd look this up, but with the character sheets down...

Is Ranthir a fighter or a ranger? Is there anybody in the party besides Mund and Salix with Survival skill points?
From: Mark

Subject: Character sheets

Ran is a straight fighter.
From: Mark

Subject: Character sheets

And to answer your question, as far as I know Mund and Salix are the only characters with the Survival skill.
From: Kevin

Subjec: Harp

OOC: I am going to try to finish Harp's leveling up this weekend. Work has been very busy (1 loan closing today, 1 more next Wednesday, 2 final submissions due in the next week). I will get some done tonight and then complete more over the weekend.
From: Josh

Subject: Kal

I have a lot more I'd like to write with Kal. I imagine two more emails will do it. Expect at least one this weekend.

Subject: Harp's time off

Arriving back at the Chapterhouse with his purchases, Harp heads back to the armorer to discuss what can be done with his weapon. After some discussions, Harp leaves his longsword with the smithy for the work to be done. When complete, the sword will be a shocking lesson to those who feels its bite. While there, Harp also discusses an idea he had with the armorer. While his buckler allowed him to use his bow when needed, it did not provide him with the level of protection he wanted when fighting hand to hand, which was how Harp usually found himself.

Intruiged by the idea, the armorer agrees to discuss Harp's idea's with a mage friend of his to try to determine how to creats a shield that could change its shape depending upon the desires of the user. Leaving a small downpayment to cover the cost of some trial samples, Harp moves on to the quartermaster again. Paying respects from the merchant, Harp picks up a few miscellaneous items, the most important of which were a couple of wands designed to help cure wounds encountered during combat. Imbued with the most basic healing spells known to the Order, Harp thought that these might free up some of the burden that had been placed on Ragnar (and occaisionally him) to use thier grace only for healing purposes. There was so much more they could do.

That taken care of. Harp returns to his chamber, changes into his robes, and heads back to the chapel for some more prayer and contemplation of how he can repay Kal for saving Harp back in Bodentown. What did he have that the elf lacked? Kal was much quicker than Harp. If he focused on not getting hit, he wasn't getting hit. He could use magic, so there was little Harp could do there. If there was one thing that Kal lacked, it was staying power in combat. 2 hits and he was down. Harp, on the other hand, was pretty much able to stand in there and take a beating if needs be. Slowly, an idea creeeps its way into Harp's head.

There was a blessing available to him during which, within certain limitations, Harp could absorb some of the damage that Kal might suffer in battle. That was it. As Kal had put his life on the line for Harp, so Harp could offer to put his life on the line for Kal. He would have to get approval from Angelwing, as this blessing was rarely performed for those outside of the Order, but seeing as the Elf Council had put Kal under the Order directions for the time being, it sort of made sense. Of course, he would have to purchase the items needed to make the prayer effective when called for, but that was the least he could do. The question was, would Kal accept? Harp was still unsure of what made the elf tick. Sometimes he was the most honorable person he had met. Other times, he would react in such a way that Harp wondered if his parents had dropped him on his head when he was young. If Kal declined this offer....

OOC: Mark, Harp is going to have his sword upgraded to be a +1 shocking longsword. He purchased 2 wands of CLW. He put down a small deposit for the armorer to work with a mage to set up a test version of a variable shield.

I will write more later.
From: Porter

Subject: Mund bears with it

After the excitement of Mund waking everybody up in the middle of the night, everybody goes back to bed. Mund doesn't have any more bear dreams, but that's probably because he's so shaken that he never manages to sleep for more than a fifteen minute stretch.

Mund spends the next day nervously thinking about what's happening to him. Instead of riding with the group, he spends the day counting ahead, behind, and parallel to the party. He says that he's just on the look-out for any surprises, but everybody can tell how much he needs the time alone, so nobody questions his sudden hyper-vigilance.

That night, while Mund's off hunting small game and gathering some of his favorite berries that happen to be ripe this time of year, Salix spends his time constructing what he calls a "sweat lodge". He makes it by bending and lashing together live saplings to form a dome structure, then covers with practically every bedroll and cloak in the entire camp. Mund asks about it and Salix just says "Wait until after dinner."

Not much is said during dinner that evening. Nobody wants to complain, but it's pretty meager fair in comparison to what Mund and Salix usually provide. Afterwards, Salix takes several hot rocks out of the fire and places them in a leather satchel. "Mund, please come with me," he says, and leads him back to the structure.

Salix starts stripping off his clothes and indicates for Mund to do the same. "All members of my brotherhood of a certain ability are given by Obad-Hai the grace to take the form of animals. For most of us, this comes naturally, but it's not uncommon for somebody to have difficulties at first. It's a lot to adjust to."

Salix and Mund crawl through a flap and sit cross-legged around a pit filled with water. Salix starts putting the hot rocks into the water. As steam billows up between them, he continues his explanation. "Usually, we have trouble wanting to turn back into human form, but I've heard of cases similar to yours. When one of us has difficulty, we'll often bring them into a sweat lodge like this to help them focus their mind so that they can change back and forth at will."

"First I want you to clear your mind of everything except what it feels like to be a human. Try to feel every part of your body -- your toes, the back of your neck..."

As the sweat streams down their bodies, Salix leads Mund through several mental exercises. First, he goes back and forth envisioning himself and as a human and as a bear. Next, he works on envisioning himself with bear's body but thinking his own thoughts. Mund finds this surprisingly difficult and feels like quitting, but doesn't want to let down his friend, so he keeps at it.

After about an hour of these mental exercises, Salix has Mund rage while doing the exercises. First he does it while envisioning himself as fully human, and he feels the strength fill him as it has ever since he first learned to swing an axe.

Next, he has Mund rage while envisioning himself as fully bear. As he summons his strength, he starts transforming like he did the night before. But this time, the changes continue until he's fully changed into a black bear. He takes an uncomprehending look at Salix and lets out a roar. Salix then turns into a black bear himself. Mund-as-Bear's confusion clears as he sees a fellow bear making gestures of friendship and submission. He calms down and turns back into human, and Salix follows suit.

"Salix!" Mund says. "I did it! I turned into a bear, and I *remember* it!"

"True", says Salix. "Your body was a bear. So was your mind, for the most part. Now I want you to do the same but with the third exercise, so that you can have the body and strength of a bear while maintaining full control of your faculties." At Mund's confused expression he repeats himself. "That is, we want you to have the body of a bear, but to keep your own mind and will. Now, do the third exercise, and then summon your strength."

After a few minutes of preparation, Salix watches as Mund transforms into a bear, and then bring up his paws as though examining them. The bear then walks over and gives Salix a big hug before turning back into the red-haired Mund, grinning like a fool.

"Well done, Mund! You did it! That was you -- I could tell. Now, let's call it a night. You've made great progress -- more than I expected, but you look exhausted. If you need it, we can do this again."

When he come out of the sweat lodge, the cool evening breeze feels like ice on his wet skin. He rubs himself down with a rabbit skin and dresses himself.

"How did it go?" asks Allistair with apprehension. Ever since he heard the roar of the bear come from the tent, he had been trying to figure out what spell he could cast to stop an out-of-control BearMund without hurting him too badly. "Call me Arth," answers Mund, making reference to the founder of the Bear Clan who, according to legend, turned into a bear when going into battle.

That night, Mund's dreams are different. There he is, minding his own business and licking the last bits of honey off his paws, when that persnickety orc shows up causing trouble again. Mund turns into a human and splits the orc open with his axe, much like the orc had done to him in real life. Then Mund turns back into a bear and sucks the marrow out of the orc's bones.

Mund wakes up early from the best night's sleep he's had in weeks. Nobody else is up yet, and Mund sees that Surin, who's on watch, hasn't noticed him get out of his tent. This is unusual, as Surin is usually so keen-eyed. On a whim, Mund decides to play a joke on him. First he does the mental exercise that Salix taught him the night before, then he lets the power of the Bear enter him.

Just as happened the night before, he feels his bones and muscles shift beneath his thickening skin and pelt. He looks down and see his paws. On all fours (How natural it feels to walk this way!) he lumbers out from behind the tree.

Surin sees him as asks "Mund?" with doubt in his voice. Without making a sound, Mund charges toward the halfling.

"Mund?!?" The halfling's voice asks, more nervous. He's about to call the alarm when Mund knocks him down and pins him to the ground. Seeing the terror on his face Mund has pity and quickly turns back into a human. "Sorry for giving you such a scare there, Surin, but the opportunity was just too good. Besides, I had to pay you back for the snake you put in my bedroll."

"You put that snake in my bedroll first, if you'll recall."

"Yeah, good point." says Mund with a grin. "I'll make it up to you by letting you win in axes at 10 paces."

"Mund, I don't know how many times we've played, and you've never stopped 'letting me win'. One of these days, you'll have to admit that I'm as better than you at throwing axes as I am better looking. Let's go throw -- people are getting up and we'll be leaving before long. Loser has to hunt for dinner tonight."
From: Kevin

Subject: Harp's time off

The next few days fall into a comforting pattern for Harp. Up early for morning services, breakfast, weapons training for a few hours, a quick shower before lunch, contemplation time after lunch, more weapons training in the mid afternoon, before dinner and more prayer before bed. His plan continues to form in his head, waiting only for the time to present it to Angelwing.

8 days after their arrival back in Gorn, Harp is summonded again to meet with Angelwing. He enters the office and seats himself when instructed. "Sergeant Harp, you have had a week to consider your actions in Bodentown, and to try to determine an appropriate compensation for the one who saved you from your folly. What have you decided to do?" Confidently, Harp responds. "I propose to offer to Kal the blessing of the Battle Lord during which I link myself to him and in so doing, I take some of the injury that he takes in Battle. It is something that I have to give and something that Kal can benefit from. My only worry is that he is not of our Order, but since he has been placed under our direction for the time being, that that concern might be satisfied, so to speak. I will offer to him the rings to seal this offer, and then each day, I will pray for this blessing, to be used when he sees fit."

A small smile creeps over Angelwing's face. " You have thought much about this, Harp. I am somewhat surprised. I think even you will admit that such an idea would not have come from you even a year ago. These quests you have been on have done you good. But, do not let these words of praise go to your head. You are still young and inexperienced in the ways of the world. But enough of that. I approve of your plan, if you can get Kal to agree. As he has been ordered to serve us, I now confirm your plan to serve him, if he accepts it. Failure to perform as you have promised me will have grave consequences - remember that. Now, go and make your plans and then propose your offer to Kal. I expect to hear back from you in three days."

OOC: Have to head off the the real life game. I will write more tomorrow. Sorry there is so much. I hope it is not too boring. Just buying stuff bores me, and I feel like I have to make up to Mark for all the writing he did getting us back from Bodentown.
From: Josh

Subject: Ka's time off

Kal leaves the mage guild elated and exhausted. This new spell would have made all the difference in their final fight against the Orc-Barbarian or in the alley surrounded with Harp.

The magic from the studying still lingers in Kal's body. Every step he takes is novel, the world never seemed to have as much detail as it does now. He can feel the air rush into his lungs and swirl around. A squirrel runs by and Kal sees every step, every motion. Even the city sounds resonate differently, there's depth and shape to every noise.

He returns to the chapter house court yard as the sun is setting and begins a simple exercise routine. The same free-form combat that he has known since his tenth year of training.

First he lets his mind slide away as he had done so many times before. "Kal" fades away into nothing. There is no barrier between body and motion; they are the same entity. The body exists to be in motion, the motion exists to manifest a body.

The enemies Kal fights exist only in his mind. They are phantoms of previous fights re-created in countless variations. They are were-beasts, orcs, zombies and guards all at once. They are centaurs, they are his closest friends and his furthest enemies.

But something is different this time. Subtly, slowly, things change. Without notice these illusions fall away and his partner becomes the world around him.

Like a lone strand of hair, every motion becomes a reaction to the wind flowing around him. Not around him. With him. His body becomes the breeze, every parry and every strike is a response to the moving air.

Noise falls around him like arrows falling from the sky. Every step is made to avoid the piercing sounds.

Sunlight and shadow pulse around him like swords, like magic, like bodies. Stepping between and around the shadows cast from the nearby buildings, Kal fights the city itself. He becomes every breeze, every sound, every shadow. These things all become Kal.

This continues into the twilight and ends with the setting sun. As the Sun falls so does Kal, kneeling in prayer and humility in front of the Gods. He remains prostrated, giving his thanks and praise, until the moon rises.

Subject: Kal's time off

Certainly not too boring, I love what you've written.
From: Kevin

Subject: Harp's time off

Harp leaves Angelwing's offce, a slight bounce in his step. Now, where to find the elf. It had been nearly a week, and Harp was not sure where Kal might be. Well, time to start looking. This was where Harp had been raised, after all. Heading to the mages guild, Harp is able to track down Alllistair. Of course, he is not able to see him right away as he is busy learning some new spell or another. Harp leaves a message for the mage to contact him back at the Chapterhouse later that evening. Then, he heads to a local jewler. He would need rings, very nice rings. Explaining to the merchant what he was looking for, Harp finds what he needs in only a few minutes. These were not rare, at least not for normal people, but in this case, these rings would be put to a very special use.

Heading back to the Chapterhouse, Harp leaves word at the front gates that he was expecting a visitor and that they should send a messenger for him when his guest arrived. A few hours later, while meditating, a soft knock at the door alerts him that Allistair has arrived. Arriving at the front gate, Harp invites the wizard to dinner at a nearby establishment. Allistair was probably more familiar with Kal than anyone else in the group, so Harp wanted to not only find out where Kal might be staying, but what Allistair thought of Harp's plan. Asking that he keep their discussion confidential,, the two talk about the elf and discuss how Harp might present his plan with causing the least chance of affront to the prideful elf. After a few drinks and some good food, Harp bids goodnight to the mage, knowing that he will have a full day the following day. He also remembers to find out where Kal has been staying.

When he returns to the Chapterhouse, he asks the housecarl if he could impose on one of the young pages. Knowing Harp's recent involvement with Anglewing, the majordomo reluctanly agrees to have a page at Harp's door first thing in the morning. Retiring to bed, Harp's mind hardly lets him sleep throughout the night.

OOC: I hope to get this finished tomorrow.
From: Mark

Subject: Dearly beloved

Dearly beloved,

We are gathered here today in the sight of the battle lord.

Kal, do you take this 1/2 orc?

Harp, do you take this elf?

The rings.
From: Josh

Subject: Dearly beloved

Kal's just a gold digger. Well, hit point digger. Harp better get a pre-nup.

Subject: Turn

I will be writing up some more stuff around town this evening.
From: Mark

Subject: Loot

So what is the party going to do with the loot? Sell it all?
From: Porter

Subject: Loot

I think so. Nobody seems interested in any of it.

Well, not more interested than the money that could be got from selling it and then buying something else.
From: Kevin

Subject: Loot

Agreed. Given the benefit we are getting from the Order, it seems more advisable to sell the weapons at market value and then buy what we want.

Sell, Sell, Sell.
From: Jason

Subject: Loot

Agreed, Ragnar wasn't particularly interested in any of it.
From: Josh

Subject: loot

Ditto.
From: Bryan

Subject: Loot

The knife interests Surin a little, but in this case he'd be more than willing to sell the loot.

FYI - Wedding complete. I've gotten rid of my sister (now on her honeymoon) - now the key is to get rid of the rest of the relatives/friends ;)
From: Josh

Subject: Loot

I think Kal has one of those +1 chain shirts on, which he swapped out for his +1 studded leather. I'm not sure but it's on the character sheet. If that's the case we can take the difference out of his end of the treasure.
From: Porter

Subject: Loot

Ooh! Mund swiped out one of the +1 shields for his nonmagical shield, and has been using it.

But if Mund's able to acquire a magical 2-handed axe like he wants, he'll have no need for the shield.
From: Josh

Subject: Upgrades

Kal wakes the next morning feeling particularly refreshed. The last adventure had changed him drastically. He was too tired on the road to sense it before, but after a few nights of good sleep he could feel it all over his body.

After a short breakfast he collects the gold from his share of the treasures, along with the reward money, and heads to the armory. When he walks in the smith comes up to him immediately.

He's a dwarf, shorter than Ragnar and with a thicker beard. Certainly much older. He wears a thick leather apron with is emblazoned on the front with the symbol of Heronious. He looks Kal over once with a frown and then speaks.

"I know who you are and what you've done for the guild. We'll reduce the price of anything you buy here, but don't expect me to do it for free."

Kal smiles. "Of course."

"Alright" the smith says, looking at ease, "what can I do for you?"

"An associate of mine has an axe that is enchanted with ice magic. We also came across another axe that has fire damage. I'd like to have the enchantment on my sword enhanced. I want it to do fire and ice damage, combined."

The smith wrinkles his face up in thought. "It's not possible. The enchantment doesn't sustain, the magicks conflict."

Kal frowns.

The smith continues, "Now hold your horses. We've got other options. I can mix lightning or acid with either of those two, if you're not too particular about the sort of magic."

Kal thinks for a moment and is satisfied. "Alright. Ice and Lightning it is, how long will it take?"

The smith smiles with patience, "Oh, a day or two. You can come back tomorrow and see how we're progressing."

Kal replies, "I must stay here the entire time you work on my sword. If I leave it must leave with me. While you work on the sword I must be right there watching. I don't mean this to be an inconvenience, but it is absolutely necessary. I will stay out of your way, and if it costs more gold I will pay the price."

"Cost more gold! Of course it will cost more gold! You damned elves and your codes of honor. Thinking you can stay under foot while I work, like I'm going to mess up your sword. Let me tell you boy, I've forged weapons for ladies and lords. I've worked with materials you've never heard of. You cannot stay here. And even if I let you, you better believe it will cost more gold!" The dwarfs face has turned a crimson red with the offense.

Kal replies with a tense patience, "It is customary that no one but an elf should work on this sword, and even then I would remain to assist in the enchanting. On the word of Angelwing and other elves I have spoken with I have decided to suspend this custom. On the word of your reputation.

I mean no offense, and I mean my patronage as an honor. Please understand it as such."

The smith looks Kal over, squinting his face up like only a dwarf can. "Alright. This is how it's going to work. Come back in an hour, bring your sword and the gold with you. Expect to be here for 6 hours while we enchant the weapon. I don't want to hear you move or speak. If something goes wrong, I'm holding you accountable. If you can accept these terms I'll do the work."

Kal nods in accordance.

"Alright", the smith says "and as long as you don't get in the way, I'll waive the extra cost. You and the group you're with have been doing some serious good out there, consider it on me."

Kal smiles and shakes the dwarfs hand. "Thank you." As he's leaving Kal thinks to himself how much he's changed in the past few months. A dwarf upgrading his sword, HA! What a strange world.
From: Porter

Subject: Upgrades

Lightning and cold +1 rapier? That's a serious upgrade!
From: Josh

Subject: upgrades

Kal's gotta pick up some damage somewhere. Those mosquito bites just aren't cutting it. And anyway, bladesingers are stupid proud when it comes to their swords. :-D

I just know Mark's going to take our equipment away from us this leg of the trip.
From: Mark

Subject: Upgrades

Been done in the evil game I run. Just ask Kevin. Whole group woke up in prison, not a thing on them.
From: Josh

Subject: Upgrades

What level did this campaign start at? Level 1? Who's been around the whole time?

Just idle curiosity.
From: Mark

Subject: Upgrades

Which game, the evil one or this one?

This campaign started with all the characters at 4th level. Harp, Ranthir, Salix and Surin are the only 4 from the original group. Kal then joined and then Ragnar, Mund and Ally joined.

The evil group also started at 4th level. Ending up in the prison with out any gear was part of the plan that the guy they worked for had. They were higher level by then and killed Angelwing. Of course they had two monks in the party, so not having weapons was not a huge deal for a while.
From: Kevin

Subject: The Offer, part 2

The next morning finds a young page knocking on Harp's door. Giving a grunt of acknowledgement, Harp opens the door and motions for the page to enter his room. "You are familiar with the city, correct?" Harp asks. Seeing the nod of assent, Harp proceeds "There is someone I need to to give an invitation to. His name is Kal, and he is a elf, so make sure to be very polite" He gives the young man directions to where Kal is staying and tells the page to ask Kal to join Harp at the Chapterhouse at 1 hour before noon, if he is available. When the page has his answer from Kal, he is to find Harp in the Chapel and deliver his answer. The page takes off, eager to get this task completed. Harp does his daily ablutions, and then prepares for his meeting with Kal. An hour later, the young man comes in quietly to the Chapel to let Harp know that the message had been delivered and the the elf replied that he would meet Harp at the main gate at the appointed time.

As the time approaches 11, Harp heads to the front gate. At exactly the given time, Kal strides up to the gate, his expression neutral. Harp extends his hand in greeting, and the elf returns it cautiously, curious as to why the big 1/2 orc has asked him here. Harp invites the elf to follow him into the Chapterhouse.

A few minutes later, they are back into the main chapel to the Battle Lord. The murals on the wall depict scenes from great battle over the eons the Order had been involved in. Some Kal had seen at the wedding of Angelwing, but others seemed to have been added since the last time he had been here.

As they enter the Chapel, Harp leads Kal to a pew in the back and motions for him to sit. His curiosity still high, Kal takes the seat, and then looks at Harp. It is obvious the orc wants to say something, but is unsure of how to start.

"Kal, do you remember that night in the alleyway back in Bodentown?" A quick nod from Kal confirms he does. "Well, I was never able to thank you properly for that. If you had not been there, I would probably have been fodder for one of those Blood Hulks things Faldor was making."

Still not knowing where this was headed, Kal responds "It was unusual for one who seeks good to go out about at night in that town. I was *concerned*", leaving the subject of his concern open.

"Well, we never got a real chance to talk about why I was out." With that, Harp gives a brief account of Thanga and his involvement with her. " I just wanted to see her one more time before we left. I've.... I've never had a girlfriend before. The embarrassment Harp feels is obvious. " All I wanted to do was see her, and instead I almost got both of us killed. That was a grave mistake on my part. Had it just been my life, the results would have been even with the poor decision. But, it almost cost you your life as well. In fact, if it had not been for you, I would have died. I owe you my life."

Kal is somewhat taken aback. He had not expected such honesty from Harp. They had not broached the subject since that night. "Harp, I was concerned about a member of our party. If Ragnar or Ran had left, I would also have been worried." The unspoken thought that he had been worried that Harp was selling them out was left hanging in the air.

Harp replies "It doesn't matter. I was the one who left, you were the one who followed. You were the one who saved me. I owe you my life. Anglewing agrees with what I have said. I have asked you hear to this Chapel, so that when I make the offer I am about to make, you will know the seriousness with which I make it.

There is in our Order a blessing that is available to me. This blessing allows me to assist one other person. This blessing will make that person less vulnerable to damage, and able to resist other attacks a little better. It does have some limitations - there is a matching set of rings we must wear, there is a time limitation, the two people so warded must stay within a certain distance of each other. But, within these guidelines, this blessing is very potent. My offer to you is this - I will prepare this blessing each day. Upon your request, I will pray for it so that you may benefit from it. I will do this asking nothing in return from you. It is the least I can do."

Kal's eyes open wider in surprise. Didn't Harp realize that he had followed him because he had been suspicious of him? Because he did not trust the 1/2 orc? Harp felt a debt over something that had been brought about because of his lack of trust in the orc? Kal had to set him straight.

"Harp, when I said I followed you because I was concerned, I was being very careful in my words. I was concerned that you were sneaking out to turn us over to Faldor's men. I did not trust you, as I do not trust those of your race. The fact that we were attacked right then was sheer coincidence, nothing more. That does not justify what you offer." But, the idea of having some extra protection in the middle of a battle was very attractive. He just could not take it based on a a false belief of another.

"Kal, why you followed me does not matter. I made a decision, it was a poor one. Had you not followed me, for whatever reason, I would be dead. There is no question about that. I owe you my life whether I like you or not. That debt must be paid. This blessing is not one that we normally share outside of the Order. However, I have discussed this with Angelwing, and he is in agreement. If you will accept, I will provide this blessing for you. If you decline, I will have to find some other way to try and pay you back, a way that may not be as useful to you."

Kal thinks for a moment. Harp now knew his true reason for following him, but still he proposed this offer. And, he was making this offer with full knowledge and approval of his Order, and he was making it here in his place of worship. There was no way the Battle Lord would have allowed falsehood to be uttered in this place, that much Kal was sure of. Could he accept what had been offered???

OOC: I will try to finish this up tomorrow during the day.