Wands and the next mission, Chapter 3 begins
Subject: Wands
Absolutely not. Mund cannot use a wand, and the reason why he feels he needs to have potions on hand is because of his special needs with raging. If Mund is take to too low of hit points while raging, he'll die if he's not healed before he stops raging. He cannot depend on other characters to be around to do that for him.
Speaking of which -- Mark -- is there any way for Bear Mund to be able to get access to a potion to drink before he unrages and dies?
Could he spend another rage to turn into a raged humanoid Mund and drink his wheaties?
From: Porter
Subject: Wands
Mark, is this true? Could Mund use the wand? I thought you had to be capable of casting the spell in order to use a wand.
From: Mark
Subject: Wands
Normally I say it is true. However, the description of rage, IIRC, says specifically that MOST other skills and stuff can not be used while raging. I am going to say that Mund can take a potion but can not use a wand while raging.
From: Mark
Subject: Wands
He can not take a potion while in Bear shape. He can not spend another rage since he has to wait between encounters to rage again. Remeber that right now Mund is exhausted or something after each rage. He stays that was for a certain period of time.
Sorry, that is part of the draw backs of changing shape. Salix has the same problems with potions and wands while wildshaped as well.
From: Mark
Subject: The next mission
A month has passed since the party has returned to Gorn. A few of the party members are finding themselves restless. Salix and Mund in particular are ready to get out of town. One evening, all of the members receive a message from Angelwing, asking for their presence at a meeting early the next morning. They all accept, some more eagerly than others.
Heronin greets them all warmly and asks them to sit. A large spread of food has been laid out on the table. Fresh fruit, warm bread, chilled water. Thick slices of bacon are served along with eggs served however they are wanted. As the party eats, several familiar faces join them. Orpal the scribe and Ranthir's father among them. Three quarters of an hour later, most every one is done eating. Mund is still smacking his lips from the juice of the orange he had been eating. When he notices several people staring at him he replies "We don't got nothin like these ranges up where I come from. I like 'm."
Anglewing calls the meeting to order. "As you all know, a month ago you recovered another of the Gems of Valorshield's crown. We were a bit disturbed when no other clues were given to you, like when Lotharios gave you a hit as to the location of this gem. Brother Orpal and his assistants spent the first two weeks combing over the prophecy, looking for new clues. Finally, two weeks ago, a new novice made a connection with an obscure statement and the gem you just retrieved. Orpal used the emerald to study some of the illuminating drawings on the borders of the prophecy. There, hidden in the art, were more clues. Brother Orpal has determined that one of the gems was entrusted to the King of the Dwarves of World Spine Mountains."
"This makes sense as the dwarves were staunch allies in the last conflict with Mesodar. The Order has maintained a good relationship with the dwarves. The current King, Dar, has even been a visitor here at the Chapter House. It was decades ago but he is familiar with the Order." Heronin turns to Ragnar "Brother Ragnar, since you are a dwarf, though not of the clans of the World Spines, I would ask that you lead this mission. I know that your not being a follower of the dwarven gods could be a sticking point, but I was hoping that with you leading the party, things might go a bit more smoothly. You will be given a map to the closest entrance to the mines and warrens of the clans. I would think that you could get an escort there that would take you to Dar."
He turns to the rest of the party "Kal and Harp I also send along with Ragnar. I would ask the rest of you to accompany them. I know there is friction between some members, but you have proved quite effective as a team. You know the importance of this mission. You know more of whoever is behind what opposes us as anyone." He looks at Ranthir, Surin, Salix, Ally and Mund "Will you go?"
OODM: Comments, questions, role play?
From: Porter
Subject: Wands
Crap. That makes Mund's higher constitution as a bear much less useful.
Mark, if you don't mind, could we start not increasing Mund's HP on the sheet when he rages? All we need to do is remember that if he goes to 0 or lower, he stays conscious, and that he doesn't die yet at -10.
From: Mark
Subject: Wands
I usually keep track of both. I use the subdual slot for the rage HP total and the normal slot for his normal HP total.
From: Porter
Subject: The next mission
Mund looks to his brother Allistair and to Salix. "I reckon y'all wanna go, dontcha?" When he gets an affirmative answer [OOC: Assuming he does. If not, we'll retcon this last part out.] , Mund responds "Well, I'll come along with ya."
From: Derek
Subject: The next mission
Allistair speaks. "I don't necessarily agree with the Order's philosophy, but I've stated these thoughts before so I don't need to elaborate on that here. However, having seen what the followers of Nerull did to Bodentown, I feel I have a better idea of what the world will come to if Hextor and his champion Mesodar are allowed to conquer and reign."
"Besides, I've always been a better judge of character than I have of policy, and the past months with Harp and Ragnar have shown them to be brave and trustworthy. So I will accept the Order's request for my assistance."
From: Porter
Subject: The next mission
[This should have been sent out to everybody.]
Surin looks at the others. "I've always been curious about the Spine. I'd not leave this party without completing the mission at any rate."
OOC: I'm in. Apologies for the extended silence lately. As I've told Mark, things've been rather busy (in a good way)
Ragnar's time off
Subject: Ragnar's time off
Ragnar spends much of his month in the temple reading and meditating. He thought about his previous return to Gorn, and all the help he had been able to give, but with remorse he recognizes that this time, he has his own issues to deal with. He was loathe to admit it, even to himself, but he recognized that he had not fully dealt with his pride in his combat abilities, and that in the most recent mission that had nearly caused tragedy to befall the group.
While Harp, Mund, Kal and Ran... and even Surin!... had shown their skill in combat, Ragnar had singularly failed to distinguish himself in that respect. In fact, the one time he had managed to help in combat, it was by using one of his last powerful blessings - a blessing that should have gone to healing Mund.
He hadn't realized at first, in fact not at all until the night Mund had suddenly changed into bear, causing him to contemplate what hidden dangers that newfound power would bring with it, but his decision had come close to costing the warrior his life. The fact that it took him so long to realize this shook him; he had grown up in the Wildlands, he had heard the tales of those who would fight with superhuman tenacity, only to drop dead when the adrenaline ran off. In fact, he had a sneaking suspicion Mund had even mentioned it to him once. It was not like Ragnar to forget such a critical and potentially life-saving piece of information as that, but in the heat of the moment he'd ignored his companion's need to focus on the fight. Only his brother's intervention had saved his life.
These thoughts were his constant companion during the first week at Gorn. The second week he ventured out of his room more frequently, taking advantage of the good will their successful mission had generated to speak at length with several of the wisest (and highest ranking) clerics in the temple. Though most of their advice and comments had been insightful, none of it seemed quite right to him, and his prayers for guidance seemed to indicate that their words were not what he needed, and he retreated back into solitude.
Finally, near the end of their third full week in Gorn, he ventures out again, feeling the need to interact with people once again. Unsure of where he is going, he lets his feet guide him as he concentrates on his thoughts. He passed a hallway that he knew would take him to the guest area, where many of his companions were lodging, but he passes on by, lowering his face a bit as he does so. He still wasn't brave enough to admit his doubts and flaws to his companions. The thought shamed him, but there it was.
How did Kal do it? He certainly hadn't been reticent about sharing his doubts with others. Of course, those were suspicions about first Harp and then Mund, rather than himself, but he seemed to have grown past at least his doubts about Harp. And that was certainly what Ragnar needed to do now, to put aside his doubts and grow past them. With a sudden start he realizes that he had stopped in front of a door. As he takes in his surroundings, he suddenly finds the carpet at his feet quite remarkable. Someone had really put a lot of work into that. There was a lump in his throat, making it hard to swallow. Of course... he was too ashamed to tell his companions his doubts, so he came here, to the one person in the world whose approval mattered to him even more than theirs did... had, in the past, mattered even more than the approval of Heironeous himself, though Ragnar had eventually passed that stage of outright worship.
Finally he musters his courage, knocks, and enters. Jaryth Corron, ever courteous, had risen to greet him, though Ragnar wished he would not. He had never felt more like he was intruding on this great man's time and privacy than he did now. The paladin welcomed him as he always did, and Ragnar gave a few polite replies, but the larger man quickly realized his heart was not in it, and that he was there for some important reason.
"What is it that's bothering you?" They had known each other long enough now to value candor, but Ragnar still found himself needing to warm up to his topic.
"General Corron, you know full well how I've always idolized you. Ever since you showed up in our village... it didn't even have a name, but you stayed for weeks healing everyone. And then, when you freed us... I couldn't even remember not being a slave. My mother told me stories, of course, but I never truly believed her... It never occurred to me that anyone, mortal or divine, cared what happened to us.
"Even when I returned to my mother's home, surrounded by relatives who, I now realize, really did care for me, I couldn't help but think that the person who really cared, the one who had actually helped, was a god seldom mentioned our people. And when I came here and found that you were here as well, I couldn't believe my fortune. I would be here, able to see the person I most admired, able to watch what you did, how you did it, to learn from you, to..." Ragnar trailed off, thinking about what he had been about to say. "To be you... that's what I wanted. But that's not right, is it? That's my problem, I'm still trying to be you, and I'm not. I wanted to be a great crusader, a powerful holy warrior, when Heironeous needed me to be more thoughtful, more mindful of the needs of others, more mindful of my relationship to him."
Jaryth finally speaks again, saying only "Heironeous is the Battle Lord, Ragnar."
"Well I'm not planning on taking a vow of nonviolence, if that's what you're worried about," Ragnar snorts. "But the thing I was trying to become... it wasn't me. That's why I've been beset with these horrible doubts all the time. I'm not the fighter that Harp is, or Kal, or...Mund," at the last second biting back Ran's name, unsure of the reaction it would receive. "But I'll do my part." He smiles. "It seems you've managed to ease my burdens again, and you've hardly said ten words this whole time."
"I find that most of my good advice comes when my mouth is shut," the general chuckles. "I'm glad you could come by today, Ragnar. It's been a pleasure to see you again." They both stand, and Ragnar walks to the door, far more confident than he had entered.
OOC: I had intended to write up a bit more describing Ragnar's purchases, but I'm almost on the end of the second page and that's getting just a bit ridiculous, so I'll just list them so you all know what he's getting: He's trading in his longsword for a cold iron masterword longsword (I may still write that up, as it's a fairly significant decision for him to make) and buying a periapt of wisdom +4, a ring of protection +1, boots of striding and springing, a cloak of resistance +1, and two platinum rings for the shield other spell.
From: Kevin
Subject: The next mission
OOC: Harp, of course, will go.
Flashing back a few days. (Appologies to Kal and Josh).
Shortly after their meeting, Kal is anxious to see what this new blessing Harp has offered will do for him. "Harp, lets go right now to the training yard. I want to see how this works."
"Alright, if you insist, but I have to stop by my quarters first. Head on down and I will meet you there." Watching Kal nod in assent, Harp heads back to his cell. Damn, he had wanted to avoid this. If Kal was hit, Harp was going to show it, and Harp might be able to hide in the middle of a normal battle, doing so on the edge of the training yard would be more difficult. The only way he would be able to do so would be to hide as much of his body as possible. Pulling out his robes, he puts on a pair of gloves and his new cloak, trying to keep only his face exposed. If asked, he would just tell Kal that he had devotions to attend later that day.
Down in the yards, Kal is stretching, preparing himself for what is to come. He sees Harp, but is a bit surprised when the big 1/2 orc is not in his armor. He had thought he would spar with Harp. "What's wrong Harp, you afraid to face me now!!" he says with a little laugh.
"No, no, nothing like that. I just have never used this blessing before, and I need to see what type of concentration I need when it is active. I don't want it to fail us in an important moment." Nodding his understanding, Kal stands aside as Harp approaches the Weaponsmaster. "Brother, we need two opponents, skilled with the sword. They will fight against the elf. Full contact, but with the flats of the swords and no blows to the head. We are trying something here, so call a pause if signaled." The weaponmaster nodds his agreement. This had been done before, so it was not new.
Heading back to where Kal is standing, Harp calls him over. "Are you ready for this? Remember, this does not make you immune to injury, it just makes the injuries less severe. The others have been told to use the flats. If you must hit one of them with that needle of yours, do it in an arm or a leg - not through one of their hearts." With that, Harp starts to chant the words of the prayer. In a few seconds, a slightly shimmering nimubs expands out of the ring on his hand and grows to expand to the ring on Kal's hand, then slowly envelopes the elf. A feeling of strength, power, healthfullness suffuses him. He feels like he can take on anything. Turning to the two sparring partners, the elf sings out an elvish cry and spins toward them, his confidence flowing through his arms and down to the point of his blade.
Over the next few minutes, a display of fancing prowess as few had seen is put on. While Kal is obviously the better sword, the two opponents get in a few good hits here and there. However, whenever they do strike, the wounds they leave are much less severe than Kal would have expected. In a normal fight, Kal had normallys be able to only take a few hits before coming dangeruosly closed to loosing his life. Now, it seemed like he could go on forever. Was this what it was like for Harp and Mund? To have wounds seem like nothing? Why with this blessing, Kal thought, there was almost nothing he could do.
At the side of the combat circle, Harp winces each time the elf gets hit. His loose robes covering the obvious signs of the damage his is taking, he reminds himself that he will have to stop by Brother Ragnar when he was able to see about getting his wounds healed before long. As it is, he has to pray for a few minor prayers when some of the open wounds appear on his neck. He just needs to keep this from Kal while they are here in the city. Once they are on the road, the only time Kal would get hurt Harp was probably going to get hurt as well. Only a few more minutes, and this display would end, and Harp could make his goodbyes for the day.
From: Josh
Subject: Harp and Kal
Thanks for writing that up Kevin. I tried to get started on it a few times, and I could never really get the ball rolling.
I'll try to write something up tonight, covering the same scenario from Kal's point of view.
Harp and Kal, Ran's Question, Salix's time off
Subject: Harp and Kal
OOC: This starts immediately after Harp offered the protection to Kal, and then runs parallel to what Keven just sent out.
Kal briefly returns to his room but is unable to find any rest in meditation. Something was bothering him, something didn't feel right. It wasn't Harp's unwarranted devotion; Harp's strength of character no longer surprised Kal. But Harp wasn't telling the truth. Firstly, the blessing was too powerful. Kal had spent enough time with elven priests to know this sort of blessing was out of Harp's league. Secondly, the lie was written all over Harp's face. Kal almost laughs at the way he used to imagine Harp. Now Kal knew that face isn't capable of monstrosity. It's too honest, too open. Like tonight, Harp's too good to be good at lying.
But why would Harp lie? There's no reason for it. If the blessing did something different than protect Kal there's no good reason to keep that information from Kal. Kal would do best when he knew exactly what was going on, and Harp would be smart enough to know that.
And what of the rings? Why a matching pair? Blessings don't always work like divine magic, but there's usually the same sort of loose causation. Pearls create Ice, sulfur creates fire, a lens will provide far vision. If the blessing just provided protection to Kal, Kal should wear a ring. What did Harp's ring do? Certainly it didn't provide the same protection to Harp; the blessing was already more powerful the Kal imagined it could be.
Kal couldn't figure it out, so there was only one way to know. They needed to practice with the spell. Fortunately Harp had already made the suggestion, so Kal needed no further excuse. He gathered his new armor and weapon and headed to the common area Harp frequents.
As Kal had hoped, Harp's there talking with a few priests and warriors. Harp's still wearing his armor from training that day. Kal wasn't surprised. After spending weeks prepared for battle, he felt naked without a sword at his waist and armor to protect him. Harp must feel the same way. This was a good thing, Harp would likely be ready immediately.
"Harp, lets go right now to the training yard. I want to see how this works."
To Kal's surprise, Harp makes an excuse to return to his quarters. What could Harp need? He had his armor and his sword. The ring was still on his finger. Well, only time will tell. Harp was already walking back to his room, all Kal could do was wait for him in the yard.
My doubts weren't unfounded, Kal thinks with both relief and trepidation. Harp is hiding something. It doesn't make sense that he would lie to me, but there it is, clear as day.
With nothing else to do, Kal begins to stretch in the yard. After a few minutes Harp comes out wearing only a robe. That's strange, Kal thinks to himself.
"What's wrong Harp, you afraid to face me now!!"
"No, no, nothing like that. I just have never used this blessing before, and I need to see what type of concentration I need when it is active. I don't want it to fail us in an important moment."
Kal nods. He still didn't understand what was going on, but better to act like nothing was wrong.
Harp goes to the yardmaster and finds two men for Kal to spar with. Despite the confusion, Kal was looking forward to the match. Harp outlines the rules, "The others have been told to use the flats. If you must hit one of them with that needle of yours, do it in an arm or a leg - not through one of their hearts."
Kal nods in assent, and reaches into a pouch. He takes out a small piece of oak which has been shaped to fit over the tip of his sword, covering about six inches of the blade and preventing it from doing any serious damage.
Harp moves to the sideline, still in prayer. When he gets out of hearing range, Kal says to the fighters, "I'm testing something particular here. I understand Harp asked you not to use the blades of your weapon, but I encourage you to. Don't try to kill me, but I can take a cut or two. I need this to be as much like real combat as possible. Alright?"
Both men look a little uncomfortable but nod in assent.
As Harp finishes his chant, Kal readies his stance. Two opponents hardly seemed like a fight, but Kal intended to let them hit him a few times anyway. If the prayer does what Harp says it will, Kal must be able to feel the difference.
The fight starts, and Kal starts his dance. Without giving up completely, Kal leaves his defenses more open than he normally would. He wants to get hit. He wants to feel the effects of the blessing.
The men fight well, and press harder than they normally would in combat. Kal's sword dance can be intimidating, but not when the opponent knows his sword is non-lethal.
Blows land but don't feel the way they should. Like sound through a wall, or an image through a screen, the attacks are somehow diminished. Kal loves the feeling, after about 5 minutes Kal knows he should be spent from the damage he's taken, but instead he's just getting started.
He laughs a little and begins his chant anew. Determined to regain some of his lost pride, Kal pushes forward against his opponents with full effort now. After a few minute they're all laughing at the silliness of it. If his sword was sharp, they would have each died twice over. If not for the spell, Kal would be well past gone.
The fight comes to an end, and Kal looks over at Harp, reminded of his doubt. With a quick thank you to his sparing partners, Kal dismisses them and walks toward Harp.
Even now Harp's face bears the deception. It is so intense it almost seems to cause him pain, Kal thinks to himself. What was it? Why would Harp need to lie? This blessing worked wonderfully, they would be a much more potent team. What was there to lie about?
Kal walks over to Harp intending to confront him about the issue, but at the last second changes his mind.
I will trust him, Kal resolves. There is something he's not telling me. I don't know what it is, but it doesn't matter. I will trust him.
"Not a bad workout!, Too bad you're over here dodging all the fun, " Kal says, wincing as he pokes a shallow cut on his arm, "Maybe the last mission's turned you soft. Could you patch some of these up for me?"
Harp smiles weakly and heals Kal has best he is able. They clean up the yard briefly, and then return to the barracks just in time for dinner. On the walk back they laugh about some of the things they had seen in town, growing more and more comfortable with each other's friendship.
From: Randy
Subject: Ran's question
"Heronin, I will of course go on this mission. I do, however, wonder why some of the more powerful members of the order do not accompany us on these missions. If they are of the importance they seem to be I would think that we would want to send the best and most powerful. If the people are not available, I wonder why there is a limit placed on the value of equipment and services we take with us. Should we not be equipped in the best available? Should Alistair not be given the most powerful magical protections? Should we not all be given the maximum enchantments for our weapons and armours? Based on what we have faced so far, it seems the very fate of the world hangs on the success of these missions. We are no longer the rag tag band of adventurers that started these quests but we are still far from the most powerful beings on the side of good."
Ran remains calm as he asks his questions. There is no tone of accusation but more one of concern.
From: Mark
Subject: Ran's question
OODM: Randy are trying to find a way for the party not to be sent? :)
I will write up something this afternoon.
From: Randy
Subject: Ran's question
OOC: No, it's just one of those things that always bugs me a little about RPGs where you are sent on a mission of world saving importance and yet are still expected to pay for everything that might help the mission succeed. I think that a person put into that position might logically question this.
From: Porter
Subject: Ran's question
Pay no attention to the plot hook behind the curtain.
From: Josh
Subject: Wands
Oh, last minute Kal picks up one of those wands of CLW. Harp was like "yo dude this shit's hot" and Kal was like "word".
From: Porter
Subject: Wands
*literal lol*
From: Kevin
Subject: Wands
"represent, homie"
From: Mark
Subject: Wands
Just wait until that schizzel fizzels.
From: Derek
Subject: Ran's question
I was reading how shows like Power Rangers have a similar situation, as in why don't they use the most powerful attack they have as soon as the bad guys appear? The real reason is of course that the show has to be 22 minutes long, but IC this is usually explained by the power rangers having certain rules of engagement as a condition for their powers, one being that the heroes have to use the minimum force necessary to defeat the enemy.
From: Porter
Subject: Ran's question
Yeah. Mund hasn't learned those rules of engagement very well yet.
From: Kevin
Subject: Ran's question
Go Go Pink Ranger.
From: Jason
Subject: Ran's question
That's pretty funny. I remember seeing one episode where they were all getting beat on by some green ranger and then they finally just called all their dragons and stomped on him... a 30 foot tall metal giant against a 6 foot guy in a suit. That made me laugh.
From: Jason
Subject: Ran's question
Actually, I was planning on having Ragnar ask why we were being sent if this was mostly a diplomatic mission, seeing as how elves and half-orcs aren't exactly idolized in dwarven society. But I'm content with Ran being the one making Angelwing (or Mark) squirm.
From: Karl
Subject: Salix's time off
Salix was never a lover of cities, and Gorn was no exception. It wasn't by far the worst collection of people around. Even relatively tiny Bodentown had surpassed Gorn on that accounting. Still, it reeked of things endemic to nearly all large assemblies of people, except the druid circles, of course. Most notible was the smell. Excrement and decay were a part of life, of course, but in a city, cut of from the course of nature, it became concentrated and especially noxious, and it tended to accumulate in forgotten corners where it festered and bred all manner of vile things. No, Salix didn't care much for Gorn.
He again politely declined the room offered to him in the chapterhouse, instead asking permission to reside in the garden while in town. Even that was only tolerable. At first, Salix thought he'd just camp outside the city, but after a week of daily trekking back to the chapterhouse to check for news and back out to his little grove, he felt like he spent more time in the streets of Gorn than at either destination. On the plus side, there were no gardens, parks, or even pots of flowers anywhere in the city more beautiful or luxuriant than the ones on Salix's daily path. He saw to that, idly wondering if anyone else would notice his "mark".
He had hoped Angelwing's Order would come up with something quickly, but as that didn't seem to be happening, and since everyone else in the party was busy with training making the most of their time at "home", Salix decided to explore a bit. He'd explored what felt like half of the city before he stumbled on a little shop at the back of an alley he'd never seen. What first drew his eye was the carving of an oak leaf and acorns above the door. This was a place that welcomed followers of Obad-Hai.
Unfortunately, it only took five minutes of talking with the woman inside to find out she knew nothing of the ways of his God, even if she did have an impressive collection of rare and very useful herbs. After a few minutes talking herbs with her, she began showing him her other wares. She seemed to want to impress him, but most of her items, while unusual in the city were pretty common in the Great North Woods. Then she brought out a small pearl on a golden chain. Salix had heard of Pearls of Power, of course, but they weren't very common in his circle. He did know they were very expensive. "16,000 gold pieces" the lady said. Salix whistled appreciatively, which seemed to please her and he left with a polite but insincere "promise" to give her first crack at any unusual herbs he came across in his travels.
Back at the chapterhouse, Salix was talking with a young acolyte he had struck up a friendly relationship with and mentioned the store and the pearl.
"Oh, you've met old Agatha, then" he said with a laugh. "I certainly hope you didn't buy the pearl. If she was asking 16,000 gp, I'm sure it was worth more like 9,000. But to tell you the truth, I'd be surprised if the whole shop were worth even that much!" He laughed and shook his head. "Anyway, if it's a pearl like that you want, we can supply you one. It won't be cheap, but you can be sure it's real. And Angelwing said you should get a discount, seeing as you've done so much for The Order. I'm actually surprised you haven't asked for anything before now."
"Well, it's not like you post a shopping list," Salix replied. "When he mentioned the armory I didn't think such things would be available here. I'm glad to be wrong. Now, you said there was a good place to get a drink. . ."
(OOC - Mark, you said Salix could get a discounted pearl of power from The Order. With the discount, Salix could afford a lvl 4 pearl (16k x .75 = 12k) and the rest could just go in his pocket for next
The Knight-Marshal speaks, Gandalf
Subject: The Knight-Marshal speaks
Anglewing starts to answer when the Knight-Marshal holds up a hand. "My son, you asked this same question when we were talking the other day. Now that you bring it up again, I will answer you."
He turns so that the whole party can hear "As most of you know, there is a prophecy. As with most prophecies, it does not come right out and say what will happen or who will do it. It talks in riddles and metaphors. It gives some guidance, but not enough for us to make firm decisions. But still we must listen to it, since it came from Valorshield himself."
"We do know this: Propheices like this seem to work out best when those they talk about know less about them. You have only heard a bit of the prophecy, and that was after what it talked about had happened. Only myself, Brother Orpal and Heronin have read the whole thing, and even we still understand very little of it."
"Sections make sense afterwards and lead to new clues that guide us on the next path. There are certain things that we have been able to decipher and they have led us on the path we now follow. We are not sending our most powerful Paladins becuase we are sure they would fail. We do not give you the most powerful weapons in our arsenal, becuase they would likely do you no good. I know it is not much to believe in, but I ask you to trust us. We have spent years studing this and feel it is the right thing."
"As to why you, I ask: Why not you? You eight have now recovered two of the gems, and at great risk. You are as familiar with the foe we stand against as any one alive. The fact that you eight have done so well heartens us and leads us to think our path is correct."
From: Bryan
Subject: The Knight-Marshal speaks
OOC: Of course if the path is *not* correct they'll send someone else ;)
From: Randy
Subject: The Knight-Marshal speaks
"Very well Father. I do not understand it but I will trust you."
Ranthir is still unsure, especially about the limits on their equipment, but he decides that he will put his trust in his father.
From: Karl
Subject: The next mission
"Of course," Salix says, matter-of-factly. "The MountainFather has renewed my obligation of service to Quarion, and by extension, to your Order until this matter is settled."
From: Mark
Subject: The Knight-Marshal speaks
OODM: Hey if Gandalf can have his mysterious reasons for recruiting Bilbo, I can have my reasons for the party. :)
From: Josh
Subject: Gandalf
Gandalf was stealing a dragon's treasure! He could screw around some.
From: Mark
Subject: Gandalf
Actually he was helping the rightful owners get their stolen treasure back.
From: Bryan
Subject: Gandalf
Rightful owners. Uh huh. I'm sure he would have said the same thing
with a VCR under his arm.
Maps and country info, Paul Harvey
Subject: Maps and country info
I just realized that we may have some new players who were not around when I sent out the maps and some geographic information. I am attaching two maps. One is color coded showing major forest, water, deep water and major mountian ranges. It also has the country names for the north continent. The other map shows the country names and the names of the major cities in each. The word document gives a little background on the countries, their political/economic set up, their basic alignment etc.
The Mountains to the far northeast of the northern continent are the White Fang Mountains. The mountain range in the middle, the long one in the middle of the north continent are the World Spine Mountains. The large forest in the top middle is the Great North Woods. Boddentown is off the map to the top.
Everyone but Kal is from the North Continent.
Let me know if you have any geographic questions.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Anyone want to do anything or say anything before I move the party on?
If so you have until this afternoon, probably around 3 or so.
From: Porter
Subject: Mund speaks
Mund leans over and says in a voice intended only for Salix and Allistair "I'll be that their most powerful weapons would do me good."
From: Karl
Subject: Salix thinks
Salix shrugs. He's used to being told only part of the story.
From: Mark
Subject: Paul Harvey
OODM: Paul Harvey walks into the room saying "And now you know.... The rest of the story."
From: Porter
Subject: Paul Harvey
Good day!
Turn, A new father, map question
Subject: Turn
Sorry I did not get anything out yesterday. Work slammed me after lunch (4 internet auctions in the next week) and then I got busy with bell choir and marching band stuff.
I am swammped today but should be able to put out something tonight.
So no questions on the world map?
From: Mark
Subject: A new father
I want to send my congrats to Karl, who is the proud father of an empty shell.
He expects this empty shell to be fully grown by mid October. Lets all send Karl our best wishes for a complete and on time shell delivery.
From: Karl
subject: A new father
LOL, well, a "not-quite-empty" shell. I have interior walls and roughed-in restrooms, too.
:-)
From: Kevin
Subject: A new father
Somehow I see a young Robin Williams in full Mork from Ork regalia telling the little egg to fly.
From: Josh
Subject: Map
Where's gorn? I didn't see it.
Where's Kal from?
From: Mark
Subject: Map
On the map Kalevancountries, Gorn is a city of Schon. Schon is between Camlost and Alakay. Gorn is in the north of the country, on the Coast. Ivo is the Capitol of Schon.
Kal is from the South West Continent. The large forest there is the Elven homeland.
Back on the road
Subject: Turn
Ok sorry lots of band stuff today. Just got back. Have to get dinner and then I will write something up.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Something up.
:)
From: Mark
Subject: Back on the road
After the Knight-Marshal has spoken Angelwing stands again "I thank you all for doing this. whether you take horses or not is up to you, but I expect much of your time will be spent underground. The entrance you are headed for is in the foothills of the Worldspine Mountains, just across our border with Byho. I believe you are familiar with the head of the border guard there? Halpin?" When the party nods yes the Paladin continues "I am sure that the garrison would be willing to care for your mounts until you returned that way. I have also sent word to Halpin letting him know that you would need an escort from the Byho military since you will be in their land and not on the road."
Angelwing turns to the gathered assembly "Tonight there will be a service of prayer. All are invited to attend. Tomorrow morning at first light you will head off."
OODM: If any one wants to write up what they do the rest of the day and that night they can. Only Harp and Ragnar are required to attend the ceremony, although Kal is probably expected to as well. I will move on to the next morning.
An hour before dawn pages wake the party. All of the packing had been handled by pages the night before and there is not much left to do. A hot, filling breakfast and then out to the courtyard as the sun is just peeking over the eastern horizon. Ragnar sits on a small horse while Harp sits on his huge horse Bloody Stupid. The others are arranged on a series of mounts, with Surin on a large pony. Most of the leadership of the Order is there to see them off, as well as Angelwing and Rochelle. "Farewell" Angelwing tells them "I would hope that this mission will be a simple one, but that has not proved it self with the last two. Be on the look out for evidence of the foe. We are sure he is watching."
Ragnar salutes and turns his horse towards the main gate and out of the courtyard. Minutes latter, hooves clattering on cobblestone streets, the eight ride through the eastern gate as it opens for the day.
The ride east on the Great North Road is becoming almost familiar for several of the party members. Ranthir, Harp, Surin and Salix realize that this is the third time that they have ridden east on this road in the past year. This time the ride is more leisurely than the last but the weather is worse. Fall is coming early to Schon and a cold wind blows down off the mountains. A weeks easy ride brings the party to a familiar border post. Lt. Halpin and his guardsmen ride out to meet them on the road.
"Long time no see" the guardsman says, saluting Harp and Ragnar and then shaking their hands. "I understand you are on another mission for the Order. I have contacted my counterpart with the border guards of Byho and an escort should be here late tonight. You can go with them to the entrance to the dwarf clans at first light. I have asked them to bring extra horses for you to ride if you decide to leave your mounts here." As he talks he motions the party to ride with him back to the guard house. When they get there he offers food and ale.
OODM: Any role playing you want to do, go ahead.
Back on the road cont.
Subject: Back on the road
Harp relaxes in the commaraderie of the fort. While he had never done much outpost duty, he thinks he could grow to like it. A little rougher than the Chapterhouse in town, there was a brotherhood here that was attractive to him. He talks to Halpin for a long time, getting the latest information on the surrounding area and trying to learn what he could about the dwarves they were going to see. He knew that the drwarves and orc had about as bad of blood as the elves and orc, so he would have to steel himself for a cold reception.
From: Derek
Subject: Back on the road
While they are resting at the stockade, Allistair comes up to Kal to ask a few questions. "Kal, how are relations between Dwarves and the Elven Nation? I don't remember seeing any dwarves at all while I was in the Great Wood."
"Also, I get the feeling that I'm going to regret not learning some more of the spells in your spellbook. That darkvision spell you have will probably come in handy. I didn't think we'd be headed underground, so I didn't bother learning it."
At the fort
Subject: Turn
No comments from any one?
Ok I will write something up tonight, after 9PM. You can have until then to do anything or say anything.
Are there any questions that I have not answered that have been asked?
From: Jason
Subject: At the fort
"We get along fine. The Dwarves have always been a bit childish in their dealings with the elves, but generally they're good people. They might decide to make someone like me uncomfortable when we arrived, just for sport, but they wouldn't ever try to harm me."
"I rarely use that spell. I sometimes regret taking the time to learn it when I could have invested my time in something more useful, but perhaps on this quest I'll find a use for it."
"Where did you study in the Great Woods? Under what teacher?"
From: Derek
Subject: At the fort
"I was at the great Elven University outside of the capitol. I actually was sponsored to study there for 5 years, it was some agreement that the mages in Gorn had made with the elven wizards there. Since Elven instruction in magic is more relaxed and esoteric than the guild style of instruction most humans learn by, I was never with any mage for a long time. Some of the greatest venerable wizards there actually came to seek me out, since human visitors at the mage school itself are rare. The venerable Ohn-Fell himself spoke with me once, he wanted to 'see how magic had been progressing among these human upstarts' as he put it."
"I actually spend a lot of my time studying with another student named Sune-Nel. Even though the elders considered her a student still, she had been there for over a century and was very knowledgeable. She had a natural gift for magic and was able to teach me how to remember some of my spells without even having to read them in my spellbook."
From: Mark
Subject: At the fort
Ally would know the naming conventions of the elves.
All elves use three letter names as their first name. There are 6 "family" names as well.
These family names are also three letters long. I have the list at home. Some of the last names are Ell, Tor, Lar. I can get the rest when I get home.
Meet Maximus
Subject: Turn
Sorry I did not get anything out last night. I have my stuff with me this morning and I have one thing to do and then I will work on a turn.
From: Mark
Subject: Elven naming convention
Elven last names.
There are 6 elven clan/family names. They are: Ril, Ell, Tor, San, Raf, and Lar.
Elven first names. All elves are given a three letter first name at birth. This is then combined with the three letter last name for the full name. For example Kal-Lar or Ran-Ell or Kev-Lar or Lou-Tor.
If two elves meet and have the same name they then refer to their parents name.
Half elves names depend on who raises them. If they are raised by the elven parent they usually have an elven name, if not they might likely not have an elven name.
From: Mark
Subject: Meet Maximus
As the party dismounts a couple of guardsmen hustle out to take the horses back to the stable. Halpin leads the party into the common room where they sit at the long tables. Two more guardsmen start bringing out mugs of ale and water and plates of bread, cheese and meat. As they eat Ragnar asks Halpin about the dwarves. Halpin looks a bit surprised "I thought you would know more than me, Brother, being a dwarf and all?" "You'd think" answers Ragnar "Except for two thing. First, I am from the White Fang Mountains, not the WorldSpine. Second, I grew up a captive of orcs and was rescued by a Paladin of the Order. I have actually spent very little time with my people. So assume I am a human who has never seen a dwarf and tell me what you know."
Halpin gathers his thoughts. "I am sure all of you are familiar with dwarfs, since you travel with one. I have met a few in my day and even been to the entrances to their mines once. They tend to be quite and steady. I have heard that this can change a bit when they have been at table for a celebration, but I have never seen it. The High King, Dar, has been king for almost 30 years and he was fairly young when he became High King. Byho has more dealings with them. The dwarves mine the ore, ship it to one of the many smelters in Byho where they turn it into metal and then ship the metal back to the dwarves so that their blacksmiths can use it."
"Bhyo, having a large part of the Great North Woods, has a large industry built around the dwarf trade. Many dwarves work in the foundries and smelting plants North West of here. The humans do more of the grunt work, cutting trees, hauling the ore and hauling finished goods. A lot of people there make a living because of the dwarves."
"Bhyo is a fairly nice place to live. They can be a little cold when the rules call for it, but they are not really spiteful. They have a good trade situation set up with the dwarves and they all make a lot of money from it. You should meet some tonight."
The afternoon moves on and the party members prepare to move their gear to their new mounts. They re-supply their provisions. There is a call from the guard tower in late afternoon "Patrol on the horizon" the watcher shouts. The garrison breaks into frenzied activity at the impending arrival. With Halpin's permission, Kal climbs to the top of the tower to get a look at the contingent from Byho.
There are just over 20 men mounted on horses with another 10 or so empty horses on lines behind them. Most of the riders are clad in leather armor and have short spears. Short bows are slung over the backs of half the riders, which Kal is surprised to see is made up of women and men. His keen elven eyes spots short swords at their sides. Two figures stand out. The first, the man in the lead of the patrol is dressed in a shiny breast plate and has a helm with a large feathered plum on it. He has a long spear with a pennant flying from it. The flag has a fancy design on it. Kal figures it for some heraldry, but is unfamiliar with the symbols. The second is a well dressed woman ridding side saddle on a large roan gelding. Her blonde hair trails behind her as she gallops with the rest of the patrol.
Several minutes later the patrol canters into the courtyard of the garrison. Halpin greets the man in the breastplate with a loud shout "Maximus, you old dog. I thought you had retired?" The man with the breastplate slides off his horse and hands the reins to one of the waiting guardsmen "Halpin you young buck. Who have you offended so greatly that you are still manning this forsaken outpost?" Maximus is an older gentleman, just about 6 foot tall, grey hair going bald. He looks like he was once a powerful man, but age is getting the better of him. However, he moves and talks like a seasoned veteran.
Maximus walks over to Halpin and the two shake hands like old friends. The riders start to dismount and the Schon guardsmen rush to help them with their horses and the extras. Over the din the party hears a slight cough and Maximus turns and sees that the lady is still sitting on her horse. The Bhyoian turns and shouts "Dammit Flavius help the Ambassador down from her horse." He turns to the lady "I am sorry, you Ladyship, my corporal is new and still learning." The lady nods as she is helped down from her mount by a young man. She turns to Maximus "I assume he will be properly chastised for his inattention?"
Maximus grimaces but nods "Yes, your Ladyship, 10 lashes. Flavius, take the Lady's gear to her room and then report to the Sergeant after chow for chastisement." The young corporal, fear in his eyes, nods. He then hurries to one of the horses that has a few bags on it and starts unlashing the baggage. Maximus turns back to Halpin "So what's up." The Lt. gestures to the party and makes introductions. When he is done introducing the party he gestures to Maximus "This is Marcus Aurelius Maximus, Centurion of the Army of Bhyo and good friend." Maximus bows to the party "A pleasure to meet you all." He then motions for the lady to join him. "May I present the Lady Collette De Blum, Lady of the Court and Ambassador to the Dwarves from Byho?" De Blum executes a perfect curtsy. "I am honored to meet you all."
With the light fading Halpin suggests that they all head inside "We have food and a warm fire ready for everyone."
OODM: Any role playing you want to do or questions you want to ask.
From: Derek
Subject: Back on the road
OOC: Retcon on Ally's conversation yesterday . I didn't know the convention on Elven names.
IC:
"I was at the great Elven University outside of the capitol. I actually was sponsored to study there for 5 years, it was some agreement that the mages in Gorn had made with the elven wizards there. Since Elven instruction in magic is more relaxed and esoteric than the guild style of instruction most humans learn by, I was never with any mage for a long time. Some of the greatest venerable wizards there actually came to seek me out, since human visitors at the mage school itself are rare. The venerable Ohn-Ell himself spoke with me once, he wanted to 'see how magic had been progressing among these human upstarts' as he put it."
"I actually spend a lot of my time studying with another student named Sün-Ril. Even though the elders considered her a student still, she had been there for over a century and was very knowledgeable. She had a natural gift for magic and was able to teach me how to remember some of my spells without even having to read them in my spellbook."
From: Bryan
Subject: Maximus
Surin waits for one of the less prosperous looking individuals of the Byho contingent to move away from the main party. As the man moves out of earshot of the main party, Surin engages him in conversation. After some small talk, Surin reaches the question he wanted to ask. He cautiously broaches the topic, taking care not to offend. "Who is the Ambassador? She must be quite the personage for a Corporal to be taking ten lashes for simply being slow to help her from her horse." Surin muses as if to himself: "I wonder if the merit is in some title, or simply in the title of Ambassador itself?"