Danger, shapechange, giant, ID and stuff
Subject Harp falls
Kal's charge stops dead when he sees the ogre fall. He watches intensely as the healers do their work on Harp, staying back behind the group, out of the healers' way. When Harp finally speaks, Kal kneels, relieved, and says a quick prayer of thank you. When he finishes he rises quickly and looks to see if he was noticed. It seems that everyone was distracted by Harp, though.
From: Derek
Subject Shape change
Allistair is also relieved that Harp is not dead, but only severely injured. The blessings from Ragnar and Salix should have him up and about in no time. Allistair asks Mund if he's all right. "If you still want to be turned into a giant, it will heal you a little bit also."
From: Porter
Subject Shape change
Mund says "Sure. I wouldn't mind that. It will also make it easier for us to move these bodies around to see what there is to see."
From: Derek
Subject Shape change
Allistair casts Polymorph on Mund, turning him into a Hill Giant.
"This should last about 7 minutes. I suggest you move all the ogre corpses first. We'll move the heaviest stuff first, and make sure they are all really dead at the same time."
From: Porter
Subject Shape change
Mund enjoys looking down at the field of battle. Too bad that he didn't get a chance wrassle those ogres before they're dead.
Mund bellows down to Surin "Hey, little buddy! I'm gonna be rolling over these dead uglies. Wanna bring your sharp eyes over to see if you see anything I don't? I can easily give you a lift, iff'n you want."
From: Karl
Subject Shape change
Fine," Salix says. "Ragnar is attending to Harp anyway. However we must be quick. We can't let this delay our journey to the grove."
Salix moves with the others to check out the site, looking for anything unusual or of interest.
(OOC - is there anything that Salix sees that would lead him to believe this is anything *other* than a routine attack on a normal caravan? So far I haven't picked up any reason for Salix to justify moving on once the danger is past.)
From: Kevin
Subject Healing
Harp lays there, oozing but not dieing (sp?).
From: Mark
Subject Danger
Do you mean that Salix has not picked up any reason to not move on once the danger has passed?
From: Mark
Subject Giant
Just know that Mund will make a small giant. The new form is limited to 7 HD as per the spell description.
From: Porter
Subject Giant
So how tall is he?
From: Mark
Subject Giant
I will have to check when I get home.
From: Karl
Subject Danger
Well, I mean both. Is there some reason *I* am too dense to see that would indicate this is more than a common (if tragic) encounter? I mean these caravans travel knowing there are raids and bandits in this area, and two out of two times Salix has seen raids in this spot. So, if there's more to it, *I'm* not picking it up. Salix is probably smarter than me, though, when it comes to this area and woods travel, etc, in general, so if *HE* picks up anything that would let *ME* know he'd do otherwise than move on, please let me know.
Make sense?
From: Mark
Subject Danger
Yes.
So far there is nothing here that leads anyone to suspect that this is anything other than a normal raid from the mountains along a well traveled trade route.
From: Kevin
Subject Giant
He is 7HD tall, it should be obvious. It is a new off shoot of the metric system.
From: Porter
Subject Giant
What is that in furlongs?
From: Kevin
Subject Giant
I think it is 2 stone.
From: Kevin
Subject Stuff
If Harp were able, he would want someone to look at the armor and club of the ogre that took him down. There was something not natural about that stuff. When and if he gets healed up enough to contribute this, he will do so.
OOC: Mark, Harp also has all of his own healing prayers left - he will use those to top off Ragnars if needed. Or, he can use them on Mund.
From: Derek
Subject ID
Allistair does have ID memorized, so have Harp ask away as soon as he's done with Mund.
From: Anthony
Subject Stuff
The ogres are killed off, and so Ran puts his weapons away before looking around. The bodies are still strewn across the field, and so he watched carefully, particularly the ones that had been "dead" before the battle began. He was no genius, but he knew not to completely ignore them.
He goes over quickly to Mund, as Salix yelled. "Alright!" he calls back before following Allistair over.
From: Ashley
Subject Stuff
"Sure Mund -- I already checked out those ones over there [OOC: "Over There" being the two lumps on the right side of the map], they're already dead. I got pretty far before that big one heard me and came barrelling after you all. Some might still be faking, though, so you're good to keep a heads up
OOC: Mark, the two "alive and faking" ogres were the ones that got up and were then killed, right? If not Surin will let Mund know which ogre he knows about that is still alive and faking
From: Porter
Subject Stuff
OK. I'm gonna be rolling them all over just in case."
From: Mark
Subject Stuff
Correct.
From: Mark
Subject Stuff
Ragnar rushes to Salix's side. Harp is still unconscious but alive. Handing him over to Ragnar, Salix turns to the others. "Allistair and Ran, see to Mund. Surin, you and Kal take a look around. See if there are any more surprises. I will be over in a bit to help. Call us if you need anything." Salix bends back down to see how the 1/2 orc is doing. "He'll live" the dwarf replies. "Give me some time with him and I'll have him fit to ride." Salix nods and heads over towards Mund.
As he approaches he hears Allistair talking about changing Mund into one of those ogre types so that he could move the bodies away. Salix nods approval but warns that they must be on the road again soon. Mund seems eager and Allistair chants his spell and lays his hands on his brother. Mund's flesh starts to flow and he starts to grow (heal 7HP). His armor shifts with him and seconds latter there is a new large Mund looking ogre. He goes over and starts picking up ogre bodies and clearing them out of the way. Within minutes all of the bodies, human and ogre are well out of the way. After the seven minutes Mund stops and his body flows back to his original shape. A huge smile is on the barbarians face.
All the while Ragnar is working on Harp. He sacrifices his most powerful prayer for healing( heal 27) and Harp is soon able to stand and walk. Harp feels the bones move and knit back together. His shoulder pops back into socket and his vision clears so that he no longer sees three Ragnar's. He still has a massive head ache and his chest still burns.
Kal and Surin make a quick search and come up with a lot of stuff. In addition to the greatclub and the armor that was found on the leader of the ogres, they found a ring on one of his fingers. On the bodies and in the cart they find the following:
2 black pearls
1 heavy pick
1 large well made woolen tapestry
dwarven waraxe
1 spiked chain
1 trident
1 composite short bow
60 pp
600 gp
2000 sp
small dark wood shield
thieves tools
heavy steel shield
4 scrolls in a scroll case
ring
large greatclub
large hide armor
Most of the stuff looks like it might have been part of the caravan. Underneath the caravan Surin finds the body of a well dress man. The money and the gems had been in a large wooden box in a sack carried by the leader of the ogres. The other items had been in the wagon itself.
OODM: I have things to do tonight so I am stopping here. I will write more tomorrow night but you guys can do RP if you want.
From: Josh
Subject Stuff
Kal says to Allistar: "What would happen if Mund grabbed one of the ogre's weapons or armor? If he put it on, would it shrink back down when the spell's effects wore off?"
From: Josh
Subject Magic?
Kal will cast detect magic to see if anything in the pile is magical.
From: Kevin
Subject Time of day
Mark, what time of day is it now?
Magic items, where from, the goal
Subject Magic stuff
The ring, the great club, the hide armor and the steel shield all radiate low level magic. As do the scrolls in the case.
From: Karl
Subject Where from?
"Can we tell where these people were coming from? Or where they might have been heading?" Salix asks the group at large.
(OOC - Mark, what are the laws of the land regarding plunder from a situation such as this? Or in our case, basically . . . what? Scavenging? Salvaging? Looting?? Do we have a legal obligation to restore loot to survivors? Or is this a 'finders keepers' kind of thing? Salix would know, I should think, and I'm playing him as lawful/neutral so it's an important point.)
From: Mark
Subject Where from?
If there were any survivors a lawful person might try and return or help them.
If there are no survivors and since it is out in the wilds there would be no obligation to return the stuff. Sending a message to a local authority might be a nice gesture.
The uniforms and dress of the merchant look like something out of Undulant.
From: Karl
Subject Where from?
Well, I'm using "survivor" like in an obituary. Surely this caravan doesn't constitute the total bloodlines of everyone present. At least some of them are bound to have "surviving" relatives in either the city they came from or the city they were heading to. I think a morally "good" person in *our* culture might make some effort to find surviving family and restore their belongings. However, I think it's also very conceivable that the culture we are playing in would recognize no such act as a moral *obligation* even among the self-described "good" people. I'm just asking for clarification if that's the case. I think you answered the "lawful/unlawful" question though.
As for Salix, if it's not breaking any laws, he's not really going to raise the question. To him it's just "stuff". If it gets divided he'll take his share (the bulk of which he'll give to the Druid order).
He'll still try to find out where the caravan came from and make sure it gets reported when he gets to some outpost or to the Druid grove.
From: Mark
Subject Where from?
There is surprisingly little information about where the caravan is coming from or where it is headed to.
From: Karl
Subject Where from?
Just as well then. One less thing for salix to worry about.
;-)
From: Derek
Subject polymorph
Allistair thinks for a moment. "I don't think so. The effects of the spell are only temporary at best, so when the spell ends, everything reverts to it's original size and form."
From: Derek
Subject Magic items
Allistair will cast Identify on the ring. Tomorrow he will memorize ID 7 times so he can identify the other three items and the scrolls.
From: Mark
Subject polymorph
OOC: this is correct. Since he put the armor on after the spell, it would not be affected by the spell. However, his own armor is affected by the spell and grows and shrinks with him.
From: Mark
Subject Magic items
Does he have all the the 100gp pearls? Each casting takes a 100gp pearl IIRC.
From: Anthony
Subject Magic items and the goal
Ran looks at the equipment for a mometn then steps back, letting the good magician figure out what they are. He, after all, doesn't possess any magical abilities, so in this case he's no help. So, while they're still identifying the magic in the items, he goes off a bit ahead, to see if anyone else is coming, or, if somehow they missed some ogre or other enemy, if he could find whether or not there is any evidence for it.
(OOC: What exactly were they doing by the time they ran into the ogres? I wasn't here before that, so I'm uncertain exactly of, er... what the main goal was. That'd help, now that the immediacy of battle is done.)
From: Mark
Subject The goal
The party is riding hard to get to the main druid grove of Salix's order of druids. Just after the noon time lunch break the crested a hill and saw the remains of the attack in the valley below. This is near the Pass of Undulant, which is a pass in the mountains through the mountains to the south. The last time the part was along this way they found the remains of the caravan that was escorting Angelwings bride, Rochelle, to Schon.
Right now the main goal is for the party to get to the druid grove in about a week. They are less than 1/2 way there.
From: Derek
Subject magic items
Allistair explains to the group. "I have the ability to identify these magical items and scrolls, but I need a rare pearl worth 100 gp each time I cast the spell, which I currently lack. I might be able to read the scrolls as they are, but if they were cursed I would be at the mercy of the curse. I suggest we take them along with us, and when we have a chance to rest in a city we can identify them and then use them or sell them as we see fit."
From: Porter
Subject Magic items
"How about we try the stuff out and see what it does? Pass me that ring, OK?"
From: Derek
Subject Magic items
"That might not be a good idea," Allistair interjects hastily. "What if the item is cursed? You might go blind, weak and feeble, become a woman, who knows? Curses are never good, and magical identification is the only safe way around it."
From: Anthony
Subject Magic items
Ran watched the little disagreement and stepped forward. "In that case, if we decide to use them, we should have only one person try them all. And you're sure there's no other way to figure them out? How far is the nearest town, on our route, again?"
From: Josh
Subject Magic items
Kal laughs when Allistar suggests Mund might turn into a woman.
From: Porter
Subject Magic items
"Cursed? Who would go to the bother of making a magic item just to curse it? Toss it here, I want to try it out."
From: Josh
Subject Magic items
Kal's laughing pretty hard now.
From: Kevin
Subject magic items
Harp listens a bit as Mund and his brother talk about the items that had been deemed magical.
"Mund, even if you put the ring on you might not know what it does right away. This ring Anglewing gave me, for example, had almost no effect when I first put it on. Now, as some of you may have noticed, I hardly need to sleep and I don't have to eat much of anything. The magic on these things could be the same. Granted, that not very likely for that damn club or his armor, but that ring or scolls could be a different story."
With that, Harp collapses back down, trying to save his strength for the ride to come.
From: Porter
SubjectMagic items
Mund gets tired of waiting for somebody to give him the ring, so he walks over and picks up the club, hefting it experimentally.
From: Porter
Subject Magic items
Mund grunts as he lifts the club. Even with both hands, there's no way he could use it effectively.
"Who would make a magic club this big? Any of y'all ever heard of a magicker making stuff for ogres?
He puts the club down and picks up the ring. He looks at it closely.
OOC: How big is this ring -- human or ogre sized? Is it simple or intricate?
From: Mark
Subject Magic items
It is larger than would go on a normal sized hand. It might fit over the thumb or the middle finger.
It is fairly plain, made of silver. There are some engravings on it but they have been dented and smashed. It is impossible to tell what they were carvings of.
From: Ashley
Subject Magic items
"If they had any papers on them, we might know for sure, but so far Kal and I haven't been able to find any. I've heard of traders from Undulant getting goods from these parts and hawking them on the black market. I figure this isn't but a smuggling operation turned sour."
Turn
Subject Turn
I want to apologize for not getting anything out today. I just spent the last 7 hours waiting for Roto Rooter to show up and I need to leave the phone line clear in case they called. I will get something out tomorrow.
Back on the road
Subject Back on the road
As the party examines the loot Allistair explains the problems with identifying the magical items. Mund is all for just trying them out and is a bit put out when everyone seems opposed to the idea. He tries swinging the greatclub a couple of times but gives up quickly. "How are we going to carry all of this?" Salix asks, more to himself then the others. "Allistair pipes up. "I can help with that. Lothnar's gift. It can carry a lot more than it looks like. There is some space constraints, but if you let me carry the denser stuff, we should be fine. Tonight at camp Kal and I will take a closer look at the items and we might be able to give you a better idea of what they are."
Salix nods and turns to Harp. "Can you ride? This little diversion has cost us time that we must make up." Harp nods even as he winces. "I have little choice. Let's get moving." The next few minutes see the party members loading things into Allistair's bag and strapping the rest on to the horses. When everything is stored, the party is off again.
They ride for the rest of the day and stop well after dark. The hard pace has not been kind to Harp or to Mund or Ran. As they make camp for the night Ragnar and Harp make the rounds healing one of the three wounded. Ragnar has Harp feeling like nothing had happened with only two healing prayers (CSW 29+CModW,16=45). The dwarf then goes to Mund and does the same (CSW 26+ CmodW 20=46). The barbarian is surprised to feel the crushed ribs and the headache fall way like they had never been there.
Harp then goes to see to Ran's needs. Laying hands on his friends wounds, he prays to the battle lord to heal Ranthir (CmodW, 12+CLW 5=17). When he is done the 1/2 elf has only a small bruise left. The party eats a quick dinner before Salix tells them about some changes for the night. "We need to adjust the guard schedule for this night. Brother Ragnar needs his full nights sleep, as does Allistair. We need the arcane power that Allistair can bring and we have all seen the powerful healing that Brother Ragnar can bring when rested. So the remaining five of us will split the watches, with Harp taking a double watch, through the middle of the night, when it is darkest."
"In the morning, Allistair and Ragnar will be allowed the time needed to prepare themselves for the day while the rest of us break camp. If nothing waylays us on the morrow, the rest of you who need to pray or prepare will be able to do so the morning after, as Allistair and Ragnar will be able to stand watch with Surin and Ranthir and Mund. Now we must start early tomorrow, so lets head to bed.
The next several days pass in a blur. The weather changes from hot to wet to windy and back. They are constantly in the saddle or making camp or sleeping. The horses keep going but it is obvious to Salix that the pace is taking its toll. Even Mund comments on it as he is picketing them one night. "I know, but our need is great. Once we get to the grove, there are other druids there who specialize in animal care. They can work wonders. The horses are in pain, but so are we. Luckily I think we only have another two days before we reach the grove. Then we can rest some."
OODM: Anything you guys want to do or say go ahead. I might write more tonight.
On to Lodo, baby
Subject On to Lodo
The next two days sees the party turn more north, taking a branching road, heading towards Lodo, the capitol of Eld. The druids of the Great North Woods have always had a good relationship with the Council of Eld, sometimes called the Elders. At the end of the 14 day the party comes with in sight of the city. The city is large by the standards of the area but still 1/3 the size of Gorn.
As they approach the southern gate the guards call out, asking them to identify themselves. Salix goes forward to explain who the party is. At the mention of the druids the guards tone take a change for the better. They pass the party through on Salix's word alone and give them directions to a good near by inn. As much as Salix wants to get to the grove, he knows that all of them need a good nights sleep.
While they are eating Allistair mentions that he hopes he can find a mage in town that can identify the magic stuff the party got off of the ogres. Salix cuts him short. "We will not have time to look for any mage. We must be gone with the first light. The main grove is still half a days journey east from here, but the going will be slower, since we must travel through woods a good portion of the way. We will be late as it is. Sorry." Allistair looks a bit disgruntled by this but goes along with it.
Salix makes good on his promise that they would be moving at first light. He has the party mounted and at the Druid gate just as the sun starts to peak over the forest to the east. This is the first good look many of the party has had of the Great North Woods. It looks like a wall of green and brown that stretches north and south east for as far as the eye can see. When the gate opens Salix leads the party off the main road and across the fields surrounding the city. With in an hour they are entering the outskirts of the woods. Even in his worn out condition, Salix is glad to be back home.
This part of the woods is surprisingly tame. Salix explains that 40-50 miles of the edge of the forest is more patrolled by the druids then the inner parts. The more dangerous inner woods are left more to themselves and people enter there at their own risk. The trees of the woods are all large and well kept. Oaks, elms, populars, ash groves, beech and dozens of species the others have never seen before.
As the morning goes on the path gets narrower and narrower. If Salix had not been with them they are sure that they would be at a stand still. About an hour before noon Surin rides up next to Salix and whispers "We're being watched." Salix laughs. "We've been watched for the past hour. The dryads have been keeping an eye on us and reporting back to the local druid, I would expect. We will be at the grove in an hour, so I expect we will meet an envoy from them before too long." Surin looks a bit shocked that they had been watched for the past hour and that he had not noticed it.
As Salix had predicted, within 10 minutes the party comes upon a single figure standing in the path ahead of them. He seemed to just appear, about 50 feet ahead of them. A large wooden staff in hand, he holds up a hand and calls "Who seeks entrance to the Great North Woods?"
OODM: Any roll play you want to do either for the trip of this is fine.
From: Derek
Subject Baby
OOC: My wife Ryoko gave birth to a baby girl this afternoon. We're naming her Eren. No complications, everything is fine. Porter can take over for Allistair for the next couple of days.
From: Mark
Subject Baby
Congrats. Send a pic when you get a chance.
Baby, Lantono
Subject Baby
Congratulations!!
Hope everyone is hale and happy!
From: Kevin
Subject Baby
Congratulations Derek.
Best wishes to you, your wife and to little Eren.
Glad all is well. maybe as a present you will get 7 pearls worth 100 g.p.
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
"I am Salix, Wealdward of the Great North Woods," Salix replies formally, then adds "and I am glad to be home." He motions for the others to stay put as he dismounts and approaches the figure in their path. "I come with a party of valiant companions assembled on orders of The Stormfather given to me by MountainSister Sephira." As he draws closer, he thinks he recognizes the figure in their path. "I know you, don't I? Wealdward Lantono isn't it?"
From: Mark
Subject Lantono
The man's face turns dark. "I am Gladebrother Lantono and I have heard nothing of this. What proof do you have of your words?"
From: Randy
Subject Baby
Congratulations!
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
Salix blushes. "I apologize. *Gladebrother* Lantono. I did not know you had been so honored. I've been away for many months. I have no proof other than my word - which has been sufficient in the past - but if you have reason to doubt me you can send word to the Council. They should be expecting our arrival."
(OOC - I almost said "send word to MtnS Sephira, but re-reading our scene with her, I'm not sure if she's meeting us here or where SFthr Acer was headed. At any rate, we *were* told to present ourselves to the council head.)
From: Porter
Subject Lantono
Mund brings his horse up beside Salix's horse in a move that could be considered friendly, supportive, or preparatory for a fight.
From: Mark
Subject Lantono
"I will send word, Wealward." The druid chants a prayer and a robin comes down from one of the trees. The man trills at it and then turns back to Salix. "Who are these with you?" As Salix repeats the party members names, the other druid trills and chirps at the bird some more. When the introductions are done the druid motions for the bird to go. "You and the others will wait here until the Council has sent a message back."
As the party waits Lantono wonders around the party's horses. He gives several disgusted looks at Salix's back when he sees the condition that the animals are in.
From: Porter
Subject Lantono
Mund leans over and quietly asks "Do you want to wait until this flunkie is satisfied, or do you want to go on ahead? I can keep him occupied if you want to get to the council as soon as possible."
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
Salix motions for the others to dismount. "May we attend to the horses at least while we wait? MntS Sephira felt that speed was critical and even gave us hurtloam to aid us, but even with that the horses have been taxed severely, such is the urgent nature of this mission."
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
Salix replies quietly, "No, this will be fine. I had heard Lantono can be a petty tyrant when he thinks he's in a position of authority, but he is well within protocol so far. We will wait for a return message."
From: Mark
Subject Lantono
A sharp comment dies in Lantono's mouth at Salix's comments. "Hurtloam? She gave you hurtloam? Yes, yes, by all means tend to your horses, but in my opinion, nothing would help them more than several weeks rest. Assuming the bird does not get lost, we should hear with in the hour." Lantono then takes up position several yards away, keeping an eye on the party.
From: Porter
Subject Lantono
Whatever. With how we've mistreated these beasts (and ourselves) to get there as soon as possible, I wouldn't even blink at continuing through and annoying a prick like that. But since we're not, I'll be take nap while you're playing nice with Lantonto."
From: Karl
SubjectLantono
"Is there any reason we need to wait *here*?" Salix asks. "I *am* a member of this order and these are my guests. I should be able to at least lead them to guest quarters. If we are to present ourselves to the council shortly, common courtesy dictates an opportunity to wash up from our travels."
From: Mark
Subject Lantono
"Oh you may go ahead, but these "outsiders" must stay here." The contempt in the druids voice is obvious to all. I have been given the duty to guard the way to the enclave, Wealward, and I plan on doing just that. Your companions may take their rest over by that tree." He points to an old oak tree that has seen better days. It looks like it has been hit by lightnening. There are burn marks and many dead branches.
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
Salix says quietly to Mund, "You can rest assured he is not the only barrier to save passage further in. If he truly has had no word of our coming, then I don't know who else might have. We wouldn't get 50 feet past this point if we were viewed as a threat."
From: Jason
Subject Lantono
Ragnar is glad when they finally reach the edge of the Great North Woods. Quite aside from the fact that it meant they were near their destination, it meant that they could no longer travel at the bone-jarring speed he had been suffering through the last two weeks. When the party slows to a walk on entering the woods, he immediately composes a heartfelt (if slightly incoherent) prayer of thanks. Unlike many dwarves he had met, he liked woodlands in a general way, whereas these horses must have been planted in their stables by Hextor himself.
Why the larger races never seemed to trust their own feet baffled Ragnar. First the ship, and now these galloping horses. While he does realize that the ship was far worse, it was also several weeks in the past and these last few days he hasn't been able to shake the feeling he's never been so miserable in his life.
When they finally meet someone, he appears so suddenly before them its as if he had teleported. Ragnar had seen a wizard teleport out of the chapterhouse one day after consulting with the head of their order. Now if you weren't going to walk, that was certainly the way to travel. None of this messing around with horses or boats.
From what he can tell though, this druid wasn't the one they'd been sent to meet. That was just as well, because Ragnar had taken an almost instant disliking to him, and that was not a common occurrence. From the way he seemed to take offense over such a trivial thing as a misused title to the way he seems almost contemptuous of Ragnar's friend Salix, everything about him grates on the dwarves sense of goodness. When Mund moves his horse in a partially supportive, yet vaguely threatening stance, Ragnar for once agrees with the impetuous human.
Still, if he wasn't who they were there to meet, he would be simple enough to deal with. There was no reason for Ragnar to talk to him, so he wouldn't unless asked a direct question.
OOC: Or maybe he'll do this: http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0352.html (Ragnar after 2 weeks on a galloping horse, on being confronted by an arrogant druid.)
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
(OOC - Mark, how far is the grove from where we are? How long does Salix think it would take to get to someone with more authority than Lantono and get back?)
Salix looks at the tired, irritated faces of his companions and doubts the wisdom of leaving them alone with Lantono even for a minute. "I will rest where my friends rest. Your hospitality will be duly noted when I speak with The Council," Salix replies. He leads the group toward the indicated tree. In truth, after the ride they had all had, the spotty shade of the old tree was a welcome site, despite the intended insult.
Once the horses have been watered and the group has retreated to the old tree, Salix says, "I appologize for my fellow druid. We are not all as unwelcoming as he seems to be."
From: Porter
Subject Lantono
Unbelieving, Mund says, "Well, if they're as tough as they are rude, you might be right."
With this, he lays out under the tree, puts his hat over his face, and takes a nap.
From: Mark
Subject Lantono
It would seem to be about 1/2 hour away as the robin flys.
From: Karl
Subject Lantono
Moot at this point. Salix is going to hang with the others until an answer comes.
From: Anthony
Subject Lantono
Ran watched the foul druid with the interest of someone sizing up a potential enemy. The man had an arrogant confidence aobut him. The arrogance, of course, might indicate a souce of weakness, though the confidence... he figured the man was quite strong, and this apart from the fact he appeared as if from nowhere in front of them.
Yes, he was tired from the long ride, but he was able enough to draw his sword if necessarry. He'd been watching to the best of his ability for most of the ride, and now he wasn't going to let his guard down just for this weasilly druid.
Ran ended up sitting under the tree next to Ragnar, and after allowing himself some relaxation by sitting down, glanced over to him and whispered to him.
"this guy's a member of Salix's order? I'll say one thing, he'd better not end up in a dark alley alone with me."
From: Jason
Subject Lantono
"No joke," mutters Ragnar, who appears slightly startled at his own words.
"Well, I'm sure he's just concerned about the woodlands," he says in a slightly more concilliatory voice. Then he snorts. "Not that we would dare try anything in the presence of a *Gladebrother*, who is such a "krouthu* that the council didn't even bother to let him know we were coming."
Waiting, MountainFather
Subject Waiting
"Yes, I know what you mean," ::he said, still whispering. "No need to cause trouble. It'd only make things worse, yes. But still... how I'd like to smash this schutzpah's skull in..." He laughed then, and grinned maliciously. "Yes... his job must be to scare people away by giving everyone a bad impression of the druids, huh?"
From: Porter
Subject Waiting
"I do declare, I think I'm rubbing off on y'all," Mund says with a smile.
From: Karl
Subject Waiting
If Salix hears this exchange, he gives no indication. He is far more preoccupied with worry over the Stormfather and disappointment in the way he is being received after two years away from home, serving The Council. He sits with his friends, his back against the dying oak. He closes his eyes and makes to nap, like Mund, but is for the most part unsuccessful.
From: Kevin
Subject Waiting
"Don't be too hard on the guy. I mean, he has to spend his whole day standing out here in the forest with no one to talk to and nothing really to do. I know I would probably get a little grumpy if I had to do that all day" Harp says to the others.
From: Porter
Subject Waiting
"Ha! You get grumpy anyway," Mund jokes to Harp as he rolls over and captures Harps ankle and performs a slow-motion trip.
From: Kevin
Subject Waiting
OOC: Mark, make a DEX check to see what happens to Harp. Since it was a slow motion trip, say a DC10 - if he fails, he falls. If he succeeds by more than 5, he can try to reverse the action on Mund?
From: Mark
Subject Randy and Anthony
Randy is now back and able to take over Ran. I want to thank Anthony for his effort and we might be seeing more of him in the future.
Thanks Anthony.
From: Porter
Subject Waiting
Mund isn't trying to do a real trip.
It's like when guys sometimes go up and "box" with each other, or "punch" each other in the stomach.
If Harp plays along, he'll either go down, or start a pseudo-grapple with Mund.
If he doesn't play along, he'll just step out of it and that will be that.
From: Kevin
Subject Waiting
OOC: I know it was meant in fun, but sometimes the fun can be turned the other way. I am just trying to see what happens and try to have some fun with it. Harp might not be able to trip Mund back, but IF he has a high enough roll, he might be able to do something "creative" with this mock trip attempt.
I am just trying to add some flavor here guys. Its called roll playing.
From: Mark
Subject MountainFather
Over the next 1/2 hour the party relaxes. Mund and Harp spend some time messing around, wrestling and part mock fighting. With out the burden of command, the 1/2 orc seems almost like a different person. Gladebrother Lantono watches with a look of disgust. Harp can hear a few muttered comments about orc and half breeds that the druid mutters under his breath but the 1/2 orc is having such a good time he ignores it.
Just as Harp and Mund are settling down from their rough housing, two more druids come walking down the path. When Lantono sees them he gets up quickly and brushes off his robes. He does his best to make sure everything is in order when the two walk up. The party all stands and moves a bit close, but are still 10 feet away when one of the two figures starts to talk.
"Gladebrother Lantono" the older man says. The tone of his voice seems harsh. Lantono's voice quivers a bit as he replies "Yes MountainFather?" "Did you not get the message squirrle that was sent out almost two weeks ago, telling you that we were expecting guest from outside our woods? Did you not see that the message was sent by the Council itself?" The man's voice becomes sterner and sterner as he speaks and Lantono seems to shrivel under his stare.
Lantono tries to mumble a reply, something about so many message squirrels and how they are not the most dependable messangers. The other druid holds up a hand siliencing the younger druid. "I am not interested in your excuses. These travellers have been asked here by Stormfather Acer and you waste time. Why don't you go watch over the mushroom farms in the caves. This acolyte will take over as guard here." Lantono looks like he is about to argue but the look on the MountainFathers face brooks no compromise. Shooting Salix and the others a dark look, Lantono stomps off to the north.
The older druid turns to Salix and the party. "Ah Salix, you return at last. It has been many years. But where are my manners." He turns to the others "I am MountainFather Flint. The council awaits. Come with me. We walk from here." He turns to the acolyte and instructs him to summon help and care for the horses.
OODM: Any role play you want to do go ahead.
From: Porter
Subject MountainFather
At the courteous reception from the mountain father and the rebuke of the twerp, Mund says to Salix with an elbow to the ribs, "Now this is just confusing. How am I supposed to keep up my dislike of godsfolk when some of them are nice to me?"
From: Karl
Subject Waiting
And see, Porter is "Role" playing. There's your disconnect. ;-)
From: Karl
Subject MountainFather
Salix, his mind set for an hour of waiting is actually caught by surprise to see the two figures walking down the path. He doesn't know the younger one, indeed he would probably have still been with the sprouts when Salix left the order under Quarion. But the older fellow was a welcome sight. It was all he could do to keep his silence while the MountainFather rebuked Lantono. Tending the mushroom farms indeed. Well, at least there the smell would justify the perpetual sour look on his face.
"Honored MountainFather," Salix begins formally once they are walking the path further into the forest, "It is good to see you again."
"You don't need to be so formal, young Salix," Flint replies. "At least not until we reach The Council Grove. My how you've grown up since you were in my class." Flint turns and nudges Mund, "Bright kid, this one, but such a one-track mind. Always wanted to learn about *trees* and *flowers* and the other plants of the Mountain. Couldn't get him interested in the Mountain *itself*. Rock. Metals. That's where the strength of a mountain comes from!" Salix looks down, blushing slightly.
"I've branched out a bit since your lessons," Salix responds. "In fact - "
"Oh, I'm only having fun. Of course we all know how versatile you've become. Some druids never leave the woods. You've already left the dimension, or so we hear. You'll have to tell me about it sometime."
The party walks on for what seems like half a mile when Ran asks, "When do we get to town?"
Surin, who hasn't stopped peering intently into the forest shadows ever since noticing they were being watched elbow Ran and points up to his right and again over to his left. "I think we're already there." Sure enough, the group looks up and after a minute can see that what looked like just somewhat thicker than average branch clusters in the trees were really cleverly hidden dwellings. At least they could see that in the closest ones, but the further they looked the harder it was to distinguish artificial structures from the natural growth of the forest itself. Salix and the MountainFather just exchange knowing smiles.
"Yes, Surin isn't it? You are right. Right now we're in one of the residence clusters. You've already seen the southern barracks - well, maybe you didn't, but you were practically under them when you were so warmly greeted by GladeBrother Lantono. A little further in we'll pass through one of the schooling areas before we get to The Grove - unless they've moved it. I've heard they might have, or will soon."
Salix explains, "The city is basically layed out in a very large circle around The Grove, with like structures clustered together in districts. There's normally a fair bit of space between each cluster, and we move them from time to time to minimize the impact on the forest. We have to let the trees heal and we don't want to shadow an area for more than a season or two. The Grove is in the center. It's on a hill and looking down from there it's easier to see the various districts.
Sure enough as the group progressed further into the city, the trees began to thin and town buildings were more obvious. The buildings seemed a bit closer together, and some were even on the forest floor. Still, it looked more like an encampment (albeit an enormous one) than a proper city. The buildings ended at the foot of a tall grassy hill - or very small mountain - which rose gently from this point but looked like it might drop off sharply on the other sides. Really it wasn't quite a mountain, but it did rise well above the tallest trees of this part of the forest. Way at the top the party could see what looked to be an ancient ring of stones, some upright and some stacked on top of others. MountainFather Flint motions the group to a stop.
"The word went out for The Council to assemble as soon as we heard you had arrived. The Council Grove is the most sacred place of the druids of the Great North Woods. We trust you will respect its sacred nature. Salix will show you how to prepare yourselves. I will wait here."
Salix nods and leads the group over to a tent at the edge of a thick grove of pine. Passing through the tent, they find themselves outside again, but in a small glen backed against a rocky face of the Grove hill, and surrounded by a thick copse of pine trees. "We must wash and change here. We can leave our gear in the tent over there, wash in the pool at the back and put on one of those robes." Salix points to several brilliantly white robes of various sizes, some tiny and some huge, but most medium sized all hanging from wooden pegs driven into a polished and ornately carved cross-beam hung from the branches of one of the pines. He leads them to the back of the glen where there is a large pool, apparently fed from a hot spring since steam was rising from its surface. "Take off your armor and clothes and leave them there, then wash up here," he says as he promptly disrobes and steps down into the pool. "We shouldn't take too long since MountainFather Flint and the Council will be waiting."
From: Mark
Subject MountainFather
I want Karl to write my game for me. :)
Great turn.
From: Jason
Subject MountainFather
I actually had to go back and check to see who that was from, when halfway through it I thought Mark might have been the author
From: Mark
Subject MountainFather
And Jason thought, wow, after almost a year, who would have thoght that Mark could learn to write over night. :)
From: Ashley
Subject Randy and Anthony
Way to go Anthony! With any luck you'll play Mark's upcoming supervillian!
The cleansing
Subject The cleansing
Harp watches in wonder as they move through the forest. He was used to cities and never thought that you could live in the wild this way. Why, it was like a small city.
Hearing Salix's instructions to get cleaned up, Harp snaps to it. He was used to having to get prepped in short order. He strips off his armor and gear, puts them where shown, and gets down to the business of getting cleaned up. He had had little opportunity to do so over the last 2 weeks, and it felt good to get the dirt and dust of the road off, if even for a little while. After washing, Harp gets out of the spring, dries off, and dons the robe that had been supplied. He felt kind of awkward wearing this - he had not worn anything like it since he had first entered the Order four years ago. Well, he was in a place of power for Salix's god now, and he would have to trust that his friend would not lead him astray.
Cleaned up and clothed, Harp looks at Salix and gives a nod that he is ready to go.
From: Mark
Subject Cleansing
If anyone else wants to write something before the party meets the council go ahead. I have to go to an open house at my oldest school and that will be from 7-9 or so. I will get a turn out tonight but it will be late.
From: Ashley
Subject Cleansing
Surin can't help looking around curiously at all the sights of the encampment, peeling his eyes to spot the hidden dwellings and lookout points. Once he got over seeing them the first time, he found their presence oddly reassuring, like he was safe for the moment. This place would be a nightmare to attack, Surin figured, with the defenses up so high, and barely able to see at that. The thought gets him thinking about the logistics of the place, and he didn't snap out of it until he realized nearly everyone else was all ready and waiting by the pool. He practically jumps out of the pool and into his halfling-sized white robe, looking apologetic and trying to fix his wet hair with his hands.
Forest defense, turn
Subject Forest defense
Mund wonders how easy it would be to attack this place. A good fire would wipe them out. I wonder what magicks they could use to stop that from happening.
From: Mark
Subject turn
Sorry I did not get a turn out last night. Things ran latter than we thought they would.
I will try and get something out at lunch today.
From: Ashley
Subject Forest defense
Yeah, like the place is completely devoid of a bucket brigade. Or clerics who can create water. *rolleyes* :
From: Kevin
Subject Forest defense
Or how about someone who can control weather and summon up a rainstorm to put out the flames?
Maybe someone can control the weather, make a huge lightning strike and the sound will hurt the trees?? Boo-ya!!!!
The Council
Subject The Council
After so long in the saddle many of the party want to luxuriate in the warm water and the clean feeling they get bathing. Soreness seems to flow out of aching bones and sore muscles like water flowing out of a pitcher. Even Ragnar, whose fondness for swimming is only second to his fondness of horse back riding, takes a turn washing in the shallow end of the pool. However, Salix keeps them from taking too long and with in the hour the last of them are drying off and putting on the white robes. Just as Ragnar, the last one to finish, is adjusting his robe the MountainFather steps into the tent. He speaks with out hesitation "The Council is assembled. We must go." Mund is a bit surprised at the druids timing "How did you know we were all done?" Salix answers "A little bird told him" and then the two druids burst out in a fit of laughter. The rest of the party look at each other, not comprehending.
After a few seconds the two druids get control of themselves and notice the others staring at them. Salix blushes a little "Old druid joke. Sorry about that." The older druid slap Salix on the back, and his arm across his shoulder guides him out of the tent, talking to the younger druid as they go. The others look at each other and quickly follow the two. The MountainFather leads the party to a path that winds its way around and up the hill before them. The trees start thinning out even more and they can see that the top of the hill is tree free. The huge stones at the top loom as they approach the top of the hill.
The path leads around and then up to the top, coming in from the north. The stones stand almost 25 feet high in a ring around the top of the hill. There are 12 standing stones and 6 sets of stones set across others, forming an door way of sorts. The ring is almost 100 feet across. Sitting in the center of the ring are 11 men. The MountainFather leads the group through one of the stone gateways and to the center of the ring. He points to a spot several feet in front of the seated men and goes to join them. Salix motions for the others to take a seat on the ground and assumes the position himself.
One of the other druids speaks first. "Wealward Salix, I welcome you to the Druid Council. I am ForestFather Bindle and by consensus of the others, head of this Council." The greeting is very formalized and Salix recognizes it. "ForestFather, and honored druids, I come to you as requested by MountainSister Sephira and StormFather Acer. With me, as requested, I bring companions who have come willingly." Several of the druids nod favorably at this comment but a few scowl." Bindle nods. "Yes we know. Acer left a long note with us before he left and Sephira" here the druid tone takes on an odd tone " told us you were on your way here when she reported in almost two weeks ago. Then she followed after Acer."
He pauses for effect before continuing. "And we have heard nothing from either of them since they left. Some of us" he gestures to the Council "feel that we must go investigate in force. Other feel that we should heed Acer's thoughts. Acer felt that there might be something preying on the druids we sent. So far we have lost almost a dozen druids investigating whatever is going on up there and I am loathe to risk more. Acer thought that a group made up of non druids might have a better chance. You, young Salix, have had experience working with those outside of the order, so Acer thought you, and your friends, might be what was needed. Reluctantly, the Council has agreed."
He continues. "In the northern part of the Woods, beyond where most maps show, there is a town, just outside of the fringe of the forest. This town, Bodentown, is the last refuge for scoundrels and low lifes who can get to it from the Wildlands or anyplace else. They eek out a living with some trade, they do some logging, but we have kept that mainly under control. We have lived in peace with them until about a year or so ago. A new "Mayor" had been elected, it seems, and the town was getting more aggressive in it's attempts to use the woods. The the local druid started finding bad things. Animals killed. And I mean large animals, but not used for anything. Not meat, not fur, just killed and left to rot."
The local Wealward sent message and went to investigate. When we did not hear anything for two months, we sent a group of Wealward's. We never heard back from them. When we did not hear anything back from them Acer decided to go. It has now been two weeks and nothing from him. Understand, this a man who can move from one end of the forest to the other in a few hours at most. He would have been at the town with in an hour of leaving this grove. We fear the worst. And then Sephira, against orders, followed him and there has been no word from her either."
"We would ask you, Salix, and your friends to find out what is happening at Bodentown. Find the druids, if they still live and return them to us. We would warn you though, Salix, to be very careful. More than a dozen druids have been sent and disappeared. There may be something hunting druids and I fear you may be the prime target." He sighs and looks at the others. "Do you have any questions?"
OODM: Now is the time to ask questions.
From: Derek
Subject The Council
Allistair raises his hand. "Yes, Forestfather. Has any sort of divination or scrying been used to determine the what happened to any of the druids or where they might be? Also, did any of these druids send a message of any kind, regarding even the most mundane thing, after they left to go investigate Bodentown?"
From: Mark
Subject The Council
"Yes we have. We have attempted to scry on the druids sent and we see nothing. Either they are dead or warded. We have sent scouting animlas. Those that have returned report only that the town has grow substantially and that the forest around it has been abused. Most of the animals have not returned. We have only gotten messages from the druids sent to investigate telling us that they have arrived and then nothing."
From: Porter
Subject Council
"Bodentown? Woah. I hear that's a tough place. If most of druids you sent were like that joker Lantonto, then it's no surprise that they never returned. Looking down on people there will probably get you kilt right quick."
From: Mark
Subject Council
"That is part of the problem. We would not expect any of our druids to enter the city. They would be out of thier power there. We would have expected them to stay in the woods and deal with the problem from there. You have travelled a while with a Wealward. Now imagine dealing with 5 of them, in the woods. Ask Salix about the powers that the StormFather had at his command. The woods itself would wake and do his bidding if he asked. There is some power thwarting us. Of all of you party, should they all decide to go, I fear for Salix the most."
From: Porter
Subject The Council
Mund realizes the implications of what the stormlord says and quiets immediately.