sakeriver.com

The Scene and Administration

From: Ty

Subject: RPG Stuff

Ok. Thanks for submitting a character idea.

Ten people submitted, but I would like to keep the group down to five or so. So, I have to decide who to keep. There is nothing personal here, just who would be the best fit for this particular game.

*************************************************************************************

Here is the scenario:

The Location: The small coastal city of Overlook.

Overlook began as a lighthouse and small garrison on the cliffs above the bay of Nesalin, a warm water port on the west side of the Isle of Huss. The land to the east of Overlook is fertile and suitable for farming, so many of the garrison soldiers brought families and built farms and homesteads that they could work when their tour was over. In time, a small city rose up near the lighthouse, and around the garrison.

Overlook is no metropolis, but it is a bustling and prosperous city of about a thousand permanent inhabitants, with scores of small farms spread out over the gentle slopes to the east. It boasts the usual amenities available in a city built by farmers: several tanners and blacksmiths, several more churches and temples, and quite a number of pubs and taverns. But its proximity (a mere fifty miles away by the overland route) to the huge merchant city of Nesalin means that it also has access to luxuries and exotic items uncommon to cities of its size.

It is also a peaceful place. It has a wooden palisade around the city proper, but it has never been breached. In addition to the lighthouse garrison of 50 soldiers, the garrison at Nesalin is a single days hard march away, and it boasts an army of nearly a thousand men. More than adequate reason for most with evil intent to avoid unpleasantness.

The Isle of Huss is a either a very large island or a mini continent, depending on who you ask. It is roughly circular in shape, and about 300 miles across (about the same size as Oregon). The population is mostly human, but there are settlements of wild Halflings in the wilderness and mountainous regions at the center of the island. The city is Nesalin is the largest on the island, and within that city can be found members of every race in the land.

The Beginning:

Into this quiet setting has come something dark. Reports come to Overlook of an entire family of farmers vanished. Their farm, one of those furthest from the city, left abandoned. Soldiers from the garrison go to investigate, but find only a few traces of blood. The farm itself is untouched, and no valuables are taken from the home.

Several nights later, another family vanishes. This time, the oldest son escapes, badly wounded. He tells a story of black monsters that attacked in the night, so fast that the family did not even have time to arm themselves. He saw his sister struck down by one of the beasts, then picked up and carried off into the darkness. He escaped by jumping onto the back of their plow horse, but both he and the horse were wounded while riding away. The horse died just outside the city gates.

When the horse's wounds are examined, they are deep claw marks, obviously made by a physically powerful creature. The boys wounds are similar, but are festering with a deep infection. Either the pain, or the infection itself begin driving him mad. Four nights after he comes to the city, he rushes out of town screaming at the top of his lungs and hurls himself off the cliffs and into the sea.

The garrison has men begin patrolling the roads between the farms and the city. The farmers begin posting guards, and some of them leave their farms altogether and move into town until the beasts can be caught. A black mood settles over the town and the surrounding area. No one knows who will be next.

A stranger arrives:

Into this setting comes the strangest person any of the denizens of Overlook have ever met.

He is a wild Halfling apparently from one of the settlements at the center of the island. Even though he stands only three and a half feet tall, he is an imposing figure. His small frame fairly ripples with bulging muscle, and his face carries a ferocious cast. He strides into town like a conqueror, and demands to see the leader. While the guards go to fetch the city Alderman, the citizens gape at him in open astonishment. To further augment his wild physical appearance, his clothing is the skin of a huge cat, and his weapon is a battle axe of astonishing size for so small a person.

When the Alderman arrives, the Halfling speaks in a voice loud enough for all to hear. "I know what beast has come to your town. If you're ready to listen, I've a tale to tell you."

The Alderman quickly invites the little man to join him at the town hall. As has always been the case, town hall meetings are open to the public, and those who are curious about the Halfling's tale follow.

*************************************************************************************

Ok.

That is how it begins. Here is what you need to decide:

Would your character have a reason to be here on the island?

Would your character have a reason to want to help the city find and stop the cause of the murders?

Can you commit to turning in at least one game turn every single day?

If you answer no to any of these questions, then this probably isn't the game for you.

Let me know as soon as possible.

Thanks!



From: Ty

Subject: RE: RPG Stuff

Oh, as a final note, I have decided to start the party at level 5, if that alters the answers to any of your questions.



From: Ty

Subject: RE: RPG Stuff

Ok, it looks like you five are my boys. J

Karl, I will help you work up your wizard if you like. We just need to nail down your specialty (or lack thereof) and we can get him set up.

Scott, go ahead and work up your monk. If you need help, let me know.

Twinky, do your necromancer thing.

Mike, go ahead and work up your fighter.

Matt, you will need to redo your barbarian on a couple things, but it looks like you can take care of that pretty easy.

The rules:

We are doing a point buy for stats. It's easy and quick and lets people pick the stuff they want.

You get 30 points to spend. Stats start at base 10. You can increase for 1 point each 11-14, 15-16 cost 2 points, and 17-18 cost 4 points. Do this prior to racial modifiers, and add or subtract those modifiers after your point buy. You can also trade in points 1 for 1. So, if you want to be very unwise, you could trade in 2 points of wisdom, leaving you with 8, and get 2 more points to spend on something else.

For example, an 18 stat (the highest possible) will cost you 16 points. You decide if you want a couple high stats, or lots of mid level ones. Remember, although it is tempting to trade in all your charisma for more points to spend, I will penalize the shit out of you for being intolerable to be around. J

If you need a character sheet, Tom is sending me some blank ones that I can send you.

To start, figure out what you want your stats to be, and select your skills. I will then add in your equipment and starting money.

The first game email will be a description of the town meeting, and why each of you in particular is there. We will go from there.

Does that sound good to everyone?



From: Ty

Subject: RE: RPG Stuff

Ummm?

I am adding Dan to the mix, for reasons that will become apparent later. Dan is playing a cleric. Dan, go ahead and work up stats and skills for a 5th level cleric using the point buy system I show below.

This puts us at six characters, but I don't think that will be too bulky.

Thanks.



From: ScottR

Subject: RE: RPG Stuff

2 wizards, a monk, a straight fighter, and a halfling ranger/barbarian combo. . .

Someone please pick up some healing skill somewhere, or we're all screwed.

If anyone is interested, I picked up a quick character generation application off of Download.com-- it's what I used to generate a test character back when I thought I could still get in on Tom's game. . . :)

I'd be happy to lend it out. It's small, the mechanics are fairly simple, hardly any manual required at all, and it's 3E compatible. Email me by tomorrow morning and I'll shoot it out to you first thing.

And who are all you people? Ty and Karl I'm sure I know; John Saxon= saxon75? Who are Raja and Matthew Rourke (on hatrack-- this is not an existentialism here, donchaknow! :p )



From: Ty

Subject: RE: RPG Stuff

Do you all have Aim accounts? If so, my AIM nick is Slash Berzerker. I am usually on during the day and available for questions and the like.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: RPG Stuff

My AIM is mooboy04, though I don't use AIM that much. The best way to reach me is email at this address. My ICQ number is 33460168 and my MSN messenger username is marvin_86@hotmail.com. I have a Yahoo messenger account, too, but I can never remember what the username is.

Raja

Introductions and Admin

From: Ty

Subject: Spells, Equipment, and Bonus points

Ok, guys.

The character stats and skills look great. I am getting character sheets from Tom, so I will go ahead and fill them out using the info you sent me. For the wizards, I will also round out your spell books, and for everyone I will fill in some equipment appropriate for your level.

Based on the character intros you have sent me, I will write up the opening act as soon as you have your characters sheets from me. I am going to take control of your guys a bit just during the meeting, mostly for artistic uses in writing up the intro :)

Hopefully, we will be able to get started next week.

I need just a couple more things.

If your character uses a specific armor or weapon type (chainmail, longsword, etc.), let me know so I can give him equipment that matches your wishes.

Since each of you got a bonus +1 to a stat at level 4, tell me where you want me to apply that bonus.

That should be it. Everything else is just waiting on the sheets.



From: Matt

Subject: RE: RPG Stuff

Wow, I take a night off email, and you guys crash my hotmail account. I haven't gotten a chance to read all the 19 emails in my box yet, but I will this afternoon... but, until then, could you please change the email address for me from giantsdrink@hotmail.com to RynDrythorn@aol.com . Thanks.

Matt Rourke, aka FlyingCow



From: Ty

Subject: Feats

Here are the numbers of feats you will receive at your level.

Monk: 3 feats of any kind.
Diviner: 3 feats of any kind, and 1 wizard feat
Necromancer: 3 feats of any kind, and 1 wizard feat
Cleric: 3 feats of any kind.
Fighter: 3 feats of any kind, and 5 fighter feats.

Note that most feats have prerequisites that must be met before they can be taken -- so don't let buy feats that you could not have purchased at that point in your past development, even if you NOW qualify for the feat.



From: Ty

Subject: Blank character sheet

Here is a blank character sheet. Fill in what you can, ask for help with those things you aren't sure about. I will fill in twinky's spell book, and everyone's equipment.

Dan and Mike, I still need your weapon and armor choices.



From: Ty

Subject: special equipment

Ok, here is my plan. Rather than hand out arbitrary equipment you may or may not want, I have decided to do this:

You may have +2 worth of equipment. This may include a single +2 item, or two +1 items or their equivalents. If you need help in deciding, or in finding out what a +1 equivalent item is, let me know.

If you want to stick all your eggs in one basket, and go for a single +2 item, I will probably grant the +2 item an additional power of some kind.



From: Ty

Subject: RE: Cast of Characters

I happen to know that mike is Garyth tel'Ardan a human fighter.

Matt is Rennik, a wild Halfling barbarian/ranger



From: Matt

Subject: Re: Cast of Characters

Matt is Flying Cow on Hatrack, and will be Rennik, a feral halfling barbarian/ranger who is likely to bite you at some point. And he's right at finger level, so watch out.

Scott is Scott R on Hatrack, and will be Mission, a human monk.

Dan is Bob the Lawyer on Hatrack and will be playing Cadfael of Pelor, a human first aid tent. Erm. Cleric.

Karl is KarlEd on Hatrack and will be playing Farron Uphill, a human wizard.

Raja is Twinky on Hatrack and will be playing Sa'id ibn Shukri, a Human necromancer. (Pronounced "Sa-ee-d")

Getting Started, Tavern, Rennik Description

From: Ty

Subject: RE: getting started!

The city hall of Overlook is a warm and inviting structure. It was clearly built to encourage the citizenry to take an active interest in local government. One end of the hall is the long table at which the invited sit, but the rest of the hall is a large visitor's gallery with comfortable benches and easy access to the lavatory.

The Alderman leads the ferocious looking Halfling into this hall, and asks him to sit at the table. Within moments, the other seats and the table are taken by local functionaries, and not long after the visitor's gallery is filled to bursting with curious townsfolk.

The Alderman begins banging his gavel, and once the excited buzz dies down, turns with stiff formality to the Halfling. "Good sir, we are indeed greatly concerned over the recent attacks on our people. If you have information that would aid us, I ask that you please give it now so that we may decide on our course."

The Halfling looks at those seated around the table. He notes their soft clothes, and softer hands. Their waists going gently to rotund, and he knows that his real audience is in the gallery. He leaps onto the table, and turning to the crowded townspeople he thumps the handle of his axe on the table once then says, "I know what stalks your farms. I know what kills your people. I have seen the beasts, and I have dedicated my life to killing them.

"Three years ago, I was to be married to Lorria, daughter of my village shaman, the most beautiful mate a Halfling could ever ask for. We were young. We were in love. The entire village gathered to watch her father join our hands before Yondalla in the center of our village.

"That is when I first saw the beast. It came out of the wilderness, a black blur charging at the gathering. We were unprepared, having no weapons, and ran to arm ourselves. Lorria hurried the women and children to shelter. I ran for my bow and arrows along with several of the warriors of the village.

"When I returned to the clearing, there was chaos. Children were screaming. Spears flew through the air. The beast was at bay, surrounded by warriors with pikes and spears, with the body of my Lorria hanging limp in its jaws. It was a massive black boar, slavering at the mouth with red eyes. And it was cornered.

"The battle was fierce. Spears were thrown, arrows loosed, but our weapons had little effect. The beast snapped its jaws and broke Lorria's body in two before rounding on us. Through tears of anger and sadness, I flew into a rage and fired several arrows into its flank, but there was no effect. It tore through our ranks, cutting down our best fighters with its claws and tusks before disappearing into the wilderness.

"My friend, Horan, the chief's son, survived. The other wounded could not be saved.

"I know this one thing - the boy who took his life spared himself and you untold agony. Horan wasted away with fever for weeks as our healers tended his wounds, but his eyes grew red and voice weak. We thought he would surely die, and I now wish that he had.

"When the moon was next full, Horan, my friend, son of our village chief, transformed into a black devil-boar, destroyed the hut he was recovering in, and carried the limp body of one of the healers into the wilderness in his jaws.

"The beast that attacked my village was a devil-boar - a lycanthrope. One who can change from man to beast, and back again. One cursed to consume flesh, cursed to hate life and all that is good.

"I searched for a way to cure my friend but learned that we missed our opportunity through ignorance. Since that time I have spent my life learning about these creatures and how to kill them, all the while tracking Horan through the wilds.

"He has joined the larger devil-boar, and they have traveled both as beast and man, crossing the wilderness and feeding on families and wanderers. For three years I followed, and they have led me here.

"And now, I hear stories of death. Of black beasts that steal away families. Of a survivor who went mad and took his life. Horan has come to your town. He and his companion see it as a grand feast table laid out before them.

"I am not foolish enough to think I can stop them alone. It is my hope that some of your number are willing to join me in my fight, and I humbly ask of you, Alderman, and any brave warriors among your people, for aid in ridding your city of this evil."

After he speaks, he turns back to face the Alderman, who is visibly shaken. "Well, certainly we must act quickly against such a threat." He mops his brow with a kerchief, "Indeed. We must act quickly."

He looks around the room for a moment, with obvious fear at being the one to make the decision on what to do. Eventually, his eyes land on Captain Bragga, the head of the Nesalin garrison here in Overlook. Relief is visible in his eyes when he says, "Captain. You seem the logical choice to make a plan of action against this terrible threat. I turn the meeting over to you."

The Captain nods once as if expecting this, and scratches his grizzled and mostly gray beard. "Aye. But I have not the men nor the weapons to hunt such a beast, much less two or more o' them. Perhaps it would be best if I sent word to the commander at Nesalin and asked for help." When he says this, many around the room nod in agreement. Whispers of "yes, ask Nesalin for help" are heard everywhere.

But as the Alderman is raising his gavel to declare that the official plan of action, a young man in a Lieutenants uniform pushes his way to the front of the room. "Please, people, wait! We can't afford to stand idly by while Nesalin decides whether or not to aid us! Even if they do, at best no troops would arrive for three or four days. Who knows how many would be carried off in the meantime."

The young officer turns to Captain Bragga. "Sir, please let me take a small group to aid the Halfling in tracking these beasts. It may be that if we could catch them in their lair, we could end this threat before more people are lost."

The Captain nods once, "Garyth, if you choose to do this, I will not stop you, but I will force no man to accompany you."

Garyth accepts eagerly, "I would force no one either, who knows what dangers we would face tracking such creatures." He turns to look at the collected townspeople. "Who would go with me to face these beasts before more of our people are killed?"

Immediately a pale young man in dark robes steps forward. "Many of you know me. I am Farron Uphill. I was raised on one of the farms nearby, and my aunt and uncle live there still. I will risk no hurt to them, so I will go and help you stop these things."

Captain Bragga says to the Alderman, "This is the one that graduated from the wizards school in Nesalin. Magic would be useful."

"Then more magic would be twice as useful," declares a dark young man with an odd nasal accent and dressed in strange foreign clothing. He bows deeply and says, "I am Sa'id ibn Shukri, formerly of Jaffa, and late of Nesalin and the Wizards school there. I see many inconsistencies in the stories here. For example, the claw marks on the unfortunate boy who died (Gods grant him rest). A wereboar of the type the Halfling describes would leave no claw marks. Hoof or tusk marks, for a certainty, but not claws. And what purpose would such creatures have in carrying off the dead? To devour on the spot, I could understand, but not to carry off." At this point he seems to realize that everyone is staring at him with a blank expression. "Forgive my prattling. I find this puzzle most curious. I will help you find it's answer."

Another young man steps forward. "My name is Mission. I am a follower of the Path of Blood and Stone. I seek someone on this island, but my order would not allow me to turn aside from such obvious need. I will aid you until this threat is removed." He then bows slightly from the waist and steps back.

The room is silent for a moment. When no more step forward, Garyth turns back to the Captain and the Alderman. "I will take these three with me. With the Halfling that gives us five. I feel this number is adequate."

"Then go with our good wishes, Lieutenant." Says the Alderman, "We will support you in any way we can. Captain, see to it that these men are given any equipment they need from the town stores. We can provide you with food, travel gear, and what weapons we have. I will see to it that the herbalist gives you what aid he can. When do you leave?"

Garyth replies, "We leave at first light. We will finish our preparations tonight."

After a few more moments, the meeting begins to break up. The five gather together around the table at the head of the room, and discuss what supplies they will need for the morning. Just as they are about to disband for their respective accommodations, a large dark haired man equipped with a breastplate carved with religious icons approaches and says, "I too will go. I am Cadfael, a servant of Pelor, and wield some small power by his graces." He wears heavy fighting gloves, but you notice that as he speaks, his is constantly rubbing his hand.

Garyth says, "You are welcome, noble cleric. We will appreciate any assistance the Gods can offer."

Cadfael nods and turns to leave.

Ok, guys, here is the deal.

You are taking over from here. Please feel free to add equipment to your character sheets. This equipment can include any food, travel and survival gear, ammunition, or mundane weapons you need. Email me your updated character sheets when you are done.

The next turn will begin with the group gathering at first light. Any actions you wish to take before then will need to be emailed to me before that turn. Also, spellcasters, remember to email me an updated spell list.

We are ready to go!



From: Daniel

Subject: RE: getting started!

After taking a step Cadfael pauses as if in thought. After a moment he turns quickly he looks Rennik in the eye, "Good sir Halfling, I have, in my time, come across many ailments and maladies. And yet I have never had the... opportunity to tend to those afflicted with the curse of lycanthropy. Tell me, good sir, what do you know of it? You have said that you lost your friends due to your own ignorance of their condition. What, may I ask, could you have done? And what can we do to protect ourselves from falling victim to their madness? I shall, of course, pray to Pelor for guidance in the morrow, but I would have you tell me what you can now."



From: Ty

Subject: RE: getting started

I would like to thank Daniel for making the first true role playing move here.

I encourage everyone to do this sort of thing. If you do it often or well enough, you get free bonus goodies from the DM! Yay!



From: Matt

Subject: Re: getting started!

Rennik glances down at his feet and grits his teeth.

"We were too late. We were ignorant. We did not know of devil-boars, or the evils of their blood. We thought Horan was in shock, that he had an infection. We treated him with poultices and small magic. Useless."

The halfling takes a few steps towards a nearby tavern, but pauses and turns and stares into a sort of middle distance.

"We were twenty feet from saving him, you know that? Twenty feet!" There is almost a growl beneath his words, but he calms himeself. "There is an herb, a poison. Devil's Herb, Dwayberry, Belladonna, Dwale, Nightshade... it causes sleep without waking. It grows near my village, and we know to avoid it.

"But, if you are bitten, your only chance is to eat a sprig of it as soon as possible. After an hour, there is no hope, and even within minutes there is only a small chance it will be a cure. It is said that within three days, a powerful enough cleric can also heal the afflicted. Had we known, we could have sent for one... but we did not know.

"Rumor has it that on the three days of a full moon the curse can be lifted, but I don't know how, nor has any cleric or sorcerer I've spoken to. Rumors also tell of good lycanthropes - but I don't believe them. The devil-beasts are evil, and since I have no proof of their redemption, I have dedicated my life to ending my friend's curse."

He finally looks up into Cadfael's eyes, and looks across the faces of the others who offered to help. "I wish to thank you before we set out, for the road is dangerous. You have brave and good hearts. I just hope they continue beating."

Finally, he sets off toward the tavern.

"Come, let us all share drinks and good times before the hunt."



From: Raja

Subject: Re: getting started!

Sa'id's expression is thoughtful, and he does not follow Rennik out of the hall immediately. You can almost see the gears turning behind his eyes, grinding away at each new piece of information that has been gleaned tonight. He begins to murmur, half to himself and half to anyone who happens to be listening:

"Belladonna... Hm. But are all varieties of lycanthropy cured by this herb, or only the wereboar's bite? Lycanthropy is as good an assumption as any right now... But what other kinds of lycanthropes are there? If only I could examine the bodies... There is much to be learned about how these people died."

He smiles wryly to himself.

"Not to mention the horse. I only hope they have not already been buried."

Shaking his head, Sa'id rises and begins to make his way toward the exit.



From: Ty

Subject: RE: getting started!

I received a message from Dan about acquiring belladonna before you leave. I will allow anyone who wants to to search for it in the immediate area. You can use either a wilderness check, or a knowledge (nature) check to do so.

Let me know if you want to search, and what your rank is in the appropriate skill. I'll let you know if you find any.



From: Raja

Subject: Tavern

Before joining the group on the main floor of the tavern, Sa'id goes up to his room and retrieves paper and writing materials. Winding his way back to the group's table amid the bustle of the tavern, he sits, orders a glass of wine, and begins writing in a curt hand. By the time he has emptied his glass, the page is covered in neat, readable prose, written in the language of Huss. He pushes the paper out into the middle of the table and begins to speak:

"Before we leave Overlook, I want to see if we can examine the dead horse. The body of the horse is the only body available to us. While I am not experienced in equine autopsy, I think that Rennik and I may be able to learn something from it." Sa'id's accent becomes more pronounced as he accelerates his speech, "In order to solidify my own thoughts I have made some notes. I wrote in the common tongue of Huss if you wish to read them." He pauses for a moment, musing. "Also, I think that Brother Cadfael's suggestion of acquiring belladonna is a wise and prudent one, but I know little of such things. What knowledge I do have comes through alchemy."

Sa'id's notes read as follows:

________________________________________________________________________________

1) The first series of attacks:

- First family vanishes. Their farm is one of the furthest from Overlook and we don't know how long they had been gone before the disappearance was discovered.

- The farm is untouched, with no valuables taken. Untouched means no signs of struggle, either. Only a few traces of blood. Implication: taken in their sleep. If they were killed it was probably not done at the farm.

- Second family vanishes several nights later. Oldest son escapes on horseback; horse dies outside city gates and son is wounded (deep claw marks, powerful creature). "Black monsters that attacked in the night," and swiftly. His sister was taken.

- Boy's wounds fester; four nights later, he commits suicide by throwing himself off the cliffs. Driven mad either by infection or pain.

2) Rennik's info:

- His hometown was attacked by a massive black wereboar. He says that it fought with "claws and tusks" (as opposed to "hooves and tusks"). Do wereboars have hooved forelegs?

- Injured Horan also became feverish. Next full moon, Horan turned into a boar and fled, killing a healer on his way and taking the body. Assumption: he was afflicted with lycanthropy by the wereboar.

- Lycanthropy of boar-type can potentially be cured by nightshade administered very soon after being injured by a wereboar.

- Rennik has tracked Horan and the other wereboar for three years and the trail has led them to Overlook.

3) Questions and Conjecture:

- Do wereboars have claws, or not? Could "claw marks" on bodies have been made by tusks? (Check corpses if possible; tusks would leave gashes in pairs while claws would leave nail-like trails.)

- Have the areas surrounding the attacks been checked for prints/trails? Rennik should examine them to see if they match up with Horan's trail.

- Two vanished families, but we don't know how far apart the attacks were (since we don't know exactly when the first attack occurred).

- If it is not Horan, it may still be another kind of lycanthrope. Is lycanthropy consistent with the injured boy's fever symptoms? If so lycanthropy is as good an assumption as any.



From: Ty

Subject: RE: Tavern

That is great stuff!

I really like this group so far.

Game Stuff:

The horse was burned.



From: Karl

Subject: RE: getting started!

Farron listens carefully to this exchange and decides that belladonna would be a good thing to have on hand. He knows of a rather neglected meadow near a small grove of trees on the edge of the town where such an herb might be found and decides to stop there before joining the group at the tavern.



From: Ty

Subject: time and temperature

Karl reminded me that I have not sent some vital information... soooo...

It is the beginning of summer on the isle of Huss. The trees are covered in fruit that is almost ripe. It is very close to harvest time for many of the farmers, which makes the current troubles even more inconvenient.

When you exited the town meeting, it was early evening

The temperature on the island during this time of year with be between 60 and 80 degrees, cooler on the coast and in the forests.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: getting started!

After listening to Sa'id's words, Rennik nods for a while and then speaks.

"It is good to find the Devil's Herb, but it is perishable and needs to be eaten within a week of its harvest to be effective. It is unfortunate that the body of the horse was burned. There may have been clues or evidence.

"You are experienced with words and thoughts, spellweaver, though I fear for your safety in battle. I will do what I can to keep you from harm."

Rennik looks at the lettering on the paper and furrows his brow.

"I'm afraid I cannot read this language. If you could read it to me or write in Common or Elven, perhaps?"

The halfling listens to Sa'id's words as he reads his itemized list, nodding at points and interrupting at others.

"I must have misspoke when I said claws. Hooves, yes. The beast most often uses its tusks to tear at legs to drop its opponent, then gores the body and throws it into the air. It can bite, and I have heard tales that they eat human flesh - which I assume is why the bodies are being taken - and it can deal great blows with its powerful limbs. A hooved kick to the head can crush a skull, and a flat hoof to the chest can break ribs and damage the heart.

"Also, the herb is not a cure-all. It is said that it can cure lycanthropy if taken immediately after being bitten - but it is often difficult to know that you have been bitten by a devil beast. There is sometimes infection and fever, but not always - and the devil-beast form doesn't emerge until the next full moon. The herb is said to work for all forms of lycanthropy, but even then it only saves the truly strong of will and strong of heart. Many survive the curse, but then die from the poison.

The halfling thanks Sa'id for taking the time to explain his words, finishes a dwarvish ale and orders another. The lamb supper he bought arrives at the table carried by a barmaid, and he digs in with both hands, ignoring the knife and two-pronged fork on the table beside his plate. Between bites, he continues to speak.

"You have thought this out well, spellweaver. We will go to the farm where the boy and horse were hurt. There we should find clues about exactly what happened, and there will be enough of a trail for me to track our quarry."



From: Karl

Subject: RE: Tavern

Farron enters the tavern a bit more than an hour after the meeting and greets the group. He walks to the bar and asks Pete, the old barkeep, to send over some food and a round of pints for the group, dropping a few coins into his hand quietly.

Returning to the table, he announces, "We're in luck. I took a little walk near the edge of town and was able to locate a few sprigs of belladonna. It's not very pleasant smelling, so I'll just leave it in the pack for now. The smell dissipates as it dries, but hopefully we won't need to find out how it tastes."

When Pete brings the food, (a cutting board with a generous slab of meat, some cheese and plenty of bread along with several tankards of ale,) Farron motions for the group to help themselves as he reaches for a small loaf of the bread and some meat and cheese. As he joins in on conversation with the group, he periodically drops a small hunk of bread or meat or cheese into a pocket of his robes.

When Said starts writing his message, he takes the cue and pulls out a scrap of paper and a sharpened piece of charcoal from his own pocket and jots a quick note. This done, he looks down into a pocket on his robes and appears to speak, but what the group hears sounds more like a series of whispery, chattering noises. At this, a small weasel scurries onto the table, takes the note and disappears out an open window. "Just wanted to let my folks know what's going on. They're quite old and I wouldn't want them to worry."

"So, I image we should start at the site of the most recent attack. Shall we meet in front of the tavern at dawn?"



From: Karl

Subject: RE: getting started!

"This time of year it shouldn't be too hard to find as we need it." Farron replies. "I'm curious, though, if the root is as effective as the plant for treating lycanthropy. Does your lore tell? If not, and the preserved herb is no good then pity the poor fellow bitten in winter."



From: Daniel

Subject: RE: Tavern

Cadfael looks sadly at the door that has closed behind Rennik. "Vengeance will not bring him back, brother, vengeance will not bring him back." His face hardens slightly and he strides toward the exit muttering under his breath, "But then, the Gods help those who help themselves, don't they?"

Pausing at the door he looks back at you, "May Pelor light your path, brothers, I shall see you in the tavern at nightfall before retiring for the evening." And with that he throws open the door and heads out into the failing light of the evening.

True to his word he is in the tavern waiting for you, a goblet of water in hand and bread on his plate. He smiles warmly at you and blesses you as you take your seats. When all are assembled he listens quietly to Sa'id, Rennik and Farron's exchange. Not speaking until it is clear that they have finished.

"I too bring good news, brothers! It is clear Pelor smiles on our quest and has seen fit to bless us with his aid before our journey has even begun in full! The good priests of this city were kind enough to give me 3 vials of an antitoxin. Sadly they will not cure a poison if you are already afflicted, but it does work to counter any agent that would otherwise do you harm. It lasts for roughly an hour in your blood before degrading and becoming useless, so I suggest it be taken before entering combat."

He passes a vial each to Rennik, Garyth and Mission. "I fear you three will be putting your bodies at risk more than the rest of us. For your sacrifice I will offer what little aid I can. On top of these (he pulls a box from his pack) I have more gifts to impart on you. Once again, you that willingly face the greatest danger shall receive the greatest blessings." He slides two pewter flasks to Mission, Rennik and Garyth, "And here, one a piece for our mages, should they find themselves in need of aid and I am unable to reach them in time. In these flasks is water sanctified with the blood of Pelor that those that drink it may be strong (Potions of Moderate

Healing [cures 2d8+10 damage]) and continue to fight in his name."

"Worry not for me, I leave nothing for myself as I have my faith to protect me. Pelor's hand shields me from harm, his eyes guide my eyes and his heart beats in my heart."

With that he leans back contentedly. Seeing that everyone has served themselves he helps himself to the remains of the meat and cheese that Ferrol provided. Quietly, he listens to the rest of the evening's exchange, although he offers no advice of his own. However, when it is suggested that the party meet at first light he speaks again.

"I am afraid I cannot make that meeting. The sunrise is a holy time, and I intend to use it as it was meant to be used, as it is best used. But I understand your desire to begin your work, and do not fault you for neglecting this holy time. Your hearts are guided by good, and Pelor will smile on you all the same. I am certain that I can get instructions on how to get to the farm and surely you'll not run across anything foul while you are there. I shall meet you an hour after the sun begins to rise."



From: Ty

Subject: a brief synopsis

Karl asked for this too. J

The players:

Matt (flyingcow) : Matt is playing Rennik, a wild Halfling barbarian/ranger who hunts the werecreatures who killed his fiance.

Karl (KarlEd): Karl is playing Farron, a Human Diviner who has an aunt and uncle in overlook.

Dan (bobthelawyer): Dan is playing Cadfael, a Human Cleric of Pelor, who's reasons for joining this quest are unclear.

Scott (ScottR): Scott is playing Mission, a Human Monk of the Path of Blood and Stone. He seeks a woman from his past on the island, and joins the quest out of a duty to help others.

Mike (saxon): Mike is playing Garyth, a Human Fighter and Lieutenant of the Overlook town guard. He leads the quest to protect his town.

Raja (Twinky): Raja is playing Sa'id, a Human Necromancer who happens to be traveling through town, and joins the quest out of an insatiable and somewhat morbid curiousity.



From: Ty

Subject: The role playing goodness

Ok, I have to admit that I have been blown away by how good this is starting. Everyone is playing their character to a T, and things are heading toward an excellent game over all (if I don't suck!).

In that spirit, I am awarding every member of the party 1 fate point to take on their travels with them. Pelor does indeed look on you with fondness, and will grant you aid at your time of greatest need.

Keep it up guys.



From: Ty

Subject: RE: The role playing goodness

Raja asked me what a fate point is.

It is a marker you can trade in with the DM to buy a singular and ass saving event. Common uses are: getting a max roll on the next skill check, dodging an instantly lethal blow, getting a bonus to an important saving throw, etc...

Save them, as they are hard to come by, but don't hesitate to use it if your ass is on the line.



From: Karl

Subject: a brief synopsis

Thanks Ty,

And thanks to everyone else. Looks like it's gonna be a good group to work with. I just hope I can keep up.



From: Karl

Subject: RE: Tavern

"Thank you, brother", Farron replies as he stows the potion in an inner pocket of his robes.



From: Raja

Subject: RE: Tavern

Sa'id turns to Rennik with a smile, and begins speaking to him in his own tongue. "I know both the common tongue of Huss and your own tongue in addition to the tongue of my native Ammar, friend Rennik," he says, "and I give you thanks for your kind words." Then, switching back to common, he contiues: "It seems, as my colleauge of esteem Farron has said, that we must learn more of the specific properties of this cure. Although Brother Cadfael - is that the honourific you use? - has been generous with his preventatives, I think it is still in our interests to study the belladona. Perhaps with the proper alchemy a cure for even progressed lycanthropy could be found. However, more pressing is the investigation of the deserted farms. It is good that we carry the belladonna with us so that we do not forget it, but I agree that we must make our way to the closer of the two farms as quickly as possible. From Rennik's informations, I think our most reasonable course is for the time being to assume that Horan and his wereboar kin are behind these attacks. We must scour the two farms for any evidence of that kind." As before, Sa'id's accent grows more pronounced the faster he speaks.

Sa'id pauses, then gasps. "I... I must apologize. I have wholly neglected to properly introduce myself. As I said at the hall of meeting, I am Sa'id ibn Shukri and my home is in Jaffa, on the isle of Ammar far to the east of here. I have lived on Huss, attending the wizards's school in Nesalin, for three years past. It was there I met my colleague of esteem, Farron. And here I have been blurting my ideas and rambling on while giving you no reason to listen to or trust me... again, I must apologize. I thank all of you for listening to my musings."

Sa'id orders a third glass of wine, and sits back to sip it while munching on some of the bread and cheese.

(Raja is going to bed now. ;)



From: Dan

Subject: RE: Tavern

No thanks are needed, brother Farron. I would have no harm come to you or your family.

Yes, Sa'id, please call me Brother Cadfael. We have no friends, but are all family under the loving gaze of the Father. I would be known to you as nothing else.

But as for the curative properties of Belladonna, I assure you that there is little you could do to study it further. Better healers and greater men than you or I have studied it, to be sure. If they could devise no greater a cure than no greater a cure can exist. But if you do wish to learn more than we currently know I suggest you journey back to Nesalin. Go to the Church of Pelor there and ask for Father Belstaff. He is a great man, blessed under the light of the Lord and more skilled in the arts of healing than you or I could dare to dream. And what's more, he's always willing to share his knowledge with those that are eagre to use it in Pelor's name. If you do go, I ask you to send him my regards. I fear it could be a long time before I see him again.

And now friends, I must leave you. It has been a long walk and a long day. I wish to get some sleep while I can so that I may be clear sighted at daybreak. Good evening, and God bless.

And with that, Cadfael heads slowly up the stairs to his room.

(Dan goes to bed)



From: Mike

Subject: RE: Tavern

Garyth frowns as Rennik and Sa'id continue enjoying their beverages. But, no, this is not the time; voicing his concerns would only serve to divide the group before they even set out. He hides his disapproval by taking another bite of the meat, washing it down with the cool water in his tankard. The concern for the others' readiness is soon replaced with a tingle of excitement and not a little fear. But Overlook depends on what he and these men will do, there is no time for anxiety.

As Cadfael passes over the vial, he smiles and nods. "Thank you, good sir. And as you lend me your skills, my steel will protect you, as I hope it may protect Overlook." He slips the vial into his pack.

After Cadfael leaves, Garyth, too, stands. "Gentlemen, I believe we are agreed. I suggest we catch what sleep we may; we will have an early start tomorrow." With that, he turns and climbs the stairs.



From: Matt

Subject: Group photo!

So what do y'all look like, anyway? Your characters, I mean. I've been pondering doing some sketches of the party, possibly one or two chars in a shot, possibly a group shot or two, maybe some action shots once we get into a sticky situation or two.

The thing is, while I may have creative interpretations of what your characters look like (Sa'id, I did a rough sketch, and you came out ridiculously skinny, bald-headed with a goatee, in a long robe with a long, dark crooked staff.... this is probably way off base, but that's the image I have right now), I don't have any definite images other than fleeting glances. For example, I know Cadfael has a shield with a symbol of Pelor on it, and I know that Farron has a ferret type creature with him. But what else?

Here's my word-painted picture of Rennik:

Rennik comes off as rather imposing for having such a small frame. He is tall for a halfling (about 3' 6") and very brawny and muscled, especially in the upper body and shoulders. He has long, black tangled hair that falls down past his shoulders, and he is possibly the only halfling any of you have seen that has what looks to be the start of facial hair (just around his chin and longish sideburns). He has copper/orange colored eyes and a darker shade to his skin.

His eyes are wild and someone intimidating, and it seems as though he often has to contain himself in an effort to act civilized. He is trained to speak well, and his Common has a touch of Elven accent to it, but his words often seems forced. The air of civility is obviously a mask, though one he has trained himself to wear. At times, it seems as though the mask will crack and he will let loose upon those around him.

He wears studded leather armor grudgingly, sacrificing the comfort of loose fitting clothing for its protection. Over his armor he wears the skin of a large, spotted cat that was obviously larger than he was in life. The skin of the head is fashioned into a hood that he sometimes wears for stealth and/or intimidation purposes. He carries a very large dwarven war axe with him at all times that is almost as large as he is. When the blade end is resting at his feet, the axe haft comes to just below his chin... and when anxious or attempting to control his anger, he has a habit of chewing on the leather straps wrapped around its end.

His voice is raspy and carries a bit of a throaty growl when he's angered, though he can project it quite well when he needs to. Among friends his voice is generally calm and restrained, even somewhat placid in demeanor, but any challenge to his abilities, his village, his family or his friends will be met with great intensity and an urge to beat something bloody first and ask questions later, if at all.

He is not gentle. He is not often subtle. If he doesn't like you, you'll know... if by nothing less than the cuts and bruises. If he does like you, he'll be a staunch defender and zealously leap to your aid... especially if it means beating some hapless defender into a senseless pulp.

That's Rennik.

Who are you?

Group Photo (cont'd) and First Encounter at Farm

From: Karl

Subject: RE: Tavern

Farron nods, "Yes, Sa'id and I have met before at the wizard's college. He is a good man and accomplished student of his arts . . . if he *is* a little strange." He says this last with a wink and a light jab at Sa'id's ribs."

"Well gentlemen, I for one do not wish to face a wereboar on less than a full night's sleep. I'll see you all in the morning."



From: Daniel

Subject: Re: Group Photo!

At just under 6'0" Cadfaels stands tall, straight and proper. While he is a large man, it is still difficult to get a real sense of his size from under the armour that he wears; a man in a breast plate always appears larger than he is. It is polished, well-kept, and looks as though it has never seen use in combat. He also carries a large shield made of steel and engraved with the blazing sun of Pelor. It too is well cared for, there is no sign of a dent or smudge on it and the sun has been polished to such a degree that almost glows. Indeed it reflects so much light that it is hard to look directly at it. To complete the picture his gloved hand rests perpetually on the mace at his side. It's not that he seems to suspect danger or that he is familiar with using the weapon, but rather he seems uncertain of what to do with his hand. It does not, however, always rest there. When he is lost in thought he absentmindedly scratches the hand that grips his shield.

His eyes are a brilliant blue, clear and marked with the wisdom of his order. Although, they are not as comforting as one might expect from a healer. There are large black bags under his eyes and in dim lighting they almost seem slightly sunken. It seems he has been sleeping fitfully for some time now, if indeed he has been sleeping at all. He tends to stare off fixedly in one direction, a cold expression on his face, but when spoken to his eyes meet the speaker and soften; a slight smile forming on his lips.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: Group photo!

Great descriptions so far! I have a much better sense now of what each other character looks like. :)

Sa'id's stance is relaxed. When his mind isn't going a mile a minute he is could even be described as 'laid back;' however, his curiosity and love of brain-puzzles (as he calls them) keep him from acheiving this state very often.

His skin is deeply tanned, and his hair, when you see it, is thick and black, though it does not grow in curls like the hair of many Ammarian men. Generally, though, he keeps it tucked under his full turban. His dark brown eyes tend to wander, but when he finds something of interest his gaze is intent. Unlike most wizards of Huss, Sa'id is not clad in an ankle-length full robe, but rather in the traditional working garb of an Ammarian male: turban, long, loose-fitting tunic, wide belt, loose pants. The turban's fabric is embroidered with a repeating pattern. His tunic is brown and is patterned as well, though not as fully as the turban; the pants are a lighter shade. The one concession Sa'id appears to have made to the fashion of Huss is his comfortable-looking brown leather boots. (If you want a rough basis, the clothes Morgan Freeman's character wears in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves is a good place to start. For style, anyway. :)

Sa'id stands at about 5'10" plus some change, and clocks in at about 160 lbs; he isn't wafer-thin as many others who share his vocation are.



From: Ty

Subject: RE: Group photo!

Thanks guys, this is good stuff.

We had an exchange server blowup this morning, so it put my schedule back quite a bit for round one. I will probably send out the morning turn at about noon pacific time.

See you all then.



From: Karl

Subject: RE: Group photo!

Farron most resembles, if anything, a ferret. This was no small discomfort for him as a child, especially after he went to live with his aunt and uncle in Overlook. He is still rather short and thin. His complexion is pale. His face is narrow and, well, ferret-ish. He has black hair and very dark blue eyes - in dimmer light they look almost black. Unless he can shave every day, he quickly develops a rather whispery goatee giving him even more of a ferret look. In Overlook, he was teased mercilessly by the other kids who called him "Ferret" rather than "Farron". The name fit so well that nearly all adults (other than his aunt and uncle) called him that. Nowadays the quickest way to rile him is to use that name.

Farron was born of fairly well-heeled merchant parents who were killed at sea when he was 8. He lived with his Aunt and Uncle in Overlook until he was 11 when he returned to Nesalin to attend the wizard's school. He was there until he was 20, when he went to work for a merchant shipper. He has spent the last 3 years in and out of ports, only recently returning to Overlook at the request of his aunt and uncle who wrote him about the attacks.

Farron has an inner sense of superiority, but also masks it well most of the time. He is outwardly jovial and friendly to nearly everyone. To his friends this is genuine. To his enemies this is to keep them off guard. He is more likely to take revenge secretly than to confront a bully or minor enemy openly.

Farron hopes that in the 15 years he's been away from Overlook, people will have forgotten his old nickname. If they haven't, they are likely to find out that he is less meek than he once was.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: Group photo!

The best way to describe Mission is 'simple.' Mission is 6'3, lean and muscled, with straw-yellow hair, brown eyes, and an open, honest face. He wears a simple tunic and trousers, looking like nothing more than a simple peasant.

He wears his hair loose, hanging down just below his ears. His clothing is always clean and well-mended.



From: Ty

Subject: First day: the hunt (1)

In the cool morning air of dawn, the party gathers in the town square outside city hall. As is common on the coast, a dense fog has rolled in over night. Those familiar with Overlook know that the fog will burn off in a few hours, but with the task ahead it adds a somber tinge to the gathering.

Cadfael has not arrived, but the group knows that he is required by his religion to spend the first hour of sunrise in prayer.

Garyth has a hastily drawn map of the farms surrounding the city, with two of the farms marked with a red X. It has been arranged that Cadfael will meet you at the closest of the two farms in an hour, so the group heads there first. It is a pleasant walk, and the perfect thing to stretch the limbs and get the last of the morning yawns out of your system. Within half an hour the fog is beginning to thin, and the farm's large barn comes into view.

Rennik, who is taking the lead with Garyth close behind, notices that there is a man leaning against the fence around the house. The house door is open, and there appears to be some activity inside. The man outside is dressed rough leather armor, and casually holds a crossbow in one hand. He notices you about the same time you notice him, and he lets out a sharp whistle aimed at the house.

(If you wish to take actions now, please let me know. If you do not want to take any action, just check in with *waiting to see what happens*. I will wait for all six to check in before describing the next scene.)



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

Garyth strides forward, passing Rennik and approaching the man. His posture remains loose and easy, though a hint of a frown touches his lips. "What's going on here?" he demands.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

BTW, I do not need a check in from Cadfael, as he is still praying right now. :)



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

Waiting to see what Garyth, Rennik, and Mission do. Much as I'd love to run around the back of the house, sometimes prudence must stifle curiosity. :)

I hope they aren't looting, but I'd be willing to bet they are. I'm sure they've spoiled any evidence that may have been left. :(

Raja (Sa'id)



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

waiting to see.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

Rennik quickly appraises the situation, looking specifically for cover and any other possible guards. If there are horses, he will take a count to know just how many people the party is dealing with. He then notches an arrow and aims at the door as he calls out to the man.

"Tell them to stay inside! Who are you? Why are you here? Lie, and you die where you stand!"

(conditional responses:

If someone emerges from the door bearing a weapon after he has spoken his piece, he will fire.

If the man with the crossbow readies his weapon to fire (and there is cover available) he will dive for cover. If there is no cover available, he will fire at the man with the crossbow, called shot, head.

If the man tells the others to stay inside and wishes to speak with us, Rennik will keep the arrow trained obviously on the house (instead of the man) and will listen.)



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

(Okay, so my email took a little too long to write... grr... an adjustment after reading saxon75's action)

In any event, Rennik would step on Garyth here. He spoke first, but Rennik still performs as written. He would ignore Garyth as though he were some rabbit hopping up to sniff the end of the hunter's knife.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

Farron will move to within range (35', I think) and at the least sign of hostility or resistance will cast "Shatter" on the unknown man's crossbow. (We are with a member of the town guard after all, so anyone with good intent would be very obsequious about now.)



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (2)

Several things happen all at once.

Garyth strides confidently forward to parlay, hoping for a peaceful resolution. Rennik, quickly makes this more difficult by threatening everyone in sight with his bow (I love Rennik, he kills me :)), and Mission and the two Wizards hang to the back, waiting to see what happens.

The man with the crossbow straightens up and faces you again, but someone inside the house says something to him, and he keeps his crossbow at his side.

The person who spoke comes out the door, and it turns out to be a tall woman of stunning beauty. She is nearly as tall as Cadfael, and dressed in battered but very serviceable full plate armor. On her back is a large metal shield, and still sheathed at her side is a heavy looking longsword. Her helmet is off, and you can see a long, thick braid of dark red hair running down over her shoulder. You notice that the armor has recently had some symbols removed from it, by the cleaner spots left behind, and the rivet holes where such symbols were probably attached.

She is gesturing in a placating manner to the man with the cross bow with her left hand, and keeps her right hand where you can see it. When she has moved past the crossbow man, she speaks.

"Hold now. There is no reason to take actions we can't easily take back. We will be on our way in a few moments, and we will avoid the delay that killing you all would cause, if we can."



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

Just as Sa'id is about to smile appreciatively at Garyth's diplomatic approach, Rennik makes his own (considerably more aggressive) statement. Observing Farron's movement and surmising that he is ready to cast a spell, Sa'id starts to back up slowly, planning to circle around behind the farmhouse. However, at that moment someone emerges from the door and Sa'id's heart splashes down into his intestines.

"There's something about women in armour," he thinks to himself, but makes a point of not staring. He does, however, stop moving backwards and instead moves toward the front of the group, flanking Garyth and standing between Garyth and Rennik. His gaze flicks from the woman to the man at the gate, but he does not, as yet, speak.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

In reply to Matt's questions:

You can not see any horses from your current position, but horses tied up out back would not be visible to you in any event.

There is not much cover here, at most a few small bushes. However, within 20 yards is the farmers wheat field, which would provide good soft cover should the need arise.



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (2)

For a moment, as the woman appears, Garyth gapes at her beauty. At her words, though, his jaw tightens.

"Strong words for such odds. But we're not here to fight. Who are you, and what are you doing here?"



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (1)

Rennik starts to breathe a bit more heavily, and his eyes shift back and forth between the woman and the man with the crossbow. Part of his mind is itching to drop the bow, unfasten his axe and take the woman out at the knees before she can get her shield off her back. The thought makes him smile.

We're not here to fight? Rennik disagrees. Rennik's always there to fight. And that was a threat. Definitely a threat. His teeth clench, and a low growl can be heard from the back of his throat by anyone within 5 to 10 feet. He pulls the bow a half an inch tighter.

"The delay would indeed be long, swordwoman! Until your gods could resurrect your bleeding body! There are two questions I have not heard answers to - speak before you take another step!"



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (2)

Just so you know, I won't post new actions until everyone checks in, even if it is only a *waiting to see*.

I don't want to get ahead of anyone who isn't an email junky. :)



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (2)

Sorry,

Farron notices the woman, but mostly because of her affect on the other men in the group. She *is* pleasant enough on the eyes, but really nothing to drop one's guard over. In fact, he immediately increases his guard as tension in the group rises. He maintains himself ready to cast a spell if the need arises, but holds off for now in the chance the group may learn something before blood starts getting spilled.

He also makes a mental note that the halfling should be discouraged from participating in the more diplomatic phases of future encounters. Maybe he can suggest to Garyth that he try to reign him in a little.

Elise (cont'd), Farmhouse Search, What to do next?

From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (2)

Mission grimaces at Rennik's aggression. The wizards, apparently, aren't the only ones who will need watching.

Mission steps forward with an easy smile. "We don't really want to die. I'm sure a solution can be reached, wherein you find it in your heart to spare our FIVE lives, and where the TWO of you explain what business you have here."

He keeps his eye on the cabin door, though.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

The woman smiles at you, and holds both hands in front of her in a calming gesture. She turns to the man at her side and says in a voice loud enough for all of you to hear, "Lenny, go bring the horses around, would you?"

She turns back and crosses her arms, she speaks directly to Rennik. "The names of my men are not important, but you may call me Dame Elise if you wish, little one. Our business here is our own, but it may be the same business you are on. Your temperament tells me that we may in fact be on the same side in this matter."

"When Lenny returns with my horses, my men are going to come out the door and mount up to leave. They will not draw a weapon."

"If you are considered valuable, then I do not wish to damage you before our new master has a chance to look you over. If, after that time you still wish to test yourself against me, I'm sure I can make myself available."

Then she just stands there, waiting with her arms crossed and a pleasant smile on her face. She possesses an astounding personal magnetism. She is beautiful, of course, but she also seems wrapped in a cloak of absolute self confidence. Rennik is thinking that she might make a powerful enemy. The rest of the men are wondering what it might be like to call such a creature 'friend'.

(I am going to pause here, in case anyone wants to take an action prior to Lenny's reappearance with the horses.)



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

No action. Sa'id defers to Garyth's authority.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

"New Master?" Farron asks, but otherwise takes no action. He will wait until he sees how Garyth responds to this information.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Rennik calms somewhat and eases the tension on his bow string an inch or two, letting the point of the arrow aim at the ground some feet in front of Dame Elise's feet. Something else is afoot here that has nothing to do with lycanthropes, he decides.

He whispers to Garyth before calling out to Elise again.

"From the looks of it, I'm just glad she can't see your rank and unit from your armor through the fog. We'd best play along - we don't know what her men are capable of just yet."

Turning back to Elise, he calls out.

"I will hold you to your word, lady warrior! I am Rennik, warrior of the Chorrdath, and the day of that test will surely come! Especially if your 'business' interferes with ours again! Tell our master I am still waiting to be properly presented before him!"

Again whispering to Garyth and the group, he says "Something larger is at play here than beasts. After we search the farm, I will track this band... I don't like her look..."



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Garyth opens his mouth, then closes it, tightening his jaw. He clearly isn't happy about being ignored, but, for now at least, he goes with it.

He whispers to Rennik without turning, "Agreed, this does not seem right."



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

A slightly puzzled look crosses Elise's face when Rennik mentions being "presented" to the master, but she says nothing.

In a few moments, Lenny returns leading a group of four horses, one of which is a powerful war horse in chain barding. Elise gestures back at the house, and two more men come out. Both have the same ruffian look as Lenny, dressed in rough leather armor and carrying a variety of worn and well used weaponry. They look at you with a mixture of curiosity and aggression, but say nothing as they mount up. When all three are on horseback, Elise gives a small bow and says, "Until then, master Halfling."

She then swings nimbly up into her saddle, and the four ride off to the east.



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Garyth unclenches his jaw, taking a deep breath. He glances at Rennik, then heads toward the house. He waves the rest of the party on, "Come on, we don't have any time to spare."



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Rennik stares after the four until they are out of earshot, then proceeds to the farm.

"What was *that* all about?"

Turning toward Sa'id, "What did you make of that, friend Sa'id? Your mind works faster than mine, but it feels that the attack on this farm might not have been random. This Elise did not have noble intentions. I will search for evidence of Horan and the other devil-boar, but I fear that we are dealing with something else entirely. It might be best if you searched the house to see what it was they were looking for - or taking."

Turning to Garyth, "Did you recognize her at all? Or know her name? She seems to have been a soldier once, from Nesalin perhaps? Could you tell from the armor?"



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Farron says, "I'm afraid it may have been a mistake to let them go without even questioning them. But for now the point is moot." He pauses to see if Garyth is going to take charge. If not he says simply, "I'm not sure it's a good idea for us to split up until we have checked the house and farmyard for dangers." With that he walks over to Sa'id and asks, "How do you think we should proceed with our investigation?"

(ooc- Ty, Farron will be looking over the grounds for anything that looks suspicious or out of place. Does he see anything?)



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Oops, I missed this one.

Farron will follow Garyth to the house. He will be checking for anything out of the ordinary or suspicious.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

(Out-of-character: I have read Garyth's, Rennik's, and Farron's responses to this message.)

Sa'id follows Rennik and Garyth toward the farmhouse, his eyes following the departing group.

"I'll wager that they have ruined the place for any investigation we could conduct. To believe this 'Elise' is not my inclination," he says to Rennik. "But nonetheless I must investigate the farmhouse to see what damage they have done. Garyth, was there any investigation done by the authorities in Overlook? Did they send anyone here? And has it rained since the attack took place?"

At the sound of Farron's voice, Sa'id stops walking and turns to him. "Prudent, as always, Farron. It is certainly possible that they have left traps for us to stumble upon." (OOC: And us with no rogue!) "However, when we venture inside I think we must leave someone out here to greet Cadfael on his arrival and to warn us in case Elise's group should return. Why don't I go inside with Garyth while Rennik checks for evidence of the wereboars or other tracks? You and Mission can either come inside or look around out here as you see fit."

Sa'id turns back to Rennik. "If you see anyone other than Cadfael coming, or if you find anything of import, whistle. I will come outside."

Sa'id then follows Garyth into the farmhouse.

(OOC: Ty, were the members of Elise's group carrying anything -- e.g. sacks, backpacks -- that could have contained things taken from the farmhouse? Saddlebags on the horses?)



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

"No, I don't know who she was. Still, there was something about her...familiar..." Garyth trails off, halting his advance as he searches his memory.

He turns back to Rennik. "There is an order of knights in Nesalin that I remember from my time there. Her armor looks like theirs, though she seems to have removed the symbols of their faith." He shakes his head. "I don't like how this looks." He turns and continues on to the house. "Come on, we can't delay too long here if we mean not to let them get too far ahead."



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Farron will remain near the door to the farmhouse, checking the immediate area and keeping a lookout for the cleric. "Likewise, Sa'id, call me if you need my assistance. I will keep an eye out for Cadfael." (And an eye ON our halfling friend, he thinks to himself.)



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Mission has not checked in, but his actions will not affect the following description, so I am going to send it out.

The farm:

Fortunately for the rogue free party, there are not traps. In fact, it appears that the group was just preparing to leave when you showed up. There are some signs that the house was 'tossed' but it's fairly obvious that the other group used it to camp for the night. There are signs that a fire was burning in the fireplace as recently as last night, and there are the remains of a meal scattered about. Dusted spots on the floor show that bedrolls were laid out, and lots of traffic to and from the water closet. The rummaging was probably an afterthought, as it is unlikely a farmer like this had many valuables.

The neighbors had already taken care of the animals here, so the barn is empty, and shows no signs that the group entered it at all.

It really does look like they just stopped for the night, and you caught them as they were leaving.

(Matt is being emailed the details of his tracking attempts)



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

were the members of Elise's group carrying anything -- e.g. sacks, backpacks -- that could have contained things taken from the farmhouse? Saddlebags on the horses?

They were indeed carrying bedrolls and packs. The horses all had saddlebags.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Sa'id laughs. "It seems we've been the victims of a well-executed bluff! But they have also conveniently ruined any investigation we could have done here."

(OOC: Ty, is there an 'upstairs?' Sa'id will try to find the bedrooms.)



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

OOC: Is everyone getting my emails?

Hm. . . I replied to the Femme Fatale, but my sweet words had no affect on her or on Rennick, apparently. :)

IC:

Mission bites the inside of his lip at being ignored. . . but he allows the strange woman to ride off with her entourage.

He will search around the outside of the home.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Farron will continue watching for Cadfael and looking for anything out of the ordinary. He sends Jack (the weasel) out with instructions to look around the farmyard for anything not normal and come back quickly if he finds anything.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

As expected, Rennik finds little of any value regarding the beasts that attacked the farm. It has been a week since the attack, and there have been many on the farm moving animals from the barns since then. At least one group has camped for the night, which may have been the recent party or no.

The tracks of Elise's band, however, lead off toward the East... as to all other tracks to and from the farm. At least any that remain from the past week. The halfling approaches Farron and reports what he has found - effectively nothing.

"There is little use in my searching the house. I trust Sa'id would be far more observant of such intricasies... but I fear if we delay too long that we may lose our new 'friend' Elise. That all depends on whether she wants to be tracked or not, judging from the company she keeps. I'd wager at least one was a ranger."

Rennik fidgets and looks into the distance for any trace of Cadfael. Sitting on a bale of hay near the door, he gnaws absent-mindedly on the toothworn, leather-bound haft of his axe while gazing blankly down the road to Overlook.

"We only waste time here. The lady warrior knows more than she lets on, and I feel there is some connection between her band and those that disappeared. Possibly Horan and the other devil-beast are in league with her unknown "master" or employed by him. Perhaps this family was murdered for a reason, rather than randomly slaughtered..."

He pokes his head inside the door to see if he can find Sa'id and ask what he can tell about those who lived in the house. What they might have been involved with "besides" farming...



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Mission speaks up at last.

"Where is the other farm that was raided by the lycanthropes? Is it possible that Elise is headed there? Or came from there?"



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

The other farm is to the southwest. It is further from Overlook that this one, but not in the direction Elise traveled. A look at your rough map will let you know that this particular farm is almost exactly one day's hard ride from Nesalin if you are traveling to the interior of the island.

Further searches inside the farmhouse yield no answers. These people look like they lived the normal lives of moderately successful farm folk. A few minor luxuries, and all the necessities of life, but nothing more.

The only thing of note, is how little blood was spilled inside the farm. Even with the son being able to get away to Overlook, there were still four more people in this family that were carried off. At most, you can find a few random spatters from minor wounds. Nothing that would indicate four people were killed, unless they were bludgeoned without breaking the skin.

You spend the rest of the hour poking around, but turn up nothing.

After enough time has passed, Cadfael is spotted walking briskly down the road toward the farm.

(turn 5 should be Cadfael's meeting with the group, and your decisions on where to proceed from here)



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

When Cadfael reaches the farm, Garyth recounts the events that passed in his absence. "There's nothing here, and I doubt we'd find much more at the other farm. If we're to track that Elise woman, we should be off before her trail becomes too cold."



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Farron agrees that if we are to catch up with Elise and her band we need to leave quickly.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Rennik is slightly annoyed at the delay and heads into the woods tracking Elise's trail.

"We have lost time. I doubt she would hide her trail, as she does not see us as enemies, but Elise is a cautious and dangerous woman. It is possible that she has left her man Lenny, or one of the others, back to discourage trackers."

"I assume I am the most experience tracker here, and I will go ahead to scout as a precaution. My axe will warn me if there is anyone very close, but I don't want any of you calling unwanted attention to us."

He stops and turns to Garyth.

"Make sure they stay together. I will leave more obvious marks on the trail if it gets difficult to follow... I'm sure even those unskilled in the lore of the wilds can track these hoofprints. Don't fall too far behind."

With that, Rennik moves off after Elise's tracks, his axe glowing faintly.

(OOC - Rennik will have shouldered his bow and taken out his axe before proceeding. He will be employing his Track feat (though it doesn't look like it'll be too difficult) and also Move Silently. At points, he will try using Listen to see if he can hear them up ahead, and if anything seems out of the ordinary, he will use Hide and Listen until he can figure out what's up)



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

If he has a moment, Mission will run ahead of the halfling to try and dissuade him from leaving the group.

"I don't like this business of beautiful women disappearing into the mists," he says, and his eyes are suddenly, but only momentarily, distant. He swallows and then continues. "But where is our guarentee that Elise has anything to do with the murders that have gone on here? What evidence do you have that she has anything to do with the lycanthropes? And if she has nothing to do with them, why do you abandon both us and your quest for vengeance to hunt her?"

"We have a diviner," his lips take a momentary downturn as if tasting something disagreeable. "Rennik, let us see if Farron can use his. . . powers to uncover something from this place. If he can tell us nothing, than we have not lost anything we do not have. If he can, however, we may save ourselves both time and blood."

"Elise said much that was woven in with half-told truths. She hinted we shared similar goals. Perhaps she hunts the lycanthropes as well."

Mission smiles calmly, easily. "As much as I wish to chase a pretty woman off into the bush, I can't help but think we may be acting a bit hastily to lay all our problems at her feet."

"Let us try the diviner's power, and see what it yields."



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

At the statements of Farron and Rennik, Sa'id looks somewhat incredulous, but he does not immediately speak. He nods as Mission makes a suggestion of his own, though.

"I feel that it is more important to investigate the other crime scene before we go chasing off after a band of rogues on horseback for no particular reason. First, the only association between them and the murders is their camp in the farmhouse. Second, it is clear from the house's interior that they merely used it as a rest stop and might not even know of the family's fate. Third, it's entirely possible that Elise simply spoke as she did to avoid a confrontation. As such, I would prefer that we not jeopardize our mission on the off chance that this group may turn out to be associated with it. What do you mean to do if we somehow catch them? Beat them into submission?"

Sa'id smiles. "No, let us carry on as though we had not met them here, even though they did ruin our crime scene."



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

(OOC - To clarify, Farron agreed that "If" the group's goal is to catch up with Elise and co., then the best course of action is to leave quickly. However, he is at this point willing to entertain other options. /OOC)

"The scene of the other disappearance is even older than this one. It is likely to be of less use than this one.

"This 'Elise', whether she may have been bluffing or not, has given us reason to believe she may know something about this mystery. We would be foolish to just assume her staying here was coincidence, though it may turn out that is the case. As for jeopardizing our 'mission', I think our mission is to find out what is going on. A mysterious stranger seems to have more potential to help us achieve this end than whatever cold and compromised trail might be left at the other farm.

"I think above all it is important for us all to stay together. Rennik, if the trail is as obvious as you think, waiting for us to accompany you - if we choose that route - won't make that much of a difference."

Farron walks over to Garyth and speaks quietly, "You are our mark of authority here. We will need you to take charge of this investigation. Perhaps you will want to explain to Rennik the importance of working as a team? At any rate, it is your decision I will follow unless you authorize someone else to lead us."



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

At Mission's words, Farron says, "I have not seen anything here that is not also apparent to the rest of you." He then adds in a somewhat jovial tone, "No love lost on us Diviner's, eh monk?"



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Sa'id listens intently to all that is said. "Well do I take your points, Farron, but the problem of what to do if we do somehow catch up to this group remains. They clearly had no wish to entertain us. What would be more interesting is where they came FROM. Can we determine this?"

Sa'id's expression darkens somewhat; he is clearly frustrated by the lack of anything useful in the farmhouse. You see a rustle beneath his sleeve, and then the lithe form of a small, light brown serpent slides out past his cuff and coils its way around his quarterstaff, tongue flicking in and out. Curtly, Sa'id nods at Farron and Garyth.

"I will, of course, defer to the judgment of Garyth in this matter, as he is the representative of Overlook."



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Rennik stares up at Mission, then turns back to the group to speak.

"We came to this farm to find information, a direction to travel, some clue as to what happened to these people. It was my assumption of devil beasts that brought us out here, though I have found no evidence of their presence at this farm. I tracked them to this side of the island, yes, but their whereabouts are unknown to me.

"But we came to this farm for clues, for evidence. From what I've seen, the only people who left this farm went to the east. All the tracks lead in that direction. This is also the direction Elise traveled.

"Beyond this, we have no sure knowledge of how long Elise and her band stayed here. They may have arrived shortly after the attack and may have more of an idea of what happened - or they may have had a hand in it. But her man with the crossbow would not have given us the chance to talk, had they had their way. Nor would she have. The group obviously has little regard for the law and decency, or they would have stayed at an inn rather than ransacking a deserted farmhouse.

"Had Garyth strode forward with honeyed words and the polished insignia of the guard, what do you think would have happened? A group of bandits approached by a single guardsman and a group of citizens? I'm sure Garyth is a great fighter, but he was foolish to think he could so easily approach an obvious watchman with a crossbow with kind words. That's a good way to get shot."

Rennik looks up at Mission with a fire in his eye.

"What proof have I that she has anything to do with this? None. What proof have I that she has anything to do with the devil beasts? None. What proof did we find at this farm? None. What more fresh and recent trails and track will we find at the other farm? None. What direction do we have *any* leads down other than east? None. So, monk, what would you have us do?"

"First, I do not abandon you all. We came to this farm to find a lead, we found one. She is traveling east. Will that lead bring us closer to solving our mission? I don't know. I also haven't heard anyone offering useful alternatives. Second, I do not abandon my quest. Whether or not the devil beasts were responsible here or not, they are in this area and I will find them. It is by pursuing weak leads and small rumors that has led me this far on their path, and I have lost them before when they have traveled as men. I will find them again."

Rennik again turns to the group.

"Friend Sa'id, I know your curiosity draws you to the other farmhouse, but the events are long past, and if this farm has had squatters and neighbors visiting, the other will have had more. Also, I mean not to *catch* Elise's group so much as catch up to them. They will speak more freely amongst themselves than they would in public, and I may be able to get within earshot."

"Friend Farron, you have little experience tracking and moving in open country. All my skills at tracking and stealth will be lost if I am bound to the clanging of armor and the sound of untrained footsteps. I did not suggest going off alone, just ahead. I had assumed our obvious course would be east, though possibly there is some major clue someone else discovered at this farm that directs us otherwise?"

The halfling stares at Garyth.

"Is there some other piece of information we should know from the guard that would point us in a direction more likely to find answers?"

More Discussion, Marching Order, Man in the Road

From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Very good point. I had forgotten that Rennick had ranger levels as well.

How are Cadfael's combat skills and AC? Does Garyth have any ranged skills? When our wizards aren't casting their spells, what do they use to fight?

Mission's main focus is mobility and unarmed combat (duh-- :) ). He has also trained hard to move quietly and to remain unseen. He acts quicker than most (Improved Initiative feat), which makes him ideal for quick, devastating melee attacks.

What are everyone else's feelings on this? I think Rennick should take point, but I'm not sure how to best protect the wizards without his strong arms there in front of them.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

"So, monk, what would you have us do?"

Mission does not answer swiftly. His voice is measured, calm. "I would have us consult, Rennick, and make a decision amongst equals and companions. You make points I had not considered. Wise points. And yet, you take it upon yourself to act on them, desiring us to follow and be content, seemingly on the mere fact that since it is YOUR desire, it is the right one."

Though is voice is mild, Mission taps his staff on the ground anxiously. The more he thinks on Elise and her men, the more anxious he grows.

But he says nothing. He waits for Rennick's response and Garyth's leadership.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Well, Farron has a crossbow and a dagger. He also has a Staff of Defence, too, but if it comes down to relying on him for non-magical combat, the group is probably done for anyway.

In a battle, barring logical necessity to do otherwise, Farron will most likely stay at the edge of his range for magical attacks and will resort to weapons only when his magic is useless or spent, then it will mostly be his crossbow, since his strength is pretty low.

Once a battle starts, and we know the direction from which the attack is coming, we can reasonably expect Cadfael and Mission to move up as required to be effective. The biggest challenge is to pay close enough attention that we don't get flanked.

(/my $.02)



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

(OOC: Tom and Matt, I believe this email is coming to the correct addresses, and that there's only one addy per person on this list.)

(OOC: Sa'id doesn't exactly have a combat-intensive list of spells, with the notable exception of Fireball. Fortunately, he is in possession of a well-built crossbow and a reasonable number of bolts. He likes the proposed "loose pairs" marching order, with Rennik scouting ahead of Garyth.)

The viper coiled around Sa'id's staff hisses at no one in particular. Sa'id blinks, pauses for a moment, then speaks in a much milder tone. "Mission," he says, "are members of your order greeted with an honorific as with Brother Cadfael?"

He waits for a response, nods, then continues. (OOC: If there IS an honorific, just assume Sa'id is using it until I find out what it actually is.)

"I am persuaded that pursuit is wise. If Garyth and Cadfael concur, let us proceed before we lose too much more time. I would rather be near a fire when night falls, even we are skulking around in the dark near the campfire of Elise's group."

As his tone softens, the viper slithers back into Sa'id's sleeve and, presumably, coils around his arm.

"I believe my familiar I have not introduced. His name is Aldon, after a close friend and former tutor of mine."



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Farron gives a loud whistle to call Jack back to him. After a minute the weasel scurries up his robe and onto his shoulder. "This is Jack", he says to the group.

(OOC - Are we agreed to move out? Ty, who still needs to check in? Let's get ROLLING!)



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Rennik looks up at Mission and speaks quietly, but with an edge in his voice.

"Equals. I do not tell friend Sa'id how to weave his spells. I do not tell Brother Cadfael how to pray or heal. When the time comes to do so, you will not hear me offering advice or delaying them. Those are their realms."

"You are ignorant of the wilds. I accept that. You do not realize what can happen to a trail in an hour's time. Two hours. Three. If they go out on open road, I may still be able to track them - but only if traffic on that road is light, and we are close behind. If they cross a river, their hoof prints will slowly wash away until there is nothing left."

"But, if you wish to sit around and consult, so be it." The halfling's voice raises as he turns away from Mission and addresses the group. "We can call a grand council every time a decision must be made! We can hold an election! I vote that *you* take point and track Elise and her party" he points at Garyth, "and you can look for signs of the beasts as well... seeing as we're all equal here."

Rennik pulls himself back under control, stares at the ground for a moment, and continues to Mission.

"There is time for action, and there is time for words. It seems, though, that because I am half your size that you feel my decisions have half the value. Perhaps my elven friends were right when they told me humans were slow-witted"

"When we get to a monastery, I'll be sure to question *your* every decision."

The halfling shakes his head while clenching his jaw, then looks away and takes another step along Elise's path.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Sa'id thumps the end of his staff soundly into the ground. Aldon, the viper, slithers out of his collar and arranges itself on Sa'id's turban.

"While you are right, Rennik, the reason for our current stupor is clear. Most of us, we met only last night. Only working together for a few short hours have we been. Once we have learned to work together well, then these things will be more clear. Until that time, we will continue to muddle through. Since this is the first decision we have had to make as a group and since we have no clear chain of command (situational or otherwise), we cannot be expected to be decisive." Sa'id smiles wryly. "Even though this situation clearly calls for decisive action."



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Mission speaks clearly, but with no edge at all to his voice. He maintains a calm attitude toward the bristling halfling. "I have not called your tracking abilities into question, Rennick. I only wish that you would share your intentions with those who will be assisting and protecting you. That we might better be able to do so."

"I am not calling a council. I am asking your advice, friend, and your reasons for your belief. You have supplied those, and unless Garyth or Cadfael can offer better advice, I find your way to be sound."



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Yeah, pretty much. I have some defensive magic (Mirror Image) and some offensive magic (Colour Spray, Ray of Enfeeblement, Scorching Ray, Fireball), and a few protective spells (circle vs. evil, etc)... the rest is non-combat stuff. :)

Oh noes! Teh DM si gone! Quick, spam him! ;)

*clicks 'send'*



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Garyth flushes and clenches his jaw, trying to keep in check his frustration at being challenged. "You needn't worry about my safety, Sir Halfling; I can handle myself if it comes to a fight."

He turns to the rest of the party, visibly trying to calm himself. "As I said, we have no guarantee of finding anything at the other farm. The Guard has uncovered nothing more that will help us. What we do know is that that woman and her men left in the same direction as all the other tracks. Since it's likely that the victims left in that direction as well, our best chance to discover more is to follow that trail."

He gestures in the direction of the tracks. "Rennik, if you would be so generous as to lend your tracking skills and take the lead? But try not to get too far ahead. I'm sure you're a great fighter, but it would be foolish to be caught alone in a fight against four armed opponents. That's a good way to get killed."



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

(OOC)

Regarding the ordering, Garyth doesn't have any specific ranged skills or feats, although he is carrying a composite short bow. I think keeping him near the front is a good idea, though. Our group has a decided lack of tank in it, but Garyth is extremely fast and would be able to react very quickly to any threat.

(/OOC)



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Okay, so, here's what I'm thinking.

If we pair up, sort of like this:

Rennik

Garyth

Farron Sa'id

Mission Cadfael

(that'd flank Sa'id with Garyth and Cadfael... who could administer touch healing more easily that way. ;) and it would give Rennik room to stop the party if it were needed)

If we have to single file it:

Rennik

Garyth

Sa'id

Mission

Farron

Cadfael

(that'd put Sa'id safely in the middle, with two strong arms in front, an armored strong arm in back, and Mission able to tumble past if need be in either direction)

Ideally, though, we'd put Sa'id in a large metal box with eyeholes so he can cast spells. :D



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

> Ideally, though, we'd put Sa'id in a large metal box with eyeholes so he can

> cast spells.

Bwahahahah! :D

Word. Maybe my Mirror Image spell will also replicate the metal boxes ;)

Ah, whatever, that's what he gets for not checking ;)

I think those marching orders are fine. We may need to go single-file at some point, so we should all be aware of both sets of marching orders.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Ok guys, I had to move our exchange server this morning, so my email was down till now. So, as soon as I finish reading the 50 or so emails, I will send out responses.

Is the email list above the one we want to use? No giantsdrink, and no tom's work address.

Is that correct?



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Hey now... I'll... I'll... cast Gentle Repose on you!

:D

(Which actually happens to be one of my favourite spells on my list, but it's very much non-combat ;)



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

I like this.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (4); inside the house

Ok guys, I've gone through the 50 emails. :)

I am going under the assumption that the final decision was to track Elise, and that the last marching order sent out is the one we will use.

Karl, Jack didn't find anything other than a tasty field mouse.

I am doing turn 5 using the above assumptions. It will be sent soon.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Cadfael notices it first. How quickly the party came to anger. "We are under a shadow here," he says to the group.

Rennik just snorts and heads off down the trail clenching his axe and muttering under his breath. After a few moments, the rest of the party gathers up their belongings and follows.

The morning sun has finally burned away the last of the remaining fog, and for this the Cleric says a brief prayer of thanks. With the fog gone, the party's spirits begin to lift, and before long Farron and Sa'id begin a drinking song they both learned as students. After the first verse, the rest of the group joins in.

Ahead, Rennik moves like a hunting dog; keeping low to the ground, the tracks of the horses never out of his sight. He also keeps an eye on his axe, which glows more brightly by the minute, far too quickly if Elise and her band are still moving.

Finally, he becomes concerned that an ambush may be ahead, and stops moving. In a few moments, he hears the sound of singing behind him. He shakes his shaggy head in disbelief and hurries back to tell them to quiet down.

One he has stopped the party, he moves forward like a shadow, using the sparse cover so well that he nearly disappears. Coming over the top of a rise in the road, he sees what looks like a man, lying in the middle of the trail and not moving. There is no one else in sight. The man is about a hundred yards away, and slightly down hill.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Ouch. Singing while pursuing?

And Rennick gets to berate us AGAIN for how little we know about tracking?

Methinks the Bezerker has a favorite.

:-)



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Not at all. But Rennik is quite a ways ahead, and Farron and Sa'id have never tracked anyone before.

If it is out of character for him, Mission was not singing. :)



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Several things, observational:

- Can Rennik identify with any certainty if this is indeed a member of Elise's party?

- Judging on the surroundings, is there sufficient cover to mount an ambush, or for a ranger to set up shop with a longbow?

- Can Rennik tell if the man is armed, if he has his pack with him, etc... as in, does it look like he would be prepared to jump up and fight, or was he stripped of his possessions? If he has nothing, is there anywhere within several feet of him that he could have hid his weapons?

- What sort of landscape is this? Forest? Plains with bushes and hills? Flat pancake country with some hills (notably this one)?

- Would it be an easy approach for Rennik to circle around and flank this prone figure without being seen? Or even just to get a closer, better vantage point?

Once he gathers all this information, he brings it back to the party and reports primarily to Garyth, with the tone of one fighter talking to another trained in the arts of a field soldier/fighter and assessing a situation.

If it is possible, Rennik would suggest that he find Mission a good patch of cover from which he could watch with his crossbow (along with any others with ranged weapons), while he snuck down to get a better feel for the lay of the land. Possibly Farron's animal companion (if the Diviner is up to risking it) could make its way down through the brush (off the road) to see what it can see, as well.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

"There once was a wizardly fellow

Whose disposition was mellow

He could never get laid

Not even for pay

But about this he never could bellow!"

:D

*Sa'id stops singing, and waits for Rennik to return with a report of what he saw*



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Conditional actions:

IF Rennik comes back, tells us about the man, and also thinks it's safe to run out to him, Sa'id will examine the body to determine whether or not the man is dead, and how he died if he is dead.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

- Can Rennik identify with any certainty if this is indeed a member of Elise's party?

Not from this distance, but the clothing is consistant.

- Judging on the surroundings, is there sufficient cover to mount an ambush, or for a ranger to set up shop with a longbow?

Not easily, it would be difficult for any human sized person to hide effectively here.

- Can Rennik tell if the man is armed, if he has his pack with him, etc... as in, does it look like he would be prepared to jump up and fight, or was he stripped of his possessions? If he has nothing, is there anywhere within several feet of him that he could have hid his weapons?

He is far away, but he looks like all he has is the shirt on his back. He is not close to any obvious hiding places.

- What sort of landscape is this? Forest? Plains with bushes and hills? Flat pancake country with some hills (notably this one)?

Plains with bushes and hills.

- Would it be an easy approach for Rennik to circle around and flank this prone figure without being seen? Or even just to get a closer, better vantage point?

He could get closer using stealth, as his size allows him better use of the low cover.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

So. . . Rennick is looking at the body, and we're. . . what?

Waiting for him to report? Following silently ( :) ) behind him?

How far is the body from where the main group is?



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

The main group is 10 yards or so from the top of the him Rennik is peeking over. So far he has not filled you in on the body.



From: Dan

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Cadfael is in the metal box that Sa'id covets. It's called a "breas plate" and a "helmet" :) He has the most solid AC of the group, weighing in at 21. His only weapons are a mace and a dagger, so should there be combat he would be in it, hand-to-hand.

Well, really he'd be casting support spells on the group, and making sure the fighters stay alive.

He's Ok with the marching order. He freely admits that he has almost no experience with combat outside of controlled settings while training for his order. He knows little of such things, and shows no real desire to.

As for what he does now, it depends on what Rennik tells us. Although, when Sa'id drops the song, he does as well.



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Garyth takes in the information from Rennik's report.

"I don't like the sounds of this. Rennik, does your axe respond only to those alive?"

He thinks for a brief moment, then unlimbers his bow and nocks an arrow. "I think caution will be the best notion. Mission, you cover the right flank with your crossbow and I will cover the left. Rennik, you take the center. We should move up to just below the rise and see what we can see."

He turns to the magic users. "Stay below the rise and out of sight until we have made sure it is safe. Farron, might Jack be up to scouting ahead?"



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Rennik's axe does only respond to those still alive.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Given the information about Rennik's axe, Sa'id whispers: "Try not to disturb the corpse, if you don't mind." But he stays put as asked.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

"If he's alone, it's no corpse. If he's dead, he's got company. My axe only responds to the living."

He turns to Garyth again.

"I don't know how much the ferret would even be able to tell us, but if Farron is willing to send him, we should wait for that information. If the animal can tell us nothing, I will go. There is not enough cover for any of you to safely crest the hill, but I think I can manage to get closer while still remaining unseen. If all is clear, I will motion you forward and protect your descent down the hill from cover."

Rennik makes a distinct "thumbs up" sign, then waves forward, to show what "all clear" looks like.

"If there is a threat, I will point in the direction of the ambush." Makes obvious pointing motion that looks *far* different from the "all clear". "If I feel I can do so without revealing myself, I'll hit our would-be ambusher in the head with a rock, like so" Rennik picks up a rock and tosses it twenty feet or so into a gopher hole. "Maybe I can get it to move enough for you two to hit it with arrows."



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Garyth nods. "Agreed. Mission and I will wait for your signal just below the crest, that way we can be out of sight and still close enough if there is a need."



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Rennik's axe IS glowing? My bad. I thought it wasn't.



From: Dan

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt (3)

Cadfael looks grim but makes no move for his mace, nor casts a spell. He is tense, but waiting to see what happens.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

We are just waiting for a check in from Karl and Scott.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Mission loads his crossbow. When it is time, he will take up a position as outlined by Rennick.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Farron makes a whispery chattering sound and Jack jumps down from his shoulder and darts over the hill crest, keeping to the high grass as much as possible.

His instructions are to check out the corpse(?) and the surrounding area briefly and report back. At any sign of danger he is to get into the underbrush and get back ASAP.

Farron will use his empathy with Jack to keep tabs on his progress, and will converse briefly with him upon return to find out whatever he can from the weasel.

Man in the Road Becomes Corpse in the Road

From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

With the utmost caution, the Rennik, Mission, and Garyth move to the top of the hill. It would be an extremely long shot to fire from here (100 yards), but it is an excellent defensive position should an ambush emerge.

A moment later, Jack the Weasel scurries past and slips into the underbrush. Tense moments tick past, but eventually Jack pops out onto the trail just a few feet from the man. He moves closer, and sniffs. The man rolls over just a bit at Jack's approach, but makes no aggressive moves. In fact, now that he has rolled over, the three on top of the hill can see that he is clutching his stomach with both hands.

When Jack is satisfied, he runs back into the underbrush and comes out a few moments later near Farron.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Not that Sa'id can see this, but if/when he is informed...

1) Is the man a member of Elise's party?

2) If so, I'm curious as to whether he could have been poisoned/infected by something they ate in the farmhouse.

So. If/when Sa'id gets the situation explained, he will fish out any material components required to cast Detect Poison and have the spell ready.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Rennik is unconvinced, though many of his fears of ambush are allayed. The man is alive, so he could indeed be alone. He moves quietly to his right to speak with Garyth.

"The man appears wounded, but I still stress caution. We have a very defensible position here, and I think we should use it. If one of our group were to walk down openly, in plain sight, I could shadow them from the underbrush.

"Were something to happen, the bait could turn and run for the hill crest, leading any pursuers to an ambush of our own, while I could cover his retreat. Were nothing to happen, he could check on the man and wave the rest forward.

"I wouldn't want to tell anyone to stick their neck out, but if you agree I will speak with Brother Cadfael - he is the most heavily armored and also most able to care for the man. If no one will volunteer, I will go alone."

Rennik will wait for Garyth's response then scurry back down to speak with Cadfael.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

So we're waiting for . . .???



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

::scurry, scurry, scurry::

Rennik drops back to fill in the magic types and speak with Cadfael - he'd also try to get any additional info out of Farron.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Ok.

We are waiting on Farron's info, and Cadfael's reply.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Once Jack finishes his chattering, Farron tells the group, "Jack says the man seems to be very hurt, possibly dying. He smells a lot of tainted blood." He adds, "If we're quick perhaps we can save him. He may be able to tell us something. If Cadfael is willing, I suggest he see if he is able to save the man. Here, you may want to take some of this, just in case." Farron rummages in his pack and hands Cadfael a sprig of the belladonna. "Careful, though, it still might be a trap."



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (1)

Just waitin' on Cadfael the lawyer now. :)



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Cadfael confidently strides down the hill to the fallen man. As he gets closer, he sees that this man was in fact one of the three that traveled with Elise. Though now, he carries no weapons, and his leather armor is stained with blood.

"What ails you brother?" Cadfael asks of the fallen man, crouching by his side.

With a grimace, the man lifts his head. "A dagger to the belly ails me, an no mistake." He collapses back, writhing in agony.

With a grim look, Cadfael raises his hands and prays. In a few seconds, his hands begin to glow with the warm powerful light of the sun an midday. Laying his hands on the man's belly, he transfers that healing glow. In moments the nasty wound to his stomach stitches closed. In spite of this, the man continues to writhe and moan.

Cadfael asks, "What else ails you? I have healed your wound."

The man spits a bit of blood onto the ground and says, "The bitch wanted to punish me; like as not she'll have poisoned her blade. Save your magics, priest. I've seen her use this poison before on others. The end will be slow and painful, but sure. I've never seen anyone live through it."

Despite his words, he does appear to be in less pain now that the wound is closed, though his color is still poor, and he is wracked periodically with spasms.

When it becomes clear that there is no danger, Cadfael signals to the fighters on the hill that all is clear.

(Dan, I need to know which spell Cadfael would have traded in for a healing spell. Next turn will occur when the party has joined Cadfael near the fallen man.)



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Once he gets the all-clear and an explanation, Sa'id will run over to the man and cast his readied Detect Poison spell to verify that the man has indeed been poisoned and that his ailment is not of some magical nature.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Rennik allows the wizards to do their work uninterrupted.

Instead, he uses his skills to have a look at the area around the man, the footprints and hoofprints, to see if he can get a better picture of what happened, if the group is still together, etc. Specifically, he wonders if one has veered away from the group, or if anything was left from the struggle with the man (that may have been dropped, forgotten or kicked under a shrub).

He would try to establish sightlines in case anyone were to come charging up, and keep close eye on anywhere where he (or anyone else for that matter) could take cover.



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

At Cadfael's signal, Garyth rushes forward, keeping his arrow nocked though not drawn. He kneels beside the man.

"Why would your own mistress stab you? And what were you doing at that farm?"



From: Dan

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Cadfael smiles down at the man, "These other men were not likely cradled in the hands of Pelor, as you are now. Rest easy brother, you are sheltered by God now, he will warm your heart, make your body whole and soothe your soul."

With that he calls out to the others, telling them to come forward. There is no danger here, or rather, what danger there is has passed. He then moves aside as Sa'id readies his spell.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

The man coughs again and looks at Garyth. "A guardsman, eh? Tracking us were you?"

He laughs a bit, till the pain makes him stop with a cringe.

"Aye, she stabbed me. Curse me for a fool. Long on sass, short on sense as my dam would say." He stops for a series of painful looking shudders. "I made the mistake of disputing her decision. I guess I'd finally done it one too many times."

He sinks back with a distant and wistful look on his face. "Ah, but I'd have liked to look on the black pillar even just once. To come this far, and die for a foolish word..."

He trails off. His eyes close, but you know he is still alive by his wracking shudders, and by the tears that begin to roll down his cheeks.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

(OOC: I've read every message up until Garyth's "black pillar?" message.)

Sa'id turns to Cadfael: "He is most definitely poisoned, and the toxin is very strong. I cannot tell what manner of poison it is, only that it will almost certainly kill him. I am not even certain that it could be cured at all if I knew what it was."



From: Dan

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

When Garyth's eyes pass over Cadfael, they pause.

He has not moved, but his eyes are alight with fury, face hard and dark.

His left hand grips his shield so tightly that his arm is shaking.

"Weep not for your body, man, weep for the soul you sold. I feel no pity for you, let the poison eat your body for you shall look back on this feeling fondly when your soul screams in agony after you die."

He looks up at Garyth now; face still cold and eyes narrowed in disgust.

"I know not what this... black tower is. But the fetid evil of this man boils off his body and clings to every breath he exhales. May he hurry to his death and rid the world of his filth, I would not stop the poison if I could, he has earned his wound."

"I would guess that his lady, this lady Elise, was once a knight of honour. Once the hand of good. But is now a blasphemer. She has removed all symbols of her God because they now burn her with righteous fire when her gaze falls upon them. Her master must reside in this black tower in the East where it defiles the air around it and blights the land wherever its shadow touches."

"I can stand his presence no longer, I will wait for you further along the road, far enough away that his evil can no longer sully my flesh. Linger not, brothers, you would not want him to leave a stain upon you."

With that, Cadfael turns hard and storms off toward the East.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Wow.

Excellent post, Dan.



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

I just need Scott to check in.

Also, if you have any other actions you wish to take with this man, or any other conversation near or with him, please get them in.

Thanks. :)



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

As Cadfael storms away, Sa'id turns to Farron.

"I have cast a spell of magic detection on the dying rogue. He is enchanted, though it is barely detectable. Shall I use a spell of nullification to remove the enchantment, on the off chance that his poison is magical in nature?"



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Sa'id turns to confer with Farron. While they are still speaking, Rennik seems to reach some private decision. He rushes over to the dying and grabs him by the collar. He then puts his head right next to the man's ear, and a low growling whisper can be heard. Several times the man shakes his head, followed by more harsh whispers.

Finally, the man feebly tries to push Rennik away and says loudly, "Enough!"

"I've had no loyalty to that bitch, and less now than ever." He stops to swallow and retch a bit.

"But I've no answers for you. We only camped at the farm. She told us not why we were there. She didn't put much stock in our advice on things, mostly."

"But two of my friends still ride with her, and I'll not sell them out to you no matter what tortures you threaten me with. They are cowards for letting her do me this way, but they are still my friends."

"And maybe you don't know what the black pillar is, but something tells me that one does." With that he points one shaky finger at Cadfael's retreating back.

This seems to take the last of his strength. He curls up in a horrifying spasm, and a strangled scream escapes his lips. His body jerks straight suddenly, and he vomits a stream of black blood all over himself and Rennik. Some of it even splashes onto the cuffs of Sa'ids pants.

After two more gut wrenching spasms, the man dies with his eyes open in a look of horror.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Rennik stands up abruptly, shuddering with anger, and wipes his face before howling at the sky and kicking the corpse in the ribs repeatedly.

A stream of obscenities pours from his mouth before being obscured in a mix of feral halfling tongue and abnormally harsh elven.

Giving the body a final kick, he stalks off several paces to a patch of tall grass and starts rolling around in it to clear the blood and ichor off his armor, hands and hair. Anyone who catches his eye can quickly tell that distance is warranted at least until the halfling calms some more.



From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Sa'id wipes the blood from his attire and then, turning back to Farron, rolls his eyes at the antics of Cadfael and Rennik. He follows it up with a sly wink before turning to investigate the bile-covered corpse.

(OOC: Ty, I want to try and figure out how he died -- i.e., what exactly the poison did that caused him to die. I'd also like to try to identify as best I can the "black blood" that he spewed out. If possible, I'd like to do all of this without getting too messy, but if I have to cut him open to do it I will.)



From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

You may attempt to do so, but the process will be lengthy. Does the group want to wait here while Sa'id does an autopsy? Or do you want to take the body with you? It would take several hours to gain any meaningful information.



From: Matt

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

At this point, Rennik is in no state to argue or offer any opinion. He's taking some valuable "calm down" time at the moment, and will likely growl at anyone who attempts to come over toward him.

His eyes shift back and forth between the corpse and Elise's trail, though, and you can tell that he's getting anxious to move again. He's just not at his most social right now.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

"We should move." Mission shoulders his crossbow, tucking the unspent bolt back into the quiver. He draws up his staff. "The Path is neither straight, nor soft-- but hard as Stone, hot as Blood."

With that, he tucks a pebble into the dead man's tunic, careful not to touch the blood that fans out over his chest.

"Elise will give us far better answers than this corpse."



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

There is very little good accomplished standing around-- so Mission patrols the immediate area, stealthily, quietly, keeping his ears open.

When the party moves, he will move back swiftly into marching order.

Ty and Scott on Vacation

From: Ty

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

I am flying to texas tomorrow and staying till Thursday. I won't be on this weekend, but I will probably be able to play during the week, at least one turn a day. If not, I will be back full time on Friday.



From: Scott

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

:)

I am also going on vacation Mon- Fri, but should be able to get in once a day. . .



From: Scott

Subject: AIM? Yahoo IM?

It's Saturday night, I'm at work. I'll be awake until about midnight if anyone wants to chat a bit.

j0shuabeekeeper (AIM)
jbeekeeper (YIM)

Question from Karl

From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Farron advises that this sounds like a good idea just at the man begins his violent death throws. "Well, I guess that makes the point moot. No reason to waste a spell now."



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Ty, if I cast "mount", could the corpse be loaded on the mount and transported with us until camp? If so, Farron will offer this as an option to Sa'id, stressing that this is an option only if he thinks an autopsy is absolutely necessary and not just for academic curiosity.

Sa'id and Farron Confer, Garyth Shaken

From: Raja

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Sa'id shakes his head. "I do not think it is necessary. I fear we might face Elise's poison, but as I have been unable to identify it even knowing how it kills would not probably aid us."

"However, your Mount spell may yet prove useful should the need to transport another corpse arise. I have a spell of preservation called Gentle Repose, it allows a corpse to be preserved without decay. While I do not think that we should use them here, it is useful to know that we have access to this combination of magics should we ever need to, for example, transport a corpse to Overlook."

Sa'id nods at Mission and Farron. "I agree that we should resume our previous course, and quickly. I apologize for my second-guessing, however curiosity is a part of my nature." He smiles wryly.



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Farron nods and says to Sa'id, "Yes, this spell has proved very useful to me in the past, though not in such a way as this. Perhaps when we get a day or two of peace again we could compare notes and perhaps trade a spell or two."

With that, Farron will wait for Garyth's decision on what to do next. He chatters out a thanks to Jack and rewards him with a fat junebug he caught off a nearby shrub.



From: Mike

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Garyth rises slowly, clearly a bit shaken by the man's gory death.

"Shouldn't we bury him?" he asks. "Or at least pull him off the road and put some stones over him? It just doesn't seem right, leaving a person to the vultures."

He stands a moment longer, staring down at the body, then suddenly seems to realize that Cadfael is getting further and further away. Before he is out of earshot, Garyth calls to him, then runs to catch up.

"What was all that about? And what is this black pillar he was talking about?"



From: Karl

Subject: Re: First day: the hunt; on the trail (2)

Farron simply comment, "I think we should leave him. The sight will prevent any locals from continuing further down this road, and clearly it will be in their best interests to turn back now." With that he turns and follows Garyth down the road.