Potion Inventory, Round 5 Results
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 4
I'm going to the beach today, so I'll be incommunicado until late afternoon/early evening. If the situation doesn't change seriously, Rennik will continue doing what he's doing... fighting with his two halflings and working them towards Garyth's group, at which point he'll start pounding on those.
Talk to you later on.
From: Dan
Subject: RE: Game Archives
Thanks for the archives :)
Good to know that you're not paying attention to what I'm writing, twinky
:)
Just to make sure nobody missed anything this is what I gave to everyone:
Rennik: 1 vial of antitoxin, 2 potions of cure moderate wounds
Garyth: 1 vial of antitoxin, 2 potions of cure moderate wounds
Mission: 1 vial of antitoxin, 2 potions of cure moderate wounds
Farron: 1 potion of cure moderate wounds
Sa'id: 1 potion of cure moderate wounds
From: Ty
Subject: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
(HP update: Garyth has 24 out of 43, and Rennik has 40 out of 47)
It is barely 30 seconds into the fight, and already weariness creeps into the combatants. It can be seen in the way blows are slower, and dodges and blocks are correspondingly slower as well. Though his face shows only grim determination, the back of Garyth's pants are soaked with blood from a wound in his ribs.
Rennik thinks, we must end this fight now. He has not lost his barbarian rage, but he adds to it a bit of ranger trickery. He turns his back on the wounded halfling, appearing to dismiss him as a threat. When the two halflings charge, Rennik winds up for a mighty swing at the opponent in front of him. That one skids to a stop, not wanting to get in range of the axe. But Rennik is already pivoting on one foot, letting the weight of the axe pull him around 180 degrees, and aiming the back of the axe at the wounded halflings head. It connects with a sickening crunch [Attack 19], and the stricken man falls like a wet sack of flour [Damage 14]. Rennik quickly swings back around to face his single remaining opponent. He keeps edging towards Garyth's fight while the halfling harasses him.
Mission tosses aside his crossbow in favor of more direct means. He shouts something in a strange tongue and leaps at the approaching spider. As he flies through the air in front of Farron, Farron notices that the tattoos that mark Mission's forearms and ankles have begun to burn with a bright light. When the first foot of his flying kick lands, there is a flash of light and a sound like a thunderclap. [Attack 20 possible critical, threat roll 20, critical hit] The blow shatters the spider like an explosion, hurling pieces of it as far as 20 feet away [Damage 20 + 1d6 blood and stone bonus of 6, total damage 26]. Mission lands lightly on his feet, and drops into a loose fighting crouch to face the two approaching halflings.
(Congratulations to Scott for scoring our first critical hit, and in such spectacular fashion too!)
Garyth doggedly presses on in attacking his four remaining foes. He gives up on finesse for a moment, and just grips his longsword with both hands and smashes it down on the halfling in front of him, hoping to batter aside the smaller man's defenses. It works. The halfling, who has become accustomed to Garyth's skillful fighting style, is unprepared for such an attack [Attack 22], and the blow cleaves his left collarbone [Damage 12], knocking him to the ground.
Farron saw all of this through glazed eyes. He is standing in the path of the two running halflings with one hand outstretched, and a small candle clutched in the other. Mission hears the last few syllables he utters, then sees a quick flash of light and two Giant Beetles appear between Farron and the halflings. (Augmented Beetles 6HP, AC 16, bite +1 for 2d4+2 damage)
Two of the halflings surrounding Garyth attack. One dives at his legs, the other charges him, hoping to trip him. The charging halfling runs right past his defenses and thrusts his short sword into Garyth's abdomen [Attack 21, Damage 6], causing Garyth to stagger back. The second halfling grapples with his legs [Attack 9], but Garyth is able to kick him away and avoid the trip. There is, however, another blood stain on the front of his armor.
Cadfael Arrives next to Farron and Mission, and now must decide whether to keep running toward Garyth, or to stay here with the Monk.
Sa'id runs through the middle of the dead spider and Farron and the two charging halflings. Almost as an afterthought, he stops and fans out the fingers of one hand and utters a quick incantation [Concentration check successful]. A blinding spray of multicolored light springs from his outstretched hand and envelopes the running halflings. [Will Saves 11, 20] One of the halflings collapses to the ground, stunned, unconscious and blinded. The other throws his hand up in front of his face and keeps running.
He runs straight at Sa'id with his short sword outstretched. He leaps forward striking an incredibly accurate blow [Attack 22, threat roll 1, critical failed], and one of Sa'id's doubles disappears in a flash of light.
Rennik's single remaining opponent continues to press his hopeless attack. He is clearly outmatched now, and his sword clatters off Rennik's axe in an easy block [Attack 14].
Garyth's two remaining opponents also appear to be running out of steam. They both attack, hoping to flank him again, but he has recovered his feet from the trip attempt, and he easily parries both. [Attacks 5, 6]
(After this round, Garyth is now down to 18 HP)
From: Mike
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
Garyth gasps as yet another of the halflings' blows strikes home. It's clear that he's weakening, but the look in his eye leaves no doubt about his spirit. He grips the hilt of his sword tighter and continues to attack the halfling he has wounded.
From: Scott
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
OOC: Couldn't have done it without you, Ty! :)
Mission stomach turns as he sees the conjured beetles. Not illusions, these, but summoned monsters. Summoned by his ally, and that is something that he must remember. Ally. A wizard, his ally. Mission sucks in his breath at the thought.
As he runs to face the single halfling menacing Sa'id and Farron he calls, "There a halfling mage loose around here! He disappeared, and then summoned the spider! Do one of you possess the magic to find him?"
Mission marks the stunned halfling-- perhaps a prisoner for later. He will use flurry of blows against the halfling that is attacking Sa'id.
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
Garyth was grappled in that 5th round, and I failed to give him his attack of opportunity. My bad. Please be patient with me. J
Game:
The Halfling that tried to trip Garyth attempts to stand up. While he is occupied with this, Garyth swings a quick backhand blow with his sword [Attack 17] that takes a bit of flesh out of the halflings back. [Damage 7]
From: Mike
Subject: RE: Game Archives
The archive is now complete through yesterday.
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
I am going to wait for Dan to check in, since he has some important decisions to make this round.
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
(OOC: I really hate power outages.)
Rennik's rage is tempered by confusion at why this halfling would continue his assault. He has lost three of his companions by Rennik's hand alone, while in a group, yet he persists alone. No wild halflings he has ever known or heard of have had such fanatical devotion to their attack, such mindless bloodlust. When the battle turns sour, you run and hide... then strike again unexpectedly... something evil is at work, and it is targeting halflings...
That thought makes him angrier, and he strikes to kill the last halfling and move to Garyth's aid. (Power Attack -2)
From the corner of his eye, Rennik notices the impressive display of force made by Mission and feels his confidence surge. The monk is a powerful companion, and has gained a measure of respect.
Lots of Hmph-ing, Round 6 Results
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
"The monk is a powerful companion, and has gained a measure of respect"
---while, of course, the wizard who drew two of your attackers off you is merely chopped liver. (hmph!)
From: Scott
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
From Karl:
> ---while, of course, the wizard who drew two of your
> attackers off you is merely chopped liver. (hmph!)
Keep it up, and you will be! :)
I'm sure Rennick just hasn't noticed your efforts. Yet. Because magic missile is SO impressive. Like, only the most POWERFUL of mages can cast it. A spell of most dread and weighty proportions, magic missile. How can he not comment on your efforts? He must be in awe.
:D
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
(Sniff) If anyone needs me, I'll be in my trailer (Farron leaves the set to go sulk in trailer)
From: Dan
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
(OOC) Suddenly Cadfael's batteries come back to life. With a *diagnostic complete* light returns to his eyes and he surges back to life. Go team power! Sorry for the delay, guys.
Cadfael sees one halfling fall to Sa'id's magics and notes that it is now the 2 wizards, the monks and 2 summoned monsters against one halfling. Surely they can deal with that? Besides, he's none too eager to enter combat himself.
He carries on past them, hussling toward Garyth, sweaty hand gripping his mace and ready to give one halfling a solid knock on the back of the head. Hearing Mission talk of some wizard, he also keeps on wary eye out for some suspicious looking halfling.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
(OOC: Rennik kinda sees Magic Missile as cheating. Plus, he whacked a halfling with some beams of light and made it angry.... Mission made a huge spider explode with his foot. Slight difference.)
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
Yeah, yeah, I get the message. Wizards get no respect. (Again I say "Hmph!")
From: Scott
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
:snicker:
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
Hmph!
Hmph, hmph, hmph, hmph, HMPH!!!!!!!!!!!
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
"I didn't get a harrumph out of you!"
"Harrumph!"
"You watch your ass."
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 5
OMG! I just watched that movie last night. Quelle coincidence!
From: Ty
Subject: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
(I haven't heard from Sa'id for this round, but I assume that is a blackout related issue, and I have his old move declaration to go on, so I will go ahead and do round 6 before the weekend)
The fight is ending. Those combatants in full control of their minds can feel it. Though Garyth still struggles desperately against four opponents, two of them are seriously wounded, and help is coming quickly. Rennik continues to drive his attacker toward Garyth's group, and without help, the single halfling is unable to effectively resist. Cadfael rushes up the hill to Garyth's aid. Sa'id is moving to assist. The feeling of, "It's almost over, everyone is going to get out alive" is nearly palpable.
Rennik, having pushed the halfling around enough, decides to finish him. He confidently lunges forward swinging his axe in a vicious arc at his opponents head. When discussing it later, Rennik will vehemently claim that blood had made the grip of his axe slippery, but whatever the reason, his blow lands nowhere near its target. [Attack 1, automatic miss]
As Sa'id continues up the hill, counting on his illusionary doubles to protect him from the one remaining conscious enemy, Mission moves forward to keep the halfling from pursuing the wizard. The halfling ignores him, to his great regret. As the halfling attempts to move past Mission, Mission strikes him twice in the throat [Flurry of blows -2; Attacks 22, 14]. Only one of the blows hits the exposed neck, but it lands with devastating force [Damage 13 versus 3 remaining HP; -10]. The halfling's neck snaps so loudly that Garyth and Rennik can hear it even through the din of their own fights. He is dead long before he falls.
Garyth hacks down again on the halfling he already damaged. His blow batters aside his opponents defenses again [Attack 24], and the already wounded shoulder is split open down to the rib cage [Damage 10] instantly killing the halfling.
Farron, confident now in Mission's ability to protect him from harm, is ignoring the closer opponents in favor of those pressing Garyth. He decides to finish off one of the wounded, and once again points a finger and utters a few harsh syllables. Three move rapid streaks of energy strike the halfling that tried to grapple Garyth's legs, and pierce him through [Damage 3, 3, 2]. In just a few seconds time, Garyth has gone from four active opponents to two.
Cadfael rushes up to the fight, and will be able to take actions next round.
Sa'id, had planned to use a color spray on the group attacking Garyth. Now, with only two left, and with two of his own companions so close by, he decides to use a more accurate spell. He points at one of the remaining two halflings, and a lance of fire erupts from his fingertip [Ranged touch attack 17], and burns the hapless hobbit alive [Damage 2, 4, 2, 4 = 12]. Though his target does not die, most of its body is covered with severe burns, and it looks moments from expiring.
At this point, any opponent with even an ounce of logic or reason would be surrendering, or running away.
These halflings do neither. Instead, they continue to hurl themselves at the attack. Rennik's opponent lunges at him, stabbing with its short sword in an attack that would normally miss, but hits because Rennik's berserker rage has taken away some of his defensive mind set [Attack 16; Damage 5]. Garyth's remaining opponent (who isn't currently smoking) also presses his attack. But now, with only one opponent to worry about, Garyth's superior swordsmanship is displayed, and the attack is easily knocked aside [Attack 10].
(Cadfael can act next round, for the very first time in this fight! Yay)
From: Ty
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6 addendum
Karl, I didn't mention what your beetles did, but if you want, they can have devoured the unconscious halfling, or they can have started moving up the hill to Garyth, just let me know. Devouring the unconscious guy is a free attack, coup de gras, and requires no rolls.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
Farron, now seeing that the battle is nearly over, begins to search the area in earnest for the missing halfling leader. He is looking and listening for any sign that might betray this last enemy's whereabouts. He chatters to Jack who jumps down and darts through the grass and brush to see if he can sniff anything out.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
(OOC: See, that, in a Werewolf game, would easiy have garnered me a point of temporary rage... grumble, grumble... I missed, and the little bastich hit me...)
Rennik howls as the sword sword pierces his body and brings the axe down on the shoulder of he halfling's offending arm, hoping to sever it (and its sword) from the aggressor's body. (again, Power Attack -2)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6 addendum
(OOC: Okay, I'm back in the world of the living... at least for now. I hate Ernie Eves. "Ontario will be fine for power this summer," MY ASS, Mr. Premier. What a knob.)
Sa'id turns as Mission dispatches his pursuer. "Thank you, Mission," he says with a smile and a nod. Then, opening his scroll case, he turns to look at the empty area where the halfling leader disappeared. He quickly reads the incantation -- Detect Magic; Sa'id hopes to determine precisely where the leader was when he disappeared, and where the spider summong spell was cast or took effect.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
Garyth swallows down a surge of relief; the fight is not over yet. Grimacing in pain, he focuses on his remaining opponent. Disarming him would be useless; it is obvious that if he is left nothing else the halfling would use his teeth. Garyth moves to finish him off.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
(OOC: I'm going to be out of town until Sunday night, and I can't promise I'll be able to get online. Sorry guys.)
From: Scott
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6 addendum
Mission grins cheerfully at Sa'id. "You're welcome." But then the wizard removes a scroll, and the words he speaks, unnatural, wild, chaotic words, make Mission shudder.
The halfling he killed-- as wild an chaotic as magic. Mission remembers the look in his eyes. Bestial. Devoid of hope and sense. . . he cannot shake the feeling that it wasn't the halfling he was fighting at all. . .
Mission will keep one eye on the Garyth's and Rennick's mop-up activities, but will focus on listening for the remaining halfling. He will continue to remain close to the mages to protect them from any suprises.
Archive Update, Mike Is Cool, Cadfael Joins The Fight
Subject: Re: Game Archives
Now complete through 8/15. I also added some slightly more descriptive titles for ease of browsing. From here on out I won't bother letting you all know when I update unless it's something important.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Game Archives
Thanks. I think it's cool that you are doing this.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Game Archives
What Karl said. The archive is awesome. If you ever need any help formatting the emails as plain text or however it is you're doing it, let me know (though I recently deleted my own archive, so you'd have to forward them to me).
From: Dan
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
Cadfael closes in on Garyth's fight, his chest heaving from the long run through the forest. Looking around him it is clear that the fight is almost finished, only a few enemies remain standing.
He notes the blood staining Garyth's clothes and realizes that more of it is his than he would like, but the wounds are not yet life threatening. Better to take care of the dangers now and deal with the wounded in the relative peace that should follow the battle.
Gripping the haft of his mace he mutters, "Pelor, forgive me the wounds I must inflict." and swings at one of the remaining halflings.
(OOC I don't think I sent this in yet, did I?)
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 6
Nope. At least, I hadn't seen it before.
Worries About Ty, Round 7 Results, Mailing List Intro
Subject: RE: Game Archives
Would you mind sending out the archive URL again? I want to do some reading while I'm here at work ;)
..is Ty on vacation? Or has the game moved on without me or something?
From: Mike
Subject: RE: Game Archives
The archives are at http://www.sakeriver.com/game/
Has anyone even heard from Ty? I'm starting to get a little worried. I haven't even seen him on AIM.
From: Ty
Subject: RE: Game Archives
Sorry guys, I'm back.
I had to teach a class on inventory management, and it was ALL FREAKINGDAY!!!
I hate that.
Next turn coming in just a moment.
From: Ty
Subject: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
It has ceased to be a fight, and has become butchers work now.
Rennik brings his axe down in a powerful stroke aimed at his enemy's shoulder. The blow is accurate [Attack 21] and powerful [Damage 15]. His goal is achieved, and the arm is totally severed. The halfling falls to his knees gasping and spraying the area around him with blood, then falls over and goes about the quiet business of dying.
Garyth too, just wants the fight to be over. He thrusts at the unwounded halfling still facing him [Attack 15], but his blade is turned aside by his leather armor.
Farron has stopped fighting in favor of searching for the halfling that disappeared. He and Mission, accompanied by the beetles (I typoed that as the 'beatles' the first time. 'Ringo makes a tracking roll! George casts prismatic spray!) begin combing the area while avoiding the remaining fight.
Garyth's opponent continues his suicidal attack, lunging at Garyth's thigh [Attack 11], but easily deflected away.
Cadfael rushes up to the fight just in time to see the badly burned halfling getting up. The halfling is covered in horrific burns, in large sections his skin is falling off like snow, exposing raw open wounds underneath, and yet the creature picks up its sword, and prepares to attack Garyth again. It is beyond reason. After uttering his prayer, Cadfael strikes the wounded creature, uttering "Be finally at peace" as he swings. The blow lands directly on top of the halfling's head [Attack 19], and is exceptionally powerful [Damage 11]. The stricken man drops to the ground instantly dead.
Sa'id reads from his scroll. When he finishes, there is a glimmer to his vision. Some of the weapons and armor of his party gleam with various enchantments, but he expected that and ignores it. Harder to ignore is Mission. All down his arms and legs there are runes that glow like fire. Still, there is a purpose to this, and Sa'id determines to look into the mysterious monk at another time. He prowls up the hill casting his gaze left and right. At the top of the hill, perhaps 50 feet in front of the copse of trees in which the halflings hid, is a faint aura of conjuration, probably from the spider summoning. There is, however, no hint of the invisible halfling, or any remnant of the spell he used to disappear.
(There is one halfling left fighting Garyth)
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
(OOC: (There is one halfling left fighting Garyth)..... not for long... )
Having dispatched his last opponent, Rennik looks toward Garyth and notices the blood seeping out from under his armor, likely causing the lack of vigor in the fighter's last attack. Rennick sees the threat and moves to overtake the halfling, moving the final few feet toward the melee and planting the blade of his axe in the halfling's spine. (Power Attack -4... goin' for the gusto on this one)
When the halfling has fallen, Rennik will scan the perimeter for any other threats (still raging).
From: Scott
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
Mission almost stumbles over his own feet as the runes on his limbs light up with the touch of Sa'id's spell. He supresses a groan of disgust and wills himself to look away from the wizard. That was the trouble with magery-- it was wild, unpredictable, touching those it had no right to touch, stealing into minds and flesh, violating. . .
Mission rubs the tattoos on the insides of his wrists, and reminds himself of the values that each of the runes represents.
Mission has never felt the need to hit something so keenly since leaving the Mossground. And his eyes fall on the halfling struggling against Garyth.
Mission will attack the halfling using Flurry of Blows. (If he can reach him in this round)
(OOC: Are any of the halflings alive and unconscious? I thought one hit by the Color spray was. . .)
From: Ty
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
The halfling hit by color spray was munched by Farron's bugs.
PS Scott, Mission would not have seen his tattoos light up, since the detect magic spell only affected Sa'id, but your writeup was so cool, that we will just say that Mission's sensitivity to such things warned him that Sa'id was viewing him magically.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
Farron notices Sa'id reading his scroll too late to stop him. I could've cast that and saved us a scroll, he thinks to himself; we really need to talk about coordination before the next battle. "Do you see anything, Sa'id?" he asks. In a whisper to Sa'id he adds, "I can cast a spell to try and disrupt his invisibility if we can figure out his general vicinity. Alas, the coverage area is not as big as this field."
Farron will continue looking for any sign of movement or presence of the missing halfling, and Jack and the beetles will do the same.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
(OOC - Boy! I'd hate to be that halfling! He's gonna be puree in a minute.)
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
Garyth curses inwardly for missing the last blow. How many times had his father rebuked him for slacking when victory was near? He redoubles his efforts to end the fight.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
(OOC - applauds Mike for a nice touch in explaining the unfortunate roll.)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
"GAH!" Sa'id stamps his foot and staff in frustration. Hearing Farron's words, he turns to face the other wizard. "No, it didn't work. I detected all of us -- Mission glows like the sun -- and the residual aura of your summoning spell. Even if the aura from the halfling's invisibility spell hadn't quite dissipated when I cast the spell, it will almost certainly be gone now. We'll have to hope that he comes out." (OOC: that aura lasts 1-6 rounds, and now it has been seven rounds since it was cast, IIRC)
"Khara y'lutt wijj'ak!" he curses at the invisible halfling, his voice louder than is perhaps appropriate. ("May shit be smeared all over your face.")
From: Ty
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is Joined 7
I just need info from Cadfael. I need to know if he is fighting, or if he is healing Garyth, or what. :)
From: Mike
Subject: Mailing List, sort of
In a further attempt to streamline the gaming process, I was wondering what you all thought of setting up a sort of mailing list. I can set up an email forwarding account through my domain, something like game@sakeriver.com or whatever, that will auto-forward anything sent to it to everyone. It's not quite as automated in terms of subscribing, unsubscribing, and archiving as a real listserv, but it would save me the trouble of having to check to make sure all the email addresses are included every time.
Speaking of which, did Tom and Anne Kate ask to get dropped from the list, or did we just forget them?
Battle Ends, Scrolls, Some In-Party Friction
Subject: Re: Mailing List, sort of
OOPS!
Looks like we dropped them. Not sure when that happened.
Where is dan the lawyer?
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Mailing List, sort of
Sorry guys, been having problems with a flakey internet connection for the past few days.
Anywho.
Cadfael looks sadly down on the broken and burned halfling at his feet. He looks up to see another halfling standing and grits his teeth while advancing on him, so focused that he does not notice that the rest of the party seems to be thinking the same thing. Once again he raises his mace and brings it down on the poor creature's small frame.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Mailing List, sort of
Maybe we can just give Tom and AKA the link to the archive. Then they won't get inundated with our emails, but can still check in on the game if they want.
Round 8 in just a second.
From: Ty
Subject: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
It is a scene to bring pity to the heart of even the most cold blooded combatant. A single halfling, in ragged leather armor and wielding a crude short blade stands with teeth bared facing off four powerful warriors. And yet, there is no quarter to be given. The halfling rages and thrusts at those closing on him, and shows no signs of even considering surrender.
Rennik is less aware of this than the others, perhaps. His barbarian rage is at it's peak, and while it grants him almost superhuman strength in battle, it also clouds his mind to some degree. While the others approach with grim looks, Rennik charges with the battle glee still on his face. He winds up for an incredibly powerful swing, throwing all his weight into it. The swing [Attack 10] fairly whistles through the air, but the air is all it hits. The nimble halfling, demonstrating that it has not lost *all* sense of self preservation, jumps backward away from the strike.
The halfling's amazing leap of evasion carries him out of the range of Missions two quick strikes as well. [Attack 1, automatic miss]
Unfortunately, being surrounded, the leap had to take him closer to an attacker, and he lands right in front of the bleeding and angry Garyth, who takes the opportunity to drive his sword [Attack 22] into his back [Damage 12]. The halfling falls to its knees, face contorted in pain, and looks up just in time to see Cadfael approaching, mace held high. The last thing the halfling ever hears in this world is, "Be finally at peace" before a heavy mace smashes into his face [Attack 23] and erases him from the world [Damage 10].
Farron and Sa'id continue to search the area, but in vain. There is no sign of the halfling that disappeared. After a few more moments, Farron's beetles disappear in a puff of smoke.
(send me post battle turns)
From: Scott
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Mission will search the remains of the halflings for anything interesting.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Sa'id ignores the conclusion of the battle, focusing instead on his discussion with Farron.
"If the leader was maddened in the same was as his followers, he is still in this area and likely to attack us by some means." Sa'id pauses. "Wait... a spell the invisible halfling cast. Should not that have dissipated his enchantment? And what of the mind-affecting portion of his spell? Perhaps it was not a simple enchantment at all..."
Fighting off a sudden urge to simply loose a fireball at some randomly-chosen area, Sa'id and his three doubles put their quarterstaves down and draw their crossbows. (OOC: My round will be getting the crossbow out and loading it.)
From: Dan
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Cadfael frowns at Mission as he rifles through the Halflings' belongings, obviously not approving of looting the dead. "I suppose we must do what we must" he mutters, and joins Mission in searching the dead. Pausing long enough at each body to close their eyes, fold their arms over their chests and say a prayer over their bodies. "I would normally burn the dead and let Pelor welcome them into his arms, but I fear these will find no home in Pelor's halls. Rennik, how does your God tell you to treat your dead?"
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Farron turns to Sa'id and the cleric, "I'm guessing you won't be needing an autopsy to determine cause of death here," he says grimly. "Clearly these halflings have been driven mad or are under some dark spell to have attacked us so fiercely even when the outcome had become clear. Do you know what could have compelled them so?"
He turns his gaze to look directly at Cadfael, "I can't shake the feeling that you know more than you are letting on about the dark forces that are working here. If there is something we should know, honor demands you keep us informed."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
As the halfling expires, Garyth sinks to his knees, letting out a long breath. He absently wipes his blade on a nearby patch of grass, seeming a bit dazed. A moment passes; he sits, wiping his blade and bleeding. Finally, he seems to come to his senses. Garyth tries to stand, and, as he does, finally becomes aware of his wounds. He falters and sits again, removing his pack and rummaging through it to find the healing draught that Cadfael had given him.
(OOC: This constitutes my test of the mailing list. Tom and Anne Kate, I can add you to the list if you like, or if you would prefer not to have your mailbox constantly flooded, you can browse the archives at http://www.sakeriver.com. Let me know what you prefer.)
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Rennik releases his rage and begins to calm some, allowing the head of his axe to fall to the ground while still gripping the haft with his right hand. Breathing heavily, his shoulders slump a bit and his ragged breaths come with a bit of a growl as he stares from beneath furrowed brow at Garyth.
"Your wounds are a lesson. Be glad you did not face twelve of *me*. You would do well not to underestimate halflings again... we will talk more on this again when I am less likely to add to your injuries. When we camp tonight, words must be spoken. If our enemy had been greater, you would be dead. And likely more of us."
Rennik shakes his head wearily and collects his bow. He moves off toward the fallen halflings to examine the bodies, hoping to find some reason for their attack, or some hint at their origins.
Turning to Cadfael, "Among followers of Mielikki, we bury our dead naked in the earth so that they may contribute to the cylce of life, returning our bodies to the roots of the trees and creatures of the ground. I know not the gods of these halflings."
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Farron puts a hand on Garyth to stop him from drinking the draught. "I'm sure our cleric friend here would be more than happy to offer you his healing arts," he says. "It would be better to save the potion for a time when his skill is unavailable."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
(OOC: Seems like the forwarding is working so far, although I got two copies of Karl's email. Hmmm... The point is to make it easier, but if you have to go in and delete the sender's address every time... I dunno, what do you all think?)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
(OOC: I don't mind replacing the sender's addy with game@sakeriver.com each time.)
Sa'id looks around, clearly irritated. "Might I remind you that this battle may not be over?" Shaking his head, he continues to fiddle with his crossbow.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Well, I can work either way. I have always just hit "reply all" when responding to a turn unless the action is for GM eyes only. So, for me, deleting the sender's address is an extra step. However, the one advantage of this list is that no one will be mistakenly left off of future replies when the list is used. (So, again, I can go either way.)
Karl
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Farron replies, "Give me a target, and I'm ready to fight. If one of us is going to be stabbed in the back by an invisible halfling, it might was well be while doing something useful as while staring uselessly into space hoping he pops into view."
Nevertheless, Farron does pay closer attention to his surroundings, watching for any sign that the invisible halfling is in the area.
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; picking up the pieces
The party scatters out across the battlefield, looking for clues.
Sa'id moves around nervously, crossbow clutched tightly, seeking the foe that disappeared. He seems agitated that the others are not as concerned as he is.
Rennik looks through the affects of several of the fallen halflings, and pulls open their armor. He points out to everyone the crude tattoos that decorate their forearms and chests. He and Mission both find something else of interest. Each of the halflings seems to be carrying a oiled scroll case inside his armor. Being experienced adventurers, neither cracks open the scroll case, instead they set them aside to be examined by the wizards.
Other than their weapons and armor, the halflings carry very little else. Each of them has the oiled scroll case. A few of them have coin purses, but very little money. They are as ragged and under equipped as they had first appeared.
While searching the area near the halfling bowman, Rennik finds tracks leading off to the east. They are fresh enough that they are probably the tracks of the vanished guy. It looks like he left right after the fight started, and he was moving at a run.
From: Dan
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
I suppose if we know not their ways there is little we can do for them. It's probably best for us to leave them here in the woods. Perhaps they have families that will find them and give them the care they deserve.
He kneels down to a body next to him and moves to shut its lifeless eyes. When Farron addresses him he snatches his hand away, a stunned expression on his face. He slowly turns to Farron, looking unsettled, but offers no immediate answer to his query.
A few moments pass before speaks, and when he does there is a hint of venom in his voice. "I assure you, sorcerer, that I know no more of this than you or your mageling friend behind you. A holy man does not cloud the minds of others, he opens their eyes to the glory of God. I would think that the pain and insanity these men suffered through are more your territory than mine. Perhaps *you* could offer some insights into how someone with an intimate knowledge of things arcane could cause these poor men to lose their souls. I walk in the light, my faith guides my steps more surely than a faithless man's honour ever can."
"However, if you're asking my opinion on the matter, I would say it had something to do with the Halfling we lost track of. Did Sa'id not say that he summoned a great spider? It would seem he is the one we should be asking, not I. Beyond that, we're journeying every Eastward, ever toward this black tower that dieing wretch told us of. I feel that this is its influence."
(OOC, before I start tossing around healing magic like candy, what's everyone's current/max HP right now?)
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Garyth is down 25
Rennik is down 13
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Farron says nothing but looks over the other members of the party to determine if anyone else is bothered by Cadfael's belligerent evasiveness.
From: Mike
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Garyth does not speak at Rennik's harsh words, his expression a mix of shame and pride. At Cadfael's heated response to Farron, he lowers the vial. He speaks in weary tones.
"Please, let us be at peace. None of us is an enemy, and we must work together if we are to help Overlook."
He slowly stands, drawing a breath and wincing as his armour tugs at his wounds. "It appears that for the moment we are alone," he says, pointing to the tracks, "so we have a moment to regroup. Still, we would be wise to follow our assailant."
He turns to the mages. "Farron, Sa'id. Can either of you shed any light on what these poor souls were carrying?"
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Farron takes one of the oiled cases and examines it closely. If it does not appear trapped, he will open it. If it contains a scroll, he will attempt to determine what the scroll does.
(OOC- Ty, please email what Farron finds out to karljennings@usa.net. I won't be at work this afternoon so if you send to the work address (i.e. the one I'm writing from now) I won't get it until tomorrow.)
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over
Rennik replies to Cadfael with lingering anger in his voice.
"Their souls were lost long ago, and it was not by magic. I wish it were. These halflings are of the Murrkat tribe." He spits on the nearest halfling. "We thought their vile and savage ways had gone out of the world. It seems we were wrong."
"They can rot. I will give them no burial, and Mielikki no blessing. Whatever wicked gods they follow can come claim them."
Rennik's expression grows dark and more solemn as he walks toward the first halfling killed, the archer.
"There is one, though... " he pauses to compose himself. "There is one who is not Murrkat, but Logi. Friends and brothers to my tribe. Good people. Kind. Compassionate.... Never would one of the Logi take up with the Murrkat." He makes as if to spit again, but instead kicks one of the fallen Murrkat halflings in its dead ribs.
"There is evil at work. Evil magic." He makes a face that shows his distaste of the word. "My attempt to parlay would have been honored by the Logi. He would not have fired upon me. Perhaps... perhaps these scrolls are cursed."
His expression is one of confusion, as he searches to find some reason this halfling would have ever taken up with the Murrkat, some way he could have been corrupted.
"I will take time to prepare the body of the Logi archer so that he may be at peace with Mielikki. I agree we must follow the one who escaped, but he is far ahead of us, moving at a run. His path is clear enough to follow. If he is the cause of my tribe-ally's madness, he will be found, and I will kill him."
Using the spike-like back side of his axe blade, Rennik begins to scrape the ground beside the fallen Logi halfling, making a shallow grave. He will hollow it out with his hands enough so that the halfling will rest under at least six inches of dirt, and then he will strip the halfling of his clothing and weapons. Reclaiming his arrows, he will place the body and a well-loved bow in the grave and cover it with the dirt. He says a quiet prayer to Mielikki and leaves the grave unmarked.
(OOC: this will likely take about a half hour or so, in which time Rennik will concentrate mostly on his task. He may chime into conversation while digging, but not once he starts to prepare the body. It's pretty obvious he's not going anywhere until this chore is done.)
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and lookin' at scrolls
Farron takes one of the small scroll cases, and sits down cross legged to examine it. Sa'id's curiosity draws him over to peek over Farron's shoulder as he works, though he remains standing with his crossbow ready.
Farron turns the case over in his hands, examining every side for runes or other possible nastiness. Not seeing any, he grips the cap and pops it off in one quick movement. Nothing explodes, so he feels more confident as he drops the scroll into his hands and examines it. The outside of the scroll has no markings, so he unrolls it just the tiniest bit, looking at the tops of the characters on its face. A frown crosses his face, and he unrolls it the rest of the way to read.
It looks like a rubbing. Like someone placed the parchment over an engraving of some sort and rubbed charcoal on it to copy the text. There are two large words at the top, and a long paragraph of smaller words going down the page. At the bottom is actual writing. It looks like someone has written the word 'Kielsen' in blood.
Farron looks up at Rennik and says, "Is this written in your halfling tongue?" Rennik comes over to examine it, and says, "The first two words are. I don't recognize the rest of the text. Those two big words at the top are 'Kor Garesh'. Means... ummm... like light absorber. Light taker. No, actually, more like light drinker."
Sa'id has been watching all of this, and his fingers fairly twitch to get his hands on the scroll. Finally, he tosses his crossbow aside and grabs the scroll. "Let me look at this!"
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and lookin' at scrolls
As Sa'id eyes the scroll, an undefineable expression flickers across his face. "Not 'light drinker,' 'soul drinker,'" he says, his voice thin. "Soul drinker."
Sa'id pauses to look over the rest of the scroll, and his frustration returns. "I would be willing to wager that the writing in blood is this poor halfling's name. As to the rest of it... regrettably I elected NOT to study the tongue of fiends during my time in Nesalin. We should examine the other scrolls, at least."
From: Dan
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and lookin' at scrolls
The anger drains from Cadfael's face at Garyth's words.
"My apologies, brother, I fear I was being rash. I have rarely spent any time away from the church and I'm afraid that I'm more... on edge than I would like to be. I assumed you could all feel the evil from the other man just as I assumed you could feel the... lacking in these Halflings."
"As none of you have had the benefit of the teachings I have had, allow me to elaborate. These halflings aren't dead... or they are, but dead isn't the right word for it. Have you had experience with a freshly deceased body? There is a warmth to it, more than the warmth of the blood, the warmth of the soul as it departs the body. I can't feel that in these men, they're empty. It's as if the soul was ripped from their bodies as they died, taken from them and caged somewhere. I have never seen anything like it and I find it... distressing. I have witnessed the deaths of evil men before, and this is different. It's not just unholy it's completely unnatural. I fear I cannot find the words to describe it."
Cadfael rises and walks toward Garyth. "Thank you, brother, for showing patience where I had none. Please, allow me to wash away your wounds." He reaches out and gently closes Garyth's eyes, "Pelor, I ask that you wear this man's wounds for him. Allow his fragile body to be whole once more."
A gentle warming slides down Garyth's body, growing warmer at his wounds, and heating to the point where it is uncomfortable. There is a sudden stab of heat and a pure, white light bursts forth from each wound, leaving smooth unbroken skin beneath. [Cure serious wounds 3d8+5]
Cadfael winces along with Garyth as the spell finished "I'm sorry it burns, Garyth. I'm afraid those unaccustomed to Pelor's warmth find the heat surprisingly intense. For his humble followers it is more like a warm embrace."
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and lookin' at scrolls
Cadfael heals 23 points of damage on Garyth.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and lookin' at scrolls
Sa'id nods at Cadfael's words, thinking again of the lingering warmth in his mother's hands as he held them while she died. Shaking his head to clear the memory, he moves toward the next nearest halfling (but not the one Rennik is working on) to look for another scroll.
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and lookin' at scrolls
A scroll case will be found on each of the dead halflings, including the Logi tribesman. When the name on that scroll is read, Rennik utters a sound that is almost a cry of pain. "Fayten. I never met him, but his sister is the wife of my cousin. This man was family. Someone has made me slay a kinsman."
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
If anyone needs to do further stuff at this location, please check in and let me know what it is.
If not, what we have so far is:
Rennik burying the Logi tribesman
Sa'id and Farron examining the scrolls
Mission searching the bodies carefully
Cadfael healing Garyth
Garyth getting healed
Am I missing anything? Please check in with next plan of action when you get a chance.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
That's all for me. And eventually gathering up my staff and crossbow, of course.
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Well, when all is said and done, and the Logi tribesman is buried, Rennik would turn to Sa'id and ask a question.
"You say the scroll has devil language. It also has my kinsman's name. What must I do to release him? Would destroying the scroll help ease his passage? Or would it damn him? You spoke of a soul drinker... how do I free my kinsman's soul so that his energy may again return to the cycle?"
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Farron will interject, "I have some proficiency in languages. Alas I have not prepared the spells I need to examine these further today. I suggest we take these scrolls with us for the time being and I can perhaps decipher them in the morning. We should be able to put them in a single scroll case." (OOC-That is, assuming the cases are identical and nothing happens if we put two of them together.)
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Yes, you would be able to put the scrolls into a single case if you roll them tightly.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Sa'id sighs and shakes his head. "I... I am not sure. My spell of magic detection did not show any signs of enchantment on the halflings." Nodding at Farron's suggestion, he continues. "I think Farron's course is wise. If they are somehow enchanted and the scrolls are the focus or trigger, destroying them could do more harm than good. We should wait until we know more, as much as I dislike the thought of denying your friend his afterlife."
From: Matt
Subject: Mailing list
Hoo boy... okay, if we're gonna reply all, we have to make sure we take out the other names from your "Send to" box... I just got three duplicate emails, for a total of six.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Mailing list
Quoting RynDrythorn@aol.com:
> Hoo boy... okay, if we're gonna reply all, we have to make sure we take out
> the other names from your "Send to" box... I just got three duplicate emails,
>
> for a total of six.
>
From: Raja
Subject: >_<
What the heck? I just got my own message from the mailing list only to discover that not only did it go to Rennik twice, there was also no content.
*thinks*
Ah ha!
I'm using a web-based client and my connection to the internet has been flaky over the last couple of weeks here at work because of a barrage of virii. The first time I tried to send the message it timed out and I had to go back. Of course, when you go back it gives you the page in its original state, not with text you had added to or removed from fields.
So the email I MEANT to send said "Yeah, I'm working on getting used to removing extra addresses when replying."
Ironic in light of what happened ;)
From: Scott
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Ooh, good idea.
Mission will retrieve his crossbow as well.
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Ah, yes. Rennik will reclaim his arrows before setting out. Two from his kinsman, one from a Murrkat and one that whistled into the woods toward his kinsman (I'd imagine I'd have to roll for that one)
He would take good care of the his kinsman's personal effects, hoping to return them to his cousin's wife. Also, he would promise to use the halfling's arrows to help hunt and kill those responsible for his madness.
From: Mike
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on
Garyth winces as Cadfael's spell takes effect, but smiles immediately as he feels his wounds close. "Thank you, brother," he says, working his joints a bit. He glances a bit ruefully at the rents in his armor. The next time he has a chance, he'll have to do some repair work.
(OOC: Garyth will collect the bow that he dropped before heading out.)
From: Ty
Subject: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
Is there any further conversation or decision making before you take to the road? And which road are you taking too? It is mid afternoon by this point. What time do you plan to camp?
Gimme some travel details.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
When everyone looks as though they are ready to set out, Rennik speaks.
"The trail of the lost halfling is still fresh and is easily followed. I must pursue for the sake of my kinsman. Perhaps the events at the farm, and Dame Elise's black pillar, and these wretched halflings all lead to the same ending point. We may yet even see the mad eyes of the farmers we seek as they rush to savagely attack us - much the way we saw a halfling far from home today. I do not know. I do not care.
"These Murrkat are rumored to have lived at the base of Mount Kessel. This creature will likely flee there. Kessel is west of here, and may be where Elise travels. I would have a hard time finding her trail at this point, whatever the case."
Rennik turns to address each member of the group individually.
"Friends Sa'id and Farron, if you would have your questions answered about the scrolls, we must follow that strange halfling. Brother Cadfael, if ever there was a place that needed the pure light, it is the home of the Murrkat. Friend Mission, I do not know your mind, but your skills would be valued greatly along this path."
He almost conspicously leaves out Garyth before looking him in the eye and adding, "If you wish to follow, that is your choice."
"We have a few hours of daylight left to travel. It would not be good to move too long at dusk, because the failing light makes for easy ambush. These woods are new ange to me, but not to the Murrkat it seems. We are in their territory, and I do not want to fight even more of their kind in near darkness. When the sun starts to fade, we should camp.... there are many words to be made about the events of the day."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
Garyth glances at the tracks the departing halfling left and then looks off in that direction. "Both the halfling's tracks and the road lead east. By following the halfling we are still travelling in the same direction, but we may be able to catch up to our disappearing enemy. We should follow the tracks until dusk and then look for a good place to camp; we don't know what might be lurking should we continue moving after dark."
From: Matt
Subject: Stupid AOL
(OOC: grumble, grumble... I send my email 5 full minutes before mikes, and it gets here 4 minutes after his... grumble... mike, I didn't ignore your post, I just didn't get it until several minutes after I sent mine. Hrmph.)
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
(OOC: Poop. Matt beat me to the punch. Well, the tracks lead east, even if the halflings' mountain home is to the west, so Garyth's statement will stand. Append the following, though.)
Garyth turns to Rennik, reddening slightly with suppressed anger, but his voice remains cool, if a bit stiff. "Master Halfling, our paths would seem to run together for a while, though you are and always have been free to go your own way. But don't forget who is in command of Overlook's expedition. Yes, we will need to have words before the day is out."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Stupid AOL
Hmmm, not sure what your email server is doing, but I got yours before I got my own. It looks like I received it as I was typing my first.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Stupid AOL
Even more stupid aol! Stupid, stupid, stupid! Dang it. I hate this damn server. For a while I was getting Dan's emails *four hours* after he sent them, and I had to have Ty forward me his replies. And now I'm getting things all out of order. Grumble, grumble... well, it's nice to know my own email got to you guys before it even got back to me. That's a bit wonky, if I do say so myself.
Halfling Camp, Archive Query
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
Once Garyth has made a decision as to the best course, Farron is quick to second it. He adds that the group should travel quickly but be watchful for a good place to camp before nightfall.
From: Scott
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
Mission rolls his shoulders.
"Eastward, for me. Come devil-boar, leggy dame, or maddened halfling." He grins. "I'd prefer the leggy dame, if it's all the same to you, Rennick."
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
Sa'id laughs out loud at Mission's words, the timbre of his voice full and deep. "I myself wouldn't mind *cough* examining *cough* that particular specimen. Professional interest only, of course." He shakes his head ruefully. "The mystery of the scrolls is, I think, worth unravelling. Eastward."
From: Dan
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
So long as the Halfling trail continues East, I will be on it by your side, brother. But I fear I cannot follow you west. I worry that this black pillar is truely a great evil, one that may be getting stronger with time. As you must aid your kin, my duty is to my God. He would have me learn more of this pillar, and tell the world of it should it prove too much for me to handle alone.
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: the hunt; Battle is over and moving on 2
Actually, that west thing was probably a typo. The Mountain is at the center of the island, and is east. The trails all head in the general direction of the mountain.
From: Ty
Subject: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
The party agrees to move on, trailing the vanished halfling, though there is a cloud of tension hanging over them. Rennik and Garyth move quickly at the front of the group, but do not look at each other. Occasionally Rennik takes in a sharp breath when he jars his injury (Rennik is still down 13 HP) on a bump in the path or a low hanging tree branch.
Farron and Sa'id walk with heads close together, talking in low voices and examining one of the scrolls. Farron is a Diviner, and a language specialist by training, so this is a puzzle that intrigues him.
Cadfael and Mission bring up the rear. Mission watches the mage's conversation with a blank look on his face; his reaction to what has come unreadable. Cadfael has his head down and mutters under his breath for most of the way. It appears that he may be praying.
The halfling's trail is as easy to follow at Rennik had thought. The fleeing man clearly gave no thought to covering it up, sacrificing stealth in favor of haste. By watching the tracks, Rennik sees that the halfling ran as far as he could, then walked for a couple moments, then began running again as soon as he had his breath back.
After an hour has passed, the party comes across what may have been the halflings camp. Packs and supplies are strewn about a cold fire pit. A quick examination shows the packs to be of halfling size, but there is little else. The tracks in and around the camp are all halfling.
However, once you pick up the trail again on the other side of the camp, there are now two sets of tracks, both walking. Your mysterious quarry picked up a companion here it seems...
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
Farron continues to study the scroll, leaving it to Garyth to decide our course.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
Garyth will search the fire pit and packs for anything useful.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
A search of the packs will turn up crude rations and water skins, and even one bottle of harsh halfling rotgut, but nothing else. If someone wants to pick through all the rations, you will find about 8 days worth that people would actually be willing to eat.
Under one of the bed rolls, you will also find one small wooden shield of crude workmanship.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
What Farron said. :)
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
(OOC: Okay, upgraded to AOL 9.0... maybe that'll help things... oh, and the directional thing was a complete brain fart, sorry 'bout that)
Rennik will try to find any trace of Fayten's sleeping place or any other of his personal belongings at the camp.
Following the tracks a little beyond the camp, he comes back in a hurry with a dark cast to his face.
"We have more troubles. Our halfling's companion is none other than Horan, the devil-boar I have sought for these last three years. I am certain. My fear is that there were only two sets of tracks - both halfling. Horan's companion was not with them, and could be nearby - or guarding their retreat. There is a chance they may attack our camp tonight."
Wincing a little as he turns, he moves toward Cadfael. "Brother Cadfael, my injuries are not crippling, and I would bear them. But I fear I must be at full strength if the devil-boars attack. I humbly ask your god to close my wounds so that I can defend us from this threat."
(Conditional responses)
If Cadfael heals his wounds, Rennik will thank him graciously.
If Cadfael refuses, he will understand, as there may well be greater wounds inflicted befeore dawn's light.
From: Raja
Subject: Archive
I was thinking of posting a thread to Hatrack with a link to the game archives in case any of the people who were interested but aren't playing (particularly those who had never played in a game like this before) could get an idea of how the game flows. Maybe it would inspire them to get that second game going. :)
Anyone mind if I do that?
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Archive
Actually, it might inspire them to get that THIRD game going. This game is the second one. (No offense to Ty).
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Archive
OH, sorry, I hit "send" too soon.
I don't mind if you post the link. I think it would be nice if other want to read the adventure.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Archive
:-P
In the last RPG thread there was talk of getting two games going at once, this one and a "second" one. That's why I used "second." :)
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail
(Rennik will try to find any trace of Fayten's sleeping place or any other of his personal belongings at the camp.)
Rennik will not find anything that looks like it belonged to Fayten. It appears that the bead bracelet was the only personal item that he still kept with him.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Archive
Dang it. This is getting all screwy again. I got three replies to the "Archive" email before I got the email itself! Grr.
In any event, I'd have no problem with you posting the link on hatrack.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Archive
:-p well taken. :-D
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Archive
I'm certainly cool with the idea of more people coming to my website. :p
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Archive
Ah, the man I was waiting for. Great, I'll post the thread. :)
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail (last call at the camp)
Anyone doing anything else at the camp?
Are you moving on from here, or camping? (it is late afternoon)
Is Cadfael healing Rennik?
Last call for the halfling camp!
From: Scott
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail (last call at the camp)
While on the trail, Cadfael was a mite too casual with his passage, and Mission, who followed the cleric, must have been smacked in the face with every tree branch along the trail. He pauses a moment as the others ransack the poor encampment to wipe his eyes and wince at the scratches on his face. He has gained a new appreciation for Rennick's stature.
"If these halflings were from the east, what were they doing here in the west? What has prompted them to turn back east? Does this tribe normally range so far afield?" he wonders aloud, picking through the remains of the halfling's rations. He turns his nose up at a hunk of spoiled, maggoty cheese. "Did they just happen upon us, or was an ambush truly laid?"
He scratches the back of his neck where a mosquito has bitten him. "I don't like the idea of camping where," and here he strives for the right word. "I don't like the idea of camping where the. . . Pathless have slept. But I'll admit, I don't have much experience in setting up defensive perimeters. Garyth? What do you think?"
He adds, "When I see Madame Legs, I hope that I will not have grown tusks, hooves, bristles, and a snout, in other words."
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail (last call at the camp)
"The Murrkat were a myth to me until today, friend Mission. They were a story we would use to scare children. A curse to throw at one's enemies. My people have not seen them in countless generations, but stories of their vileness have carried down through the ages."
Rennik starts to clear a spot in the campground, tossing bits of spoiled food and soiled sleepmats several feet into the trees.
"They would eat the dead, rape their children and wallow in their own shit. They would coat their arrowheads in shit and urine to cause infection. They spoke only single words, if any at all. They had no respect for family, or life, or honor."
Looking up at Mission, "But these are myths, stories. I no nothing of their range, or their true practices. I don't know what brought them from their rumored home at the base of Mt. Kessel. For what it's worth, I don't believe they were tracking us. They were too far away.
"Likely, they were moving in the same direction as Elise, along a parallel path. When we left the path to investigate, a.... glinting of metal, or clank of armor," he glances briefly at Garyth, "must have alerted them to our approach. I would guess that Fayten was a sentry for their camp, or a scout - from what my cousin told me, he was a skilled woodsman."
"They had fair warning of our approach. Fayten's arrow was focused squarely on Garyth, and his skill with a bow may have cost our companion an eye, had I not... distracted him." Rennik's eyes turn down at the thought.
Glancing around at the campsite itself, he raises his voice to gain the group's attention.
"The light is beginning to fail, making travel dangerous. It will be more and more difficult for me to spot ambushes or traps as night approaches. Though distasteful, this campsite will do well for our purposes. There is a stream not far off that offers fresh water to wash with and fill our waterskins, and the sight lines are good enough that we could see all but the most skilled attackers approaching. There is already a firepit and some wood, which would save us effort. It has been used often as a camp in the past, from the markings."
"We should work out an order for the night watch, as our missing halfling may try to return. Or Horan and his companion may attack. This position is fairly well defensible, and we should have fair warning before they are upon us."
"What say you all?"
Watch List, Discussing the Day's Mistakes
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail (last call at the camp)
Mission will take a watch.
IMO, Cadfael should take the first watch, at which time he can heal Garyth and Rennick (trading other spells for healing ones? Is that permitted?). Then he can rest/pray/whatever to get his spells back, and we'll have our two tanks healed up a bit in case there's a fight.
Mission has trained for years to be able to fight effectively in darkness (Blind-fighting feat). So it makes sense for him to be one of the watches.
Do either of you wizards have any alerting spells that can be placed on the camp?
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail (last call at the camp)
Sa'id is going to have to be awake for at least a couple of hours memorizing spells. Whether or not this coincides with his watch is up to the party.
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Day: The hunt; following a halflings trail (last call at the camp)
(OOC - what is the effect of taking a watch on a wizard? I know they have to get a full rest and take time to prepare their spells. If they take a watch, does that negate their rest? Not that Farron is trying to get out of taking a watch or anything :-P )
From: Ty
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
I need a couple things.
I need the watch order. I need spell lists (unless your list is the same as last time). I need to know if Cadfael is healing people (Rennik is down 13, Garyth is down 2).
Also, if anyone is planning to have fireside conversation, please send those turns to me. My next writeup will be once the sleeping starts, and I need to know when it is safe to do that.
Thanks, guys.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron and I are already having a fireside conversation about spells, and I'll be having a similar one with Cadfael. I'll submit my spell list soon.
As to watch order I can take watch anytime after I've memorized my spells, assuming I'll still be able to get enough sleep.
From: Scott
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
My opinion on watches:
Mission (4 hours)
Garyth (4 hours)
Rennick (4 hours)
That should give everyone plenty of time for shut-eye.
From: Mike
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sounds good to me. Garyth also has Blind-Fight.
I'm sure that Rennik will want to have a little chat with Garyth, but Garyth won't be the one to start it. What time he does have awake he'll spend doing what he can to repair his armor.
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron will speak to the group, when things settle down. "I'm no expert on battle tactics, but it's clear that we need to be more organized if we're going to keep from getting one or more of us killed. The attack took us all by surprise, so it's no wonder we were performing less proficiently than we could have. In my own case, had we been together I could have cast "Haste" on the group, giving us all added speed and dexterity in battle. As it was, at the point such a spell would be most useful, we were too far spread out for the spell to have helped more than one or two of us who were not in the heat of battle."
He pauses, looking to Garyth, then Sa'id for some support. He casts a glance in Rennik's direction, but does not let his eyes linger on the still fuming halfling. "As I said, I don't pretend to be an expert in battle tactics, but it's clear some organization is needed." Having (hopefully) broken ground for some constructive conversation, he takes a seat near the fire.
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron, of course, voices no objection to this lineup. ;-)
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sa'id listens intently to Farron's words, then speaks.
"We were spread out before we encountered the halflings, and we did not know we would be fighting. Garyth and Rennik simply had gone to investigate." He pauses. "I do not deny that when it comes to tactics we have a problem. Farron and I are not collaborating on our spell choices such that we will be better able to complement each other both in and out of battle. It helps that we have worked together once before, though the results of our collaboration at Nesalin were not deemed... positive." Sa'id grins at Farron, recalling a prank gone awry. "As far as the actual events... like Farron I am no tactician, but it seems to me that Garyth simply underestimated the enemy." He shrugs. "I do have some protective magics at my disposal, but I prefer to use my complement of more... offensive spells, as I did today, and trust brother Cadfael's own defensive magics. More effective is that, I think. One thing to be aware of is that some of my magic allows me to influence and even control the living dead. If we encounter such abominations," Sa'id says, his tone making his feelings more than clear, "and I am able to control them, do not strike down the ones that fight for us until the magic wanes. Remember that even the most distasteful of allies can be of value." As he speaks this last part, he looks pointedly at Mission and Cadfael.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
(OOC: Farron and I ARE collaborating. Oops. Sorry.)
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
(OOC: I had hoped Dan would have checked in at some point today, but alas)
"You speak truth, friend Farron. We were foolish. Alone, we provide easy targets. Together, we are a strong force. Had those halflings today been trained warriors, Garyth and I could have easily died today."
"What if the halflings had more archers? What if Garyth's attack had been met by ten swords instead of five, and I was pinned down by arrows? What if our enemy had even the smallest sense of strategy? Thankfully they did not. Yet, we did not either."
Rennik turns to Garyth but speaks so all can hear.
"Your haste was foolish. You are inexperienced in combat. You have skill and speed, and fought well, but your rashness almost cost your life. You rushed blindly against twelve enemies, sword in hand, not once thinking as a leader. Not thinking of the group."
"We have bows. We have crossbows. We have..." he hesitates to say it, "spellweavers. The reason we went ahead was to scout for ambush, not to run needlessly into one. Had we fallen back, using our bows while in retreat, I doubt any of our blood would have spilled. We would have been a group, and friend Farron could have woven this magic he speaks of."
"Had *I* fallen back, you would be dead now."
He pauses before again addressingthe group at large.
"Friend Farron speaks of organization. I speak of leadership. I came to your people seeking aid in eliminating a menace to our land. Garyth, you were the first to volunteer. This was not ordered by your people, and you are not their agent here. It was your choice to come with me. It was the choice of each of you to set out on this quest."
"We are leaderless. Each following another's lead, or trying to lead himself. A beast born with with more than one head dies quickly. Some of you look to Garyth for leadership. It is comfortable for you. There may be a time when that is the best choice, but now is not that time. You do not choose a sailor to lead the cavalry. You do not choose a horseman to captain a ship. You do not choose a scholar to train an army. You do not place a savage in charge of a library."
"Garyth may be a good leader, but this is not his land. Today's battle was his first real test in the wilderness. He made a mistake - he "underestimated" as you say. The mistake almost cost him his life. We cannot afford mistakes based on ignorance of the land. The forest is my home, and I have spent my life as a tracker and warrior of the woods. In the city, I am as lost as Garyth is in these trees. In a library, I am a child beside friend Sa'id."
"We each have our places of power. This is mine. Yet even as I speak, I see some of you looking toward Garyth to see how to respond. To see how to react. Yet, without me, you would be at the mercy of the forest."
"My original quest was to find Horan. I have found his path again, but it seems he has made powerful allies. I cannot complete my quest alone. You cannot navigate these woods alone. We need each other. More importantly, we need someone making the decisions who understands the dangers of these trees."
"What say you?"
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron approaches Garyth and says quietly, "Thanks for your skills on the battlefield today. I was impressed with how well you handled all those halflings, especially considering what a surprise their attack was. Don't worry too much about your armor. I have a spell that should take care of that damage. I just need to study it a bit. I should be able to fix you up in the morning."
(OOC - Ty, please let me know if this spell is adequate for this purpose. If not, please disregard this post. I wrote you asking this before posting, but I'm leaving for the day and may not post again before Monday. Have a great weekend everyone!!)
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sa'id speaks up again. He enunciates each word clearly, speaking very slowly and it's evident that he is choosing his with extreme care.
"There is a difference between leadership and, cumbersomely, collective deference to the decisions of an individual. Our little group does not have a clear leader because we have two separate goals that happen to coincide. Rennik must track down Horan, and Garyth must end the threat to Overlook." He pauses. "As a result, we have looked to the two of you for initial decision-making. These quests are yours, and we are tag-alongs. I will be frank. Rennik, you are admirably single-minded in your pursuit, but this can lead you to act impulsively and even rashly, just as Garyth did today in battle. Both of you should have retreated, as you say." Another pause. "And we of course defer to your judgment here in the woods and in light of our quarry. But when we met Elise's group at the farmhouse, you should have deferred to Garyth, and did not. If we are to defer to you here, you must defer to Garyth when it is appropriate." Sa'id sighs. "It seems to me, then, that we ALL have lessons to learn now and in the coming days as we travel together. Mission, it is clear to me that you more than Rennik and Cadfael disapprove of my magics and those of Farron. I will not make excuses for my study of the necromantic arts, but I thank you for restraining these misgivings as admirably as you have." Sa'id rises, and pokes the fire with the end of his staff. "If we are to have a leader, and not simply shift our deference as appropriate, I think we must wait. I do not believe that we can choose one tonight, but I also do not believe that we can 'choose' one at all given our dual objectives." He sits back down, and Aldon slides out of his shirtsleeve and slithers off into the forest to find its own dinner.
From: Mike
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
(OOC: As I'm writing this I've noticed a tendency I have for writing what's going on in Garyth's head, even though that's not readily available information to the rest of the party. Should I quit doing that, or does it count as good RP?)
Garyth flushes, hearing the harsh critique of his performance so far. This is not the first time he has received a stern dressing-down from one more experienced him. His father had despaired of ever getting Garyth to stop thinking about those ridiculous stories where the hero vanquishes hordes of screaming enemies and then dies valiantly to save his companions. Dying for Overlook would not accomplish his mission.
Of course, he says none of this, though the look of shame is readily apparent to anyone looking. When everyone has said their peace, he raises his eyes and looks at Rennik. "I have no excuses for my mistakes. My actions were hasty, and though it worked out in the end, I know I have never been closer to death. I thank you for helping me."
He turns to address everyone. "It is true, perhaps, that we have no formal leader. Each of us is here of his own volition, each desiring to help end a threat to our home, our tribe, or simply others in need. None of you is under my command. Still, I speak for Overlook."
He turns back to Rennik. "We must work together if we hope to overcome our foe. Master Rennik, I have thus far always heeded your counsel in matters of the wild. To do otherwise would be folly. Yet you, too, would be wise to remember that you need my help as surely as I need yours; indeed, each of us depends on the rest to ensure the success of this expedition, our very survival."
Finally, he replies to Farron. "Good sir, I thank you for your offer, but I would not wish you to waste any of your magic on me." He removes a small set of armorsmith's tools from his pack. "I have some skill with repair and the effort spent on the task will hopefully remind me not to be so hasty in the future."
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Rennik looks up at Sa'id, digested his words for a moment, then responds very carefully, with more tact and forethought than he has previously shown the group. His words are calm, controlled. His voice is level.
"Forgive me, friend Sa'id, but my impressions of this group have changed somewhat this day. Yesterday I arrived in Overlook to find a scared people. The outlying farmers talked of atrocities, of abductions, of death. They wished someone would do something about it. None had yet stepped forth. It had been months."
"I walked into your town, spoke with your leaders. I called for men to join me to end this threat. Garyth was the first volunteer, and the rest of you after. I should have assumed that humans volunteering meant humans taking control. That is always the way."
"We went to the farm. I was not the one to speak out of place! But from the looks in your eyes, I learned. I was not one of you. I was a Halfling. A wildling. You did not volunteer to help me, after all. You quickly forgot why you came together, and the human arrogance shone through. I became your dog. Sniffing the trail ahead. To be watched."
"From that time, our quest has been a darkening path. At first it was a disappearance. It has grown each hour since, and my heart tells me it will grow still."
Rennik turns his eyes to Garyth, without anger, without malice. His words are those of one combatant to another, though they take the tone of a veteran speaking to a green recruit who has seen his first battle. "You are impressive with a blade, and I trust you at my back. You are right in that we all need each other, certainly now that the threat has grown. I am sure you learned a painful lesson today, and your armor finally shows the marks of hard use."
"From my count, you killed three with that sword of yours. Three. Of twelve. And you were wounded badly, and losing blood. Pride is costly, and I hope it was pierced and killed by a Halfling blade. From your words, it seems to have been."
Again, he turns to the group.
"My fear is that you all place too much weight on Garyth's words and thoughts. You are new to the wilds and look to him for answers, for guidance. Of course. He is a human with an insignia. Being human, you will look to him first. But training with a blade does not mean sense in the wild." And then, with a wry smile, "you should just as soon look to me for advice on keeping polite company."
"We came out with a purpose, to eliminate a threat. I believe we still hold that purpose. All tracks from the farm led east, as did Elise, the halflings, and Horan and his companion. Mt. Kessel is in the east, along with stories of the Murrkat tribe of vile savages. There is some "soul drinker" that has a hand in this, using evil magic and threatening more than just Overlook. All peoples of the island are at risk, if both farmers and Logi halflings have been abducted."
"Friend Sa'id, I am not so single-minded that I can't put aside my quest when there is greater need for my skills. I have followed Horan off and on for three years, and I will find him. Maybe not tomorrow, maybe not next year, but I will. The safety of my home, and your homes, is under threat from this new menace that can take the soul and kindness from a man's eyes. This threat must be stopped, or my quest means nothing. The black pillar does not yet fit in this puzzle, but my heart says we will find it at the base of Mt. Kessel."
Rennik looks tired, almost as if he has used too many words. He furrows his brow and rubs the bridge of his nose.
"The watch order sounds fine to me. We will leave tomorrow after Brother Cadfael has said his prayers."
From: Matt
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
An addendum:
Rennik said it was going on for "months" when he meant "weeks"... sorry bout that.
Also, Mike, I think the internal monologue stuff is cool... cuz it gives us more of an impression of facial expressions, voice tone and body language. Words aren't the only way the characters communicate - I'm all for it. :)
From: Scott
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
In the glow of the firepit, dancing shadows, Mission's boyish face seems to shift from a half-smiling youth, to an intense, battle trained warrior.
As the others speak their turn, he idly pokes at the fire pit, and catches an ember on the end of his staff. He flips it into the air and bounces it skillfully on his staff-- only when Sa'id speaks does he let the ember fall, and then he quickly pushes it back into the firepit.
He then smiles weakly at Sa'id. But a flicker passes behind his eyes-- and he remembers what it was like, bearing the weight of the mage's touch. He shudders, and says nothing to the mage.
Instead, he stands. "My watch has begun, so I'll be brief. I am devoted to each of you. We walk the Path together. Rennick is wise, and as he says, we are in his lands now. But there is more here at stake than his lands. Garyth's people are at risk. People come before vengeance."
He grins. "And there is a leggy dame." Mission spins the staff quickly in a wide circle, bounces it off the sole of one foot so it catapults, still spinning, up into the air. He catches it a moment before it smashes into the top of Cadfael's head. And he holds it there, straight and still, arm outstretched, one leg lifted directly behind him, paralell to the ground, like a dancer frozen in time.
He winks at the cleric. "I will watch out for all of you. Always."
And straightening himself, he takes up his watch.
Mission will prowl around the camp as silently as possible, keeping his ears open for any disturbances.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sa'id looks vaguely hurt at Rennik's words, but he restrains himself until Mission has finished.
"I, too, am foreign to this land, stalwart ranger. If the colour of my skin does not betray me, my accent surely does. Moreover, my chosen field of study is looked on with fear in many circles. I empathize with you more than you think, and I do not mean to belittle you with my words. Perhaps it is in fact my words that were improperly chosen, for neither this nor your own language are native to me, and I have had to learn both from nothing over the last several years. 'Leader,' 'sheikh' or 'sultan' in my own tongue, carries with it the assumption of unquestioned, unwavering loyalty from the followers. Thus my thought that it is premature to call anyone here 'leader.' But I agreed -- and still do -- that we must always defer to the judgment of whoever is in his element. Now it's you. I do trust your judgment in this, more so after today. That will not change." Sa'id crouches down by Rennik for a moment, and bows his head slightly. "I offer my humblest apologies. I am honoured to name you saaheb." ('Friend.')
Sa'id rises, and turns back to the fire. "Now, I must re-acquaint myself with my spellbook." He grins, then nestles his staff in the crook of his arm and begins to study.
(OOC: I also like the mental stuff, it's good to get more insight into your characters. Should we share histories too, or let that come out in the RP? I've written a couple thousand words' worth of stuff about Sa'id, and there's more to come ;)
Ty's Thoughts On Good RP
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
I like when in comes out in RP. Much more realistic that way.
And internal monologue is fine to me. As long as people make note of what was said, and what was thought. It sometimes happens that players will respond to things that a character only thought. But that is a minor risk to take in exchange for nifty character RP.
Farron's Inner Monologue
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron listens to these various exchanges with mixed feelings, but tries not to reveal what he is thinking outwardly. At Rennik's words, he pointedly stares at the fire. He feels sorry for Garyth, knowing that in Overlook he has had little chance to use his skills in the heat of a real battle, but knows that it is clear that despite this lack, he has practiced them well. He is angered that the halfling savage feels the need to repeatedly dress him down publicly. But at the second mention of the group's dependence on him as "great hunter and tracker", Farron grumbles, "Not all of us are ignorant of the ways of nature."
When Mission speaks his piece, Farron listens quietly. He respects the monk's skill in fighting. Never before has he seen someone take out a giant spider single-handedly, and with a single flurry of blows. However, it is clear that the monk has little (if indeed any) respect for those who have chosen to study and learn to control the awesome powers of magical forces. This is odd because it seems clear that he, himself, gains some measure of power by tapping into these forces. The way his tattoos glow at times surely must indicate some magical forces at work. It's too bad that he sees their (his and Sa'id's) chosen profession as less than noble. Still, he is skilled and it might be useful to try and win friendship from this remarkable fighter.
But beyond his grumbling at Rennik's attitude, Farron does not add more to the debate, but eventually pulls out his own spellbook and begins studying. Tomorrow looks to be full of hiking and if things play out the way they seem to be heading, not a little fighting.
Bedtime and the Morning
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Cadfael stares deeply into the fire, lost in its flickering dance. The flames seem to wash over his face and sooth away some of its strain. He seems aware of what is being said around the fire but, as seems to be the norm for him, has nothing to say himself. He breaks out of his reverie as Mission's staff comes spinning down toward his head and smiles broadly at the monk. That smile fades a little as the somber attitude around the fire settles in on him.
"Know that I trust your knowledge of the woods, brother Rennik. I know enough of the wilds to know that I ring out like church bells in the morning with every step I take, although there is little I can do about it. As I have said before, we are all family under the eyes of Pelor, and I consider you as much my brother as I do Garyth, or Farron. Although I confess I don't have the same fondness for Farron's rodent," he says with a grin, "it seems to me that I can best follow you by staying hundreds of yards behind you. But, in doing so I cannot be by your side when you need my aid, as we discovered at the battle today. Given the choice, I would be closer to your side so that I may prevent your wounds rather than attending to them afterwards."
Saying that he gestures toward the fire and the light it gives off seems to grow dimmer and his hand brighter for it. He the presses his hand against Rennik's brow, feeling the heat of the flames flash suddenly from his hand into Rennik's body, searing his wounds closed with its warmth. (Cure Moderate Wounds).
"Sa'id? I worry for you brother. To attempt to control the undead is not something any man of a good heart would seek to do, and only the blackest hearts would be successful at it. I worry for you brother, I do. I know you are a good man, but I am afraid that you walk a path of temptation that shall lead you to your doom. For now, I pray that this is only a passing fancy of yours, and like children turn away from sweets as they age I pray that you turn away from this power you seek. That is all I would say on this for now, but know that I'll call no undead an ally, their place is with their God, not locked on this plane. I would send them home."
"Brother Farron, a brief word with you before you retire. Would you be willing to let me look at one of the scrolls the Halflings carried? It is more than likely that I'll glean from it less than you already have, but perhaps I'll be able to identify some religious symbol that you would not understand."
(OOC -- I'll send you my updated spell list once I've finished my morning prayers, Ty. Just in case something comes at us during the night all I'm still going to have what's left of the last list I gave you.)
From: Karl
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron, not having a reason to refuse, offers one of the scrolls to Cadfael for his study.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sa'id is studiously poring over his spellbook when Cadfael addresses him. He looks up at the priest's words.
"Brother Cadfael, believe me, a similar view we share of the dead who yet walk this earth. I have spent much time dealing with the dead; preserving and preparing bodies for last rites, or performing autopsies to determine the cause of death. Defiling the peace of death with magic is something I find abhorrent, and I admire the strength of your convictions. I, too, would release any undead we encounter into final death." He pauses. "As a result of my study of death and the dead, however, I do possess the magics I have described. Not to raise the dead -- " Sa'id makes a warding sign, "but to influence the undead, perhaps even turn them against each other or their masters before finally allowing them to rest. This compromise I am prepared to make."
He then returns to the study of his spellbook. After having memorized his spells, he will stretch out and try to sleep, using his turban for a pillow.
From: Raja
Subject: RE: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sa'id was going to go to bed after completing his study, he rises and begins to pace, muttering to himself. He paces for a solid half hour before finally returning to his makeshift bed.
(OOC: His brain just won't stop working on this. Consequently, neither will mine. ;)
(OOC: I have a growing suspicion that this "black pillar" is somehow drawing evil creatures to it. That's the only thing I can think of that ties Elise and Horan together, along with the halflings and the scrolls.)
From: Ty
Subject: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Is there any other fireside convo to do? There is absolutely no rush, and such conversations are often the best part of RPG's, so continue as long as you like.
But I don't want to delay you guys if you are done, so when you are done just send out an "I go to sleep" message. When everyone (except the watchman) is asleep, I will write up the next turn.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Cadfael takes off his armour and goes to sleep.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Rennik removes his studded leather and spends some time washing the blood and bile from it, and from his body. When this task his finished, he lets the armor dry by the fire for some time while he cleans and sharpens his axe. After some time, when the fire has dried his armor somewhat, he puts it back on and curls up with his back to the firepit, facing out into the trees. In his hands in front of him rests the haft of his axe, and his bow rests above his head, three arrows stuck point first and the quiver propped against his pack.
With a short prayer to Mielikki for a quiet night, he closes his eyes and sleeps.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Mission's prowling around still.
That will be all.
:)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
After memorizing spells and pacing, Sa'id will indeed sleep.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Garyth looks as though he might speak, but thinks better of it. Rennik seems to have misinterpreted his mistakes as some form of racism, but is it worth risking the halfling's ire by arguing with him? Hopefully Rennik will change his mind on his own.
Garyth wipes down his armor as best he can then catches what sleep he can before his watch.
(OOC: Garyth will attempt to repair his armor as well as he can during his watch.)
From: Karl
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Farron goes to sleep.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Mission's watch passes uneventfully. If it were not for this trips dark purpose, it would almost be a pleasant place to camp. The only sounds are the night insects, and the babbling of the nearby stream. After a few hours the days exertions catch up to him, and Mission is forced to kneel in an uncomfortable position to remain alert. It is a great relief when his excellent internal clock (the monastery's bells rang every four hours without fail) tells him his time is up. He nudges the sleeping Garyth with one foot and says, "Your watch begins." As Garyth struggles awake, Mission curls up in his blankets and is asleep in seconds.
Garyth rubs the sleep from his eyes, and begins mending his armor. It is difficult to do in the dark, and he does not want to ruin his night vision by lighting a fire. He does the best he can, and is at least able to seal up any holes, though how it looks in daylight won't be known till the morning. After he is finished, he realizes that he has no idea how long he worked on the armor, or how much of his watch is left. He sits staring into the dark for a couple more hours, then shrugs and wakes the Halfling.
Rennik rolls awake instantly, and after a few words about how surprisingly quiet it's been, Garyth goes to sleep. Rennik looks at the night sky and sees that the boy took an extra hour on his watch. It is only 2 hours from dawn. After having 9 hours of sleep or so, Rennik is full of energy again. He prowls the perimeter of the camp with bow in hand, but nothing appears to be amiss, and he finally settles for gathering berries for breakfast.
At exactly 15 minutes before dawn, Cadfael wakes up, and puts on his armor. He says nothing to Rennik, but instead clutches a large holy book while kneeling and facing the east. As the first rays of dawn peek over the horizon, Cadfael begins praying in a deep and songlike voice. It is actually quite peaceful, and Rennik can feel some of the leftover darkness from yesterday lifted away. When the priest stops singing an hour later, Rennik smiles and nods at him.
At about this time, the rest of the group begins to wake up. Everyone seems pleasantly surprised that the demon hordes did not strike in the night. The wizards settle in with their books and begin memorizing, while Rennik cooks breakfast. It is a very peaceful and almost domestic scene, considering the previous days butchery.
After breakfast Rennik moves to the edge of the camp, looking to reacquire the trail.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Unusually cheerful, Rennik greets the others in the party with a bit of brightness behind his eyes. The morning air is crisp in his lungs, and he even chidingly thanks Garyth for the extra sleep, though there's no malice in the jibe. Gathering together his pack and things, he covers the fire and their tracks within the camp in case someone were to follow them, and even tromps off heavily several times in a direction entirely different from the one the group will be traveling in, making an obvious trail that ends thirty or forty feet out.
He's humming a tune under his breath as he walks off to find the start of the trail again, while the rest of the group collects their things. When he returns, the brightness in his step is gone, and his eyes look tired, as though he'd had no sleep at all.
Slinging on his pack and weapons, Rennik walks to the edge of the camp where they are to set off and sits heavily against a tree, his axe held loosely in front of him. He absentmindedly gnaws at the well-chewed leather straps that bind the handle and stares blankly out into the woods, grimly waiting for the rest of the party to make themselves ready to move.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: First Night: The hunt; It's been a hell of a long day
Sa'id pores intently over his spellbook. Periodically, he sits up straight, closes his eyes, and murmurs indistinguishable words to himself. Aldon, his viper familiar, indulges in some of Sa'id's breakfast leftovers before coiling around Sa'id's quarterstaff. Sa'id ignores the bustling of the rest of the party, intent on his study.
When Sa'id is satisfied that his spells are ready, he carefully stores his spellbook away, rises, and slings his pack over his back. Adjusting his turban, then his boots, he readies himself for another day of walking.