Wednesday, March 31, 2010
The Fall
As Nym pressed the rag to one of his many bleeding, open wounds, Darvin noticed that everything was starting to spin. He looked over at his friend Talathel and saw that he was a nice oblong shape. The goblin woman was looking uglier than usual and it was getting darker. And right after that, Darvin lost all consciousness and slumped to the ground.
Post Worm
The worm spasmed from the blast and raised its head.
"I remember the chambers of my youth, long hours spent cuddled with my parents and my brothers and sisters. I traveled for much of my youth digging and tunneling through the world. I found many beautiful things and killed many who threatened me. Alas, I was often filled with vanity and greed. But I was not alone in this and as I look at your spirits floating in the air I can see that we are not so different." It gasped for air. "As I lay dying I fear that I found little meaning in my life, but I suspect that others will find even less, but as I leave you I must ask - did killing me help you to find any for yourselves?" With that it collapsed and hit the ground split neatly into two. From inside the carcass you see what appears to be four very large gems.
"I remember the chambers of my youth, long hours spent cuddled with my parents and my brothers and sisters. I traveled for much of my youth digging and tunneling through the world. I found many beautiful things and killed many who threatened me. Alas, I was often filled with vanity and greed. But I was not alone in this and as I look at your spirits floating in the air I can see that we are not so different." It gasped for air. "As I lay dying I fear that I found little meaning in my life, but I suspect that others will find even less, but as I leave you I must ask - did killing me help you to find any for yourselves?" With that it collapsed and hit the ground split neatly into two. From inside the carcass you see what appears to be four very large gems.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Purple Worm
All of a sudden a large whole in the ground opened up. As you turn you see a large purplish worm burst out.
"Greetings fools." It said in a slimy tone. "I was looking for some breakfast... I think you shall do nicely."
Please roll initiative.
"Greetings fools." It said in a slimy tone. "I was looking for some breakfast... I think you shall do nicely."
Please roll initiative.
Monday, March 29, 2010
New DM post. Heck yeah!
The crew rejoiced when their Captain, Admiral, Lookout, and Surgeon returned from their quest. They peppered them with questions and once satisfied allowed them to rest and have private time. While the adventurers recuperated below the crew, directed by Lailsan, set forth to fashion a great feast.
Several hours later the entire crew sat down in the conference room and delved into the food with great vigor. There was also a great barrel of fine wine. Its purchase no one would lay claim to, though oddly Beranhond said nothing about its presence.
Lailsan sat squarely in Talathel's lap and made him reveal every detail of the trip, particularly about the tavern they had visited on their last night in Silverymoon. Talathel managed to pacify her and she spent most of the evening cuddling up with him.
Nym and Darvin found seats opposite one another and although occasionally they would glance at each other nothing too emotional passed between them. These glances were quite innocent, but alas, the feelings that they caused Darvin were not. Nym, kept striking up a conversation with Greg about the resurrection ceremony and the return of their new friends. She also made repeated references to Thay and the evil wizards there as well as her general dislike of Druids. Greg smiled and happily agreed with all Nym had to say. In the corner, Beranhond seemed generally distracted and took his leave halfway through.
After several hours of merrymaking most of the wine had been consumed by Greg, Darvin, and Talathel. Though a smattering of the crew decided to have one glass. When Talathel left the conference room, his hands wrapped about Lailsan, he swore he saw Beranhond talking to a glowing bluish figure.
"Jerk!" Lailsan smacked him, grabbed his wrist, and dragged him belowdecks.
Darvin kept drinking to work up the courage to talk with Nym. However, after several cups of the strong wine he decided that he would practice his speech on the table.
Several hours later the entire crew sat down in the conference room and delved into the food with great vigor. There was also a great barrel of fine wine. Its purchase no one would lay claim to, though oddly Beranhond said nothing about its presence.
Lailsan sat squarely in Talathel's lap and made him reveal every detail of the trip, particularly about the tavern they had visited on their last night in Silverymoon. Talathel managed to pacify her and she spent most of the evening cuddling up with him.
Nym and Darvin found seats opposite one another and although occasionally they would glance at each other nothing too emotional passed between them. These glances were quite innocent, but alas, the feelings that they caused Darvin were not. Nym, kept striking up a conversation with Greg about the resurrection ceremony and the return of their new friends. She also made repeated references to Thay and the evil wizards there as well as her general dislike of Druids. Greg smiled and happily agreed with all Nym had to say. In the corner, Beranhond seemed generally distracted and took his leave halfway through.
After several hours of merrymaking most of the wine had been consumed by Greg, Darvin, and Talathel. Though a smattering of the crew decided to have one glass. When Talathel left the conference room, his hands wrapped about Lailsan, he swore he saw Beranhond talking to a glowing bluish figure.
"Whoo iz that?"
"I think that is Narath."
"Oh..." Talathel said impressed. "She is beautiful.""Jerk!" Lailsan smacked him, grabbed his wrist, and dragged him belowdecks.
Darvin kept drinking to work up the courage to talk with Nym. However, after several cups of the strong wine he decided that he would practice his speech on the table.
"Captain... when are we setting out?"
"First thing in the morning." He responded sleepily.
Three hours later the entire crew was dragged sleepily from bed. Talathel looked suprisingly giddy as he climbed the tower, and Darvin looked awful. As the crew climbed about setting riggings Darvin yawned and looked about for Nym. He spotted her in the front of the ship playing with her little fox. When she giggled a part of Darvin that had been previously asleep woke up.
Nym hadn't slept well the night before due her afternoon nap and as a result was quite sleep, but when the bell clanked she decided it was her duty to go up and assist with the rigging. The crew had been practicing in their absence and seemed quite proficient so she worked on training the little fox pup.
Up in the crow's nest Talathel pulled out his flask and took a huge gulp before looking out to help guide the ship out of the harbor.
After an hour they were out to see and headed south. No one had really decided where they were heading, but Darvin had it in mind to head south.
Beranhond felt quite refreshed and thus sent Darvin to bed. Up in the crowsnest Talathel took another gulp of the flask and sat down to meditate. Nym and her fox pup yawned and climbed on down the ladders to her room and promptly fell asleep. The fox pup curled up in her arms and fell asleep as well.
Time passed. There was a tearing sound in the air. Their eyes flicked open and Darvin, Nym, and Talathel, as well as the new monkey and the fox pup, looked out and saw themselves washed upon a beach. Around them were scattered large beams and timbers as well as bits of sail and buckets of tar. However, there was no sign of any of the rest of the crew, nor was there any sign of Beranhond. Also, there didn't seem to much remaining of the ship in general. They had seemingly been washed ashore. As they looked around the beach appeared to go on to the horizon to the north and south. However, fifty yards from the beach they spotted a path leading away from the beach toward grass covered dunes.
Stones and Shit
The morning after the resurrection, Nym woke early, anxious to see how her friends were taking their recently renewed life. She quickly got dressed, and rode Nesme to the school, arriving at about 7:15 AM, with Pipper in tow. When she arrived at the rooms of her friends, she looked into the first door she came to, Avarn's room, but found that he was still asleep. She turned to go check the next room, but stopped when she saw Headmistress Tainaste walking down the hallway toward her. "I thought I might find you here," the Headmistress said.
Nym responded with a sheepish grin. "I was excited to actually get to talk to them. Yesterday they were pretty quiet. I hoped they would be doing better by now."
Headmistress Tainaste nodded, "I understand, Nym. This is a very difficult time for them, and especially for their relationship with you. You'll have to be patient with them. They've been through a lot, and it's rather jarring to die a painful death, and then wake up in security. It's a good change, of course, but in many ways, the Nym they knew died back there with them. You have grown, my child, and they have not. It is sometimes the way things happen. It will likely be weeks before they are fully themselves again, the way you remember them. Some may be ready to come out of their shells earlier, but it is never a certain thing."
At hearing the prediction of it being weeks before she could talk to her friends, Nym began to panic a bit. "Weeks!? That's a long time. I'm not sure my companions will wait that long. We have things we need to do! There's the ship! And the tsunami! And Beranhond said there were druids involved somehow! And then, we have..."
As Nym started going off, the Headmistress held up a hand to stop her. "There are many ways for you to keep in contact with them from afar. In fact, I have given two of your companions, Darvin and Talathel, whisper stones. I currently have three that are paired, but I can have more made. How about this: You ask Darvin and Talathel to give you their whisper stones. Keep one for yourself, and give the other to Wayrn. I will use the one I have as a key to make more, and then give one to each person staying here. How does that sound?"
Nym was heartsick at what her former Headmistress was proposing. "But I won't be able to see them, or hold their hands. I won't really be helping them at all. They'll grow up without me. You're telling me I should just leave my friends behind?"
Nym, going numb from the hurt of realizing what she was hearing, heard herself say, "How do you use the whisper stones?"
The Headmistress explained, "They glow when activated, and hum slightly, so if you hear the hum, you know that someone wishes to speak, and by simply holding it in your hand, you can have a conversation with anyone back here. If you would like to activate it yourself, simply put a drop of blood or saliva on the stone, hold it in your hand, and envision talking. Your stone should begin glowing. Do you understand?"
Nym nodded. "Yes, Headmistress. I understand."
Headmistress Tainaste, seeing Nym's distress, chose to leave her alone with her thoughts. "It has been good see you again, Nym. You are always welcome here at the school. Will you be leaving Silverymoon soon?"
Nym's mind was in a fog. "Yes. We will be leaving soon."
Stepping forward and wrapping Nym in a hug, the Headmistress said, "Fare well, Nym. I hope that what you learned here may help you in your travels."
Nym barely heard her. She reactively hugged her, clinging for several seconds longer than was necessary, and when Headmistress Tainaste released the hug and left, she stood and stared off into space. She was unaware of how long she stood there before woodenly going and peeking in the rest of the rooms, seeing they were all still asleep. Making a decision, she made up her mind to leave a note with Wayrn, and let him deliver it to them when he thought they were ready. She whispered a halting goodbye to her friends, and left the school, heading for the tavern where Beranhond, Kailina and Janusa were staying. There, she found all of her new companions, and told them she was ready to go. She went through the motions of asking Darvin and Talathel for their Whisper Stones, which they gladly gave her. The group agreed to grab their things and meet at the gate out of the city by 11, and they separated.
Nym found Ollin, and asked him to pack up for her, explaining she had another goodbye to say before she was ready to leave, and telling him about meeting at the gate at 11. Seeing her depressed state, Ollin got to work without another word, and Nym traveled to see Wayrn.
As she talked to Wayrn, she thought about what Headmistress Tainaste had said, and realized that there was a distance and an uncertainty in all of Wayrn's actions now. He didn't quite know how to treat her. Greatly saddened at discovering the truth in what she'd been told, she kept the conversation short, and she somehow found Ollin and met the others at the gate, too shocked to care what went on around her.
The next several days passed the same way. The group stayed with Ollin, where he made them breakfast before they left the next morning, he gave Nym a big hug, wishing her the best on her travels and telling her to return safely. They were able to make it back to Waterdeep without any unusual trouble, arriving at around 3 PM after a couple days of travel.
Nym led Nesme to her pen, and went into her cabin as soon as they arrived at the ship, closing the door behind herself.
The rest of the group took care of the ship, checking with those they had left to make sure nothing untoward had happened. Talathel asked after Lailsan before anyone else had time to get a question in edgewise, and found out she wasn't onboard, but was expected back later in the day. As Beranhond and Darvin talked to the head of the current watch, Talathel began to crawl up to the crow's nest, to check on his favorite perch. Darvin found out from the sailor that Gurkirat had left shortly after Darvin and the rest of the group, and that he had said something about being tired of adventuring. He told the crew not to expect him back.
As Talathel climbed to about 10 feet from the crow's nest, a furry head peeked over the edge of the crow's nest. Shortly after, the upper half of a monkey popped up, and the monkey threw a piece of poop right at Talathel.
Nym responded with a sheepish grin. "I was excited to actually get to talk to them. Yesterday they were pretty quiet. I hoped they would be doing better by now."
Headmistress Tainaste nodded, "I understand, Nym. This is a very difficult time for them, and especially for their relationship with you. You'll have to be patient with them. They've been through a lot, and it's rather jarring to die a painful death, and then wake up in security. It's a good change, of course, but in many ways, the Nym they knew died back there with them. You have grown, my child, and they have not. It is sometimes the way things happen. It will likely be weeks before they are fully themselves again, the way you remember them. Some may be ready to come out of their shells earlier, but it is never a certain thing."
At hearing the prediction of it being weeks before she could talk to her friends, Nym began to panic a bit. "Weeks!? That's a long time. I'm not sure my companions will wait that long. We have things we need to do! There's the ship! And the tsunami! And Beranhond said there were druids involved somehow! And then, we have..."
As Nym started going off, the Headmistress held up a hand to stop her. "There are many ways for you to keep in contact with them from afar. In fact, I have given two of your companions, Darvin and Talathel, whisper stones. I currently have three that are paired, but I can have more made. How about this: You ask Darvin and Talathel to give you their whisper stones. Keep one for yourself, and give the other to Wayrn. I will use the one I have as a key to make more, and then give one to each person staying here. How does that sound?"
Nym was heartsick at what her former Headmistress was proposing. "But I won't be able to see them, or hold their hands. I won't really be helping them at all. They'll grow up without me. You're telling me I should just leave my friends behind?"
"Nym, they're not ready for your friendship again, yet. And though it hurts to hear this, they may never be. This way, you can talk to them, and maybe you can rebuild that friendship, but they see you as someone else. In their eyes, you are Nym's older sister now. Things can't just suddenly be the same as they were. I'm sorry. It doesn't work that way. I'm giving you a way of keeping in contact, and maybe rebuilding that friendship, but if they choose not to reforge your relationship, you must let it go. It is not healthy living in the past, and the friends that you see are in the past still."
Nym, going numb from the hurt of realizing what she was hearing, heard herself say, "How do you use the whisper stones?"
The Headmistress explained, "They glow when activated, and hum slightly, so if you hear the hum, you know that someone wishes to speak, and by simply holding it in your hand, you can have a conversation with anyone back here. If you would like to activate it yourself, simply put a drop of blood or saliva on the stone, hold it in your hand, and envision talking. Your stone should begin glowing. Do you understand?"
Nym nodded. "Yes, Headmistress. I understand."
Headmistress Tainaste, seeing Nym's distress, chose to leave her alone with her thoughts. "It has been good see you again, Nym. You are always welcome here at the school. Will you be leaving Silverymoon soon?"
Nym's mind was in a fog. "Yes. We will be leaving soon."
Stepping forward and wrapping Nym in a hug, the Headmistress said, "Fare well, Nym. I hope that what you learned here may help you in your travels."
Nym barely heard her. She reactively hugged her, clinging for several seconds longer than was necessary, and when Headmistress Tainaste released the hug and left, she stood and stared off into space. She was unaware of how long she stood there before woodenly going and peeking in the rest of the rooms, seeing they were all still asleep. Making a decision, she made up her mind to leave a note with Wayrn, and let him deliver it to them when he thought they were ready. She whispered a halting goodbye to her friends, and left the school, heading for the tavern where Beranhond, Kailina and Janusa were staying. There, she found all of her new companions, and told them she was ready to go. She went through the motions of asking Darvin and Talathel for their Whisper Stones, which they gladly gave her. The group agreed to grab their things and meet at the gate out of the city by 11, and they separated.
Nym found Ollin, and asked him to pack up for her, explaining she had another goodbye to say before she was ready to leave, and telling him about meeting at the gate at 11. Seeing her depressed state, Ollin got to work without another word, and Nym traveled to see Wayrn.
As she talked to Wayrn, she thought about what Headmistress Tainaste had said, and realized that there was a distance and an uncertainty in all of Wayrn's actions now. He didn't quite know how to treat her. Greatly saddened at discovering the truth in what she'd been told, she kept the conversation short, and she somehow found Ollin and met the others at the gate, too shocked to care what went on around her.
The next several days passed the same way. The group stayed with Ollin, where he made them breakfast before they left the next morning, he gave Nym a big hug, wishing her the best on her travels and telling her to return safely. They were able to make it back to Waterdeep without any unusual trouble, arriving at around 3 PM after a couple days of travel.
Nym led Nesme to her pen, and went into her cabin as soon as they arrived at the ship, closing the door behind herself.
The rest of the group took care of the ship, checking with those they had left to make sure nothing untoward had happened. Talathel asked after Lailsan before anyone else had time to get a question in edgewise, and found out she wasn't onboard, but was expected back later in the day. As Beranhond and Darvin talked to the head of the current watch, Talathel began to crawl up to the crow's nest, to check on his favorite perch. Darvin found out from the sailor that Gurkirat had left shortly after Darvin and the rest of the group, and that he had said something about being tired of adventuring. He told the crew not to expect him back.
As Talathel climbed to about 10 feet from the crow's nest, a furry head peeked over the edge of the crow's nest. Shortly after, the upper half of a monkey popped up, and the monkey threw a piece of poop right at Talathel.
Talathel: Could I have a climb check to see how well you are able to dodge the thrown feces?
Monday, March 22, 2010
Waiting on the world to change.
When Talathel and Thjodolf arrived without Darvin in tow he was not too surprised.
"He took the events rather harshly..." Talathel said.
"Yes, it is true. Hmmm." Beranhond thought for a moment. "Well, I am not sure we can do anything, it really is between them. "As for us. The night is young! What sort of adventure shall we have?" He asked Talathel, Thjodolf, Kailina and Janusa.
"He took the events rather harshly..." Talathel said.
"Yes, it is true. Hmmm." Beranhond thought for a moment. "Well, I am not sure we can do anything, it really is between them. "As for us. The night is young! What sort of adventure shall we have?" He asked Talathel, Thjodolf, Kailina and Janusa.
Staring at the Ceiling...
After a few hours of staring up at the ceiling thinking about how dumb he must have looked and how inappropriate he was, Darvin finally got up. The sun had gone down, and Darvin was pretty sure that his companions had left to go find something to do, which was fine with him because he was in no mood for people. He walked downstairs and left the inn. He had no plan as to where he was going, but he knew that staying in his room wasn't productive and if nothing else he could get some fresh air.
No matter how hard he tried, Darvin couldn't get Nym out of his head. He wanted to see her, to talk to her, to explain that even though he was an idiot, he still meant everything that he said. He had no idea how he was going to say any of this but he still wanted the chance. He walked along until he came to the wharf on the river. He stared at the moonlight reflecting on the water and realized how much he missed the ship. It was time to go back. Darvin sat on the pier thinking about the woman he loved and the ship he left.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Ex Viscus Ut Vitam
"Thank you for coming to this ceremony, and helping us to welcome back four of ours who we thought were lost to us." Her voice was magically amplified, and could be clearly heard, though she was not speaking much above a whisper, and with this very simple message, she nodded slightly to Nym and Wayrn in turn at the foot of the stage, then turned to the assembled healers behind her. Nym and Wayrn stepped slowly up the steps to the stage, and stood one on either side of Headmistress Tainaste.
"Healers of Mielikki, may the early autumn these four young ones experienced make way for renewed spring in their lives, and may this renewal nurture them and help them to grow in your bounty." Her voice was still amplified, and though she was not facing them, the entire crowd heard every word she said very plainly.
The priestess to the audience's left raised her left hand. "When I was young, I wanted to be older."
The teacher across from her raised his left hand. "When I was ignorant, I wanted all knowledge."
Nym, taking her part, walked to the left side of the table. "When I was lonely, I wanted companions."
And Wayrn, walking to the right side of the table, spoke his part. "When I was dead, I wanted life."
The priestess continued. "The cycle of life continues, though it was interrupted for a time for this one. May the cycle continue, and may the Forest Queen watch us all through the autumns of our lives."
Once she had finished speaking, she bowed her head to the table. The wizard cast an illusory spell over the table that gave it a glowing halo, obscuring the sight of the items on the table. The priestess spoke three long sentences in draconic, and her hands performed an intricate dance that represented the passage of time through life. As she spoke, the form on the figure, bathed in light though it was, began to take form, and the small offerings on the table grew, like a vine growing up a trellis, the dirt and twigs grew into human shape, though instead of leaves, hair grew, and instead of vines, bones and muscle grew. Shortly after she had finished speaking, the wizard adjusted his illusion to become a glowing brown robe that covered the unclothed body of a 13 year old girl. Nym recognized her as Morna.
As soon as the robe began forming, the girl sat up, looking around startled. She saw Nym, which confused her even more, as she looked like the Nym she remembered, but older, and more mature, and she wasn't sure what to think, but then she saw Wayrn, and started crying and hugging him immediately. Wayrn calmed her down, and assured her everything was going to be alright, and the ceremony continued.
At each of the tables, the same words were spoken, though Nym and Wayrn were the only two involved in all four of the rituals. Moran was next, and took his return calmly, though his poise was obviously a bit forced. Avarn was third, and came to herself screaming and frantic. It took Nym, Wayrn, and Headmistress Tainaste all to stop her screaming, and as soon as she stopped screaming, she began sobbing loudly and uncontrollably. The priest and wizard accompanying her bed accompanied her away so she would not be too embarrassed by her reaction. Finally, Rahm was resurrected, and he simply laid back, not sure what reaction to take. He finally looked at Nym. "Nym, is that you? How long has it been?"
With the four all raised from the dead, Headmistress Tainaste turned once again to the assembly gathered. "We are happy to have all four of our lost students returned to us. Please, show them your encouragement and support."
The crowd began clapping their open right hands against their chests, creating a gentle thunder sound, as if a rainstorm was on the horizon, and the rains of life would be coming shortly to nourish the plants and animals that so depended on them.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Bad Timing and Awkward Moments
Nym was surprised. Well, that's an understatement. Nym was astonished, bewildered, confused, and a number of other worlds she couldn't clearly pull together in her mind. Why was Darvin here? Oh, he was just answering that... Now I've missed it. But what IS he doing? The ceremony's about to start... What's he saying? Did he just say he loved me?! Darvin was looked at Nym for a moment, and then kissed her.
Wayrn looked more than a little confused as to why the
beginning of the ceremony was being interrupted and Ollin stood from his seat, unsure if his daughter needed protecting. Nym pushed Darvin back, surprised and confused. Nym took a step back. "Wha... what are you doing? Why...?" Nym looked more than a little confused. She liked Darvin very much, but she'd had little time to think of love while traveling back to Silverymoon with her friends' remains. Not only that, but directly before a resurrection ceremony was certainly not the time for love professions. "This is a holy time; a holy place. Four people are about to be resurrected here, this is no time for... this!" Nym was angry, but when she saw how hurt Darvin looked, she regretted her behavior. She impatiently wiped her tears away, and gently took Darvin's hand. She said gently, "Please sit. My quest... all I've worked for for five years, is about to be completed." She smiled and left to take her place in the ceremony as it began.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMp2t3OP-Ug
Wayrn looked more than a little confused as to why the
beginning of the ceremony was being interrupted and Ollin stood from his seat, unsure if his daughter needed protecting. Nym pushed Darvin back, surprised and confused. Nym took a step back. "Wha... what are you doing? Why...?" Nym looked more than a little confused. She liked Darvin very much, but she'd had little time to think of love while traveling back to Silverymoon with her friends' remains. Not only that, but directly before a resurrection ceremony was certainly not the time for love professions. "This is a holy time; a holy place. Four people are about to be resurrected here, this is no time for... this!" Nym was angry, but when she saw how hurt Darvin looked, she regretted her behavior. She impatiently wiped her tears away, and gently took Darvin's hand. She said gently, "Please sit. My quest... all I've worked for for five years, is about to be completed." She smiled and left to take her place in the ceremony as it began.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMp2t3OP-Ug
Wait, did he just...?
"So, Thjodolf, you said you did well at the gambling halls?" Talathel said, making conversation with the half-orc. Talathel was more than a little disappointed that he didn't get to hear more about Thjodolf's cousin being turned into an emu and he figured that with a little downtime, he could maybe pry some details from him. He hardly noticed Darvin get up and approach the stage.
"Very good. And no headache...haha."
"As an experienced rum drinker, I have no..." Talathel rubbed his temples. "Damn this sun, making me a liar." More laughter from Thjodolf.
"Ah, while you had your luck with the dice, I had mine with people. Yours is a gift of luck and I am finding that when it comes to rum, mine is a gift of persuasion. And, as adventurers, one musn't turn down a free drink."
There was no answer from Thjodolf. He seemed to be transfixed on the stage. Talathel looked. The sun was bright, even for the morning, so at first the elf didn't believe what he saw.
"Do you think confessing his love in front of a whole crowd at a resurrection ceremony is maybe a little melodramatic?" he heard Beranhond ask.
"Perhaps a bit, but somehow this timing seems to fit well with Darvin."
Thjodolf grunted his bemusement and agreement with Talathel's assesment.
Ubi Darvinus Et Amor, inconcinnum est.
Beranhond had quite enjoyed the ride up from the druids camp, he even enjoyed his odd encounter with the black smith. Kailina and Janusa had been very entertaining traveling companions, and in general the day seemed to be going well. As Darvin stood and called out Nym's name Beranhond's stomach seemed to sink a bit.
"Um... Darvin could I... no? Ok..." Beranhond called, but Darvin obviously hadn't heard him.
Darvin started a monologue that would most likely be retold for generations in strange love stories you don't want to hear. Not that it wasn't sweet, just that these things are better meant for the minstrel shows.
"What is he doing?" Tigrisclawu asked.
Beranhond turned to Talathel.
"Do you think that confessing his love in front of a whole crowd at a resurrection ceremony is maybe a little melodramatic?"
"Um... Darvin could I... no? Ok..." Beranhond called, but Darvin obviously hadn't heard him.
Darvin started a monologue that would most likely be retold for generations in strange love stories you don't want to hear. Not that it wasn't sweet, just that these things are better meant for the minstrel shows.
"What is he doing?" Tigrisclawu asked.
Beranhond turned to Talathel.
"Do you think that confessing his love in front of a whole crowd at a resurrection ceremony is maybe a little melodramatic?"
Darvin & Nym
Darvin had ridden many miles to be where he was right now. He had not planned the journey particularly well, his companions were humoring him by coming along and everyone knew why they had made the journey. Well, everyone but Nym. It seemed like a month had passed since Darvin last saw her, she looked older, more mature, like the responsibility she had carried had eroded away the young girl and replaced her with a young woman. Darvin had left the ship and the crew for this moment and he wasn't going to let it pass him by.
"Nym," Darvin said as he stood up. She turned around and looked at him, she had been pre-occupied with being reunited with Wayrn to have even realized that her friends were in attendance. Darvin could see the emotion on her face. There were streaks where some tears had flown.
"Before you ask what I...we...are doing here," He gestured to the group behind him as he slowly made his way towards her, "I need to tell you something. I came all this way because of you. When you left the ship I panicked. I didn't know what to do and called an emergency meeting onboard, I felt like I had to come after you. I thought I was being irrational and ridiculous but I still came. For the first time in my life I care more about someone other than myself. I ache when you are gone. I long to dance with you again. And most importantly I...I...I am in love with you."
By this time Darvin was standing directly in front of her. The tears had welled up in her eyes again and as he said this they burst forth and again streaked her cheeks. Darvin reached out and pulled Nym close to him and he kissed her. He kissed her in a way that he had never kissed anyone before. He meant it. He meant every nanosecond of it. Time seemed to slow down. The room full of people disappeared. At this moment in time Darvin and Nym were the only two people on the planet.
Vive la Résurrection!
As Beranhond left Yartar the morning of the 28th, he began to look forward to seeing his friends again. Riding hard, he hoped to make it to Silverymoon by the evening of the 30th, and so he rode quite hard, making 40 miles per day.
In Silverymoon, May 30th, 2:15 PM:
At the Stagstand: Darvin and Talathel saw that their stones began glowing. Talathel's glowed bright pink, and Darvin's was a deep blue glow. Upon holding it in their hands, they became aware of the Headmistress's voice, and she told them that Nym was in the city, and told them about the resurrection ceremony the next day. Darvin asked about Nym's current whereabouts, but the Headmistress didn't know where Nym was staying and was therefore honestly unable to give them any more information. Darvin thanked the woman for her information, and expressed his intent to attend the ceremony the following day. When the stones stopped glowing, Thjodolf stood up and told both Darvin and Talathel that he was going gambling. It had been a long time since he last played a game of chance, and he figured with the luck he was having, he should do pretty well. Darvin was too excited to concentrate, so turned him down, and Talathel was already well into his drinks and decided he would stay where he was until nightfall.
Silverymoon, May 30th, 6:20 PM:
Beranhond arrived in town before the sun set and in plenty of time to find lodging at Solar's Smiling Satyr, a tavern close to the school. In the area around the school, there was a lot of talk about Nym and the resurrection ceremony the next morning, and Beranhond quickly found out when and where he would need to be in order to find his companions.
Silverymoon, May 31st, 6:30 AM:
At the Wayward House: As soon as Nym woke up, she began tingling with anticipation and trepidation. How would her friends react to seeing her so much older than they remembered? How would they take the resurrection? Would the ceremony be too public? How was it all going to happen? She got up and paced nervously, Piper peering at her curiously before snuggling down and going back to sleep for a bit longer.
Silverymoon, May 31st, 7:00 AM:
At Solar's Smiling Satyr: Beranhond awoke and went through the ritual of his morning devotions, preparing himself for the day. He smiled when Tigrisclawu stretched and asked him, "When do we get to see the woman who calls me meowface?"
Silverymoon, May 31st, 7:30 AM:
At the Stagstand: Darvin woke Talathel and Thjodolf up. Thjodolf reported he had done very well at dice the night before, earning 25 gp. Talathel reported he'd done very well at drinking the night before, convincing three different strangers to buy him rum. Darvin listened somewhat patiently to his two companions as he twiddled with his sword hilts and tried not to think about what he was going to do today. Eventually, he lost his patience, and simply told his two friends, "I can't stand this any longer. I'm going. Be at the school by 8:30 to see the ceremony." Thjodolf and Talathel agreed, and continued talking as they headed down to the common room for a bite of breakfast.
Silverymoon, May 31st, 8:00 AM:
At the school: Nym was the first to arrive at the school, and headed straight for the Headmistress's office. After talking to her about what the ceremony was going to be like, she found out that Wayrn had been successfully resurrected the day before, and that both he and she would have a place in the ceremony. Nym asked to see Wayrn, but was told that he was still recovering a bit and it would be best for his recovery for him to be alone a bit longer. The ceremony would be enough of a strain as it was. Nym acquiesced, and was led to a staff woman of the Lady's College who instructed her in the proper procedure for the ceremony and how exactly she was to participate. The woman assured Nym that everything would be fine, and she shouldn't worry.
Silverymoon, May 31st, 8:05 AM:
At the school: When Darvin arrived at the small amphitheatre where the ceremony was to be held, there were still students and staff setting up for the event. He was the first one there, and looked around anxiously for Nym. Not wanting terribly badly to run into Mashy, he kept away from most of those setting up, and walked around a bit more until the setup was done and others began showing up.
Silverymoon, May 31st, 8:10 AM:
At the school: Beranhond was the next of the group to arrive. He found his way to the seats and was surprised to find Darvin pacing outside the seating area. He went up to Darvin and said, "Hello. I thought I might find you here." And as Darvin spun around to meet the voice, his face was a mixture of surprise and joy. The two found seats at the edge of the amphitheatre, so that Talathel and Thjodolf could easily find them and join them, and they saved a seat for Nym too, if they should happen to find her in time to offer her a seat.
Silverymoon, May 31st, 8:20 AM:
At the school: Talathel and Thjodolf arrived at the amphitheatre, having eaten a quick breakfast. They found Darvin and Beranhond, and as they headed to their seats, Darvin spotted Nym walking up to the stage area. She walked onto the stage, opposite a male human in his late teens, (Wayrn) they both bowed to each other, emotion contorting both of their features slightly, as each tried to smile bravely at the other, then turned and walked away from each other, down the stairs at either side of the stage, stopping at the bottom of the steps. Nym was standing facing the amphitheatre, though her eyes weren't really focused on the people in front of her. Instead, she was looking at the man across from her. Nym stood straight down the aisle from where Darvin, Beranhond, Talathel, and Thjodolf were sitting.
The ceremony will begin at 8:30 AM.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Awkward is our Trademark
Darvin: "It's a rather long story actually. A lot has happened since then, a lot has changed..."
Mashy: "Want to go somewhere and talk about it?" Mashy said, leaning back far enough to give Darvin a wink.
Darvin: "Mashy, I don't think that would be a good idea. It would probably defeat the whole purpose of me coming here."
Mashy: "What do you mean? Didn't you come here looking for me?" Mashy asked. She looked thoroughly perplexed.
Talathel: "Haha," Talathel chuckled, not quite just to himself.
"Not really."
Darvin: "Um, as a matter of fact, we had no idea you were here. A pleasant coincidence though." Darvin looked at Talathel for assisstance
Mashy: Mashy turned and glared at Talathel. "Oh. Aren't you the boring elf that came along to help 'rescue' me? Why don't you just piss off?"
Talathel "I came to do nothing of the sort. Unless you can use your magic to conjure up some rum, I have little concern about what you do."
Mashy: "Then why are you here? I saw you and thought you had come for me. I can do some very bits of magic, if you know what I mean..." Mashy said, tickling Darvin under the chin.
Sent at 9:49 PM on Sunday
Talathel: "We came here to find our friend Nym. She used to go to school here."
Mashy: Mashy simply ignored Talathel's remark, focusing on Darvin.
"The dead girl from the statue? How is she a friend of yours?" Mashy asked.
Darvin: "I don't think I'm the best candidate for that anymore, Mashy"
Darvin: "It's part of the long story. But basically we found her in a closet in a sewer and she's been with us ever since. Well, until she ran off to Silverymoon and we came looking for her."
Mashy: "You found her in a sewer? And what kind of friend is she?" Mashy was starting to look a bit hurt and suspicious, now.
Darvin: "Um...she's a good friend, but one that shouldn't run off without protection."
Darvin was realizing this wasn't going to end well
Mashy: Mashy climbed off of Darvin to stand in front of him with her hands on her hips. "I'm a bit disappointed in you, Darvin."
Talathel: "Isn't everyone these days..." Talathel said under his breath
Mashy: She continued standing there, staring at him, daring him with her eyes to say something that would prove he wasn't as much of an asshole as she thought he was at that moment.
Darvin: "I...er, I don't know what to say? A lot has changed since I left Secomber, for the first time in my life I realized that there are some things out there that are bigger than me, and I followed one of them here..."
Mashy: "What are you saying? What does that mean?"
Darvin:
"It means it's not just about me anymore."
Talathel: "So you're with this dead Nym girl?"
Darvin: "Well, she's not dead. She's very much alive."
Mashy: "You're avoiding the question." Mashadara said.
Darvin: "I don't think I avoided it at all. You asked if she was dead, she is not. And no I am not with her."
Darvin: "Also, have you met our friend Thjodolf?"
Talathel: "Not even I completely buy that. If you're telling me you pulled me away from Lailsan for a three day ride and you don't have any feelings for Nym..."
Thjodolf: "Leave me out this!" Thjodolf said. "You in enough trouble for both us."
Darvin: "Oh Talathel, bugger off! I was answering the question truthfully. We aren't together, feelings aside."
Mashy: "Thank you, Talathel." Mashy said. "Darvin, at least you could be man enough to tell me the truth."
Darvin: "I did tell you the truth! You asked if we were together, we are not. Do I have feelings for her? Yes. Does she for me? Well, that remains to be seen."
Mashy: "I see."
"Well then. I suppose that's that." She said, turning and walking off in a bit of a huff.
Darvin: "I'm sorry Mashy. I wish you luck." Darvin called after her
Talathel: "Well, that was delightfully awkward. Lets go fill some flasks."
Darvin: "No thanks to you!" Darvin shot back
Talathel: Talathel rolls his eyes
"because it was going so smoothly with your half truths and vague answers"
he turns toward the school gate and begins to leave the courtyard
Darvin: "I never lied once in that whole ordeal."
Talathel: "you may not have lied, but you were not honest either. I've seen the way you look at Nym, the way you two danced, your reaction to when she left.
those looks, those feelings, that is the reason why we're here, so don't try to water it down in an attempt to save face"
Darvin: "She's a wizard and I was trying to be careful. It does us no good if she turns me into a newt!"
Talathel: "So instead of telling her the complete truth, you decided to be vague and confuse the young girl"
Thjodolf: "I had a cousin who was turned into an emu once." Thjodolf added.
Talathel: "an interesting tale, Thjodolf. How about you tell it over some ales?"
Thjodolf: When both Darvin and Talathel turned to look at him, he added, "He got better."
Darvin: "See, Thjodolf's cousin was turned into an Emu. What good am I as an emu?"
Thjodolf: "We done yet?" Thjodolf added. "The pub not sound bad."
Darvin: "Well, lets go get some food and ale then and wait for this rock to talk to us."
The Ring: The ring said, "What a bunch of ninnies ye are. Waitin' for a talkin' rock. Eh. Suppose it's as daft as talkin' to a ring, now?"
Friday, March 12, 2010
Dreams
Nym fell into a deep sleep almost as soon as she lay down. She began to dream.
Pipper had grown to the size of a bear, and Nym rode him through a forest. They came to a wide river, and on the other side she could see Wayrn, Avarn, Morna, Moran, and Rahm. They were all the ages they should have been had they lived. She shouted to them and waved, but they didn't seem to hear her. Pipper looked at her and said, "They cannah hear you, Nym." "Why not, Pip?" she asked the fox. "You're too fah away," he said, matter-of-factly. Nym hopped down from Pipper's back and stared across the water. "Maybe there's a crossing further South... or North..." she said. Pipper cocked his bear-sized head to the side, "You know the sea's to the South an' the river is wideh to the North, Nym." Nym frowned, "Then how will I cross to them?" Pipper shook and said, "You cannah cross." Nym stood silently watching them. "But THEY can cross." Pipper just looked at Nym. Nym smiled, and climbed back onto Pipper's back. "Let's go. They will cross when it is time." Pipper ran back into the forest with Nym riding him.
Pipper had grown to the size of a bear, and Nym rode him through a forest. They came to a wide river, and on the other side she could see Wayrn, Avarn, Morna, Moran, and Rahm. They were all the ages they should have been had they lived. She shouted to them and waved, but they didn't seem to hear her. Pipper looked at her and said, "They cannah hear you, Nym." "Why not, Pip?" she asked the fox. "You're too fah away," he said, matter-of-factly. Nym hopped down from Pipper's back and stared across the water. "Maybe there's a crossing further South... or North..." she said. Pipper cocked his bear-sized head to the side, "You know the sea's to the South an' the river is wideh to the North, Nym." Nym frowned, "Then how will I cross to them?" Pipper shook and said, "You cannah cross." Nym stood silently watching them. "But THEY can cross." Pipper just looked at Nym. Nym smiled, and climbed back onto Pipper's back. "Let's go. They will cross when it is time." Pipper ran back into the forest with Nym riding him.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Happy birthday to our fire-breathing, manual reading DM
In honor of him, here is a poorly done photoshop of an elf coming out of a cake.
As you can see, it was poorly done. Happy birthday, Dan.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Overland Movement
Characters covering long distances cross-country use overland movement. Overland movement is measured in miles per hour or miles per day. A day represents 8 hours of actual travel time. For rowed watercraft, a day represents 10 hours of rowing. For a sailing ship, it represents 24 hours.
Walk: A character can walk 8 hours in a day of travel without a problem. Walking for longer than that can wear him out (see Forced March, below).
Hustle: A character can hustle for 1 hour without a problem. Hustling for a second hour in between sleep cycles deals 1 point of nonlethal damage, and each additional hour deals twice the damage taken during the previous hour of hustling. A character who takes any nonlethal damage from hustling becomes fatigued.
A fatigued character can't run or charge and takes a penalty of –2 to Strength and Dexterity. Eliminating the nonlethal damage also eliminates the fatigue.
Run: A character can't run for an extended period of time. Attempts to run and rest in cycles effectively work out to a hustle.
Terrain: The terrain through which a character travels affects the distance he can cover in an hour or a day (see Table: Terrain and Overland Movement). A highway is a straight, major, paved road. A road is typically a dirt track. A trail is like a road, except that it allows only single-file travel and does not benefit a party traveling with vehicles. Trackless terrain is a wild area with no paths.
Forced March: In a day of normal walking, a character walks for 8 hours. The rest of the daylight time is spent making and breaking camp, resting, and eating.
A character can walk for more than 8 hours in a day by making a forced march. For each hour of marching beyond 8 hours, a Constitution check (DC 10, +2 per extra hour) is required. If the check fails, the character takes 1d6 points of nonlethal damage. A character who takes any nonlethal damage from a forced march becomes fatigued. Eliminating the nonlethal damage also eliminates the fatigue. It's possible for a character to march into unconsciousness by pushing himself too hard.
Mounted Movement: A mount bearing a rider can move at a hustle. The damage it takes when doing so, however, is lethal damage, not nonlethal damage. The creature can also be ridden in a forced march, but its Constitution checks automatically fail, and the damage it takes is lethal damage. Mounts also become fatigued when they take any damage from hustling or forced marches.
See Table: Mounts and Vehicles for mounted speeds and speeds for vehicles pulled by draft animals.
Walk: A character can walk 8 hours in a day of travel without a problem. Walking for longer than that can wear him out (see Forced March, below).
Hustle: A character can hustle for 1 hour without a problem. Hustling for a second hour in between sleep cycles deals 1 point of nonlethal damage, and each additional hour deals twice the damage taken during the previous hour of hustling. A character who takes any nonlethal damage from hustling becomes fatigued.
A fatigued character can't run or charge and takes a penalty of –2 to Strength and Dexterity. Eliminating the nonlethal damage also eliminates the fatigue.
Run: A character can't run for an extended period of time. Attempts to run and rest in cycles effectively work out to a hustle.
Terrain: The terrain through which a character travels affects the distance he can cover in an hour or a day (see Table: Terrain and Overland Movement). A highway is a straight, major, paved road. A road is typically a dirt track. A trail is like a road, except that it allows only single-file travel and does not benefit a party traveling with vehicles. Trackless terrain is a wild area with no paths.
Forced March: In a day of normal walking, a character walks for 8 hours. The rest of the daylight time is spent making and breaking camp, resting, and eating.
A character can walk for more than 8 hours in a day by making a forced march. For each hour of marching beyond 8 hours, a Constitution check (DC 10, +2 per extra hour) is required. If the check fails, the character takes 1d6 points of nonlethal damage. A character who takes any nonlethal damage from a forced march becomes fatigued. Eliminating the nonlethal damage also eliminates the fatigue. It's possible for a character to march into unconsciousness by pushing himself too hard.
Mounted Movement: A mount bearing a rider can move at a hustle. The damage it takes when doing so, however, is lethal damage, not nonlethal damage. The creature can also be ridden in a forced march, but its Constitution checks automatically fail, and the damage it takes is lethal damage. Mounts also become fatigued when they take any damage from hustling or forced marches.
See Table: Mounts and Vehicles for mounted speeds and speeds for vehicles pulled by draft animals.
Table: Mounts and Vehicles
| Mount/Vehicle | Per Hour | Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Light horse | 6 miles | 48 miles |
| Light horse (175–525 lbs.)1 | 4 miles | 32 miles |
| Heavy horse | 5 miles | 40 miles |
| Heavy horse (229–690 lbs.)1 | 3-1/2 miles | 28 miles |
| Pony | 4 miles | 32 miles |
| Pony (151–450 lbs.)1 | 3 miles | 24 miles |
| Dog, riding | 4 miles | 32 miles |
| Dog, riding (101–300 lbs.)1 | 3 miles | 24 miles |
| Cart or wagon | 2 miles | 16 miles |
| 1 Quadrupeds, such as horses, can carry heavier loads than characters can. See Carrying Capacity for more information. | ||
The Headmistress
"Thank you for your support, Lady." said Nym, standing. She gently pulled out the box containing her companion's remains and produced Wayrn's finger. After five years, it was basically mummified. She carefully handed it over to Wayrn's mother, took the letter of support, and left for the Lady's College. On her way out, she asked Fardel to send word to her about how Wayrn's resurrection went at the Wayward House.
It was mid-afternoon now, and Nym made her way to the Lady's College. Upon entering the grounds, she noticed a large statue that was clearly of her and her travel companions from when they'd left the college six years prior. Nym led Nesme to the college stables and then entered the building through a servant's door she'd used many times in her youth. She made her way though the familiar hallways until she arrived at the headmistress's office. She knocked on the office door and then waited. After a few moments, it opened, and the secretary peeked out. "Do you have an appointment?" asked the annoyed-looking halfling woman as she looked Nym up and down.
"No madam, but I'm here on urgent business with the support of the Ravenhelm family. I need to speak with the Headmistress as soon as possible." said Nym coolly.
"The Ravenhelms? Oh my!" said the halfling. Her attitude had changed considerably when the noble family was mentioned. "One moment." the halfling went back inside the office area. Nym looked around the waiting area. Finally the door opened again, and the halfling said, "The Headmistress will see you now."
Nym followed the halfling through the door and back to the Headmistress's office. Sitting just outside the office, in a small sitting room meant to hold those waiting on the Headmistress, was another halfling. She was about 17, and gave Nym a mischievious wink as she strode past straight to the doors to the Headmistress' chambers.
The Headmistress did not look up immediately when Nym entered as she was finishing a letter. When she did look up, her jaw dropped slightly. "...Nym? Is that you?" Her surprise was clear. Nym laughed and said, "It's good to see you really don't forget a student, Headmistress." The woman smiled at Nym. Nym continued, pulling out the letter of support from the Ravenhelms, "Although I am alive and well, I'm afraid that cannot be said for all of us who foolishly left Silverymoon on a dangerous adventure. I need your help."
Diplomacy
(1d20)+4+3
18+4+3 (NICE!)
25
It was mid-afternoon now, and Nym made her way to the Lady's College. Upon entering the grounds, she noticed a large statue that was clearly of her and her travel companions from when they'd left the college six years prior. Nym led Nesme to the college stables and then entered the building through a servant's door she'd used many times in her youth. She made her way though the familiar hallways until she arrived at the headmistress's office. She knocked on the office door and then waited. After a few moments, it opened, and the secretary peeked out. "Do you have an appointment?" asked the annoyed-looking halfling woman as she looked Nym up and down.
"No madam, but I'm here on urgent business with the support of the Ravenhelm family. I need to speak with the Headmistress as soon as possible." said Nym coolly.
"The Ravenhelms? Oh my!" said the halfling. Her attitude had changed considerably when the noble family was mentioned. "One moment." the halfling went back inside the office area. Nym looked around the waiting area. Finally the door opened again, and the halfling said, "The Headmistress will see you now."
Nym followed the halfling through the door and back to the Headmistress's office. Sitting just outside the office, in a small sitting room meant to hold those waiting on the Headmistress, was another halfling. She was about 17, and gave Nym a mischievious wink as she strode past straight to the doors to the Headmistress' chambers.
The Headmistress did not look up immediately when Nym entered as she was finishing a letter. When she did look up, her jaw dropped slightly. "...Nym? Is that you?" Her surprise was clear. Nym laughed and said, "It's good to see you really don't forget a student, Headmistress." The woman smiled at Nym. Nym continued, pulling out the letter of support from the Ravenhelms, "Although I am alive and well, I'm afraid that cannot be said for all of us who foolishly left Silverymoon on a dangerous adventure. I need your help."
Diplomacy
(1d20)+4+3
18+4+3 (NICE!)
25
Heading northward to find his wayward companions.
May 27th
2-7pm
From where I am to Red Larch: 10 (2)
From Red Larch to Triboar: 9 miles (2)
From Triboar to Yartar: 12 miles (2+)
Total: 31
Riding northward Beranhond, Kailina, and Janusa soon found the road leading to Red Larch. They road steadily, stopping only briefly to water the horses. After a few hours they circled the walled city of Red Larch and continued Northward. The lands were filled with odd animals, and at times the strange badlands duck flew down to quack at them. But, other than that it was fairly calm. After another couple hours they passed through Triboar, waved at the inhabitants, and continued on the road. Finally, they arrived at Yartar for the night and found a small but comfortable inn to sleep in.
2-7pm
From where I am to Red Larch: 10 (2)
From Red Larch to Triboar: 9 miles (2)
From Triboar to Yartar: 12 miles (2+)
Total: 31
Riding northward Beranhond, Kailina, and Janusa soon found the road leading to Red Larch. They road steadily, stopping only briefly to water the horses. After a few hours they circled the walled city of Red Larch and continued Northward. The lands were filled with odd animals, and at times the strange badlands duck flew down to quack at them. But, other than that it was fairly calm. After another couple hours they passed through Triboar, waved at the inhabitants, and continued on the road. Finally, they arrived at Yartar for the night and found a small but comfortable inn to sleep in.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
The Ravenhelms
After Ollin left for the market, Nym saddled Nesme and led her out of the stables. Pipper barked, wanting to come along too, but Nym had locked him in a pen with Vort, who was happily sleeping in a sun ray.
Perhaps I should see Wayrn's family first....
Although not particularly good at magic, Wayrn was well-loved by his family, the Ravenhelms. She made her way into the wealthiest part of Silverymoon and Wayrn's old home. As she approached their manor, she noted that it looked ever the same and always impressive when compared to neighboring homes.
She tied Nesme to the fence and knocked on the door. After a few moments, Fardel, the Ravenhelm's gnome servant, opened the door. He frowned at this girl who would dare bother him, and studied her for a moment. Suddenly he realized who she was. "By Nebelun's grace! Nym? Nym, is that you? You're supposed to be dead! Is Master Wayrn with you?"
"In a manner of speaking..." Nym replied. "It is good to see you, Fardel. Is the Mistress of the house in?" Fardel nodded and led Nym into the foyer. While Fardel went of to fetch Wayrn's mother, Nym looked at the large family paintings hung in the hall. She stopped in front of a stern painting of Wayrn and smiled. He'd never looked so serious in life, really, and she was amused by the pompous poise he'd taken for the painting. I shall have to tease him about this when he's brought back. she thought.
After a few minutes, Fardel returned with Wayrn's mother following. She was a tall, slight woman with plain features but a regal face. Nym bowed slightly and said bluntly, " Wayrn and the others are dead, Mistress. I have returned to Silverymoon to have them resurrected, but I need your help convincing the college to raise them."
Perhaps I should see Wayrn's family first....
Although not particularly good at magic, Wayrn was well-loved by his family, the Ravenhelms. She made her way into the wealthiest part of Silverymoon and Wayrn's old home. As she approached their manor, she noted that it looked ever the same and always impressive when compared to neighboring homes.
She tied Nesme to the fence and knocked on the door. After a few moments, Fardel, the Ravenhelm's gnome servant, opened the door. He frowned at this girl who would dare bother him, and studied her for a moment. Suddenly he realized who she was. "By Nebelun's grace! Nym? Nym, is that you? You're supposed to be dead! Is Master Wayrn with you?"
"In a manner of speaking..." Nym replied. "It is good to see you, Fardel. Is the Mistress of the house in?" Fardel nodded and led Nym into the foyer. While Fardel went of to fetch Wayrn's mother, Nym looked at the large family paintings hung in the hall. She stopped in front of a stern painting of Wayrn and smiled. He'd never looked so serious in life, really, and she was amused by the pompous poise he'd taken for the painting. I shall have to tease him about this when he's brought back. she thought.
After a few minutes, Fardel returned with Wayrn's mother following. She was a tall, slight woman with plain features but a regal face. Nym bowed slightly and said bluntly, " Wayrn and the others are dead, Mistress. I have returned to Silverymoon to have them resurrected, but I need your help convincing the college to raise them."
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Any dream will do.
I don't really have any overwhelming questions to ask of right now... so feel free to skip ahead to the ritual/challenge, whatever it might be.Beranhond followed them into the camp, talking idly with them, but he was more interested in a place to sit and relax. The previous days had been a little tiring. The quick horse back ride, the killings, the forced march, poor sleep and the mornings questioning had stressed and tired him. Thus, when his escorts pointed out a solitary tree that would be provide some shade he quickly accepted and while his escort sat down around him Beranhond dosed off to take a short nap.
As he drifted into slumber he swore he could hear the call of the horns of Torm. Opening his eyes his saw that he was back in his room at the Citadel of Torm. Outside the crystal blue water of the sea of fallen stars glinted in the afternoon sunlight and the streets below were filled with troops beyond count.
"This cannot be!" Beranhond said jumping up and opening the door. Suddenly he was down amongst the crowd. He could not make out any of the people around them - their faces held no features or identities.
"What happened?" He asked one of the shapes
"The spring of Torm no longer flows! Those dark enemies who would end his civilizing ways must now be punished!" The voice seemed familiar and he reached over to touch the shape's shoulder.
Suddenly he was back in the sewer of Balder's Gate and Ceilith stood in front of him.
"I have to kill you Eth. You just don't understand."
"Understand what?"
"It." She thrust her sword into his chest. "I do still love you though."
"Well... this seems an odd time to tell me that." Beranhond said as he fell to the ground and clutched his chest. As he pulled his hands away he saw that they were not red, but instead sticky and yellow.
"Interesting. Why would I be bleeding honey?" He said feeling weaker and lightheaded. He started to topple backwards, but at the last moment he felt Narath's hands catch him and throw him upward. He burst out of the sewers and floated above the badlands. He no longer felt lightheaded or dizzy and Narath flew beside him.
"Narath? What is going on."
"Oh, you are just having an odd dream. Very odd. Do analyze it if you have time."
"Ok." He looked around, but as he looked at the ground he noticed it was getting closer.
"Hmmm. I suspected that I couldn't fly." As his face slammed into the ground everything turned to black.
He sat upright in the grass which caused Tigrisclawu to jump as well. Shaking his head he turned to his escort.
"Is it time?"
As he drifted into slumber he swore he could hear the call of the horns of Torm. Opening his eyes his saw that he was back in his room at the Citadel of Torm. Outside the crystal blue water of the sea of fallen stars glinted in the afternoon sunlight and the streets below were filled with troops beyond count.
"This cannot be!" Beranhond said jumping up and opening the door. Suddenly he was down amongst the crowd. He could not make out any of the people around them - their faces held no features or identities.
"What happened?" He asked one of the shapes
"The spring of Torm no longer flows! Those dark enemies who would end his civilizing ways must now be punished!" The voice seemed familiar and he reached over to touch the shape's shoulder.
Suddenly he was back in the sewer of Balder's Gate and Ceilith stood in front of him.
"I have to kill you Eth. You just don't understand."
"Understand what?"
"It." She thrust her sword into his chest. "I do still love you though."
"Well... this seems an odd time to tell me that." Beranhond said as he fell to the ground and clutched his chest. As he pulled his hands away he saw that they were not red, but instead sticky and yellow.
"Interesting. Why would I be bleeding honey?" He said feeling weaker and lightheaded. He started to topple backwards, but at the last moment he felt Narath's hands catch him and throw him upward. He burst out of the sewers and floated above the badlands. He no longer felt lightheaded or dizzy and Narath flew beside him.
"Narath? What is going on."
"Oh, you are just having an odd dream. Very odd. Do analyze it if you have time."
"Ok." He looked around, but as he looked at the ground he noticed it was getting closer.
"Hmmm. I suspected that I couldn't fly." As his face slammed into the ground everything turned to black.
He sat upright in the grass which caused Tigrisclawu to jump as well. Shaking his head he turned to his escort.
"Is it time?"
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
To Silverymoon!
Pipper was awake when Ollin first stirred before the sun had began to rise. The little fox watched Ollin walk from the room, but continued to lay on Nym's belly as she slept. The old apothecary soon came down the stairs and went into the kitchen to make breakfast for himself and his guests. Pipper's ears perked up and he sniffed the air when he heard sizzling and smelled food cooking, but he continued to lay on Nym. After a time, Pipper heard Ollin whist
le, which meant he and Vort were to be fed. Pipper hopped down from Nym's belly and yipped at her to wake her. When she didn't stir, he sniffed her ear and face. Nym groaned, but did not awake. Pipper snorted and lay across Nym's face, which caused Nym to burst into laughter."ALRIGHT. I'm UP!" she said to the fox pup, sitting up. Pipper yipped and ran out the door to be fed. Nym chuckled and went to help Rovanth with the cooking. Since all his own children had moved away, Rovanth was more than happy to listen to Nym chatter while she helped him cook.
After a quick breakfast, Ollin and Nym helped Rovanth tidy up his shop and then open for the day at 7am. By this time, the sun was rising. Nym, Ollin, Vort, Pipper, and their horses, Nesme and Ella, continued their journey to Silverymoon.
Off to school we go
Talathel found himself awake during the pre-dawn hours. Since he meditated, he required much less sleep than his traveling companions. He went out to the stables and checked on the horses. He figured they would have the day off more or less.
He hoped that Nym was in the city, or at least not far from it. He was somewhat eager to get back to the ship, for very much the same reasons why Darvin had dragged him on a three day adventure.
Seeing that the horses were fed, watered, and resting comfortably, Talathel pulled out some bread and fruit from his pack and had himself a sunrise breakfast. He occasionally gave some food to Arandur.
With the meal completed he headed back to the room. Since we didn't specify, I'm going to say we shared a room. He sat in a chair and waited for Darvin and Thjodolf to awaken. Eventually there were signs of life from his two companions.
"If you don't hurry, you'll be late for class today! If you miss school you won't learn your spells and what a dull elf you'll be!"
Thjodolf looked at him strangely.
"My mother used to say that to me before I went to school."
"You no know spells."
"I skipped a few days."
Monday, March 1, 2010
The Interrogation of Sorts
As the side of the tent was just starting to lighten with the dawn, three young elves arrived to gather the three of them. They had not seen these elves on their way into the camp.
Kailina and Janusa exited their tents meekly, looking to Beranhond as they tried to decide whether or not to let their fear and hesitation show. There would be no singing this day, it seemed.
Beranhond's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+10:
11,+10
Total:21
"Greetings, Beranhond," the tall woman in the middle said. "Please come with us. The council will see you now, and decide what is to be done with you."
“Of course. Lead on.”
The tall woman led, and the other two elves, one with tanned skin and bright white hair and the other with a ruddy brown complexion and dark brown hair, followed the group of three. A guard went in front of the entire group, and two flanked them as they walked through the camp. In the early morning light, many were moving about, and Beranhond saw that the camp was a hodge podge of different styles of shelters and living arrangements grouped organically, as if each small cluster of shelters was a different type of flower and each had somehow found a way to coexist with the others in a beautiful, chaotic way.
The group walked out of the camp, and around one of the main hills that surrounded the encampment to a small natural amphitheatre, where roughly 20 people of various races and ages were seated on a hillside facing a small flat area, where the three were led.
Standing in the flat area was Sifuhn and the other two from the night before.
"Welcome, Beranhond, Kailina and Janusa," said Sifuhn as they approached the small staging area. "As your captors, it is our duty to see that the council knows your intent in this land. You are to be questioned here, in their presence. As part of our training as stewards of the land, we are asked to gather the information they seek, and our advancement will be judged based on how well we handle things. Please help us, and we will do what we can to see that you are sent safely on your way."
Sifuhn's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+1:
4,+1
Total:5
Beranhond smiled. "So, your advancement is in my hands? Well, I have no problem helping you, however you will certainly have to make a more convincing case - for you shall rarely find someone as helpful as I am wandering about the plains. Make your case more strongly so that the council can see your true abilities."
Sifuhn swallowed, but nodded.
"I shall of course divulge all my information to help you in the end, but as we are in negotiations now that will certainly not do."
It was the other man with them the night before who began the proceedings, however. He stepped to the front of the small flat area as if it were a stage, and began speaking. "Council, know that I am Pelannin Treemane, and along with Sifuhn Lee and Gabrielle Finore we will be questioning these three witnesses who have wandered into this area that is smitten with war and strife. We will attempt to divulge from them exactly what they are doing and why they have been traveling with our enemies: those allied with Torm and Lathander."
Pelannin turned to Kailina first. "Please state your name and what brings you to the Goldenfields badlands at this time for the council to hear."
Kailina took a deep breath, "my name is Kailina, I am originally from Balder's gate and was recruited by Beranhond to be a crewmember aboard the Lady Narath. When he asked for volunteers to join him in searching out the Druids of Goldenfields I volunteered."
Gabrielle continued the questioning, turning to Janusa, "Please state your name, and explain to everyone present why you would be searching out the Druids of Goldenfields."
"My name is Janusa. I am also a crewmember of the Lady Narath, and honestly I have no reason why we are searching out the druids. Beranhond is the one who had that in mind."
"My name is Ethelred Beranhond. I am a follower of Narath and was told to come here by her. I am seeking information as we both fear that dark deeds are happening in this region."
Beranhond: "Who has been attacking you? They say they have been attacked by the undead lately that has decimated their ranks."
Kailina and Janusa exited their tents meekly, looking to Beranhond as they tried to decide whether or not to let their fear and hesitation show. There would be no singing this day, it seemed.
“Greetings, fair elves. My name is Beranhond, cleric of Narath. I wish you peace”
Beranhond's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+10:
11,+10
Total:21
"Greetings, Beranhond," the tall woman in the middle said. "Please come with us. The council will see you now, and decide what is to be done with you."
“Of course. Lead on.”
The tall woman led, and the other two elves, one with tanned skin and bright white hair and the other with a ruddy brown complexion and dark brown hair, followed the group of three. A guard went in front of the entire group, and two flanked them as they walked through the camp. In the early morning light, many were moving about, and Beranhond saw that the camp was a hodge podge of different styles of shelters and living arrangements grouped organically, as if each small cluster of shelters was a different type of flower and each had somehow found a way to coexist with the others in a beautiful, chaotic way.
The group walked out of the camp, and around one of the main hills that surrounded the encampment to a small natural amphitheatre, where roughly 20 people of various races and ages were seated on a hillside facing a small flat area, where the three were led.
Standing in the flat area was Sifuhn and the other two from the night before.
"Welcome, Beranhond, Kailina and Janusa," said Sifuhn as they approached the small staging area. "As your captors, it is our duty to see that the council knows your intent in this land. You are to be questioned here, in their presence. As part of our training as stewards of the land, we are asked to gather the information they seek, and our advancement will be judged based on how well we handle things. Please help us, and we will do what we can to see that you are sent safely on your way."
Sifuhn's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+1:
4,+1
Total:5
Beranhond smiled. "So, your advancement is in my hands? Well, I have no problem helping you, however you will certainly have to make a more convincing case - for you shall rarely find someone as helpful as I am wandering about the plains. Make your case more strongly so that the council can see your true abilities."
Sifuhn swallowed, but nodded.
"I shall of course divulge all my information to help you in the end, but as we are in negotiations now that will certainly not do."
It was the other man with them the night before who began the proceedings, however. He stepped to the front of the small flat area as if it were a stage, and began speaking. "Council, know that I am Pelannin Treemane, and along with Sifuhn Lee and Gabrielle Finore we will be questioning these three witnesses who have wandered into this area that is smitten with war and strife. We will attempt to divulge from them exactly what they are doing and why they have been traveling with our enemies: those allied with Torm and Lathander."
Pelannin turned to Kailina first. "Please state your name and what brings you to the Goldenfields badlands at this time for the council to hear."
Kailina took a deep breath, "my name is Kailina, I am originally from Balder's gate and was recruited by Beranhond to be a crewmember aboard the Lady Narath. When he asked for volunteers to join him in searching out the Druids of Goldenfields I volunteered."
Gabrielle continued the questioning, turning to Janusa, "Please state your name, and explain to everyone present why you would be searching out the Druids of Goldenfields."
"My name is Janusa. I am also a crewmember of the Lady Narath, and honestly I have no reason why we are searching out the druids. Beranhond is the one who had that in mind."
Sifuhn took his turn finally, gesturing to Beranhond, "Please speak your name very loudly, and tell us, why were you so worried about finding us?"
"My name is Ethelred Beranhond. I am a follower of Narath and was told to come here by her. I am seeking information as we both fear that dark deeds are happening in this region."
Pelannin walked over to Janusa. "Is Beranhond your leader, then? How long have you been traveling with him and why do you follow him?"
Janusa smiled to calm her nerves. "Beranhond is our spiritual leader, but not our captain or the owner of the ship. When he was told to find a crew he searched for those pure of heart and good hearted, I answered his call because women are rarely found on ship and he bore no prejudice towards us. I have been travelling with him only a short while now; however he is well known in Balder's gate as he healed the masses after the earthquake and he and his company defeated the wererats that had been causing turmoil in the sewers."
Gabrielle asked Beranhond, "How did you make sure your crew was "pure of heart and good hearted? And who was the captain and the owner of the ship?"
"Well, the captain of the crew is a bit of a romantic and is off chasing after the "love of his life" up in Silverymoon. She happens to be the owner of the ship and is a half-elf from the High forest." He laughed slightly. "We are quite an odd crew as another of a crew is a half elf monk of the old order."
"As for how they were pure and good hearted... of course such things can be hard to tell, but I interviewed them, talked to them about their faith, and had them sign a pledge to not drink or use substances. They also join me in prayer in the morning."
Sifuhn asked Beranhond, "Who is this Narath you follow. What is her portfolio? How would we know her? Does the entire crew follow Narath as well, then, since you are leading them in prayer?"
Sifuhn's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+1:
17,+1
Total:18
Sifuhn's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+1:
17,+1
Total:18
"Narath is a fairly new God, I would be surprised if you knew her." He paused for a moment trying to decide how to explain it.
"I am her first prophet and first follower. There are a few others who have joined me in Balder's gate... but the crew do not follow her, I lead them in ecumenical services that embrace personal choice of faith."
"As for her portfoilio... you might say that her ultimate interest is in life and in experiencing life."
Pelannin: "Kailina, when would you turn to Narath? When you are looking to make money? When you are interested in finding a husband? Your companion Beranhond just told us her interest is in 'life.' That sounds as if she is against the undead. Is she allied with Lathander, then?"
"I can't really answer you about Narath. I don't know if I would turn to Narath I am quite happy with my faith. I can't quite understand the question..." Kailina responded.
Gabrielle returned to Kailina. "Chauntea is the earth mother. I follow her because I hold growth and those who tend the land in high regard. She also represents life. A deity's portfolio is all of the things they hold dear, and most people try to find a deity they respect and who holds the same things dear. If you donow pray to Narath, who do you worship, and why?"
"I follow Selune, my parents have before me and my parents before me. I follow her because of her emphasis on navigation, a useful thing for one at sea."
Sifuhn asked Janusa, "Would you please explain to us how you feel about your former companions, the paladins of Lathander and Torm, who traveled with you to within 10 miles of the Goldenfields abbey before finding their end."
Sifuhn's Intimidate Roll(+5 Circumstance bonus due to being in enemy hands):
Roll(1d20)+5:
14,+5
Total:19
Sifuhn's Intimidate Roll(+5 Circumstance bonus due to being in enemy hands):
Roll(1d20)+5:
14,+5
Total:19
Janusa grew a little nervous. "How I feel about them? Well, the Paladins have always striven for good and righteousness and it was really sad to see them dead upon the road? I search for life so I mourned there passage." She said.
Pelannin spoke. "At this point, we will begin questioning each other back and forth. You three may take turns asking us questions, and we will take turns asking you questions. By tradition, generally each person takes a turn questioning, but as you are not of our beliefs, you may choose to ask the questions however you wish. Do you have any questions about the process before we begin?"
"Is there any limit on the question we can ask?" Beranhond asked.
"You may ask any question you wish of the three of us. You may not ask a question of any member of the council seated here, but we will be as honest and thorough as we can be in answering your questions and expect you to do the same." Pelannin replied.
Beranhond licked his lips and turned to the three questioners. "Please explain how followers of a God of life can justify the killing of Paladin's? I held my tounge last night and spent the morning praying for their passage. But perhaps you can illuminate me on why they needed to be butchered in such a cold hearted manner."
Beranhond's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+10:
15,+10
Total:25
Beranhond's Diplomacy Roll:
Roll(1d20)+10:
15,+10
Total:25
Gabrielle answered, "Chauntea teaches us that death is a part of life. The wheat dies in the autumn to make way for the fields to be planted anew. We killed those men because we are at war with them. You do not wait for your enemies to come and have a chance to kill you. You strike before they are able to strike you."
Gabrielle continued, "They knew they were entering into hostile territory. We have been engaged in battle for weeks now, and have been sending them messages for weeks before them to ask them to stop their attacks on us. Why do they ignore us? Why do they continue to press the attack?"
Beranhond: "They made no mention of a conflict with the Druids. They agreed to accompany me to find you without any mention of a conflict with you! In fact, they said that they hadn't heard from you in quite some time."
Beranhond: "Who has been attacking you? They say they have been attacked by the undead lately that has decimated their ranks."
Pelannin responded. "There are many different kinds of attacks. We have been under attack by Lathander for months now. Sacred places have been desecrated withLathander's symbol left behind, creatures being brutally mauled and left wounded for no apparent reason, branded with the symbol of Lathander, and finally, after these undead attacks began, we were able to capture a man who we thought was behind it, he turned out to be a priest of Lathander. We have sent our emissaries, and they have gone missing. So we have started defending ourselves. The priests of light will find they have plenty to fear once they step foot outside their cities."
Pelannin nodded to Sifuhn, who continued the questioning. "Did they make any mention of their attacks on our people? Their 'scouting parties' that are tasked with keeping us under their heel? Do your 'friends' at the temple in Baldur's Gate and Waterdeep sleep well at night knowing the evil they are spreading in the world?"
Pelannin nodded to Sifuhn, who continued the questioning. "Did they make any mention of their attacks on our people? Their 'scouting parties' that are tasked with keeping us under their heel? Do your 'friends' at the temple in Baldur's Gate and Waterdeep sleep well at night knowing the evil they are spreading in the world?"
"What evil are they spreading in the world?" He decided to take a slightly different approach. "Naturally, they did not mention any evil. Do you have any idea who is causing the undead?" Beranhond said curiously - Narath had warned him about someone trying to raise a dark God.
Pelannin stepped in. "You were asked a question. Please answer it before you take your own turn. This is our tradition. Thank you."
Beranhond: "My appologies. They mentioned that their scouting parties were designed to keep the undead in check and that the animals had gone mad. They did not mention that they were attacking you. They only said that they hadn't heard from you in weeks. As for my friends in the temple... they naturally did not mention how well they were sleeping or whether they were causing any evil. Indeed the temple in Balder's Gate was destroyed by an attack from an Earthquake spell."
Sifuhn replied to Beranhond's question. "Did you not hear the first time? They tainted and destroyed many locations and creatures that we consider holy and do our best to protect. They have begun destroying farmland, poisoning water supplies, and doing their best to bring decay and rot to our lands. If that is not evil, I'm not sure what is." Sifuhn let Pelannin take over once more.
"Beranhond, you say that you are Narath's first propthet and follower. How long have you been devoted to her? And were you a follower of a different deity before that?" Pelannin asked.
"Beranhond, you say that you are Narath's first propthet and follower. How long have you been devoted to her? And were you a follower of a different deity before that?" Pelannin asked.
"Well, in all honesty that is a difficult question to answer. In pragmatic terms I have not been following her publically for too long. However, in another way I have always been following her. She first spoke me to me around a decade ago and her voice spread doubt about my former beliefs." He paused for a moment, bit his lip and began again. "I technically followed Torm before her. Yet, my faith was never strong, nor did I find his message all that interesting. I joined his order for the upward mobility being a Paladin of Torm can provide. Yet, I was often in trouble with the schoolmasters for my questions and I was the last of my cohort to pass the rite of muckab before I fled under Narath's encouragement."
"When did the relations between you and Lathander's followers first go sour? Were there any events that brought about this war?"
Gabrielle answered. "There was no one event that began this war. It began about a year ago, when several owlbears were found cruelly experimented on, killed and reawakened as undead. They were branded with Lathander's seal, and we though this was a jest, or at least an attempt to make us question our onetime allies, but every attempt to find out who was really behind it yielded an answer ofLathander's priests and warriors. We tried to ask the priests about the undead, and they scoffed that such a thing could be done, and then, when we showed them evidence of the act, they claimed we had fabricated the thing. They refused to help us or even acknowledge it as a concern. Shortly after that, things began escalating. They stopped receiving our emissaries, they started attacking their former allies on sight, and things turned bitter cold between our two groups rather quickly. They haven't accepted an emissary in the past 3 months, and we haven't seen a follower of Lathander or Torm in that time that hasn't attacked us without provocation if we have not attacked first."
Gabrielle smoothly transitioned into her question. "I request that you channel your healing powers to heal an injured member of our group. In this way, you will show us that Narath is, at the least, not an evil goddess, since you seem to have so little to say about her other than that 'her ultimate interest is in life and experiencing life.'"
Gabrielle smoothly transitioned into her question. "I request that you channel your healing powers to heal an injured member of our group. In this way, you will show us that Narath is, at the least, not an evil goddess, since you seem to have so little to say about her other than that 'her ultimate interest is in life and experiencing life.'"
"Certainly. Where are they?" He paused. "As for your second point - part of the reason that I have 'so little to say' is that she sent me, as her First Prophet, to articulate her emphasis and interests. As a result, I am still finding out what exactly she stands for. If you are interested I could talk to you more about her revelation 'evolution.' But it can be a little dry."
Gabrielle gestured, and a young halfling woman stepped forward. She walked with a slight limp.
Beranhond raised the shield, which drew some odd looks from people. Calling forth healing energy he let it flow outwards from the shield. The blue light shot out from the shield and bathed the crowd and the halfling in its light.
Healing:
Roll(2d6)+2:
3,4,+2
Total:9
Healing:
Roll(2d6)+2:
3,4,+2
Total:9
The halfling woman took off her boot and sock, unwrapped the bandages, and scowled. To herself, and half to Beranhond, she said, "I liked that scar . It was a good lesson learned. I suppose I can get another though." Turning to those assembled, she announced, "It's healed." and walked back to where she was.
Beranhond: "You mentioned that you caught a Lathander Priest... what did he reveal under questioning? Did he mention any new alliances?"
"We caught him, but were unable to discover anything about him other than his name. He... escaped," was Pelannin's response. "His name was Ishmael."
Sifuhn stepped up to ask the next question. "Janusa, is it possible to have integrity but not honesty? How about duty but not compassion?"
Sifuhn stepped up to ask the next question. "Janusa, is it possible to have integrity but not honesty? How about duty but not compassion?"
She looked awkwardly at her for a moment. "I don't see why not. Integrity is maintaing your own personal convictions and honesty might not be one of them. Duty and compassion can be quite separate. But I am not really the one to ask about metaphysics and philosophy - I am a servant of the sea and the sea doesn't ask nearly such difficult questions."
Beranhond: "How can you be sure that some group isn't playing both sides against each other? Are you certain that Lathander, being historically such a good force, has turned towards evil?"
Pelannin answered. "That was our original thought, as well. It seems much more logical that there is someone else trying to make us attack each other, but every attempt we have made to find out who is at fault has led us to Lathander. We have already waited too long and lost too many for us to turn back now."
"I have no more questions. Sifuhn, Gabrielle, do either of you have any more questions?" Both of them shook their heads, and Pelannin continued. "Then, per tradition, you have 3 more questions you may ask of us before this questioning is ended."
"I have no more questions. Sifuhn, Gabrielle, do either of you have any more questions?" Both of them shook their heads, and Pelannin continued. "Then, per tradition, you have 3 more questions you may ask of us before this questioning is ended."
Beranhond: "What about Torm? Have you figured out what role Torm has played in this region?"
Gabrielle answered, "No. We don't know why Torm is involved. Any help you could provide to help us find that answer would be appreciated, but I don't really expect you to have any valuable knowledge, being away from Torm for all this time."
Beranhond: "All I know is that the Paladins of Torm have been in this region for quite some time. One of my friends was sent here a few years ago on some special assignment."
Beranhond: "Second question, from your perspective why would the Lathander order send Paladins as an escort for me on my quest to seek you if they are at war with you?"
Sifuhn answered, "They were a scouting party, trying to find where we are camped and how many we are so they can be more informed for their next moves. You are the oddity in this situation, not the paladins with you."
Beranhond: "My third question requires some background. Narath sent me here because she fears that a dark God is being raised or summoned. I suspect that this has something to do with the earthquake spell cast upon the Temple of Lathander in Balder's Gate. Further, one of the Priests of Lathander in Balder's Gate appeared to be attempting to create undead creatures. He mentioned that "they are sending me bodies now." Within all of these elements do you have any insight you could provide, or a suggestion of where to search for more information?"
Pelannin answered this last question. "I have no idea what raising a god would entail, nor do I know anything about sending bodies. However, there have been rumors about a conflict between the Temple of Lathander in Baldur's Gate and a druid's circle in the area. We don't have much commerce with other circles, but we have heard of another group that took much stronger action against the priests there."
Beranhond: "Thank you for your answers, they certainly help to illuminate, and confuse, the situation."
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