Southern Seas - Act 23 - Ramathia - Summer 47, 57 AD

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5 Jul

The morning dawns hot and clear. Shaiman, Eraiel and the other elves have gathered in his tent to rethink their exploration plans. He's asked that two elves come with you. You know them both - Almanin, the elf who was quite taken with BELLESH's experience in charming the Damned, and Angon, the Elf mage who had been with you in the Athenum. Both elves seem very excited at the prospect of seeing Ramathia on land and up close!

You are given enough food to distribute among you for five days, as they reckon it will take that long to move up north towards the city, do a bit of exploring and come back. Once supplied, along with water for a couple of days, Shaiman wishes you well with a salute and sees you off.

The rest of the day is a wandering trek up the hot sand, northwards along the forest edge. Racous birds trill their calls at your passing and you hear animals hoot and howl as you make your way along. At midday, a squall rolls over you from the west to the east, sweeping around the volcano and drenching you for a time, then passing by just as quickly.

The roll of the ocean and the plodding along on the sand has a lulling effect, especially without any real interruption of the jungle and land. Almanin and Angon speak to each of you as you trudge along, commenting on the island, the weather, the heat, and questions about your adventures around Skalfier. Almanin still seems deeply intrigued by CALLIN's faith, and Angon gently inquires as to BELLESH's and GRAIAN's magical training.

It is late afternoon when to your left, the jungle gives way to a few miles of thick grasslands. It is here that you first hear the roaring! Suddenly, out of the grass, a large form erupts to the sky, followed by two smaller black forms! They twist and turn, the larger one clawing at the two smaller, as they turn and twist to flank the larger beast. They look like flying lions and panthers!

The tawny lion swats at one of the black flying panthers and it lets out a wail as the beast's claws dig deep, sending the black cat in a spiral to the ground. It roars and swings around to face the other panther.

18 Jun

What will you do?

18 Jun

ATACIUS: "Quiet everyone! Be still!" whispers the littleling when he sees the beasts. "Now, move slowly away..." he adds when the lion face the remaining panther.

18 Jun

TAKASHI: "Flying cats. Most unusual. Do any of you recognize these beasts?"

18 Jun

Crouching down a bit into the grass, BELLESH stares wide-eyed at the creatures as he sweats beneath his hood. He shakes his head slowly in response to TAKASHI's question, but does not take his eyes off of the flying felines.

19 Jun

GRAIAN watches intently, says quietly "No I have not seen anything like this."

19 Jun

The second black panther seems to be more nimble in its twists and turns. It rakes its claws on the underside of the larger flying lion, who roars and groans in pain and fury. They spiral up and down, clawing at each other, cuffing and biting when they can.

Just as it seems that the lion has the upper hand and has managed to get in a position to bite its neck, the second black panther leaps to the sky and jumps on the lion's hindquarters. It's claws dig in deep and it bites deep into the lions back! The large cat snarls and cries out! All three tumble to the ground, where a big thud and sudden silence descends. You figure they landed about 160 feet away from you.

19 Jun

TAKASHI: "Dare we intervene?"

19 Jun

ATACIUS: "Wha.. why would you? Let's keep moving!"

19 Jun

TAKASHI: "We have a good record so far of talking to large flying creatures... There might be more to see here than meets the eye, initially. Or, they could just be large flying cats. I don't know."

19 Jun

ATACIUS: "Do you want to wait, see how the fight ends and talk with the winner or intervene now and try to help them solve their differences? If you want to wait this gold piece says the lion wins."

20 Jun

Angon, Almanin and Claudia are enthralled with the battle. Angon whispers to you all "I've heard of mages being able to control the flying panthers, but I think the only place that the lions have been seen is near what you call ... hmmm... Regnum City? Central? They're very rare, usually only in the mountains in those lands. That they're here is fascinating!"

The silence is suddenly broken with the lion erupting from the grass and moving off in the direction of the forest to the south, limping! Severe gashes are on its hindquarters. There are a couple of snarls from the grasses, but you see no other movement. You do hear a slight whimpering/cry from the area where they landed.

"Too bad we don't have someone from the tribes or someone learned in animal care." Almanin says sadly. "It sounds like one is hurt. I'm not sure what we can do, though."

20 Jun

CALLIN Will chant: "By the LIGHT of this land may it shine upon my to be a beacon of hope for those that are wounded in battle. May my voice ring true to any beasts of battle, and may my ears hear their crys!" CALLIN will cast Speak to Animals, and then call out to the Lion:

" Great warrior of this land, I am CALLIN of the LIGHT and I can mend your wound from battle if you will let me. I and my friends come in peace!"

20 Jun

ATACIUS seeing the flying lion flee into the forest digs into his pouch and hands his friend a gold coin. "Here TAKASHI, I honor my bets."

20 Jun

TAKASHI: "No, friend, I made no bet with you! If I've learned anything in my travels, it is to be wary of games of chance. Save your coin and buy me an ale at the next inn we stay, assuming we ever see one again." (TAKASHI smiles)

21 Jun

BELLESH walks slowly and cautiously towards the sounds of the wounded panthers, the whimpering/cry.

21 Jun

"I hurt! I go back to where I live!" roars the lion as it disappears into the thick woods. You hear it stumbling about and then after a few minutes, there is silence.

More softly, CALLIN, you hear from the grass. "It will be OK, Braggu. The wound will stop bleeding, I am sure of it."

"But it HURTS, Praga! So much... You are sure the little ones are safe?"

The rest of you hear a soft rumble and a pained snarl from the grass.

Then, CALLIN, you hear "Shhh... something approaches, Praga! Make sure the little ones stay hidden. I will deal with anything coming close."

21 Jun

CALLIN will call out the Praga and Braggu. "Praga and Braggu, I am CALLIN, my friends and I come in peace. I can help mend your wound if you would let me."

25 Jun

There is a silence for a few heartbeats. ATACIUS and GRAIAN hear the sounds of a cautious snuffing.

Then ... "Who are you who makes our sounds, yet smells like a two-legged-pink-and-brown-walker? You smell different than the others, who leave us alone and do not make our sounds? Why would you help us?"

26 Jun

CALLIN: "I am CALLIN, and I am indeed a huma...two-legged-pink-and-brown-walker. I am from across the water, and through my Faith in the Light I can make your sounds and heal your wounds. I wish to help you so that we might be friends with one another."

26 Jun

BELLESH stops on the way to the panthers and tries to figure out what's going on; it seems to him like they and CALLIN are growling back and forth to each other.

5 Jul

There is a long pause, and a low rumble from the direction of the cats.

Then, to BELLESH's surprise, a black cat face pokes out of the grass at him! It's not very big, seems almost like a kitten! It makes a grumble/rawr noise in a small cat voice, which is immediately responded to by a larger cat growl/mrow further back!

CALLIN, you hear "There is a two legger here in the grass, Momma! It has no hair and it smells different than the shaggy two leggers! I like it!"

Then in response "Sonoya! What are you doing away from where we told you to stay! Do not move! It might be dangerous!"

27 Jun

BELLESH can't help but smile at the cuteness of the kitten. He bends down slowly into a crouch and extends his arm to hold his hand in its direction.

27 Jun

TAKASHI: "I'd be careful with that cat, BELLESH. It looks young, which means that mother must be close by."

27 Jun

CALLIN whips his head around and gives Bellesh a very hard look. But doesn't speak to him. Instead he calls out to the cats once again. "I can help if, if you let me, I will come alone and tend to your wounds. I give you my word I will cause no harm, I only wish to mend your wounds."

27 Jun

ATACIUS will look for some food to offer the black kitten. "Here BELESH, try this..." he says handing the food.

5 Jul

The small cat shows no fear as it places its head into BELLESH's outstretched hand. It has tiny wings on its back, similar to bat wings - they look thin, soft and leathery. It rumbles and purrs.

CALLIN, you hear "Oh momma, the two leg walker with no hair is nice! He's touching my head. His hands are warm!"

BELLESH, just then, a LARGER cat head appears out of the grass!

It looks at you and rumbles a warning growl. It slowly leans in and grabs the small cat by the scruff of the neck, watching you VERY carefully. The cat has visible wounds on its face and neck, with blood dripping. It moves back away from you, very cautiously.

The look on the younger cat's face looks like what a young child's face would look like if they were disappointed and knowing they were in trouble!

28 Jun

GRAIAN watches all this, assuming Callin is talking to the flying cats and wishing he could understand. "Hopefully we will learn something useful about this strange place" he says to himself quietly.

28 Jun

BELLESH smiles when the young, winged feline touches his hand, but freezes, eyes wide, as the large cat appears. After they move away, BELLESH looks back gratefully at ATACIUS, taking the food in his hands and placing it on the ground in the direction of the cats. Then, he backs away slowly from them and the food.

28 Jun

CALLIN: " please let me mend your wound. Other hunters will smell the wound and track you. I promise I can mend it, we only wish to help you protect your child."

2 Jul

There is a pause and CALLIN hears "... but moooooom... he has something to eat!!!" and a growl that ends in a definite warning. "STAY put!"

Another pause and then ... "You may come." but it sounds unsure.

Approaching through the grass, you come upon the two larger black flying panthers. One has serious wounds on it's hindquarters, sides, neck and face. It lies bleeding and panting in the grass, the blood matted and pooled underneath it. Another cat lies crouched to the side, a smaller version crouched beside it as well. It ripples its small wings in response to your approach.

The lesser wounded cat, crouching, looks and smells at you. "What will you do, two leg who makes our sounds?"

2 Jul

CALLIN: Comes slowly hands in plain site. "I will call to the LIGHT, all that is good in this world, and lay my hand gently on the wounded, and the LIGHT will mend these wounds. I give you my word that I will cause no harm and only heal. " CALLIN will then proceed to kneel next to the more wounded and cast cure light wounds. "May the LIGHT shine upon thee, may it cause comfort and ease. May it bind that which has become weak from battle, and give hope and warmth."

5 Jul

The large panther makes a growling noise while CALLIN prays, but does nothing else.

At his words " ... May it bind that which has become weak from battle, and give hope and warmth", the wounds begin to do that, to bind and close. Not all of them completely heal, and there is still a severe wound on the panther's hindquarters. To CALLIN's eye, though, it looks less severe.

The other panther mrows softly. "Braggu... the two legs has made you better! I can't believe it! Just by making sounds and touching you."

The large panther leans over and licks its wounds and smells, then stands, somewhat shakily and growls. "Yes, Praga... I can stand now."

Meanwhile, the smaller cat has gone over to investigate what BELLESH has in his hands, sniffing the food that ATACIUS gave. It sticks out a tongue, tastes the bread and makes a face.

"Ick! It's not very good, poor two legs don't eat good food!"

"Praga" turns and looks at the smaller cat. "Hush, Jellish. Don't eat their food, that is for them!"

Braggu speaks to CALLIN. "I have never had such a thing happen to me. Had I known that two legs were so powerful, I would avoid them all the more. But you have used that to help me, not hurt me, and I thank you."

2 Jul

BELLESH sees the kitten's reaction to ATACIUS' food and takes a look in his own pouch to see if he has something more meaty, perhaps a bit of fish or chicken, that might be more to the cats' taste.

3 Jul

ATACIUS: "There goes some good travel bread..." says the littleling, a touch of dismay in his voice.

3 Jul

CALLIN: "You are welcome Braggu, I am glad I could help. We are new to this land, and wish to travel in peace. Helping those along the way seems a good way to earn favor to those around us. We plan to travel to the city built by the two legs long ago, do you know the best way for my friends and I to travel there?"

5 Jul

Jellish (bigger than a kitten, but obviously a young cat) starts to poke around BELLESH's feet and legs, uncurling and ruffling its leathery wings while it keeps a hopeful eye on the young mage as he sifts through his back (BELLESH, it's up to you if you have something meaty for Jellish).

Braggu cocks his head at CALLIN and seems to consider his words before speaking.

"There are places that we do not go, they smell of death and of things that are best left undisturbed. My sire and mam taught me the places of danger - the mountain that burns, beyond the rocks of the waters and the place of death where the two legged once lived. The trees and grass continue to come to that place, but we do not go there. I could not tell you the best way, for us, it would be to stay away! If you do decide to go, know that the creatures that live there are ... not the same as they used to be."

Claudia has moved forward a bit and is wide eyed looking at both. Praga turns to look at the young lady, then begins to lick her own wounds. Claudia makes a sad face, then gets out her water skin, pours some in her hand and tentatively holds it out to Praga. The black panther looks at her carefully, then begins to lap at the water, Claudia pouring more in to make sure the cat has enough.

Braggu says to CALLIN "You are generous with your powers and actions. I have never heard of such from the two legs, beyond a rare few. The life of my son, my child, is assured for another day thanks to you."

5 Jul

BELLESH pulls out some of the dried fish he'd pocketed from the Amarisa. Cupping it in his hand, he kneels down and holds it out for Jellish. (@Michael S I don't know if having a character named 'Jellish' will help or hurt with all the mis-spellings of 'Bellesh'. I've corrected the ones on this page.)

5 Jul

GRAIAN looks on at the unfurling scene, "Bellesh, maybe you have found your familiar" he calls out in a gentle voice, not wishing to startle the cats.

5 Jul

CALLIN says to Braggu: "Mine is the way of the LIGHT and it shines upon all of us, if we walk on 2 or 4 legs. And this day it shines upon you, so you may continue to protect and provide for your family. I am thankful that I have been given the power to help those in need. I wish you a speedy recovery, and safe hunting! Should you need my help again know that I will always be willing to help." CALLIN then gives a blessing to the family of cats "May the LIGHT shine upon thee, may it keep your stomachs full, and your eyes sharp. May it bring you good hunting, and safety at rest." CALLIN pauses and then asks. "Is there anything else I can do for you and your family Braggu?"

6 Jul

Braggu again takes a moment to consider your words.

"Two legs see things in ways we do not. It is strange. And use many words in ways we do not. Whatever you have done, we will remember you as not-enemies and not-food, much like the other two legs who make our sounds. May your hunts be fruitful and your travels be swift." Braggu says.

"You have our gratitude for having done what you did. Your powers are strong. May they help you if you do go to the places of death." Praga adds.

Jellish says nothing, happily eating BELLESH's offered dried fish. "It is odd, but it is good!" it rumbles in a happy tone to Praga after eating every morsel.

6 Jul

After Jellish finishes, BELLESH strokes the back of his head and scratches behind his ears.

CALLIN, as you straighten up, a wall of sound assaults your ears! Animals are speaking everywhere, talking about food, about mating, about "this is my territory, not yours!" It takes some effort to shut them out of your mind, much like you would in a very crowded temple!

As you begin to move away back up the beach, you hear a sharp tone from Praga.

"Jellish! Come back!"

"Aw moooom.... I want to go with the no-hair two leg! He was nice to me and he might have more of that tasty dried fish..." you hear in a hopeful voice.

"Son, you cannot. Where they go, we must not." Braggu adds.

"Awww...."

6 Jul

BELLESH doesn't understand the sounds Jellish makes, but he thinks he understands the look on his face. Raising his arm with his hand open, BELLESH softly says "goodbye" before turning away.

Your walking soon takes you out of range of the cats.

The rest of the late afternoon and early evening is continued walking. After a time, the voices turn back into animal sounds that CALLIN cannot understand. Claudia is very impressed by this new "miracle" and she asks you many times what the animals are saying in response to hearing a screech or loud sound.

In the distance, the towers of Ramathia can be seen, as can a general white "haze" that marks the great wall of the city. You figure it's another fourth or half day walk away to reach it. The shoreline curves to the west, marking a cove or bay of some sort.

If you wish to find a location for camping, it's easy enough to simply find a spot with decent enough cover. What will you do for fire or other comforts?

6 Jul

BELLESH has his magnifying glass in his pocket that could be used to help start a fire if we can find some wood and kindling.

6 Jul

ATACIUS remembers he also has a magnifying glass and mimics BELLESH technique. "That's a nice tricke there!"

6 Jul

BELLESH smiles at the compliment from ATACIUS. "Yeah... I guess we'd better be careful not to do any damage to the forest, though."

9 Jul

CALLIN: will translate what he heard as best he can to the rest of the group, especially Claudia. Once the spell fades, he will explain to Claudia: "The time for this Miracle has passed, as we have solved the problem the LIGHT wished to expose, and that it is time to focus on heading to the city. I would heed the warnings of Braggu and Praga. Things in the city are not what they once were, and that it is a place of death and darkness to be avoided. It would be wise for us to be cautious as we explore this place."

9 Jul

GRAIAN nods in agreement, "Yes, I fear there are many strange things ahead of us, both man and beast have told us the same thing. We must be very careful and \ever watchful as we move through this island. I hope it releases the promises of rich knowledge we believe are here for I suspect this will be a costly journey." He sighs and walk a little distance before sitting down and stares out to sea.

10 Jul

Summer 47/48 - Morning

There is a good amount of driftwood and fallen wood available (and I'm thinking one of you has a flint/steel, but the magnifying glass works just as well for igniting kindling and then a fire.)

The wind is fairly brisk and the fire burns bright and fast. The sky is clear outside the campfire and the stars seem bright. You can even see the "Dusk Sisters" - four bright lights that become visible and then fade away behind the horizon, faithfully each night appearing in approximately the same place.

The sounds of the night creatures is loud, and mixes with the waves to make a comforting sound for you to sleep to.

BELLESH, you feel especially warm and comfortable... and as you wake up in the morning, you realize that is because there is a small black cat with wings sleeping next to you!

10 Jul

What will you do today?

10 Jul

BELLESH starts at first, then laughs and pets Jellish. "Ha! It looks like I'm not the only one that doesn't like anyone telling him what to do!" He gives the cat some more fish to eat and water to drink, and then sits comfortably nearby with his travelling spellbook. "I have to memorize my spells now," he tells Jellish.

12 Jul

CALLIN will begin with his daily prayers, then start prepairing for the day, breakfast, suiting up, and gathering with the others to depart for the city.

12 Jul

The sun light reflects off of towers and spires you can see in the distance, as well as glints of roofs and perhaps the wall that surrounds the huge area that makes up the city of Ramathia.

12 Jul

(During the night watches did we see any lights in the general direction where the city of Ramathia is?)

12 Jul

No, you did not.

12 Jul

TAKASHI readies himself and Claudia for the day's travels.

TAKASHI: "It looks as if we will reach the at least the outskirts of the city today, and should proceed with caution as we approach closer. It seems as if all the inhabitants of the island we have met so far stay well clear of the city, and there must be a good reason for that."

12 Jul

GRAIAN: "I beginning to think they are the wise ones, however, if we are to find out anything we must take a look at the city. Caution indeed is the word."

13 Jul

ATACIUS: After grabbing some breakfast and checking his equipment, he asks BELLESH "Are you taking it to the city?" pointing at the winged cat.

13 Jul

BELLESH: "Well, if he wants to, I guess... maybe CALLIN could use his growling trick to ask him?"

13 Jul

CALLIN: smiles at BELLESH. "I'm sure I could call upon the LIGHT, but if it is a relationship you want with Jellish, you will need to communicate with him. Besides it might be best to save my ability of communing with Animals should we meet another beast within the walls of the city."

13 Jul

Claudia also gives a bit of her dried fish to Jellish, who seems extremely pleased to be so well taken care of by her and BELLESH. She laughs at the young cat's antics.

17 Jul

BELLESH makes sure his equipment is loaded in his backpack and pockets, and gets ready to travel. If they come within sight of the ruins of the city, he will bend down towards Jellish and say, "We're heading there... that's where we're going" while pointing at the city. He'll watch Jellish for any signs that he understands.

18 Jul

(Please make sure to deduct rations from yesterday.)

The travel north takes you again along the beach and at one point, it widens considerably, jutting a fat finger of land out into the ocean. The thick woods continue. Far further to the west, you see the tall, quiet shape of the volcano, with signs of vegetation creeping up to a certain point, then it is dead and blasted, about halfway up. Jellish scampers about, having made friends with Claudia, Almanin and Angon. The two elves seem entranced by the young creature.

It is midday when you reach the end of the beach. At the end is a huge gatehouse/castle, made of white stone which is colored green and brown/gray with dirt, moss and plants. Further beyond the castle is the wall, a tall, white structure which encloses the area within. It is a good twenty five to thirty feet tall. On this side, the ocean laps up against it and its bedrock foundation - seaweed and barnacles coat the bottom of it.

The gatehouse is quiet, from this distance, you don't see any movement aside from a few scraps of perhaps banners or cloth fluttering along the ramparts. The two towers on either side of the massive gate appear quiet as well, their black openings at the top peering at you.

On the other side of the gatehouse is the forest, and perhaps a wall, but the verge goes right up to it.

"That's quite a sight." says Almanin in a hushed voice.

What will you do?

19 Jul

BELLESH stands there, taking it all in, mouth open and eyes wide under his hood. "Wow... do you think we can get through the gates? I can't wait to see what's inside!"

20 Jul

GRAIAN looking at the gates, "I am not sure we have much choice if we want to get inside. The alternatives seem to be the forest or the sea, given the situation with both neither seem to good choices." He listens for any sounds that might be coming from the gatehouse.

20 Jul

Claudia nods to BELLESH's statement and moves up next to him. "How old do you think that is?" she says. "And do you think it's the same inside?"

20 Jul

"From what I've read," BELLESH answers, "it must be hundreds of years old at least, maybe thousands! But there's no telling what it might look like in there now, what with the volcano and the jungle and all..."

Angon takes out a small notebook with a piece of charcoal and quickly sketches out the rough outline, while you all decide on what to do.

GRAIAN, it's as quiet as a tomb.

20 Jul

GRAIAN: "I don't hear anything, Angon, Almanin? We should perhaps move closer."

20 Jul

ATACIUS: "I can go near following the edge of the forest to get some cover and signal you when I reach the gatehouse walls..."

23 Jul

TAKASHI will draw his bow and nock an arrow in place, eyeing the gatehouse and potential ambush spots.

TAKASHI: "These are built for defensive purposes, and though the original architects may be long gone, others may have taken up residence here. Claudia, keep your eyes open, especially for potential ambush locations up high."

23 Jul

CALLIN: will ready his shield and hammer. "By the LIGHT, what man can do when put to task is indeed wonderous!" he then looks to TAKASHI and nods assuming a point position to provide cover with his shield as the group prepare to move forward. He then scrunches his face as his stomach turns a little. "Something Dark lies beyond. I don't know what or where, but I can feel something that is......" CALLIN struggles to find the right words..."....off"

23 Jul

Angon smiles at CALLIN's words. "Man and elf, my friend... these walls were built in the ages before Elves gave the city to humans."

Both of the elves look discomfited by CALLIN's words. Claudia had already been reaching for her bow and looking around at TAKASHI's warning but she gasps at CALLIN's words. "What do you think it is?" she says worriedly.

23 Jul

(Is there any wind? If so, in what direction? If it's favorable maybe we can cover our approach with smoke. Just an idea.)

23 Jul

It's a light breeze, out of the WNW. The daily shower hasn't occurred yet.

23 Jul

BELLESH gets ready to follow behind the others. He'd be happy to carry a lit torch if it will help with ATACIUS' smoke plan. He'll go forward cautiously, trying to keep an eye out for trouble while also keeping an eye on Jellish.

23 Jul

CALLIN smiles back at Angon. "Sorry for the confusion. I am but a simple man. When I refer to man, I"m not speaking only of Humans, but all of us, Elf, Human, Littleones"

23 Jul

GRAIAN drops in behind Callin and Takashi as they prepare to move forward

25 Jul

ATACIUS creeps forward in the tall grass, which oddly, becomes bare earth in an arc around the gatehouse. After awhile, his figure and movement can't be seen in the grass by the rest of you.

ATACIUS, you get to the forest and creep closer to the wall. You realize that there are no sounds of animals or insects here. Nothing. It's totally silent and even your steps and breath sound very loud. You get to the wall and you can see the fine craftsmanship of the wall, the blocks still closely fitted together. You don't feel anything... but a feeling of dread is starting to come over you. Your teeth involuntarily chatter and you realize you feel cold.

Claudia raises her bow and keeps an eye on the top of the gatehouse, her eyes looking nervous as she scans the area.

Angon smiles at CALLIN, but CALLIN -- it's hard for you to notice because you feel a LOT of dread and darkness suddenly from the direction of the gatehouse. It's crushing and dark, as if it wants to just remove every trace of faith and hope from you.

As you all move forward cautiously, Almanin gasps. "Look at the rampart!"

Four figures step out from the two towers, armed with bows. The air seems to ripple around them and they seem to be ... burning?

What will you do?

25 Jul

BELLESH watches the four figures closely for any threatening moves. He'll try to keep both himself and Jellish away from the patch of bare earth around the gatehouse.

25 Jul

CALLIN: staggers a bit as he walks, the dread pushing through him. He then forces out a chant: "May the LIGHT shine upon us, and guide us with it's burning LIGHT" He then solidifies himself a bit "These creatures are nothing but vile darkness. They spread only dread and fear." CALLIN will then step foward his his symbol of the LIGHT hanging proudly from his chest. Shield held fast if they choose to strike. Doing his best to push past the dread creeping in him, knowing deep down that this is caused by these foul creatures.

25 Jul

TAKASHI: "Let fly, Claudia!"

With that, TAKASHI will begin shooting his arrows at the creatures above.

25 Jul

BELLESH, spurred into action by CALLIN and TAKASHI's words, will start to cast a spell targeting one of the burning figures!

26 Jul

Which spell?

26 Jul

Magic missile. I'll glance over at Takashi and Claudia first to see which way they're aiming, so I can target one that they're not already aiming at.

25 Jul

GRAIAN also starts to cast a spell (sleep) at the group of figures.

26 Jul

CALLIN: Noting that his prayer worked by the response of TAKASHI, smiles to himself as his Faith in the LIGHT grows that much stronger!

21 Aug

Combat at the Gatehouse! (Summer 48)

ROUND 1

30 Jul

Round 1:

ATACIUS has broken off from the group and crept close to the city wall, near where the forest comes close to it. The others have started to approach the gatehouse, only to see four strange, burning figures emerge from the two towers on either side of the rampart! CALLIN and ATACIUS have felt an unusual dread crushing them.

DECLARATIONS:

Takashi - TAKASHI: "Let fly, Claudia!" With that, TAKASHI will begin shooting his arrows at the creatures above.

Atacus - ATACIUS will draw his silver dagger but remain hidden watching these dreadful beings, his grip tight on the dagger's hilt. (I assume I'm closer than the rest to these figures. Can I see any detail about them beyond the "burning"? Any smell or sound?) (See your CRS - you'll see more than they can at this point). "CALLIN, they are burning skeletons!" ATACIUS' voice comes from the high grass ahead.

Callin - forces out a chant: "May the LIGHT shine upon us, and guide us with it's burning LIGHT" He then solidifies himself a bit "These creatures are nothing but vile darkness. They spread only dread and fear." CALLIN will then step foward his his symbol of the LIGHT hanging proudly from his chest. CALLIN will cast REMOVE FEAR to help bolster his group against the darkness)

Graian - GRAIAN also starts to cast a spell (sleep) at the group of figures.

Bellesh - BELLESH, spurred into action by CALLIN and TAKASHI's words, will start to cast a spell targeting one of the burning figures!

Claudia - shoots arrows

Angon - holds action, moves with party

Almanin - holds action, moves with party

30 Jul

"May the LIGHT shine upon us, and guide us with it's burning LIGHT" CALLIN chants. He then solidifies himself a bit "These creatures are nothing but vile darkness. They spread only dread and fear." CALLIN will then step foward his his symbol of the LIGHT hanging proudly from his chest. The feeling of dread lightens considerably for himself and those around him and for a moment, it does seem as if all of those around the priest glow a bit.

BELLESH casts a spell and two bolts of magic leap from his outstretched hand towards the figures! One spins around from the impact, but immediately returns to its position.

GRAIAN casts his spell, but he sees no effect from the figures!

"Let fly, Claudia!" With that, TAKASHI will begin shooting his arrows at the creatures above. Claudia follows suit, but their initial shots drop short of the rampart. Claudia's follow up shot also misses, but TAKASHI's scores a hit on one of the figures, despite the long range!

The figures' initial shots rain down among the party slowly approaching! CALLIN and GRAIAN are both wounded by cruel arrows (CALLIN - 4 hp damage, GRAIAN - 5 hp damage)!

"CALLIN, they are burning skeletons!" ATACIUS' voice comes from the high grass ahead.

Two of the figures shift their fire towards the grasses to the left of the gateshouse, firing shots at the direction of ATACIUS's voice! The other two figures fire at the party, the arrows landing behind Angon, who winces and ducks down a bit.

END OF ROUND

ROUND 2

3 Aug

DECLARATIONS:

ATACIUS will move towards the gatehouse wall using the tall grass as cover, then sprint zig-zagging when there's no more cover and flatten himself against it.

BELLESH runs to the best cover he can see (rocks or vegetation) for he and Jellish to kneel behind to try and avoid the deadly arrows. "I was able to hit the right one with a missile spell", he calls to GRAIAN and the others, "but it wasn't enough to stop it!"

CALLIN: "Foul creatures of Darkness, face the LIGHT, may it shine upon and through you! May it shatter the grip of fear you clutch upon, may it douse your necrotic flames, and free your soul!" CALLIN will step forward ignoring the wound lifting his Holy Symbol aloft casting turn undead!

GRAIAN feeling the pain of the arrow and a little weak, he will look to move into cover this round. He would still like to be able to see the figures though

TAKASHI - All, if you don't mind, I'll assume Takashi is firing his bow, which makes the most sense and follows what he was doing last round. If nobody objects, I'll figure out the results this afternoon.

Claudia - will continue to fire, unless TAKASHI tells her otherwise

Angon - helps GRAIAN back, seeing if she can help with the wound.

Almanin - prepares to cast a spell

7 Aug

Your foes seem to gain the initiative! They again launch their deadly shower of missiles, both at the party and at ATACIUS, who is moving through the grass towards the gatehouse wall, using the tall grass for concealment. ATACIUS is hit by one of the arrows! (2 hp damage). The two arrows shot at CALLIN and BELLESH miss.

For a moment, CALLIN, you feel something resist your efforts! It feels dark, evil and powerful and it does not like what you are doing! The flames on the skeletons seem to grow brighter, but as you continue to call out and present your symbol, eventually, the skeletons turn and flee back into the tower!

With no targets in sight, the rest of you take a quick moment's of breath.

However, CALLIN, you feel that this is not yet over...

ROUND 3

8 Aug

DECLARATIONS

ATACIUS: "Just a scratch!" he says as he moves flat against the wall towards the gate.

BELLESH watches the gate for any signs of anything else appearing that might try to kill us. 'What do we do now?" he shouts.

CALLIN: "Whatever darkness lies within these walls, it does not like the LIGHT. It is powerful, so we must be cautious and trust in the LIGHT to guide and protect us!" CALLIN then adds. "ATACIUS, GRAIAN, are you ok?"; CALLIN will make his way defensivly over to GRAIAN to help with his wounds.

GRAIAN: "A little hurt, that arrow did some damage."

TAKASHI

Agon

Almanin

Claudia

8 Aug

The party has the initiative! As of right now, BELLESH, you see nothing on the rampart above the gate. ATACIUS, as you get closer to the gate, the temperature seems to drop significantly. It also seems to be hard to breathe, like something oppressive is pushing on your chest.

CALLIN, it will take 10 rounds (a full turn) to give GRAIAN first aid. (to recover 1hp)

What will you do now?

10 Aug

Can you describe the gates? Are they closed? Does it has a portcullis?

13 Aug

See below!

ROUND 4

10 Aug

Declarations:

ATACIUS "I don't know! It's like it trie to suck the life out of..." the littleling shakes his head dismissing the ominous thoughts. Without taking his gaze from the gate, he reaches into one of his satchels and produces a small mirror.

BELLESH, seeing no further threats, says "Ok, I'm moving up!" to the young cat beside him. Then he sprints towards the gate next to Atacius, and tries to mimic the way he stands flat against the wall. "Why is it so cold over here?" he asks, frowning.

CALLIN: Will continue giving first aid to GRAIAN. "Faith in the LIGHT brother, it shall see us through. Should those creatures come back into view, let me know!"

GRAIAN gives Callin a grim smile, "Indeed, you shall be the first to know my friend."

TAKASHI

Angon

Almanin

Claudia

13 Aug

As BELLESH sprints to the gate, Angon, Almanin and Claudia all shout out in alarm!

The very sun seems to dim a bit for you both near the gate. For those of you still in the group away from the gate of thick metal bars, corroded and pitted, you see something emerge from the tower. It looks gaunt and skeletal, but the very air around it darkens as it burns with silent flames. It wears grimy armor that resembles human or elven armor and it's clothes are in tatters around it. It has a hood where its head would be, but you cannot see any facial features.

It raises a skeletal hand, points at the two at the gate and snarls a voiceless curse that seems to be "felt" more than heard!

(ATACIUS and BELLESH, please make a saving throw vs. Spells)

13 Aug

ATACIUS stops in his tracks at the sight and instinctively raises the small mirror as if it would reflect whatever comes from the creature's bony finger. (rolled 1d20 +3 for a total of 22)

13 Aug

BELLESH frowns at the creature, trying to think of a counterspell that would stop whatever it is trying to do. He's never seen a creature like the hooded figure before, and the flame effect fascinates him even as it terrifies him...

Derek Daniels rolled 1d20 for a total of 12

13 Aug

ATACIUS/BELLESH ONLY - a wave of fear and despair can be felt in the air, palpable against your skin like a scraping of harsh sand. A whistling, screaming sound can be heard, piercing like a shriek of pain and misery. The pounding of your heart can be heard in your ears and your very breath sounds harsh and stertorous.

For a moment, ATACIUS, it's as if everyone in your clan has died in front of you. BELLESH, it is as if you have failed every task, every death that you've witnessed is your complete fault.

And then... it passes on, with ATACIUS shaking it off first and then followed by BELLESH. The sun seems extra bright and the colors extra intense for a moment.

Above, the creature wails in fury!

END OF ROUND!

ROUND 5

15 Aug

DECLARATIONS

ATACIUS Having dismissed the dark thoughts from the sight of the flaming creature, and now with renewed courage, he will sheath his dagger and approach the gate to find a way to open it.

BELLESH shrinks back from the hooded creature, but keeps his eyes on him, trying to stay alert for whatever else it might do. That seemed like some sort of dark power that it had, not a magical spell, but Bellesh will stay ready to use his counterspell techniques if he sees it performing arcane gestures or speaking incantations.

CALLIN: Calls to Claudia "Come see to GRAIAN." CALLIN Then rises and brings his sheild and holy symbol to bear. "I have introductions to the LIGHT to make!" and with that CALLIN starts moving forward toward the howling creature, again calling upon the LIGHT "May the LIGHT bath upon you, and shatter the darkness that binds you together, may it wash away that which has erroded your soul, and tainted your body" Casts turn undead once again.

GRAIAN: "Claudia, I can wait, we have more pressing problems." He will then prepare Magic Missiles.

TAKASHI (Assuming firing the bow along with CALLIN)

Angon - his eyes widen in fear. "That's... a wraith! I had heard of them as legend but this... this seems much worse than what I've read about!"

Almanin - holds to see what happens with CALLIN's turn.

Claudia - Firing bow w/TAKASHI

17 Aug

The wraith has the initiative!

The wraith clenches its fist and darkness seems to grow from it. It stares into the doorways where the skeletons fled. CALLIN's holy symbol flickers in brightness, but continues to shine as brightly as when he turned the skeletons! The wraith wails again, a bone-chilling shriek that is felt especially hard by ATACIUS and BELLESH. They remained heartened, however.

As CALLIN raises his shield and holy symbol, striding forward towards the gate, TAKASHI and Claudia fire their bows! TAKASHI's shot misses its mark, but Claudia's arrow closes towards the creature, but the arrow seems to have no effect on the creature!

"May the LIGHT bath upon you, and shatter the darkness that binds you together, may it wash away that which has erroded your soul, and tainted your body!" CALLIN calls out loudly. The wraith staggers and the darkness/fire nimbus around it seems to lessen...

... but then the horrible wraith stands up and - a far worse sound than its shriek - it starts to laugh! A high-pitched, whistling sound, it is a dreadful mirth.

TAKASHI and Claudia loose more arrows. TAKASHI is sure that his arrow hit the creature in the torso, but the arrow seems to have no effect. GRAIAN speaks in the strange odd words of magick, his hands a blur as he casts his spell. Two azure and white bolts streak from his outstretch fingers towards the creature and they impact the wraith, their magick briefly interacting with the aura, and the wraith hisses!

It unsheathes a sword from its side and points it towards the party in an obvious threat. The fire/darkness aura runs up and down the corroded blade.

Angon calls out again. "If we are not properly prepared, we cannot overcome this foul creature! The good priest seems to not be able to affect it! We should retreat!"

ROUND 6

20 Aug

DECLARATIONS

ATACIUS With no evident way to open the gates, he will put the mirror back in the satchel and look for a place to hide and wait...

BELLESH winces upon hearing the creature's shriek, and hearing Angon's call, he scrambles away from the gate, eyes wide and moaning "woooooah..." as he runs. Seeing Takashi draw his blade, he runs behind the warrior and, hiding behind him, casts the strength spell upon him.

CALLIN: Sweat breaks from Callin's forehead from the battle for the creature soul. "This one carries strength in the Darkness. I will continue to test my Faith in the LIGHT against this creature. Should it accept TAKASHI's challenge. If not we should fall back and come better prepared. I may have a way to attack the creature, but I must pray upon it to be sure."

GRAIAN: "I have no other spells that will harm this creature right now and it would appear only magick can harm it. Takashi, your blade may indeed hurt this fould creature, but getting to it would be hard and I am not sure taking it on by yourself is wise. Angon any thoughts?"

TAKASHI: (to the party) "It seems as if normal weapons have no effect upon this foul creature! Perhaps the blessed blade I carry will be of more use! Alas, I don't see a way to reach it. Let's see if it will respond to a challenge." (to the wraith) "Come down and face the living, cowardly creature of darkness. I'll dispatch you to where you belong, or die trying!" TAKASHI drops his bow, wields his sword and shield, and prepares for what may come.

Angon - Angon sees TAKASHI about to stride forward. "Please my friend, if you are the only one who can fight this thing, I fear for your life! We have no need for this battle, we will seek another way in, or bring more assistance. Do not throw away your life needlessly!"

Almanin

Claudia

20 Aug

"Come down and face the living, cowardly creature of darkness. I'll dispatch you to where you belong, or die trying!" TAKASHI calls out as he strides forwards towards the gatehouse, his shield and sword held up.

"Master, no!" Claudia chokes and goes to follow the warrior, but Almanin catches her by the arm. "No! You mustn't... he's equipped best out of all of us to fight that thing, you are not!" Claudia seems to want to break free, but she remains in the elf's grasp.

BELLESH starts to scramble away from the gate, but seeing TAKASHI draw his blade, he runs up behind the warrior and casts the spell of Strength upon him. TAKASHI feels the spell take hold and has unbelievable strength flowing through his body now! At the same time, Almanin casts a spell that looks a lot like GRAIAN's - two bolts of arcane energy streak from the mage's outstretched fingers towards the creature that shudder from the impacts.

The wraith holds its sword above its head and the flaming darkness around it seems to gather like a tornado around it. That tornado of dark flame flows over the edge of the rampart and through the air down to the ground in front of the warrior, almost as fast as a bird in air or fish in water! The very air around the combatants seems to chill, and the flames are not emitting any heat, rather a coldness that TAKASHI and BELLESH feel all the way to their bones.

The wraith shrieks again and two join in battle. Swords clash on each other, on TAKASHI's shield and on the armor that the creature is wearing. The creature has the initiative and beats TAKASHI immediately backwards a step or two as it presses the attack. For the briefest of moments, TAKASHI's shield is pushed aside and the creature reaches out with a skeletal and touches the warrior.

The touch is bitter cold that seems to burn deep into TAKASHI's soul and he feels something awful happen, as if his very soul and essence are being stolen from him! (see below for mechanics)

TAKASHI's training kicks in and he beats the arm back. Sir Flinigan's sword shines bright as it responds and bites into the torso of the creature, rending it's aura of flame and darkness with light. Along with TAKASHI's now prodigious strength (the equivalent to 18/20%!), it causes a noticable wound! The wraith hisses and screams again!

(TAKASHI, you've taken 1 point of damage, but you have been drained of a level. I went and looked at your charsheet, you've kept track of your hp advances from your roller. You are now at 20hp [28-1-7 (the amount you rolled for 4th level increase). Your XP is now at 6,000.)

ROUND 7

21 Aug

DECLARATIONS

ATACIUS will come out of his hiding spot, creep behind the creature and stab it with his silver dagger.

BELLESH will rip off his backpack and dig into it to pull out the scroll he's written. (If he's within range, he'll use it to cast burning hands on the wraith, otherwise he'll move into position to be ready to cast it on him next round)

CALLIN: "You are blinded by the darkness that consumes you. Let the LIGHT shine the way to glory!" Callin casts LIGHT upon the creatures Eyes in an attempt to blind it during it's hateful attack!

GRAIAN will dig out his scroll of Ignitiion and cast that at the Wriath if he is in range. As he does this he shouts out "If we can get some oil on that thing it would be useful."

TAKASHI reels at the sudden loss of power and confidence, grimacing. "Stand back, this creature will steal your very soul!!! Better that only one should suffer for the good of all, if possible!" With that, TAKASHI renews his attack on the wraith with new found strength (calling upon the power of the d30 to use as a damage die if a hit is made).

Almanin

Angon

Claudia

22 Aug

With a sense of desperation, the party seizes the initiative and goes on the attack!

"You are blinded by the darkness that consumes you. Let the LIGHT shine the way to glory!" Callin casts LIGHT upon the creatures eyes in an attempt to blind it during it's hateful attack! For a moment, the area where the creature's eyes might be glows with a bright light, but the flaming darkness wraps itself around the creature and extinguishes the light!

ATACIUS starts to maneuver behind the wraith, drawing his silver dagger to stab it. BELLESH and GRAIAN begin digging through their packs to get scrolls out. The wraith, perhaps sensing the change in tempo, suddenly shrieks and launches up into the sky! TAKASHI slashes at the creature with his sword again, scoring several hits!

With a detonation that throws you all on your backs, the creature implodes! The nimbus of darkness and flame shrinks into a small orb, then a tiny mote, then it is gone.

The sudden silence is deafening, punctuated only by your breathing (or gasping, if that's what you do)

Claudia groans and crawls over to TAKASHI. "Master... are you alright?!"

END OF COMBAT!

(Note: TAKASHI and CALLIN have used their d30. Since my general rule is "once per game" at the tabletop, I'm going to count an Act as a game for purposes of this mechanic. We'll see how that works. And congratulations! That could have gone very badly for you all, losing only one level for one PC is a pretty good tradeoff, all things considered!)

22 Aug

TAKASHI slowly sheaths his sword, and gathers his discarded bow. Still somewhat stunned from the detonation and previous draining of energy, he turns to Claudia.

TAKASHI: "I have paid a dear price for that, Claudia. It is as if the creature drained my very life force, and it has not returned. I am worried that it never will."

22 Aug

BELLESH tries to catch his breath, looking around slowly. He puts the scroll in one of the wide pockets his coat for easier access in case it's still needed, and looks around to see if he can spot Jellish.

22 Aug

ATACIUS pats TAKASHI in the arm. "Thank you, that was brave..."

22 Aug

TAKASHI nods towards ATACIUS: "Or very foolish, I leave the choice to you, my friend. Though I wonder, how many more abominations like it are on this island?"

22 Aug

GRAIAN puts his scroll back and walks to Takashi, "No, that was brave, we are indeed very lucky and honored to have you as a friend, there are few who are willing to put themselves at risk for others." Pausing he looks at the city walls, "I am sure there are more to deal with around here and I am not sure we are prepared for them right now."

22 Aug

CALLIN recovers from the implosion and walks to TAKASHI. "The LIGHT is indeed strong within you friend. That darkess attempted to corrupt you, and while it has left an internal scar upon you, you have chosen to gather yourself and fight past it. The LIGHT shines upon you TAKASHI. CALLIN will proceed to provide first aid to TAKASHI

22 Aug

@Joseph Schnurr - TAKASHI is down only 1, which "First Aid" would take care of, if you'd like to keep the spell.

22 Aug

Good call! changed the text above! silly level drain!

22 Aug

TAKASHI: "Thank you, brother."

23 Aug

ATACIUS will examine the walls and assess how difficult would be to climb them and where would be the best place to do it.

22 Aug

Upon closer inspection, the wall is far more well built than you have encountered before. Each block seems to fit carefully and closely with the other. If it weren't for the vegetation and lack of cleaning, this would be a gorgeous work of art just in and of itself. The builders and maintainers of Ramathia earned their fame.

It will require a thief's skill (ie., a successful roll) to climb up the tower/gatehouse walls to make it to the ramparts. (Failure may mean a fall at some point).

"Does anyone have a grappling hook?" he asks looking around the group. "If not I'll try to climb it anyway, but be ready to catch me!"

23 Aug

Angon and Almanin search their packs and shake their head. Claudia shakes her head "no" as wel.

23 Aug

GRAIAN shakes his head

"Well then, we'll do it the old way..." he says with a smile. The littleling then proceeds to leave both of his satchels on the ground, gets a rope and approaches the wall. He wipes the sweat from his palms and starts to climb. (Climb 71%)

23 Aug

BELLESH wonders what's happened to Jellish, but he goes to stand near the wall where Atacius is starting to climb. "I'll watch and give you warning if I see anything nasty coming."

23 Aug

The young cat can be found behind a tree, very cautious and seeming to be afraid. Once BELLESH approaches it, it comes out and wraps itself around one of young mage's legs.

24 Aug

BELLESH kneels down and pets him. "Hey there, it's ok now... see? It's gone... TAKASHI destroyed it!"

23 Aug

As ATACIUS begins his ascent, TAKASHI will speak with the others, specifically addressing CALLIN, BELLESH, and GRAIAN.

TAKASHI: "What that creature did to me... it persists and does not seem to be helped by brother CALLIN's healing ministrations. It is as if it's touch has left a dark stain on my soul, hindering me even now. Do you know of any cure for this? Or is it something that will bruden me for the rest of my days?"

24 Aug

BELLESH frowns in thought. "I haven't heard of any magic that can fix a soul. But who knows what the Light magic might be able to do? We saw it heal that one what had the zombie disease, remember?"

27 Aug

CALLIN: "Brother, I do not know, but I will pray upon it. Perhaps then I can provide better guidance. Should I not, then perhaps the Temple within this city may show us some answers.

23 Aug

(The dice are not kind to you today...)

ATACIUS starts to clamber up the wall. It's mostly smooth surface and tightly fitted blocks make the going tough, and where that doesn't help, the grime and moss make it more treacherous!

About ten feet up, ATACIUS's fingers slip and he bounces off the wall as he falls down! Claudia gasps as he hits the ground with a **THUD**. (ATACIUS, you take 5 points of damage.)

23 Aug

ATACIUS: "Ouch!" The littleing gets back on his feet, his pride more hurt than his body, and dust off his clothes. "Maybe we can try to lasso one of the crenellations or throw a spear with a rope so it gets stuck between two of them..."

24 Aug

BELLESH looks back down at the little cat. "I wonder if Jellish can fly, like his parents... maybe then we could ask him to fly up and drop the lasso in the right spot."

27 Aug

ATACIUS will tie on a rope a noose big enough to fit over a merlon. "Do you think he can fly it up there?" he asks BELLESH.

27 Aug

BELLESH bends down to pet Jellish again. "Do you know how to fly, like your parents?" he asks softly.

28 Aug

JELLESH makes a satisfied sound and continues to pace between your legs, rubbing himself on you, and occasionally giving you a hopeful glance.

27 Aug

What would you like to do?

27 Aug

CALLIN: "The Darkness of this place is truely Dark, worse even than that cottage where we faced the necromancer. Now that I have seen what these creatrues are capable of, I must pray to gather the strength I need in which to combat such Darkness."

27 Aug

TAKASHI: "Then should we return to the campsite and tell of what we've found? Perhaps more forces to come along and help us with these dark creatures?"

27 Aug

BELLESH: "I guess so... I'm ok to keep going, but I don't know if Jellish would want to carry up the lasso, or if he can, or if he can even fly, and CALLIN needs to pray. I hate to go now, though... what if there's another one of those... things... guarding here again when we come back?"

27 Aug

CALLIN: "We could choose to stay just a bit back in the jungle if we don't wish to go all the way back to camp. We would need to keep our wits sharp, but it may provide us with a bit more rest then hiking back through this jungle again. Perhaps if you can give me an hour to pray, I think I can carry on. Maybe we can mend the wounded while I pray? Then proceed."

28 Aug

Callin, in AD&D/1e, to recover your prayers/spells, you have to rest for 8 hours, then pray in the morning for your spells.

29 Aug

Ahh I wasn't trying to recover lost spells. I thought I could pray to "change" remaining spell slots. Maybe I'm mistaken. Example I have Speak with Animals, and I want to change that to Spirit Weapon. is that possible?

29 Aug

The way I do it is that a cleric prays in the morning for the prayers/miracles/gifts from their deity. Once granted, they remain throughout the day until the following day, after they rest/sleep for 8 hours. I'm pretty sure that is stock AD&D.

29 Aug

Ok sounds good. Thanks for clarifying!

28 Aug

GRAIAN: "I am not sure more forces will help us with these things, normal weapons do not seem to deal damage, however I would welcome a chance to get new spells. I don't think waiting another day will change anything here."

28 Aug

BELLESH nods. "I could get some better spells ready, too. Ok, let's go back."

28 Aug

ATACIUS: "Back it is then."

29 Aug

Summer 49/50

Your two day trip back to the campsite is uneventful, aside from the heat and scudding clouds that blanket the sky in gray and white. Jellish shows a propensity for curiousity, both at the bags and packs that you all carry, what's in your pockets and other folds of your clothing, and for what is under this rock, that limb, etc. He appears to be wanting to fly, uncurling his wings quite a bit and taking tentative hops, but he doesn't appear ready in a physical sense to fly. Claudia is quite taken with the small winged panther, playing with him and putting him on her shoulder when BELLESH permits.

Upon arriving at the campsite, you see that it has grown a bit, with more sailors present and more tents erected. A familiar, although unpleasant, face is among the elves - Sinyr, accompanied by Hecil and a few Seadreamers have established their presence. Sinyr is in deep conversation with Eraiel when you come to the tent that the Elder shares with Shaiman. All three look up at your entrance and Shaiman comes forward eagerly.

29 Aug

"Welcome back! It is good to see you again! Come, sit, rest, and refresh; we are eager to hear of your trip to the city!" Shaiman says. He beckons to several mats and pillows on the ground near Eraiel and Sinyr.

30 Aug

As everyone gathers, ATACIUS tells the tale of our journey to the city, the encounter with the flying creatures and the battle at the gates.

"We couldn't get into the city. The gates are guarded by flaming undeads, skeletons with bows and wraiths with swords! CALLIN's Light turned away the lesser ones but the wraith flew from the ramparts to challenge TAKASHI, who payed a dear price to defeat it. We dared not to push the odds and decided to come back."

30 Aug

CALLIN: "Yes the darkness is indeed great there. I must pray upon it to gather the strength of the LIGHT in a different way to cast out such darkness."

30 Aug

GRAIAN: "We need to understand as much about these as any of you may know and between us learn the right spells to destroy them."

31 Aug

BELLESH nods. "Right, and does fire hurt them? If so, I should gather up some oil to carry and throw at them when the time is right."

31 Aug

TAKASHI: "When the wraith struck me, it felt as if years were drained from me, and I still feel this loss. Are there any ways to recover from this, or is it something that will be with me until I am called home?"

5 Sep

CALLIN: "I know not of a way to reclaim what has been taken from you. Perhaps in the city with it's vast knowledge we may find the answers we seek. Your Sacrafice was great indeed and I will do all that I can to help fill that loss"

5 Sep

All of the elves sitting near Shaiman listen intently to ATACIUS's telling, and more elves join till nearly the entire camp is gathered around, listening. At ATACIUS's conclusion, a babble of noise erupts around you as various elves begin discussing the news. Eraiel is the only one who seems unfazed by the revelation of the guardians at the gatehouse, but he considers all of you each in turn and there is a calculation in his eyes.

After some time, Shaiman pulls you all aside.

"This is serious news, and grave indeed. It matches what you learned from the humans living here, that it is a city of Death."

He looks at CALLIN. "While we normally fight the unliving with true silver and flame, humans have shown an affinity for somehow pushing them away (or controlling them, but I don't believe you are one to do that.) and I would say that you best are equipped to face them. However, if it does come to arms and fire, we will stand with you. Was this merely a vanguard for more unliving, or a remnant of a long lost force, somehow cursed to stand at their post? Did you find other ways into the city, perhaps near where we saw the molten rock had come from the volcano into the city?"

Angon shakes his head at GRAIAN's question. "Truly, brute force magics seem to work best for elves to defeat them. Fireball and such. Spells that work on the mind never seem to have affected them."

Almanin puts his hand on TAKASHI's shoulder. "I have read of this, that some elven warriors upon facing the unliving felt as if they had been drained of life and indeed, it seemed that their years numbered less than others. I don't believe there is a cure, but perhaps a wisdom to know the possible cost of facing such an abomination. I honor your bravery and your sacrifice and name you a Warrior of warriors. Truly, your bravery was unmatched today."

5 Sep

CALLIN: "Yes I will prepair myself to face such creatures for our next expedition. We did not look for other entrances to the city. As we were wounded, and didn't wish to face a similar onslaught ill prepared. I think it would be best to rest a day and then proceed back well rested and prepared for the undead. "

5 Sep

ATACIUS: "We haven't seen what's beyond the walls and the doors though old seem to still be able to withstand a siege. We will be back, as CALLIN says, and try to climb the walls. We'll need more rope and a couple of hooks, which should be available on a ship. Also your able sailors could make a rope ladder for those not so nimble!"

5 Sep

BELLESH nods. "I'll try to get spells ready what can hurt them most, too. That spell to make Takashi strong seemed to work pretty well, and the magic missiles, and maybe some fire... do any of you elfs have any containers of oil you can spare?"

"Also," he says, reaching down with a smile to pet the small winged cat, "this one seems to want to stay with us. I've been giving him food and water, but... do any of you know anything about them?"

6 Sep

TAKASHI: "I think that attacks from a distance are our best bet, if possible. We have seen the damage that they can do with but a single glancing blow, and I would not wish to see this visited on anyone else."

10 Sep

Angon takes BELLESH's question as permission and he comes up to examine the cat.

"This is a winged panther! How did you get it to follow you?" he says, with an entranced look on his face. "It's lovely!"

He straightens up, cradling the young cat in his arms. It looks rather contented and purrs loudly as he scritches it behind its ears. "Many human wizards have these as pets and familiars, training them as guardians and messengers. For whatever reason, they seem to have an affinity with men-kind. You will have a loyal companion if you are able to train it right."

He hands the panther back to BELLESH.

11 Sep

"I've never read anything about training winged panthers," BELLESH says as he takes him from Angon, "maybe I can find a good book..."

11 Sep

Angon smiles. "Perhaps... if we can ever get into the city. Ramathia was famous for it's libraries..."

Shaiman and Almanin nod in agreement to TAKASHI and ATACIUS. "We have climbing equipment here with us, you are welcome to take what you need. Do you wish more of us to accompany you?"

10 Sep

ATACIUS ponders Shaiman and Almanin words for a moment. "If we manage to climb the walls, secure the gatehouse and open the doors from the inside, it would be good to have a safe place as a base to our forays further into the city. So yes, it would be a good thing if some of you can go with us."

11 Sep

"How many do you think you'll need?" Shaiman inquires.

11 Sep

ATACIUS: "If you could spare ten of your people, we'd be grateful."

11 Sep

"Done!" Shaiman declares. "And a sergeant to lead them as well!"

11 Sep

TAKASHI: "Archers, all of them. If we can take the walls, then it will make for an ideal vantage and defense point as well."

12 Sep

"They will be armed with bows." Shaiman reassures TAKASHI. "Most sailors learn the bow to defend the ships."

10 Sep

GRAIAN looks at Angon and Bellesh, "We should consider which spells to memorize between us. If we ever get an opportunity we should share our spells, giving us more options in the future. However, maybe for now we can pool our spellbooks, while we concentrate for the night."

11 Sep

Almanin and Angon nod in agreement. "A good plan."

Almanin's spellbook

1: Burning Hands, Find Familiar, Hold Portal, Magic Missile, Read Magic

2: Forget

Angon's Spellbook

1: Charm Person, Detect Magic, Feather Fall, Light, Read Magic

2: Rope Trick

11 Sep

BELLESH's eyes light up, and he nods vigorously, then digs into his pack to retrieve his travelling spellbook.

11 Sep

Graian's spells

1. Ignite Read Magic, Magic Missiles, Tensar's Floating Disc, Light, Sleep, Charm Person, Message

2. Stinking Cloud, Invisibility

12 Sep

Bellesh's Travelling Spellbook

Level 1: Read Magic, Charm Person, Magic Missile, Message, Tenser's Floating Disc, Sleep, Burning Hands

Level 2: Strength, Stinking Cloud

12 Sep

CALLIN: Will work to heal the remaining wounded with Cure Light wounds while this day still shines, then will focus on preparing for the next day ( Prayers, gathering supplies, ect )

12 Sep

ATACIUS has 11/18 hp

13 Sep

"What spells will you be preparing?" asks Angon. "I'm loathe to bring my book with me."

13 Sep

BELLESH is thorougly enjoying himself, leafing through the spellbooks with joy and wonder. To Angon's question, he says, "Hmmm... the spell for strength, some magic missiles... Angon, you have a spell to detect magic? That could really be handy if we get into the city..."

16 Sep

Callin will cast cure light wounds on Atacus and Graian. And do his best the mend any others wounds. Hopefully someone can help mend Calling wound as well. After that he will retire to focus upon the journey tomorrow gathering as much strength in the light as he can. Cure light x3, light, spirit weapon x2 for his morning prayers.

17 Sep

CALLIN, if your wounds were bound after combat, that's all the healing you'll be able to get, unless you use a potion, cast CLW on yourself or rest. If not, then we'll just grant you 1hp and you'd be up to 24 out of 27, by my recollection.

17 Sep

Have you all finished your spell selections for the upcoming Act? Angon and Almanin will not bring their spell books along, they fear for the safety of them.

17 Sep

BELLESH's spells: Strength, Magic Missile, Burning Hands. If anyone has any oil they want to use / lend to Bellesh, it would go well with the Burning Hands.

17 Sep

GRAIAN' spells are Magic Missiles x3, Strength, Invisibility

18 Sep

Moving to Act 24 - I'm about to add you all!