The Dark Ages - Southern Seas - Act 11 - Appleton- Fall 18, 56AD

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29 Mar
The Dark Ages - Southern Seas - Act 11 - Appleton- Fall 18, 56AD
The next few days pass quickly in Appleton.
After the services by CALLIN, many of the villagers remain and speak to him, thanking him for his kind words. The general mood is resigned and yet peaceful. It seems that most felt that Sir Flinigan's days were already numbered as his health had been slipping, but to see him reunited with Christine and to hear of the way they passed has made the inevitable have a bit more meaning. On the following day, as CALLIN begins to build his shrine to the Light, he finds that several of the children are gathered, watching him curiously, and a couple of older men, who are not busy in the groves, come to help him gather stones and wood and assemble the shrine. Harold and Jennings both are mostly quiet men, but in various comments, CALLIN, you get the sense that they are questioning you to see what the future holds for Appleton.
For TAKASHI, at seeing the fully armored warrior out and about, most of the villagers smile and seem happy, maybe even relieved(?) to see him. A couple of the children will run behind him and a teenage girl takes to watching him while he practices his drills and weapons skills. After a couple of days, she begins to mimic his movements when she thinks he's not watching, and stops and runs off when he does look at her. He finds out her name is Claudia.
30 Mar
TAKASHI, noticing the young girl watching him and mimicing his drills, will try and figure out where the young girl lives. If she and her parents are willing, he would instruct and train Claudia in the martial arts during his down time here in Appleton.
30 Mar
Claudia's parents, Marc and Ilya, smile and offer to give you dinner. If you go (I'm assuming you do), Claudia would barely look at you, from shyness. Her parents notice the slight differences, you can see that, but they are polite enough not to ask.
"Ah, I hope she has not bothered you!" Marc says when you share your question with him. "We have been seeing her go off and about so much, you would think she inherited her curiosity from a cat! We would love for her to choose something and stick with it, so if you are willing, yes, by all means, she has my permission. Good luck! If you require payment, we have a few coins. Anything would be helpful to give her a direction in life."
30 Mar
TAKASHI: "No payment is necessary, as I may be called away from time to time to attend to other situations. However, I think that Claudia and Appleton would benefit from another capable defender. Of course, it will be good to have a sparring partner myself! So, if you are amenable to this, then I guess it is up to the young lady. I will be in the commons tomorrow morning, and I hope to see you there as well.
And thank you very much for this meal. It is not often that I get to enjoy such a well-made supper."
31 Mar
Claudia looks up with hope and joy at her parents. "Oh thank you!" she exclaims and runs over to hug them both. She then turns to you with a serious look on her face. "I will not let you down... uhh... Teacher... ?"
The next day, as you practice, she is there. Eager, listening, making the mistakes that all students make, but she shows determination even when the lessons are painful. She runs/walks behind you as you patrol around the village. She listens to your lessons on terrain and positions, on tactics and mindfulness. She even manages to learn a bit of meditation, though that comes hardest of all - the stilling of the mind.
31 Mar
TAKASHI: "Balance, focus, and patience are of paramount importance, Claudia. Know yourself, your surrounding, and your weapon. Do not rush in foolishly like a bestial, but use your mind to still yourself and perceive what is around you, and what may be of use.
Most of all, use force only when necessary and threatened with grave harm - for you or the ones you are sworn to protect. This is the path of the warrior, at least where I come from. Not many are capable of truly following it, as it is a hard path with many tests and difficulties thrown in your way. Yet, it can be most rewarding at times, especially when helping others overcome their own trials."
31 Mar
She nods, listening with serious eyes and intent.
"Like if the bandits come to the village, to defeat them like Flinigan would have?" she asks. You can see some grief in her eyes, as the loss of their warrior is still fresh.
You catch a glimpse of TOBIAS watching curiously. Claudia does not see him, or she is choosing to ignore him.
31 Mar
(Also, TOBIAS is trying to remain inconspicious.)
31 Mar
TAKASHI: "In these days, every village, town, and city can benefit from having people who are willing to stand up and fight when they see evil in their midst. But your action must be smart and well planned, not rash and impulsive. Charging into battle alone against 6 bandits is foolhardy, when it is not required."
TAKASHI, noticing TOBIAS out of the corner of his eye, continues speaking with Claudia, giving no sign that he has seen the young boy.
TAKASHI: "It is always good to surround yourself with good people of various talents. All of us are not made to take up the path of the sword, but there are other just as important paths to follow. You have seen CALLIN, who follows the path of righteousness in the Light, and GRAIAN and TOBIAS who pursue dangerous arcane knowledge", (here, TAKASHI shudders visibly), "for the good of others. And then there are those like ATACIUS, who put their own interesting skill set to good use.
What I am trying to say is that for any problem, there may be many different ways to approach the solution. The sword may be quickest, but it is not always right nor the best. If all we have is a hammer, then all of our problems appear to be nails, which is certainly not the case."
1 Apr
TOBIAS winces at Takashi's "pursue dangerous arcane knowledge" line, and watches to see how Claudia responds to it.
1 Apr
Claudia listens intently and nods, but doesn't say anything in particular. She picks up her wooden sword again and begins to repeat the moves you've shown her.
This would continue as long as you like, and repeat each day (up to the 28th.) In that short of time, you can see she is a fast study and has some dexterity and intelligence. She might not be the strongest warrior, but she would, in time, be quick, nimble and very difficult to beat, as she seems to be able to anticipate moves and learns quickly.
1 Apr
Excellent. TAKASHI is pleased with her progress, and lets her know. "You have done very well in the short time you have trained. We will continue this as long as I am here. However, if I do need to travel away from Appleton, I expect you to continue your training in my absense."
GRAIAN and ATACIUS uncover a small chest exactly where it should be. It looks like it had been underground for many years, but the two vellum scrolls within can still be unrolled. GRAIAN finds that he needs to cast read magic to view the delicate arcane script is on the scroll. Upon doing so, he finds that it is a spell he has never heard of - ignite! He can attempt to comprehend it so that he can copy it to his spellbook, but the activity will consume one of the two precious scrolls.
While GRAIAN is admiring his new scrolls, ATACIUS is delighted to find a smaller velvet bag with 5 glistening gems inside. A couple of them look to be very valuable, to ATACIUS's eye.
30 Mar
ATACIUS: can he estimate the value of the gems or he need to see a jeweler? Is there one in Skalfier or maybe in the Merchant's Guild?
31 Mar
He knows they are valuable, perhaps hundreds of gold crowns. It's quite a find. There probably is a jeweler in Skalfier.
TOBIAS, Enid thanks you for your generosity, but "Good master, I know how much this grove makes and I know that you do not as yet have a source of income. I am quite content and well taken care of. When you have come into your own and made your way, then we can discuss it." She says so in that "Enid-voice" that brooks no dissent.
29 Mar
TOBIAS: Okay, Enid. I will try to find that other income, though.
The other adult and teen villagers all at some point come to TOBIAS to express their sadness and grief. They are quite happy that you seem to have made such "kind and strong" friends and one of the older women admits that she hasn't felt "this safe" in years. It's clear that they are happy that you will keep the manor and that Enid remains. As much as the villagers loved Sir Flinigan, they also value consistency and little change, and knowing that not much has changed helps them to feel safe.
TOBIAS, you find that many of Christine's old inks still work, and she even had a small book that will serve as a spell book. You'll need to replace the inks though. It will cost 25 gold crowns per level, per spell, to create the new book. You may get those supplies off of GRAIAN, but the cost will have to come out of someone's pocket.
30 Mar
If Sir Flinigan had some savings I can dip into to buy the inks, I will; otherwise I'll hold off for now. I already owe GRAIAN 40 gold crowns and I don't want to borrow any more.
30 Mar
(OOC: The cost is an abstraction of going to town, buying the inks, buying the pens, etc. You don't actually buy them now, but the deduction of gold represents the cost at some point. For special spells, you might have to go find the inks and things, but for these ordinary spells, this is good enough.
To answer your other question, Enid would have the purse and will tell you that are 110 gold crowns currently in it.)
30 Mar
(Ok. That's enough to write 4 spells into a travelling book, but I'll need to find a way quickly to replenish those funds and pay back Graian.)
31 Mar
Well, treasure has been found...
1 Apr
TOBIAS: Most of the rest of the day, he would try to talk to Enid and his other fellow townsfolk about possible ways to make the village better, how to protect the apple crop from the bad weather, and what to do about the bandits. It's not the easiest thing for him to do, but he rewards himself at night by reading or scribing some more pages into his new book.
Most of the villagers are simply happy with the status quo, although having your friends around is proving nice to smooth over the loss of Sir Flinigan. You find that most of them are very much set in their ways, to how to tend the trees, to how to keep the village "nice and quiet in these hard times." (which is a common euphemism for The Doom - "these hard times"). They all agree that having a warrior or two around, or even maybe some of the villagers trained in some basic self defense would be a good idea, against the bandits.
1 Apr
Good to know. TOBIAS wouldn't be pushing for any major changes beyond CALLIN's shrine and TAKASHI's training. He figures it's good to go around and see if there are any problems that need fixing though, that's what Sir Flinigan always seemed to do... When GRAIAN and ATACIUS get back, he's going to ask all his friends to get together for dinner and talk, he needs to find a way to get some gold to pay his debts and for future expenses, whether it's from dealing with the bandits, or going back to Athenum...
----------------------
After a couple of days (Fall 20), a cold spell comes and there is sleet and freezing rain. The villagers work hard to gather in more apples and tongues wag over the possibility of a fast and hard winter, with the strange snows and weather seen.
31 Mar
GRAIAN decides there is little that he can do here for now and decides to return to Skalfier to talk to his friend at the Conclave and see how things are progressing. He knows there is not a lot of good news to tell, but at least he knows there is more to be discovered. Seeking out Atacius he asks him if he would also like to go.
Villagers who had made the journey to Skalfier return. The town is still recovering from the sudden snow and avalance that destroyed the Westedge neighborhood, and the bells have been tolling almost constantly over funerals and services. One of the villagers remarks that the sermons at the Temple have been somber and full of warnings and admonitions to keep the faith without sin or the Doom would grow much worse.
After ten days of work (Fall 28), the shrine will be complete. The same villager who had gone to the Skalfier Temple says that CALLIN's faith and uplifting messages seem so different than what is coming from the Temple. He says that the other villagers have noticed and have given CALLIN the nickname of "Light Bringer."
31 Mar
CALLIN: Enjoying the idea of bringing the LIGHT to the people of Appleton, his work has put a spring in his step a bit, and honest to goodness hard work seems to put a smile on his face. Talking with Harold and Jennings as quiet as they may be provide him a bit of insight as to the general tamber of the people of Appleton...
"I can say this good fellows, I will do what I can to help those to the LIGHT who wish to follow. I will protect those from the Darkness that attempts to threaten us all. And I will stand a vigil against that which stands against us. This shrine we are building is a testament to what I hold dear. What I hope to provide to the people of Appleton. A peice of Hope, a peice of shelter, a beacon of Light"
31 Mar
Both of the men look at each other and back at CALLIN. Harold chuckles. "Ye be quite the bright one today... me'thinks ye been drinkin' o' some water we need to find!" But they seem cheered by your words all the same, despite themselves.
31 Mar
GRAIAN and ATACIUS - Fall 20
Without the cow slowing you down, the trip back to Skalfier is much quicker. Leaving in early morning, you arrive without incident by late afternoon.
As described by the villagers, Skalfier is still recovering from the disaster of the snow. The sounds of building can be heard and there is a pile of debris a short distance to the north and west of the city, beyond the hill that the town lies on. Once at the gate, you are greeted by stable boys who offer to stable the horses for only 5 silver crowns a day - "It's the law, can't bring horses into the city unless on official business!" one of them says.
31 Mar
GRAIAN looks at them "My, things have changed, when I was here not 10 days ago it was a Gold piece for 10 days," he digs through his pouch to find the disc
31 Mar
When you pulled the horses out early, you would have received a refund for days unused and turned the discs in to the stableboy holding your horses at the gate.
"Many folks 'ave their horses here for helpin' w' the rescue, sirrah!" the boy responds cheekily. "Space at a premium! Do ye want the stable or not?"
31 Mar
GRAIAN mutters something to himself, no-one can make it out but the sentiment is clear, "Very well, we will take the stables." He dismounts and hands over the money.
1 Apr
ATACIUS does the same, dismounts, pay a gold crown and pouches the disc.
1 Apr
"Thank ye, kind sirs!" the stableboy notes the amounts (GRAIAN 1 day, ATACIUS 2 days) in a small leather notebook and takes both horses by the reins and moves off with them.
You pass through the gates unhindered. The foot traffic seems normal and you can see that a lot of people are still moving back and forth from the Westedge area in help of repairs and recovery. There are a few more soldiers than normal, perhaps militia or King's Army troops.
The Conclave is still in session when you arrive at the Inn, behind closed doors. The bar is open. There is light traffic, a few customers.
1 Apr
(Do we still have our rooms at the Inn?)
1 Apr
You paid for a tenday on Fall 11. So you have the room till tomorrow morning. If you ask, the rate is still 1 gold crown a day, and he's charging a ten-day block. Since the only allowed new guests are related to the Conclave.
4 Apr
GRAIAN turns to Atacius as they enter the foyer "I will go to the Concalve and see what the latest news is, hopefully they have not progressed to making plans for war. Are you going to be here later, we could catch up on events this evening?"
7 Apr
ATACIUS: "Will meet you later, yes."
He will wait until GRAIAN goes into the Conclave and ask the man at the front desk if Tarn Cane is stil staying here.
7 Apr
The Innkeeper looks at you strangely. "Yes... we have a guest of that name. Shall I send for him?"
8 Apr
ATACIUS: "No need, thanks." and he leaves for the Merchant's Guild.
After that he'll go to the Merchant's Guild to find a jeweler to appraise the gems. Then go to Notebana's to tell him our recent findings.
7 Apr
The Merchants Guild clerk that you speak to gives you a few names of jewelers to see.
Notebana is not at his home and Jeseves declines to say where he is at "but Marster will be back in a few days, if you'd like to leave a message."
8 Apr
ATACIUS: "Just tell him that Atacius Lightfoot came to visit, that he has settled in Appleton and has made some findings in the area that might be of his interest."
9 Apr
Jeseves nods and jots down the information. "I will make sure he gets it."
(whoops! ;> )
12 Apr
ATACIUS will return to the inn after his errands and look for GRAIAN.
4 Apr
A quiet knock and the door is opened to the scowling face of the same elf who has answered the door other times. He lifts his scowl for you and nods cordially. "Welcome, brother. You may join the other non-voting ships."
"GRAIAN of Meliamne has joined us." he says a bit more loudly in announcement.
The scene is of two groups at either end of the room are talking amongst themselves, but not between the groups. The non-voting members are clustered in the middle, but even there is a division between them. One group is visibly larger than the other group, the smaller group being of those with Foamfollower clan, those who want to go to Ramathia. After awhile, you see Shaiman discretely motion to you to wait a moment.
He rings a small bell. "We will adjourn till after the mid-day meal." he announces. The Seadreamers and those aligned (the larger group) quickly leave the conference room, upon which Shaiman approaches you.
"So GRAIAN, you are indeed well-come. Tell me, have you news of your research into Ramathia?"
5 Apr
GRAIAN: "There is much to tell, but I am afraid it does not help our cause right now.We did find a way into the area of the library but did not have chance to explore everywhere. We set free a worthy pair of lives but I fear if we do not return and continue the quest it will have been in vain, the other of our Clan seem ready for war and many will die, leaving the way open for the Dark Ones. Humans and Elves need to unite, can they not see this? Do you have anything that can sway this decision, I see the Seadreamers are winning the hearts of the masses. We are searching for our Home, surely destruction of another's does not help us?"
5 Apr
Shaiman sighs and runs his hand through his hair.
"I had hoped you would bring good news, Graian. As you can see, we are still deadlocked, although slowly, Seadreamer gains the votes needed to abandon the Search and turn to war. Soon, I fear, without some sort of proof that Ramathia would give us good clues, they will turn this Conclave into a war council. The only thing I have is empty hope, and that does not help my position. Do you think you can return to this library and search it? Did you find a way in? That is what vexed the previous search, they could not find a way in."
5 Apr
"Yes, we did find the way in and can return to search further. Canyou use this gain us more time? I do not know what we will find in there but we have moved a little closer to the truth."
5 Apr
"As much as I can." Shaiman says ruefully. "I fear, though, by the next ten to fifteen dawns, it will be too late."
5 Apr
GRAIAN considers this news and worry spreads across his face "Is there anyone in the Seadreamer's camp who may be willing to listen to my news and holds sway over their actions?"
5 Apr
"I am doubtful. They will not listen to me, highly placed in the Foamfollower crew. Me!" Shaiman says ruefully.
6 Apr
GRAIAN shakes his head "Then we must return as quickly as possible to search more. Do your best my friend to stall these warmongers."
6 Apr
Shaiman smiles wanly. "I can do little else. For if they succeed, it would mean the ruin for us. I will look to the Seas and Stars for hope for your search. Go quickly, my friend!"
7 Apr
GRAIAN nods goodbye and leaves the room to look for the inn-keeper and secure his room for the future.
7 Apr
You can extend your room for another tenday period for ten gold crowns, or twenty days for eighteen gold crowns. (Whichever you pick, just deduct from your CRS, and let me know what you would like to do next. I'll assume you know where ATACIUS went.)
8 Apr
GRAIAN hands over 10GP and thanks the Inn-keeper. He heads to the bar and finds an open seat at a table, motioning ot the server he orders an ale and waits for Atacius.
12 Apr
By the time you both are together again, you hear the cryers calling First Dog's Watch, 2 bells. The bar is starting to fill with customers for the evening meal.
13 Apr
ATACIUS will join GRAIAN for the evening meal at the inn. He'll try to get a table where he can see who's coming into the bar and will pay for the meal (with wine).
"Ah, my friend, we have a little fortune here." he whispers to the elf. "The gems we found will help us and the village if put to good use."
14 Apr
GRAIAN order his meal and more ale "Ah, I wish that would solve our problems. The warmongers within my peopel are gaining strength, if we do not quickly find something about the history of my people in this land there will be bloodshed and those that survive will be at the mercy of the dark forces. We need to return to Appleton, collect the others and continue exploring the dungeon."
19 Apr
ATACIUS face sombers at the Elf's comments. "As if things are not bad already, and the Elves are talking about war. You're right we must return to Appleton. Do you think of anything we can buy here we might need there?"
19 Apr
GRAIAN thinks for a moment, "I have some spell components to replace, but other than that I don't have anything else, we have food at Appleton. I will be able to get everything in the morning, then if you are finished with your business we can return to Appleton. I have extended my room here for another 10 days so I have access to come and go."
20 Apr
ATACIUS nods in agreement. "I´ll have something to get too and then we can be on our way."
22 Apr
GRAIAN finishes his meal and gets up, "Good night my friend, I will see you in the morning, I will be ready to leave by 4 bells Forenoon. You are welcome to stay here with me, the room is quite large."
22 Apr
(Are you also going to allow ATACIUS to stay with you, or is he going to the common room? *chuckle*)
22 Apr
Ah, I thought he had a room there, but he doesn't he has the note.
23 Apr
(Yep. So gettin' snuggly with the littleling, or sending him off to the commons? *chuckle*)
25 Apr
ATACIUS and GRAIAN, since it looks like your "timing" will bring you back to Appleton on Fall 21. I am going to backdate the others' visit to the farm on Fall 21, to have you all available to go back to Skalfier for the healing and such. I will start it below.
GRAIAN, you would find the spell components after "shopping" a bit at the various alchemists and other odd shops.
25 Apr
TAKASHI and Claudia - Fall 21 - Weather is cooling off and crisp, much like fall should be. No snow or strange weather.
(NOTE THE BACKDATE so that we can fit the differences in time together.)
On this day, while traveling around the village, Claudia speaks for the first time without being spoken to.
"Teacher? There is an old farmhouse close to here. There's... well... there's something you might want to see. Nobody will go there because of what is there, but you might want to see it. And ... I feel safer going there with you than when I go by myself and... " she quickly puts her hand to her mouth, realizing she slipped in talking about something she shouldn't have.
(TOBIAS - if you'd want to follow, or be a part of this, I have no problem with that. CALLIN, it's up to you too, should you want to take this moment to take a break. The Shrine wouldn't be finished until the next day. No push, and don't feel like you have to, but didn't want the thing with GRAIAN and ATACIUS to stretch on too long without you guys having something to do. :> )
1 Apr
TOBIAS would probably be nearby. At this point, he probably regularly tries to take some time to sit somewhere and watch Claudia's training (though he would probably bring a book and pretend to be reading it.) Most of the rest of the day, he would try to talk to Enid and his other fellow townsfolk about possible ways to make the village better, how to protect the apple crop from the bad weather, and what to do about the bandits. It's not the easiest thing for him to do, but he rewards himself at night by reading or scribing some more pages into his new book.
1 Apr
CALLIN will go if TAKASHI asks him to join him. Otherwise he will most likely not know of this since he is working on the Shrine. I'm ok either way....
4 Apr
TAKASHI: "Speak freely, Claudia. If a student can not speak to and ask questions of her teacher, then I would question the pedigree of the teacher. I am sure that TOBIAS would also wish to know more of the places around Appleton, as the responsibility of this village now rests squarely on his young shoulders.
If there is something to investiage, we can gather a few people together to help - I imagine that CALLIN would not be pleased if we left him here while we left to investiage something. In fact, Claudia, why don't you ask CALLIN to take a break in his labors for a few minutes as you tell us about this farmhouse."
4 Apr
She nods.
"Sir Flinigan said to stay away, that it was dangerous. So... ummm... one day I was out and it started raining and well, I had to go get in from the rain, so I went there... and ... well... umm... there was a body outside! And when I told Da about it, and Sir Flinigan, they were both really mad! They said to never go back there, because I would die! That it was a cursed place. But... it doesn't seem cursed! It seems sad, why leave a body there outside? And who knows what might be inside!? So... umm... maybe you could go? Just in case.... " and she drops her voice to an almost comical whisper "a curse is really there?"
She jumps up and runs past the sitting TOBIAS to go fetch CALLIN with a "Takashiwantedmetoaskyoutotakeabreakandcomewithhimandme." very quickly and runs back.
Once CALLIN joins the group, she'll repeat her story. A little more bravely this time. And ends with a "Are you going to tell Da?"
4 Apr
CALLIN: "Child there are places that are indeed infested with Darkness, and you should heed the advice of your elders. Wisdom has done them well. However, I for one will not allow the Darkness to infest this place. We should seek it out and let the LIGHT shine down upon it!" He then looks over to TAKASHI. "I can be ready whenever you wish the leave. There is no point in creating a shrine of worship if we simply use it to cower away from the Darkness."
4 Apr
Claudia looks at CALLIN with wide eyes. "Are all priests like you? I've never met a priest of the Light before."
4 Apr
CALLIN: "Priests like everyone else, are as different as an individual grain of sand. I do hope that most priests of the LIGHT share my drive and passion to spread the Light and stand against the Darkness. Although I don't think many of them have good friends to stand with them as I do!"
4 Apr
TOBIAS: "You said there was... a body? Sir Flinigan never told me.... I should go too, I guess, to see what's going on..."
4 Apr
Claudia smiles at CALLIN's word. "Glad you're going!"
She looks at TOBIAS. "Yes, a body. A dead person, I guess. I never got close enough to look. It's probably gone by now, I dunno. Sure, the more the merrier! And Master TAKASHI's been training me, so I can handle myself even if it is haunted!" she says with some bravado. While holding onto her wooden sword.
4 Apr
TOBIAS brushes back some of his hair to look at her, smiling and nodding two little nods. Then something seems to dawn on him, and, looking up worriedly to Takashi and Callin he says, "But, if it's like in Athenum..."
4 Apr
TAKASHI: "Perhaps it would not be a bad idea to at least investigate this area, if for no other reason than to gather more information to plan a return at a later date, when ATACIUS and GRAIAN return. How far away is this farmhouse, Claudia?
And I do not mind you coming along with us, as you will need to see the difference between training and true combat. Our opponents rarely stay their blades when we make a mistake. However, it would not be responsible for me to have you engage in any kind of combat without adequate protection of some sort. That would necessitate a trip to Skalfier, however. Hmmmm.
If we investigate, I must insist that you let father CALLIN and I proceed up front. You and TOBIAS can watch the rear. Above all else, I need to know that you will not rush in to any situation, and that you will listen to me. Father CALLIN and TOBIAS, does this sound like a wise plan of action to you both?
4 Apr
TOBIAS: "Yes, Master Takashi."
4 Apr
CALLIN: "Yes TAKASHI, a sound plan."
4 Apr
Claudia nods, a bit wideyed, but you can see she'll obey.
As for your Dad, Claudia. I will not tell him... you will. Concealment leaves room for darkness to fester. Better to be honest with those you love, plus it will show him that you responsibly told those who can help about an issue, without attempting to solve it on your own."
4 Apr
She opens and closes her mouth... "Yes, Master. I will do so." She lets out a big sigh of anxiety and dread.
"It is not far, maybe a two hour walk south and a bit east. If you are ready, we can go and be there before midday!"
4 Apr
CALLIN: "Let me let the small group helping me know I must depart for the day. Then I shall pray for a safe journey and prepare for what lies ahead." (Callin will prepare cure light wounds, bless, and Detect evil)
CALLIN pauses...
"This should give you ample time to discuss this with your father." CALLIN smiles at TAKASHI and then excuses himself to prepare. He will inform those that were helping him with the shrine that he must go with TAKASHI for the day, and that they may enjoy a day of rest. Unless they wish to continue, then he will leave them to their own devices. He will then pray for a time in the Shrine, gathering the Light as he can around him, the prepare him and those that go with him to face whatever darkness lies in their path.
5 Apr
An hour later and TAKASHI, CALLIN, TOBIAS and Claudia are ready to go. Claudia looks thoroughly chastened, but there is a defiant glint in her eyes as she watches CALLIN and TAKASHI gear up.
5 Apr
TAKASHI: "One should never walk into danger with a wooden sword, Claudia. I don't have a spare sword, but this battle axe has traveled with me from the eastern provinces, and I now trust it into your hands. I hope that it will prove to be as faithful in your hands as it was in mine."
She points to the south/southeast and you all set off.
A couple of hours pass, you travel past single homes and small huts that have obviously been abandoned and then you see a small cluster of buildings - what appears to be the remains of a two story farmhouse and barns or out buildings. She stops and points to it. "It's there. If you go towards the house, you'll see it in front."
5 Apr
TOBIAS hangs back and waits for Takashi and Callin to take the lead, as they asked.
5 Apr
TAKASHI: "Let's first circle the building to get an idea of the surroundings, see all of the possible exits from the farmhouse, and gather as much information as possible. Then we can move in closer.
What is this area called, Claudia? Do you know why it has been abandoned?"
5 Apr
(OOC: See the roll20 page for a map. I have you at a starting point. )
The grass is about waist high. The farmhouse (on the right) looks in bad shape, part of the 2nd story has caved in, with the roof open. The windows facing you are broken. The doors on the other outbuildings/barns are closed. The largest barn's roof is also caved in at the middle.
"Most of the single farms are abandoned around us. I guess 'cause of bandits or they died or moved away." she says. "Da and Sir Flinigan said to stay away from all of those kinds of buildings and when they heard about the body here, they really got upset and said to never go back. They didn't say why!"
5 Apr
CALLIN: "Agreed TAKASHI. CLAUDIA - Where did you see the body so we have a point of reference?"
5 Apr
She points to an area between the farmhouse and the other buildings. "Around there."
5 Apr
CALLIN: nods to CLAUDIA "Thank you, now lets circle the building as TAKASHI said" CALLIN will keep his wits about him and look for anything out of the ordinary.
5 Apr
As they're getting started, TOBIAS leans towards Claudia and whispers, "If your Da's giving you trouble, let me know."
5 Apr
Claudia looks at TOBIAS with a frown. "What do you mean? Why would you want to know?"
5 Apr
TOBIAS (turning his attention back to the farmhouse ahead): "Let's talk about it later."
5 Apr
(Which direction, to the right and up, or to the left and up?)
5 Apr
CALLIN: (I would guess counter clockwise....heading up by the farmhouse first....so to the right and up.. I moved my token to represent the way we are circling)
5 Apr
You are now at the "east" of the building. The farmhouse looks like it might have burned at some point, and the second floor has definitely been open to the elements for awhile. The windows are broken and it looks dark inside. There is no movement and no indication that it has been inhabited for a long time, maybe decades.
(PCs moved to their current position on the Roll20 map)
5 Apr
CALLIN: Will continue to scan the area. Then glance to TAKASHI "Should we circle the entire area with all the structures, or look inside the farmhouse?"
5 Apr
You don't see anything in the tall grass. There are bits of debris and perhaps implements or tools that are lying rusting in the ground here and there, as you step over them.
5 Apr
TAKASHI: "Let's look inside the farmhouse, and then go outwards as possible."
TAKASHI will draw Flinnigan's sword and approach the farmhouse, to where Claudia pointed to earlier.
5 Apr
TOBIAS grimaces a little at the sight of the sword, remembering Flinigan wielding it. He draws his silver dagger out, trying to look confident.
5 Apr
Coming around the northwestern edge of the farmhouse, you see the front door, or what remains of it, in a nook of the building.
Laying in the grass, just barely seen, is indeed a body. Feet towards you, head towards the southwest. The clothing appears tattered and weatherbeaten, but from what you can see, the body itself appears undecayed and undisturbed.
Claudia lets out a small gasp. "That's it... just where I saw it... a few seasons ago!"
6 Apr
CALLIN will draw out his shield and hammer. And upon hearing the words of Claudia stating she saw the body seasons ago.... "Hold! This may be the work of darkness if a body is not allowed to pass to the Light. Let me check for the darkness." WIth that CALLIN will begin a prayer to Detect Evil. "May the LIGHT guide my sight to find and root out all darkness. May it never fade or waiver. May it always be bright and true." THEN CALLIN will examine the body and the farmhouse around them, looking for signs of the Darkness
6 Apr
TAKASHI: "That is certainly not... natural."
6 Apr
CALLIN, upon casting your "Detect" spell, you sense nothing of Chaos or inimicable against Law and the Light... but the body also doesn't seem to be of undead in nature. You've seen (and smelled) zombies and this is not it.
The body is lying face down. I'm not going to assume how you examine the body or farmhouse, but from where you're standing, you don't pick anything up that would indicate necromancy by a chaos-aligned being or someone with intent of harm or malice towards you.
Claudia nods wordlessly to TAKASHI. Interestingly, you see that she has the wooden sword in her hands, and not the axe.
6 Apr
TAKASHI: "Claudia, I think that the axe might be more useful today, instead of the training sword. Is everything ok?"
6 Apr
"Yes Master.. the axe... well, the sword feels better. I can feel it better." she says. "I'll be OK!" She tightens her grip on the wooden sword, as if to reinforce her determination.
6 Apr
CALLIN: "From what I can see, this body is not wrapped in the stench of darkness, nor does it seem to be an acursed death walker. But we should still be cautious! Should we proceed to the body TAKASHI?" Then CALLIN mutters under his breath..."I would enjoy the littleones quick eyes right about now"
7 Apr
TAKASHI: "Aye, that is probably wise. Let's see what this fallen body might be able to tell us. Claudia and TOBIAS, please stay back a ways just in case, as neither of you have any protective armor. CALL, shall we?"
TAKASHI will approach the body carefully, scanning the area for any movement, and also watching his footing for any irregularities (trip wires, turned earth, etc.)
Assuming he and CALLIN approach the body together, he will closely examine the body without touching it.
7 Apr
Claudia nods and takes up a defensive position next to TOBIAS, looking around nervously. "Be careful, Master!" she calls out.
TAKASHI and CALLIN, the body is laying sprawled on its face. You don't see any signs of a trap or anything obvious. The grass has grown around the body and nearly covering it, and the clothes have all but rotted off... but the flesh appears intact, and almost as if that person just died. The hair is cut short, but from this angle, and with the grass, it is difficult to see if it's a man or woman.
7 Apr
TAKASHI: "What do you say, CALLIN? Shall we attempt to roll over the body? I could use the haft of my axe to do the job, and hopefully avoid touching the body. Perhaps I could do that at the torso, and you could attempt something similar down by the upper legs?"
7 Apr
"Do you want your axe back, Master?" Claudia inquires.
7 Apr
TAKASHI: "Yes, just for a second or two, Claudia. I would hate to break Sir Flinigan's blade on such an ignoble task."
7 Apr
She walks up to TAKASHI, hands him the axe and backs away carefully.
7 Apr
CALLIN: "YEs I can use my Hammer to lever the legs."
7 Apr
TAKASHI and CALLIN both use their hafted weapons to lift and turn the body over. The grass has grown thick enough that once done, it's as if lifting a rock out of grass. There is bare dirt and an outline where the body once laid. The body itself is caked with dirt on the front. It appears to be a woman, maybe middle-aged. Her general appearance is as if she recently died, as she has not decomposed at all.
And then her eyes open and look right at both of you, and she lunges for your legs with a incoherent snarl.
Claudia lets out a scream.
(You have time for a single action before we go into combat rounds.)
7 Apr
CALLIN will swing his shield in front and try to drop to a crouch attempting to block the creature from getting to TAKASHI or CALLIN
7 Apr
TOBIAS will let out a high-pitched yelp, jumping back a step, his hands raising almost reflexively to begin casting his most familiar spell...
7 Apr
TAKASHI will drop the axe and draw Flinnigan's revenge in preperation for battle.
8 Apr
Round 1:
8 Apr
Round 2:
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi -
Callin -
Tobias -
Claudia -
INITIATIVE:
PCs:
Monsters:
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
(Initiative order)
1st movement phase:
(Initiative order)
2nd missile/spell phase:
(Initiative order)
2nd movement phase:
(Reverse Initiative order)
3rd missile/spell phase:
(Initiative order)
Melee:
(Initiative order)
A "body", lying on the ground in front of an abandoned farmhouse, has suddenly come to life, snarling, and is grabbing at the legs of TAKASHI and CALLIN!
As the PCs react, they hear a thudding and slamming noise start within the farmhouse, near the door that leads in/out! And Claudia points to a "body" that has suddenly risen between the two buildings to the southwest!
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - TAKASHI will hack at the prone and snarling body with Flinnigan's vengeance, attempting to finish off this hellion as quickly as possible.
Callin - CALLIN will slam his Hammer down on the head of this foul creature. Shouting "TOBIAS, focus your energy on the other one, Protect our flank!"
Tobias - Tobias will hold his action, standing ready to cast Charm Person on the horrible woman and will yell at her, "Stop trying to hurt us!"
Claudia - Is in a protective, defensive stance, watching what is going on with the farmhouse since they are hearing noise from it.
7 Apr
(It sounds like Callin & Takashi could lose their action if they wait for me to cast my spell and it fails. That being the case, Tobias will hold his action, standing ready to cast his spell.)
7 Apr
I figured that if it worked, they wouldn't want to bash her head in. :) So that's why I asked. If you'd rather they go ahead with the head bashing bit, then we'll move on.
Or not, seeing CALLIN's note below. What do you want to do, gentlemen? :)
7 Apr
I can see TOBIAS hesitating a bit in the face of the more experienced travellers, especially after what Callin told him. He'll hold action, but he'll be ready to cast that spell as described above, especially if one of them gets closer to him and Claudia.
7 Apr
(I think CALLIN would go forward and instead tell TOBIAS to protect our flank from the other body)
INITIATIVE:
PCs: Joseph Schnurr rolled 1d6 for a total of 3
Monsters: Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 4
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
No spells or missiles being shot.
1st movement phase:
A figure between the two buildings to your southwest is standing up! (You should see it now on the Roll20 map)
The door that leads in/out of the dilapidated farmhouse is shaking and rattling.
PCs are not moving
2nd missile/spell phase:
No spells or missiles being shot.
2nd movement phase:
PCs are not moving
The figure between the two buildings has finished standing up! It might be a man or woman, but it also is half naked with decayed clothes.
The door shatters open and you see a third figure in the doorway! It looks like a woman, similarly dressed in tattered rags.
3rd missile/spell phase:
No spells or missiles being shot.
Melee phase:
The feral-acting woman claws with her hands at TAKASHI's legs (Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 4, 9 on 2d20 ) but is unable to do more than claw at his armor while he moves away and around her, both he and CALLIN trying to avoid the woman and still strike at her. She also bites at TAKASHI's legs (Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d20 for a total of 16 ) - he could almost feel her fetid breath as her teeth gnaw at him. As TAKASHI dances out of the way of the crawling, thrashing woman, he is unable to land any blows, but CALLIN takes advantage of the situation and smashes his hammer into her several times. She turns and looks at him and hisses in a decidedly inhuman voice.
(CALLIN and TAKASHI, roll to hit and go ahead and do damage too, just in case)
CALLIN Attacks: rolled 1d20 +1 for a total of 19, Damage: rolled 1d6 +1 for a total of 2
TAKASHI Attacks:  rolled 1d20 for a total of 7, +1 for fighter level, +?? for sword, +?? for opponent prone?
END OF ROUND.
11 Apr
Round 2:
A bizarre set of circumstances is confronting the party! In investigating the farmhouse and a "body", it seems to have come alive and is trying to attack TAKASHI in a frenzy, trying to claw and bite him. Both he and CALLIN are attacking it.
A second figure has arisen from the grasses between two of the out-buildings to the southwest, and the door to the farmhouse has been smashed open by a third figure, also a woman! All are dressed in rotted clothes and all have feral looks on their faces!
Something is tickling CALLIN's memory, something he might have heard someone talk about before about people like these...
(Map: https://app.roll20.net/editor/setcampaign/607092)
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - Will move to flank the prone woman and get behind her, with CALLIN on the other side. He'll then attempt to slice her in twain.
Callin - "Crawl back into the darkness vile creature! You are not welcome in the LIGHT!" CALLIN will then proceed to rain down blows with his hammer on the creature!
Tobias - Is worried about Claudia, but tries to keep his concentration. He casts the Charm Person spell on the woman that smashed her way out of the farmhouse.
Claudia - Steps in front of TOBIAS and brandishes her sword at the figure in the farmhouse. "TOBIAS! Stay behind me!" she says.
INITIATIVE:
PCs: Derek Daniels rolled 1d6 for a total of 1
Monsters: Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 6
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
TOBIAS casts Charm Person at the woman standing the farmhouse door. It seems to have some effect as the woman lurches to a halt, stares intently at him, and then starts to walk towards him, but at a calm pace. The rictus look on her face hasn't gone away, but she's no longer snarling and hissing like the one attacking TAKASHI and CALLIN.
"TOBIAS!" Claudia yells worriedly. "What do I do? What did you do?" She grips the wooden sword resolutely, and stands ready to attack.
1st movement phase:
The first woman continues to crawl and move at TAKASHI and CALLIN. (I'm going to rule that at melee, there will be a random chance of flank, rear, or frontal attack. She's twisting and moving. Say 1 for one of you to be rear, 1 to be flank 3-6 to be frontal. You still get the "prone" although she's moving, not completely "prone" so this is a weird one. I am inclined to give you a +2 automatically and more depending on the rear/flank. Sound good?)
8 Apr
I think that Gygax gives a flat +4 for prone in melee, and no other bonus, as he treats prone in melee as equivalent to rear. However, I am good with whatever you want to standardize on!
8 Apr
It's that "prone" to me is not moving, where she's moving and it would not be easy. It would almost be like hitting a beetle or scuttling creature like that. Either way, her frantic motions and almost inhuman speed are what make her hard to hit.
8 Apr
Why am I seeing something like 28 Days Later??? You've got me freaking out now...
8 Apr
(innocent voice) I don't know....
The second woman is moving at a slow pace towards TOBIAS.
The third figure moves FAST. Almost as if possessed, it comes charging full steam at TAKASHI and CALLIN, snarling and hissing.
A banging noise can now be heard from the building to the "west" and perhaps from the large barn.
No PC movement aside from CALLIN and TAKASHI moving around. (placement will be at melee)
2nd missile/spell phase:
No missiles or spells.
2nd movement phase:
No PC movement aside from CALLIN and TAKASHI moving around. (placement will be at melee)
The 2nd woman comes into melee range. She hisses at Claudia but doesn't make an overtly aggressive move at her. She stands next to TOBIAS and looks at him. He can see her eyes and they appear... lifeless? Empty? Possessed? He's never seen anything like this before.
"TOBIAS?" Claudia asks... her voice quivering.
8 Apr
TOBIAS locks eyes with the... crazy lady?... trying to judge her intent, but also unable to look away from their strangeness, while reaching up to put a calming hand on Claudia's shoulder.
TOBIAS (quietly to Claudia): "Hold on... I think it's ok..."
8 Apr
Claudia looks at him doubtfully and then at the woman. "OK... so now what do we do?" She turns to watch what happens with TAKASHI and CALLIN and also looks towards the sound of banging from the other buildings.
The woman stares (or looks blankly) back at TOBIAS.
8 Apr
TOBIAS points at the... crazy man?... that just ran up to CALLIN and TAKASHI and says to the (hopefully) charmed woman, "Those others, with the rotting clothes... they're trying to hurt me and my friends, stop them!"
8 Apr
That activity will happen next round. :)
The third figure, now close enough to be identified as a male human, completes its charge towards CALLIN.
TAKASHI: "Watch your back, brother!"
CALLIN, you can turn to face its charge, or keep your attention on the first woman, which means that you will possibly be flanked or rear-attacked by the creature. Let me know what you'd like to do.
CALLIN will whirl around with his shield up and swing into the oncoming attacker with his hammer. "They are like roaches TAKASHI! Coming out of the woodwork!"
3rd missile/spell phase:
None
Melee:
The woman and TAKASHI dance around each other, she claws and snarls and bites at his legs again, but is unable to penetrate his armor to land any wounds. The man charging CALLIN smashes into him and his fingers scrabble and claw at CALLIN's shield and rake across his shoulder. CALLIN lets out a yell and the man manages to crawl over CALLINs shield and bite into his shoulder!
TAKASHI dances around the snarling and biting woman who is trying to sink her claws and teeth into his flesh, and strikes relatively ineffectively at her, but he does strike, several times he is able to land thrusts and cuts onto her. The sword is light, amazingly so, and it seems to "fit" TAKASHI's style very well!
TAKASHI: "They are so damnably quick!"
CALLIN also lands several blows onto the head and body of the man attacking!
"I agree by the Light they are tough!" CALLIN responds!
The door smashes open on the building to the west and there stands another man, same attire, same attitude - hissing and snarling! The pounding coming from the large barn grows more frantic!
END OF ROUND!
12 Apr
Round 3:
A strange combat, between what had started as an investigation of a single body now involves four apparently alive humans, dressed in rotting clothes, but not undead zombies! They seem almost feral; two are busy trying to claw and bite at TAKASHI and CALLIN, locked in melee with it. TOBIAS has apparently charmed the third of the humans, and she is staring vacantly at him, while Claudia surveys the battlefield, unsure of what to do now. A fourth human has just broken down the door to a building to the west, and looks to be joining the fight! Frantic hammering sounds can be heard from the barn to the north.
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - Tries to position himslef at CALLIN's back, so the duo will at least not need to worry about any attacks from the read. He will then swing at the snarling woman on the ground. "If these two do not go down soon, we may be in trouble, friend!"
Callin - Will move to have his back against TAKASHI "I agree it is time to drop these feral creatures! Faith in the Light Brother, we shall make it through this!" ANd with that CALLIN will proceed to rain blows down upon the creature!
Tobias - says to the woman he cast the spell on, "Those others, with the rotting clothes... they're trying to hurt me and my friends, stop them!" Then he turns and tries to see what's making those hammering sounds...
Claudia - "MASTER! BE CAREFUL!" and she tries to protect TOBIAS while facing towards the new opponent.
INITIATIVE:
PCs: Callin Rolls for Initiative: 3
Monsters: Chgowiz / DM (GM) Rolls for Initiative: 3
Simultaneous.
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
No missiles. The woman looks at TOBIAS blankly and doesn't move. (TOBIAS, you can try another interaction with the woman the next spell phase.)
1st movement phase:
The fourth human dashes towards the group, as quick as the others. TAKASHI and CALLIN maneuver to get best position.
2nd missile/spell phase:
(Holding for TOBIAS/@Derek Daniels to decide if he wants to try something else)
11 Apr
TOBIAS will try a crude bit of sign language to try and get his message across. He'll point to the onrushing attacker, and then make a "pushing back" motion with his hands.
11 Apr
The woman continues to stare at you, only cocking her head to one side as if what you're doing doesn't make sense to her, perhaps? I'll give you another shot on the third phase, @Derek Daniels
2nd movement phase:
The fourth human, which is close enough now that you can see it's another man, completes its charge towards Claudia!
3rd missile/spell phase:
(Holding for TOBIAS)
11 Apr
"Do you understand my words? Help me stop them!" then, turning to Claudia: "Watch out, Claudia!" (to the attacking man): "You leave her alone!"
11 Apr
The woman turns towards the man charging Claudia and lurches towards him. (which I will have happen on the next movement phase! Next round!)
Melee:
11 Apr
CALLIN and TAKASHI - present your results here :) Also remember that this round is simultaneous, so while you may kill the opponent, it still gets its attacks.
Claudia: Attacks and Rolls:11 (MISS)
CALLIN: Callin (GM) Attacks and Rolls (with modifiers): 20 (not natural)
Callin (GM) Smashes his War Hammer into his Foe: 5
TAKASHI:
Alan Krause rolled 1d20 for a total of 1
Alan Krause rolled 1d100 for a total of 31
Alan Krause rolled 1d20 for a total of 12
12 = that should have been a 1d10, sorry! I can do 1 of 2 things.. halve your result (per the house rules) or have you reroll the 1d10. Your result is if I halve it - 4-6 Lost weapon, get another for next round. (so you toss your weapon away, or something equally "oopsie" - you can live with this or do another 1d10 roll - up to you! @Alan Krause)
11 Apr
I can live with a dropped weapon, I guess.
Woman attacking Takashi (AC 2):
Monster Attacks and Rolls:22 (HIT), Monster Attacks and Rolls:12 (MISS), Monster Attacks and Rolls:5 (MISS)
Chgowiz / DM (GM):  2
Man attacking Callin (AC 4 - my rolls didn't add the AC, I just rolled 1d20+adjustments and I add in the AC after. Old habits...):
(To GM): Monster Attacks and Rolls:13 (MISS), (To GM): Monster Attacks and Rolls:14 (MISS), (To GM): Monster Attacks and Rolls:21 (HIT) (Critical, check roll of 40, no crit)
Chgowiz / DM (GM):  rolling d100 =  87, Chgowiz / DM (GM):  rolling 1d3 = 2
Man attacking Claudia (AC 9)
(To GM): Monster Attacks and Rolls:21 (HIT), (To GM): Monster Attacks and Rolls:9 (MISS), (To GM): Monster Attacks and Rolls:15 (HIT)
Chgowiz / DM (GM): 
rolling d100 62
rolling 1d2 2
rolling 1d3 1
The melee becomes a mass of shifting, movement, flashing blades, swinging hammers and the gasps and pants of the party mixed in with the hisses and shrieks of the feral humans. Claudia is quickly overwhelmed the man that has charged her and he not only slashes at her unarmored torso, digging in huge gouges with his fingernails across her abdomen and ribs, but he draws near and bites her on the shoulder very close to her neck! She screams and twists away, looking all the more like a panicked and severely injured teen-aged girl than a warrior-in-training.
CALLIN smashes his hammer again and again into the man he's facing, as the hissing and snarling opponent manages to scramble around the hammer and bite into CALLIN's arm again! However, the amount of smashing that CALLIN does finally gets the best of his opponent and it goes down!
TAKASHI, however, does not fare as welll. The woman hisses at him and he swings mightily, only to see his sword go sailing beyond her! The suddeness of the loss of his sword gives the feral woman an opening and she rakes her fingers across his exposed neck and arm, managing to twist her fingers in and claw over and over at him, forcing him to push her away. (It will take you a round to find and retrieve the weapon, although being in melee, you can draw another weapon or try to punch her. You'd have to be disengaged from the melee to retrieve the sword.)
With a shuddering crack, the smaller door on the barn behind you starts to give way and you can see arms and hands clawing their way through! There may be more than one creature!
End of round
13 Apr
Round 4:
The strange melee continues with CALLIN defeating the strange, feral human male with a series of heavy hammer falls, although he has been bit again. His friend TAKASHI has lost his sword and is facing a snarling feral woman who has raked her fingers into his flesh. Meanwhile, Claudia has faced the brunt of a charge by another feral man and suffered serious wounds from it's clawing and biting. TOBIAS has managed to get his charmed strange woman to move in lurches towards the male attacking Claudia.
However, ominously, the door to the barn has smashed open and it looks like things are coming through it!
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - will retrieve his sword (he has no other weapon, as the axe was dropped earlier), and yell at his friend, "Leave me here and save Claudia - she has been grievously wounded! I will try and slow them down and prevent them from following you back tot town!"
Callin - "I will protecter her!" And with that CALLIN will charge toward the threatening creature, slam into it with his shield trying to knock in prone and bring down hammer blows upon it's head. "By the LIGHT you will fall fel creature!"
Tobias - Sees the blade go flying and yells, "Takashi... I'll get it!" He keeps his silver dagger pointed threateningly at the one attacking Claudia while he works his way around, trying to get to where he can retrieve the sword.
Claudia - "No Master! I will not leave you!" and determinedly bashes at the man with her wooden sword.
INITIATIVE:
PCs: Callin Rolls for Initiative: 5
Monsters: Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 1
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
None
1st movement phase:
CALLIN charges the man-creature threatening Claudia with the intent on shield-bashing it, but at the same time, the woman-creature under the control of TOBIAS also slams into that same man-creature! (Depending on the efficacy of your attacks will determine what kind of pile you all create. You might actually want to miss! LOL)
TAKASHI and TOBIAS both move towards his sword. TAKASHI, being occupied, will permit the woman-creature a flanking attack.
The two creatures that have burst through the door come sprinting out, hissing and snarling. One appears to be a male child! The other is a man. They seem to be charging towards the group of CALLIN and CLAUDIA!
2nd missile/spell phase:
None
2nd movement phase:
The two creatures continue their charge towards CALLIN and Claudia! The man charges CALLIN and the child charges Claudia.
3rd missile/spell phase:
None
Melee:
13 Apr
(CALLIN, please roll to hit for your shield bash. TOBIAS, you can engage the woman-creature facing TAKASHI, as he's fishing for his sword. Please roll to hit and damage).
(At the same time, I'll adjudicate the woman-creature tangling with the man-creature #2 - and then we'll see if Claudia hits ... someone in the pile. Then the other creatures attack.)
Callin Attacks and Rolls (with modifiers): 4 ; Callin Smashes his War Hammer into his Foe: 2 ( I used the stock +1 I get, not sure if a charge gives me a bonus or not...doubt it would help anyway :D) (Not with a 4, unfortunately...)
TOBIAS attacks with his silver dagger (trying to remember some of what Takashi showed Claudia, but mainly swinging wildly): rolled 1d20 -1 for a total of 14, rolled 1d4 for a total of 2.
Woman No2 attacking Man No2: Monster Attacks and Rolls:19 GRAPPLE IS SUCCESSFUL rolling 1d2= 2
Claudia attacking man as well (miss might result in her hitting woman as they are grappled) Monster Attacks and Rolls:15 Attack hits! rolling 1d6 (club) = 5
Man No 3 attacks CALLIN: Monster Attacks and Rolls:21 (green) - Critical possible - rolling 1d100 = 34; no crit. (HIT); Monster Attacks and Rolls:13 (MISS); Monster Attacks and Rolls: 2 (RED) - possible fumble - rolling 1d100 = 98 (FUMBLE) - rolling 1d10 = 3 (Weapon in ground)
Child No1 attacks Claudia: Monster Attacks and Rolls:7 (MISS); Monster Attacks and Rolls:14 (HIT) rolling 1d2 = 2; Monster Attacks and Rolls:3 (MISS)
CALLIN charges over towards the man-creature threatening Claudia, but is unable to land blows with the creature grappling with the charmed woman! The woman manages to tangle up the man and even scratch his arms and torso. Perhaps by instinct, perhaps by desperation, Claudia manages to maneuver into and land a series of bone-cracking strikes with her wooden sword, the last caving the man-creature's skull in! He goes down!
The woman threatening TAKASHI doesn't see TOBIAS come up behind her and stab at her with his silver dagger. The dagger doesn't fare well against the woman, bending after the many blows, but when finished, the woman lies dead and TOBIAS's hand and arm are covered with her blood. TAKASHI picks up his sword.
The final man standing claws and bites at CALLIN and his fingers get stuck in CALLIN's armor. CALLIN can feel the fetid breath and saliva as the creature hisses and snarls in his face!
The child-creature bites and claws at Claudia, raking deep and bloody grooves into her legs and hips, causing her to stumble and shriek. She is severely wounded now and her clothes are blood-soaked, although it's hard to know if it's her blood or opponents or both..
END OF ROUND
14 Apr
Round 5:
The tide has shifted in favor of the Party, although Claudia looks to be on her last legs from a vicious attack by a remaining child-creature, a spitting, snarling, hissing feral-like human male. The remaining "adult" is stuck in CALLIN's armor, trying deseperately to claw at CALLIN or free itself, or both!
TAKASHI has recovered his sword, while TOBIAS's dagger has bent, the soft silver metal unable to hold up to stabbing the woman-creature to death.
With the spittle and teeth gnashing in CALLIN's face, suddenly he remembers... the Damned! He had heard of the strange disease which had been the scourge of cities and towns when the Doom first fell. These must be afflicted with it... and to be bit may lead to the unholy half-life that these poor creatures suffer from. CALLIN has been bit... twice. Claudia has been bit once.
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - TAKASHI will bellow in rage and charge the child creature attacking Claudia, hoping to bring down the fetid creature with a single blow. "Stand strong Claudia, I am here with you!"
Callin - "Faith in the LIGHT Claudia! You are a warrior! Today is not your last day!" Callin will shout the words to give her conviction. Then he will rain down blows on the creature hooked in his armor so that he might aid the girl. (On your attack, I'm going to count it as flanking, so you can add +2 to hit). ok cool :)
Tobias - yells, "Run, Claudia!" He stands there watching her, out of breath, wishing he could make her move faster! He draws out the other dagger at his belt, letting the bent silver one drop to the ground. He raises the dagger with his blood-soaked arm, ready to throw it at any of these things that tries to follow her....
Claudia - will do a fighting withdrawal, towards TAKASHI. "Master..." she says in a weak voice.
INITIATIVE:
PCs: rolled 1d6 for a total of 3
Monsters: Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 2
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
TOBIAS does not have a clear shot at the child-creature since it is in melee with Claudia (and soon TAKASHI).
1st movement phase:
TAKASHI charges the child-creature, as Claudia - keeping her sword raised - does a fighting withdrawal (in a pretty good manner!).
The child, distracted by the bellowing fighter, turns its attention to TAKASHI (d6 roll, 1-2 it stays with Claudia - Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 4 )
The charmed woman stands, looking at TOBIAS blankly.
2nd missile/spell phase:
TOBIAS does not have a clear shot at the child-creature since it is in melee with TAKASHI.
2nd movement phase:
No movement.
3rd missile/spell phase:
None - same.
Melee:
14 Apr
CALLIN and TAKASHI, roll to hit/damage.
TAKASHI (to hit) rolled 1d20 for a total of 19. 19 +2 (level) +? (sword) +2 (charge) should be a hit. (HIT!)
TAKASHI (damage) rolled 1d8 for a total of 7. 7 +? (sword) (Someone's head is coming off.....)
Callin Attacks and Rolls (with modifiers): 4 (NAT1 :( ) FUMBLE: Callin Percentiles: 65 : Callin Jammed Weapon into ground (CRAP!)
Child monster is dead
Man monster lost a round from previous fumble. CALLIN will lose next round.
With a bellow of rage TAKASHI's sword sings in the air as it flashes and dances, and the child-creature lays dead. Unfortunately, CALLIN's rain of blows slams his hammer deep into the ground and CALLIN is unable to pull it out with the man-creature struggling to free itself. It finally does, leaving CALLIN to have to pull his weapon out of the soft and bloody earth.
END OF ROUND
15 Apr
Round 6:
One of the creatures, which CALLIN would call "The Damned", remains standing, having freed himself from being tangled in CALLINs armor. Mindlessly, the man hisses and snarls, ready to pounce on CALLIN once again! TAKASHI has killed the child, and TOBIAS and Claudia are standing at the ready, but out of breath and bloody, no other creatures around them. The charmed Damned woman stands mindlessly between CALLIN and TAKASHI, staring at TOBIAS.
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - Will maneuver himself to flank the Damned still threatening CALLIN and swing the sword with all his skiil. "You will fall, as you should have fallen years before."
Callin - CALLIN will work to pull his hammer from the earth. Trying to hold his shield between himself and the dammed. "Beware of their bite TAKASHI! I fear they are the Damned!"
Tobias - "Claudia, are you... are you alright?" (Pushing back his hair to look at her): "You're bleeding!" (he tries to help her.) (First aid will give her back 1hp, that takes a full turn (10 rounds). So we'll say you've started that.) (Ok.)
Claudia - Remains on the defense, watching the duel between the Damned man and CALLIN.
INITIATIVE:
PCs: Callin Rolls for Initiative: 5
Monsters: Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 1
RESULTS:
1st missile/spell phase:
N/A
1st movement phase:
TAKASHI maneuvers to flank the Damned man, who seems to have it's sights set on the defenseless CALLIN.
2nd missile/spell phase:
N/A
2nd movement phase:
All movement done.
3rd missile/spell phase:
N/A
Melee:
15 Apr
TAKASHI - roll to hit and damage. You have a +2 for flanking.
Alan Krause rolled 1d20 for a total of 5 +2 (level) +2 (flanking) +? (sword) -> probably a miss.
Alan Krause rolled 1d8 for a total of 3 +? (sword)
Damned-Man - attacking CALLIN, who is actively defending himself. - Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d20 for a total of 17 (HIT) Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d4 for a total of 4 (2 points) ; Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d20 for a total of 12 (MISS) ; Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d20 for a total of 11 (MISS)
TAKASHI moves into a flanking position and tries to land slices and thrusts, but they seem to either miss or have little impact on the Damned-Man, who is clawing at CALLIN behind his shield. CALLIN desperate claws for his hammer buried in the ground and the Damned manages to get in a few rakes of his claws into the areas of little armor. (2 points of damage to CALLIN).
End of Round
17 Apr
Round 7:
One of the Damned remains alive, clawing and tearing at CALLIN, who had to retrieve his hammer from the ground. Now armed, both he and TAKASHI face the last of these strange humans, while the charmed Damned-woman continues to stand mindlessly in the center of the carnage. TOBIAS has started first aid on Claudia, with what he has available with him. She has a half defiant look at him, but allows him to continue, while she watches TAKASHI carefully, gripping her wooden sword tightly and panting in fear and exhaustion.
DECLARATIONS:
Takashi - Once more, TAKASHI will try to take this damned creature down.
Callin - "Creature of the damned, may the Light send you back to whatever darkness spawned you!" Callin bellows as he slams his hammer into the creature!
Tobias - does the best he can to bind Claudia's wounds with what he has on hand (he usually keeps handkerchiefs in his coat's big pockets to keep materials he's collected wrapped up in) and with his little knowledge of first aid from reading.
Claudia - Defensive stance.
INITIATIVE:
PCs: Alan Krause rolled 1d6 for a total of 4
Monsters: Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 1
(NOTE: Unless TOBIAS wants to get involved, I'm willing to keep to this reply and just do the back and forth with initiative/to-hit/damage rolls until the combat is complete.) (Works for Tobias!)
Melee:
(Initiative order)
17 Apr
TAKASHI rolled 1d20 for a total of 10 +2 (level) +2 (flank) +?(sword) + ?(AC) = HIT
TAKASHI rolled 1d8 for a total of 8 + ?(sword)
Callin Attacks and Rolls (with modifiers): 22 (nat 19) (HIT)
Callin Smashes his War Hammer into his Foe: 6
CALLIN and TAKASHI maneuver for position as the the creature snarls and claws at CALLIN. An opening presents itself and the creature finds its midsection being opened up as a hammer blow smashes down on its head, It falls to its needs and both men finish the Damned off with blows and thrusts to it.
END OF COMBAT
17 Apr
The next ten minutes will be spent with you all recovering and resting from a seven minute melee, and with TOBIAS applying first aid to Claudia.
18 Apr
TAKASHI: "Claudia, are you all right? You did well in your first combat, but I fear we need to outfit you with appropriate armor before you go into battle next. And the bites that you and CALLIN have suffered worry me. What can you tell us of these fell people, brother CALLIN?
And as for TOBIAS, well done! You stepped in to protect your village when it was needed. Perhaps Sir Flinnigan has already taught you more than you realize!"
18 Apr
Claudia nods grimly, her deep wounds and bite still bleeding. "I will try better, Master." she says through gritted teeth. It's clear she's trying very hard to not let the pain show. You've seen that look in her eyes, that look when someone has witnessed their first battle, claimed their first kill. It's a look that never quite goes away.
18 Apr
TAKASHI: "Make no mistake, Claudia. Today, you have done extremely well. Do not mistake my seriousness for chastisement, as you did more than any could expect given a wooden sword and these inhuman opponents. Well done."
And with that, TAKASHI gives his student a rare smile.
"Perhaps CALLIN with bless you with his healing, if needed."
18 Apr
CALLIN: "They are the DAMNED. A cured people that came about after the doom. They are like the undead in many ways, but in others they are not. They seem to never age, and have a taste for the flesh of the living...." He pauses and looks at CLAUDIA and himself. "...the bite of the DAMNED can ....turn.... one into the DAMNED.. I have never actually seen someone turned, but I think it would be best to go to the temple and have a priest attempt to remove the curse should it be afflicted upon us. The change happens quickly so I have heard, so if I begin to....change.....be ready!" CALLIN looks TAKASHI in the eyes directly. "I will understand and expect you to do what needs to be done friend."
Then CALLIN will head to CLAUDIA and attempt to help TOBIAS tend to her wounds...If they are grevious enough he will use cure light wounds upon her. Otherwise he will make the rounds binding wounds of those injured in the battle.
18 Apr
They are very grievious and would require almost a week's rest to recover. (A CLW would be appropriate, by your estimation.)
18 Apr
CALLIN knees next to CLAUDA "You have fought well CLAUDIA! The LIGHT recognizes those who will stand against the Darkness. Let the LIGHT in turn shine down upon you. Let it refresh you, let it heal you. Let the LIGHT fill you with it's warm embrace." And with that CALLIN will cast Cure Light Wounds: Callin Heals his comrade for: 2
18 Apr
TAKASHI: "I understand, brother. Then let us return to the village, saddle up, and be on our way to the temple in Skalfier. Claudia, if you like, I can speak with your parents about this if you feel it would be better."
18 Apr
She shakes her head. "No, Master... I will tell them. They will be upset... but I will tell them." Her face reflects her feelings on the upcoming discussion.
18 Apr
TAKASHI: "Then tell them that you fought bravely, and saved master TOBIAS from one of the damned, and that your teacher sees much promise in you. We will return from Skalfier as soon as we are able."
18 Apr
CALLIN: "TAKASHI.....CLAUDIA has bite marks as well. It would be best if she went to the temple with us. Actually I must insist."
19 Apr
OOC: TAKASHI intended to brind Claudia to the temple with us. He also want to outfit her in armor, if at all possible and assuming she survives the journey.
19 Apr
Ooc: ack read the wrong. See what I get for responding in a meeting!
19 Apr
Claudia's hand goes to her bite and she gasps. "Oh no... am I going... to turn... " and bursts into tears. She only cries a moment and then squints and shuts her eyes hard and wipes her face.
19 Apr
TAKASHI: "Do not give in to despair, Claudia. You are made of stronger stuff than that. Hurry home, pack a few things and explain what must be done, and we will meet you at your home as we leave shortly."
19 Apr
TOBIAS picks up the ruined silver dagger and puts it in one of his wide pockets. He has no time now to reflect on he did with it - killed, for the first time, with his own hands. He approaches the charmed woman, watching her face.
TOBIAS: Can you understand what I'm saying? Will you follow me?
19 Apr
The charmed Damned woman "looks" at you, but you see no real intelligence in her eyes. Her mouth opens and shut in random intervals. She doesn't blink or otherwise move.
19 Apr
TAKASHI: "TOBIAS, how long will this thing behave like this? Should we dispatch her before leaving - I would rather not have to face it again, nor would I want anyone else to stumble upon it."
19 Apr
TOBIAS (shaking his head slowly) : I've never had anyone come out of it before at least a few days. Can we take her with us and try to save her? She's still a person!
19 Apr
CALLIN: "I wouldn't suggest leading it back to appleton. TOBIAS and I can stay outside of the Village while CLAUDIA and TAKASHI resupply for our journey. That will keep the people safe. As we can watch the beast from the distance. We can then take her to the temple and try and cure her.... SHould she break free of your charms TOBIAS, we may need to dispatch her. DO you agree TAKASHI?"
20 Apr
TAKASHI looks at the savage wounds that Claudia and CALLIN have suffered, then looks at the slavering beast.
TAKASHI: "I can not, in good conscious, call this thing a person. If we try to enter Skalfier with this, I hesitate to think what the guards would think. And if it was to return to itself during the journey? * shudder* I would rather we dispatch her and let her body join her soul, which I think is long gone. Still, if you tell me that she can be saved at the temple, I will spare my blade for the sake of both of two."
20 Apr
TAKASHI: "One more thing to think on. We will need to ride with all haste to get to Skalfier as quickly as possible, to make sure that you two do not turn. If we have to herd this... thing... with us, we may not make it in time. I would not risk your lives for one already lost."
20 Apr
CALLIN: "I'm afraid TAKASHI is correct. We must head to the temple as quickly as possible to avoid CLAUDIA and My turning into such vile creatures. It might be best to but this creature out of it's misery." CALLIN looks to TOBIAS "I'm sorry TOBIAS, I'm afriad I must put CLAUDIA above this creature."
20 Apr
TOBIAS walks up close to TAKASHI and CALLIN and whispers to them: "I think she'll let us tie her up if I'm the one doing it. We can leave her here and try to bring someone back from Skalfier that can save her."
20 Apr
CALLIN: "Forgive my moment of weakness. I was selfish. TAKASHI, TOBAIS is right, this is a girl underneath and we must do what we can to save her. Even if it isn't the easy thing to do. If you must by all means take CLAUDIA ahead and have her go to the temple. We will follow behind. We can bind her and carry her on the horses as we go. We won't be far behind" CALLIN then looks to TOBIAS "Thank you for showing me the LIGHT TOBAIS!"
20 Apr
TAKASHI: "I have no problem with securing the creature here, if you can do so safely, TOBIAS. This way, we could make our way with haste to Skalfier, ask those in the temple there to cure CALLIN and Claudia, and then enquire if there is a cure for those already affected. If we leave the creature here, then there is no added danger on our journey, we won't be slowed down, and securing it here likely prevents it from troubling Appleton."
21 Apr
CALLIN: "Let us check the outbuildings of the farmhouse for some rope. I'm sure there is some inside."
21 Apr
TOBIAS nods.
21 Apr
The farmhouse is a wreck, with barely anything left intact or usable inside. The small out buildings to the left are full of bones and debris, probably used to be buildings that held smaller animals.
The barn is also full of debris, but it is much more intact. There are leather straps that look aged and cracked, but look they would serve to tie up the Damned woman.
Also, you see a square imprint in the ground, as if the dirt has sunken in a bit, in the middle of the barn dirt floor.
21 Apr
TAKASHI: "What could this indent be, here?"
TAKASHI will probe the edges of the sunken are with the haft of his axe (recovered after dropping it at the start of the fight).
21 Apr
There's a thin layer of dirt, but it sounds like wood on wood contact when you bump it. Pushing the dirt away at a corner reveals what looks like a plank of wood.
22 Apr
TOBIAS: Master TAKASHI, is that a trap door?
22 Apr
TAKASHI: "It looks like it, TOBIAS. Let's see what lies underneath."
TAKASHI will try and pry up the plank of wood using his hands, and if it proves stubborn, will use the blad of his axe to slide under it and gain some leverage.
22 Apr
The plank comes up, with dirt cascading into the small void underneath. It is an old, rusty iron box, with a lock on the lid. The box is pretty large, it looks like it could hold quite a bit. It fits almost snugly into the hole it sits in. You'll have to remove the rest of the planks to clear the way to try and lift it.
22 Apr
CALLIN will help TAKASHI clear the rest of the planks and lift out the box.
22 Apr
TAKASHI: "Looks like a good sized strong box was stashed here. Let's see if we can't get it out of the ground and open it up quickly."
22 Apr
TOBIAS looks around for anything that might help pry open the box.
22 Apr
There are older farm implements that look rusted but possibly can be used.
22 Apr
I have hammers as well....
22 Apr
TAKASHI: "Do you want to try and break that lock off with your hammer, CALLIN? Perhaps we could wedge a metal spike between the lock to help the process."
TAKASHI will look around for a metal farm implement to aid us, and one for TOBIAS as well.
22 Apr
TOBIAS looks too...
23 Apr
There are rusted pitch forks, shovels, a couple of what appear to be old saddles. There are smaller pieces of metal that look old and rusted, but they might serve as spikes.
23 Apr
CALLIN will attempt to use some of the smaller pieces of metal as spikes and use his hammer to attempt to break the lock.
24 Apr
After a turn of pounding and sweating, you've bent one of the smaller pieces of metal, which surprisingly has held together. But neither the lock nor the box have given.
25 Apr
TAKASHI: "Perhaps we should return here at a later time, with the light fingered one. Time is pressing for you and Claudia, and I'd rather not risk your health for whatever might be stashed inside this box."
25 Apr
The box was heavy when you lifted it out, and the sounds of coins could be heard jingling about inside as you pulled it from the hole.
25 Apr
TOBIAS picks up the leather straps and approaches the woman. He speaks to her softly: "We're going to try and find someone to make you feel better. I have to put this on you though, so no one gets hurt." He reaches up to start tying first her arms, then her legs, double-knotting with the best knot he can remember how to tie.
25 Apr
The woman doesn't resist you tying her arms (and legs) up.
25 Apr
CALLIN: "I Agree, I do not have ATACIUS' nimbleness that is for sure! Let's put the box back and cover it back up before heading back"
25 Apr
TAKASHI will help CALLIN push the box back in it's hole, and then cover it up with dirt, planks, whatever.
25 Apr
TOBIAS: "Okay, let's go!"
25 Apr
Fall 21 (Appleton)
The box is returned to the spot it was found and covered back up with the planks and dirt.
Once TOBIAS binds up the woman, you all realize that the woman will have be placed on TAKASHI's horse to be taken back. She is a dead-weight, not offering any resistance to being moved. The only time she seems to show any sign of awareness is when TOBIAS seems to go outside of roughly 40 yards distance, she begins to make noises and try to move.
The travel back to Appleton is a somber one. Claudia is silent, and she suggests that they circle the village and come up behind TOBIAS's house, so that nobody can see the woman. She thinks TOBIAS should stay with the horse and woman.
Claudia leads TAKASHI (and CALLIN, assuming he'll come with) to see her parents.
The conversation is terse and tense. Ilya is livid upon finding out that Claudia was engaged in battle, demanding that TAKASHI and CALLIN leave immediately. However, upon hearing that Claudia may be infected with "the unliving plague" as it is commonly known, she goes white with fear. Marc is silent, brooding. They both nod their assent to Claudia going to Skalfier for healing. Claudia asks if she can speak to them alone.
TAKASHI and CALLIN both hear her voice, urgent yet pleading, and only what is probably Ilya sobbing, and after a few minutes, Claudia exits her home, grim faced.
"Mother won't talk to me now. She says I'll most likely infect them. Father... he won't disagree with Mother. Mother thinks I can't be cured." she says in a monotone voice. "I'm ready to go."
It will be a simple matter of collecting everyone together (and seeing that ATACIUS and GRAIAN have just returned from Skalfier) to prepare to go to town and the Temple.
25 Apr
TAKASHI: "I am sorry to have placed you in such great danger, Claudia. Had I known that they were capable of infecting you and brother CALLIN, I likely would have taken a different approach. That does little to console you, I know... Nor your parents. The path forward is clear for the time being - off to Skalfier to heal you and CALLIN. I'll get ATACIUS and GRAIAN, and then we will leave immediately."
TAKASHI will find the other two recently returned from Skalfier, and quickly explain the situation with CALLIN, Claudia, and the subdued damned outside.
TAKASHI: "So, as you can see, we must return to Skalfier immediately to try and find a cure, lest these two be lost to us. Do you wish to return with us, or is there other task that you need to attend to?"
25 Apr
GRAIAN paces "This is unfortunate if we don't find something soon to avert the looming war it may be that there is no Callin or Claudia anyway, nor us for that matter. However, I could not see ,my friends suffer that way, and besides, we all need to be together and healthy if we have any hope of searching quickly. I will return, perhaps we can learn more about these creatures and how to protect ourselves from them."
25 Apr
CALLIN: "I am sorry as well Claudia. We will make you well again. Then we will come and speak with your family. Perhaps after a visit to the temple will ease their minds."
26 Apr
TOBIAS paces impatiently as he waits near the horse carrying the diseased woman on its back. "We have to hurry!" he thinks, "What if this spreads into the village?" He wishes he had had time to take out his pliers and take some samples from one of those dead ones. At least he'd have something to study or possibly use for spells. Finally, he plops to the ground to flip through the pages of his small travelling spellbook.
26 Apr
CALLIN gathers what he needs for the trip and looks to the others. "Are we ready?"
26 Apr
TAKASHI makes sure that all his equipment is ready, and then answer's CALLIN's query with an, "Aye. Let's get going!"
26 Apr
TOBIAS, seeing the others approach, slaps his book closed and stands, saying "At last!" He dusts off his coat and gets his pack ready.
26 Apr
GRAIAN checks he has everything and unties his horse
27 Apr
ATACIUS: "I was hoping to get some rest, but the situation admits no delay." says the littleling giving a worried look at everyone's binded wounds, as he waters his pony and stretches his legs.
"Let me tell you TOBIAS, that the gems Lady Catherine left me are a small fortune, and I'll be happy to put some of it to work for the good of Appleton!" he says trying to put some hope in the kid.
27 Apr
You see TOBIAS' eyes (or at least the one eye you can see through his hair) light up and his impatient, worried look is replaced with a smile. "That's GREAT news!" Then leans down to whisper in ATACIUS' ear: "We also found an old box what was buried out by the farmhouse. It sounded like it had coins in it!"