The Dark Ages - Southern Seas - Act 13 - Appleton

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13 Aug
The Dark Ages - Southern Seas - Act 13 - Appleton
26th day of Fall, Year 56
The party has survived a long delve into the Athenum and returned with books and scrolls, although not unscathed. GRAIAN has been polymorphed into some sort of creature, evil looking, but still in charge of his own faculties. The party is holed up in Appleton, in TOBIAS's mansion, while the village stirs outside with the dawn.
What will you do now?
13 Aug
TOBIAS, a long, sleepless night passes with you and GRAIAN looking through the books. As dawn breaks, a solid six hours of study has given you a few facts:
1. These books are very focused on magick and its study. They are near treasures and if you continued to study them, you would find your knowledge greatly increased, but it would take at least 3 ten-days of study to begin to scratch the surface.
2. The book "Possible Side-effects of Combining Meta-Humanistic-Properties With Spell-Alteration" covers a lot of what happens with a polymorph spell when used to affect another humanoid creature. It seems that GRAIAN was indeed polymorphed and has managed, through possibly luck or intelligence, to retain who he is, but with the body and possible powers of another creature. Some sort of dispel would be needed, either arcane or divine, to remove the effects, and hopefully GRAIAN would be strong enough to survive. It seems he would stay this way until changed.
3. One ominous note is that the writer, a mage named F'shal, was suspicious that certain forms might bring danger or opportunity, as some forms such as those of Chaos or demonic form, might tie the person changed closer to that side...
You hear villagers stirring outside and Enid unlocking the front door to let herself in...
13 Aug
TOBIAS scrambles to throw a robe or blanket over GRAIAN, then runs to meet Enid at the front door!
13 Aug
GRAIAN a little surprised by Tobias' action is about to complain and shrug off the covering, then he realizes even with Enid this might be a bit of a shock without some explanation beforehand. He settles down and waits, pondering over what they have learnt. He seems to be generally OK, just a little strange looking and his ability to speak in Common is becoming easier if he concentrates. He remembers his spells ands can seem to cast OK, the disks worked. Going to the Conclave might be a little difficult though, if for no other reason than that he will have to risk a change back, assuming there is someone who can help.
13 Aug
TAKASHI, after getting a good night's sleep, wakes up as the rest of the house stirs. He sees TOBIAS scramble towards the front door, and peeks in to check in on GRAIAN.
TAKASHI: "I noticed that you shied away from CALLIN's holy symbol yesterday, which does not bode well. In all of your research, have you come accross the being that you now resemble?"
15 Aug
CALLIN: "I must go run morning Service, but after I will focus my prayers on what can be done to help you. Perhaps Maria might know a way to remove this curse from upon you" And with that CALLIN will go run Morning Service for those who wish to attend.
15 Aug
GRAIAN: "Some.....ki..nd of.....de..mon. I...am ..ssure.. Ma..ri.a ca.n.... hel..p"
15 Aug
CALLIN: "Then after morning service I will head to Skalfier. Perhaps we can wrap you in the manner of a leper while we travel to the temple?
16 Aug
ATACIUS: "We'll need to cut those claws and talons first. The thing is, will it hurt him or be just like clipping nails?"
15 Aug
TOBIAS (at the front door): "Hi, Enid! We, uh... have some visitors. One of them, Master GRAIAN is, umm... not feeling well."
16 Aug
Enid shoots a glance at all of you that reminds you of your own mothers when you were young... that "Boys.... *sigh*" look. She nods and goes into the kitchen to cook breakfast.
After an hour of cooking and eating, she clears away the plates and cutlery and looks at TOBIAS and TAKASHI. "Does Master Graian require help? Or will you be attending to him yourselves?"
16 Aug
TAKASHI: "Actually, I thought that I'd go and look after CLAUDIA a bit to see how she is doing with her family, and training. Perhaps she'd like to come to Skalfier with us again, under less personal pressing conditions. That is, unless you require my help TOBIAS. I don't know what assistance I could lend in your and GRAIAN's area of interest, but am willing to help if needed."
16 Aug
TOBIAS: "No, I think we'll be ok, Master TAKASHI... We just need some time with some quiet to rest... and read..."
18 Aug
TAKASHI nods at TOBIAS' words, and makes his way to Claudia's house to check on her and her family.
17 Aug
After breakfast, TOBIAS tries to work with GRAIAN to go through the materials and find some spell, potion, or other way to transform him back. "We've gotta find a way in these books Graian, I think if they try to use that Light magic it'll be really painful for you!"
17 Aug
TOBIAS - all you had found in the previous 6 hours of studying that one book is this: Some sort of dispel would be needed, either arcane or divine, to remove the effects, and hopefully GRAIAN would be strong enough to survive. It seems he would stay this way until changed.
If you want to search the other books, this will take days.
17 Aug
Understood. Tobias thinks this is the only chance they have of finding some dispelling magic that they can use safely on Graian - he saw how that holy symbol was affecting him! (Plus, he wants to go through those books anyway, let's keep it real...)
17 Aug
That's fine. To get an initial good survey and superficial reading of the books you have, ten days would have to pass.
17 Aug
GRAIAN begins to get impatient with the books, they do not have the time to study in the hope of finding a spell they could use. As much as he would like to learn all he can thisis not the time. "Tob..ias we mu..st hurr...y. Call..in can...get hel..p."
17 Aug
TOBIAS sighs. "Ok, but I still think they'll hurt you when they try. I think CALLIN is going to be coming back here after he does his morning stuff."
17 Aug
ATACIUS is wiilling to go with CALLIN to Skalfier and get help while GRAIAN and TOBIAS study the books.
18 Aug
CALLIN will return after service. "GRAIAN.....I think it would be best if we travel to Skalfier and see about getting you cured. Would you mind being wrapped up to keep stairing eyes away from you? I think the quicker we get you to Maria the better."
19 Aug
GRAIAN nods in agreement, "Ye.s, but... we....mu..st be car..eful."
19 Aug
CALLIN "Agreed! Now lets get you prepared for travel!" and with that CALLIN will start working to bandage him up.
19 Aug
Go ahead and describe what you're going to make him look like, and then we'll move forward.
ATACIUS, TAKASHI, TOBIAS, are you all going to go with him? (TAKASHI, once I know what your intentions are, I'll fill you in on what happens with your visit to CLAUDIA)
19 Aug
TAKASHI will travel with CALLIN and GRAIAN, and will invite Claudia to travel with them to Skalfier as well.
20 Aug
While they're getting GRAIAN ready, TOBIAS will try to move all the Athenum books and materials to the most secure room of the manor, preferably one with no windows and a big, sturdy door that can be locked up tight. He'll try to grab one book to put in his backpack to take with him to Skalfier, the one he thinks the elves might most like, so they won't be in a mood to start a war.
22 Aug
CALLIN will attempt to wrap him in cloth strips from head to toe, allowing for eye holes, mouth hole, and nose holes. ( think the mummy) or morgan freeman wrapped a a leper in the Robin hood movie
22 Aug
Earlier:
TAKASHI, you are pleasantly surprised to see Claudia running through her drills. She's even taken to using the sword on several trees with low branches like "arms" for her to practice with. Still inexperienced and needing much work, but there is a grim determination in her eyes and when she performs a parry and thrust combo perfectly, she raises the practice sword and raps on the tree in satisfaction.
She is very pleased, but reserved to see you. However, she is quick to gain permission to go with you to Skalfier, especially with her parents' cart and a shopping list of supplies that several villagers need. With many coins in a purse, she is ready to go.
22 Aug
TAKASHI: "A good less for all of us, Claudia. Not all of our service need be in terms of violence and self defence. Sometimes, a helping hand is all that is needed!
Come, let us get going. We will talk of your training and any questions you may have on our way to Skalfier. And try not to stare at GRAIAN - I will explain on the way."
24 Aug
26th Day of Fall, Evening, 56AD, Skalfier
Once again, you find yourselves outside the city gates of Skalfier near dark, with Claudia looking at you all skeptically as you plan on how to get GRAIAN past the guards.
Her first reaction to a glimpse of GRAIAN's changed appearance was a gasp and hand to the mouth, but TAKASHI notes with some interest that her other hand reached for the practice sword that she carries at her side. She steadied herself at your reassurances.
So...
22 Aug
... what will you do?
22 Aug
CALLIN: "I shall ride ahead and inform them that GRAIAN has contracted an illness and must be tended too at the temple immediatly." CALLIN will make sure his Holy Symbol is showing clear of his clothes, then ride ahead of the party and approch the guards. "Good Evening Gentlemen. I come with a man in need of temple services. I have bandaged him up, but I'm afraid he will need the powers of those greater than myself this night. May we enter?"
22 Aug
The two guards stare at you, their mouths agape.
"Diseased... why ye be bringin' someone sick 'ere! Ye wait out there, 'n a priest be sent to the gate fer ye!" one of the guards snaps!
The other turns and whacks the first guard on the head. "Ey! Ye don' see 'is sun on 'is chest!? What ye been drinkin'?!"
The first squints at CALLIN. "Eere... OK, I be seein' ya but iffin' ye be wi' a sick one, ye might have the affliction too!" he says worriedly.
The second whacks the first one again. "Ere now, I be the one inna charge, and I say ye be actin' all foolish. Ye want the Priest ta come ta ye and take ye for a lesson, eh?"
The first guard shudders a bit and quickly opens the door. "'ere ye go, deacon.. ye go to the temple and get ye the high priest ta come, but we no can let in a sick one. Orders 'o the day."
The second nods "True 'nuff, and blessin's 'o the Light ta ye..." he says to CALLIN. "The rest of ye... wait over there." and he points to an area where other carts and wagons are waiting for morning light. Several small campfires are light as the waiting travelers and merchants keep warm during their wait.
22 Aug
CALLIN: "Ever vigilant in these dark times. The LIGHT is indeed lucky to have such fine outstanding men to stand against the darkness as yourselves! Stay strong, the Light is with you! I shall return shortly" And with that CALLIN will head to the Temple...
22 Aug
The first guard turns smugly to the second one and whacks HIM on the head.
"See? 'E even say I be doin' the right thing. Ye be too soft, ye old quack-head!"
The second guard grumbles and shuts the door behind CALLIN.
--------------------
CALLIN, upon reaching the temple and entering, the night deacon comes to you. "May I help you brother?"
22 Aug
CALLIN: "Indeed brother. I was hoping to find and speak with High Curate Maria"
23 Aug
The deacon, who introduces himself as Marcus, nods to you. "Indeed brother CALLIN, I recognize you, so you may go back to her quarters in the temple. She is here."
A quick trip down the hall, pointed to the lower quarters under the ground level, so you descend down a flight of stairs and into a much more comfortable area than where the deacons are housed. You are pointed to a door, which is slightly ajar. You can see Maria within, in a pose of meditation and prayer.
23 Aug
CALLIN: "Thank you brother Marcus, may the Light always shine upon you". nodding to the man. CALLIN will then wait patiently for Maria to finish her prayer, standing so he is visible from where she is praying. He will clasp his hands, bow his head and pray to the LIGHT himself while he waits. Praying for GRAIAIN and the rest of his friends, for the Elves, and for peace. This land has not seen that in a long long time, but another war is exactly what this land does not need.
23 Aug
Prayer can be a meditative place, a place where one reaches almost a state of being "away"... and this is one of those times. A light from Maria shines, brighter than you've seen in a long time in your prayers and in your "sense of the Divine." It's a warm light, with some heat, but not anything to be afraid of. And it's a welcoming light, a light that would take you in and hold you and all those doubts would wash away...
... as you open your eyes and the High Curate is standing there in front of you with a bemused smile on her face.
"Fall asleep, CALLIN?" she chuckles. "Welcome and may the Light bless you. What brings you here in the middle of the night. Another adventure, perhaps? You had an interesting request last time... I can't imagine what you might have to ask of me now..."
23 Aug
CALLIN: "Not asleep High Curate, simply admiring the Light, and may the Light shine upon you always as well....And yes another adventure has aflicted one of my friends. He has been...changed....He retains his mind, but his body....I have him at the gates wrapped as you would a leper. I have told the guards he has come across a desease that needs cured from the Temple. They requested I bring a Priest out. I was hoping you would be willing to help us once again." CALLIN bows his head to Maria
23 Aug
"Hm." Maria says, looking at you up and down in an appraising manner. "So you're going to be one of those types of priests..." she pauses for a long moment...
... and then breaks out in a smile. "The more interesting type. You were just here not even a tenner ago, and you've got another one? Well, let's see what this is all about. Now, you're not putting any more children in danger, are you?"
She gathers her robes and stands. Taking you by the arm, she and you walk out of the living quarters area, up to the ground floor of the Temple and out into the street. As you walk, she speaks to you in a low voice, asking you about this "change" as you walk to the gates.
23 Aug
CALLIN: "No High Curate, we left the girl Claudia at home on this adventure. And TOBAIS while young, is in charge of the town which we adventure around. I cannot in good concience tell him he is not welcome on his own land. Especially when he has so gratiously allowed me to build a Shrine to spread the LIGHT to his town. As for GRIAIAN, he was reading what looked to be a cursed book that caused him to change into some sort of scaley lizard creature. He can still speak somewhat , but it is the garbled tounge of a goblin. He still seems to have his wits but the symbol of the LIGHT seems to repel him. I fear for him. ANyone pushed away from the LIGHT needs our help more than anyone"
24 Aug
Maria frowns. "Repelled by a holy symbol? That does not bode well, CALLIN. You say he looks like a lizard creature... tell me more about his appearance."
24 Aug
CALLIN: "YES he was repeled by it, but his will overcame that and he seems to be able to be around me. As for his appearance. He has claws on his feet and hands, he seems to have redish scales, yellow eyes and sharp teeth, almost like a demonic lizard.
24 Aug
Maria raises an eyebrow.
"CALLIN, has he acted strangely or out of character?"
25 Aug
CALLIN: "No, other than looking different and having trouble speaking. The poor Elf is driven by knowledge to prevent a war with the elves. I noble goal indeed, but it makes him take foolish risks...but then again anyone worth their weight would do the same for peace. No he hasn't acted out of character...outside of having issues briefly with our symbol of Faith"
26 Aug
Maria stops walking. "War?!" she exclaims. "The elves are talking about war?! With whom??"
26 Aug
CALLIN: "GRAIAN knows more. War with themselves I think. Just another reason we need to get him back to a better state. He is striving for knowledge to push the Elves away from war. They are having discussions behind closed doors, GRAIAIN is the only one I know who can get in there....but not in his current state."
26 Aug
Maria thinks for awhile, and you both step back through the night gate and walk towards the wagon.
"CALLIN, if the elves have a civil war, at this time, this would be devastating to us." Maria says forcefully. "I can't even imagine how bad that would be. I had no idea, none of us do. The Conclave is so secret and private, and none have dared to interfere. Of course I will help your friend, if he could prevent this."
26 Aug
CALLIN: "Thank you High Curate. And I will do whatever I can to help GRAIAN prevent this war from happening."
For the REST OF YOU waiting for CALLIN to return...
24 Aug
You've moved your cart out of the way of the night gate, where there are other carts and wagons waiting to enter the city. A couple of bored town guards walk among the small fires, tents and open bedrolls. Travelers, merchants and other folks sit near the fires or near the wagons, some asleep, some up drinking, socializing, gambling or other things best left under the wagon or in a tent...
You are stopped no more than 5 minutes when a goat comes up to your cart and starts grazing around it, soon to be followed by another goat, and another, and another.... and in short order, ten goats are around your cart. Sniffing, grazing, maa'ing... and here comes an exasperated, rustic looking young man, with several ropes in his hands.
24 Aug
TOBIAS has finally stopped snickering at the guards that kept hitting each other in the head. He's settled into the best spot he could find to watch the other people and try not to get too bored. He watches to see how the goatherder will handle that many goats, wondering if he'll need help.
24 Aug
"Something goat out of hand here!" says the littleling with a chuckle. "Hey, you goat this or need any help?" he calls to the young man.
24 Aug
GRAIAN, despite his situation chuckled to himself at Atacius' mocking.
24 Aug
The man smiles that smile of "Yea, I'm having problems, thanks for laughing at me." and ties two of the goats to the line. He tries to collect a couple more, but they move out of his reach. The two tied together start to chew on the rope.
24 Aug
TAKASHI: "I can help you if needed, friend. There is not much else going on here, is there?"
With that, TAKASHI will attempt to help the man collect some goats. He will nod towards Claudia, if she is still awake.
25 Aug
Claudia hops down and dutifully helps you. Between the three of you, and some nimble moves by Claudia and the boy, all of the goats are eventually secured to the ropes.
"Thank you!" the boy says. He introduces himself as "Othellum". He's a farmer (part of his family) from Northeast of Skalfier. He's here to sell goats.
"Well... I was going to sell them earlier today, but three got loose and I couldn't catch them." he says glumly. He then shoots a smile at Claudia. "Thank you to your Dad and you for helping!"
25 Aug
TAKASHI: "It is our pleasure. It reminds me of when I was a boy on the steppes, bringing in the goats for my father. (*pauses*) So long ago..."
26 Aug
Othellum continues to smile at Claudia and then notices her practice sword.
"Wow, you are going to be a fighter?!" he asks excitedly. "Is your Dad training you?" He points to TAKASHI. "That's really cool, my brothers and I are in the village militia too, but we had to learn from the Sargent who comes to visit us each season for a couple of days. Are you good?"
Claudia blushes, not used to this much attention from a very obviously interested young man. She seems tongue-tied and merely nods to him.
"Your Dad is really lucky! And you're so...." and now the boy gets tongue-tied.
26 Aug
TAKASHI: "Young man, I am not her father but I am her teacher. And she is indeed improving greatly. What is the name of your village, and how far away is it?"
26 Aug
"Oh, I'm sorry!" Othellum says, blushing. "I just thought.. .uhh... are you the one teaching her to be a warrior? Who, me? I live just a bit to the north of here. (He names a minor village.) It's only about a fourth of a day's walk. Easy to do! You should come visit!" He says that last statement directly to Claudia, who blushes again.
26 Aug
TOBIAS sits sullenly, poking at the ground with a stick, feeling the pangs of jealousy for perhaps the first time.
26 Aug
TAKASHI: "Yes, I am her teacher. Currently, we are staying at Master TOBIAS' estate (nods toward TOBIAS) in Appleton. He has been kind enough to offer us shelter after assisting in local matters. Claudia will be very busy over the next year, as she continues to work on her training. No distractions will be permitted by her parents, nor her teacher."
26 Aug
Claudia starts to respond, but listens to TAKASHI. Her eyes widen a bit at when she hears him say "No distractions will be permitted" but she says nothing. She does go back to the wagon, looking slightly deflated.
The boy nods, gulps a "S...s... sorry!" and quite vigorously pulls the goats away from the wagon. After a few minutes, he has returned back towards the other wagons.
You can see CALLIN and Maria approaching, she has a lantern in her hand and they both are deep in discussion. Upon approaching, Maria smiles at you all, with the warmest smile to Claudia.
"Now ... " she says. "Let's take a look here. May I remove the bandage slightly to see?" she asks GRAIAN. She gasps a bit when she sees his clawed hand, but puts on a poker face as she takes in the change.
"Well... that's a first." Maria says. "I guess you really did read the wrong book. We're going to have to take you to the Temple, but I can get you past the guards bandaged. If they thought a demon was among them, it would cause a panic, and probably lead to your death. Are you ready to come with me? Someone will have to stay with the cart until morning, I can't get it in."
26 Aug
TAKASHI will volunteer to stay with the cart.
TAKASHI: "Claudia, if you wish to be distracted by boys, then by all means say so. I was merely trying to deflect what I, perhaps mistakenly, took as unwanted attention. Please forgive me. If you wish to go into Skalfier with the group to get what you and your family requires, I can wait here."
29 Aug
Claudia blushes and ducks her head, so what she says is muffled..
"No Master, it's OK, I will follow your instructions. I have to wait till morning when the markets open both inside and out. I will wait with you." she says. Although she does look towards the area of the wagons that Othellum left to. She then looks at TOBIAS, chews on her bottom lips and makes a point to go back into the cart and lay down on the bedroll to get some sleep.
26 Aug
"GRAIAN, do you want me to deliver any messages to your kin?" the littleling asks before he goes with Maria.
26 Aug
GRAIAN turns to Atacius, "if...I do....n..ot ..re..ttturn...seek ou..t Shai.man of .... the Foam..follo..wers, tell.... him... abou..t ...the... li..bray. He.... will ...nee...d a .... mage... to...open... the ,,, door tell.... him ...everything." With that Graian turns to Maria "I...am... rea..dy"
26 Aug
CALLIN: "TAKASHI...that you for staying with the cart. I will accompany GRAIAN and High Curate Maria to the Temple. Claudia, and ATACIUS you can find us there if you have need."
29 Aug
TOBIAS brushes some of the hair back from his eyes and speaks softly to Maria. "Um, High Curate? Are you sure it won't hurt him? Before, with the holy symbols... he looked uncomfortable..."
As the group starts to head towards Skalfier, TOBIAS looks back one more time towards the cart... and Claudia... before turning and stepping quickly to join the folks heading to town.
1 Sep
29th/30th day of Fall, 56AD
MARIA nods and leads the group towards the gate. At the night gate (which is a small gate built into the large gates that normally open at dawn and close at dusk), she speaks in low tones to the guards, explaining to them that she's taking responsibility "for the poor sick man, but his companions are not infected, thank the Light!"
Both of them quickly allow her and you all to pass, without any head-smacking. They both peer very fearfully but curiously at GRAIAN.
GRAIAN, traveling next to CALLIN felt like a mosquito itch that couldn't be scratched, but being next to Maria is like having a full-blown headache that causes your entire body to throb in pain from time to time. It's very hard to tell why this is, but the part of you that feels alien, different... it seems to be repulsed by Maria. As you get closer to the Temple, that pain increases and increases to where it's almost difficult to take steps to walk up the broad, shallow stairs to the temple entrance. You are sweating, feverish and your limbs are shaking.
Maria looks at GRAIAN with worry and alarm. "CALLIN, are you sure he's still your friend inside and you've not been fooled?"
29 Aug
What do you do?
29 Aug
CALLIN: "Every action he has taken has been true to himself. I'm sure there is something evil inside him, but he is fighting it. He needs the LIGHT on his side for this. To vanquish the evil ripping him up inside."
29 Aug
GRAIAN looks at Maria with pleading eyes
30 Aug
By the time you reach the Temple doors, the buzzing in GRAIAN's head is very loud, almost drowning out the voices of your friends.
"Take him by the arms and bring him in, but don't bring him close to the central pool, go along the wall and follow me!" Maria commands in a brook-no-dispute voice. She marches into the Temple and proceeds to the right around the circular room, staying close to the wall. It will take the two of you to take GRAIAN by the arm and propel him along, as he cannot seem to move on his own.
30 Aug
CALLIN will take the left side staying between GRAIAN and the pool.
30 Aug
TOBIAS follows behind them at a distance, watching out of the corner of his eyes for anyone that might be paying too much attention to GRAIAN.
30 Aug
CALLIN: "TOBIAS...get up here and help me with GRAIAN, take his right side" says CALLIN as quietly as possible back to TOBIAS while he attempts to follow Maria while guiding/dragging GRAIAN
30 Aug
TOBIAS' eyes grow wide and he dashes forward in a run to grab GRAIAN's right arm!
1 Sep
For GRAIAN, the walk past the pool is one of the most painful experiences you've ever had. The hammering in your head, and now the whispers that you've heard now and again are gone, with a shriek replacing them. CALLIN and TOBIAS find that they are dragging GRAIAN as much as propelling him forward. The two night deacons watch open-mouthed, but they stay away after Maria shoots them a look that brooks no argument.
Maria takes you to a door in the wall, which opens to a hallway on the same level. She leads you to a small room down a hallway, the same room that you all were taken when you healed the woman of the Affliction. She motions to CALLIN and TOBIAS to put GRAIAN on a bed.
"Wait here and keep him here!" Maria snaps and she leaves the room, closing the door.
GRAIAN, now that you are here, the pain is less, but it is still present. You can feel CALLIN's holy symbol close to you, and the fear/discomfort is similar to watching an angry stinging insect fly close to you, always present.
After a few minutes, Maria returns, with a prayer book.
"I believe he is suffering from a spell." she says. "I don't believe it's a curse, as that would not have ... changed him so much. I have heard of such spells, they can change a person into a thing, or beast or ... demon. This will take three tens of minutes to pray and weave the blessings of the Light onto him. You should know this... there is a chance that he might not survive as he once was... or even live. The effect that such a spell has on a person is quite severe. Reversing it is just as severe. CALLIN, you will assist with praying with me. We will be reading from the Book of the Nine Prayers."
With that, Maria takes out her holy symbol and opens the book. Standing next to GRAIAN, she holds out her symbol in one hand and holds the book in the other. She begins to pray in the language of the Light, nodding to CALLIN to follow with her.
After a few minutes, the holy symbol begins to glow. After a few more minutes, GRAIAN begins to glow with much the same light.
GRAIAN, this is painful, far more painful that the initial transformation. It is like someone is taking needles and stabbing you with them all over your body, and then slowly withdrawing them. You begin to thrash about the bed, and Maria, without breaking a beat in her ritual prayer, nods to TOBIAS to help hold GRAIAN down. It is difficult, and GRAIAN's blackened, demonic skin feels hot to the touch, but you are able to keep him from falling off the bed.
It seems to take forever for the prayer to happen, but soon enough, the chanting and words come to a crescendo...
(OOC: GRAIAN, make a system shock check, d100 - for your CON of 12, you need to roll 80% or less.)
1 Sep
GRAIAN rolled 1d100 for a total of 15.... Phew!
1 Sep
CALLIN: nods to Maria, and joins her in prayer. Focusing his thoughts to the words, to the prayer....to GRAIAN
1 Sep
TOBIAS is on the verge of tears, seeing GRAIAN in such pain...
6 Sep
GRAIAN, you hear a thin wail in your mind as you feel your body reshape itself. Fortunately, for you, darkness takes over and you fall into unconsciousness.
MARIA sags over GRAIAN's suddenly limp body with a groan. She doesn't move, but merely breathes, in and out, for several minutes.
"Ah, that was not easy." she says in a gravelly voice. "He will sleep for awhile and we will tend to him here. But... judging by his reaction and ... " she reaches to pull back the bandages, revealing the "normal" face of the elf. "... I believe he'll recover fully."
She turns to CALLIN with a weary smile. "That's twice now you've made a difference in someone's life. I can see you're going to be quite the priest before all is said and done. That's good, little brother... very good. Keep it up. The Light bless you and keep you in the shining grace that you can then bring to others. And now.. I need a drink!"
With that, she moves unsteadily from the small room, calling out for a deacon. When one approaches, she leaves instructions for the aftercare of GRAIAN - drink, rest and a watch that his recovery is permanent.
GRAIAN appears to be sleeping now.
6 Sep
CALLIN: "Thank you High Curate, for helping my friend, and for your kind words. I do what I can to Shine the LIGHT upon the world, and cast down the darkness....And if there is anything I can ever do for you High Curate, you have only to ask!" With that CALLIN will give her a deep bow, and then stay by GRAIAN's side until he wakes. Always good to wake up with a friend near by....
6 Sep
TOBIAS watches Maria admiringly as she walks out...
6 Sep
(The wakeup will happen about midmorning. Are you both going to stay with Graian? If so, I'll take the others through the morning activities until we get to the same time and bring you into the narrative.)
7 Sep
CALLIN will stay with him until he wakes.
8 Sep
CALLIN - will you prevent TOBIAS from leaving? Or will you tell him where to go? Or just let him go? Or ... ?
8 Sep
TOBIAS gets bored and tries to wander the hallways of the temple, looking for anything interesting.
8 Sep
CALLIN: as TOBIAS gets up to leave. "Where are you going young TOBIAS? Remember we are in private rooms of the temple, you cannot simply go where you wish without an escort. I can have someone take you to the common area if you wish to meet up with Claud....umm the rest of the group."
8 Sep
TOBIAS makes a face and walks back into the room. He sits down with an over-exaggerated sigh.
8 Sep
CALLIN: "TOBIAS....patience, is a skill. A skill that must be praticed and honed. If you truely wish to tame the magical arts, you must learn this skill." CALLIN pauses for tone. "Have you tried meditation to clear you thoughts? It might help you ease your tension. It has been a grueling few days, it might be good to take time for quiet reflection. Will you join me?"
8 Sep
TOBIAS blows out his lips. "But CALLIN, it's not fair! I finally get a chance to see the city, and I'm stuck in here. If I could look around, maybe I could find the Mage's Guild, or an Elf's library, or some magic wands, or..." He slumps his shoulders. "Oh, alright. What do I have to do, close my eyes and hum, or something?"
8 Sep
CALLIN smiles at TOBIAS: "Let's first identify the issue. You wish to seek knowledge by joining a Mage's Guild, or perhaps magical impliments correct?.... Let me ask you this then. What do you have to offer a mages guild that will provide you membership? As for the Elves library, if you are not an Elf yourself they will not even consider letting you in, so you must wait for GRIAIAN. As for magical devices, magic is not commonplace in this world and in some cases is feared. I doubt you will find someone dealing in such items in the market, and anyone you do find, will most likely attempt to swindle you, soley because of your youth. You are a good man TOBIAS, and you have much to offer this world, but you have to have the right mindset to move forward. Patience will help you see things clearly. As for meditation, start by closing your eyes, slow your breathing, and focus on all that is good in your life, good in this world, all that is hope, love and kindness....." CALLIN pauses for TOBIAS to begin. Once his breathing slows CALLIN will continue. "This, this is the LIGHT. Let it calm you, embrace it and let it hone your thoughts, let it ease your fears, and release the tension." CALLIN will close his eyes, slow his breathing and focus his thoughts and prayers on TOBIAS.
8 Sep
TOBIAS closes his eyes and as he begins to breathe, his face appears more relaxed. His shoulders and body seem less tense as his breathing slows and deepens... for a few minutes. Then suddenly, "But I just want to SEE them, Callin! C'mon, I can take care of myself..."
8 Sep
CALLIN: opens his eyes frowning. "Which Them do you wish to see TOBIAS? And to be clear, I never said you can't take care of yourself. You most certainly can. And if you wish to leave and explore the city, I would never stop you. You are a free man and no slave to anyone. So if you wish to go, I will be more than happy to have a decon escort you to the common area of the temple, and you can explore the city as you choose. I will stay here and await GRAIAN to awake."
8 Sep
TOBIAS smiles. "Yes, please! I'll be right back."
8 Sep
CALLIN will get a decon and ask him to escore TOBAIS back to the common area of the temple so he can go off on his adventures.
12 Sep
At this point in time, it is still early in the morning, pre-dawn by a couple of hours. The night deacon, with a knowing wink (to CALLIN), takes TOBIAS to a room full of prayer books and texts on the Light, to allow him to sate his curiosity on things while waiting for the dawn.
For TAKASHI, ATACIUS and Claudia...
1 Sep
The sounds of Claudia sleeping soon rise from the rear of the cart. Over where the other carts and wagons are parked, the sounds of talking and gambling are quieting, being replaced by the sounds of camp fires, or the weary tread of the two town guards who have the duty of keeping watch. Some domestic animal sounds can be heard, as can the arguing of the two gate guards about the "Curate and that strange bandaged man."
It is quiet... and there are many wagons around...
(OOC: This is not a push for you to do anything! I'm merely giving you an option if you'd rather not be bored... or if you'd like to take a rest, that's fine too. :> )
1 Sep
TAKASHI: "When we get back to Appleton, it would be interesting to see how many coins were in that buried chest we found, ATACIUS. If nothing else, it might help TOBIAS maintain the village and its surroundings for some time."
12 Sep
30th day of Fall, 56AD
TAKASHI/ATACIUS/Claudia
The dawn comes with the sounds of the great gates in the North and Western walls of Skalfier opening. Merchants, drovers, cart drivers and others have already been waking up with groans, curses and the talk of merchants and farmers preparing for market or trade.
Claudia tells TAKASHI and ATACIUS that she needs to visit several of the merchants in the Westedge neighborhood and the bigger open air markets near the docks. She is not afraid to go alone, having done this trip before with her parents or other adults.
"Besides, Master... you have trained me to avoid a fight." she smiles. "If you have things to do, I can meet you at the gates at sunset."
You catch a very quick and surreptitious glance from her towards Othellum, who you see is guiding his goats carefully through the gate.
12 Sep
TAKASHI/ATACIUS here.
12 Sep
TAKASHI: "If your parents would allow you to roam unsupervised within the city walls, then I think that you have earned a day off from my presence. If you need to find us for any reason, I'd ask for CALLIN at the church of the light. Failing that, GRAIAN, if he is recovered, will most likely be meeting with the Elves at their conclave.
ATACIUS, where do you need to go?"
12 Sep
Claudia blushes and says "Well.. Master TAKASHI... they've not let me go alone to the docks butIknowmywayaroundandIknowhowtoprotectmyselfandit'llbeOK,please?!?!"
12 Sep
ATACIUS gives a hearty laugh at Caludia's plead. "Go kid, he already said you earned it."
"I thought about what you said last night TAKASHI, and yes, we could use those coins to upgrade the village defenses. Maybe start with a watchtower and then a palisade. I mean, with the bandits and orcs roaming the area you can't be too careful right?", he says as they watch Claudia go her way.
"But for now I'll settle for some breakfast before checking on GRAIAN. What do you say? It's on me."
12 Sep
Claudia beams at ATACIUS, but waits for TAKASHI's reply, chewing her lip.
12 Sep
TAKASHI looks towards Claudia, thoughtfully.
TAKASHI: "You have stood bravely in the face of danger already, Claudia. If I can trust you to do that, then I think I can trust you to act wisely in the city. Stay on your guard in the city, as not all are as they seem. No off you go!
ATACIUS, breakfast is something I think we can both agree on this morning! I'm famished."
13 Sep
ATACIUS and TAKASHI go into town looking for a place to eat, maybe near the Temple of Light.
13 Sep
Claudia jumps from her seat and gives TAKASHI a big hug.
"I will, Master, don't you worry! I will meet you by last-third sun! (thats when the sun is between midday and sundown.) At the temple! Thank you!" and with that, she gives the reins a good shake and the horse moves forward. She follows the traffic through the gate, heading to the market places and areas where carts are stored.
After a few minutes, you realize this means you'll have to walk into Skalfier... your ride just went that-away. In teen-age excitement.
There are a few street vendors and the equivalent of coffee-shops, which sell hintea, the beverage sold that is comparable to coffee. For 1 silver, you both receive steaming cheap mugs full of strong hintea, with plenty of honey or spices in small bowls to dish into your mugs. For another 2 coppers each, you can get a large hunk of bread with butter and a fruit topping.
The street sweepers are busy with their morning rounds and deliveries are being made to various stores. There is a brisk traffic going into the Temple for morning prayers - the sunlight gleaming off of the white marble and gold trim on the gorgeous building.
13 Sep
ATACIUS will chose the one he thinks has the better offer, and pay 3 silver for both, asking right-out-of-the-oven bread and extra butter and topping!
13 Sep
Although you get the typical response from the human seller (covering up the purse), they are more than happy to take your silver and indeed you get a very hot piece of bread, dripping with butter and melting topping.
13 Sep
TAKASHI: "Thank you for the breakfast, ATACIUS. This certaily hits the spot after a cold night spent outside the city gates. Shall we visit the temple and see if GRAIAN is back to his old self? Or is there something else you need to do first?"
13 Sep
ATACIUS: "You're welcome! Yes, let's go check on GRAIAN now." The littleling is clearly on a good mood with a full belly.
13 Sep
ATACIUS will try to eavesdrop any interesting rumors while having breakfast.
14 Sep
You overhear a conversation that an adventuring party was asking a lot of questions about the hills and badlands to the NE of Skalfier. The person talking wasn't sure, but she thought they might have a map.
14 Sep
The conversation is soon ended though, and the three customers get up to leave the hintea shop.
14 Sep
Is there anyhing distinctive about any of them?
14 Sep
No, three women, plain looking - probably craftworkers or tradesworkers, you figure by their attire.
14 Sep
TAKASHI: "I saw your ears perk up a bit there, ATACIUS. Anything interesting?"
14 Sep
ATACIUS blushes a bit at TAKASHI's remark, but quickly regains his cheerful demeanor. "Didn't you hear it?" he rolls his eyes. "Looks like there's another group of adventurers out there..." he says in low tones grabbing TAKASHI's sleeve and pulling down. "They've been asking around about the badlands and hills to the NE." he adds excited. "Apparently they even have a map!" the littleling voice almost a whisper.
15 Sep
TAKASHI: "Maps are certainly interesting things, and when accurate, can be worth more than buried treasure to the right people. I wonder what is of interest to them in that area..."
15 Sep
The three women leave the hintea shop. It is still early, though from the sounds nearby coming from the Temple, prayers are in full session. What would you like to do? Follow the women? Look for your companions? Other things?
15 Sep
TAKASHI: "Well ATACIUS, shall we try and find the others? Or is there something else that is more pressing?"
15 Sep
ATACIUS: "Yes, let's check on our friends."
CALLIN/TOBIAS/GRAIAN
The books are more than enough of a sleep inducer to put TOBIAS to rest. The sun has already risen for a bit of time and GRAIAN wakes, to a headache, but feeling very much like himself. Once you all are ready to leave, a deacon will wake TOBIAS and bring him to you both. Maria is still resting in her quarters after the late night.
12 Sep
CALLIN/TOBIAS/GRAIAN here.
12 Sep
TOBIAS wakes with a long yawn and a stretch in the chair he fell asleep in, as a book falls off his lap and clatters to the floor. He leaps to his feat as awareness dawns on him, practically hopping up and down waiting for the deacon to turn around and take him back. He follows the deacon most of the way back, then rushes forward the last dozen feet to run into the room with GRAIAN and CALLIN. Seeing everyone awake and seemingly ok, he laughs and shouts, "Alright!!"
12 Sep
CALLIN: "Good Morning GRAIAN! It is good to see YOU again! How are you feeling? It seems the Light has once again banished the darkness!"
12 Sep
CALLIN: "And good morning to you TOBIAS! I hope you had a fun evening of adventure!" Callin says with a hint of sarcasim in his tone.
12 Sep
TOBIAS: "Well, the deacon showed me a library, but it was just a bunch of silly Light stuff..." He makes a face, but it is quickly replaced with a look of excitement. "Hey, why don't we all go and look at the city this morning? What do you say?"
12 Sep
CALLIN: "Well I am more than happy to explore the city, perhaps grab some food. Of course it would depend on how GRAIAN is feeling today." Callin looks to GRAIAN
12 Sep
GRAIAN looks around and stretches out his arms.... no more claws, he brings his hands to his face, yes it feels like his own. He answers Callin "Well better than before, but my what a headache. Food sounds like a wondferful thing, but do we have some water to hand, I feel like I have been dragged through a hedge backwards." As Tobias' excitement and enthusiastic voice sinks in, "So you have been reading all night, none of the tomes we recovered though from the sounds of it.' Winking at Callin, "Be careful not to be led astray by other types......"
13 Sep
There is water next to you, helpfully put there by one of the deacons. CALLIN, you would be able to escort GRAIAN and TOBIAS to the mealroom, since you are bringing them. Or you can go out into the town of Skalfier....
13 Sep
CALLIN: "Let us get some food. We can dine in the mealroom of the temple. There we can discuss what our next steps are" With that CALLIN will rise and offer a hand to GRAIAN.
13 Sep
TOBIAS gets ready to go to the mealroom. He picks up his backpack and checks to see that the books he brought along are still in there.
13 Sep
The fare is simple, but fresh - breads, cereals made into porridges, some of the local fruits and vegetables, and the ever-present fish-paste which the locals love to put on bread. Honies and spices for the hinteas and waters.
TOBIAS, the book you grabbed - "A survey of elven mystical practices and their originations in the aetherical practices" is a very densely written tome. In the short time you had to flip through it, it seems to talk about how elves are the same and different from humans in how they practice and "interpret" magick. It's very hard to read, both in the way it was written and the (many) words that you just don't understand.
CALLIN, after awhile, you see the deacons cleaning up and leaving, indicating that the early-day meal is over. Several make sure to come by you, greeting you warmly with smiles, although more than one quickly looks around to see who else is watching.
GRAIAN, the one thing you notice is that those whispers are long gone. It almost feels odd to not hear them, like the echoes of a tooth ache that has gone away, but you remember...
13 Sep
"Master GRAIAN," TOBIAS says, holding the book up to him, "do you feel well enough to take a look at this? I think it might help when we go to talk to the other elfs." (He watches GRAIAN closely for his reaction when he says, "we.")
14 Sep
GRAIAN, the book that TOBIAS shoves in your face (because, excited teenage boys, you know....), much to your surprise, has an elven author named on it. Which explains why it is hard for TOBIAS to read it, as elven script is densely packed when written and if an elf was writing in the human tongue, it would still reflect some of the old elven writing style and prose.
15 Sep
GRAIAN takes the book gently from the thrusting hands of Tobias and looks at it, "I am afraid you will not be able to join me at the Conclave. If there are discussions outside then perhaps we can meet togther. This is an interesting book, obviously an Elven author so it's presence in the area suggests there could be more to learn. This might be enough to at least persuade those wavering towards war to hold off and defeat those warmongerers" Pausing to open the book, "Hmm, some time indeed is needed to look at this. However, I must head over to the Conclave and see what the situation is."
15 Sep
As you discuss, you can hear from the main hall that prayers are in full swing.
GRAIAN, if you wish to go to Conclave, we can move that to the private thread.
16 Sep
CALLIN: will greet all the deacons as well. And when they begin cleaning up CALLIN will dismiss himself and help with the chores. When he is finished he will tell his friends that he will join morning prayers and catch up with them after.
16 Sep
The deacons and lay-folks are all pleased by CALLIN helping out.
Morning prayers are led by a priest of slightly higher rank than yourself, a Brother Gorgines. His morning sermon is about the hope of Skalfier rebuilding, despite what seems to be a poor harvest. He stumbles a bit, but his heart is good and the prayers end on a positive note. You even hear a whisper or two of appreciation instead of "Doom and Gloom Deneb" from some of the worshipers.
TOBIAS, you and GRAIAN meet ATACIUS and TAKASHI on the steps.
16 Sep
TOBIAS, looking glum after being denied a visit to the Conclave, perks up upon seeing ATACIUS and TAKASHI, and pulls some of the hair back from his face to address them: "Hey, guys! Can I go with you to see the city? I can't go with GRAIAN." Looking around, he adds, "Where did Claudia go?" a little too nonchalantly.
16 Sep
TAKASHI: "Claudia was charged with running some errands for her family, so she is off taking care of those right now... I hope. If she can face the damned with us, then I guess she should be able to handle some merchants on the streets of Skalfier. How is GRAIAN doing?"
16 Sep
TOBIAS: "So she's... by herself? Oh, GRAIAN's doing ok, he's back to looking normal, see? I think he's just got a bit of a headache still..."
16 Sep
TAKASHI: "Yes, he looks as if he's been ridden hard and put away wet. Still, he does look better than he did last night..."
TAKASHI chuckles a bit as he pokes fun as the demon-elf winces in still obvious discomfort.
TAKASHI: "Where to now? And what of brother CALLIN? Has the church finally recalled their most fervent brother to be locked up within the temple's walls?"
17 Sep
GRAIAN looks at Takashi "True, I do look better than last night, thanks to you my friends, I believe there will not be any long lasting effects. Now I must return to the Golden Coach and see if I can help change the direction they were heading towards war. I will return to the Merchant's Guild later, hopfully before lunch."
19 Sep
GRAIAN
The Golden Coach is the same as it was 10 days ago, mostly empty of customers. The banners are still out front, indicating the Conclave is in session. The Inn keeper has a look on his face when you enter, a face that can only be described as bored. He looks eagerly at you as you enter, providing him with something to do.
"Ah, s'ahr, it's good ta see ye. All be well w'ye?" he asks. Without missing a beat, he then adds, "Just as a mention, s'ahr, ye room is up t'day and it would be the same price as before, ten crowns for a tenner, or eighteen crowns for two-tenner. What be ye pleasure?"
The door to the meeting room is ominously open and you don't hear much activity beyond.
Once you're done with the Innkeeper, you walk in through the door. The elf at the door, the same dour looking individual, looks up bored at you and doesn't even announce your name. Only a couple of elves are sitting in the location that the Seadreamers had been sitting in, with only Shaiman sitting on the other side, by himself. He looks up at you and his sad face breaks into a hopeful smile. He motions slightly to you. The Seadreamer elves look up and have guarded looks but are clearly curious about you.
19 Sep
Once you are next to Shaiman, he smiles at you. "Graian, brother, the waves bring you at the most needed time. I worried since it has been ten days since we've seen you. I trust all is well? What news do you bring from this library? Hopefully an answer to our problems, as they are many!"
22 Sep
GRAIAN returns the smile, but his face shows concern at the sad look he saw on his friend's face. "I have much to tell you, most importantly we believe we have found the library, unfortuantely circumstances prevented us from carrying out a full search but we did get this, and others." Pulling out the book he hands it to Shaiman, "There were many scrolls and tomes, unfortunately many were in very poor condition, however I am sure there is more to find that will help us in our search for our true home. What is happening here?"
22 Sep
Shaiman takes the book from you, but doesn't open it yet. He motions for you to sit.
"My friend, I am glad to hear your words. It has... not gone well. Vinalin, the leader of the Seadreamer delegation, gained enough support to force a vote. It was a split vote, however. It would seem that we have declared "No Search" shall be done this ten year, which does not bode well for us. However, he did not have enough vote to declare for war, so there is good news. He will not yet permit a call to "adjourn" which means that he works still to have his war!"
Shaiman shakes his head.
"Vinalin would see us draw swords with the humans today, if it were up to him. So, we languish. He works behind the scenes to sway for votes, and I am unable to call for an adjournment, so we appear deadlocked. Such foolishness!" he says bitterly.
Shaiman looks at the book. "Still... let us see what you have here. Written by an elf, interesting..."
He flips open the cover and looks at the front page with some surprise. "Look, GRAIAN... this was written in the 2,400s! That is well before the calamity! And... " his voice rises. "... it was written by someone from Ramathia!"
Indeed, the front page lists the author as an "Arondil of Ramathia, Mage of the Third Order, member of the Southway Crew."
Shaiman flips through the book, not so much reading the dense writing as to just view it. He then sits back for a few minutes, thinking. He then takes a deep breath.
"My friend, you have given me some hope that you are on the right track. When we started the Conclave, it was to seek out Ramathia and look for records that might point to where our Home is. We know that elves lived there long before the humans came and we gave the island to them. Some say it might even be the site of the First Landfall. If that were true, it might help us to find out where we came from!"
Shaiman stands. "We had heard of this Athenum, but foolishly, rather than seek out human help, Vinalin sent out the first part of Seekers... and they were lost. Now that you've found this place... you could take some Seekers with you... and we might be able to help you overcome any .. circumstances. Wait here a moment."
Shaiman takes the book and walks over to the other side of the room. "Tanalus! Call Vinalin at once and reconvene the Conclave. I bring news of some import!"
------------
Events happen quickly. Within one bell's watch, the elves return to their seats, curiosity on their faces. A tall, almost white-haired, slender elf walks in last, followed by the dour door elf, who shuts the door.
"So, we are all here, Shaiman. What is this... 'news' you are crowing about?" the tall white-haired elf sneers.
"Tah avaf, Vinalin" Shaiman responds. "Be at peace, at least for the moment. My fellow crew members, we have sat here without answers for far too long, a rudderless ship caught in the doldrums and becalmed without winds. I bring news that winds are coming, that we have a direction and possibly the answers that we sought when we first convened."
"This elf (Shaiman points to you), Graian of the Meliamne clan, has done what others did not. With the help of his companions, he has found the rumored library. Even more, he has brought proof that whoever stocked this library had books written by elves... and from Ramathia!"
Shaiman dramatically tosses the book onto the table in front of Vinalin, it lands with a loud THUMP! At this, the other elves begin to talk excitedly, their voices drowning out each other until it is a cacophony. Several of the Foamfollow faction come over and pat you on the back, each talking to you at the same time. Vinalin picks up the book and thumbs through it and then picks up the stone clapper and bangs it many times to silence the meeting.
"A magic book... " he says in a mocking voice. "You would have us believe that all our answers are from a dull text on elven magic?"
"No Vinalin, that book is not the answer. But Graian and his companion say that the library is large and they have only been in one part of it. We know that the library was difficult to find, that it was founded by a powerful human mage and now we see that this mage had books from Ramathia and by elves. You sent out Seekers back in the early days of the Conclave, without any sure footing or steady winds. Now, I say to you, this one (Shaiman points to GRAIAN) can guide our Seekers there and find the proof we seek... that there is elven history to be found in Ramathia!"
(Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 4, 3 on 2d6 +2 for a total of 9) (Michael S (chgowiz) rolled 1d6 for a total of 6)
GRAIAN, you see that even on the Seadreamer side of the table, there are great many now nodding in agreement with Shaiman. Vinalin sees this as well and the angry, almost hateful look he shoots YOUR way is not hard to miss. Voices rise again, and now there is a clear direction rising... "Yes, send Seekers." "Seekers must go!" "Yes, send them!"
Vinalin raises his hand for silence.
"Well... Shaiman, it seems that for once in this never-ending Conclave, you have made some sense. Yes, we will organize a party of Seekers and have this... Graian... lead them to this library. He will guide them within and we shall see if your precious answers are there."
A motion is quickly made and a huge majority vote in favor of the Seekers. A cheer goes up on the Foamfollower side of the table, but Vinalin sits, brooding... and continuing to shoot daggers out of his eyes at you, GRAIAN.
---------------
It is early evening, with the sun dimming outside and candles being lit, and the day's meeting is finally ended. In a bitter war of words, Vinalin and Shaiman eventually hammered out that eight Seekers would accompany you, GRAIAN to go to the Athenum. Four will be Seadreamers, four will be Foamfollower. The hardest part of the meeting was Vinalin's resistance to "the filth-pig companions" that you have (meaning TAKASHI, TOBIAS and CALLIN) with you, but at the end of the day, Shaiman was able to make it happen. The Seekers will be ready to depart in two days, after outfitting. They will bring a cart, horses and be fully equipped.
24 Sep
GRAIAN: After the proceedings have concluded Graian turns to Shaiman "Well my friend you have averted a great tragedy and given hope to our people with your diplomacy and skill. Now we are about to start a new beginning, which will hopefully mark the end of the long search for our homeland."
26 Sep
"It may be a beginning, or it could be the denouement of Vinalin's efforts to bring war." Shaiman says in a worried voice. "If you are not successful in bringing back convincing proof that Ramathia contains information on our origins, the disappointment may be enough to swing things decisively his way. We are at the crest of the wave, and whether we ride it down or fall down is still to be seen. Much rests on your shoulders, Graian. You've done well for your family and clan. The Foamfollowers will not forget this."
He stands.
"Be here in two days and we will see you off." He bows low and exits the meeting room to go upstairs.
27 Sep
GRAIAN returns the bow and decides to head to teh Merchants Guild, even though much later than he expected, his friends may still be there.
The rest
The town of Skalfier lies before you, having woken up to a full day. Foot and hand-push/pulled carts go past. There are sounds of sellers in the streets. From the Westedge neighborhood, there is the sounds of hammering, construction and repairs continue on the stricken area from the freakish snow storm and avalanche. From the docks to the south, you hear bells and can see the masts of ships in harbor. Further out, the waters of the Pashar Sea gleam in the light, several smaller boats can be seen.
19 Sep
What will you do?
19 Sep
CALLIN: will speak with Brother Gorgines after service. "Excellent sermon today Brother. I am Callin. It is pleasure to meet you. May the Light shine upon you this day and always." Callin also adds a small bow to the brother as a sign of respect.
19 Sep
Brother Gorgines smiles. "Light bless you, Brother Callin. It is a pleasure to meet you. I've heard quite a bit about you. I hear that you have helped quite a few of our flock already, and as an independent. It is wonderful to see that energy and zeal in one's mission. Are you staying with us today or back off on more adventures?" He asks that last question with a tone of ... envy, perhaps?
19 Sep
CALLIN: "I am only doing my part to spread the Light and root out the Darkness. I find it is easier to do that when out adventuring. It seems adventurers have a knack from finding dens of darkness" Callin says with a smile. "Yes I think I will be heading out to town today to meet up with the rest of my group, to see where our next adventure takes us. If you would ever like to come with us on an adventure you are always welcome Brother."
19 Sep
"Oh that I could..." Gorgines says wistfully. "But Otollum keeps me busy here in the Temple, helping Maria to ensure everything runs smoothly. And then there's Deneb... " and his voice trails off and you see his mouth curl just a tiny bit before he continues "... but thank you again, Brother, what a wonderful offer. However, if you ever seen an opportunity for one of the new Acolytes to join you, that would be excellent! I'm sure they could learn a lot from your example."
"Good luck to you and may the Light continue to shine the way through the Darkness for you."
19 Sep
CALLIN: "Of course! Acolytes would be wonderful accompanyment on our next adventure! Thank you Brother Gorgines! And may the Light shine upon thee as well!" With that CALLIN will leave the Temple and find the rest of the group.
19 Sep
While we wait for CALLIN to come out the church, ATACIUS will talk with TOBIAS and TAKASHI.
"TOBIAS, last night, we were talking with TAKASHI, that it would be a good idea to see how many coins there are in that chest we found. It would be wise to use them for the good of Appleton. My advice would be to find out how much would cost to build a wooden watchtower. That way we could have at least an early warning in case the orcs or the bandits come. The next step would be a palisade. What do you think?"
19 Sep
TOBIAS frowns in thought. "Sir Flinigan never said anything about that, I think he always felt like he could fight off the bandits without any help. But if there are orcs, and those sick ones like what we found out by the sheds, maybe it's a good idea, ATACIUS. We could find out how much it could cost to build, anyway..."
19 Sep
TAKASHI: "It is something to think about, at the least. With the village a good distance away from any significant help, it would be wise to make it as difficult to threaten as possible. If nothing else, it may cause predators to seek easier prey than Appleton.
What shall we do in the city? I would not mind seeing if I could acquire a stout bow, quiver, and arrows."
20 Sep
Some inquiries lead you over to the Westedge neighborhood, to the south of it, away from the rebuilding. Soon enough, you are in front of a plan home but with what looks like a beautiful garden in back. You can't quite see into it, but can see the fading flowers and ivy vines over the tall fence. You can definitely hear the "twang" and "thunk" of arrows being shot from the garden though.
Walking into the shop, it is a clean and extremely well-organized shop. On one side is a man of black skin assembling the fletch onto arrows. His fingers nimbly glue, attach and tie the feathers as he hums a tune. On the other side of the shop is a very well stocked bowyer's bench, with several bows of short and long type hanging. Other equipment is on the back wall.
"Come in, look around, let me know if you see anything you like!" the man sing-songs, but without missing a beat on his fletching.
A few moments later, a black-skinned woman comes in... "Waqqa, I thought I heard... ah, hello!" she says in a whisper. "Welcome to my shop. I am Shaya. If there is anything you need, let me know." She puts the gorgeous bow, what appears to be a short composite bow of a design you've never seen before, on the bench and begins to adjust it.
20 Sep
TAKASHI: "Good day to you both. I am looking for a bow and quiver full of arrows for long range discouragement of bestials, so accuracy and stopping power are extremely important for me. I'd also be interested in a short bow capable of being drawn by a young lady, for my student."
20 Sep
Shaya nods carefully.
"I see..." she says (in a whisper - it seems that is how she talks) "... most folks here are looking for game hunting or perhaps to discourage bandits. Stopping Orcs... that is another matter altogether. Come here please."
With that, she takes the time to measure your arm, your draw, look at your stance (which she corrects, and then corrects, and then corrects again, much like a sculptor), and have you hold several bow blanks to assess weight. She also has a small stand where you pull on a string to lift a weight. She asks about what you currently use. With a satisfied nod, she steps back.
"A warrior's stance, not completely correct, but not bad either." she muses. "Stopping an Orc in it's tracks takes power and strength. I am sorry, but I don't believe that your strength would add much to what a composite bow would give you. You have to have the strength of a Legionnaire for those, and a short composite bow probably would not be of benefit to you either. So, I will say that you should use a short bow. You seem to be one who will not stay at long range, and you will still be able to fire quickly with this. Would you agree?"
As she's speaking to you, she's pulling down several lovely bows, all of stained woods with metal trim. They are all very well made. Her fingers run over each, as you can see she's checking each one.
20 Sep
TAKASHI: "You have an excellent eye, Shaya - your husband must be special, indeed! I agree with everything you have said, and trust your experience
20 Sep
Waqqa lets out a booming laugh and glances with some wry affection at Shaya. "Don't let her whisper or her words fool you... I am very lucky indeed to find such a skilled warrior!"
Shaya nods and glances tolerantly at her husband. "And he would have you think that he had anything to do with catching me... rather the other way around, with his honied tongue and ways with the men and women..." to which Waqqa's skin darkens as he blushes and he goes back to studiously working on the fletches.
"Well, my friend, then I would say that twenty gold crowns would suffice for... " and she lifts up a bow with a lighter coloring, but balanced and as you lift it, it seems to feel like part of your arm. Shaya watches approvingly.
"The arm protector will cost eight silver crowns, a quiver is one gold crown and arrows... which my husband has a good hand and eye for... will cost you another two gold crowns. For you, and your courtesy, I will make it an even twenty three and five. A bargain for a good bow, which if it does not fit your arm or something is wrong, you will bring it back and I will stand by my quality."
"And for your student... I would not sell you something that is not for her -- bring her by before sundown and I will ensure she is well protected."
20 Sep
TAKASHI counts out 23 gold pieces, and adds 5 pieces of silver to the sizable stack.
TAKASHI: "Blessings to you and Waqqa. I shall return later today with my student, time permitting. You have a fine establishment here, and your craftsmanship appears to be exceptional. I look forward to testing out the bow soon.
20 Sep
Shaya raises her hands to her heart and then to her forehead and then out open to you - a common gesture of those who are fervent in their faith in the Light.
"May the Light shine your path." she whispers. "I think I will enjoy meeting your student, if she has taken on her Master's courtesy."
TOBIAS, ATACIUS - where to next?"
21 Sep
TOBIAS smiles, "How about the library?"
22 Sep
TAKASHI: "That is fine with me, TOBIAS. I have nothing else to take care of until the time we are to rendezvous with Claudia."
23 Sep
Tobias - do you mean the Guild library (I'm not sure you've visited that earlier) or a different library? Libraries in my world are usually private collections - or at a place like the Temple, Guild Hall, or universities.
23 Sep
(I don't think Tobias would know, he's just hoping that a big city like this has a big library somewhere. He really just wants to explore. We could just say we're doing that until it's time to go meet Claudia unless somebody else has something specific they want to do.)
23 Sep
No worries, if he asks about libraries, he'd most likely be directed to the Guild Hall, which is the commercial center (and some would say the political center) of Skalfier.
26 Sep
The visit to the Guild Hall opens TOBIAS's eyes to a whole new world. The merchants entering and exiting the main hall with the clerks and journeymen bustling around. The Job Hall with the many boards of help wanted/help available signs. The opulence of the Guild's decorations and architecture. There is quite a bit to see here that is amazing to behold.
28 Sep
30th day of Fall, 56 AD - Early evening
As the rest of you leave the Merchants Guild, you run into GRAIAN who is walking towards the Guild Hall. The doors are closing for the evening, just as the taverns and watering holes are opening for the evening. The early rush for home or entertainment fills the streets, and the calls of the fishermen coming back from their day's outing can be heard from the docks.
27 Sep
Claudia, whether through wit or previous arrangement, also meets up with you at the Guild hall. She is all smiles and chatters quite a bit to anyone who will listen about the Marketplace, the merchants, the docks, the city... it's been her first time alone in Skalfier which seems to be a huge city to her.
27 Sep
TOBIAS' eyes light up when Claudia rejoins the group. He watches, grinning, his face half hidden with hair, as she speaks, feeling much the way she does about being in the city. He waits for his chance to jump in and talk about what he's seen, and brag about how he "helped" to get GRAIAN back to normal.
27 Sep
Claudia listens and smiles at Tobias. "Wow, you were amazing! He doesn't look like anything happened to him at all!" she says in an admiring voice. "Pretty soon, you'll be more than able to protect the village!"
27 Sep
Tobias blushes a bit, but smiles shyly.
27 Sep
TAKASHI: "Claudia and I need to run down to the bowyer and fletcher quickly. Where shall we meet you all when we are done? Or, if any of you have need for their wares, the married couple who run the shop seem very knowledgeable and helpful."
27 Sep
Claudia turns to Takashi. "The bowyer? What for, Master?" She eagerly comes over and stands ready to follow.
27 Sep
TAKASHI: "A warrior should always be familiar with a ranged weapon. So far, we have neglected that portion of your training, focusing on the up close and personal melee. Today, we remedy that situation. I have found a nice bow for myself, and I want to find one appropriate for you to begin practicing. It has practical use as well, such as for hunting at home or while travelling."
27 Sep
CALLIN: ( Assuming he has caught up with the group) "Perhaps we should all meet at local pub for drinks. Do you happen to recal what establishment High Curate Maria favored? It seems like good as place as any."
27 Sep
TAKASHI: "That was a rather rough spot, but was ideal for Maria's evangelism, I think. How about the Captain's Quarters?"
27 Sep
CALLIN: "The Captain's Quarters works as well"
27 Sep
Claudia's eyes widen and she claps her hands.
"Oh Master, that would be wonderful! But... I don't have the coin for such..." and she catches the look on your face and her mouth makes an "O" of surprise.
"I don't know what to say... " she whispers, surprised.
The trip back to Shaya and Waqqa's shop is quick. This time, Waqqa smiles and points out back. "She will want to see your student out there first, warrior. And welcome, student!" he beams to Claudia, who curtseys politely in return.
Out back, it is a beautiful garden of flowers, herbs and small, strange statuettes in martial poses. The center of a garden is a target range with several circular hay/leather targets set up. Shaya is standing and shooting at the furthest target. All of you are able to crowd at the end of the garden to stay out of the way.
Shaya nods to TAKASHI. "Welcome again, warrior. I see you have brought your student." she whispers and looks closely at Claudia, who seems a bit nonplussed at the intense stare. "I am Shaya, and you are well come. You are.. ?"
Claudia whispers back "Claudia..." and Shaya laughs. "My child, this is from an old illness, which long ago took my voice, but spared my life. So instead of singing with my throat, I sing with the arrows that I fire." she explains. Claudia nods.
Shaya looks at TAKASHI again. "May I put your student through some exercises?" (Assuming you've said yes...)
27 Sep
TAKASHI: "Absolutely, Shaya. Your expertise is why I have brought her to you."
For the next hour or so, Shaya puts Claudia through several exercises to test her handed-ness, her vision, her ability to hold a bow and to shoot. Claudia seems to show an aptitude with the bow, hitting the closest target several times after some instruction. During it, they talk much, and you realize that Shaya is finding out much about Claudia and her life and dreams.
Finally, Shaya steps back and nods. "Excellent. You are a good student and you listen. You do not assume you know what to do and you allow yourself to be corrected. That will suit you well in life, no matter where the Light shines your path."
She turns to TAKASHI. "I would like to give your student a gift, warrior" and she takes a plain short bow from the stand of several of bows that match TAKASHI's new one. It seems well taken care of, but used.
"Once," she whispered to Claudia "I had a teacher who taught me the value of Life and Light, of being strong and of being brave. At a time when I thought of myself as lesser, he taught me that only I could make myself more. And although I do not live with my people now, and I find myself here in this place, I have made a home, a living and a life with my husband. I could not ask for anything more, especially in these times. I see my younger self in you, Claudia. And I want you to take this. I will not have a daughter to teach the skill and to pass this on. This bow, this is the one that I learned with and hunted much game with, and even saved my life once against bandits. I think you will make good use of it and you will take good care of it. You have a good teacher, and any time you wish to return, I will be happy to show you things that I have learned."
Claudia looks at TAKASHI and back at Shaya and nods, wordlessly. Shaya picks up a burlap back and puts the bow in it. "Serve her well as you have served me." she whispers to it and hands it to Claudia.
27 Sep
TAKASHI nods, and bows silently towards Shaya.
TAKASHI: "It is good that I stopped by your shop today. I feel that we have made new friends here in Skalfier, which is a rare and treasured thing."
"Of course, the arrows and wrist guard will cost you a few gold!" Waqqa comments from behind you, having watched the gift. Shaya laughs and shakes her head. "Oh husband... " but she nods and names a price of 3 gold crowns, 5 silver crowns for the quiver, arrows and wrist guard. The transaction complete, Shaya bows at the waist to you all. "May the Light guide your path and keep the Darkness from your hearts." she whispers. "Please come back any time you need more bows."
"And arrows!" Waqqa adds with a laugh. They escort you back out through the shop and then shut the door behind you, as it is past sunset.
Claudia shakes her head in amazement. "Master.. that.. I ... "
27 Sep
TAKASHI: "In my travels from my home in the East, I have encountered many types of people, Claudia. There are those that keep to themself and just try to get by one day at a time. There are those who are broken inside, and seek to see all that is around them is broken as well. And then there are those who have something special within them.
It is not always obvious, and sometimes you will need to talk with them for an hour or more, but eventually you will see that something special within shine from their eyes, from their words, and from their actions. Those are the people we strive to be, to help, to protect, and to see thrive. Today, we have met two more of them, and I think that we may call them friends for the rest of our days.
Now, let us meet up with the rest at the Captain's Quarters."
Later in the evening...
28 Sep
The Captain's Quarter is just... barely... civil enough for Claudia to be present in. By her wide eyes, giggles, sudden bursts of blushing, and outright staring, it's clear that there adult behavior here that she's never seen before. The Inn is busy and rolicking, with many patrons present.
28 Sep
ATACIUS: As we find a table, I look around to see if Thom is here.
28 Sep
ATACIUS, you don't see him.
Just as it looks like you might get through a meal and conversation uninterrupted, a tall, thin man comes sidling up to your table. He has a large pack to his side, and it looks stuff with papers.
"Gents.. and ladies... pardon my interruption... Jalcus Gotcar... map maker." he bows. "From the looks of you all, you seem to be the type who are adventurers and looking for the next adventure, amIright? AmIright? Well, if you're looking for adventure, I'm your man!" he beams. He sits down right next to ATACIUS and pumps the littleling's hand with a hearty, long-enough-to-really-be-uncomfortable handshake.
"So... as I said, maps be my trade and I know a thing or two about maps. What are you looking for?" he grins. He motions to a nearby server for "an ale, same as my friends here are drinking!"
28 Sep
TOBIAS is enjoying his time here, and orders an ale with his meal. It's clearly his first, but he tries to keep his face from grimacing at the bitter taste. He tries his best to look around while trying to mimic the behavior of the men at the table with him, to show that he belongs. He wonders if anyone will be playing music, and if he'd be brave enough to ask Claudia to dance if they did...
Then the stranger shows up. He listens to the strange man, then shoots a look at TAKASHI that says, "Is this guy serious?"
28 Sep
TAKASHI: "Perhaps we'll let ATACIUS take a look and see what he thinks of this mapkeeper and his maps. He seems to know more about treasures and how to liberate them than the rest of us, combined!"
28 Sep
CALLIN: "I would ask you the same question good Sir. What is it you are looking for? For as far as I have been adventuring whatever we seek, has a tendancy to find us" CALLIN says with a chuckle.
29 Sep
ATACIUS:"This guy must have left his pouch elsewhere, and if not, he's terribly stupid to sit next to a littleling!" he thinks as his hand is shaken. If the stranger has a ring I'll cup his hand between mine. Maybe it'll come loose after the hearty handshake. ATACIUS will give a quick look around to see if someone is paying attention to this guy.
"So... how's the map business going? Anyone interested in the hills and badlands to the NE lately?" asks the littleling he asks casually. He looks at him over the rim of the tankard as he sips his ale.
29 Sep
Yes, there's a ring on his finger. Roll for pickpocketing if you wish to take it. (I'll wait to see the results before I continue...)
29 Sep
Ooops! Gabriel Perez Gallardi rolled 1d100 for a total of 97
29 Sep
Ouch. And the reaction roll didn't favor you much either.
29 Sep
The moment your fingers brush on the ring, to pull it off, he feels the attempt and lets out a "HEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" and jumps back out of his chair, it bouncing away. Immediately, the crowd around you goes quiet and looks at your table.
"YOURETRYINGTOSTEALMYRING!!!" he yells. He points at you and looks around. "DIDYOUSEETHAT? DAMNMIDGETWASGRABBINGMYRING! THIEF!"
29 Sep
Oh no, he's going to get us into trouble, thinks TOBIAS as he watches the man screaming. I have to stop him... He puts his hands under the table and starts putting his fingers into the shape he needs them to be in order to make the arcane gestures required, but everything happens to quickly, and his head is feeling a little fuzzy for some reason, and it's over by the time he can begin preparing.
Some of the locals chuckle and shake their heads, a couple more give ATACIUS a hard look. The barkeep looks over from the bar and makes a nod and shortly, a very large woman comes over. The iron-shod club on her belt tells quite plainly who she is.
"Problem?" she says, putting a hand on Jalcus's shoulder.
"YES!!!" Jalcus exclaims. "This... this... THIEF (he points to ATACIUS) just tried to steal my ring and all I was doing was sitting down for a drink!"
"Mhmm..." the woman bouncer muses... "And we told you to stop bothering the customers, didn't we? Out you go!" and she pushes him towards the door. Jalcus glares at ATACIUS and slinks away towards the exit.
The woman turns back towards ATACIUS. "As for you... Jalcus might be a bother, but we don't abide by thieves or those who want to act like them. Finish your mug and leave. Quickly." she says firmly and her hand slaps on the club at her side.
Claudia's mouth hangs open.
29 Sep
ATACIUS stands on his chair with his drink and speaks. "You see that man there?" pointing at Jalcus leaving. "We accepted his company at our table and what he does? Wrongfully acusses me of thievery. What an outrageous lie!" he says clearly irritated. "And why? Because I'm a littleling? That's just unlawful discrimination!" he finishes his drink. "And now you ask me to leave?" he asks the barkeep over the bouncer's shoulder. "I was going to pay a round on me for EVERYONE folks..." he adds addresing the customers. "...but I have to leave..." he finshes in a victimized tone. He climbs down the chair.
29 Sep
TAKASHI glances at Claudia, then at the littleling. He shakes his head in wonder, and chuckles under his breath.
TAKASHI (softly to Claudia): "Sometimes, I think he just can't help himself. I'll go speak with this Jalcus and see what he has to offer."
With that, TAKASHI will stand up and follow Jalcus out the door.
TAKASHI: "Jalcus, wait a moment! Pardon my friend - sometimes I think he tries his sleight of hand for the challende of it, instead of any monetary reward. The distance between his hand and brain may be shorter than your and mind, but sometimes I think his hands have a mind of their own. Also, we have a history of solicitors attempting to separate us from our coin with goods of dubious quality.
If your wares are high quality, and you are an honest mand frank merchant, then I will head what you have to offer."
29 Sep
CALLIN after seeing the display just shakes his head at ATACIUS: "Sticky hands, only lead to more burden as things cling on Little one."
29 Sep
TOBIAS looks at his remaining friends at the table and asks, "Um... do we have to leave, too?"
29 Sep
The speech (and the reaction roll of 10) apparently mollifies the barkeep. "Keep yer hands to yerself... and a round is thirty gold crowns, little one!" he barks. The bouncer stands next to ATACIUS, glowering until ATACIUS hands over the gold to her. With that, a cheer goes up and the swill comes out to fill the mugs of those around your table. The bouncer growls at you "Keep yer hands to yerself, sneakthief..." before she stalks off. You can feel her eyes on you all, as she keeps a close watch on your table from her post.
29 Sep
ATACIUS handles the bouncer the money.
Outside, Jalcus glowers at TAKASHI for a moment. He looks unsure, especially at the size and equipment that TAKASHI has with him. "And... how I know that you're not in league with that little pickpocket, ready to take me behind an alley and take all my goods! My maps! My ring!" he says in a slightly shaky voice.
29 Sep
TAKASHI: "ATACIUS might be mischievous, but he would never harm someone unless that person threatened him or those he cares for with life or limb."
TAKASHI gestures at his equipment, brushing his hands along his profile, and letting his right hand linger at the pommel of the enchanted sword for just a franction of a second before putting both hands out in front of him, palms up.
TAKASHI: "We may have the appearance of rough people because we have adventured over the width of the area, but we have never hurt anyone undeserving. If you wish to show me your wares, then now is the time. Otherwise, I'll return to my friends inside."
29 Sep
Jalcus peers at TAKASHI. "I'm not used to attempted robbery and then asked to show my wares. I think I'll just be going now..." but his hand casually opens the case and you see several brightly colors maps - one looking suspiciously like it has water or ocean on it...
30 Sep
TAKASHI: "I may be interested in the map that has the large water feature, if indeed that is a map of the local waters. May I look at it closer? I can give you a gold crown to hold if you fear I aim to run away with it, unpractical as that may be with my current equipment."
29 Sep
CALLIN smiles at the barkeeps response. "Well then ATACIUS, it seems as if your burden has been lifted" he manages to get out behind a chuckle.
29 Sep
ATACIUS: "Worry not friend, Appleton paid for that." he says twiddling his thumbs.
29 Sep
TOBIAS smiles at ATACIUS, then watches as his mug is refilled.
29 Sep
The "round" swill tastes nastier, but is a lot more stronger than the ale you just had. Claudia watches your reaction to the drink.
29 Sep
TOBIAS tries, but can't stop his face from scrunching up like a crumpled up piece of paper.
29 Sep
ATACIUS: "30 gold crowns for this piss..." says the littleling after taking a sip of his drink. "And they call ME a thief!" he adds with a laugh.
"Oh, and I was joking TOBIAS, being your most trusted financial advisor, I wouldn't do anything that compromises the coffers of the kingdom." he says in low tones as he leans forward.
30 Sep
TOBIAS, his face still recovering after his taste of the swill, leans towards ATACIUS and nods. Then the words of the Littleling really sink in and he laughs, "The Kingdom? Appleton? Say... do you think we really could build a watchtower there? How much do you think it would cost?"
30 Sep
ATACIUS: "Well, that's out of my fields of expertise, but with all the reconstruction works being done here after the avalanche, there are plenty of workers, masons and all. I could make some inquiries about it." He looks around the place. "Maybe someone here..."
3 Oct
TOBIAS looks around too, trying to find someone that might know about that kind of work, but is quickly distracted by other activities taking place...
3 Oct
CALLIN: "Just remember friends. If we build a watchtower in Appleton, it will be a beacon. It might merit some unwanted attention. Should we built it, we must ensure it is manned by those capable of defending the town. Since we rollic about so much these days it would be best to ensure we have trustworthy guards as well...."
3 Oct
ATACIUS: "That's a good point, but maybe we don't need soldiers. Just have an early warning and a good plan for the villagers to defend themselves. We need to think as the attackers, where are the access and then block them. Like, with movable barricades."
3 Oct
CALLIN: "Perhaps, but I'm not sure anyone besides CLAUDIA would be willing the raise a hand. Sir Finniagan did a wonderful job protecting the village, but he took that weight upon his shoulders. I agree we should teach men to fish for themselves, but I am not sure who would rise to the call. As we have agreed to protect the village and help TOBAIS we must make sure we are doing our part, while we continue our adventures."
3 Oct
ATACIUS: "Oh, we will do our part, yes. But we need to have a plan for when we're away."
4 Oct
CALLIN: "I Agree. Do you think it best to attempt to train those in the village? Or would it be better to establish a guard?"
5 Oct
ATACIUS: "Haven't made my mind about it yet. Let's discuss it with the rest after our next delve into Athenum."
30 Sep
GRAIAN watches wuthwith samusement at the proceedings, he has to admit the beer is a little different. Given everything is back under control he relaxes but watches as Takashi goes outsideou"Perhaps I will join Takashi, make ssure tthere is nothing amiss." He gets uoup and walks to the door.Ptside. ome
30 Sep
GRAIAN, you walk out just as Jalcen makes his casual motion to show the many colored maps, including one that looks like a lot of ocean...
30 Sep
Jalcus takes TAKASHI's gold crown and places it in a pocket. TAKASHI and GRAIAN both watch as Jalcus sorts through his bag and pulls out a brightly colored map. He shows it to you both, but keeps a hand on it.
It appears to show currents, fishing locations around Skalfier and the coast... and Ramathia as well. A bit more detail than the map you've a copy of from the Guild library.
"That's a beauty, it is... Made by some of the better fishermen before the Doom and all, but folks like to put it up as a momento and some even hold onto it as a way to find fishing up the coast and all." he brags.
30 Sep
TAKASHI: "GRAIAN, what do you think? I think it would look nice framed and hung on the wall... the one in the great hall with nothing on it. Those familiar with the sea would probably find it most interesting. How much? Less the crown already in your pocket, of course."
30 Sep
"Well..." says Jalcus, warming up "... I think that another 9 gold crowns would be perfect! After all, these had to be all hand-crafted by myself, my wife and my children! That would be a perfect price and it would look wonderful on your wall!"
30 Sep
TAKASHI: "GRAIN, what do you think? A bit expensive for art, but I will leave the decision up to you."
2 Oct
GRAIAN looks at the map and then at Jalcus, "Hmm a little expensive I think, but tell me were di you get the information to draw this work of art?"
3 Oct
"Well, like I said, fishermen had made maps for years of the coast and where the best places to fish are. So, I just had a few of them, and took ... uhhh... the best information from them and made this. Now, I've noticed that adventurer types LOVE to get maps like these and try and find treasures, like the lost Foamseeker ship, but yes, this also makes a nice art piece!"
4 Oct
TAKASHI: "GRAIAN, perhaps it is worth it. Jalcus, here the remaining coin. If this map is not accurate, we will be sure to discuss it with you in the future."
TAKASHI will hand 9 gold crowns to Jalcus, and wait for him to give us the map.
4 Oct
"Oh, thank you sir! But.... you only owe me eight crowns, since you had given me one to show your good intent. I'm glad you're not like that... thief in there!" Jalcus says. He hands you the map.
"As far as accurancy, it is only as accurate as those who told me the stories and showed me their maps!" he says. "BUT... if you find something... and it's note-worthy... let me know... I can always make a good deal with adventurers for good information!"
He waves to you and steps away, whistling.
The map is very brightly colored... and has some interesting notations on the back. The isle of Ramathia catches your eye though, as several of the tall towers shown on it are outlined in gold, flickering in the dim torch and lantern light that is around you.
OOC - I can make decent hex maps, but a cartographer I am not. So, here is how this will work, until I can make something as a substitute. There are 2 notations on the isle of Ramathia, and 6 on the coastline of Skalfier. When you get to sitting down and really pouring over the map, I will list them for you and we'll consider that you have an approximate idea of where these place are at. Not necessarily GPS accurate, but far better than word of mouth!
4 Oct
TAKASHI: "One more thing, before you go. At breakfast this morning, we overheard a mention of adventurers exploring the badlands to the NE of Skalfier, and something about a map. Do you know anything about this?"
4 Oct
Jalcus stops mid-step and turns around.
"Ahhh... the secret tombs map. Yes, the possible source of much treasure and possibly even more curses! It's said that there are wonderful riches to be found from hundreds of years in the past... but horrible deaths have met all who search!" he declares in a deep and scary voice.
Then he laughs. "Oh, who am I kidding? Yes, I have a so-called treasure map, but to be honest, I hate selling it. People buy it, thinking they'll navigate the badlands and then they don't find anything but rock and danger.. and then they get mad at ME! So I sell it... but it's not cheap! Not anymore.. you have to REALLY want this map in order to buy it."
4 Oct
TAKASHI: "I understand. GRAIAN, I believe we have our hands full at the moment anyhow. Perhaps some other time?"
5 Oct
GRAIAN: "Perhaps when we return we will have something to trade for this map."
5 Oct
Jalcus smiles, almost a smile of relief. "Wonderful, well, may the Light bless your path, goodsirs!" and he leaves.
5 Oct
OK, you've survived the Athenum, gotten GRAIAN cured of his curse, equipped Claudia and managed to not get thrown out of the bar :) What are your intentions for the next 2 days until the Elven Searchers are ready to go?
5 Oct
Thoughts?
5 Oct
(Do we have time to go figure out how much gold was in that chest, or do we need to wait here for the Searchers?)
5 Oct
It's a day's travel to Appleton.
5 Oct
CALLIN will speak with Brother Gorgines on requesting some Acyolites to travel with us on our journey as well. Having a few extra healers along could do well.
5 Oct
TAKASHI hopes that CALLIN will only bring those who are moderates like himself, and no Lightbringers, who seem awfully nasty.
5 Oct
CALLIN "Have no worries TAKASHI, my goal is to allow the Acolytes to see the world as it is, not how it is preached behind the safety of walls. That we must all learn to work together, so that the Light may shine upon all of us. I also wish to show these new Acolyties something more than what these so called Lightbringers show them. Teach a man to fish as it were."
TAKASHI would also like to look into getting some armor fitted for Claudia. It wouldn't do well for her to get in another scrap with no armor.
7 Oct
OOC: Can we get Claudia some armor?
7 Oct
Ah, sorry, I must have missed this, my apologies.
Padded gambeson (cloth) is 4gc and would put her from AC10 to AC9. A shield would make it AC8.
Leather armor is heavier, 10gc, and would put her at AC8. A shield would make it AC7.
Studded leather is double the weight of cloth, and 15 gold crowns. That's AC7 and a shield would make it AC6.
Cloth is available immediately, leather and studded would take a ten day to assemble and prepare for her.
8 Oct
OOC: No worries! Lots of stuff going on here.
I Claudia can effectively wear studded leather, he'll fit her for that and get her a shield as well.
9 Oct
She can take the small shield with her now (AC 9) and the studded leather will be ready. CLAUDIA seems overwhelmed with all the gear you've purchased for her.
10 Oct
TAKASHI: "Claudia, it is my responsibility to see that you are trained with the proper equipment, and that you are protected should we find ourself in another situation like we did several days ago. Some day you may decide to teach a young firebrand the art of battle, and may do the same.
In the meantime, it is my pleasure to give you these tools. You have been an excellent student and show great promise, both martial and social. Keep up the good work."
TAKASHI smiles, then says:
TAKASHI: "Now, it's been a long day so we shoud probably get some rest."
5 Oct
(ATACIUS gives back TOBIAS' bedroll, flint and steel, and waterskin. He picked them up after TOBIAS unencumbered himsefl to carry books.)
6 Oct
Gorgines is uncertain, but given your reputation, he's willing to allow this - it seems that Deneb and Otollum like to keep their acolytes and deacons close to the Temple, so he is stretching the limit of what he can achieve.
He is able to finagle a young Acolyte by the name of Bindi to be able to leave. She seems a bit frail and sniffles a lot, but she's very eager to go and very excited to out in the world. "Let's take the Light to the Dark and make everything shine!" she exclaims. She then drops her prayer book and manages to tangle herself up in her studded leather armor and 50' rope. She looks at you all with an apologetic look.
She seems to take a shine to TOBIAS.
6 Oct
CALLIN: "I like your enthusiasm Bindi! Come let us shine the Light upon the world! I would like to stock up on supplies before we venture out as well. Is there anything you might need Bindi?" Callin is asking but also looking at what equipment she is taking with her and see what she will actually need.
7 Oct
With some effort, Bindi manages to show what she has bundled together, in an odd makeshift backpack with what looks like a blanket:
Studded Leather, Club, Staff, 10 ft. Pole, 50 ft. Rope, Flask of Holy Water, Flask of Oil, Spike, Water Skin
She smiles in an almost embarassed, but defiant way. "The armor is from my Papa. I fit into it!" she says proudly. "These other things, I've collected from adventurers in the taverns and the ones who come into the Temple." She takes a peek to see if TOBIAS is paying attention.
7 Oct
TOBIAS looks down when Bindi looks over, busying himself with packing away the things ATACIUS gave to him back in his backpack. When he's done, he looks back over towards Bindi to see if she remembered to pick up her prayer book.
7 Oct
Bindi smiles at TOBIAS. "Oh, thank you! I knew I was forgetting something!"
Callin - if you wish to equip Bindi with more, just let me know. Bindi will memorize a spell that you indicate.
If there is nothing else, I can forward things to where you meet the Seekers.
7 Oct
CALLIN: I would like to pick up 2 lanterns one for myself and one for Bindi, I would also like to get her a proper backpack, rations for both of us for a week. Ensure she has both a Holy Symbol as well as her prayer book.
7 Oct
The acaterer, who provides rations and other groceries, has a long look on her face. "The harvests just haven't been like they used to be, good priest," she says in an apologetic manner. That's why food has double in prices as people are stocking up, thinking that the Winter of 57 might be a hard one. Standard rations will be 4 silver crowns a day. They last seven days. Longer lasting, better preserved foods are already 2 gold pieces, and she thinks the prices will rise.
A backpack from a leatherworker costs 5 gold crowns. Lantern oil from the oynter costs 1 silver crown per flask. A quality bullseye lantern will cost 15 gold crowns. A hooded lantern will run you 10 gold crowns.
Bindi blushes and runs back to the Temple to get her wooden Holy Symbol, she'd apparently forgotten it in all the excitement. She does have her Prayer Book.
8 Oct
GRAIAN will spend the two days studying the book he brought to show the Conclave.
9 Oct
It's an amazing treatise on elven magic, and even in the two days, you learn a couple of things that you hadn't before. Studying the books from the Athenum will definitely make you a better mage. (Keep reading in your down time -- similar to what you're doing with Joseph in Enonia in the tabletop campaign.)
8 Oct
ATACIUS: In these two days he'll try to find Thom and see if he can get some tools of the trade. :)
9 Oct
I looked back at our notes and you had left a message for someone (this was awhile back... go see your private chat :> )
9 Oct
With that, we move to Act 14: https://rizzoma.com/topic/9751b5822ccb3057a31efd9df78c8863/0_b_8rqu_7eb7m/