Catastrophe of Nature(Realms Game#23) [Archive] - Giant in the Playground Forums

pife

2013-03-07, 12:13 PM

Okay, so.. I'm thinking that as far as multiclassing, that fighter and rogue are out (I want charisma to be a primary stat regardless of class, because Anaglan is going to have to talk to people, and it just won't do if they all despise him right off the bat). So, with either fighter or rogue, I would want at least two of the three physical stats to be decent, and that just can't happen if I want to have a decent intelligence and charisma..

Do you think Malarite druid, or cleric would be more appropriate? With druid, I could delve further into the Shadow Circle style, the "wilderness good, civilization bad" simplification, but I wanted to get your thoughts on it, if you had any. Or, for a complete spell-monkey, and considering the limitations of my stats and my desire to have the highest charisma possible (he sees himself in charge of people later in life), do you think it would be more interesting to go with Wizard/Sorceror? Cuz lord knows this guy does NOT need to be in a physical fight..

Anaglan has big dreams, but the realities of his situation will tend to keep him realistic. He's not going to be the biggest/fastest/strongest/smartest.. So he's going to have to be more organized..

Will we be roleplaying the meeting of a mentor of whichever class I plan to multiclass into? Actually, has he maybe just recently converted to Malar, and still doesn't know his way around the forest (with only 16 S.P., I couldn't really spare any for Cross-class skills, so he's got no outdoorsy abilities).

GoddessSune

2013-03-07, 11:40 PM

Fighter is always good even if you don't fight. How about spelltheif, warlock or beguiler?

Well, you would be ''towns folk'' people growing up(and worse decadent elves). We could role play anything.

And D&D Wiki is just full of so much crap.

pife

2013-03-07, 11:49 PM

Very true. I'll worry about what to multi-class to later, we'll see how things work out. Okay, finishing the character..

How much background would you like?

GoddessSune

2013-03-08, 12:10 AM

How much back ground do you have? Want to have? We already have a nice frame work. Or did you have details to add? If so, go ahead...

pife

2013-03-08, 12:24 AM

Starting funds

[roll0]

pife

2013-03-08, 12:36 AM

I feel like he's frustrated a lot, likely due to his physical frailty. He's angry often, even if he doesn't always show it. He holds himself to high standards, and is very frustrated when he falls short of them, which exacerbates his other shortcomings. I feel like he was a precocious and friendly boy, but.. something changed that. Turned him inward, made him dark and broody. Perhaps he's a little bit manic. Sometimes he will come out of his shell and be.. almost normal. I think that whatever happened in his past that caused all this angst has been suppressed, and that even he doesn't quite know where it comes from. And he did not have a good relationship with his magical mentor. He felt held back and stifled, and Anaglan believes that he was basically "thrown out" before he could get a chance to perform any "real" magic.

pife

2013-03-08, 12:56 AM

http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=529470

With the exception of his familiar's stats, my character sheet is ready for your final inspection.. I think I'm worrying too much about his shortcomings, lol. Need to get him in game so I start finding out what he's good at!

Ready when you are.. (But by the way, taking my family to Six Flags on Saturday, so I will be offline all day)..

Thanks for your patience, I appreciate it..

GoddessSune

2013-03-08, 10:58 PM

I feel like he's frustrated a lot......

Well, this is more ''personality'' then ''back story'' :smallbiggrin:

The sheet looks fine. I'm ready to get started too.

pife

2013-03-10, 01:45 PM

Will we be starting in the wilderness, or in a town of some sort? I'm not sure if you're going to kick this off, or if i should start doing something, lol.

pife

2013-03-10, 02:13 PM

A bit of Anaglan's background

The forest bleeds. Unlike the pastoral fantasy land portrayed by the elves, in which all benevolent guardians of the woods (meaning, elves themselves) live in perfect harmony with the wilderness, molding and shaping themselves to it, rather than molding it to meet their needs, Anaglan now realizes that there is no such thing as a "benevolent" guardian. Those with the ability, take, and those without, have taken from them. It is the same in nature as it is in the largest metropolis. A life is only worth the effort one will take to keep it, and that which those who wish it ended will take to see it so.

Anaglan was not always this way. Raised in a tiny elven hamlet, the only "halfbreed" in sight, his parents attempted to see his childhood wreathed in some form of normalcy. However, two things stood in his way. First was the suppressed anger imposed on him by the inhabitants of the town. While his parents married for love, their neighbors and families did not approve. While he received the barest courtesy, and the most minimal "inclusion", Anaglan realized early that he was different. His physical impairments made certain that he would rarely be included in the games played by the elf children, his recurring illnesses bred contempt and no small amount of fear. His intelligence and rapid maturity in comparison to the full-blooded meant that when he was ready for greater responsibility and recognition, he found himself alone, doubted, and despised. His "friends" were still attached firmly to their mothers apron-strings, and those of the same equivalent age refused to accept him. The adults largely ignored him beyond a poorly hidden sneer of disgust.

As the axes of man began biting into the edges of the forest, much time and talk was expended talking about what to "do" about the encroachers. It was difficult for the village not to let their natural inclination toward isolation and a bit of xenophobie leach into their conversations, and comments about "those humans" began to tear at him more and more.

Always a bit of an extremist, Anaglan searched for answers in the most radical texts he could find. When those of elven manufacture failed to provide a solution, he began searching for answers elsewhere. In books typically kept under lock and key, obtained only by sneaking and filching, Anaglan read of more "robust" methods. Some ancient texts referred to shadows in the night coming alive to cleanse the impure. Pure fairy tales, some might say, but Anaglan took them to heart. He began to see that those who allowed nature to rule them, as the elves did, were weak and destined to fall. Humans were little better, always cutting and building, creating stinkholes of iniquity, where fools propped up other fools, always creating more laws, always destroying the wild places, always taking.

It was then that he realized that the humans had some of it correct, but only some. Taking. That was the nature of the wild. To take, whether territory, or mates, or food. A wolf does not ask whether the rabbit minds being eaten. It hunts, and it takes. A bear does not ask other bears if they mind him taking the lovely cave next to the river. He takes it, if he can, and flees if he cannot, perhaps to return to contest for it again. Even the rabbits ask for no permission. They take, and they breed, and they nibble with no regard for those whose labors they impair.

And so it was, that Anaglan found his path. There are beasts in the wood who are weaker than others, but more cunning. There are creatures who by all rights should be able to have no territory, nor mates, but by their efforts, some overt and others hidden, they thrive.

When his parents saw that he might have an aptitude for magic, they arranged for Anaglan to take instruction from an ancient and often befuddled master. In exchange for being nearly a slave to the doddering fool, Anaglan learned the rudiments of magic. Scraps only, for which Anaglan will always hold a seething envy, but more importanly, the acquired texts of his master, those kept buried deep in chests likely forgotten, held great interest. They spoke of a bestial deity called Malar, a being of bloodlust, and hunting, of protecting ones territoy with ones own claws and teeth, and of breaking down the bonds that civilization imposed. Here was his calling, and here was his master. His inept fumblings at divine ceremonies were laughable, if determined. He needed a mentor who would see the feral look in Anaglan's eyes, and not dismiss him because he was weak of limb and health. This mentor has yet to show himself, and when he or she does, they had better be prepared to practice what they preach. Because Anaglan is tired of listening to rhetoric. He wants to TAKE.

GoddessSune

2013-03-10, 06:33 PM

The first day of spring, just after dawn: Quite an appropriate time in your mind. The start of a new season of life. A time for new things, such as a new life for yourself. Just a few weeks ago you had taken your final arcane test, and passed. You were an apprentice no more, but a full mage.

Now you stood, just in front of your parents house, your home for nearly all your life. Ready to start down your own path.

pife

2013-03-10, 07:12 PM

And not beforetime!! Anaglan loved his parents, in some way, and would never like to see harm come to them, even his mother, whose race he disliked on principle at this point. She was the one elf for whom he carried even the slightest empathy, the slightest affection. He may even have known, deep down, that it was not the fault of his parents for his physical shortcomings, nor even their fault for the way he was seen and treated by others. But it was time to go.

Pondering his destination, he knew only that his first steps must carry him from this home, this town, and all who dwelled within it. Forever.

There is a difference between "knowing" ones limitations, and "accepting" them. Anaglan had never been taught woodcraft, nor tracking, nor hunting. He knew not the best places to sleep, to fish, or hunt. But he would learn. He would find a teacher.

But first, to a city. Cities had libraries, books where he could learn more about Malar, perhaps even discover where a temple or shrine lay. This likely meant a human city, large enough to hold what he sought.

I'm sorry, I know the current Realms fairly well, but I don't know what cities or towns were present in this time. If you could throw me a location or two, villages, nearest fair sized city, I'd appreciate it

Caravans or travellers- Anaglan realizes that weak creatures herd together for protection. Are there any trade caravans, travelling merchants or other such group that he could join in the short term until he reached the city?

Without further ado, he felt for the comforting weight of his spellbook, adjusted the straps of his backpack, and strode off, using his quarterstaff as a walking stick. Surely he could find somewhere to bed down before night fell this evening.

GoddessSune

2013-03-10, 11:55 PM

pife

2013-03-11, 06:54 AM

Malar
Malar is not a 'human' god. Like Shar, Selune, and Mystra, Malar is a primordial non-humanoid deity. Malar is much more a god of the elven pantheon then the human one. Malar first attacked Collerlian (being manipulated by Araushnee(Lolth)) before -30,000 DR(when humans where more 'beast men'). And has been hunting, attacking and killing elves for over 30,000 years now. Malar is one of the major evil gods for the elves.

Perfect. So, would my master have had any texts (possibly even forbidden ones) that speak of days and events and locations that might be holy to Malar? One of Anaglan's first moves will be to find a way to affiliate with the church in some small way (though he'll ikely have to pay serious dues, since he's not a hunter.. Yet.

DR 60

Elven lands in the North(sword coast north)
Ardeep(Same as current)
Iliyanbruen(Neverwinter Wood) Capital city:Sharandar
Rilithar(Westwood/Kryptgarden Forest)

Your town, Evergreen, is located on the northern border of Rilithar.

Humans
Illusk(Luskan) is full of Netherese refugees and is ruled by the Grand C abal, a group of powerful wizards.
DeepWater Bay(Waterdeep) is little more then some permanent farms and a large trade area.
Candelkeep is almost 300 years old, but still full of books and lore.
Ruathym (Ruathym)
Gundarlun(Gundarlun)

If I am able to locate sufficient data on likely locations to seek Malarites, I could avoid going to a town for now.

Candlekeep would be a good resource, but SOOOO far away, lol.. And right now, Anaglan is on foot, so he's not thinking of anything that long distance yet.

Does Anaglan know of any wizards of low to middling power and reputation in the area? Possibly an acquaintance of his master, or just a mage that he knows of locally? He's considering attempting to pilfer scrolls or spellbooks. If the mage is known to be powerful, he will not make any attempt on their property. (A fox doesn't tangle with a bear, and right now, Anaglan wants to be a fox).

GoddessSune

2013-03-12, 01:37 PM

Evergreen(Calen'Oio in elven)

Wizards of Name Level:

Elfs:
Bachor Dundalk-Treespeaker(mayor)-cleric/wizard

Thavron Murchadha-Woodspeaker(Carpenter)-wizard(transmuter)

Hoston Conchobhair-fighter/mage

Himelon Delahayde-fighter/mage(arcane archer)

Lhe Domhnaill-wizard

Iston Maolomhnaigh-wizard. This is your mentor.

Norawarthon Ruairc-Metalspeaker(blacksmith) wizard

Esgalon Ellenosion-wizard

Humans:

Orinus Atkascha-wizard, 'son of Netheril'

Pazu Whittaker-wizard

Pallanza Gainsborough- wizardess

Astos Darkfingers-wizard alchemist

Half elf:

Darlavon Darkwood-merchant, wizard

pife

2013-03-12, 08:03 PM

wow, larger list than I expected. Assuming my master Iston trained any of the other wizards in this group, I will consider one of those, as it is likely that they will be weaker than my master, and I may have seen/heard details about their abilities, weaknesses, defenses and proclivities.

Of special interest will be any of these mages who either live miles from town, are known to drink or otherwise imbibe themselves into a stupor, those who fancy the regular company of women (or men) not their wives or husbands. Also, those who travel often or are markedly weaker than others will be preferred. Those that I know to be extremely powerful, have known magical or mundane defenses that I would be unlikely to overcome, or particularly vicious pets or watchful familiars will not be considered. Anaglan is looking to add to his magical knowledge, not to a body count. (The alchemist is particularly interesting, as there would likely be potions about that would be easily carried and immediately useful once I determine what they are)

If any mages meet any of these criteria, I will ask Nicodemus (new name of my raven familar, I decided I didn't like 'Nick') to first fly-by their home. If he is able to report that he saw noone awake and about, to land on a windowsill (preferably an upper story if such a thing exists), to look for the resident-mage. I would like Anaglan to pick one likely target for pilfering, if possible.

My potential plan includes taking some object of interest (nothing too noteworthy, unless I can lay hands to a wand or a spellbook), and another object, perhaps a rare text or some such. The purpose of the second object will potentially be to frame someone else for the crime, allowing me to make my escape without too much fear of being pursued.

If I know that all of these mages are alert, powerful and well defended, I will give up this plan, and merely set off down the trail, destination Illusk.

GoddessSune

2013-03-12, 09:16 PM

Iston did train Lhe Domhnaill, but that was around 20 years ago. Though Iston himself might fit your needs:

Iston
Iston Maolomhnaigh is a great wizard that chose to retire here. To hear Iston tell it he has traveled the Planes, fought dragons and done all sorts of great things. But all of the was ''centuries'' ago. Iston, now over 500 years old, is a bit befuddled and scatter-brained. On a good day he is still an arch mage supreme, but on his bad days he is useless.

He is a traditional master: just one apprentice at a time. Teaching is one of the few things that could focus his mind. And for the most part, while teaching he was normal.

The human, Pazu Whittaker, is a bit crazy. He likes to chase elven women, but often fails with them. It's more common for him to settle for human women. He is known to be the father of at least a dozen kids.

All of the rest live in town, are powerful and don't travel much. You might want to look at a traveling wizard for a target, not a local. Anyone just passing through town. And, after all, the more adventuring wizard would have more interesting things(and not say an flower watering pot of endless water).

pife

2013-03-12, 09:48 PM

That's likely wise. And in fact, perhaps I'll try my luck in Illusk. Anaglan's current idea is to locate a winsome wench of the evening, isolate her, cast sleep, followed by charm person, and just talk her into seducing "our" mark, and keeping him busy (in her room, not his).

That's something I will think about more as I travel. In the meantime, I occasionally send Nicodemus scouting a few minutes ahead and behind, just to know what is nearby. I plan to make camp (a very uncomfortable camp, as I am not well funded enough to have tents, pots, etc).. Along my journey, I will be looking for trees bearing fruits, nuts, shrubs with berries, or anything that untrained Knowl: nature and/or survival checks can grant me. I plan to stop most evenings several hours before dusk, sleeping under thick shrubs if available, or large trees if not (tying myself to a branch so I don't roll out), and trusting to Nicodemus to warn me if danger approaches.

If food becomes scarce, ( he only had 4 days of trail rations with him as he left) I plan to make a couple of attempts at hunting with my crossbow, practicing how I think stalking works, attempting to stay downwind, etc.. But as I only have 10 bolts, I won't do this more than a few times before needing to conserve ammunition, if it can't be recovered.

A few Knowledge Nature and Survival rolls, in case they're needed

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

HOLY Beshaba!! Haha, I'll be lucky if I don't go to sleep in poison oak, next to a bears den in mating season, after rolling around in dead fish!

I've honestly never gotten to play a solo game in PbP, so I'm kinda just freestyling here. If you have preferences as to format or content, (more detail, less detail, etc), please just let me know. I want this to be fun for you as well, and it seems that you have done this before, so I'll defer to your expertise.

GoddessSune

2013-03-13, 07:03 PM

There is no real wrong or right way to do a PbP. It depends what everyone wants. We are still sort of just setting up. Once the game gets rolling, you should switch over to primary first person point of view.

The woods of Rilithar, easily everything within a days walk of Calen'Oio are Elven Woods. As such, there is plenty of food to be found. Even for bungling towns folk. As such there are plenty of plants and animals to eat. So it is easy for you to find nuts and berries (DC 5).

You walk along for the whole day, not encountering much other then plants and animals. (your in safe lands, after all). For your first night, you sleep under a nice fallen tree trunk in a small hollow. The next morning you continue onward. Just after noon, you follow Nicodemus's directions to ''something to see''.

You find a campsite. A large, twenty foot or so circular area cut right into the forest. Trees and plants all around have been cut and chopped to make the circle. The dead and half dead bits all laying around. Garbage, bits of cloth, leather, bones and such cover the campsite clearing. It is clean that the area was made by no elf. A single path, also roughly cut into the forest, leads a bit northward.

pife

2013-03-13, 08:08 PM

I'm no tracker, but I look to see if I can tell the size and approximate number of "unique" sets of tracks. Are they shod, booted, etc? I also attempt to identify the bones. Do they appear humanoid, avian, etc?

<quietly> Nicodemus, fly up this path and then come back and tell me when you see something dangerous. Try not to be seen. Come right back.

When Nicodemus flies off, I will do a closer scan of the clearing, and attempt to determine it's purpose and see if I can detect any kind of odor coming from the bits of cloth. Now I wish I'd have paid more attention to that doddering fool when he gave me those anthropology lessons.

Spot- did I miss anything in my first glance?
[roll0]

Survival- to try to identify the number and type of tracks
[roll1]

Listen-
[roll2]

Hide- Until Nicodemus returns, but prepared to cast my Sleep spell.
[roll3]

(Readying an action to potentially do so if I see anything more threatening than Nicodemus)

Now I settle down and wait for my silly but incredibly useful (and only) friend.

GoddessSune

2013-03-13, 09:58 PM

Spot:You don't see anything else often then the dirty campsite. Some piles of ash show where fires once burned.
Survival: there are at least a dozen tracks. Most are boot or shoe prints. Large, chunky prints...nothing like fine elven prints(like your own, in fact). There are a couple of paw prints, maybe wolf or dog or such. And a couple of small hoof-like prints, maybe deer. You defiantly don't see any large hoof marks like from a horse.
A lot of the bones are small, so you can be sure enough that they don't come from humanoids. Some look like small legs bones or wing bones. There are some larger bones, but nothing that obviously stands out to you as humanoid (like a skull).
The bits of cloth and leather don't have any strong small you can detect.
Listen: Nothing but the sounds of nature.

Nicodemus flies off for a bit, and then comes back. He lands and shakes his head "Nothing to see" in beautiful flowing elven.

pife

2013-03-13, 10:20 PM

Nicodemus flies off for a bit, and then comes back. He lands and shakes his head "Nothing to see" in beautiful flowing elven.

I cringe at his flawless accent, roll my eyes at him and say.. Stay with me for now. You see, despoiled. Befouled. Ruined. And too numerous for me to do anything about it as yet. Yet, I also wish to go north (assuming north from here will take me just east of the foothills of the mountains), so.. We shall follow this trail carefully for a bit, just to see whence it leads.

For now, Anaglan will cautiously follow the trail, stopping frequently to listen and keeping a sharp eye out, occasionally sending Nicodemus to scout further. If you find them before they find us, I'll buy something shiny just for you! Remember that blue glass bead of Master's that you liked so well? I shall get you one! Just don't let them sneak up on us.

GoddessSune

2013-03-14, 07:27 PM

The trail does lead more or less north. You walk along for several more hours. Then (around 5pm) Nicodemus flies back from a scouting and tells you that another clearing is ahead, but this one has a house in it. And something quite noisy is inside the house.

(Assuming you walk up to get a look)
The clearing is much the same, roughly cut trees and plants and lots of garbage. The 'house' is really not much of a house. It's a pile of logs and bark piled between some trees in a 'T' shape. The house does have a somewhat decent mud and grass roof. The entrance is a patched together tarp made out of skins and furs. Something moves around and makes noise inside.......

.....And out of the 'house' comes a small black haired quadruped beast with huge claws and the head of an owl. The beast is only about four feet tall, but sure looks mean, wild and vicious. It's red rimmed eyes look frantically about and it sniffs the air, looking in your direction......

pife

2013-03-14, 07:46 PM

Willing myself to think quickly, I think about the beast, and what it must be. Quickly, I run down a list in my head of things I try to recall.. Can it climb trees, does it run faster than I, do they travel in packs, is this a full grown version of it? Does it appear to be a pet of some kind ( a collar, some form of leash, chain or rope in the yard outside the "home", other signs of life in the yard)?

Knowledge: Arcana - what is it?
[roll0]

Knowledge: Nature- what is it?
[roll1]

Spot- Looking around to see if there are either trees grown close enough with low branches that I can scramble up one, and leap to the next (haha, with my agility, that should be interesting) if the beast climbs after me, or some kind of hollow that I don't think it could get to me in or destroy trying to get to me. Also (in that same look if possible), looking to see if there is something deep and round (like a helmet, a bucket, or some such contrivance) that is deep enough for the beast to get it's entire head in. (I will roll several more spot checks in case each of my requests requires a separate one, but I literally want this to happen quickly, don't want to lose an action where this beast is going to charge me)
[roll2] (+2 for Alertness (Nicodemus) added)
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

Nicodemus, quickly, what other creatures are here, GO!

GoddessSune

2013-03-14, 08:19 PM

Knowledge Arcana: It's an owlbear, part bear and part owl. Owlbears are not overly know to climb trees(but bears sure climb trees). They are not overly fast, but are at least as fast as you. Owlbears are most often found in packs, but solitary ones are not unknown. Most owlbears you have hear of have been huge, at least 8-10 feet tall. This one must either be young or a type of runt. You see no sign it is a pet, and it sure looks wild.

Knowledge Nature: This is in no way a natural creature.

Spot:The forest is quite thick and rich. You don't have any problem spotting plenty of large easy looking to climb trees. Most of the trees grow quite close together.

You don't see any 'hollow', but the forest floor is covered with dense growth. (And it's small enough to fit where you fit too)

You don't see a helmet or bucket or any other type of manufactured goods laying around. There is a half rotted tree trunk or two that might fit the owlbears head, but chances are it could destroy them easily.

The clearing is a good twenty feet wide and ten feet across, with the trail running along one side and the 'house' between the trees on the other.

This puts the owlbear about fifty feet from you at the start of the encounter. The owlbear in the house, you on the path(or maybe a step or two off it). As you are both aware of each other, we can roll initiative:
Owlbear Initiative [roll0]

Nicodemus flies in a couple tight circles ""That is the only thing I see!

pife

2013-03-14, 08:46 PM

[roll0]

Assuming I go first (unlikely, but hey, it could happen, lol)... I will immediately drop my staff, and I'm either already close enough to an appropriate tree, in which case I double move- climb/climb, or move to the most appropriate tree AWAY from the beast in a move/climb combo.

[roll1]
[roll2]

Haha, hope it's an easy tree to climb...

GoddessSune

2013-03-14, 09:28 PM

The ferocity and speed of the owlbear are quite shocking to you, as you have never seen any creature like this before (and you don't get to go first...) The owlbear covers the distance between the two of you in seconds and hurls it's whole body right at you, claws and beaks leading.

The owlbear attacks!

The owlbears sharp beak slices into your soft skin!
[roll]1d6+1 [5]
Cutting deep into your torso for five points of damage!

pife

2013-03-14, 09:40 PM

Reeling in agony, I realize that I have only one chance at survival.

Painfully weaving and bobbing (casting defensively), I summon my will while darting my hand into my component pouch, flinging a pinch of sand into the owlbear's disgusting visage (I cast Sleep)

Concentration check to cast on the defensive
[roll0] (lol, only a 45% chance to get the spell off, but I can't take another hit)

haha, this is going to be the shortest solo game you've ever run..

GoddessSune

2013-03-14, 10:00 PM

The owlbear takes it's AoO!

(1d20+1)[5]

The owlbear misses with it's AoO (we will just ignore your casting defensively mistype...)

The tiny bits of sand sparkle as the move into the owlbears eyes...

GoddessSune

2013-03-14, 10:11 PM

Owlbear makes it wil save vs your sleep spell:
1d20+1 (1d20+1)[6]

The owlbear blinks it's red rimmed eyes at you once, twice and then the third time it slumps to the ground and falls into a deep sleep.

pife

2013-03-14, 10:43 PM

Assuming I am not aware of any super-valuable Owlbear pieces..

I use two flasks of my oil, and carefully (but swiftly) SMOTHER the owlbear in it. I then back away about 10 feet, and either... If you will allow Prestidigitation to do something like light a pipe or fire, I use that to set the owlbear on fire. If that is not allowed by the spell, I will load my crossbow, light a torch, light the owlbear on fire by tossing the torch on him, and then put a crossbow bolt in him. and then I RUN, as fast as I can toward, (but not into) the house, running around it if it appears that the firebear is chasing me.

I'm afraid if I try to coup de grace it, I'll just end up waking it up pissed off. I'm hoping that the extra oil in his fur will cook him like a prime rib. Mmmm.. Cheesebearger!!

GoddessSune

2013-03-14, 11:32 PM

What Prestidigitation can do: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=dnd/ex/20010707

You use prestidigitation to make a bit of fire and start the owlbear on fire!
Fire Damage: [roll0]
Save:[roll1]
Fire Damage(if save failed) [roll2]

The owlbear catches on fire, awakes up, burns, rolls around on the ground, screaming like crazy. Until it rolls to a stop, dies and simply burns.

pife

2013-03-15, 09:06 AM

Knowing that the smell might attract more predators, I quickly look inside the log hut, searching for anything of interest or value before trying to find a safe place to lay up for the night. I need to clean and bind my wound quickly before it festers.

Search
[roll0]

I've had DM's in the past that say that since a candle flame causes injury, and prestidigitation can't cause injury, ergo prestidigitation can't create flame. (haha, a very harsh interpretation of the spell text).

GoddessSune

2013-03-15, 08:19 PM

The 'log hut' contains more garbage. The shredded remains of some type of leather sacks are on one side of the hut, with a couple scraps of dried beef laying about. A poor quality axe lays on the floor. And some fresh owlbear droppings.

I guess that makes sense. Though a bit of flame, like a candle flame won't even do one point of damage. That list is from Wizards, so it's semi-official.

pife

2013-03-15, 09:00 PM

If the beef looks reasonbly edible, i take it. I quickly rummage through the sacks just in case, taking anything that appears valuable;, but I don't linger more than a moment.

It's time to find a place to camp. In graceful and lilting Elvish, Nicodemus. Please help me find a nearby tree in that direction
.. I point North.. that has a hollow in the branches that I can fit in. Do you understand what I need? Say it back to me, this is important.

And I set off looking for just such a tree, to bind my wounds, and pray to the Beastlord for sending me this vile beast to test my resolve. And give thanks to Him to for providing me with the will to survive. "One beast against another", Anaglan thinks proudly. (and a bit grandly for such a narrow victory over such a beast).

In case they're needed: if not, ignore them

The beef? Survival [roll0]
Search the bags? Search- [roll1]
Find a tree (hopefully helped by Nicodemus?) Survival- [roll2]
Bind wounds? Heal [roll3]

GoddessSune

2013-03-15, 09:28 PM

The dryed beef is half chewed and covered in owlbear slobber, but it is still ''edible''. There is nothing much else in the bag, or 'house', for that matter.

Nicodemus "Find hide tree! Squirrel home!"

Nic leads you to a tree with a huge medium sized hollow, grown just behind two other trees(hard to see from the ground, but easy to spot from the air).

You are able (to quite amazingly well) bind up your wounds once your in your tree hole.

pife

2013-03-16, 01:23 AM

By the shaded light of the last of my oil in my hooded lantern, I attempt to study my spellbook, if it's possible, before quickly gnawing on some nuts and berries, having left the beef behind. I know that Nicodemus seems a fairly light sleeper, so I attempt to go to sleep for the night..

GoddessSune

2013-03-17, 01:43 AM

You get some study time in. After all, focusing on your magic allows you to forget about the material world, and things like the massive cut across your torso.

Nicodemus flies about, but not too far as he keeps an eye on you.

Though note as an elf, you don't sleep, you reverie. Elves do not sleep but find their rest in a meditative state called “reverie” which is as restful as true sleep but leaves them aware of their surroundings. Often in reverie an elf will remember their life so far. It's rare for an elf to 'dream'(that is have a random/unknown story made by their unconscious mind play out for them) and they more often just replay a memory. But some times........

You eventually rest as the night time sounds of the wild forest fade away around you. And you find yourself...elsewhere.....in a large grassy field. And your body is fur covered, with paws and big long ears.....much like a rabbit. Then a massive wolf comes out of the grass, chases you and nearly bites you in half. Then a voice echos ''are you predator or prey?'' over and over again. Then the cycle starts again with tiny fur clad you in the tall grass...

You come out of the trance in the morning, just as the first rays of dawn peak over the tree tops of the forest.

Healing:Your night of rest gives you back one hit point.

pife

2013-03-17, 08:58 AM

You get some study time in.

You eventually rest as the night time sounds of the wild forest fade away around you. And you find yourself...elsewhere.....in a large grassy field. And your body is fur covered, with paws and big long ears.....much like a rabbit. Then a massive wolf comes out of the grass, chases you and nearly bites you in half. Then a voice echos ''are you predator or prey?'' over and over again. Then the cycle starts again with tiny fur clad you in the tall grass...

You come out of the trance in the morning, just as the first rays of dawn peak over the tree tops of the forest.

I re-study Prestidigitation, and Sleep.

I wake to the dream uneasily and feel as though perhaps I've been through a test. Did i pass? Did I fail? Surely, survival and the death of your foe must be considered victory, however narrow the margin. I decide to take the dream to heart. I am being tested, as surely a predator's skills are always tested. I must grow stronger. I must sharpen my fangs, and lengthen the reach of my claws. I am inspired!

Checking the dressing on my wound, and wolfing down the last of the nuts and berries .(sharing with Nicodemus if he enjoys such fare, I often share my food with him) just looked up the eating habits of ravens, and it's pretty wide open, so other than him being picky, I'm assuming that as long as I can eat, so can he, is that reasonable?

I know that I must be careful today, as climbing down out of the tree tested my wound fiercely. I check the string on my crossbow, and load it. For now, I'm strapping my staff to my pack and moving as swiftly as I can, but making sure to find good resting spots, and early, as I need to avoid notice while I heal.

heading toward Illusk, by the quickest and safest route for a person on foot given current weather and other known obstacles.

A few rolls, in case they're needed;

Survival- [roll0]
Knowledge:Nature- [roll1]
Heal- [roll2]

GoddessSune

2013-03-17, 09:17 PM

The day is mostly overcast and cool. Dark shadows fill the forest through the tree tops. The rough trail still heads northward, and the wilderness is quite rugged else where, so you mostly stick to the trail.

It is a bit after noon when Nicodemus flies back to say the trail ahead leads to a small village of humans.

Nicodemus
In general, and especially in the wild, Nicodemus can feed himself. He spends plenty of time as he flies about eating. He is always nibbling on fruits/berries and anything else he might find in the tree tops such as small birds or snakes. But even in the city, he is fine eating 'garbage' and poop(yuck).

pife

2013-03-18, 07:09 AM

Well, that suits me just fine. I will approach the village. Assuming that they have an inn, I would like to check into the smallest room that has a locking door. Probably planning to stay two days to let my wound heal a bit.

Will also spend some time in the common room if there is one, just attempting to gather rumors and news of the road ahead.

Gather Information - [roll0]

GoddessSune

2013-03-19, 12:36 PM

The ''village'' hardly deserves the name. It is only twelve very crude log, grass and mud buildings arranged in a rocky ravine. The buildings don't have any markings on them, but they all look like homes. The ravine itself is very mud filled, though some crude vine ropes have been made so people can climb down to the village bottom.

You see two human females washing laundry in a muddy water hole, two human males working on a adding more grass to a roof and one human male butchering a small animal on a stump. The humans are dressed in little more then scraps of clothing.

A human in a partial set of leather armor, held together mostly by grass ropes and a club sees you and moves over from a stump. "Well met there, faerie. Welcome to Muldor's Pit, the finest mud filled place around. We don't get many faeries around here. You don't look so good, you get cut by something? We got a speaker to the gods, she might be able to patch you up. Give you a place to rest. You got any gold or other shinny metals? Maybe some elf magic?" he says in common.

pife

2013-03-19, 01:46 PM

'Oh, how remarkable,' I think to myself as I'm approached by Mudlar the Bold. 'They taught it to speak, how cute'...

<smiling in what I hope is a friendly manner>
No, no, my good man, no need to trouble yourself on my account.. I had a small bit of trouble with an owlbear den a few miles back, but they won't be bothering anyone any more..

As for gold or magic, I'm afraid I'm bereft of either. And I can't rightly be called a faerie either, as the only elf in my family tree is my greatsire. Mostly, I just got the ears, mores the pity. Tommagin Hobbs, humble scribe, at your service! If you need letters written or read, I'm your man. First page is free, don't ye know? On my way to Illusk, I have an uncle there that says I can find work in the library. Not as much excitement as I would have here, but I do love to read, don't you?

Now, I do have a pair of silver pieces that I'd be happy to give in trade for a hearty meal and a warm bed to sleep on. Are you Muldor, perchance?

I will be paying close attention to my surroundings. Are most of the people here armed, even when doing manual labor? Are they giving me the "evil" eye? Tatoo's or jewelry that would indicate religion or more wealth than makes sense?

GoddessSune

2013-03-19, 08:00 PM

"Ah, no, I'm not Mudlar. He lives down in his pit. I'm Lotop the Loud. And you sure look like a faire to me, even dressed like one. Your a scribe? Why, by the dark cloak of Shar, are you out walking around by yourself? The wilderness is not safe. And read, bah, who needs to know that. And Illusk, ah, the great big city. You got silver coins? Well, I can offer a grass mat and a meal of cooked rats."

Lotop is armed with a club and the man cutting up the small animal has at least two knives. No one else you can see is armed, per say, but you can see a club or staff here or there(a staff rests stuck in the mud outside a doorway). No one much seems to give you much of an 'eye', other then to look over and see that you are there.

You don't really see any signs of jewelry or tattoos, or signs or markings even. Everyone you can see looks like a poor, partly mud covered human in ragged clothing.

pife

2013-03-19, 08:21 PM

Splendid, I like them so much more when they're cooked. Part of me wants to leave this place, not take the chance.. But I do need to rest and tend my wound. Anaglan is not squeamish, and will happily eat the meal provided.

I hand the man two silver coins. and... crud, I only HAVE one silver piece.. I try to make it look intentional and lay a gold piece next to the silver. Your kindness will be remembered, and appreciated. What time do we eat?

GoddessSune

2013-03-19, 08:40 PM

Lotop the Loud smiles big when he sees the gold coin. "We can eat any time you'd like." as he takes the silver and gold coins. "Come"

Lotop leads you down one of the muddy hillsides along one of the grass tied rope that he slides down with one hand. Then he leads you over to one of the log and mud huts. Once inside he grabs a couple rats out of a cage by the door and with sharp twists with his bare hands, kills them. He then starts a small fire in the fire pit and puts the rat meat on sharp sticks over the flame.

The log, mud, and grass hut is not much to look at. A couple of crude chairs(stumps with branches pounded into one side), a table (a large stump), the cage(a mess of interlocking branches at least to small for a rat to get out of), two grass mats along the wall and the circle of stones for the cook fire.

"Be ready in just a minute." he says watching the cooking rat meat.

pife

2013-03-19, 08:55 PM

Following Lotop, ..So Lotop, how long have you lived here? What do you do here?

quietly to Nicodemus Go play for a bit, but tell me if you see anything odd.

So what's this I hear about a god-speaker?

GoddessSune

2013-03-20, 11:56 AM

Lotop the Loud "Ah, I have lived here for years. I guess. I never lived anywhere else. I was born on foot, ya know. Do? Well, I live mostly. I don't got many skills, but I'm good enough with a club. And I can move around heavy stuff. Cut a good tree down.

Nicodemus nods "Play, Play(tyal, tyal in elven)'' and flies off.

"Yea, Hedvika is our god speaker. She has the voice of Zuggtmoy in her head. She should be able to see to your wound. You want me to send for her?"

pife

2013-03-20, 02:01 PM

What do I know about Zuggtmoy? As a player, I think I recall her to be a lesser/demi god from the Greyhawk pantheon, portfolio is something like fungi, slimes, etc..

Knowl: Arcane (maybe) [roll0]

untrained Knowl: Religion [roll1]

Nay, friend, do not trouble yourself. I'm afraid I'm too poor at the moment to offer a gift to the gods for their blessings. Sharing your food and your shelter will suffice for me. I must be back on the road on the morrow, though.

Lotop, I am curious though.. I had read in a book that this area had a lot of followers of some primal wilderness god. Have you ever heard of this god, or his followers? I think he's called.. Malar...

GoddessSune

2013-03-20, 07:17 PM

Knowledge:Arcana-You know magic exists
Knowledge:Religion-You can't make an untrained Knowledge check. An untrained Knowledge check is simply an Intelligence check. But that is enough for you to know Zuggtmoy is a demon lord of fungi.

Lotop the Loud "Aye, I have heard the god-name Malar before. But don't know much more. Mudlar and Hedvika are the smart ones around here. Oh, and Covan, he is a ranger and he travels a lot."

pife

2013-03-20, 07:45 PM

Knowledge:Arcana-You know magic exists
Knowledge:Religion-You can't make an untrained Knowledge check. An untrained Knowledge check is simply an Intelligence check. But that is enough for you to know Zuggtmoy is a demon lord of fungi.

Oops, yes, that's what I meant, sorry.

Lotop the Loud "Aye, I have heard the god-name Malar before. But don't know much more. Mudlar and Hedvika are the smart ones around here. Oh, and Covan, he is a ranger and he travels a lot."

I see, Covan, you say? Where does he travel? Is he here now?

GoddessSune

2013-03-20, 09:04 PM

Lotop the Loud "Ah, um, Covan is not here now, um, I don't think. At least I have not seem him yet today. He travels, um, around. Not really sure where, but he comes back here every couple of days."

pife

2013-03-20, 09:17 PM

I'll get quiet on him. Maybe he'll explain more, if there is more to hear. Otherwise, I will content myself with getting warm by the fire, and awaiting my delicate feast of scorched rat.

Uncertain if there is anything of interest here, I will go along with and engage in conversation, but if Lotop falls to silence, I plan to let him. When Nicodemus returns, before I sleep, I will privately speak with him. Nicodemus, I plan to leave here before the sun rises. Stay close, we may not be safe.

GoddessSune

2013-03-20, 10:06 PM

Lotop the Loud "Ah, sorry I don't know much. Never was one for smarts. But Mudlar and Hedvika are the smart ones around here. Mudlar is a wizard, so he knows a lot. He can even read. And Hedvika has lots of god stuff in her head."

Lotop finishes cooking the meat, and gives you your rat-on-a-stick with a clay cup of water.

pife

2013-03-21, 06:41 AM

Well then perhaps since I'm only here for the one night, I should meet Mudlar. This is his town, isn't it? What kind of things can he do with his magic?

So, does anything appear incongruous here, is anything just "out of place"? So far, it seems like a fairly normal little hunter-gatherer village of early humans, but I'm not wanting to be caught unawares, so I'm keeping my eyes open for anything that just doesn't fit.

GoddessSune

2013-03-22, 02:31 AM

Lotop the Loud "Mudlar can do lots with magic. Fireballs, lights that dance and move stuff without touching it. And he makes monsters. Though lots of his spells use mud too. He is a little odd, like most wizards, but he keeps order here and keeps the village safe. Just a moon or so ago he made a whole army of mud men to fight off some orc raiders."

You don't see much of anything out of place, unless you count that the only main town cleric worships a Demon Lord. Technically it's a village of post apocalyptic human survivors.

pife

2013-03-22, 10:58 AM

I should very much like to meet him. But tell me, Lotop, in light of your kindness and friendship, is there anything that I can do for you?

GoddessSune

2013-03-22, 07:56 PM

Lotop the Loud "Do for me? Well, I don't really need anything done. Unless you got more gold, or maybe some elf magic. I'm a simple man really.

We can go call on Mudlar any time. He dose like meet people....sometimes"

pife

2013-03-22, 08:10 PM

What would you do with elf-magic? And we can wait till you finish eating before we go see Mudlar..

GoddessSune

2013-03-23, 03:43 AM

Lotop the Loud "I'd use elf magic to become rich and powerful. Rule the town, maybe a city. Elf magic can do that. But even a little magic can help, like elf boots to hunt quiet or elf bows to hit any animal. Or just elf speak to the animals and tell them to let use eat them. "

Lotop eats his meal in just two huge bites.

"I'm ready to go if you are"

pife

2013-03-23, 11:28 AM

Wiping charred rat grease off of my fingers onto my ragged cloak, I stand ready to follow Lotop.

Lead on, my friend.

GoddessSune

2013-03-23, 08:20 PM

Lotop the Loudleads you out of the hut and over to more or less the middle of the village. There is a pool of thick mud that ripples just a bit. A wooden bucket filled with flat stones sits next to the pool. Lotop picks up a flat stone and scratches three small circles on it with a sharp rock. Then he drops the stone into the mud pool and it quickly sinks out of sight.

"This should only take a couple minutes." Says Lotop as he watches the pool of mud.

Around five minutes later the pool of mud churns and bubbles. Then a geyser of mud shoots out of the mud pool, curves in mid air and flows back to the ground next to you. The mud flows into a pile, but quickly wiggles about and forms itself into a humanoid shape, and then into the shape of an old human male in brown robes.

"Well met, I'm Mudlar the Great! Nice too meet you!"

LoreScroll Human civilization reached what humans would call it's height with Netheril. The humans of Neth dominated all human life in the North. Through trade or force or trickery or magical powers, there were few humans that did not feel the touch of Netheril. But like many things human, they simply went too far. The arcanists, and there chosen bureaucrats controlled the lives of thousands and thousands of humans. Very few humans needed to do much of anything for themselves. There were overseer humans to do the thinking. Worse, the Netherese used magic to such a perversion, that humans did not need to do anything. Within only a couple human generation, the vast bulk of humanity in the North lost even the most basic skills.

Magic was the root of all the problems for humans. With magic, humans did everything. Creating food, cooking, cleaning and everything else. And after a couple of generation of simply conjuring food and having it cooked for them and prepared for them, they lost all knowledge of farming, cooking, food preparation and nearly everything else. But they did not really feel the loss, as they did not need the knowledge. After all they got everything they needed at the flick of a spell or the use of a magic item. The humans thought that magic was eternal and would always be there to do the work for them. But they were wrong....

Netheril fell. And for several minutes all magic failed. Thousands of humans died in those moments. Magic was the glue for everything human. And without it doom rained. The enclaves, flying by magic fell from the skies, of course, but also thousands of lesser magics also faded and lead to mass death and destruction. For example a simple dam made of imprisoned earth elementals faded away and washed away a whole town in minutes. And that was far from the worst of it. A great deal of magic, once the Weave returned was warped or twisted or altered. And again in those first few moments after magic returned, thousands of upon thousands humans died. And for the final tragedy magic changed, all the arcanists and magic users suddenly found themselves without the power to fix anything or save anyone. Not even themselves as many humans took the chance to exercise vengeance on the helpless spellcasters.

And the worst was yet to come. The small pockets of humans that did survive were often quite helpless. They did not even know the most basic skills of life and living. Over the next couple of years, thousands more died from this lack of knowledge. Still humans are a tough and hardy race, so they managed to survive. Some were helped by other races, such as the elves and the dwarves. But plenty of humans took the long, hard road of relearning all the basic skills of life. At least half of the humans remained close to nature, living off the land. But some of them took the even longer, harder road back to civilization. But this left a great many humans, scattered about like bugs, and not living much better then bugs, nipping at the branches of the great elven civilizations...to no good end If I should say so myself.

Rennloth Venterlli, LoreSpeaker of Labelas Enoreth, reckoning of the Dale 33

pife

2013-03-24, 11:28 AM

I am rather impressed, and I'm sure that shows on my face. I bow smartly to Mudlar.

Well met indeed Mudlar! I am Anaglan Kernigan, on my way to Illusk to seek work as a scribe. I am possessed of small talents in the Art, and always seek to meet learned practitioners of it on my travels. I am honored to make your acquaintance, and would be overwhelmed if I could pass some time with you, and hearing your tales.

GoddessSune

2013-03-24, 09:58 PM

Mudlar the Great "Well met, well met. Oh? A fellow worker of the Art? My, my, been a while sense I could talk spells with anyone. "

Mudlar waves his hands about and casts at least two spells. Mud from all around flows over to him and forms into a table, four chairs, eight pillars and a curved roof. The table, pillars and roof all harden into stone, but the chairs only harden on the bottom and stay semi soft on the seat back and seat bottoms.

Mudlar walks over and sits down in the shade in one of the chairs. " Come and sit with me,"

LoreScroll I was born in the small rural town of Dunbar on the edge of the Green Feilds in Low Netheril in the Year of Enchanted Parchment. I lived quite a life of luxury. With the wave of a hand I could get endless food, water, clothing and any other need I might want. Unseen servants and summoned creatures did all the manual labor. My father was a scribe, and such so was I also a scribe. My own cantras reflected this, allowing me to animate a quill to write without using my hands and copy written words by touch. I had just grown to adulthood and was on my way to an arranged marriage at the end of the year, when that all changed.

For one day, suddenly, all magic simply faded away and did not work. We had no idea what had happened at the time. But we would later learn it was the Fall of Netheril. As I wondered why I could not animate my quill, enclaves across the empire were falling from the skies and thousands of people were dying. Magic returned a couple moments later, but not like it was before. None of our magic items worked. I, nor anyone else, could call upon the power of their contras. Spellcasters could not cast spells, and arcainists could not use magic at all. The dozens of unseen servants that worked the fields and everything else, were simply gone and were not coming back.

As the days moved on, my family and everyone else came to the same conclusion. That we would have to live our lives without out magic. But that proved almost impossible. Our town was nowhere near a water source. It did not matter when everyone had everfull water barrels, but now we had nothing. No one had any food, after all why store food when it could be created with the wave of a hand. There was food in the fields, but we had no way to even harvest it. But we did not even know the word harvest then. We simply tapped a stone and the unseen servants gathered, processed and prepared the food from the fields. We had no idea how to do that. And more so, we hardly had any tools. And even the tools we did have, we had no idea how to use. We had few food animals and no way to butcher them.

And worse. When magic did return, much of it was twisted and altered and changed. Our food table would forever more only make rotten food. Our neighbors restful bed exploded and destroyed the upper level of their house. Animated objects became hostile. Teleport circles took people to random spots or even dropped them in lava or worse. It was the same for gates.

I myself could not even write. It was rare for me to hold a quill, as I simply animated them with my cantra. Not that it mattered after the Fall. No one needed a scribe when they did not have even food or water. And darker days were to come. People turned on magic and blamed it for the Fall. Spellcasters were a common target. And they were mostly helpless, being largely unable to use their magic. Many took the chance to get revenge or vengeance on a spellcaster. And man turning on man was not the worst of it. As the inhuman creatures soon learned of the weakness of the humans. Massive orc raids, goblin raids, dragon raids and such assaulted the empire from all sides. And that does not even account for the Lifedrain spells, that were accelerated dozens of times right before magic faded, but came back with that same speed.

Human civilization was finished. Netheril was gone. Vast groups of humans had little chance but to go 'back to nature' to survive. Becoming tribes of humans that hunted and gathered in small tribes. Humans, living much the way orcs or goblins lived. Most of my family did not live very long after the Fall. But I went on. I became the lore keeper of my tribe. The keeper of the scrolls of history. I forced myself to learn how to write, mostly trying to remember the movements I remembered my animated quill doing. Like other humans I learned how to hunt and cook and do all the things needed to live. The other races were a great help to use humans, from the orcs to the elves. Without them, humans in the north might have well gone and died out.

And we got magic back. The smartest humans figured out the changes and again had spells and magic items. No where near as easy as the magic of Netheril, no where near what was lost. But it was something. But I like must humans living tribally, doing things from myself, saw no real need for magic. Ever again.

Darndki the ScrollWalker of the Elk Tribe.

pife

2013-03-25, 06:50 AM

Any chance of a spellcraft check to figure out what kind of spells are going into this? Do I recognize any of it?

[roll0]

I am nearly salivating at the magic this man is throwing around so effortlessly. With power such as this at my fingertips...

I will be most glad to! I sit down carefully on one of the chairs. Truly, it is humbling being in the presence of one as accomplished in the Art as yourself. For myself, I only recently completed my apprenticeship, and am still searching for my path in life. I mentioned before that I was travelling to Illusk, for to take a position as a scribe, hopefully for a generous mage who might allow me to earn the opportunity to learn new spells.

But I'm being rude! Please, Master Mudlar, tell me about yourself, and how you came to be in this place. You have a different magical style than any mage I've ever seen, though my experience is limited, as you know. I admit that I'm fascinated, and would love to hear more.

GoddessSune

2013-03-26, 12:22 PM

Spellcraft
This is what spellcraft is for: It's not too supprising that he has cast Shape Mud, Transmute Mud to Stone...though both spells are also altered by metamagic you don't recognize.

Mudlar the Great walks over and sits in one of the chairs. "Why it is so rare to meet a fellow user of the art.

I live here as I fell here...oh years ago. I was up there in the sky, fighting some yrthak. One hit me with quite a blow and I fell out of the sky like a rock. And landed right there in that pool of mud. The mud saved my life. And I have lived here ever sense.

And that is when I started the study of the stuff that saved my life, mud! Mud is wonderful! Mud is special. I talk to the mud, and the mud talks back. The mysteries of all are in the mud. "

pife

2013-03-27, 08:38 AM

That's fascinating, Master Mudlar. Does mud have the same primitive cognizance that my Master tells me is in all natural things, such as rocks or trees, or have you been able to discover some force of personality in the mud, something greater than just an awareness of ones surroundings?

Knowing that there is power and ability sitting right in front of me, I attempt to determine my best path to walking away from here more knowledgeable and/or powerful than when I arrived. I am actually interested in what he is saying, so will be attentive and focused. But I also have personal motives for pursuing this conversation.

What would you say is the most intriguing discovery you've made about mud since you arrived here?

Somewhere in the conversation, I would like to slip this in..

Master Mudlar, I consider myself something of a student of philosophy. I bring this up for two reasons. You see, I am currently studying the effects of predator/prey relationship. I am fascinated by the potential for societal and even cultural change based on how nearly the cultural "norm" adheres to this evolution. It would seem to me that most of the "positive" influences in society are granted from the direct benefits of predatory behavior. Quick thinking, assertiveness, self reliance, making decisions for the good of the group rather than the good of the one, ... It has been this line of thinking that has led me to review some of the dogma of Malar the Beastlord.. I don't claim to be bloodthirsty in the way that some of his followers are, but I see a definite causal link between his teachings and an effective and practical ecology. If the weak, the sick and the lame are removed from the breeding stock, then what remains, predator or prey, will be of superior talent and ability.

It seems to me that many practitioners of magic are also.. predatory in their nature. But also, mages are practical in the way that they approach learning new things. Like lion cubs that practice stalking for days, in the guise of "playful roughhousing", young mages will endure nearly any hardship to acquire one more line in their precious books. Some do this by merely taking what they want from others. Others, especially those of the higher order, learn to identify excellence, and leverage it for mutual gain, but not always through violence.

Master Mudlar, there is much that I can learn from you. You are, not to put too fine a point on it, an apex hunter. You have earned the respect of those living in your "den". There are no naturally occurring enemies in this, your designated domain. You utilize your senses, and your abilities to ensure that you and yours have sufficient food, shelter and security. I aspire to such lofty achievement myself, as long as the wisdom to make good choices is exercised with it.

Are there any tasks that you would see completed, or other trade that could be enacted, that would encourage you to allow me to trade my services for a bit of your hard won knowledge, in the form of magical knowledge or ability? I would consider it a boon favor if you could allow one such as me to earn your favor, your teaching, and your insights.

GoddessSune

2013-03-27, 09:07 PM

Mudlar the Great "I'm afraid I don't know much about elven magic or such natural things. But the mud is a conduit for the dreams of the megalith! Bet you have never heard of a megalith? Well, your standing on it right now. This whole of everything is not a planet, but a megalith. A giant planet sized ball like creature. Named Urt. It's not very active, and in fact is quite dormant. But it does dream. And the dreams flow through it's crust. But the mud, the mud! The mud picks up the dreams and stores them, and brings them all the way up here to the surface.

Magic is predatory? Hummm, never thought of it that way, but guess you can say it is. Magic sure is all about who has the most power. I'm glad you like my, um, den. I have a whole army of mud men to keep it safe. I never really meant to make my own village, it just sort of happened.

I've not met or spoken with another mage in, oh, years. Ever sense my fall into the mud. I've had no one to share my anything with, no one to trade with. I've never even had an apprentice. But I'm getting older. Even with magic I can't live forever. And I have started to think about what I leave behind. I tried to write things down, but I'm just not a writer.

You would not happen to know where I could get my hands on one of them elven lore gems? An empty one that I could fill up with all my mud knowledge?

pife

2013-03-28, 08:08 AM

(Is he talking about a Kiira? And can't those only be used by elves? And does Anaglan know about any of that? (And does he have a clue about where an empty, poorly guarded Kiira is, if such a thing exists)?

How fortuitous, Master Mudlar. It just so happens that I write a fine hand. Please, let me know if you would be interested in having me transcribe your thoughts or memoirs for you. As I said, I was on the way to Illusk to take work as a scribe. I would be happy to help you prepare your legacy. I'm certain I would find the work fascinating and enlightening. And it would give me greater opportunity to learn of Urt.

GoddessSune

2013-03-29, 01:05 AM

Of course, he is talking about a kiira. Yes they can only be used by elves. Anaglan would know the basics. You would have seen a couple dozen at least over the years. It's common for elves to have storytelling circles, where a noble elf will tell a story(favorable to their view point and house) by accessing the lore gem. There are, of course, no empty poorly guarded kiias.

Mudlar the Great "Trans-scribe? Well, that sounds like a wonderful idea. Though I still would not mind having one of them wondrous gems. But a book, a tome, ah, yes. Maybe something nice and bound, that I can give to Candelkeep. Oh, yes.

pife

2013-04-01, 06:37 AM

Hey, sorry for the radio silence. I have been sick the last few days, and am really behind at work. I will be able to pick up and start posting again tomorrow. Very sorry for the delay.

GoddessSune

2013-04-01, 08:40 AM

Hey, sorry for the radio silence. I have been sick the last few days, and am really behind at work. I will be able to pick up and start posting again tomorrow. Very sorry for the delay.

Ok :smallsmile:

pife

2013-04-02, 11:22 AM

Well, Master Mudlar, I'm afraid I cannot help you with the lore gem. I have seen quite a few, coming from an elven community, but I'm afraid that they only work for elves, and they are extremely prized, and would not be carelessly guarded.

Depending on the circumstances, we might be able to agree to work together to put your thoughts and experiences on paper. But, this would likely take a fair amount of time, and I'm curious what price you might find fair for my assistance?

Basically, Anaglan is fishing for an opportunity to learn more spells. He knows that this is definitely an "unscheduled" stop in his career, but the opportunity for learning additional spells at little risk to himself sounds mighty tempting .

GoddessSune

2013-04-02, 06:46 PM

Mudlar the Great "No lore gem? That is too bad. But, oh well. I do really like the idea of having a book at Candlekeep. Mudlar's Tome of Might! Has a nice ring to it. And, of course I'd pay for your service as a scribe. The standard rate is a silver a finger a day, right? So at least a couple weeks, say a month. So that would be 12 gold? Maybe just make it an even 15 gold?"

pife

2013-04-02, 07:32 PM

Holding out my hand, I offer to heartily shake Mudlar's hand. Throw in the opportunity to hear your stories, and perhaps do some exploring in the woods at least once per ride, and you have a deal.. If, that is, you have sufficient paper? I have only a limited amount with me at present, certainly not enough to pen an entire book.

My mind is turning, calculating. A month of writing for this eccentric old man, and the opportunity to possibly glean some arcane knowledge in the bargain. And being paid! Not a king's ransom, to be sure, but still!

I have every intention of beginning this endeavor in a very accomodating, very industrious manner. I will, (for at least two weeks), avoid poking around, or intentionally trying to find/learn anything. To all appearances, he will be an enthusiastic and helpful employee, courteous and intuitive.

I haven't thought far enough ahead to know if I will try to press some kind of advantage. This old man is strange enough for me not to hate him immediately, and in fact, i am rather fond of him.

With a full belly, a healing wound, and interesting and earthy companions, neither as destructive and disrespectful of nature as he had imagined other humans to be, nor as arrogant and self-righteous as the elves he despised.

When alone, I will talk to and play with Nicodemus, and will see if he learned/saw anything interesting today. (I do share limited amounts of secure information with him, as long as I think he can avoid blurting it out. I know he's smarter than people give him credit for).

GoddessSune

2013-04-02, 10:34 PM

Mudlar the Great shakes your hand back.

It takes a day for Mudlar to get a blank book, some quills and some bottles of ink. (He summons a Dao and sends him off to DeepWater Bay for the items). During that day, Mudlar has some mud men clear an area and build a crude branch, sticks, stones and mud hut for you.

You work with Mudlar in the stone spot. From sunrise to sunset. Mudlar spends some time talking about himself, then you read them back to him, then he makes additions and corrections. After sunset your 'free' to do other things, but you spend most of your time working on the book.

Healing
You gain a hit point per day of rest, so it's only a couple days until you are back to full hit points.

pife

2013-04-03, 07:13 AM

Okay, that's pretty impressive..

I make sure to socialize with Lotop (and potentially other residents) in the evenings. I'm not sure what I'm listening for, but I realize that I have to be ready when opportunity knocks.

I hadn't imagined that I would be spending a month writing an old wizards memoirs for him, but the opportunity was too good to pass up.

Basically, other than being a good little scribe, the only things I'm doing are..

1. Trying to improve my relationship with Mudlar. My ultimate goal here is that hopefully, at the end of the month, I will have had the opportunity and permission to learn a couple of new spells.

2. Practicing my spellcasting, and woodcraft.. If anyone in the "village" is a good hunter, I try to learn from them. I definitely want to improve my skills in the woods

3. Taking notes and sketching wildlife. Especially predators. I want to study apex predators and learn from them.

4. In my own simple way, I want to pray to Malar for guidance. I feel his calling, his lust to course and hunt and pursue and to drag down prey. I feel like this sensation is normally under the surface. I just don't know how to honor him. But I'm enthusiastic in my prayers.

5. Since I got to watch it being built, I want to "work on" my hut. Basically, I'm trying to commit it to memory in case I ever need to build a shelter like this in the future. But I experiment with building small structures out of natural materials, especially as it pertains to camoflauging it.

6. Maintaining some form of friendship with Lotop. (Many predators are pack or at least "partner" type animals). I get lonely, even with Nicodemus, and occasionally crave interaction.

GoddessSune

2013-04-04, 07:51 PM

1.Mudlar is a bit distant at first, but he slowly warms up. He seems to be very happy writing his book.

2. Covan turns up in the middle of the second week. He is a good hunter and woodsman. He is happy to train you a bit in nature lore. He even gets Mudlar to give you a couple hours off around midday somedays so he can show you things.

3. plenty of animals around to watch and study

4. You don't get a definite sign that you can tell...unless you count say watching a hawk swoop down and grab a field mouse.

5. You practice mud hut building. They don't need much 'camouflage' as they already look like a natural part of the land.

6. Lotop is friendly enough, and loves to hear ''elf stories''. Really anything you say about elves. Most others are semi-freindly, but just don't seem to care much about anything.

pife

2013-04-04, 08:32 PM

I will continue writing dutifully, but at one point, if the conversation strays or if he is being especially complimentary, I would like to make a tentative comment along the lines of.. "Master Mudlar, is it too presumptuous, too bold to hope that I might have the opportunity to learn perhaps a spell or two from you? It would truly be an honor.". Depending on his reaction, I would either keep nudging, or find another route.

I will eventually put points into Craft: Sketching, or Profession: Artist, and I continue to sketch animals.

I gently probe to see if Malar is an acceptable topic of discussion or debate for Mudlar. If it is, I learn what I can. Also, if it is an acceptable topic, I inquire about the ability of the dao to fetch items from afar. If that conversation is still going well, I might ask if it could find a text or history or treatise or other document that discusses him.

I am particularly enthusiastic about the hunting and woodcraft lessons with Covan. I'd going to think about a way to give him (and possibly Lotop) some kind of gift. Securing allies is always a good idea, and a "heartfelt" gift might go a long way. I don't really know how to make anything, but I'll keep pondering.

While I spend some time pondering the hawk and the field mouse, I don't have strong feelings that it was an omen, and even if it was, I don't know how to interpret it.

I'm going to start paying attention at about this time, and attempt to notice any obviously magical equipment or surroundings, learn his routine, learn his rituals, if any. I will also see if I notice anything about his spellbook. What it looks like, where it is, what guards it if possible. I don't plan to risk being caught at this point, I'm just doing my homework. If I even have the slightest inkling that I might be obvious, I will revert back to Super-Scribe mode until the coast is clear again.

GoddessSune

2013-04-04, 10:47 PM

Mudlar is a bit secretive about his spells and seems unwilling to really talk about it. He does plan in putting his spells into the Tome, making it a spellbook. With a bit of prodding, he does agree that you can copy the spells into the Tome, and also make a copy for yourself.

Mudlar does not seam to want to talk about Malar, and/or just does not know much. He is willing to talk about the dao, the elemental earth genies. After all part of his history is his trip to the Elemental Plane of Earth and the Great Dismal Delve.

Corvan, on the other hand, does talk about Malar late at night around the fire. He respects Malar as a god of hunting and nature, but thinks too many followers go too far. He knows of an orc tribe in the Sword Mountains that worship Malar. And he has been to a holy site of Malar, the Pit of Blood, in the town of Ironhole(a mining town also in the Sword Mnts.)

Mudlar is secretive. He lives at the bottom of the mud pit in the center of the village. No one else has ever been down there. He obviously has a bag of holding. He is always wearing two rings and an amulet, but they never show any obvious magic. You have never seen his spellbook. The mudmen are the only guards you see around Mudlar or the mud pit.

pife

2013-04-05, 12:22 AM

Brilliant! With the prospect of excellent compensation for my efforts, I relax a bit and dive back into the "Content and trustworthy scribe" approach. With the opportunity to copy several spells, I plan to finish the book as quickly as a good job requires.

I will drop Malar as a topic with Mudlar, and keep him talking about the dao to his hearts content.

With Corvan, I absorb as much as I can, enjoying the effort as well as the conversation. I definitely make sure that I have a clear understanding of where in the mountains both the town and the orcs are. I'd also like to ask Corvan if he knows any druids.

By asking around, does this.. tribe.. village? have any enemies? Do they have any troublesome species or races nearby?

GoddessSune

2013-04-05, 10:33 PM

Corvan knows a couple druids. The couple in the area are mobile and don't have a grove or circle that he knows of. The druid circle, The Blood Pit Circle, runs, partly, the Pit of Blood. The closest non- mobile druid is the Druidess, Wandarka, a half orc, who has a grove in a canyon in the Sword Mountains.

Lotop tells you that they have almost no deals with anyone else, so don't have enemies...or friends. There are tons of bands of orcs, humans, half orcs and goblins covering the area to the north. Most are less 'tribes' and more 'groups of thugs'. They raid the town from time to time, but don't do any real damage thanks to Mudlar's mud men, and his use of the Mudslide spell.

pife

2013-04-06, 02:44 PM

to Corvan Would you like to travel with me, when I'm finished with Mudlar's book? I would like to see this Pit of Blood, and perhaps meet members of the circle that worships there.

Using what little wilderness lore I have, I would like to attempt to stock up on "trail rations" types of food, nuts, berries, roots, etc.

Knowledge: Nature- [roll0]

Survival Check- [roll1]

GoddessSune

2013-04-06, 11:15 PM

Corvan "My path is a single, solitary one. But I can guide you as far north as Ironhole, as I'm going there anyway."

You can gather up plenty of ration ingredients. Several women are more then happy to make you some hardtack in exchange for spellcasting(like predestination to clean laundry).

Trail Ration:A standard "trail ration" kit consists of:

8 oz of Hard Tack (about 836 calories)
3 oz of Beef Jerky (about 300 calories)
5 oz of "Trail Mix" consisting of various nuts and dried/candied fruits (about 655 calories)

The total weight of these items is 16 oz, or 1 lb. The hardtack and jerky are stored in prepared cloths which are kept in a waterproofed pouch along with the "trail mix". One day's worth of rations provides about 1800 calories, which is enough to keep a character from starving but does not satisfy a PCs nutritional needs for extended periods of time. If a character subsists on trail rations for more than 3-5 days he may have to make Endurance checks, the failure of which imposes certain penalties (at the DMs discretion).

The caloric values are based on modern day recreations of older recipes, but appear to be fairly sound.

Note that the jerky is not what you'd buy at the supermarket, which is cooked and designed to be fairly moist. The jerky included here is not cooked, but salted and thoroughly dried. It is NOT pleasant (though it is possible) to eat this jerky without reconstituting it in boiling water, with the added bonus of having a thin gravy with which to soften the hard tack. A vessel (such as an iron cooking pot) would be an ideal accompaniment to your gear for this purpose.

pife

2013-04-07, 11:06 AM

to Corvan I'll be pleased to have your company that far then, clapping him on the shoulder.

I look/ask around for an iron pot here in the village. As well as prestidigitation, I ensure that I study a mending spell or two, and offer to fix anything that I see that is broken.

With Mudlar, I continue to exert my best efforts. I'm trying to wrap this up as thoroughly (and quickly) as i can. I feel that the world is looking up, as I have found acceptance and profit here in the village, and lo, what odds to find someone who can lead me directly to a holy site of Malar and the circle that protects it, especially in this little village. Perhaps the world is aligning itself to me for a time!

Yes, Anaglan has delusions of grandeur, lol. And while deep down, he knows that he's currently a pathetic predator, he strives to improve. But a predator must learn how to hunt, and be cautious in the learning. At least, that's what he's telling himself.

I work with Nicodemus sometimes, learning methods of using him as a scout. (I will eventually be getting around to putting points in Handle Animal, and this is the precursor to teaching him specific tricks).

I prepare for my departure. I attempt to pay attention to the weather, and keep clearly in mind any dangers or obstacles that Corvan mentions in the terrain leading to Ironhole.

GoddessSune

2013-04-08, 12:23 AM

You don't find an iron pot anywhere. You can find a wood, clay or bone pot. In fact, there is almost no metal to be found in the whole village.

You spend a little over a month with Muldar, writing his book. Eventually you get to transcribe some of his spells.

You can add the following spells to you spell book(Mudlar covers the costs)
Spells
Dirt Ward
Abjuration [Earth/Stone]
Level: Bard 0, Cleric 0, Druid 0, Ranger 1, Sorcerer 0, Wizard 0
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 minute
Range: Touch
Target: Creature or object touched
Duration: 1 hour
Saving Throw: Will negates (harmless)
Spell Resistance: Yes (harmless)

This simple cantrip or orison is used often to keep people or items tidy, and it affects one touched creature or object with each casting. The effect lasts for 1 hour, and if the target is a creature, it also affects any items they wear and any items they hold, but only items which are overall smaller individually than the creature (not by size category, but by actual dimensions and the space taken up). The subject or subjects of this spell do not gather dust or other particles, while mud, sand, dirt, soil, dust, and other such particles or substances will slough off the subject or subjects without sticking. Thus, the subject or subjects cannot get dirty, nor soaked by mud, but Dirt Ward does not prevent actual liquids or oozes from soaking or sticking to the recipients of this spell. However, any oozes which are composed primarily of earthen matter (as opposed to liquid or organic matter) will slough off without sticking.
Also, Dirt Ward prevents the eyes, ears, noses, and mouthes of the subject or subjects from coming into direct contact with any particles or substances that would be warded off by this spell, such that the recipient or recipients cannot be blinded, deafened, or otherwise sensory impaired merely by exposure to dust, sand, dirt, mud, and so on, nor can they inhale or choke upon such particles or substances. Even in a terrible sandstorm, the subject can escape cleanly and without any need to wipe off or rub sand out of their clothes or off their face, though the swirling sands would still impair their vision just as normal (the character merely wouldn't get any particles in their eyes). Dirt Ward does not prevent any damage from such particles or substances, however.

Identify Mineral and Stone
Divination
Level: Brd 0, Clr (having Stone or Earth domains) 0, Drd 0, Sor/Wiz 0
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 minute
Targets: 5 pieces of mineral or 10 cu. ft. of stone
Saving Throw: None
Spell Resistance: No

This spell will correctly identify by name any of its targets (for instance, if cast on 5 gems it will reveal their type or if cast on an area of stone it will reveal the type of stone). Appraise or Stonecunning checks used up to 1 minute after this spell is cast get a +2 insight bonus.

Animate Mud
School Transmutation
Descriptor Earth
Level Drd 1, Sor/Wiz 1
components V, S, M
casting time 1 standard action
range Personal
target small pile of mud
duration Concentration up to 1 round/level(D)
saving throw None
spell resistance No

You animate mud, which must be approximately the size of a small pile of mud. The animated mud has the statistics of a Small earth elemental (MM 98), and attacks as you direct. It cannot move beyond the range of its source (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels).

Material component-a bit of mud

Mud Armor
School Transmutation
Descriptor Earth
Level Drd 1, Sor/Wiz 1
components V, S, M
casting time 1 standard action
range Personal
target small pile of mud

duration 1hour/level or until destroyed
saving throw None
spell resistance No

You create a suit of armor made of mud. While cold to the touch, it does not harm the wearer, especially if worn over normal clothing . It offers the same protection as breastplate armor, except it has hardness 0 and 30 hit points. If the intended wearer is submersed in mud when you cast this spell, you may form the armor around the wearer (who may be you); otherwise the wearer must don the armor normally. Attacks against the wearer that create heat or fire degrade the armor, reducing its Armor Class by 1 for every 5 points of fire damage the wearer takes; when the armor’s AC reaches 0, the spell ends. Because the mud is slightly buoyant, the wearer gains a +2 circumstance bonus on Swim and climb checks, when moving through mud. This armor is freely wearable by druids.

Material component-at least five gallons of mud.

Mudball
Evocation[earth]; Level sorcerer/wizard 1,Casting Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, S Effect Range close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels) Effect single fist-sized blob of sticky mud Duration instantaneous Saving Throw Reflex negates, see text; Spell Resistance no Description When you cast this spell, you make a single ball of sticky mud and launch it at an enemy’s face as a ranged touch attack. If the mudball hits, the target is blinded. Each round at the beginning of its turn, a creature blinded by this spell can attempt a Reflex saving throw to shake off the mud, ending the effect. The mudball can also be wiped off by the creature affected by it or by a creature adjacent to the creature affected by it as a standard action.

Mud Spray
School Conjuration
Descriptor Earth
Level Sor/Wiz 2
components V, S, M
casting time 1 standard action
range Close
duration Instantaneous
saving throw See text
spell resistance Yes
Grey-Brown gooey mud erupts from your outstretched finger coating your opponent, watching him wince as it hardens. On a successful ranged touch attack you coat your target with mud making it slow for 1d6 rounds(No save for this effect). The creature must also make a fort save otherwise during this time they are irritated by the loam causing them -1 to attack and all skill rolls

pife

2013-04-08, 06:54 AM

Lol.. Okay, that's just funny.. I'm still trying to decide if Anaglan is pleased or let down by the spells that he received.. I think.. surprised.. is the emotion he's going through.. (Y'know those times on Christmas or your birthday when you get a completely bizarre present that you don't know what to do with? That's kinda how Anaglan feels. If the old man wasn't so eccentric, Anaglan would feel like he was being insulted, but.. as it stands, it only makes sense if you think about it. So, ruefully, Anaglan is pleased. For little effort and no danger, Anaglan was able to add some very.. unusual spells to his repertoire, (and a couple of them are actually fairly useful).

By the way, just want to make sure I'm keeping track correctly.. Do I still receive 15 gp in addition, or did I surrender that money for the spells?

Goodbyes

After spending my last couple of days in the village making sure that all was in readiness, and ensuring that Covan (Corvan? I've seen it spelled both ways) is prepared to lead me to Ironhole.

As you might expect, I am very respectful of Mudlar, grateful and thankful for the opportunity to work with him. I tell him to send for me if he ever has need of me.

I will give Lotop two gold pieces, and the best sketch that I've been able to put together so far. He treated me well, better than he needed to.

Is 10 days of trail rations reasonable to have been foraged?

Other than that, after I've transribed the spells into my book (I will update my character sheet this evening, can't get to myth-weavers from work), I am just getting ready for departure with Covan.

GoddessSune

2013-04-09, 12:41 PM

You get 15 gold.

Corvan is ready when you are.

Mudlar is a bit sad to see you go, but is very happy with his tome.

Lotop than ks you for the gold and drawing.

You can gather ten days of rations.

pife

2013-04-09, 01:57 PM

Excellent..

After saying farewell to all those I had met, I'm ready to take the trail.

By the way, Corvan, how dangerous is this journey to Ironhole? Should we expect trouble along the way?

Did I ever see any other visitors pass through the "town", or were we completely isolated the whole time?

And with that, we're on the way to Ironhole..

GoddessSune

2013-04-09, 03:41 PM

While not exactly ''isolated'', no one comes through town that you can see.

Corvan says: "Well, there is really no where to go. There are a couple small villages like this around. Plenty of orcs and trolls. And no real reason to travel. Each village just barley makes what it needs to survive. They have nothing to trade, but then most other villages have nothing to trade for too.

Mudlar's Pit, is one of the more lucky villages. They have Mudlar. He keeps the village safe. Lots of other villages don't have a Mudlar. They just get wiped out by the orcs or whatevers. Villages come and go, some not even making it a season.

Corvan"Our journey north is very dangerous. The Sword Mountains is the most deadly and dangerous place I know of in the world. Tons of orcs, too many goblins, trolls, dragons and all sorts of people eating monsters. You will need to be on your guard at all times."

pife

2013-04-09, 04:01 PM

Then we'll have to keep a sharp eye out for one another.. By the way, the day before I ran into your village, I came across a hut in the woods that was being used as a nest for at least one owlbear I attempt to describe where that was. Do you know who lived there or what happened to them?

As we travel, I will regularly send Nicodemus out looking for anything noteworthy (especially any intelligent life or major predators). And I will happily do "my share" of the work, whether that's keeping watch, preparing food (badly), gathering firewood, etc. I'm really going all out to immerse myself in this "outdoorsyness", and I keep Corvan talking as much as possible.

Just out of curiosity, do I have any kind of sensation about what Corvan "does" for a living? (i.e. is he more likely to be a commoner, a warrior, a fighter or a ranger, or do I have no idea)?

Taking Corvan's advice on the route, I will attempt to make good time in getting to Ironhole.

GoddessSune

2013-04-09, 07:30 PM

Corvan "The lands are full of such places. Anything could have happened to whoever built it. There is much death todays"

Well, Lotrop did tell you Corvan was a ranger a couple posts ago.

As you move northward, the woods start to thin out. By noon you are no longer in the woods, but in green rolling hills. Corvan takes a path through the tall grasses.

Nicodemus comes over to tell you that he has spotted orcs up ahead, just after three in the afternoon. Nicodemus says there are only five of them, but he is not sure what they are doing...other then just standing around and looking.

pife

2013-04-10, 06:49 AM

to Corvan Corvan, Nicodemus tells me that there are five orcs ahead. I'm not sure what they're doing, or even if they're alone. Should we move closer and take a look? I should be able to take at least a couple down by putting them to sleep if it comes to fighting.

But I'd rather know what we're dealing with before we go around and leave something dangerous behind us.

GoddessSune

2013-04-10, 11:10 PM

Corvan nods. "Just five. Blood Grass Tribe. They control most of this land. They are mostly harmless. Five is not enough for a raiding party or much of any trouble. We should just avoid them, they won't bother us. You can 't kill every orc. That is one of the big problems we humans have. We need to pick our targets better. We should save our strength, we will encounter Dark Tusks any time now....and they will mindlessly attack us."

pife

2013-04-11, 06:35 AM

I nod at Corvan's unexpected wisdom. Yes, definitely.. Did a predator not always assess it's target before striking.

We will go around, as you say. In Elven, to Nicodemus- Please make sure we're not surprised, my friend. We go around them.

Nonetheless, I load my crossbow and rummage through my spell component pouch, making sure everything is where I think it is.

to Corvan-Do you speak their tongue, Corvan?

GoddessSune

2013-04-11, 04:43 PM

Corvan "Yes, I speak orcish. These are orc lands, more or less. It's a good idea to speak the tongue of the land you are in"

Corvan leads you across the grassy hills. You never see any orcs. You do see plenty orc marks. Corvan points out the boot prints("crudely made, see the irregular shape. See the tiny lines that is from the matted fur'' weapon marks "the round holes are spears stuck in the ground as they stand" and trash "they just drop as the walk, see the nut shells"

By just before sunset, Corvan heads over to a rocky overhang with boulders on each side.

"I'm going to start a cook fire. It will attract any orc within miles. So once the food is on the fire, be ready.

pife

2013-04-12, 11:48 AM

I bite back a retort about predators using stalking and surprise, but cooperate fully. This is something I need to see, need to learn as well.. I look around our position for methods and locations for hiding/ambushing.

to Nicodemus- To the sky with you, my friend, and warn me of anything that approaches, down the size of a badger.

to Corvan- Are we trying to invite them in for tea, or are you setting an ambush? Shall I find a place to lie in wait?

GoddessSune

2013-04-13, 12:58 AM

Corvan "A little of both. I'm sure there is at least one orc band with in sight of this fire. They might be already stalking us, or they might just come across us in the next couple hours. In any case it will be dark soon as the sun goes down. Orcs can see in the dark. I can't. And unless you have elfsight, you can't either. So I want to deal with any nearby orcs while we still have daylight. And a cooking fire is a great way to send the message we are too dumb to live and have started a fire that can be seen for miles in hostile lands please come over and kill us.

Corvan adjusts his bandoleer and swings his sling around a couple times.

"Chances are they will be Dark Tusk orcs. You can tell as they will have their tusks dyed black or gray. They like big rush in attacks, where they yell and scream to try to frighten and intimidate foes. They will be in blood rages, it makes them strong but clumsy. They can only hold the rage for maybe a minute, and they want to kill while enraged. So expect them to be reckless.

We won't need to kill them all. At least not at first. If you can take them out of the fight, they will retreat in shame."

pife

2013-04-15, 09:16 AM

Oh my gosh, I had already responded to this, a few days ago, but I guess when I hit submit, it didn't go.. My apologies! I thought I was waiting for you!

I send Nicodemus into the sky to scout (making sure to warn him to stay out of bow range).

I look around for a good spot to lay an ambush, and will have the material components for my sleep spell prepared and in hand. My crossbow is now loaded, and I will attempt to find a hiding spot which give me the best field of vision around the campfire while keeping me hidden from casual view.

to Corvan- I will be calling on my powers to put several of them to sleep if there are more than one. After that, it's the crossbow.

Taking 20 and finding a good hiding spot if possible. Otherwise..
[roll0]
(I can't pull up my character sheet through my companies firewall. I have my wife getting back to me on the hide modifier (I think it's -1, but want to be certain.. I will edit in the correct modifier.

*Edit*.. Well, guess it won't matter much.. Hope I get to take 20, lol.. For the record, my Hide modifier is -1, as I thought, making my total "4".

GoddessSune

2013-04-15, 04:30 PM

You can take 20 to Hide because there is no penalty for failure (really, there isn't ... a low roll means you're setting a low DC for people to Spot you, and while the result of your opposed roll may be bad, the roll itself is not a success or failure).

You find a nice thick bush that you can hide in. So +4 to AC.

Corvan climbs up a foot or so on top of a large rock and squats down.

It's only a couple minutes later when Nicodemus flies over head to say ''orcs to the north!''

You can make your first check to see the orcs when they are 300 feet away (Spot check at -20), 200 feet away(Check -15) and 100 feet away (Check -10) When you make a check, you may attack. Unless you would like to wait.

pife

2013-04-15, 04:37 PM

I'm going to begin readying an action to cast Sleep. If I'm seen, or if a fight breaks out, I'm casting sleep on the largest concentration of enemies I can, while ensuring that Corvan stays out of the AOE.

I will continue to hold that action until either one of the two above mentioned events occur, or until I change my action.

Spot Checks
300' [roll0]
200' [roll1]
100' [roll2]

and if I'm still totally blind when they reach us..
[roll3]

GoddessSune

2013-04-15, 05:08 PM

At 100 feet you can take 10, to notice the group of a dozen black tusked orcs running towards the fire. So you would notice the orcs then.

Corvan gets off a couple shots with his sling, but you don't see if he hits anything.

pife

2013-04-15, 07:00 PM

From my hidden position, I would like to;

Cast Sleep on the largest knot of orcs, range 110', DC 13 Will to resist

If they are still far enough away to do so, I will fire my crossbow at any that look larger than the others.

If there is time anywhere in this (or if you're okay with this being part of my preparation, I would like to have retrieved two (2) of my flasks of oil. (this is assuming I'm within easy range of the fire, of course). The flasks will be open, but propped in an upright position. (These will just be a diversion, if I get to use them).

Attack Roll for crossbow (if I get to use it before melee begins)
[roll0]
Damage roll [roll1]

If (unlikely, but hey, Tymora smiles sometimes), I can remain hidden after casting my spell and/or firing my crossbow, I do so. And if I can retain the +4 AC due to Cover, I would like to stay where I am for the time being.

GoddessSune

2013-04-15, 08:13 PM

You can target the first four orcs at 110 feet...

Orc 1: [roll0]
Orc 2: [roll1] Orc 3: [roll2] Orc 4: [roll3]

Sigh...4,13,8,4. So three orcs fall asleep.

You can remain hidden perfectly well after casting sleep, as it has no visual manifestation. You can have your oil ready.

After the sleep spell and the sling stones, the orcs slow to a double move. This has them take a round to move 80 feet. So that puts them 30 feet away when you can act again.....and miss with your crossbow.

Corvan shoots his sling: [roll4] [roll5] 8 and 8....he hits an orc right in the head and kills it.

With the orcs now in melee range, initiative can be rolled:

Orcs[roll6]
Corvan [roll7]

Orcs rolled 10, Corvan rolled 12

pife

2013-04-15, 08:51 PM

Initiative and attack rolls
[roll0]

Reload, and fire my crossbow at the largest one that is not engaged with Corvan, if any. [roll1]
Damage [roll2]

Lol, so helpless..

GoddessSune

2013-04-16, 11:09 AM

Round 1

Corvan jumps off his rock, making a leaping charge with a huge yell, swinging his staff....

Attack-[roll0] [roll1] Damage-[roll2]

Corvan swings his staff around in a wild double arc, smashing two orcs in the head, and sending both orcs to the ground with smashed skulls.

Three orcs attempt to attack Corvan wildly charging [roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]

The orcs stumble but don't hit Corvan.

Two orcs attempt to see where the bolts are coming from....[roll6] [roll7]
If they notice: [roll8] [roll9] If they hit [roll10] [roll11]

One orc spots you in the bush and moves over to strike with his massive club....however, the woody bush blocks his blow from hitting you with any effect.

Anaglan Action:As your going last, and would be in melee with an orc, do you want to keep your ''shoot a crossbow bolt'' or take another action?

pife

2013-04-16, 11:27 AM

Relative to the fire, where are the orcs? If I can see an opportunity to frighten a number of them (I doubt my oil flask will do anything extreme enough to actually hurt them), I would like to toss one of the opened flasks into the fire

Am I currently "threatened" by the orc, or does the bush protect me from his attacks in his current location? If I am threatened, I will cast Daze defensively at the orc in front of me [roll0] (target DC is 16). DC 12 to resist.

If I am not currently threatened, I will reload and fire my crossbow at the orc who saw me. [roll1] Damage [roll2]

Lol, wow.. Okay, so if I am threatened, I'm screwed, lol.. (and lost my Daze spell) And if I'm not threatened, I just missed.

GoddessSune

2013-04-16, 11:43 AM

The orcs are scattered about, but the one that did not spot you is on;y a couple of steps from the fire, and two more are behind him. Corvan is fighting his orcs well off to the side.

You are threatened by the orc, who gets to make his AoO swing, but you still get your cover from the bush(and the orc still has his charge/reckless charge penalties too) as it is still round 1.

Orc swings! [roll] [7} Club [roll1]

The orc's swing is again blocked by the bush.

pife

2013-04-16, 11:57 AM

Feeling braver than I should, but still making sure to keep as much bush as possible between the orc and I, I will snatch up one of my oil flasks and toss it to the ground near the orc's feet (letting the oil leak out in preparation for my next action) while fighting defensively, and screaming at the orc in Elven

You think you scare me, you leather-skinned child-gutting whoreson?!?! If you smell this bad now, I can't wait to smell you cooked!! Die, tusker!

GoddessSune

2013-04-16, 07:29 PM

Round 2

Corvan and the orcs fight...offstage:smallyuk:

Your big, ugly orc....drops his club and uses his destructive rage to attack...the bush. Doing 22 points of damage, he rips into the bush with his hands and tusks and reduces it to little more then bits of wood and leaves. This destroys your cover and leaves the path to you clear....

Anaglan Round 2Action:

pife

2013-04-16, 08:59 PM

I take a 5' step back, and cast Charm Person on the orc. Will DC 13 to resist.

GoddessSune

2013-04-16, 09:21 PM

Orc Will Save: [roll0]

The orc just looks at you and smiles, showing off all of his black tusks, as your spell has no effect on him.

GoddessSune

2013-04-16, 09:46 PM

Round 3 Corvan whirls his staff around and smashes at least two more orcs. The orcs strike back, but only one of them hits Corvan with a glancing blow with his club.

The orc by you takes a move to pick up his club, and then makes a wild swing at you. Attack[ 8]

The orcs club misses, but only by an inch or so....

Anaglan's round three action:

pife

2013-04-17, 08:56 AM

Haha, you're being very generous, lol. By my count, this is the third "extra life" you've given Anaglan. So, thank you!

I know that I can't trade blows with him, and that club is getting too close to my head.

I withdraw, moving as best I can (up to a double move) to get next to Corvan without entering any other threatened areas. My goal is to, starting next round, use Aid another, and hope that the orcs realize that he's the bigger threat and go after him..

GoddessSune

2013-04-17, 08:09 PM

Extra life? What? whistles

Corvan is just over 40 feet away, and there is just the two orcs between the two of you. So with your withdraw double move, you can make it over next to him.

Corvan stands in the middle of a circle of five dead orcs, each with smashed skulls. Corvan is fighting three orcs, though at the end of round 3 he is not in melee with any orcs....the three orcs he is facing are 15 feet away. This puts a total of five orcs in the immediate area that you can see....the three on one side, and the two on the other.

Round 4 Corvan charges an orc!(one of the three)[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3]

Corvan misses twice! The orcs attack!

GoddessSune

2013-04-17, 08:22 PM

Round 4 cont. the three orcs attack!

orc 1 [roll0] [roll1]
orc 2 [roll2] [roll3]
orc 3 [roll4] [roll5]

Corvan takes a good solid it across his chest and staggers a bit.
The other two orcs meet up and move to within 15 feet of the fight (that puts them 'next' to you, ten feet away), but they just stand and watch.

Your action......

pife

2013-04-17, 08:30 PM

With my eyes lowered to slits, I quickly reload my crossbow, and ready an action to plant a bolt in the first to make a threatening motion, while keeping an eye on Corvan. If he appears to take a turn for the worse, I will support him.

Much more confidently than I feel.. Can you make proper words?

GoddessSune

2013-04-17, 08:50 PM

Who are you speaking too? Orc #4 the destroyier of bushes? Are you speaking in elven? Common?

pife

2013-04-17, 09:08 PM

Who are you speaking too? Orc #4 the destroyier of bushes? Are you speaking in elven? Common?

in Common to the Bushmaster!

GoddessSune

2013-04-18, 03:54 PM

Bushbreaker orc just looks at you, and drools a bit "Haho 'u nhahgakk nu ro says the orc

pife

2013-04-18, 04:00 PM

You know what.. You're absolutely right!

And I pull the trigger. Corvan fights, and I cower with my crossbow? It cannot be!!! I'll not shame myself in front of Corvan and Malar!!

[roll0]

Did I say "pull the trigger"?

I meant "Wow, you're bigger!"

Uh oh.

GoddessSune

2013-04-18, 08:43 PM

Your crossbow blot flies off to the side...not coming close to hitting the orc, or anything else.

Round 5

Corvan attacks
[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3]

Corvan hits and kills and orc!

Orc attacks on Corvan [roll4][roll5] [roll6] [roll7]

The other two orcs miss Corvan...

Orc attack on Anaglan!
[roll8] [roll9]

Bushy Orc swings his club right at your head....and the last thing you see if the club right before it hits your head.

With 12! points of damage, you go down to -6 making you ''mostly dead'', but not quite dead yet......

GoddessSune

2013-04-18, 09:01 PM

pife

2013-04-19, 10:24 AM

, you go down to -6 making you ''mostly dead'', but not quite dead yet

Mostly dead is "partly alive"!!

pife

2013-04-19, 10:27 AM

You wake up....sometime later...somewhere else.

It's a cave, and your on a flat stone. A couple dozen fires burn along the walls. A couple of male orcs are around, but right next to you is a female orc. She is holding her hands on your head and looking at you....

I try to control my breathing, and remain calm. Focus, I tell myself. What do I know? Am I clothed? How badly am I injured? Am I tied up? Do I still feel my connection with Nicodemus? Is there any recognizable symbols or indication of what this situation is? Do I see any sign of Corvan?

GoddessSune

2013-04-19, 05:58 PM

You are clothed in your same clothing. You don't seem to be injured at all. You are not tied up. You still feel the connection with Nicodemus, but he is nowhere in sight. You see no sign of Corvan.

"Awake? Good" says the orc female in perfect elvish. "You need food or water?"

pife

2013-04-19, 08:39 PM

Water, please. I attempt to sit up, and the first thing I want to check for is the tusks of the orcs in the room. Does this appear to be the same tribe as those who attacked us? May I ask where I am, how I came to be here, and what has become of my friend Corvan?

GoddessSune

2013-04-19, 09:56 PM

The female orc, and the other male orcs nearby, all have white(and some yellow) tusks. Defiantly not the dyed black tusks of the orcs that attacked you.

The female orc hands you a waterskin, full of water.

"You are in my home cave, in the place we call Tovokkil. My brothers dragged your mostly dead body here. I used my dark arts to fan your life fire and make you come back. You were close to gone. I do not know the word core-van."

You feel a bit sore, but you can sit up.

pife

2013-04-19, 10:02 PM

Anything I might happen to know or have read about orcish customs is useful. Basically, my onbly hope is that I don't say/do something terribly insulting to them

Then it seems that I have a lot to thank you for. I am Anaglan. I thank you, and your brothers for their aid. I don't know how I can repay you.

I take another drink of water while looking around. Do I see my backpack or crossbow in the room?

Corvan is my friend, a ranger that was assisting me when the others attacked. He was still fighting when I took a blow to the head.

GoddessSune

2013-04-19, 11:44 PM

"I am called Pribuna of the Dark Scars. And I know how you can repay me. It why I got you. I need to know more about magic. I had a vision, I saw you, and saw you know magic. I still know nothing about a cor-van person." says Pribuna in elven.

The cave your in is full of items on the walls and in piles on the floor. You don't see anything that looks like it is yours.

Orcish society has always been characterized by hardy and rugged living. As a result they are staunch pragmatists, and are never shy of killing when it will protect the future of the orc or his clan. All orcs regardless of gender or station are expected to pull their own weight, and weakness is considered a grave liability. The weakness of one contaminates the strength of all, and it is punishable by the greatest humiliation an orc can receive: exile. Different orc clans however have different personalities

pife

2013-04-20, 01:01 AM

Yes, it is true, I know some small amount of magic. Truly, I am a beginning student, with only a few spells known. What would you know of it? So.. I suppose you either consider me a teacher, or a prisoner. I wish to know which it is.

GoddessSune

2013-04-20, 06:23 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars "Yes! Teacher-prisoner. There is no elf word for the orc word. I know you know magic and can help me, it was all in my vision."

See moves over to a small pile of small sacks and looks through them until she pulls out a bone scroll case with a scroll inside.

"Can you read this?" she says as she gives you the scroll case and scroll.

pife

2013-04-20, 09:06 PM

First, holding up one finger.. I would need my spellbook and components in order to teach you anything. Second, holding up a second finger, I'll not do anything until I know where my friend is. Third, and most imporant, holding up a third finger, If you think to hold me prisoner, and have me teach you the ancient and elegant art of magic, you might as well kill me now, for as a prisoner, I can only be an enemy. And.. grinning ferally, I never help my enemies.

I push the bone case away from me, without taking it from her hand.

GoddessSune

2013-04-20, 09:29 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars "Me gots your book and stuffs. I don't know nothing about a friend. And elf words are not like good orc words. I needs magic. You got magic. You can teach me magic. If me not have you stay, you would go. So must make you stay. You help, me let go. Orc law.

pife

2013-04-21, 12:37 AM

Didn't you realize that it's the race of the teacher that determines the laws? In this case, human law allows that I will agree to attempt to teach you the little magic I know. This is in thanks for you saving my life. However, I am a guest, not a prisoner. I will teach you for three hours each day until you know enough to continue. The rest of the day is mine to do as I please. I'll require food, water, and a clean, dry place to sleep. Oh, and torches, or oil. You may be able to see in the dark, but I need at least some light.

You see? You learn magic, and I also agree to use my magic to mend things that are broken. This is better, yes?

Diplomacy check to convince them that I am not a prisoner.
[roll0]

GoddessSune

2013-04-21, 07:01 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars nods, "You not a prisoner, you bound servant. Your sleep cave in the one behind you." She points to the cave opening behind you.

"This is the main cave, where we are now. We keep it bright. Lots of fire and light. You can use all the torches and fire stuff you want.

Three hours a day for magic sounds good. Me just need to learn fast."

Pribuna brings over a sack and opens it, to reveal your spellbook and equipment inside....but none of your weapons.

pife

2013-04-21, 08:43 PM

Good. We're making progress. I'm still not sure about this "bound servant" thing, though. But I'll need a dagger to cut up some of my components. Look at me. I'm no threat to you with a knife. Some of your children could likely best me in a wrestling contest.

Now, in order for me to help you, I'll need to understand why you feel you need to learn magic, and especially, why do you need to learn quickly?

In my time with the orcs, I plan to do my best to learn orc. Kind of a deep-immersion kind of thing. If nothing else, I should be able to recognize and use simple words and convey ideas, if I stay for any length of time. I am also going to keep my eyes open. Information, equipment, patterns, etc. Regardless of what they say, I consider myself a tutor, not a prisoner. (we'll see if they lock or chain me up).

I'm not certain if she is aware of it, but I'm planning to really 'sell" the idea of having a familiar, and the advantages for her. Hopefully I can get her really excited about it. And to that end, I need to find Nicodemus. That's my highest priority after my immediate personal safety. Finding Corvan would be nice, but I'm in a predicament right now, and he can't help me, nor me him.

And finally, I would like to do my best to scrounge up the materials to write scrolls. (in my free time from teaching, i would like to commit as many spells to scrolls as I can. If there are materials that are not present, I will inform the orcs that Pribuna is going to need significant supplies (paper, ink, material components, preferably a book, quills, etc) in order to teach her (and some for myself of course). The next time I get into a fight, I want to have just a little bit more firepower at my disposal..

GoddessSune

2013-04-21, 11:29 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars nods and walks over to one of the other orcs. They speak in orc for a couple minutes, and then he hands her a dagger. She then walks over and hands the dagger to you.

"I am a Cave Mother of Luthic. I have divine power from her, but no arcane might. My tribe, the Dark Scars, we have demon blood. So Cumhepninon, the demon lord, will take me on as a vassal. But he only takes ones that know the arcane. He has much arcane knowledge, but can only share it with ones that know about arcane power. But there is another Cave Mother, Akgambla, who wants the spot too. So it is a race, the one of us that gets arcane magic gets the spot."

pife

2013-04-22, 06:55 AM

Well then, we shall have to beat her to the finish, eh?

(I don't really associate myself with any "race", and so couldn't care less if orcs with demon blood are learning arcane magic. If it keeps me alive, and potentially earns me an ally in the process, I'm good with it).

I would imagine that my master gave me certain tests to check my aptitudes when determining whether I could be taught. I would like to start by checking Pribuna's aptitude. CAN she learn arcane magic? (By the way, I don't intend to teach her Charm Person if I can avoid it at all, too easy to use against me. If forced, I will teach it to her slightly incorrectly, so that it doesn't work properly. And I will be certain that I have it studied each day, in case I need to use it to provide an escape..

But, it looks like I'm teaching Pribuna arcane magic. (Regardless of what "they" think, I plan to leave and be done as soon as I've taught her enough to go forward with. It's not like I'm an expert myself, lol. But, luckily, I don't have to keep her busy with "apprentice busy-work". I will throw myself into the teaching, a) because she's in a hurry, b) because I want out of here, and c) I want to make myself respected and valuable.

I will treat this is though I've been "adopted" into a "pack". For now, this orc tribe is my pack, and I will, like any pack animal, work for the greater good of the community. This means that I will help out where I can, above and beyond merely teaching her magic. I will use mending to fix small items. I will use prestidigitation to amuse them. I will suggest improvements to their environment as I can. And again, I will be trying very hard to teach myself orc.

I learn what I can about the Dark Scar orcs. (Any semi-attractive/intriguing half-orc females, lol? What better way to assimilate and be accepted than to take a "native" for a lover?

Can I find Nicodemus? If I can, I make sure to have it explained that he is VERY special to me, and is not to be tormented or eaten. (And I start enticing Pribuna with the advantages of having a familiar).

I do NOT plan to teach Pribuna how to scribe scrolls at the moment, though I could change my mind about that.

So far my captors have been very accomodating, far more than I could have expected. I realize that I'm in a better position than I could have been, and I want to make sure that I reap the best benefits. So, I will not antagonize any of them. I've been able to obtain several dispensations, and I realize I could be getting treated much worse.

What is Pribuna's (and the Dark Scars) relationship with Malar, if any?

I continue sketching, though most of my "muses" are orcs at this time. I focus on the most impressive. I also continue praying to Malar for guidance. My path has been very odd since I left home. Perhaps this is all part of his "plan" for me.

pife

2013-04-29, 05:00 AM

Hey there! Just checking in after the "drought". I figure it will take quite a while for everyone to check back in, but wanted to let you know that I'm ready when you are.

GoddessSune

2013-04-29, 02:22 PM

Almost anyone with enough intelligence can learn how to use magic, it's just about studding after all. A lot of it is mental, like memorization. Pribuna can learn magic. It's lots of work learning magic, so you have no problem having her memorize paragraphs of text or drawing a symbol for hours.

It's impossible to teach her how to be a wizard without teaching her how to scribe a scroll. It's a class feature after all. And an apprentice does need to make their first spellbook. And teaching her to scribe scrolls is a way for her to bring over a good pile of books, paper, ink, quills and such. And while she is practicing her writing, you can scribe your own scrolls. (kinda a win, win to teach her scribe scroll).

You can teach her any spell you know. She can't read your spellbook, so has no idea what you have. So you need not teach her charm person (but you can teach her mud spells...)

Pribuna is the only female orc in the connected caves. She is at least semi-attractive.....

None of the orcs in the caves speak anything except orc. And Pribuna, in fact only speaks orc. But she does show you her necklace made of ears from orcs, elves, humans, ect that lets her hear and speak any language.

The caves are an interconnected groups of caves. Most are pitch dark, except for the one side cave where 'class' is held, and your sleeping cave nook. Your free to wander, except into other orcs sleeping caves. There is only one entrance/exit, a long tunnel that goes straight up from the cave ceiling. The orcs have no problem climbing up and down, but it is dark so you can't see how high it goes.

Pribuna is aware of the ''wizard pet'' idea. And she plans to have one, she hopes for a rat. She readily tells you about an annoying bird that has been hanging around just outside the cave sense you were brought here.

Pribuna is a cleric of Luthic, an orc goddess. The orcs in the caves only follow orc gods. She has heard of the god Malar, but does not know anything about him.

Good to be back!

pife

2013-04-29, 03:02 PM

I make a mental note of the necklace Pribuna carries. Not making any plans about doing anything shifty at the moment, this is good experience, and the potential to gain allies. But I am making contingency plans for any possibility I can think of. (examples include seducing Pribuna, sneaking away with or without "presents", subverting one/some with Charm Person, all the way up to and including taking over the tribe and forging them into an elite strike force (and somehow introducing Malar to them in the process) who raid at my command) Yes, I have a wild imagination, lol.

I immediately inform them that the bird is mine, and go to find him on the instant. (I also realize that I cannot say anything in elvish to Nicodemus without it potentially being overheard by Pribuna, so I instruct him to be careful what he says when I have a moment of privacy with him. I will ask him to make a wide circuit of the area around, looking for towns, cities, traderoutes, etc. I want to know what's in the geographical area. I also ask him to try to note any major cave formations or signs of obvious large-scale inhabitation. (I realize this is going to be complicated for him, but I'll patiently explain what I'm looking for. but it essentially boils down to.. Find people and the places they live. Take your time, be careful, and remember where things are. ) I fully expect that this will take him several days at least.

Since Pribuna is the only female I've encountered, I can't really observe others to learn of orc "courtship" rituals, such as they are, but I'll pay attention to their interactions with each other, and infer from context. I do apply myself studiously to learn orcish and whatever knowledge i'm able to overhear, such as tribal politics, customs, etc. And I will teach her any spell I have save Charm Person. However, as one of my many contingencies, if she surprises me and asks after those pages specifically, I will smoothly proceed to teach her, claiming that it had always been my intention.

Free time (such as it is) is dedicated to sketching, scribing (if you let me know how much time I can reasonably spend on this, I'll determine which spells I have prepared on scrolls), socializing and attempting a deep-immersion crash course on orcish. From Nicodemus' instructions, I hope to sketch a map of the area. If avenues exist for me to become a "tribe member" I veer toward them.

I engage Pribuna in a bizarre conversation.. Specifically, during normal conversation, probably a grounding in basic anthropology/anatomy, especially as it pertains to gathering material components, I will engage her in a discussion on the relative attractiveness/compatibility of different races, to feel out her natural inclinations/prejudices, etc. So, Pribuna.. What is it that an orc, male or female, looks for in companionship?

Questions I have for Pribuna (or any who can/will answer).
1. Who leads this "tribe"? Are they in good standing with other groups?
2. What is Pribuna's desired position/situation in the near term? (the next year)
3. What are the tribes local enemies? Is the tribe actively at war with anyone?
4. Where are the nearest towns/villages/habitations, and who are the inhabitants?
5. Are the tribes fortunes on the wax, or wane, and why?
6. What are the absolute high and low fortune that I, as an outsider, could possibly hope to achieve in this tribe?
7. (this one is rhetorical, a question I'm trying to answer for myself.). Can consorting with Pribuna in an.. ahem.. romantic sense.. gain me anything at all, tangible or intangible?

GoddessSune

2013-04-29, 04:51 PM

Pribuna is family to all the orcs in the cave, so she does not court any of them.

The tunnel out is vertical and 100 feet up. (That would be a climb check of 15 to climb up....if you think you can make it.) Otherwise Pribuna offers to take a cage up and bring Nicodemus down to you. Nicodemus is happy to see you and was very worried. He followed as best as he could, but could not get into the cave (as he can't see in the dark).

The other orcs mostly ignore you, as you can't really communicate with them. Pribuna is talkative enough, and often talks over dinner.

Apprenticeship takes years, of course. But as Pribuna is a cleric, she is already familiar with magic use and things like components and gestures. It takes a good three months to get Pribuna to ''1st level wizard''. (So 90 days)

1. Margulg is the leader of the Dark Scar tribe. Few orc tribes are on ''good'' anything with each other.
2.She wishes to be vassal to Cumhepninon, a local demon lord.
3.Orcs are actively at war with everyone, always.
4.Ironhole is a couple days travel to the west. She can name dozens of orc, goblin, troll and such tribes...but they are all mostly mobile. The Dark Scars are an 'in place' tribe, however, and they call the 'group of caves' Vukgilug(cavehome).
5.Wax, she hopes. The alliance with the demon will bring great prestige and power.
6.There is no real limit. Anyone can be anything, if they are strong enough.
7. .........

pife

2013-04-29, 05:57 PM

Okay, we're going to shelve any romantic notions, for now. (whew).

Okay, assuming I understand scribing scrolls correctly, for a 1st level spell cast at 1st level, the base price is 25 gp, requiring 12.5 gp worth of raw materials, and 1XP each. Also assuming that we can have the other orcs scouring the surrounding area for appropriate raw materials (might have to go all MacGyver on some stuff, lol)

If possible, I would like to have created the following scrolls-

Charm Person x 2
Mage Armor x 5
Sleep x 5
Shocking Grasp x 5
Identify x 2 (if I can find pearls, but I doubt it)

As a surprise to Pribuna, I would like to have created her a scroll with
Shocking Grasp
Mage Armor
Sleep

That would be a total of 20xp, and a total of 250 gp worth of materials (I only have 24 actual gp, but I doubt we're shopping in stores, so let me know what's reasonable.

Nicodemus, I missed you too, silly bird. Did you see what happened to Corvan? How far from where that battle took place are we?

As Pribuna's skill increases, do I get the sensation that they will let me go when she is proficient? Am I introduced to Margulg, and if not, what is the reason given?

So, Pribuna. You are almost ready to become Cumhepninon's vassal. You must be so proud! What else can I do for the Dark Scars tribe to help it grow powerful? Know that you will always be able to call on my for aid if you have need of me. How can we make you more valuable to the tribe?

Once I have taught Pribuna the basics of scroll-scribing, I will ask her if she will scribe me a scroll that heals wounds (CLW). I cannot use it myself, but it could be an important item to have at some point in the future.

I have continued to make my prayers to Malar. I discover the excitement involved in trying to learn to stalk prey in the dark. (I also discover a lot of bruised shins and scraped knees, I'm sure). I even make an attempt to "commune" with Malar by getting ripping drunk on anything the orcs have, and trying to meditate in a dark cave.

How much can I communicate with the orcs after spending the 90 days? (I currently speak Common, Elvish, and Illuskan. I'm assuming that the regional tongue counts as an "extra" tongue, which gets me up to my normal Int bonus limit of +2, but let me know if I'm mistaken). Do I catch any words or phrases that tell me that I'm either well liked/respected, considered a meal that hasn't finished tenderizing yet, or considered an enemy whose death sentence is postponed until I'm done teaching?

Does Cumhepninon know I'm here, and what does that mean if he does?

GoddessSune

2013-04-29, 08:15 PM

It is not hard to find pearls at all, after all your not all that far from the Sword Coast. The teaching cave is full of loot that Pribuna is willing to sell/trade. The other orcs are more then happy to trade for your mending services, so you get your needed 'cash' that way.

Nicodemus "Last I saw of him, Corvan was still fighting orcs. They moved off, but I stayed with you. I was so worried you might be dead!"

Pribuna sure gives the impression that orcs are honorable and trustworthy. Pribuna wants you to stay in the caves, and not go out into Vukgilug. Not all orcs are nice, she says. Margulg is naturally ''always busy'' with tribe business.

The only way out of the cave is the 100 foot tunnel that goes straight up. The only way out is to climb. The climb DC of 15 would be quite difficult for you. In short you are ''trapped'' in the caves.

Pribuna "Getting me to be vassal is good. Good for tirbe. Me not know what more you can do. "

Pribuna is thrilled that her new scribe scroll feat can be use for her divine spells as well. She makes out three cure light woulds scrolls for you.

Cumhepninon knows nothing about you, as he does not care about ''little things''.

The orcs in the caves consider you Pribuna's guest. Her word carries a lot of weight with the tribe, so everyone listens to her and respects her....even more so in her family.

Languages
You get both common and elven as bonus languages. Illuskan does take one of your bonus slots. But you also get another language.

Experince!
With everything you have done in the cave, your XP count would go up to 1030. You can take the chance to level up.

pife

2013-04-30, 09:10 AM

AWESOME!! Of course, I just happened to leave my flash drive at home (it has all the pdf's of my books), so I won't be able to update my character till this evening. I'll hold off on any actions until then as well, as spells/modifiers may change based on what I do. Sorry about that. 99% of the time, I have it here, but left it on the bedside table this morning.

I will take this opportunity to tell you that I'm having a very good time, and you're doing a great job. Do I need to do more "direct" roleplaying, as in one on one conversational roleplaying, or has it been acceptable so far when we're in a semi-administrative session (90 days to train Pribuna, a couple of months with Mudlar, that kind of thing) for me to just list my priorities and activities?

GoddessSune

2013-04-30, 10:56 AM

I'm having a good time too. I'm fine with the mix of direct and indirect role playing.

pife

2013-04-30, 08:48 PM

Gaining a level of Wizard

Hit Points: [roll0]

Skill Points: 1 Point Craft (Sketching)
2 Points Survival (1 Point CC)
1 Point Knowledge: Nature

New Wizard Spells in book:
Cause Fear
Color Spray

With your permission, I will use my extra language slot to have learned Orcish these last months.

(Hey, almost double digit Hit Points, lol)

pife

2013-04-30, 09:02 PM

After Pribuna's "graduation", I'd like to begin making preparations to leave. I still plan to go to Ironhole and find the shrine of Malar. I feel extremely optimistic, especially since I feel that my limitations have... lessened.. and I have a map case (pressed into service as a scroll case) stuffed with spells, giving me SOOO many more tactical options.

The first thing I want to take notice of is whether or not they seem as if they're going to let me leave. I plan to get out, whether I have help, or whether I have to risk my life and climb out.. I do not consider myself a prisoner in the least, (even though I haven't left this gods forsaken cave for 3 months.. I hope Malar can hear underground, lol).

Pribuna, are the Dark Tusks on neutral terms with any local human or elven settlements? Good enough to trade with?

This one's just a shot in the dark but.. Does your tribe make anything, craft anything?

Before I go.. I want to earn honor for your tribe. You should have the warriors take us on a raid!

Will I be welcome if I return?

GoddessSune

2013-04-30, 09:22 PM

Pribuna does not care much about the future other then getting her vassal spot.

Pribuna of the Dark Scars"The Dark Tusks?! They are savages, even for orcs. They are not neutral with anyone I know of.

The Dark Scars don't craft much more then we each need. We raid for what we can't make.

You want to go on a raid? We could do that. We owe the Gray Gords for a recent raid. We could go.

Your welcome enough, we need numbers. You are fit enough."

You can learn Orcish...

pife

2013-05-01, 07:13 AM

Yes! The Gray Gords.. I would love to join your tribe on a raid! For after that, I must depart for Ironhole.

How do we proceed?

GoddessSune

2013-05-01, 07:50 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars "The Gray Gords raid will be next day just after sunrise. We can join no problem, they always like to have more arrow fodder.

pife

2013-05-01, 08:41 PM

Oh good, I do love being arrow fodder!

That night, I will spend extra time in prayer to Malar, asking him to help me be swift, and merciless. I will also listen to the other orcs as they are preparing..

GoddessSune

2013-05-01, 11:27 PM

The orcs ready weapons and equipment, such as large smoky glass goggles. They don't talk about the raid, but more make ''small talk''.

The Dark Scars
The Dark Scars are a tribe of primarily Yellow orcs. They are not native to the north, but come from far to the east. Long having demon blood from the time before time, they moved west in search of new hunting grounds.

pife

2013-05-02, 06:45 AM

I attempt to infer what the goggles are for.. Failing that.. Goggles, Pribuna? Are we going to use smoke as a weapon, or are the Gray Gords known for poking people in the eye?

I too get ready, checking my gear. I ask Pribuna if the raid will be above or below ground. If above, Nicodemus can potentially be a good scout for us. If below, I ask if there will be any light source, as I can see well in dim light, but cannot see in complete darkness.

GoddessSune

2013-05-02, 04:32 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars"Most orcs don't see very well in bright light, especially bright sunshine. That is why we attack at dawn. But smoke goggles allow an orc to see and not get light blindness.

It is an above ground raid. The Gray Gords are semi nomadic, they live in animal fur tents.

We don't really need a scout. We know where they are. We go, we raid, we come home."

pife

2013-05-02, 04:54 PM

Ahh, I see.. Are we raiding for loot, or raiding for vengeance?

I tell Nicodemus to stay in the air during the raid, and I instruct him to stay rather high, out of bow range, just in case. I also prepare several oil flasks with rag stoppers. I can't get to my character sheet from work, but I'm going to change some of my spells. (3x Daze, 1x Prestidigitation, Sleep x2, Charm Person x1

GoddessSune

2013-05-02, 08:01 PM

Pribuna of the Dark Scars "Yes, vengeance and loot, both are equal. It will be a quick one, in and out. "

The orcs gather on the surface and make large fires. The night is full of foods and strong drinks. The orcs are fairly quiet, however, and simply trade tales of raids in the past. Then the orcs simply all go to sleep.

Everyone is up early just before sunrise, and are ready to go....

pife

2013-05-02, 08:17 PM

With a quick prayer to Malar, I check my "arsenal", such as it is, and am ready to go as well. I wipe my skin and clothing with ash and soot, darkening me, and obscuring my features.

Quietly, to Nicodemus Away, my friend. Watch and see if I don't do us proud!

GoddessSune

2013-05-02, 09:00 PM

The orc raiders break up into small groups, you go with Pribuna, two other female orcs, one male orc and four goblins. A couple young orcs run from group to group keeping everyone in communications. You move along the rocky mountain path ways, until you come to a stop and everyone is told to hide and be ready. The sun rises and it gets very bright, all the orcs except Pribuna put on the smoky glasses.

Then the order to attack is given. Everyone rushes over the next rocky rise, where you see a collection of dozens of fur huts and orcs. There are plenty of Gray Gord guards about, all wearing smoky glasses too. The raid is not much of a 'surprise'....

A group of seven spear welding guards rushes to intercept your group.

Your the only one with extreme ranged attacks, so you may take an action at 100 feet away from the enemy orcs, if you wish too. Otherwise combat will start for round 1 with everyone 100 feet away from each other.

Round 1
InitiativePribuna and her group [roll0]
Gray Gord guards [roll1]

pife

2013-05-03, 09:25 AM

Initiative [roll0]

At max range (120'), I cast sleep DC to resist 13, will last for two minutes. I center my spell on the largest concentration, so that I can hopefully get as many within the 10' burst as possible.

My action in the 1st combat round will also be Sleep unless I am somehow threatened first. If this second casting can't get at least three (of the 7 in the group originally attacking us), I will look for an alternate cluster within range (if any)

GoddessSune

2013-05-03, 07:24 PM

Orc Saves:[roll0] [roll1] [roll2]

Round 1

[roll3][roll4][roll5][roll6]

Your first sleep spell has no effect on the orcs...

The Gray Gord guards move towards your group, but none come directly at you. Two of the goblins are knocked to the ground, and one of the female orcs is wounded.

Pribuna knocks out a guard with her club, and the rest score hits.

Your second sleep spell puts two orcs to sleep.

So three Gray Gord orcs are out of the fight....

pife

2013-05-06, 08:57 AM

Sorry for the silence over the weekend, just got busy.

Are there any "clumps" of enemy orcs (at least two) that I could attempt to use one of my Sleep scrolls for?

If there are not any enemies isolated enough to make Sleep worthwhile, I would like to find an unengaged orc, and let fly with my crossbow. If there are no clumps, and no unengaged orcs, I will use a Mage Armor Scroll on myself.

Attack roll if I can't find at least two that I can catch together, but can find an enemy not engaged in combat (are there any chieftan/shaman/VIP's in sight)?

[roll0]
[roll1]

GoddessSune

2013-05-06, 04:25 PM

The last four standing orcs in your immediate area are grouped together, attempting to both fight side by side and to block easy access to the tents.

Though the four Gray Gord orc guards are in melee with the Dark Scar orcs and goblins.

You don't see any ''vip'' orcs, all the orc guards look the same: furs and weapons.

Round 2

Pribuna moves over and heals the wounded female orc. The rest of the fight is a chaos of blows and misses, but no one falls this round, but plenty get wounded.

pife

2013-05-06, 04:39 PM

SLEEP centered on the 4, with a quick prayer to Malar to make my casting quick and true!

With a reminder to Pribuna that the three that are already out will need to be killed or tied up in the next 90 seconds.

(And the one I'm casting from the scroll will only last ONE minute)..

GoddessSune

2013-05-06, 05:13 PM

Orc Saves:
[roll0] [roll1] [roll2] [roll3]

And that is one very much Awake group of orcs......

Pribuna"No killing, we just want to be gone by the time they wake up."

pife

2013-05-07, 06:50 AM

I curse as my spell fails to even make one of them yawn, and dash the scroll to the ground in frustration. (the empty/used scroll, btw, lol).

Since this raid is to be less-than-lethal, a concept which confuses me, I content myself with guarding Pribuna, readying my crossbow and holding my action until something threatens either she or I, or until another development requires that I change my action.

I remind myself to ask Pribuna what the point is in leaving enemies alive. Surely they'll only steal everything back in the next raid...

GoddessSune

2013-05-07, 07:31 PM

It's only another round before the last of the are knocked to the ground, along with one that is stuck to the ground by a tanglefoot bag from one of the goblins.

Then it's a mad dash over to the skin and fur tents as everyone starts to grab anything they can get a hold of and then turn and run back the way everyone came.

You watch as Pribuna runs out of a tent with an iron pot that she holds up proudly.

pife

2013-05-08, 06:44 AM

I raise my fists over my head and cheer her gain, and join in the fun.. Is there anything useful or "valuable" close to hand? Do the Grey Gords have prisoners? If so, I want to quickly evaluate them as well.. Whether they are to be freed, ransomed, or kept as slaves (hehe) remains to be seen.. I scan the area around me and look for things that perhaps the orcs don't realize the use for. Who knows what orcish bandits pick up in their raids, so I'm keeping an eye out for books, scroll/map cases, vials, small pieces of artwork, high quality weaponry, tapestries, dyes, perfumes.. I will judge how quickly the orcs are moving (do they plan to be gone in the next 30 seconds, 3 minutes, 30 minutes, etc, and base my pace on theirs. If I have time, I will be fairly thorough, but if it looks likely that an iron pot might be the most interesting and valuable "loot", then I will look for something equivalent..

GoddessSune

2013-05-08, 06:28 PM

The first couple of tents are full of basic stuff, but you do spot the goblin (the one that threw the tanglefoot bag) leave a tent with an arm full of bottles and flasks. When you peak into the tent, you see a nice bunch of clay, leather and wood bottles. Nothing is marked. Half contain dry powders, half are liquids. There are also two books, both on wooden stick stands.

The orcs only plan to spend about a minute raiding and then plan to run.

pife

2013-05-09, 06:53 AM

{in my best Gollum voice}.. We wants it all, precious...

I look for a way to carry as much of this as possible, I begin quickly (but carefully) stuffing my bag, (which presumably had been emptied for the raid, except for my "combat load".). I definitely take the books, and as many of the liquids and powders as I can.

Why couldn't Nicodemus have been a horse? I lament under my breath.

After I have taken all that I can carry, I join the others, but keep my eyes open for anything else I can grab.

GoddessSune

2013-05-09, 08:40 PM

You can stuff your sack, but just after that the Gray Gords retaliate with their 'minuteorcs'.

Pribuna"Time to go!" she says as she gathers everyone and runs off.

It's a small chase through the rocky hills, but the Gray Gords don't really chase that far....

Then it is just the trek back to the caves...

pife

2013-05-10, 03:07 PM

Once safely back at the cave, I'd like to examine everything I have. Once I'm able to restudy spells, I will study and cast detect magic at the lot to see if I found anything special. Otherwise, I will try to determine what I was able to snatch.

Is there currently any reason to think that they will not let me leave at my discretion?

GoddessSune

2013-05-12, 12:58 AM

One of the pouches has garlic in it. Another pouch is full of rust flakes. A clay jar is full of honey. One is a bag of coal. The rest you have no idea.

With out some type of skill, you can't identify things.

The first book is a list of recipes, and while you can read it, it only makes a little bit of sense and has lots of words you don't know (like-"add three drops of aqua fortis to the matrass'')

The other is a spellbook:
Level 0 Acid splash, arcane mark, dancing lights, daze, detect magic, detect poison, disrupt undead, flare, ghost sound, light, mage hand, mending, message, open/close, prestidigitation, ray of frost, read magic, resistance, touch of fatigue, Slow burn,
Level 1 Burning hands, chill touch, crafter's fortune, locate water, detect mineral
Level 2 Spectral hand, Accelerate Poison, extract poison

pife

2013-05-12, 07:38 PM

Excellent haul!! As time allows, I will be copying all new spells from this book onto my book.

And with that, I believe my time here with the orcs is, at least for now, complete. I would like to start gathering my belongings, say my farewells, and ask directions for Ironhole.

GoddessSune

2013-05-13, 10:43 AM

The Dark Scars all gather in a large cave to celebrate the raid. It seems that the whole tribe must be here. There is lots of food and drink and stories about the raid. Almost no one pays you much attention. Pribuna comes over and gives you a smile and a pat on the back.

The only person who otherwise notices you is that one goblin who stays within a couple feet of you and watches you, but does not approach or say anything.

pife

2013-05-13, 10:54 AM

I'm not certain how well I would do at identifying a particular goblin at this point, but do I know anything at all about him?

And, does he specifically watch ME, as in watch what I'm doing and where I'm going, or is he watching my THINGS, as in the items I pulled from the tent? (Do his eyes follow my backpack, or do they follow me?)

But, you know what they say about curiosity..

in orcish, quietly but conversationally to the goblin, You did well with that tanglefoot bag, my friend. I throw like a crippled kobold, personally. I noticed that you were gathering strange items after the raid. Flasks and beakers and powders? Very interesting.

What is your name?

GoddessSune

2013-05-13, 08:59 PM

It's definitely one of the goblins from your raiding group. The one you saw grabbing items from the same tent you grabbed the stuff from.

His eyes are quite shifty and beady, it's hard to tell exactly what he is looking at...other then you.

The goblin blinks when you speak to him and shakes a little bit " Zsetg Madmuck. I did not mean to bother you. I saw you raid the shaman's tent too. I wondered what you got? You an alchemist too? A wizard? "

pife

2013-05-14, 06:47 AM

You haven't bothered me Zsetg. I see that we have similar interests. Yes, I am a wizard. And you? Not many goblins or orcs would have looked for the items I saw you carrying yesterday.

Forgive me, but.. are you a slave, or a "guest", like me?

GoddessSune

2013-05-14, 04:31 PM

Zsetg Madmuck "Aye I'm a wizard too. I'm a guest. My tribe...my whole tribe was killed by them dark tusk or black tusk orcs or whatever they are called. We was peaceful enough, but they did not care and killed them all. I'm the only one left. I only lived as I was not there. I was out picking moss. Leave home as the sun comes up, but no home when the sun goes down. So I am here."

pife

2013-05-14, 07:18 PM

I'm going to pose a couple of conversational questions that I have for Zsetg. Unless he's in a hurry, I make it obvious that I'm interested in talking to him. I'll slip these questions into the conversation where I can.

I'm sorry for your loss Zsetg. I then spend the next few minutes chatting amiably with him before moving on to the topic I'm actually curious about..

Zsetg, were there many wizards in your tribe? I did not know that many goblins followed the Art. Did you come here on your own, or did you, like me, just wake up here?

Did you make that tanglefoot bag yourself?

So that's why you were seeking those components.. Did you find anything of use? I might be willing to trade spells with you if you like, depending on what you have.

So how long are you planning to stay here? Pribuna and her tribe, well, they saved my life, really, but it is time for me to move on. I feel the calling of my God, and I seek one of His places of worship.

Do they treat you well here? I had read somewhere that orcs are not kind to goblins most of the time. Very unfair, that.

GoddessSune

2013-05-14, 08:37 PM

Zsetg speaks in orc.

Zsetg Madmuck "My tribe has....had...many wizards. Alchemists. Sure goblins do magic arts.

I came here on my own. The Dark Scars are known to take in others. And there are plenty of goblins in the Dark Scars already.

Yup, I made the tanglefoot bag.

Of course I got good stuff! I only grab good stuff!

Trade spells? You got good spells?

Stay here? I planned to join the tribe...I guess. I got no where else to go.

Not all orcs are the same. Or all goblins or humans. The Dark Scar orcs are better then most. They care about big things, not little things like kicking goblins. So far, they treat me good...most ignore me. Me fine with that."

pife

2013-05-15, 07:11 PM

Alright, I would like to arrange to share spells with him. I'll trade on a one for one basis in general. Although, I would like to see what other alchemical creations he might have that I could trade for. (antitoxins, tanglefoot bags, etc).

Let me know if he would be amenable to these trades.

I'm thinking to myself that i've (so far) experienced greater kindness and sense of belonging to a village of mud-dwellers and a tribe of orcs (and now this goblin) than to my elven (or even civilized human) brethren! Just one more reason that I must seek out other followers of Malar. Civilization is corrupt, and the Beastlord shows the way.

Before I go, I want to take a moment and make a sketch of the common area I've been staying in. Nothing too detailed, just a 10 minute sketch or so.

If it appears that Zsetg is attempting to receive, or would be amenable to an invitation to travel with me, I pursue that conversation.

Beyond that, I think I'm ready to go. Hopefully Pribuna does well, and I can potentially consider her a future ally.

GoddessSune

2013-05-16, 09:59 PM

Zsetg Madmuck "your heading to Ironhole? I've never been there. But I have heard lots of stories about the goblin alchemist gulid there. I might like to come and see that. And I need to replace my alchemy stuff. Maybe buy some stuff made out of glass.

"I don't have too much stuff, I lost it all when I lost my tribe. I can't even make much, as I only have my travel kit. But I have four more tanglefoot bags, two antitoxions, six jars of fire beetle paste, two vails of goblin ink, two frost bombs, and six jugs of glue."

"And spells? I got glue and boil water. Alchemy identify, Identify, cook food, mage hand, scavengers eye, detect mineral, diving rod, locate water, boiling sphere, "

pife

2013-05-17, 06:52 PM

Well, you would be welcome to travel with me. I am leaving for there tomorrow. And I did not know that there was a goblin alchemists guild there. God's Eyes, I didn't know that such a thing existed. Fascinating!

where can I find those spells, or are those just "goblinifications" of standard spells? I don't recognize a few of those, so I'm not sure how many to "trade" if he's willing..

I ask him if he's got a familiar, and I introduce him to Nicodemus. Other than that, if he's willing to trade spells, I would like to transcribe them into my book, and discover if he's going to travel with me. On the morrow, I leave for Ironhole!

GoddessSune

2013-05-19, 12:59 AM

Zsetg Madmuck "I'll travel with you...always wanted to go to Ironhole. Just never got around to it. And it would be good to meet other goblin alchemists too.

Zsetg removes his left boot and shows you a snake wrapped around his toes "Soluutoo, he is shy"

Cook Food=Transmutation
Descriptor Fire
Level Sor/Wiz 0, Brd 0
components V,S, F/DF
casting time 1 minute
range Touch
target Enough food for 1 meal, plus 1 additional meal per 5 caster levels

duration Instantaneous

This spell cooks food magically, without any need for fire or cooking implements. The resulting dish is only as good as the caster could normally prepare without magic. Adventurers and soldiers find this most useful for cooking meals when lighting a fire might attract dangerous attention.

A bit of ruby or fire agate, worth at least 10 sp.

Boil Water Transmutation
Descriptor Fire
Level Sor/Wiz 0
components V,S,M
casting time 1 standard action
range 5 feet
target
effect 1 gallion of water/level
area
duration Instantaneous
This Cantrip brings any water source up to 1 gallon in volume to a boil instantly. The water will do 1 pt of damage to anyone touching it with bare skin. The water stays hot for 10 rounds, depending on the surrounding temperature, but will only do damage for half of that. Does not work on water based creatures.

Glue
Transmutation
Level: Bard 0, Sorcerer 0, Wizard 0,
Components: V, S, M,
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Nonmagical, unattended object weighing up to 5 lb.
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Will negates (object)
Spell Resistance: Yes (object)

Stick affixes one item weighing up to 5 pounds to another, heavier item.
The two items can be separated with even a small amount of force, such as a wind stronger than 10 mph, a mage hand or unseen servant spell, or a move action by any corporeal creature (which provokes attacks of opportunity).
Material Component: A bit of dried glue.

Alchemy identification= School divination Level sor/wiz 0

By the means of Alchemy identification you gain a greater understanding of magic potions. You gain a +5 bonus to spellcraft checks for purposes of identifying a potion. It still requires one minute of time to identify a potion. If you failed once already with spellcraft without this spell cast then you are allowed a second try using this spell.

Scavenger’s Eye
School Divination
Level Sor/Wiz 0, Druid 0
components V,S
casting time 1 standard action
range Close
target One possible foodstuff or drink
duration Instantaneous

this spell allows the caster to detect whether a certain source of food (such as a plant, berry, or carcass of a dead creature) or drink (such as a well or certain form of juice) is typically safe for ingestion (devoid of diseases, poisons, and other such afflictions) by the casters race or not. Natural threats (such as poisonous berries, diseased flesh, water filled with fecal matter, or sources of acid mistaken for water) are detected but supernatural diseases and poisons added by the action of another are not detected by this spell.

Detect Mineral
School Divination
Descriptor
Level Drd 1, Sor/Wiz 1, Earth 1, Metal 1
components V, S
casting time 1 standard action
range 40 feet
area Quarter circle emanating from you to the extreme of the range
duration Concentration up to 1 minute/level

This spell allows you to search for a particular metal or mineral. The spell finds only raw, unworked metallic ore or minerals, so coins, armours, weapons and other worked items are invisible to this spell, as are cut gems. Detect Mineral finds whichever metallic ore or mineral is requested by you (absence or presence), or the largest source if more then one mineral is within range. You learn the direction and range (to within 5 feet) of the material requested. Only one metallic ore or mineral can be searched for with each casting.

The caster level also limits which ores or minerals can be detected, as indicated on the following table. Lvl Metal Mineral 1 Base (lead, tin, iron) Base (0-1 gp in value) 2 Copper Ornamental (1-5 gp in value) 3 Silver Semi-Precious (5-20 gp in value) 4 Gold Fancy (20-50 gp in value) 7 Platinum Precious (50-200 gp in value) 9 Mithril Gems (200-500 gp in value) 12 Adamantine Jewels (500+ gp in value)

Divining Rod
School Divination
Level Sor/Wiz 1
components V, S, M
casting time 1 action
range Touch
target Area 60 foot cone
duration 1 round/level (D)
This spell enables the caster to enchant the branch of a ginkgo or fruit tree to locate a common item that is hidden from view. Unlike locate object, the caster does not need to have a speciﬁc mental image of a particular item; rather, he only needs to state the name of the general type of item he wishes to locate, such as buried treasure, edible plants, or fresh water. However, divining rod will not locate invisible or magical items, nor will it locate items protected by obscure item or a similar spell.

Once the branch is enchanted, the caster holds the branch with both hands. If the desired item is within 60 yards, the enchanted branch points in the direction of the item and gently pulls the caster along. The spell is not blocked by lead or any other substance. However, is an impenetrable obstacle is reached, such as the ground or a wall, the branch presses against it and stops. If there is no item matching the description within 60 yards, the branch does not react, although the caster can move about and continue to search.
Material Component

The branch from a ginkgo tree or a fruit tree, such as peach, apple or lemon. The branch must be shaped like the letter Y, so that the caster can grasp a fork of the branch in each hand

School evocation
Descriptor
Water
Fire
Level Cleric 2, Druid 2, Water 2, Sorcerer/Wizard 2
components V,S
casting time 1 standard action
range Close
effect
area 5 ft. square
duration 1 round + 1 round/level, (D)
saving throw Yes
spell resistance Yes

a superheated, steaming, boiling sphere of water that floats within a single 5 foot square. The sphere deals 1d6 fire damage per round to targets within its square. At the end of its duration, the boiling sphere collapses (if it has a place to fall) and deals 1 point of splash damage to all adjacent targets. A Reflex save negates this splash damage.

The steam (or bubbles if underwater) obscure all vision through the sphere's space. It does not provide cover from ranged weapons, but it does provide concealment depending on the situation. Standing in the sphere renders a target effectively blind.

This spell functions normally underwater and in vacuums.

pife

2013-05-19, 11:45 AM

Fascinating, Zsetg! These are brilliant spells, very useful! I happily exchange spells with him. I'm fairly egalitarian about this, and don't mind if Zsetg gets a good deal out of the exchange. Probably unwise, but I like the little guy. In addition to the spells that I share with him, I give him 1 scroll each of; Mage Armor, Shocking Grasp, and Identify, as a gift. (My character sheet is updated with added spells, and reduced inventory).

And, I get inspired, and draw a sketch of Zsetg coming out of a plundered tent, his arms filled with bottles and papers, dropping a sparkling vial, and missing a winged dagger fluttering nearby. (pure artistic license, obviously).

Hopefully, the next morning, Zsetg and I will set out overland for Ironhole.

GoddessSune

2013-05-19, 07:44 PM

You will need over 100 gold to put all them spells in your spellbook. 40 gold for each 2nd level, 10 gp for the 1st level ones, 5 gp for the 0 level. But as you and Zsetg trade spells, you can pay each other the ''standard fee'' of 50 gold per spell level and ''trade'' the costs back and forth. It takes an hour per spell level, so you'd take the day after the raid doing this.

You now have 26 0 level, 16 1st level and 5 2nd level spells by my count. At one page per spell level, that is 52 pages of your spellbook used.

You spend the day after the raid trading spells, copying spells and chatting. You stay in the side cave to the main cave, not Pribuna caves. The place for ''not quite tribe members, but close''.

Pribuna is busy getting things ready for her vassal application. She only stops by at lunch time to see you for a couple minutes.

Zsetg meanwhile drops little hints as to what would be something alchemical he could make you for a gift.

pife

2013-05-19, 08:20 PM

I'm actually really jazzed at how many spells I've been able to "find", lol.. And some very interesting ones, too! And, are we assuming that my spellbook has a standard 100 pages in it? (by the way, I have a 2nd spellbook as well, retrieved from the tents, with less spells in it, so there's my overflow book if it ever comes to that.

Waiting another day is no problem.

When Pribuna visits, I inquire if there is anything else I can do to help her prepare? I always have time for a friend!

I've never seen some of these things, Zsetg, admiring his alchemical handiwork.
What is "goblin ink" used for, and how does your "frost bomb" work?

GoddessSune

2013-05-20, 02:57 PM

Zsetg Madmuck "Thanks for the alchemy spells. I should have grabed the spellbook myself, but just could not resist all the ingredents. I got some fire beetle wings, troll hair and even a dragon claw!

Oh, a frost bomb is just like a fire bomb, but it makes ice and snow, not fire. I make them more for the winter time. Goblin ink is ink that is not effected by water. Elves stole the formula from the goblins long ago, but they still call it goblin ink too.

Pribuna does not need anything at the moment, except her alone time to get ready.

Standard spellbooks have 100 pages. You do have a wide spell list now, though a lot of them are not 'adventurer spells'...like cook food.

pife

2013-05-21, 02:04 PM

Boy, it sure must be nice having those tanglefoot bags though, eh? I'm not very fast, so one of those would be really handy if I ever needed to run from something.

Well, with spells scribed, (I'll need to find some time and materials soon to scribe more scrolls), and having bid everyone farewell, Zsetg and I will presumably be setting off tomorrow. (By the way, I will ask Zsetg to teach me some of the rudiments of the Goblin tongue.. (Stop, come here, wait, hungry, where is it, what is it, etc). Nothing that would make me conversational, but enough that I might be able to catch it when one says "Kill the skinny elf"..

GoddessSune

2013-05-21, 11:56 PM

Zsetg Madmuck "I only got four tanglefoot bags....but here..."

Zsetg hands you two tanglefoot bags.

He is ready to go tomorrow.

Goblin words:
Known as Ghukliak.

Spoken words are only a part of Goblin conversation. In addition to body postures common to all humanoids, goblins have mobile ears that express attitude, anxiety, and other emotions.

Ug == Hi

Gug'ye == Goodbye

Rulg == Thanks

Lat == You

Me == I

Yub == Yes

Nub == No

Paaldaask: A spellcaster. Literally a "spell-warrior."

Toh!: A Goblin warning cry ("Beware!").

pife

2013-05-22, 06:43 AM

I'm very pleased with Zsetg's gift, and I concede that my ears, though longer than the norm (for humans, anyway), will never be able to twist and bend like his..

I file those words away, and make preparations to leave in the morning, being sure to thank Pribuna again.

Nicodemus, it's high time we started spending more time in the daylight again!

GoddessSune

2013-05-22, 10:31 PM

The next day arrives.

Pribuna shows up to say goodbye and wish you well.

Zsetg Madmuck is ready.

Nicodemus is ready too.

pife

2013-05-23, 06:44 AM

Thank you, Pribuna, for saving my life, for being an excellent student, and for treating me with respect. The Dark Scars have much honor! I say this, of course, in Orcish, even though Pribuna has that splendid magical necklace. I hope that we shall meet again someday. I wish you well in becoming a consort and leader of your tribe.

And after checking my equipment one last time, I think we're ready to set off toward Ironhole!

GoddessSune

2013-05-24, 08:00 PM

It is a fairly clear morning as you head east. Just a couple minutes of travel puts you back in the 'true wilderness' beyond the patrols of the Dark Scars.

Zsetg Madmuck follows along behind you, keeping pace with your steps and Nicodemus flies over head. Soluutoo mostly stays in Zsetg's boot, but pokes his head up from time to time.

Just before noon Nicodemus leads you over to an ''odd burned area', and sure enough, it is an oddly burned area. It's about thirty feet wide, a perfect circle of burned plants and rock and dirt, and it has about a dozen scattered and burn orc body parts in it. Nothing much is left that is bigger then a fist or half a head. There is no sign of clothing or other equipment. The area is still slightly warm as you stand next to it...

Zsetg Madmuck "Hummmm......"

pife

2013-05-27, 07:07 PM

May I make a Spellcraft check to determine if the source seems magical? From what I've read about advanced magical principles and castings, this might match the description of the potent "fireball" spell my master told me I would never be talented enough to cast.

If acceptable; [roll0]

Any symbols, tattoos, gear, or other indication which tribe of orcs these might have been?

GoddessSune

2013-05-28, 09:28 PM

While it seems clear that the blasted area was made by magic, you can't tell what spell might have caused it. Fireball is a reasonable guess.

There is not really enough left of the orcs to identify a tribe.

Zsetg Madmuck "This is sure not natural fire. I'd bet my bottles this was magic. Something blasty. Maybe a fireball?

Not much left of the orcs, they could have been anyone."

Nicodemus flutters over "I spotted an elf on a pegasus to the north''! he says with excitement.

pife

2013-05-29, 01:45 PM

Now that, would be a sight to see, I think..

Zsetg, Nicodemus saw an elf on a winged horse over there, I say, pointing in the direction Nicodemus indicated. I'll bet that this magic, this likely fireball, might have come from above. Are we in anyone's territory? We should be wary, and make certain that we don't let this elf fly over us unaware.

I thank Nicodeumus and give him a treat. To both he and Zsetg, Keep your eyes sharp. They may be friendly, they may not, but with me being mostly human and you being a goblin, there's a fair chance that we'll make somebody angry. Nicodemus, don't let anyone sneak up on us.

If there is nothing to salvage from the blast area, I will warily continue on my path toward Ironhole, keeping a sharp lookout, both on the ground, and in the air.

GoddessSune

2013-05-29, 09:45 PM

Zsetg Madmuck shrugs "Everyone claims the Sword Mountains. Elves, orcs, humans, goblins, trolls, everyone.

I never met a nice elf"

You continue along the wilderness.....

It's only an hour later when Nicodemus flutters over "The elf on the pegasus is following us."

You look behind you, but see nothing. The elf is obviously staying out of visual range of the two of you walking. (But not the range of Nic who flies all about you in circles)

pife

2013-05-30, 07:24 AM

I share this information with Zsetg. What type of terrain are we moving through at the moment? Are there any stands of trees in which we might lose (or at least observe) our visitor?

A brief thought strikes me, a mental image of continuing on with Zsetg "tied up", as though I were escorting a prisoner, but then I dismiss it. Even though that might allow us to pass unmolested, it may not, and that is not something one asks of ones new friends.

As we proceed, I make attempts to see our shadow, and make sure that I look in all directions. I also attempt to think tactically, searching for defensible locations as we travel, or at least geographic advantages that would limit a winged assault (trees, ravines, large rocks, etc). At any point, I know that we can be approached or challenged, and I want to have as many options as possible if something occurs.

Knowing that it is an elf, there is likely no benefit to travelling at night. I also realize that this might be a scout that is even now leading others toward us.

Zsetg, just out of curiosity, how much further from Ironhole are we? And... You wouldn't happen to have anything in your bag of tricks that would repel a horse, perhaps by smell? Something that repels elves is just too much to hope for, (though I get a large chuckle at the idea of an anti-elf paste that you spread on your body like a repellent.. OHHH, what a market there would be for that, I'd be rich!).

The biggest reason I attempt to view our pursuer is that.. I really want to sketch the pair of them. I know that fighting will be a last resort, because I'm fairly certain that a fireball created that burned spot, and I further believe that the attack came from above. Zsetg is the wild card here. If the elf sees me, I might be seen as a traveller. Travelling with a goblin.. that would make me more suspicious-looking.

Imploring Malar for the visual acuity of a falcon, we continue to walk, and I continue to try to gain a visual of our observer.

You're doing well Nicodemus. Try to see if anyone is approaching us on foot, please.

GoddessSune

2013-05-31, 02:11 AM

The terrain is rough 'sharp' mountains. The Sword Mountains are (partly) named for all the shape 'sword-like' spurs of rocks that fill the mountains. Otherwise the mountains are covered in clumps of trees, mostly evergreens. There are plenty of caves, crevasses, and big rocks all around.

Check out:http://www.ii.uib.no/~petter/mountains/DD17/2060.jpg

and http://wfiles.brothersoft.com/s/sharp-rocks_181902-1152x864.jpg

Zsetg Madmuck "I'm not too sure how far Ironhole is...never been there. It's at least a couple days walk, I'd guess. Hum, no horse repelant. I could make some if i had the ingredients and a lab. But fire works good, horse don't like fire."

You can try a spot check to see the elf(with a +2 circumstance bonus from Nic too...)

pife

2013-05-31, 02:03 PM

Spot Check (w/+2 from Nicodemus) [roll0]

Anytime past noonish, I'm starting to look for an excellent defensible location. A large overhang, perhaps, something that would hopefully prevent line of sight from the air, to at least mitigate that advantage. You mentioned caves. If I see a cave entrance that might be hidden from a distant observer, I will also cautiously check those out. But if I am able to locate an excellent position, I will suggest to Zsetg that we stop for the night.

GoddessSune

2013-06-01, 12:13 AM

You do catch sight of the elf, a tiny blue clothing speck on a pegasus, far, far, far, far behind you.

By late afternoon, you have found a nice rocky crevice that spirals down under an overhang and into a cave. It will surely provide cover from the air.

Zsetg Madmuck "Good spot!"

pife

2013-06-03, 09:14 AM

We make camp under the overhang. I make sure to cautiously check the cave to make sure that there are no inhabitants currently (I check the outside first for signs of traffic, droppings, bones, tools, etc.)..

Hopefully, using the familiars, perhaps we can still get good sleep tonight, though I do suggest that we set some kind of a watch.. (probably something like Nicodemus to take the first watch, then me, Zsetg, and finally, he sets Soluutoo the final watch. Or any combination that ensures that the casters get enough sleep.. Nicodemus can usually be trusted to stay awake, can't he?).

GoddessSune

2013-06-03, 07:20 PM

The cave is not very deep, only going back 15 feet or so and then ending. The area around the cave is looks clear and you see no sign of tracks or droppings or such. Zsetg agrees that nothing seems to be using the cave at a home at this time.

Soluutoo can take a double watch, as he slept during the day and did not exert himself. Nicodemus sleeps a bit more as he was flying most of the day.

Night passes, but first thing in the morning, just after the sun comes up.....Soluutoo tells Zsetg who tells you that a pegasus has landed just outside the cave and is just standing there. There is no sign of the elf.

pife

2013-06-03, 07:35 PM

To Zsetg: Well, this could get interesting, my friend.. I consider the spells I have available. Nothing that would help communication.. Do pegasi speak or understand Common or Elven, to my knowledge?

Wait here, I tell all who will listen to me, and I slowly approach to within sight of where I think the pegasus is, taking care to look around me for hidden elveses.

If I am able to get within visual contact of the pegasus, I will attempt to be calm and reassuring. I will attempt to speak to it, not as a mount, but as a person, in both Common and Elvish, and waiting to see if it is able to speak, or show sign of understanding.

Some possible rolls if relevant

Spot: [roll0]
Knowledge: Arcana- [roll1]
Knowledge: Nature- [roll2]
Diplomacy: [roll3]
Sense Motive: [roll4]

**edit** haha, the dice gods are angry with Anaglan!

GoddessSune

2013-06-03, 07:53 PM

As far as you know pegasi don't speak, but they can understand speech. Depending on what is taught to them (score one for an elven upbringing...)

It is easy enough to spot the pegasus as it is only about ten feet from the cave and looking right at the cave. The pegasus is pure white, with black hoofs and some other black highlights. It has no bit, bridle or saddle. You don't see anything else in the area.

The pegasus ignores you when you speak common, but looks you right in the eye and listens when you speak elvish.

(But what do you say? lol)

pife

2013-06-03, 08:56 PM

In Elvish: Good morrow, Magnificent One. My friend and I are peaceful travellers.

If I get a response from this, I will continue..

Do you patrol these lands?

Have my friend and I done anything wrong?

Does your friend wish to speak to me?

Have you been following us?

GoddessSune

2013-06-04, 10:24 AM

The pegasus looks at you and listens for a few seconds....but then simply fades away. As it does a female elf in bright sliver plate mail fades into view just to the left of where the pegasus was a moment ago. She sheaths her long sword and removes her helm in a swift movement. She has long, black hair and deep brown skin and dark yellow eyes.

"By the Air and Wind, you are a strange one. Not quite human, but not quite an elf. Some type of half breed? Well, you don't seem overly hostile. Maybe your elven blood cooled the barbaric urges of your human half."

pife

2013-06-04, 10:35 AM

**edit** I am also trying not to swallow my tongue or show "too much" surprise at my visitor** In Elven- Err, yes, milady. My parents were in love, and consequences be damned.

I am Anaglan, milady, if it pleases you. My friend Zsetg and I are travelling through this area, as you can see, and mean no harm to you and yours. And.. I hesitate while looking for the proper words.. My friend is a goblin, milady, but in all the time since I've met him, several months, he has shown none of the typical tendencies of that brutish race. He's quite intelligent and relatively well-spoken, with a keen interest in people and their ways. I only tell you that so as not to alarm you if you didn't already know about my companion, though from your lofty vantage point, you likely already did. I am an aspiring scholar, you see, and have been studying primitive cultures such as orcs, goblins, and yes, I will even study the humans ere long.

Pray, is this restricted land? I would hate to think that we are trespassing.

GoddessSune

2013-06-04, 11:13 AM

Tyathaia Skywood"You stand within the elven realm of Illefarn, of course. I'm Tyathaia Skywood, SkyScout of the Air Above. Yes, I spotted you and the goblin yesterday. My Sky Eyes see all. And I can see your a scholar, your quite bookish. Though it's a bit odd to be out traveling the wild alone. The Sword Mountains are a dangerous place." She looks you over carefully and keeps one eye looking back at the cave.

pife

2013-06-04, 12:24 PM

Following her gaze, I think I know what she's thinking.. If you assure me that you mean my friend no harm, I can ask him to join us out here, if you like.

By the way, the pegasus you were riding is truly magnificent! I've never seen one in person before. You are truly lucky to have befriended such a splendid creature!

Is this just a friendly visit, Mistress Skywood, or is there something I need to know? You're welcome to join us as we break the morning's fast. Our repast won't be terribly interesting, but it will be filling. Are you hungry?

GoddessSune

2013-06-04, 01:08 PM

Tyathaia Skywood "I have no need to see your goblin....pet. A lone goblin is not any concern of mine. Yes, my mount, Stron, is a magnificent individual. My family has bread pegasi for countless generations. Once the Skywood Stables floated just to the south of here on massive Treemotes of Soarwood. But they are all gone now.

I'm simply on scout patrol. And needed to check you out. I have not yet had morning feast, but I normally eat while on patrol."

pife

2013-06-04, 01:29 PM

Forgive me, Captain, I ask, chuckling.. but was that a polite acceptance, or a polite refusal? I couldn't tell.

Bold, shiny and graceful.. I appreciatively fill my eyes with the form of the woman before me, but make sure to keep my gaze respectful and appropriate. Almost unconsciously, I mumble something to myself "Vanimle sila tiri, cormlle naa tanya tel'raa", quoting part of an old poem that was in a book my mother owned.

According to a handy-dandy elven phrase listing on the internet, it means "Your beauty shines bright, your heart is that of a lion".

Realizing that I'm daydreaming while confronted with an armed person who can most certainly kill me, I refocus. Can you tell us if there are any hazards nearby that we should avoid?

GoddessSune

2013-06-04, 02:00 PM

Tyathaia Skywood shakes her head side to side " I don't like to stay on the ground too long. And I would not want to eat with...a...goblin.

Hazards? Your in the Sword Mountains! The whole area is hazardous. While head a little more west and you will be in manticore hunting grounds, not to mention bears. And orcs and goblins and trolls. And if you keep going eastward Ironhole is less then a good days walk from here."

If she heard your whispered phrase, she does not give any indication of doing so.

pife

2013-06-04, 02:27 PM

Well then, I'll not keep you from your duties. We will be wary on our journey, and pray that Rillifane will guide us through this wilderness and see us safe to our destination.

Sweet water and light laughter until next we meet, Lady Skywood.

I bow to her formally,

Less than a good day's walk, she says? Excellent! Once she is gone, and we have eaten and prepared to move, I will share this with Zsetg.

Perhaps, Zsetg, we should attempt to make it only most of the way to Ironhole today. That way, we can come upon it in the daylight, where there are less twitchy blades and errant bolts. What say you?

I attempt to memorize the image of both the elf and pegasus, and plan to sketch both at this evening's camp.

GoddessSune

2013-06-04, 04:51 PM

Tyathaia Skywood nods quickly, "Yes, sweet laughter and good light to you also. I must return to the sky." She looks up and from nowhere a pegsus comes into view above her and makes a few tight circles before landing right next to her. With a simple quick movement she climbs into the saddle. And with a single jump and beat of wings they are several dozen feet away at least. It takes less then a minute for them to be out of sight.

Zsetg Madmuck "Sounds good to me. I heard Ironhole can be a rough place, and bet it's only worse at night. "

Afterwards you set out westward, across the rough broken ground. The day is only partly cloudy and a bit cool. you see some animal signs and a glimpse of an animal or too, but nothing dangerous approach you and you see nothing monstrous.

By afternoon you come upon a fairly well marked and used trail that winds it's way north and west through the mountains. Zsetg nods and waves to turn and follow the trail. About an hour down the trail you pass a large wooden pole with an arrow pointing along the trail. A flat and rusted, battered iron disk hangs from a rope on the pole through a hole in it's middle.

Zsetg nods "This is the way to Ironhole all right...we must be getting close."

pife

2013-06-04, 08:30 PM

Once again I begin searching for a good spot to camp, a little way off the road. This close to civilization, it's likely that there will be more traffic. As much as reasonable, we will use the familiars to watch our sleep (and i am secretly proud of the little snake for seeing the pegasus. I wouldn't imagine a snake would do much looking "up".. )

I changed a couple of my spells out (or at least, I will if the night passes). I dropped Detect Magic for another Daze, and I dropped Sleep for Charm Person.

Before I turn in, I would like to sketch the pegasus and elf in flight, and give prayers to Malar, asking to watch over this cub as he strengthens, and to guide me to one who will teach me the ways of the hunt.

GoddessSune

2013-06-04, 09:18 PM

You locate a nice rocky overhang that faces away from the road. It looks to be a good camp site. In fact, you find a pile of burnt logs there and some firewood.

The familiars keep watch, but report nothing moves toward camp during the night. But they both hear plenty activity out there.

Night passes and morning comes.....

pife

2013-06-05, 06:32 AM

I take extra care in my preparations in the morning. Today could be dangerous. I quiz Zsetg as we walk, picking his brain to see if he knows any other useful details. Names, places, laws, things like that.

As soon as he's ready, I'm chivvying us onto the road. I want to arrive as early as possible, giving us time to get our bearings before night falls.

GoddessSune

2013-06-05, 10:40 PM

Zsetg Madmuck "I'm not sure what else I know. Goblins live there. Alchemist guild. Rough place. Um, they got lots of iron. And the ruler is a half orc."

The next morning, you get started early. It's not hard to get Zsetg going, as he is excited to get to the goblin alchemists.

The road quickly goes deep into the sharp edges of the mountain range. Within minutes the road on both sides is a steep, sheer, sharp cliff on both sides as it winds deeper into the mountains. It's just past morning (10am) when you come upon Ironhole.

pife

2013-06-06, 06:53 AM

Shall we secure lodgings before we go in different directions? I'm wanting to do a little observing, a little exploring, and I must find the shrine to Malar and they who tend it.

I'm trying to pay attention to the "flows" around Ironhole. Rather than walking blindly in, I want to be observant. I want to get a feel for how large it is, and which amenities might be found here. I attempt to notice how the law is kept (if at all). Does one person/race/group/religion/etc seem to have control or influence? Is there money here, or is it destitute? Does everyone openly carry weapons? Those kinds of things.

GoddessSune

2013-06-07, 05:55 AM

Ironhole True to it's name, Ironhole, looks much like a huge hole filled with iron. Ironhole is a vertical town resting in a very sharp, narrow valley. Much of the town is made of wood and rope, suspended between the valley walls. In the center of the town is a huge stone pillar, carved into a castle at the top. Somewhere below a great many fires burn and smoke and soot cover at least half of the town.

The road your on leads right off the end of a cliff...where a old, rickety rope and wood plank bridge leads over a couple hundred feet to a large platform. At least a dozen orc guards fill this platform, each in scale mail and with iron axes(first metal you have seen in a while). Just at the end of the bridge waits a half orc female in gray robes. She has some scrolls tied around her waist and one in her hand. She looks down at the scroll and over to you....

"You stand before the Might of Ironhole! What do you want?

Get to other stuff later

pife

2013-06-07, 11:17 AM

I believe my friend here, indicating Zsetg, wishes to trade with his fellow alchemists, and I come seeking a shrine. Are there any rules I need know about before entering?

GoddessSune

2013-06-08, 09:37 PM

Zsetg Madmuck quickly moves and ducks down a bit off to the side and behind you. But mumbles a little ''yep'' when you mention alchemy.

Half orc female guard "Rules? You humans and rules. I will never understand. Might Makes Right here, if you need that as a rule. Otherwise, who cares.

She and the other orcs move out of your direct path.

Ironhole looks quite large, it's sure the largest non elven town you have ever seen. It's quite active, you see lots of orcs and men moving about. All the lower levels of the town all devoted to mining. Just above that is ore movement, sorting and smelting. Just above that are the workshops.

You don't see any signs of ''law''.

It's safe to say Ironhole is dominated by orcs and half-orcs.

It's a bit hard to tell if they have ''money'' here. They sure have more metal then you have seen in weeks, but no one looks ''rich''.

Everyone you can see openly caries a weapon, and an iron one at that. Even the half orc female with the scrolls has two iron daggers in each one of her boots.

pife

2013-06-09, 02:36 PM

[COLOR="Sienna"Zsetg, will you be staying with your kinsmen, or shall we find what passes for an inn here and secure rooms?

I'll want to try to locate the shrine as soon as possible. [/COLOR]

If Zsetg is interested, we will both wander the town, getting a feel for it's layout, and identifying any points of interest. Markets, shops that might carry components or implements of spellcasting (admittedly this one is a longshot), temples and shrines, taverns, inns, things such as that.

If there are multiple inn's to choose from, I would like to select the one that looks "less" like I'll be bashed over the head in my sleep and robbed. I realize that I'm in a rough neighborhood, and need to remain alert. Just to be on the safe side, I will be carrying the components for a sleep spell in my hand.

Nicodemus, can you find safe places to roost while we walk through town? Keep an eye on me and those around me, and warn me if it looks like something bad is about to happen, please. I will see if I can find some tasty treats for you here in town. And Nico.. I don't know how friendly they are to elves here. Do me a favor, and when you speak to me, do it quietly where only I can here. I don't want to publicize that I'm part elven. (I will now also arrange my hair so that it covers my ears, at least the tips. As filthy as I likely am after days of travelling, I'm hoping that my elven heritage will be muted under the grime.

GoddessSune

2013-06-09, 07:14 PM

Zsetg Madmuck "I'm not sure. But I'm sure to find a Gob Hole no problem. I should have no problem finding a Stew to share. There are lots of goblins that way, must be the goblin town. But lets look over the place."

Ironhole does not have much of a 'layout'. Most of the town is suspended between huge ropes and poles between the cliff sides. Many buildings look half destroyed, or worse, half falling down.

You find 'the Market' easy enough......a large rope 'platform' suspended between lots of buildings. You see merchants with stalls or tents there, selling all sorts of things. You don't see anything obviously magical.

There are three Inns, the Fall Inn'n that is held up by lots of ropes, but still looks like it's falling. The Iron Inn, looks like a rough place as you can see a fight going on in the main room. Helpolt's Hole is the last one, and rests right above one of the huge smoke clouds from below. It looks quite dirty. They all look like the kind of place you'd be bashed.

Nicodemus flies off, but only for a couple seconds. He comes back saying he was shot at with darts, rocks and even an arrow after just flapping his wings once. He quickly lands on your shoulder and tries to blend in with you.

All the rough, tough looking folk give you glances....but no one does anything...yet.

pife

2013-06-09, 08:11 PM

Well, the fact that they took shots at poor Nicodemus infuriates me. Where I might have been walking down the streets diffidently , even a bit hesitantly, now anger lends me strength. This town is full of predators, most better in a standup fight than I. But walking around with the wide eyes of the prey is sure to cause these predators to leap.

I doublecheck the lashings on my backpack, move my coin purse inside my clothing, and slide my map/scroll case into my boot.

Boldly selecting the Iron Inn for my evening's... entertainment. I stride to the bar with an eye for the innkeep.

Two ales and a room. Something to eat that you would feed your own family, some answers, and then some peace and quiet I grunt to the proprietor, palming 12 gold coins which I will place in his/her hand when I have their attention.

Where lies the shrine to Malar? Where can I get clean? And would an extra five crowns make sure I have a "quieter" evening tonight?

Reducing my purse by 19 gold, pending the answers I may get from the innkeeper

GoddessSune

2013-06-10, 04:49 PM

Not that it makes you feel any better, but you do see folks taking shots at every other bird in the town. Several goblins on rooftops seem to be doing this exclusively.

The Iron Inn, looks a lot like you might expect. A large rectangular structure of wood held aloft by dozens of ropes and an iron chain or two. The common room is full of people. The barkeep and the waitresses are half orcs, but most of the guests look to be human.

Zsetg Madmuck spots a goblin cook and gives you a little wave and point and then moves over to talk to the other goblin. Zsetg offers some mushrooms to the goblin's bot. Within seconds they are having a conversation.

The female half orc proprietor half starts a snarl when you speak to her...but her eyes go wide when she sees all the gold coins you place in her palm. She turns to fill two clay mugs with dark ale and fills a clay bowl with stew and sets them both down to you.

"Room Fiveteen," she says as she gives you a iron key with a '15' on it.

"Plurogh's Bath House is three ropes down. Holy Place of Malar? The Pit of Blood is cliffside. The north rockwall of the valley. Hard to miss as it is a huge pit full of blood."

She nods and says "Quiet night"

pife

2013-06-11, 08:12 AM

I attempt to find a table where I can put my back to a wall. (Barring that, I will position Nicodemus where he can watch my blind side). Once I have set my food down, I will carry the second mug of ale and hand it to Zsetg before I go back and enjoy my meal.

I will be subtly paying attention to the individuals and conversations in the taproom, trying to put my finger on the pulse of the town. I am attempting to be surreptitious.

Once I'm done with my food, (unless I overheard/saw something of particular interest), I will try to get Zsetg's attention and let him know (quietly) what room I'm in if he needs me. Then I will take myself to my room. If it looks infested or dirty, I will first use Prestidigitation to clean and de-bug my room. I also check the door and lock, check the window (if any, also seeing what I can see from that window if it exists). As best I can, I secure my room, locking and blocking my door (with something that will fall over loudly if someone pushes it open at the very least, even if I just have to prop a dagger or something against the back of the door). My plan is to rest until nightfall. Most predators are nocturnal, and I tell myself that nighttime is likely when the shrine is going to be the most active. Besides. I have an advantage over any humans here in the dark. (not so much over the orcs, but you can't win every battle).

GoddessSune

2013-06-11, 11:54 AM

There is no open table against a wall, so you need to settle for the middle of the room. With Nicodemus watching your back.

Zsetg Madmuck is happily in conversation with the goblin cook, and he nods and takes the mug of ale from you.

The main room conversations are a lot of gossip, some trade talk and lots of drunken nothingness. The somewhat obvious pulse is that this is a rough town full of death. You hear the ''Iron Horde'' mentioned several times, often in a bad way (''I wished to buy several hands of swords, but they all when to an Iron Horde order! Bah!").

Your room is, naturally, beyond dirty. Without a doubt you'd clean it. The room has a simple iron lock, already a bit rusted. The wooden door and walls are quite worn as well. The room does have a tiny window, only about six inches across, more like a porthole. The view outside is not much as you just see the ropes and chains holding the inn in place. The room only has a small straw mat for a bed, a wooden box and an iron bucket.

pife

2013-06-11, 12:01 PM

Looking at my "room", I sigh and tell Nicodemus Ahh, luxury. I'm pretty sure even a nest YOU built would be more comfortable than that one looks. And cleaner too!

Well, this isn't a room that I would leave my spellbooks in, so those will have to come with me everywhere I go, and pray I don't get mugged.

Once I've cleaned the room as much as I'm able, I will head to the bathhouse, intrigued yet slightly nervous about what I'll find there. I'm sure it's a veritable mudhole, if my current accomodations are any indication. I will be endeavoring to obtain a bath (without losing any body parts or possessions), and attempting to find out who or what the Iron Horde is. But I plan to keep my clothing and possessions within arms reach at all times and never lower my guard for a moment. I have a feeling that things might just grow legs and walk out of here, if for no other reason than to get out of the filth! I make sure NOT to use any soap (if such a thing is even present) with a scent to it. Not only would it likely cause me to stand out like a sore thumb here, I know that a predator would never coat himself in foo-foo juice.

Gather Information Check if relevant

I can't get to my character sheet from work, so there might be another point or two that I'm missing, I'll have to check later, I'm sorry about that.
[roll0]