The Solace Campaign: Mediocrates

Showing posts with label Mediocrates. Show all posts

23 December, 2011

Talia

"If we can't go past this doorway unseen, then we'll have to investigate," Talia muses out loud. "And if, as seems likely, there are goblins inside, then we may as well deal with them now as later. In fact, I'd like to return back down to the last doorway and deal with the goblins down there as well - after all, that's why we came to this place. Besides, I imagine that one way or another we'll be leaving here in a hurry, so best to do what we came for now rather than later. What say the rest of you?"

Pral

"I am not liking having enemies behind me. I would rather finish these off before going upstairs further. I will never get past the doorway without someone noticing me." He waits for the rest to offer their opinions and decide on what to do.

Ivan: If the consensus is to attack the goblins, then Pral will gladly lead the way, rushing the room for a surprise attack if possible. It's highly unlikely that the party can 'sneak' past the doorway, unless someone wishes to risk a peek first, the goblins may be further back than the light source. If we can make out the noise of the goblins over the bird noise, how many do we think there are?

Mediocrates

The type of light spilling from the stone archway gives Med pause. He thinks to himself, the goblins encountered outside the inn didn't seem to require much light if any to see and hunt, the fact that the light also bears no resemblance to daylight or torchlight is a bit concerning.

Against his better judgement and the uneasiness the spider king gives him, Med finds himself waving at the spider king to come closer to him. He has questions and the mad king who has lived in these ruins for quite some time might have the answers. Once the spider king is close enough to speak to without concern of being overheard by the occupants of the room Med bows respectfully to the mad king and says "King Gragor, is this room usually lit in such a strange manner? Also, in our dealings with the goblins they have been creatures capable of hunting under the darkness of night. During your rule have you found that to be the case as well? If so why would they need the light? I propose that if there is a threat within this room that we work together to eliminate it. After all if they are goblins they must be taught the proper respect and fear for violating the borders of King Gragor's kingdom. Besides, King Gragor, when we return this way with your scepters we may run into these goblins. It may be wise to deal with them now with the element of surprise. What is the great King Gragor's decree?"

Med would not feel too badly if a few of the king's minions or the king himself failed to survive the battle, so he has no plans to attempt to keep anyone outside of the party and himself alive should battle be joined.

21 December, 2011

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Talia

Clearly they are not going to be given the chance to rest before looking for these sceptres. If Talia can speak to the others without the spider king hearing, then, she murmurs that they might do well to give to the spider king two of the sceptres, but promise to give him the third only when they have found and dealt with the goblins and are back at the exit, since this might be the only thing keeping them alive.

As for the possibility that the sceptres might turn a mad spider king back into a mad human king, it is perhaps a risk, but one she sees no way of avoiding.

Regarding practical matters, beyond pressing on into the hall as cautiously as they may, she has nothing to offer.

Mediocrates

Med whispers "Keep your guard up." He has a dart at the ready and keeps on alert as the party presses on. Five spiders might be possible for their small party to take. If given a chance to speak amongst themselves, he will see if the more godly characters in the group oppose such an idea.

Pral

Pral looks around as if not knowing how he has arrived at this point or place.

"My head hurts and I feel like my body has a dozen sheep tied to it."

He rubs his arms and legs before readying his weapons. It obvious from the urgency of the others and their speeches, of which Pral is even more bemused than usual, that action is needed. This Pral understands and whether fettered by imaginary ovine overgarments or not he checks his axes are in position and draws his broadsword with a flourish.

With a nod to Brother Landrau and Med and a wink to Talia, Pral smiles. "Let’s go. I'll protect and no spider will get me this time....where we going anyway?"

He leads the party off into the passage with barely audible muttering about sandwiches and mealtimes, but the sweep of his ever ready blade never wavers and his eyes are focused and ready.

Game Master

Ben: Best turn of phrase in the game so far: "imaginary ovine overgarments". Well done.

Talia

"We may be able to defeat five spiders, if pressed," Talia murmurs. "But who knows how many more are here, who we would then have to fight first to continue onwards in search of the goblins, and then to escape again?

"Be at the ready, Pral, but don't attack them unless they attack us - believe it or not, right now we are on the same side, in theory at least."

19 December, 2011

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Talia

Talia hastily casts Speak with Animals, hopefully speaking before too many of the spiders can slink off.

"If we find these sceptres for you then we are free to hunt the goblins here, and then for us and our armoured friend to leave?" Deliberately reading more into the King's words than he had probably intended, Talia hopes that speaking for his followers to hear might serve to hold him to this. "Agreed. And we thank you for your good will."

Out of ear-shot of the king, Talia murmurs to Med. "Better than a fight, I guess. And if it all goes wrong, I say we make a run for it. Unless you can undo the king's transformation?"

John: Sorry if Talia is hogging the action, but chances are we won't be talking to giant spiders all that often!

Mediocrates

Med waits while Talia and the Spider King come to an agreement. He notices the spiders in the hallway retreat and he turns to Brother Landrau and says with a wry smile on his face, "And so the flys are entering the spiders’ web, of their own choice no less. My good brother, be on alert for treachery while we retrieve Pral." They then make an attempt to retrieve and revive Pral if he is still alive, Med will try to avoid going through as many spider webs and debris as possible.

After Pral is retrieved from the spider lair and brought to in the main cavern, Med voices his concern to Talia, Elendil, and Brother Landrau out of earshot from the spiders.

"I do not trust this spider king, nor do I have the power to break such a curse. A man with such hubris to attempt to become a king of men and of dwarves must have done something to warrant being transformed into a spider. Think back everyone, see if you know of any tales about such a thing. Ask your patron gods for guidance, for I fear to think of the repercussions should we break a curse they placed on this man. In any case, I do not believe we should provide the spider king with all three scepters. What if they free him from his curse and we unleash an old problem anew onto the land? If we could trick the spiders into allowing us to rest, I could prepare a spell that would allow me to know if something has magical properties, this would let us know which if any of the scepters are magical as well as the spider king. We could claim to have traveled far today and with Pral's wounds it is not safe for us to go forward without resting."

Med looks to the others anxiously hoping for their response. If none are forthcoming he nervously begins removing strands of spider webs that have stuck to his robes. He probably fails to fully hear and comprehend what others may say during this time as he is solely focused on bringing cleanliness and order back to his person.

Matt: I have no problems with Talia speaking first and for the group when dealing with nature-related things. I would think Elendil would probably take lead in dealings with elves. Med would take the lead when bantering with a warlock/sorceress. And Pral would take lead when dealing with the local bandit leader, probably intimidating them into leaving us alone

Talia

Talia shrugs. "I would not feel safe resting here - even if the Spider king allows it, I would not trust his subjects not to get hungry. But if you wish to ask the king whether we might return on the morrow to find his sceptres, I have no objection."

John: Though I may be getting ahead of myself here, as I think this conversation happens after Talia has spoken to the spider king, not before!

Mediocrates

Matt: I too would think this conversation happens after the negotiations with the spider king and after Med and Brother Landrau have retrieved Pral from the spider's clutches. Also what aid or insight can Brother Landrau add to our adventure?

"Huh? Yes, yes. It simply wouldn't do to sleep so close to the king's minions." Med mumbles as he's bent in half at the waist trying to remove some particularly sticky spider's webbing and dried leaves from the bottom hem of his robes, the sound of frustration is starting to creep into his voice. "Ha, got it! Finally the last bit of it,” Med says as he stands upright once again and he turns towards Talia to speak. However, he is mostly focused on trying to shake the sticky strands that are now stuck to his hand. After several good shakes the webbing flies from his hand towards Talia.

"Terribly sorry about that. It would seem that you have impressed the king and his charges with your ability to speak with them. Perhaps you could use your influence to get more of his story or to give us the time to rest? We could rest outside of the cave all the while keeping watch for goblins. Should we have to retrieve these scepters I still believe we should not give them to the spider king but will abide by the choice of the party."

15 December, 2011

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Talia

Killing and being killed, eating and being eaten, these are fundamental elements of nature, the engines of the cycle of life. Pral attacked the spiders, the spiders fought back, and now they wish to claim him as meat. Talia can understand this, can appreciate this, even.

But friendship and kinship, sacrifice and love, these too are a part of nature, higher emotions and ideals born of the same bloody cycle, arising from it, emergent from it. And whilst Talia has not known Pral long, still, he is of her group, her tribe, her pack, and cannot be abandoned, neither alive or, should the poision have taken him, dead.

Assuming that Med is now returned to the main hall, she glances at him questioningly. She would like to speak with Gragor herself, but if he wishes to speak with the spider first, then she will allow him to do so. Assuming not, she takes a cautious step forwards, looking up at the Spider-king. For now she speaks in common tongue, but if the spider does not understand, or it seems that having the other spiders hear her as well may prove beneficial, then she will switch to her final Speak with Animals spell.

"We apologise for intruding," she begins, "and for the harm we have inadvertently caused. But we cannot leave, nor can we abandon our friend. However, I would like to propose a bargain. We hunt goblins, who are unnatural and must be slain." She pauses a moment to momentarily savour the irony of speaking with a giant talking spider about what is and what is not natural. "We believe they came through here, and that is why we have intruded on your domain. So if you allow us safe passage, then we will slay them, and their meat will be yours, a gift in return for your mercy, and for the return of our friend. And if you could lead us to them, well, then we will be able to leave you in peace the sooner."

John: Fingers crossed...!

Pral

Ivan: Er, I'll just wait to see what happens. Don't suppose the spiders are tempted by Pral's dragon chokers?

Mediocrates

Med stares at the five spiders in the hall-way ahead of them and does not like the odds one bit. He makes no motions to advance or back down, keeping a wary eye on the spiders. He hopes that Talia is able to secure Pral's release and that Brother Landrau is able to aid him.

Matt: If a dragon choker becomes stale and hard can it be used as a club?

Talia

John: Then it will presumably be a club sandwich.

13 December, 2011

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Talia

For a moment, Talia wonders what part of 'don't go up there without a rope' Pral didn't hear.

"Med, do you have another of those spells?" she asks him urgently. If so, perhaps Elendil can get up there quickly and help. If not, then unless someone has any other suggestions, she runs for the doorway beneath the balcony, hoping that it has stairs up to Pral, and trying not to wonder what she is going do if she manages to get up there.

John: All right, what bright games designer gave Speak With Animals a range of 0?!

Mediocrates

"There's no time for me to find the spell in my pack, we have to go now!" Med says as he readies a dart and runs towards the doorway beneath the balcony. "Pral we are coming!" Med states loudly, hoping that he doesn't get cut in two as he opens the door.

Matt: I will try to decipher the text and post a poorly drawn party map.

I have no problem with a "Caller" role being assigned, but I think it should rotate rather then have 1 person be "stuck" with the honor. Another option would be for players to post 2 or 3 options in order of their preference. EX) Joe the Barbarian will try to judge how far it is across the dark chasm. A) If he thinks he can jump it he will. B) If it's too far but he thinks he can toss a rope and grapple across and have it catch onto something he will try to do that and then climb across. C) If it's too far he will walk along the chasm until he does find a place he can cross. Thoughts?

Talia

John: And so the two unarmoured spell casters bravely rush in to help fight creatures who have already dispatched our well-armoured fighter. Shall we start rolling new characters now?!

Game Master

Ben: I think Speak with Animals has a range of zero because the target is the spell caster herself. Its area of effect is a 4” circle around the caster. I take this to mean that Talia could communicate with any animal that is within forty feet of her.

As for the rope, I wasn’t sure what to think. It had already been established that there wasn’t any rope available.

Talia

John: Ah, that might make a difference...how far away are the spiders? If less than 40 feet, then Talia will instead call out for them to stop attacking her friend, and that they mean the creatures no harm.

Game Master

Ben: Unless the spiders have moved away from Pral, Talia can easily get within forty feet of them. If she casts the spell, does that change Med’s plan to run north and look for stairs? Brother Landrau seems read to follow him if he goes. Elendil lurks mysteriously, his intentions still unclear.

Mediocrates

Med will continue to make haste to the door below the balcony. He knows that should Talia be able talk the spiders out of their current course of action she will happily relay that information. If the spell should fail or the spiders ignore her, will then Med won't have any qualms about attacking. Hopefully, Brother Landrau follows and he can aid their fallen friend.

9 December, 2011

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Mediocrates

Med will ready a dart. If the group needs someone to get up to the second floor he or someone else can get up there with ease with his spell.

Pral

Ivan: Pral will volunteer to go up to the second floor with the use of Med's spell, he is very excited at the prospect! Otherwise he will nod sagely and agree with the majority of the party on which way to go, as he is not much of a decision make unless there is something definite happening.

In wide open spaces, Pral will have a couple of throwing axes in his hand and then change back to his broadsword when entering rooms or corridors.

Talia

With no idea where the goblins might be, Talia supposes that up is as good a direction as any to take. But she suggests that Pral make sure he has rope with him before making the ascent, so that the rest of them can follow. While he is making the climb, she'll keep a sling at the ready, in case Elendil did see something up there.

John: Regarding having one of us as caller, I'd recommend we go with whatever is easier for the DM. Personally I rather like the muddling along approach, with the DM asking for clarification if we disagree with one another. But happy to do whatever is preferred.

5 December, 2011

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Pral

Pral stands before the cave and watches the others discussing the possible actions to be taken. All of a sudden his face lights up and he turns to Med, tugging on his sleeve like some insistent child."Wasps! That's the answer!"

When he glances round and is met by blank looks he frowns and then says, "My dad had wasps once in the barn. We couldn't get in the barn to get them so we built a massive fire and put damp wood and grass on it. Then all the smoke filled the barn and forced the wasps out. Then we swatted them. We could light a massive fire and smoke the goblins out. Med and the others can drop rocks on them while I swat them. With my swatter." At this point Pral waves the huge broadsword around in a few demonstrative swings, causing all near by to duck even though the blows were easily a hand’s width from them.

Talia

"That's a fine plan, Pral," Talia remarks, "if it is a only a small cave, and if we are sure that the only things in there are goblins. But what if there are other creatures there who mean us no ill, and the smoke could harm or cause distress to? Or if this is not a small cave but rather a big complex, in which case the smoke wouldn't drive out the goblins even if they are in there, only alert them to our presence?"

She looks to the cave, clearly eager to be off. "If no one else wants to, I'm happy to go first and take a look."

Talia doesn't mind if the others want to try Pral's plan, but isn't that keen on it herself. She'll also happily let someone else go first if they want to. But if not, then, telling them to wish her luck, she waves at them, then slips into the cave to take a look.

John: Her current spells are

Faerie Fire (V, 8" range, no saving throw, lasts 4 rounds/level)
Faerie Fire (V, 8" range, no saving throw, lasts 4 rounds/level)
Speak with Animals (no saving throw, 2 rounds per level)
Speak with Animals (no saving throw, 2 rounds per level)

Non-combat rounds are 1 minute, right?

Pral

Surprisingly, Pral does not look at all hurt his suggestion has not been adopted as policy by the party.

"You're probably right Talia. But if we go in I should go first. Others may not be able to swat goblins like me!"

Ivan: Pral will do his best to lead the party, just for the chance to smite stuff. Pral will carry a torch in his shield hand but drop it if it comes to combat. If one of the others carried Pral's lamp that can be placed on the floor if combat ensues, with next to no loss of actions and provide enough light for us to manage with.

Please don’t ask Pral to map, he can't spell map!

Mediocrates

Matt: Typical party order - Pral lead, Landrau second, Talia third, Med fourth, Elendil rear. Sound good? Since Talia wishes to lead the way they could just swap typical order for the time being.

Med gathers up the dry branches and tinder he was able to find and fashions some torches (5?) and hands one to each of the party members. As he readies himself to enter the lair's entrance Med will examine the carvings that Talia, Elendil and Landrau discovered the first time. Are either Landrau or Med able to make heads or tails of what is on the walls while they wait their turns in line? "Pral, do you see any writings like you did in the chapel?" Med asks of Pral while they wait.

Pral

"You mean the stuff on the wall?" Pral immediately looks at all the walls to check.

Ivan: Please let me know if Pral spots something else unusual written on the walls.

1 December, 2011

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Talia

"Damn," Talia mutters. "If they've escaped..."

Still, they may yet be within, and if not, she found their trail once, so she can do it again. Her customary good humour restored at the thought, she turns to the others. "Well, looks like someone has saved us the bother of opening up the cave. Shall we take a look?”

John: I'm taking the liberty of assuming that Talia spent her usual pre-dawn hour in prayer and has her spells restored. If not, let me know. Her items, such as they are, are as follows:

Leather Armour
Soft Boots
Stone Knife (1-4s/m /1-3 l, may break if used in combat)
Sling (1-4 s/m/l)
32 Sling stones
Leather Backpack
Small Belt pouch (containing a dozen or so of the sling stones)
Money pouch (containing a surprising amount of cash for a Druid!)
Sleeping Blanket
Sack of Herbs, Roots, etc.
Waterskin
5 days of Iron Rations (no meat)

Pral

Pral sees everyone else making preparations so he buys a warmer blanket and some hard boots. Oh and a lamp and 2 more oils.

That should do he thinks and gladly follows the others.

Concealed in his pack are two 'dragon-chokers' that he managed to sweet-talk out of the kitchen staff at the inn.

Mediocrates

Matt: Med's gear:

Weapons: Dagger/Darts(19) - proficient in darts
Clothes: belt,boots high hard,boots high soft,cloak,robes,hat
Items: backpack,case - bone map scroll, large belt pouch,small belt pouch*2,waterskin,tinder box,sack large,sack small*2,ironrations(1week),10 tallow candles,18 cigars,rags for bandaging.

We could be hurting on torches and rope after looking at Talia's load and Med's.

Since they are going into a lair or cave system Med will memorize Spider Climb, it seems a better fit then Enlarge or his mystery spell.

Shopping List for Sir Nills (feel free to expand with things Med forgot, it was late when he wrote it and he was tired after studying his spell. He was so tired he didn't even have his evening cigar.)

100' rope per person
1 set Warm/Winter clothing per person
3 hooded lanterns
1 pick axe
1 shovel
Iron rations - 2 weeks per person
2 barrels of oil
3 grappling hooks
1 barrel of drinking water
2 donkeys to carry the items.

[To Talia's question as they are traveling to the Goblin Lair]: Med coughs softly behind his hand, and smiles at what Talia has astutely pointed out. "You are of course quite correct Talia, I make no habit of living amongst the wild animals and enjoying long conversations with them. Magics beyond our means are mysteries only to us mortals who never try to attain them. The fun for mortals and the gods alike, I suppose, is in the solving of those mysteries. Is it not? Rest assured, I will leave the conversing with animals in your more then capable hands."

Med spends the remainder of the hike to the lair in thought about Sir Nills. He's concerned that the man could lead those who follow him to their demise. He seemed, to Med, to lack the ability to think for himself or to formulate a plan and that has him deeply worried. It's as if the man was so focused for all of those years to earn employment or favor from the Countess that now that he has accomplished that he has no idea of how to do anything else. He at least listened to reason and did not blindly charge off into the wilderness, Med hopes that as Sir Nills finds himself that the trait remains. Med resolves himself to keeping a thoughtful eye on the man and his choices once he's in his company again.

Upon hearing that the goblin caves are no longer sealed Med is a bit worried. Talia's suggestion to just head straight away into the caves gets an involuntary “are you crazy???” look from Med before he quickly wipes any trace of it from his face. He's not sure if Talia caught that look before he was able to hide it though. With a bit of a nervous cough behind his hand Med offers up, "Another option would be to take a moment or two and look around for signs showing where the occupants of that lovely hole in the rock face have gotten off to. While those of us more skilled with tracking wild things were doing that the rest of us could gather the materials for a few torches, even though it rained hard last night there should be some dry tinder about hiding under some of these rocks I would think."

29 November, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Mediocrates

Med does not have the proper equipment to go climbing around a snow covered mountain and he's reasonably sure Pral doesn't either. He would also wager that neither does Sir Nills. Med and Pral had also agreed to help Talia and Elendil upon returning with the Countess to the Inn.

Med leans towards the center of the table he and his three companions share, careful not to knock over anything or get anything on his robes.

"I believe we should investigate these goblin beasts and their lair. Climbing around on a frozen mountain searching for who knows what without proper gear is foolish."

With a quick look around Med points at Sir Nills over his shoulder with his thumb and says quietly.

"We could send Sir Nills back to Featherstone with the Countess as protection for that journey, and have him return here with some warmer clothing, ropes, rations, and oil. Everything that we'd need to do some proper exploring on The Scimitar. That should take him three or four days, which should give us time to look into the goblin's lair you found. We'll make Thumbs happy, the locals happy, the Harmonic Brotherhood happy, maybe find a bit of treasure, and then have our next adventure already waiting for us with Sir Nills. The only one who will not be happy is the Countess, and from what I've seen the last few days she is never happy anyways. I've said my piece and will listen to what everyone thinks we should do next."

Med looks around the inn to see if anyone might have overheard his say. Reasonably assured that they have been left to make their own choice he glances around the inn to see if he can see any brightly colored fabric or scarves. Maybe he'll have to discuss the mountain lion with Talia after dinner and their choices have been made, getting her input about the world of wild things may be valuable.

Talia

[To Elendil]: "I know you are eager to find elves, and if I can then I'll help you. However, I have heard nothing more than rumours of them, and seen no trace of their presence in my travels. But how about we make a deal? You help me find and kill the goblins, and cleanse the land of their foulness, and in return I'll speak with the creatures of the wild, and see if any of them can discover anything of the elves."

[To Med]: "Call me dense if you want, but I'm not sure I see what the prophecy has to do with the Scimitar? And I've definitely no desire to help out the Countess. But that said, if you'll help me destroy the goblins, then I'll happily go with you on whatever path you wish." She wrinkles her nose, frowning. "Well, as long as it doesn't lead to civilisation, anyway."

"The lion's actions do not seem any it would make of its own accord. So I would think that either it was bidden to take the scarf by another, or perhaps it was not in truth a lion at all, but rather one transformed into the appearance of one. It's size would also suggest that this was no natural creature, or at least, not wholly so. Either way, I do hope we come upon it again, I would love to speak with it."

[To the snake]: While whiling away the afternoon waiting for the return of her companions, Talia goes softly down to the clearing where she found the snake. If it has gone its own way, then so much the better. But if not, and it wishes to help her, then - casting speak with animals - she asks whether it knows anything of the elves Elendil is so keen to find, and, if not, whether it could seek to find out.

John: I've taken the liberty of assuming that Talia prayed for her spells on the morning of her day off, leaving her with:

Entangle
Entangle
Speak with Animals
Speak with Animals - now cast on the snake.

If that couldn't or didn't happen, let me know! Also, in the afternoon she will refill her herb bag with anything useful she can find.

Mediocrates

Med, leans in close to the table once again after hearing Talia's opinion.

"The prophecy the Oracle foretold is supposed to begin with a search of the Scimitar. A daunting task, with the rugged terrain making it even more so. I believe it best to be undertaken with the proper equipment and with the proper level of respect. Freezing to death or becoming a cripple on a poorly planned and equipped expedition is not something that I wish to be a part of. As for the mountain lion, it most definitely was more then a mere kitty. I understood the beast's thoughts as well as it's owner while in it's presence and I hope to remain in both of their favor. Talia, would you think that an intelligent beast would still have the instincts of the beast it is or was? If so we might have to find a really really large ball of yarn should we seek it's favor."

With a smile Med sits back in his chair, hoping that Pral or Elendil will make their thoughts known shortly.

Elendil

Elendil takes a swig of more decent wine than the mushroom concoction and nods, "Having been a cripple not too long ago, I fully agree with Med, we need to make sure that we have the right equipment and a good idea of what we are going to face. I believe Thumbs said that brother Landrau was wanting to support any endeavor to clear the area of goblins. I would welcome his presence and whatever other assets we can turn to our advantage."

Elendil smiles to Talia. "I will stand by you in whatever task you wish to undertake. I'm sure that if there are any elves in the area, they will make themselves known before too long."

Pral

Pral resolutely maintains his silence whilst the others debate on what their options are. He sips his drink and thinks about the next snack. He does not understand all of what is being said, but hears the earnest tone of Med but is also slightly swayed by the gentle tone of Talia. As Med explains his reasoning and says "Freezing to death or becoming a cripple on a poorly planned and equipped expedition is not something that I wish to be a part of." Pral knows this is something he understands and pats Med on the shoulder and says "Yes, Med speaks wise, I think I shall stay by his side."

He glances at each before sipping his drink again and feeling pleased with himself that he demonstrated such wisdom and showed the others he could decide his part of the path the party should take.

25 November, 2011

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Mediocrates

Even though a bit startled from the encounter, the sound of frightened horses urges Med into action.

"Quickly to the horses or it will be a long walk back to the inn!"

Med races toward where the horses are tethered with a dart in his hand. He thinks to himself that the horses might have caught the scent of the lion and be frightened. He hopes that is the case, as he's currently way ahead of everyone else in the Countess's party. Should he get a chance, either on the ride back to the inn or that night, Med will reflect on what happened with the big cat, but right now he's motivated by the thought of not having to walk the whole way back.

Pral

Pral, although initially startled by the lion’s strange and unexpected appearance ,immediately springs into action as it bounds away. Pral does all he can to stay behind the beast but despite his surefooted passage through the rock,s he cannot get past sir Nils before Pral realises he has no chance of realistically pursuing the animal. Pulling up he frowns at the broad back of Nils.

Despondent at the lost opportunity, he returns to Med's side and trudges along for many minutes with his large head held low, his eyes locked down on his booted feet as they throw out clouds of dust as they pounded the miles back towards the inn. Finally the head lifts and the eyes look towards Med with almost a pleading in them, as if caught in a turmoil that will not allow him to rest until the quandary is resolved!

"Med, what would a beast like that want a scarf for? It surely won't be able to tie any sort of a knot!"

Here ends Chapter Three.

23 November, 2011

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Mediocrates

Med, suitably impressed at Pral's gift and favor by Vexia, remarks to him as they descend the stairs, "Pral, my friend. I will never again misjudge you when you see writings. I or any of our friends would be happy to help you make sense of them."

Med formulates a bit of a plan as they descend the stairs, as there's nothing else that requires his attention. He thinks to himself, that should a battle occur, Sir Nills will be the recipient of Med's enlarge spell. Med will then keep a careful eye on that ring to see if and where it might go during the growth caused by the spell. During the heat of battle, it should be easy enough to pick up and hide in his boot with no one the wiser and if he would be asked for it he would return it as he was really just keeping it safe. With a smile at his plan, he adjusts his pack and continues down the stairs with a bit more spring in his step.

Matt: Was my guess at the unknown spell correct?

Game Master

Ben: Your guess seems plausible, but further experimentation may be the only way to tell for sure...

Pral

Pral looks bemused at what has just happened. He sees Med next to him and hears the kind words. Pral thinks that he can trust Med as much as anyone.

"Med, I am not good at understanding all these fancy people and what they say. That woman wants me to come back and take council, but I am not sure I should." He looks distant as he obviously gathers his thoughts after the mammoth speech.

"I was just trying to fit in when I pointed to the writing. I didn't want you to look silly. I want you to help me in places like that please Med, in return you can be assured Pral will watch your back and protect you." The big friendly grin crosses his face and he puts a friendly arm about Med's shoulder and hugs him in a matey fashion, which nearly knocks the breath from Med! "I need breakfast! let's go and eat, even if I have to carry us both back to the inn. I'll make you a dragon-choker sandwich!"

Pral strides off down the trail, all the troubles in his world now erased; Med will advise him and explain things, Pral will protect Med. Easy, and therefore its time to eat.

Not many people would think that anyone would live in a world so simple, but not many had met Pral.

21 November, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Mediocrates

Matt: Med will attempt to memorize Enlarge while he keeps night watch in the temple courtyard. As for the unknown spell of Med's am I right at guessing it's Detect Magic?

Med weighs the options in his mind when the Oracle asks if there are any more questions of those gathered around the Oracle in the hours of early dawn. If he asks a question he may upset his employer. If he does not ask a question he may not find out valuable information about the beasts that attacked the locals outside of the Inn. Money and political favor on one hand. Saving lives of innocents on the other. Med shifts his weight from one knee to the other while kneeling on the stone, pondering what to do. He comes to the conclusion that his fellow adventurers can always climb 473 steps and ask questions of the Oracle at a later date. He patiently awaits the fortune telling spectacle, maybe he can determine if the Oracle is a fake.

After the prophecy ceremony Med will gather his things, and try to get some closer looks at Sir Nills hands. Are there any rings, gauntlets, etc.. that Med can see?

Pral

Pral watches the spectacle unfold around him. He considers his good fortune at having Med close by. Without him, Pral would have been lost in the ceremony, indeed even some of the words had confused him and he kept his eyes on Med and the others to know when to kneel, stand or sit. But now, the young girl, who had moments earlier had made her way to the dais asked if anyone wanted to ask a question. A cautious glance to Med shows he is deep in thought, Pral can not guess at what he is going to ask. A question springs unbidden into Pral's mind, one that has often troubled him and relating to his life-long ambition. But he holds his counsel and lets the moment pass. After all, the whereabouts of a fire-breathing dragon with a huge treasure hoard cannot be too difficult to find out if you ask the right people.

He watches the ceremony continue, happy to remain quiet and inside wishing he had stayed with Murton and carried on sleeping. On the bright side he considers; it'll be breakfast soon!

Talia

John: And there was me thinking Pral was going to ask where he could get a dragon-choker sandwich!

Mediocrates

Matt: I also was thinking something along those lines, HA! "How do you make the best dragon-choker sandwich in the history of the world?"

17 November, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Mediocrates

Med places his dagger and sack of darts against the foot of the bench carefully so that they will not spill over and make a mess. The hike up to the chapel was quite breathtaking, figuratively and literally. The skill that was used to create this place humbles Med as he removes his hat and mops his brow with a cloth. He looks at some of the ancient stonework and to a language likely long forgotten that is scattered among the beautifully carved stone. The beauty of the place stirs Med's faith. Tonight while on watch he will offer up a prayer to Leeta.

He has a seat on the bench with Pral and leans over and says to Pral, "After we dine and before bed I have need of your aid. I have a spell that I have been unable to discern it's effects. I will cast it and afterwards if you see anything different let me know. If you see nothing different you can try tossing a shoe or stone gently at me. Should that fail to discover anything I will try to speak to you or examine some of the old writings on these ancient halls. Hopefully, we can figure out what this spell does together. Then I will take first watch and study my spells as you rest. Fair enough Pral? So far it's been an easy way to earn our pay, do you think it will continue?"

Med reaches inside of his robe to make sure there are a cigar or two easily reachable for after dinner. Adventuring hasn't been too bad so far he thinks to himself, I haven't had to go days without a meal and I still get to enjoy my evening cigar.

Pral

Pral looks up at the sky, watching the clouds scudding past in the wind outside the sanctary he is now standing. He looks down and sees Med taking off his weapons and slumping to the bench. Pral was just beginning to enjoy the exertion of the climb up the stairs when they reached this placed. Pral removes the enormous broadsword and leans it against the wall. He takes the sweat stained leather bandolier of throwing axes from his broad chest and hangs it indelicately on a carved figure set in to a recess in the wall. The figure; its hands set in prayer and face locked upwards in search of either deliverance or redemption, gains nothing from the addition of the leather strap. If Pral has caused offence, he clearly knows nothing of it. Indeed he even fails to notice the figure of Aaron reach across and remove the item from the figure before it causes offence and place it at the foot of the broadsword.

Pral sees Med fumble within his robes and bring forth his cigar holder. He likes it when Med lights the aromatic leaves and smokes the cheroot, perhaps he'll do it now as he takes the vacant place on the bench next to Med. He listens as Med talks to him trying to understand all that he says, but knowing that most of it he will fail to remember in two minutes. As Med speaks, Pral regards the lines on the walls. He's been told in the past that lines on certain things can speak to you, but despite many hours staring at lines on paper, in dust and scratched on slate; no lines have ever spoken to Pral. He knows Med understands the lines and hears what they say though. Pral saw him with a sheet with lines on during the stop at the inn.

"It has been easy so far, much gold earned for little work" Pral regards the red-faced and sweating Med beside him "although perhaps Med deserves more money as he worked harder than Pral!" The smile creases his face easily and Med winces with the joke, feeling every word to be true in his aching body. "I cannot cast spells, but will help you with your magic." The familiar pause for sentence construction "You tell me what I need to do, I trust you and want to help." Then after a final pause for thought, "promise you said we do this 'after' food?"

15 November, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Pral

Pral leans against the large boulder and surveys the vista before him. The mountains are truely stunning and he wonders at how much of the world he has yet to see. The others in the party have dismounted and he watches them as the bossy woman shouts at people to do all sorts of jobs for her that Pral assumes she is perfectly capable of doing herself. But Med had mentioned gold and Pral like gold. It allowed him to buy lots of lovely food and drink.

Pral looked over at Med struggling with the mare; the poor horse was clearly scared of the smell of some beast or other, but Med had chosen a spot where its dung scattered across the gravel and rock to dismount and his horse was not happy. Pral stepped over and held the bridle and stroked the horses neck, calming it somewhat whilst Med finally got off. Pral liked Med, he was pleased that Med was doing the thinking for them and not making him talk or explain in front of the others.

Clegg, the man-at-arms, came over and gave Pral a small waxed oil cloth tied in a bundle. It was barely the size of his clenched fist and Pral started to experience the sinking feeling this was his meal! He untied the bundle and surveyed the meagre rations, not at all pleased at what he saw. Tentatively, he took a piece of jerki and began to chew on it, the firey, highly spiced flavours making his mouth tingle and salivate. Greedily he shoved the jerki in and chewed it vigorously until it was gone. The other items in the bundle did not match this first treat and soon he had eaten all.

The whole party had now dismounted and were pulling on boots. Pral looked around. The trail led on where no horse could go but the smell of the beast was unusual and something that Pral had never encountered before and its spoor was all about.

“Oh well,” he thought, that is what I do, fight things and protect my friends, and those that pay me. But mostly my friends.

The massive broadsword slid easily out of its scabbard, no point in checking the area unarmed."I'm going to look around, something lives near here" Pral says to Med. "I wont be long"

Ivan: Pral will only skirt the edge of the area to see what he can find or if there is any more indication of what beast lives near here.

Mediocrates

Med is careful to step around the scat on the ground as he walks about the impromptu campsite. The ride so far has been pleasant, especially since Med and his horse got to a sort of understanding. Med pauses next to the stable boy on his walk, sizing up the boy before speaking to him.

"You wouldn't happen to have any idea what type of creature left this mess here would you? Was it a grass eater or meat eater? How recent do you think these signs are?"

Med figures that someone who cleans up after animals on a daily basis might be able to guess what kind of animal was here. Leaving the horses tethered to become a tasty meal for some beast is a horrible thought to Med. Med catches his small sack of rations as Murton tosses them to him as he's getting his questions answered from the stable hand.

Just as the boy finishes speaking Pral announces he's going to have a quick look about Med looks over in his direction and with the information he gathered from his conversation with the stable hand he says to Pral, "Wait up, I'll join you." Med dances around the scat and gets shoulder to shoulder with Pral and informs him about what he learned from the stable hand. As well he lets him know that they were being followed by an armored figure that some of the locals call "Sir Nobody" and to keep his eyes out and be wary of such a figure as they do not know his intent.

Med makes sure he's got a dart in hand as the two of them have a quick look about.

1 November, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Mediocrates

Med nods to Thumbs his thanks and walks quickly to the table where Pral is finishing his second breakfast. He smiles to Pral, "I hope you are closed to finishing your meal. I have secured us a two day job guarding the Countess on her travels. Your skills in battle will earn you 30 gold should we get back here safe with the Countess. Talia and Elendil will spend the time we are gone searching for the beasts from last night. So quickly gather your things from your room and I will meet you out front of the inn within 10 minutes."

Med stands and notices his hands could use a good scrubbing before setting out on the journey, they still had a bit of tint from the beasts' blood even though he washed three times. "If you have the time, make yourself presentable to keep company with the Countess. I believe she favors you and your battle skills over my magics." With that Med gives Pral a smile and hurries up the steps.

At the top of the stair case he greets Elendil warmly, "I have received word that a cleric from the Harmonic Brotherhood should be arriving at the inn within the next few hours to tend to your wounds and to investigate the beasts we slayed last night. I do apologize for the damage that was done to your armor by my spell, I had never cast it on anyone else before. If you could follow me I will fill you in on what has transpired as well as give you my coins to cover some of the costs of the healing or repairs to your armor." Med hurries off to his room, fetches his coin purse and gives Elendil 15 of his remaining 20 gp as he stands against the door frame watching Med quickly but neatly fold his tattered robe from yesterday into his pack.

"Pral and I will be heading to the local Oracle with the Countess shortly. We should be back in 2 days, one day to the Oracle and one day back. Talia has likely left to perform her morning prayers and should be back shortly as well. She will need your help searching the neighboring woods for signs of these beasts. Her and I examined the beasts last night and I realize now that they had no navels. So those things were not likely born to a living being, meaning they were either hatched from an egg or created by magics. She will want to know that bit of information, it may help in tracking them down. If we aren't back in 2 days please do come after us and do keep yourselves safe! We will meet you back here in two days."

Med gives the room a quick scan as he does one last check of his backpack to make sure that his spell tablets are safely wrapped by plenty of clothing so there's no chance for them to break. He places the bag on his back, grabs his hat and pauses to flash a smile at Elendil, "The priest will not likely ask a fee for his healing services, a donation is proper and something in the neighborhood of 50 gold will do I am told. Pral and I are earning a few coins for protecting the Countess, my share is all yours should you need it. If you and Talia do meet with the local elves you will have to tell me all about it when we next meet."

Med washes his face and hands quickly in the rooms wash basin before drying off and heading out the door of the room and out of the inn. "Take care Elendil, Pral and I will see you and Talia in a few short days." Pulling his hat lower over his face to shield his eyes from the sun outside Med heads out the door to find the tamer of the two horses for the journey before Pral got his pick.

Pral

Pral wakes feeling rested and ready for the day ahead, whatever it may hold. He gathers his meagre belongings and packs them into his backpack before making his way downstairs to the main hall. Seeing none of his friends he takes a seat at one of the broad oak tables and toys with some cutlery until a serving lad wanders past on his way back to the kitchen. A giant hand on the lads chest stops him dead as if he had run in to a wall! "Big breakfast please? Two of everything?" The lad looks at Pral, nodding rapidly before twisting round the hand and muscled forearm and sprinting towards the kitchen.

Minutes later, Pral is happily shovelling the morsels down his neck when Med enters the room. Pral listens and is pleased that he will earn gold as a guard to the countess, although he doesn't tell Med he doesn't know who she is. Pral is sure that Med will be back to tell him what to do. He watches Med go up the stairs and decides he has enough time to finish his food and sup the flagon of sweet tasting apple juice and maybe some more bread and honey!

This done Pral gathers his pack and goes to the stables. There he sees Med, seemingly struggling with a docile looking small swayback mare. Next to it stands a sixteen hands high stallion with foam flecked lips and wild eyes.

Pral strides up to the beast takes the bridle to hold its head still and looks deep into its eyes. The horse, having no choice looks back for a moment or two before nervously shifting its hooves in the dust. Pral pats it on the neck a few times and whispers something in its ear before adjusting the cinch and leaping easily into the saddle.

"I like horses," he says as he sees Med’s astonished face. "They like me too." Pral’s horse now has its head down and is rooting in the dust for spilt grains whilst Med’s nag is skittish and nervously pacing around. "You lead Med. I will do as you say." Pral sits atop the horse and smiles at Med.

Elendil

Elendil accepted the gold with a tinge of embarassment. "Thank you, uh, Med," he stuttered, he didn't know how familiar to be yet. It seemed that fighting together made brothers quickly out of strangers.

"I will try to locate Talia, she just disappears when she steps out into the wild. I will await the priest of the Harmonic Brotherhood." His eyes widened at the thought of 50 gold. That was more than he had ever held in his hand or seen in his life.

"Safe journeys. Watch yourself with the Countess, I think she sees other people only as things to use for her betterment, if there is any danger she will not think twice about sacrificing you or Pral."

Seeing Med off with a wave, Elendil winced as he turned to go look for Talia.

Talia

Arriving as Med and Pral prepare to leave, her hair shining with morning dew as if nature had placed a thousand diamonds there, there is a fierce light in Talia's eyes, and once again it seems she is more part of the wild than the world of men. But then, blinking, she grins at her new friends, and some of the wildness dissipates, or at least, mingles and combines with something more nearly human.

Moving without fear to Pral's mount, she murmurs something in the stallion's ear, and he tosses his head and nods as she carresses his flank.

"Just telling him to keep your safe," she tells Pral with a smile.

Assuming that they have a moment of privacy, she tells the others that she has found what looks to be the start of the creatures' trail, and intends to follow it. At which point the head of a large snake protrudes somewhat sleepily from under her tunic, and she strokes it absently. "With help, that is. Elendil, you are welcome to join me, but if you would rather rest here for the day, then that is fine. I promise not to do anything foolish." She considers a moment. "Well, nothing too foolish, anyway."

Mediocrates

Finally getting atop his horse Med adjusts his hat and picks a piece of straw off of his sleeve. The reason he didn't arrive at the inn with a horse or mule wasn't that he couldn't ride, it's just that Med and horses were never really comfortable around each other. With a sheepish smile Med says to his new friends a bit embarrassed, "Could one of you whisper something to my horse to get it to behave for the ride? I seem to have gotten one with a mind of it's own yet again."

The horse had started heading for the grains on the ground, it was more interested in eating then in doing what it's rider wanted. With a shrug and a confused look on his face Med hoped for some aid or for the horse to decide that it was time to follow it's friends to see the Oracle. "Talia, we are escorting the Countess to the Oracle. We will keep our eyes out for signs of the beasts during our travels and should be back in two days." Looking down at his horse and thinking for a moment, he chuckles and says, "Maybe three."

Here ends Chapter One.

28 October, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Talia

[To Med before the 'night' turn, if that's all right.] "Your going to the Oracle while I spend the day hunting the creatures seems a fine idea to me. I will be gone before dawn, but will hopefully return to the inn before you leave. If you are already gone, however, I will meet you here again tomorrow night."

John: Hopefully splitting up won't cause you too much of a headache, but if it will, say the word and we'll keep together instead!

Mediocrates

Matt: Did the beasts have belly buttons/navels? This would indicate to Med that they were born if they had them or created/hatched if they didn't.

If my idea to split the party up to cover two objectives is too much work feel free to steer us along the proper course.

Since it took such a short amount of time for Med to memorize his "unknown" spell is it possible for him to cast it and re-learn Enlarge before they set off for the day's adventures?

Med turns to look back down the hallway at the parties rooms. Then with a small sigh Med resigns himself to the fact that he's going to have to speak to someone outside of his small circle of friends and he turns back around and heads down the steps to the main floor of the inn.

On his way to speak with the Countess's steward he straightens a chair that was sticking out from one of the tables on the floor. Med clears his throat softly behind a clenched fist before addressing the steward.

"Excuse me good sir, sorry to interrupt your conversation with Thumbs. We overheard last night that you and the Countess were planning on traveling to see the Oracle today. The events that transpired last night are certainly troubling to everyone here, even the guests. If the Countess would be in need of additional protection to make her journey today I would gladly offer up my party’s services for a very small fee and a small future boon from the Countess."

Pral

Pral is happy to stand the first guard. Despite his best efforts at willing more of the creatures to attack during his shift, he is disappointed when his relief takes over. But then he is happy to sleep and dream of adventure, large sandwiches and understanding half of what his friends are talking about.

He awakes well rested and has an urging to be out and adventuring but only after a large breakfast. As he enjoys the food he wonders idly where the woman with the wild hair is? And who the other clever chap is talking to.

26 October, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Mediocrates

With Talia's acceptance Med carefully examines the creature's hands, claws, mouths, teeth, feet, limbs, and eyes. Do they have any hair or are they completely hairless? Are there any marks or tattoo's besides the wounds on the bodies?

Med will not dig inside of the wounds but if he's able to look around inside of the bodies without much effort he will snoop to see if the insides are similar to normal animals. He will describe anything of interest that he notices to Talia for her input.

After investigating the corpses, Med stands and motions for the three of them to head back to the Inn. In response to Talia's question about the plans for tomorrow Med offers up the following.

"While Pral and I were fetching the ales before these creatures attacked we overheard that Countess Grau is staying at the Inn and has plans to travel tomorrow to see a local Oracle. They may be in need of some additional protection and we could use the coins and political favor of the Countess. That would also give us a chance to become more familiar with the area and possibly search for more signs of these creatures."

Stopping at the front steps, Med stomps his feet a few times to knock off dirt before heading to the front door.

"Someone should check on Elendil while the others try to speak with Countess Grau or her steward about employment. Elendil's armor was damaged unexpectedly by my magic earlier, it may need some repairs. Perhaps there is someone here that can do that while we rest and wait for dawn. I will gladly pay for them with the coins I have left."

Talia

[To Med] "Personally, I'd rather we head out on our own. The animals who might aid me in finding the creatures' trail will be frightened by a larger party. And I certainly have no desire to earn coin or political favour, when these creatures must be hunted down and killed before they cause more trouble."

Pral

Pral watches Med examine the bodies with great interest. Although it is clear from his expression he does fully understand what's being said about the creatures its clear he is pleased to be allowed to watch. He strides alongside the others back to the inn, offering no opinion on what to do when the sun rises, but clearly proud he is included and part of the party.

At the inn he will offer no council but allow others to do the deciding.

Mediocrates

"I agree with you Talia, these dangerous creatures should be stopped before they wreak more havok. After all, we have yet to determine if there is a job to even apply for. Should there be no job to apply for I think we should hunt down these creatures and their cause."

Med finishes walking up the steps of the inn. Before reaching for the door he pauses and turns after a thought had occurred to him.

"However, a leisurely day trip to the Oracle would allow Elendil and you to scour the countryside for signs of the beasts while Pral and I were left to languish in the company of the Countess. If something should befall the Countess on her travels to the Oracle, there will likely be a military response. I wonder how many of the local animals would be hunted to feed an army searching for these creatures..."

Med turns back to the doors of the inn. "Speaking of food, I'm hungry. Pral, what's in a dragon-choker sandwich?"

Pral

Pral smiles his endearing grin towards Med and then turns to regard the others, it's clear Pral doesn't get asked many questions and is relishing the attention.

"It’s a loaf of bread with the soft stuff scooped out and then filled with cheese and meats and pickles and sausage and... and whatever you like to eat! And then, cause its like nearly a foot square", again the smile as bright as the midday sun at all who are listening, "it's big enough to choke a dragon!!"

Pral laughs with such depth it sounds like an explosion deep underground. "Geddit? Dragon choker? I eat 'em all the time"

He smiles and seems lost in thought no doubt of past sandwiches he has enjoyed.

25 October, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Pral

Ivan: Pral will be guided by the rest of the party. He will gladly volunteer to stand guard at the inn all night if required. He will collect his shield before leaving for anywhere else though.

Pral leans towards Talia "I will glady stand guard if you and the others want to rest. I will help where I can and protect us all" a huge smile starts across his face "of course I always guard best with an ale and a dragon-choker sandwich!" The smile almost lights up the night as the huge man picks up his sword and strides off determinedly towards the inn.

Mediocrates

As the crowd begins to head back to the safety of the inn Med, softly clears his throat and speaks to everyone. Some in the crowd turn back to look in his direction while others seem to walk faster to get inside.

"Elendil, you should go inside and have your wounds tended to as Thumbs suggests. Talia, Pral and I will be in shortly after we inspect our fallen foes. Maybe a closer look will provide us with some answers to our many questions."

"Leave us with a couple of the torches we will not be long." Med says to Thumbs, not looking him in the eye instead focusing his gaze above Thumbs' head. Med found it easier to talk in public to people if he didn't look them in the eye, it was less intimidating to him.

Once the crowd disperses and heads for the inn Med takes his torch and heads over to the corpses of the beasts. Are all 4 bodies the same species or is the one Med and Elendil chased different? Quietly he speaks to Talia and Pral so that no one else may hear as they gather around the bodies of the beasts that Pral and Talia felled.

"The beast we chased and dispatched switched how it ran, from being upright on two legs to being on all fours. It ripped off Sam's arm with it's teeth and hands, carried it in it's mouth like a dog would a prized bone. The damage it did to Elendil was by attacking with it's hands. Is that how they attacked you as well?"

Med bends closer to the bodies, but before touching them he actually looks up at Talia and asks. "Talia, I do not wish to offend the gods by examining the bodies. Do you have any objection should I look at their eyes, hands, teeth, muscles, and wounds? Maybe we can determine if they live underground, in trees, or underwater by taking a closer look. With your knowledge of the natural world we might solve a few of our riddles."

Matt: Beyond examining the creatures and maybe talking to Countess Grau's steward to see if they might need some additional protection on their journey the next day, Med plans to study his unknown spell and get some rest. Maybe with the help of his new found friends he can figure out what it does besides make him feel funny for a while. Enlarge doesn't seem to be too useful at the moment. Can anyone think of how we can best make use of it? The only thing I can think of is to cast the reverse of it on an enemy.

Talia

[To Pral] Talia smiles at Pral, putting a brief hand to his arm.

"I'm sure we can all rest safe if you're guarding us, my friend. But we should all take turns to watch and to sleep, for I reckon as tomorrow we'll be heading into the wilds. Thank the gods."

[To Med] Bending over the bodies of the creatures with Med, Talia fails to hide her disgust at what she sees.

"More like beasts than men, yes," she murmurs. "But more base than either. The flame that animated them was not gifted to them by nature; they are unnatural, a curse on the land, that much Leeta has made known to me. So please, go ahead, do whatever you wish with them - the gods of nature, at least, shall not be offended.

"As to the spell you cast - it was a spell, I take it? - I think I may have a use for that. The animals of the wild are my friends, and oft-times my travelling companions alike. They have no need of clothes to hide themselves, and so would not suffer Elendil's troubles should you increase their size. When we head out into the wild, I will call on nature and see who responds."

[To Elendil] If Elendil arrives to look at the bodies, Talia glances up at him. "I only know of elves from rumours and dreams," she murmurs. "But unless all we know of them is false, then these creatures are no elves. It feels to me as if they should own some harsher name, though I could not say what it is. What say you, who claim knowledge of elves?"

[To All] "Whilst we have not said as much, can I take it that we plan to follow the trail of these creatures, and see where it takes us? I, for one, must seek them out, and end their corruption. If so, I suggest take turns on guard tonight, and head out on the morrow."

John: Whilst spurning the offer of a bath, Talia will spend the night in the inn with her new companions, rather than risk being attacked alone. Come the morning, she will rise before dawn, tell her companions she will be back in two hours, then head out beyond the inn to offer up a prayer to nature. She will also cast Animal Friendship, hoping to attract an animal who may have seen the creatures, and where they went. I believe this takes an hour to cast. She might also have to use Speak with Animals, but she'll hold off casting that unless she can't make herself understood otherwise. Anything further will probably have to wait on what turns up, if anything, before preparing to set out

Elendil

Ivan: Pral will be guided by the rest of the party. He will gladly volunteer to stand guard at the inn all night if required. He will collect his shield before leaving for anywhere else though.

Elendil nods. He does what he can to bind his own wounds and waits for someone that can finish the job for him.

He draws the three obsidian arrowheads from his pouch. He stares a long at them, remembering that fateful day.

"They're close..." he mutters, "very close... Soon." He collapses in a chair, hoping someone will come to help him. He sleeps the rest of the night. In the morning, he will see about finding new armor and any other supplies he might need to continue his quest.

21 October, 2011

New Reader? Start at the beginning.

Elendil

Elendil staggers in. "Nature defending herself, my ass...", he mutters.

He drags himself over to Thumbs. "I need whatever ya got for bandages. That mushroom concoction ain't the best to drink, but it will probably knit these gashes up pretty good. They're on fire, I need somethin' to put the fire out..."

Talia

If Med looks as if it is about to speak for them, then she will let him. Otherwise, she shrugs.

"Not sure we know much more than you. Less, perhaps. We heard cries for help, and came on these creatures attacking both this man and, ah, someone by the name of Sam. Seemed only right that we help out. I've never seen these creatures before," she pauses to spit in their direction, "but I know for certain that they aren't born of nature. Anyone else know what they might be? And more importantly, what they wanted, and whether there are more of them..."

Pral

As the crowds gather Pral stands proudly next to the corpses as the locals point and stare. But when Thumbs steps forwards and asks questions Pral deliberately shuffles sideways somewhat and ensures Talia is between him and Thumbs. "You answer him. I'm not good at explaining"

Mediocrates

Med nods after Talia finishes her say, still worn out from dragging the corpse back. If only he had Pral's strength it would have been so much easier. Wiping sweat from his brow he responds still a little out of breath.

"The creature that Elendil killed and I dragged back was heading up the road toward the Collar. Is anyone familiar with what is or is rumored to be in that direction?"

19 October, 2011

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Mediocrates

Med takes a deep breath to settle himself, the rush of combat is a bit addictive he thinks to himself. He hurries to Elendil's side and checks to see that he's still breathing. If Elendil is conscious and able to move Med will attempt to bind and bandage his wounds using pieces of his robe. Good thing he bought 2 in town!

He will give the creature a once over check for any treasure and to possibly retrieve his darts. Med hopes that they haven't drawn any unwanted notice from the other denizens of the area and that they can walk back to the inn.

If Elendil is able to make his way on his own Med will try dragging the dead creature by it's legs back to the inn. If Elendil needs assistance Med will help him back before leading some folks back to retrieve the creature's corpse.

Matt: So the enlarge spell only works on the receiver's body and not any clothing, armor - normal or magical? So after the spell is cast it's sort of like the Incredible Hulk and all you'll be left with after it wears off is a pair of torn jeans and a demolished town?

Elendil

Elendil's mind reels: The slashing claws, biting fangs, stabbing, missing, then growing several feet in height while wearing studded leather armor that did not grow. He collapsed to the ground, the darkness closing in around him. He struggled to keep it at bay. Turning his head slightly, he saw the, now tiny wizard that had helped him.

"Thank you sir." Then, in a moment, "Thank you Med... I think you saved my life. I think we killed this one, but there's still the matter of the other creatures over by Pral and Talia."

Breathing shallowly he tries to focus past the pain and remain conscious.

Talia

Talia runs up to the entangled focus of their rescue attempts. In passing, she grins apologetically at Pral.

Then, putting away her sling and taking out her knife, she first checks that all the creatures are dead, and, if they are not, finishes the job with a knife to the throat. After which, turning to the trapped man, she cuts him free, helping him to his feet.

"So," she asks him. "What in Leeta's name were those things, and what did they want with you?"

John: Do I need to keep track of sling stones used, or is it safe to assume a steady supply of them, as long as we aren't in a dungeon?

Pral

Pral looks around at the bodies strewn before him and the beginnings of a smile creases his face. He looks to his colleagues especially Talia.

"We did good. Killed the nasty grunts. So long as you keep missing Pral you keep fighting like that. You made the grass grab 'em, I liked that."

He regards the bodies and carries out a quick search of them. He drags the corpses so they're side by side, showing little compassion for the foes that moments before were living and breathing creatures. "What do we do now?" he asks looking to those around him before casting a wistful glance back to ale he left on the table at the inn.

Mediocrates

Matt: It sounds like Med and Elendil will try to make their way to the inn with the corpse in tow if possible. The main reason for that is to have Talia or the locals identify what they were fighting. Hopefully Elendil will not experience any ill effects from his first battle/contact with the denizens of the area.

A bit of a misunderstanding of how to integrate the "gods" portion of the game appears to need some work. Do the characters whose roles do not have a particular need to pray really have a reason to be contacting them? I was thinking of having Med say a thanks to the goddess of magic.