The Forgotten God (Table 1) (Inactive)

Game Master Rednal

As the red skinned man works to soak Hadran's clothes he suddenly reaches up and grasp the man at the shoulder. His eyes open for a moment, but still seemed to be rolled back into his head. He lets out with a whisper. What are you??? Hadran then shakes and convulses a moment before falling back to the ground unconscious again.

It doesn't take very long for the villagers to bring out the necessary supplies - they aren't very far at all from the desert lands, after all, and dealing with problems caused by the heat is something they're quite familiar with. Several of the villagers soon join in the task of tending to the patient, though a few others (mostly keeping out of the way) are looking slightly nervous at the rapid use of magic.

A rather largish fellow joined Orithos in carrying the man under a shady tree. Civilians brought a few towels, both large and small, along with two large bowls, whereupon the holy man went to work.

Placing the large sheets in layers upon the victim, Orithos then began casting water over him so that the coolness would drench the towels, and seep through to cool the man below. Working quickly, he filled one of the bowls with water, drenched one of the small cloths in the bowl, and then placed the cloth over the man's hair and brow. Next, he took another small cloth, drenched it in the same bowl, and then placed over the man's neck.

Once the man had been fully covered in damp clothes and towels, Orithos, out of instinct, reached within himself, placed both hands on the man's chest, and let energy flow out of him.

To everyone else's perspective, this fiery haired man was radiating light, similar to a torch, but as they felt it, their minor wounds or cuts seemed to disappear on the spot.

Orithos used Channel Energy (Positive) to heal. He will continue to do this until he either runs out of uses, or the man awakes.

Channel Energy: 1d6 ⇒ 1

As Hadran falls back into his nightmarish sleep, he hears voices from the outside. It seem he has caused a commotion. As the fiery haired men and the town folk work to cool him down his visions start to fade. Eventually the voices are louder, clearer than before. Then he sees a light. It washes over him. He feels the goodness in it fill his body. As he follows the light his eyes open. He looks up at the man over him. He blinks; keeping his eyes closed a moment. His eyes slowly open again. They remain squinting as if the light in the shade is even too much.

You, you helped me. Thank you. The sun must of got the best of me. I used the last of my water this morning. So it was make it here or die. Thank you again.

Hadran realizes he is still lying on the ground. The water has cooled his body and his strength has started to return. He sits up, but leans against the tree still. He takes small sips from his now full waterskin.

So where or what is this place? Oh sorry forgive my rudeness. I am Hadran, and who may you be? Looking to the fiery haired man.

"This place? Well, it's a village. Where it is? I honestly have no clue. My name is Orithos, and if it hadn't been for you, I fear I would have been left to the same fate as you just now. Additionally, these folk, as a result of my appearance, are rather shy when giving their names for none of them have told me what to call them. I do not judge them, though, for look at me. I'm a flaming man who springs water from his hands and heals with the warmth of the sun.

Sighing to himself, the fiery one could feel the concerns and fear of the villagers eyes on his back.

"I apologize," Orithos said rather ineffectually. "I have my own conundrum to deal with, but we shall not discuss it at this moment. If I may ask, this," waving his hands in the direction Hadran had traveled from, "environ seems rather desolate and lacking distinction. How did you know to come here?"

Channel Energy: 1d6 ⇒ 2

It seems it was chance, or maybe fate that brought me here. I was wondering the desert when I came upon a man half buried in the sand. A sandstorm had just passed, so perhaps he was unprepared. Upon inspection I found him clutching this map. He hold the map up for others to see.
A sense motive would reveal he is probably not lying, but leaving out bits of truth.

I did a quick survey and thought I may have just enough supplies to make it here. It seems I was right, well sort of. I fear I would not have made it if not for your quick action. Orithos, you have my thanks. I must say there is something unique about you. I’m not sure what it is. So you are in a conundrum are you? It is only right that I offer my help as you have helped me. Tell me what I can do for you.

Exultation flowed through him as Hadran continued to gain his health back. "The only assistance I need is in figuring out where I am, and why I am here. You see that temple back there?" Orithos pointed to the structure he'd come out of, and the stone slab that had split in two when he pushed his way out. "That is my origin and I possess no prior knowledge before that event."

That is an interesting story indeed. You say you just awakened inside that tomb?

He couldn’t be, I mean no he couldn’t be the same as me… Could he? Why no memories? Maybe his path is not redemption. I need to know more about him.

Strange you don’t have any memories. You must of wronged some bad people to be sealed up in there alive. So you have no idea how long you were in there? Maybe we should find a place to talk in private. Is there an elder or someone that presides over this place? You seem like a good man. I am walking a path of redemption. I would like to help you find your answers if you would let me.

With this Hadran gathers his strength to stand. Waiting to go somewhere away from so many sets of ears.

Laughing at the use of "wronged", Orithos grasped Hadran's hand and levered him up. "I do not think it was a wrongdoing that sent me here. More a...oh, I don't know, but that is far from the present, and I know of a man who might be able to assist you. Follow me."

The fiery one began leisurely walking towards the Elder's hut, observing how the crowd seemed to part at his passing.

Yes, but you have no memories so you can’t be certain. You don’t seem like a bad fellow though. So this elder he has answers for us? I will go speak with him with you.

Hadran follows Orithos into the small hut.

The Elder's place within the larger building behind the stage is a surprisingly simple area. Several shelves line the walls, and a locked chest sits near the back of the room - likely where important documents are kept, especially after the earlier accusations. It seems like the elder is still dealing with the aftermath of the day's events, but he should be back soon, ready to answer any questions you might have.

Well Orithos, now that we have a moment alone. Your story and the fact that you help me has lead me to trust you, at least for now. I too awoke in a tomb, but I was in the desert and awoke to a cult of Rovagug performing dark magic over me. I slayed two of them, one died trying to escape into the desert. He clutched this map so I presume he was trying to make it here. I left the leader in the tomb, he refused to help or come with me. I am not sure where he may have gone, but he may show up here. There may be more of the cult here, but that is uncertain. If there is a cabal of cultist here then this village is in great danger. They may all already be enslaved. So watch what words you share with the elder.

Hadran has a seat and waits for the elder.

Taking a seat as well, Orithos replied, "I do not know who this Rovagug is, but I do not believe anyone in this village would worship such a thing. Besides, when I awoke from within the temple, they were asking for justice, not dark magics. I highly doubt they would even consider dark magic as part of their culture. When I showed them the basic means of detecting it, a good majority of them cringed away. The others who were curious wouldn't even put a finger in the casting area. In any case, I'm sure the Elder would know of such things if they did exist in this village."

Orithos continues to wait as well.

The wait takes several more minutes, but the elder finally arrives within the hall, looking more brisk and relaxed than he had been outside. This was his environment, after all, and he didn't have the entire village staring at him anymore. "All right!" he said cheerfully. "I believe you had a few more questions?" he asked Orithos as he took a seat behind his solid, well-used desk. He seemed quite cooperative at the moment - but then, Orithos had helped to settle a major headache for the village in a way that seemed to make most people happy enough, so a few feelings of gratitude weren't actually that surprising...

Hadran sits quietly. He listens to what the old man has to say and then waits for Orihos to speak.

Best not to give to much information here. Lets see what he knows. I will let Orithos speak first then maybe we will talk about the man in the sand. Yes I can tell the same story as I came upon his body and found this map. I only wish to let the mans family know. That will do.

He sits patiently and quietly still slowly drinking water.

At the elder's entrance, Orithos became more nervous than he'd thought he would be. Though he seemed to be in his prime, he was not of this world, of that much he could tell, and asking someone about their world might make them fearful of the worlds beyond their own; especially when the one they speak to has flaming hair that doesn't light flammables on fire.

"It seems my questions will only bring about more questions than actual answers, but if I'm to get answers in the first place, I best ask them. Where am I, to be exact? How did this village come about? And lastly, what was it that you were praying to out by the temple?"

"You're on the most northern edge of Qadira." the elder said, standing up and moving over to the wall. A few moments later, he opened a wide map and unfurled it, pointing to a small 'X' that had been marked on it. "Actually, we don't have very many dealings with any of the major governments, since we're not near any of the major trade routes. As far as they're concerned, we're just not worth their time." He didn't seem to think this was a bad thing. "As for the settlement... easily enough. One family settled here and started to build it up, then invited some more... we've grown slowly but steadily to our present size, mostly based on the amount of fresh water we could draw to support everyone. The statue..." He did seem a bit perturbed about that one, still. "Well, it was just a statue, really. We dedicated it to Iomedae in the hope that she would help us always achieve true justice, and... well, I suppose it worked." he smiled slightly, looking at Orithos. "Sent by the Goddess or not, you did help us resolve the most serious problem we've had in many years."

Iomedae? God of Justice? Interesting. Could others have risen in my absence? How much could have changed? How long did I slumber?

Sir what of the Dawnflower, Sarenrae? Do any worship her?

I also need to show you this. He stands and gives the elder the map

I found a man while I was wondering the desert. He had been buried by a sandstorm. He was clutching this, so I thought it be best I head here as he may have family to notify.

You guys can go ahead and post.

The elder laughed at the question. "Sarenrae? Of course, of course - where have you been? She's easily one of the most popular goddesses among normal folk like us." One thing that many people forgot was that the average citizen would usually be reasonably associated with several different deities all at the same time. Those who chose to enter the service of a church were much stricter about their standards, but it was hardly uncommon for people to praise every deity whose personality impacted their life. The elder's expression turned more serious a moment later as he examined the map. Calmly, he ran a finger along the edge of the area marked as a desert. "I don't think we had anyone out there..." he mused, moving his finger back and gesturing towards a fairly wide swath of land - including the mark of the village. "We're the only settlement in this area. If someone was coming this direction, our village is the natural place for them to come to in order to get more supplies and such. Buried by a sandstorm, you say? Most unfortunate... it sounds like he almost made it, but the desert is never to be trifled with." He nodded sadly.

I gave him as proper of ceremony and burial as I could. If not for finding him and the map I would have been lost out there as well. Where is the closest city to here? If he was heading here to pass through and resupply, where did he come from? I would like to go there and let his family know what happened if you can help.

The elder moved his hand down the map, tapping a mark quite some ways across the desert. "Anyone crossing the desert would almost certainly have started here in Katheer." he said, seeming quite confident. "There are always a few nomads wandering around, but their movements aren't reliable enough for anyone traveling through the sands, and they don't like being any closer to Taldor than they can really help."

Katheer huh? Is this a large city, or just another village? How long would the journey take on foot? I would like to go there. What about you Orithos what are your plans?

Well, you couldn't expect people to know every city. "Katheer is the capital city of Qadria. Large is an... understatement." he noted. "Getting there on foot from here would be dangerous, but if you crossed the sands, you could make it in about two weeks. If you wanted to play it safe, it would take quite a lot longer, but you could strike out west instead and look for a ship to carry you there. I'd expect at least a month or two of travel time if you went that way."

My survival skills don't seem to be what they used to be. I feel lucky to have survived the desert once. I think it best to play it safe. The long way with a boat ride would be nice. Thank you elder for answering my questions. If I may rest here for the night, I will b on my way in the morning. If I coule trouble you to fill up on some water, I can gather food as I go. I ask again Orithos. Will you be joining me or staying here in the village?

What Hadran had spoken about privately to Orithos previously, and what he had just explained to the Elder conflicted with his ethos. Inwardly, he believed that if someone of dangerous ambitions was among civilians, you let the leaders know so that they can properly address the situation. If they are not able to, then you provide assistance. Still, the amount of want Orithos had to solve the issue of the cult did not matter, for Hadran had his own wishes, and one cannot deter a man from his goals.

Turning to the fellow beside him, Orithos replied, "I shall join you, but I wish to state something to our Elder. He is most reliable, as he has proven that to me, and I very much wish to assist him one last time."

Orithos pondered for a moment how he would address the issue, since, if he presented it forthwith, assumptions and accusations might sow chaos, yet if Orithos said nothing, the village might be in danger. Rising his head after coming to a conclusion, Orithos said, "if ever there is a conflict that threatens to destroy your village, send word for the justice of flame, and I will come to your aid. I can't say how long I will take, for I might have to cross leagues in order to arrive here, but I swear upon the breath I breath that I will come if you need me."

Orithos resigned himself to the idea that one cannot fix a problem if addressing the issue might bring more harm.

"A very kind offer." the Elder said, smiling. "I don't think you'll have much to worry about, though. This has always been a peaceful region, simply because it's so inconvenient to get to. As for resting..." he nodded to Hadran. "Of course! We do have a few rooms that are kept neat for the occasional travelers, and though you might want to ask your friend for the water. Our own may not be so good after a few days away from its purification."

I see. Thank you for your time and answers. I hope you are right about the man I found. Orithos if you are done let us go and get some rest. The elder knows where to find us if we are needed before we leave.

Hadran stands ready to be shown to where he can rest.

Rising up to stand beside Hadran, Orithos nodded to his companion, and replied to both, "That is true. Let us prepare for our journey. Time awaits. Although, I must ask." Voicing to the Elder, he said, "Where would you prefer we sleep? We do not have a hut or home within the village. Additionally, if you so wish, I can still help in repairing the statue of Iomedae. There is but one spell I know that can mend the cracks and broken portions."

"Nah, we've got other ways of doing it. Best to get a new one all proper-like anyway." the Elder says, chuckling. "She might get a bit mad if we don't. There's a building two doors down, to your left; the lady there will let you have some rooms."

If you're both ready, we can proceed to the next day and get you ready to go. If not, feel free to continue RP'ing. ^^

I'm okay with skipping.

Hadran needs to get a better feel for Orithos, I know what I am and have my memories. He does not :) So it should make for a good RP dynamic as we learn about each other, but for now I'm good moving on as well.

The rooms given to you were comfortable enough, located as part of a set run by a matronly woman. The village doesn't get a very high number of guests, but are were enough to warrant having several rooms available (if a bit dusty), and the beds are reasonably comfortable. The day dawns bright and early, and quite a few people have gathered around the well - apparently, they wanted to see how those enchanted berries have been used to purify their water all this time. Aside from that, however, it doesn't take very long to get the directions for where you'll need to go. Unless you have any last-minute preparations or anything else you'd like to do, it seems you're ready to go.

As long as we have some food and Orithos can make water we will head out into the desert.

Hadran wraps his body again preparing for the journey.

Orithos if you would be so kind to keep us wet it may help keep us cooler as well. Shall we go then?

Seeing as the village already lacked a lot of necessities that came to mind, Orithos kept mostly to himself when thinking about what he might need for travel. He figured the next town might have opportunities for work, or at least something to get him started for his pockets held no wealth, and he was lacking a physical manner of defense other than his fists.

After saying his 'thank you's and 'fare thee wells', Orithos turned to Hadran, and replied, "I can keep the spell going for as long as needed. Here, if you have any empty waterskins, I can put water in them. If not, I can cover us in a cloud of rain for a bit. That should allow for some protection from the sun for a bit."

Create Water may not be the most powerful spell ever cast within the world, but it's the little things in life that make living so much easier. In fact, as some scholars have pointed out, that particular spell is responsible for much of the power that many cultures living in harsher environments possess. With guidance from the elder, however, you're able to begin the journey into the desert and towards the city of Katheer.

I'm assuming you are constantly taking 10 on Survival for the journey - your scores are high enough to avoid getting lost during the trip.

They say that a man won't know the size of the desert until he crosses it, but days of sand, rocks, and only the occasional bit of desert life are bad enough... and this is only a very small portion of the desert that makes up the nation. However, you do eventually reach the banks of a wide river, and the maps note that this will lead you straight to the city. Following along the river is simple enough, and your first sign of the city is the collection of masts rising from ships going in and out of the harbors. "Large" is a bit of an understatement to describe the city - Huge would be a better choice, and you can see a long line of people outside one of the gates. There seems to be a problem of some kind - a man up front is arguing vigorously with two of the city's guards.

I didn't even know I could take a 10. I'm so used to just rolling and seeing how it goes since my DM doesn't really use that rule.

Sighing with remembered frustration, Orithos found himself, once more, in the hands of fate, yet, this time, it seemed fate would rather stress him to death. Shaking a bit of the soreness from the long walk out of his limbs, the exotically clothed man knew it better to start somewhere.

"I had to deal with diplomacy back in the village. Would you prefer I try my hand once more, or do you want a go?"

I am not aware of any customs of the locals. Though this situation does appear to be holding everyone up. Lets go find out whats going on and play it by ear shall we?

Hadran pats Orithos on the shoulder as they move forward to the disturbance.

Greetings to you. What is the problem here. There are many people waiting to enter the city. Can we assist in some way?

If something is meant to be a specific challenge or risk, I'll generally have you roll. ^^ If it's just travel, though, even through the wilderness... well, there are only so many days of doing little that people can stand, and I'm trying to keep those to a minimum.

"Oh, there's a problem, all right. They're trying to move their whole village in!" one of the guards said, indicating the line. "Say they're all frightened of something to do with that old fort near their home."

The man who'd been arguing with the guards when you approached swelled up indignantly. "Now see here, you can't expect us to just stay there and risk our lives! At least let us in so we can present our case to Satrap Xerbystes!" Those in the line who could hear made their emphatic support of this position quite clear, and it took several moments for the guards to get them to be quiet again.

"The Satrap is a busy man. He has more to do than deal with the concerns of every little village just because they're a bit scared and won't solve their own problems!" he turned back, sighing as he speaks to you once more. "Sorry, but the gates are shut until these people leave."

Stepping forward, Orithos stated, "Look, my companion and I realize that you folk wouldn't have left your home if you did not feel endangered. Additionally, this city already has issues of its own, and adding refugees to the chaos would disrupt the city's way of life even more. So, let's discuss the situation."

Addressing the man who was arguing with guards, the fiery one said, "My name is Orithos, and my companion is Hadran. We are travelers proficient in a bit of battle, so, we might be able to assist you in the matter of this fort. What goes on there, and why does it threaten you all?

Hadran stares at the guard as Orithos speaks. He speaks up after Orithos.

Your lack of compassion for these people is unsettling. You could at least allowed a small group in to look for help in such a large place. I don't know what this Satrap is, but if he is some sort of ruler then he should help his people. My friend and I here will take it upon ourselves to do his duty. When we return I expect no trouble entering the city.

He then looks to the man from the village.

Fate has smiled upon you this day friend. Allow us to escort you home. Once there we will make it safe for you and your people again. You showed courage in trying to protect your people. Now that gods will reward you. Let us leave this place that looks down upon there fellow man.

The Guard snorted slightly. "The desert only has so much to give. It's easy to spout morals when you aren't responsible for keeping over a hundred thousand people fed, watered, and happy." Despite that, however, the guard doesn't seem opposed to the idea of the villagers getting help - he merely seems to think that they should earn that help, and perhaps try to solve their own problems before asking others to do it.

The villagers, on the other hand, are more than happy to seize this opportunity... and the quick outline that the man sketches serves to get the details across. About two weeks before, a large earthquake shook the region. While it didn't cause serious harm to their town (or Katheer, which also felt it), it did crack open an old siege castle that once guarded the northern side of the area. This "Fallen Fortress", as they've taken to calling it, has swallowed up everyone sent inside... and they really want some help figuring out what's going on.

So you have experienced no threat or danger besides the earthquake. The fortress is suddenly accessible and your curiosity and greed got the best of some and they have gone to explore and not return. So what you need saving from is yourselves? Am I to understand this correctly? I will help those in need, but I am no sell sword. So you need us to go and investigate the place and try to return any that may still be alive. I will help as that is what I gave my word to do.

Hadran seems a bit upset that they failed to speak the truth of the matter and that his words lost meaning do to this.

Go ahead. Orithos is rather dumbfounded, and speachless, that villagers would lie to him.

One or two of the villagers probably would have snorted, but they still seem to think that they have bigger problems. "Well, there seem to be things moving around in there, too... and more than a few of them." One of them mutters. They don't seem to really understand much of what might be going on inside the fortress, but it's clear they're very concerned about it. The village itself is only a few hours away, and could probably be reached well before nightfall.

Woops forgot it was on us :)

I understand and we will help you, just please be upfront with us in the future. Now lest head out so you and your people can be put at ease.

In situations like this when someone is talking to a group, and they come to the conclusion to investigate something, I don't have anything to say since my teammates have already said what needs to be said. Any further additions to the conversation would be unneeded. So, Rednal, go ahead and post. I'll post about my character once we get the traveling underway.

It doesn't take long at all to get underway, though most of the people seem like they'll be remaining in the line and continuing to badger the guard for entry to the city. However, the guide (the same man you talked to at the gates) is happy to show you the way, willingly sharing his food and water along the way. As evening begins to fall, you come to the area in question - it appears to be a small farming community, taking advantage of the shade provided by the tall tower rising out of the land to help with its efforts. It's not a huge difference, of course, but even a little good land is valuable in the desert.

The ruined siege castle now being called the Fallen Fortress rises out of the rocks of the desert. No doors or windows mar the smooth expanse of the tower’s walls. The tower is built with four wings on each floor; its eastern wing has largely collapsed, exposing the interior floors to the open air. Only the topmost level seems whole, though its eastern portion hangs precariously over the mountain of rubble left by the collapse. At ground level, the rubble frames a gaping hole in the side of the building that provides access to the tower’s darkened interior.

However, the fortress does seem quiet for now... it's unclear how long investigating it would take, so it might be possible to begin searching through it in the morning. On the other hand, anything inside might have more time to plan, or even strike at the village in the night. It's a bit of a toss-up either way, but your guide seems more than willing to support whatever you choose.

A map is now available up top.